Modular Power Distribution Block for Mixed Amperage Routing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power distribution blocks are limited by specific amperage ratings, making them unsuitable for higher amperage applications and requiring multiple blocks for different amperage ratings, which can lead to safety hazards and equipment damage.

Innovation Solution

A customizable power distribution block featuring a conductive plate with drilled holes of varying sizes to mount connectors or conductive blocks in different configurations, allowing for distribution of electrical power from higher amperage to multiple smaller amperage applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If standard pre-fabricated power distribution blocks are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because they cannot be customized for different amperage ratings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power distribution block is divided into modular components: a base block with conductive elements and removable connector assemblies. Each connector can be independently attached or removed, allowing the system to be segmented and reconfigured for different amperage ratings without manufacturing entirely new blocks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assemblies are designed to be dynamically attachable and detachable from the base block through recesses and engagement features. This dynamic configuration allows the same base block to adapt to different amperage requirements by simply changing the connector arrangement, transforming a static product into a dynamically reconfigurable system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power distribution blocks with different amperage ratings are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A single base block design serves multiple amperage ratings (50amp, 70amp, 100amp, 125amp, 150amp, 200amp, 225amp, 250amp) by accepting different connector assemblies. This universal base block eliminates the need for multiple specialized blocks, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining adaptability across different electrical applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If existing power distribution blocks are used for higher amperage applications, then device simplicity is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to safety hazards and equipment damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidreliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Different connector assemblies with specific current-carrying capacities are matched to specific amperage requirements. Each connector is designed with local quality appropriate for its rating (e.g., larger conductive elements for higher amperage), ensuring that the electrical characteristics are optimized for the specific application while maintaining overall system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12272910B1Power distribution block
Publication Date: 2025.04.08 MCCARTY JUSTIN
  • US12272910B1 patent drawing
  • US12272910B1 patent drawing
  • US12272910B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A power distribution block for distributing electrical power is disclosed. The power distribution block includes a plate made of a conductive material. The plate is configured to operate at 1200 amperage and 600 volts. The plate includes holes of various sizes arranged in series. The holes are configured to mount connectors or conductive blocks to the plate in different configurations depending on the need for distribution of the electrical power. Each connector is rated for specific current-carrying capacity. Further, each connector includes at least one input terminal and multiple output terminals, enabling the distribution of electrical power to different loads while maintaining secure and low-resistance connections. The power distribution block includes a cover configured to be placed over the plate to protect the plate and the connectors from environmental factors, physical damage and accidental contact. The power distribution block presents a high-capacity terminal block adaptable to various electrical applications.