Modular Power Bus Assembly for Flexible Wall-Mounted Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing current distribution systems are costly and inflexible, requiring numerous cables for star installations and pre-defined power buses that are difficult to adapt and install.

Innovation Solution

A current distribution system comprising a chute with fixing notches, flexible bars with conductive souls and insulating sheaths, and a derivation case with maintenance devices and sealing devices, allowing for easy adaptation to different wall geometries and simple installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If power buses with predefined lengths are used, then installation is simplified, but adaptability to different wall geometries deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to wall geometries
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power bus is divided into multiple modular sections that can be assembled in different configurations. Each section contains standardized connection points and can be joined to form custom-length power buses adapted to various wall geometries, combining installation simplicity with geometric flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The power bus system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow modification of length and routing after installation. This dynamic adaptability enables the same modular components to serve different wall geometries without requiring complete reinstallation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If numerous cables are used for star-shaped installation, then power distribution to multiple loads is achieved, but installation cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution capabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple individual cable connections are merged into a single modular power bus that distributes power to multiple loads simultaneously. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate installation tasks and material handling operations, lowering installation costs while maintaining full power distribution capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The modular power bus serves multiple functions: it distributes power to multiple loads, provides structural support, and offers flexible routing options. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cable management systems and reduces overall installation complexity and cost

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

3Ease of manufacture

If power buses are mounted on building walls, then power distribution is simplified, but difficulty of installation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution simplicityVSAvoidinstallation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The power bus is segmented into lightweight modular sections that can be easily mounted on walls using standardized fixtures. This segmentation reduces installation difficulty by allowing workers to handle and position smaller, more manageable components rather than a single large rigid structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Standardized mounting fixtures and connection interfaces serve as intermediaries between the power bus modules and the wall surface. These intermediary elements simplify the installation process by providing pre-engineered attachment mechanisms that require minimal specialized tools or skills

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system is adaptable to various wall geometries, easy to install and maintain, and allows for flexible modification of the number of bars and derivation boxes, reducing installation costs and improving flexibility.

Implementation Method 1

a counter-support, bearing against the support in a thickness direction, the counter-support elastically deforming the first lock and the second lock in order to hold the first lock and the second lock in cooperation respectively with the notch for fixing the first edge and the notch for fixing the second edge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4542800A1Power distribution system and power supply assembly comprising such a distribution system
Publication Date: 2025.04.23 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS
  • EP4542800A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4542800A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4542800A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a current distribution system (10) comprising a cable tray (11) having a first edge (14) and a second edge (15), each having locking notches (19), several bars (25), and a junction box (40). The retaining device (30) comprises a support (32) having a first and a second locking mechanism (38, 39), which cooperate respectively with a locking notch of the first edge and a locking notch of the second edge (15), and a counter-support (34) elastically deforming the first locking mechanism (38) and the second locking mechanism, and a cover (47) covering the cable tray, the bars, and the retaining device. The junction box (40) comprises a base (42) with first teeth (48) and second teeth (49), fixed to the cable tray by the cooperation of the shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge.