Modular Power Distribution Assembly for Scalable Serviceable Layouts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional power distribution systems are not optimized for minimal size and are often larger than necessary, with unused components and non-serviceable electronic components, and they restrict module interlinking, requiring disassembly for maintenance and limiting scalability.

Innovation Solution

A modular power distribution assembly with scalable primary and secondary power modules, a common communication backplane, and bus bars that allow selective removal of modules without disrupting power or signal connections, enabling flexible configuration and reduced component count.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of stationary object

If traditional power distribution systems are used, then power distribution functionality is provided, but the system size is larger than necessary and includes unused components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem sizeVSAvoidconfiguration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power distribution system is divided into modular units that can be independently configured. Each module contains specific power distribution components that can be selectively assembled based on required functionality, eliminating the need for complete systems with unused components and reducing overall system volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular components are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection mechanisms that allow the same basic modules to serve multiple configuration purposes. This enables a reduced set of modules to provide various power distribution configurations through different assembly arrangements.

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

2Ease of repair

If traditional power distribution systems are used, then power distribution is provided, but maintenance requires disassembly and components are non-serviceable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance accessibilityVSAvoidassembly integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into discrete, serviceable modules that can be independently accessed and maintained. Electronic components are mounted on removable circuit boards within modular enclosures, allowing technicians to access and replace components without disassembling the entire system, thus improving maintenance accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional power distribution systems are used, then power distribution functionality is provided, but module interlinking is restricted and scalability is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovescalabilityVSAvoidinterlinking constraints
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Standardized universal interfaces and connection mechanisms are implemented across all modules, enabling any module to be interconnected with any other module of the same type. This universal compatibility removes interlinking restrictions and allows the system to be scaled by simply adding or removing modules according to power distribution requirements.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11973325B2Modular power distribution assembly and method of assembly thereof
Publication Date: 2024.04.30 GE AVIATION SYST LTD
  • US11973325B2 patent drawing
  • US11973325B2 patent drawing
  • US11973325B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular power distribution apparatus and method includes a frame defined by a first set of parallel supports and a second set of parallel supports, the second set of parallel supports connecting the first set of parallel supports, the frame defining a generally planar assembly, as well as a set of components extending from a side of the frame. The set of components includes a set of power modules.