Modular Terminal Isolation Assembly for Lower-Cost Arc Fault Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing demand for arc fault detection modules has led to a pressing need to reduce production costs, as existing solutions require multiple molds for different insulating isolation members and complex assembly processes, increasing manufacturing complexity and costs.

Innovation Solution

An insulating isolation assembly that allows multiple identical insulating isolation members to be connected in an interference fit, using a shared mold and assembly sequence, with optional engagement and plug-together assemblies for secure fixing, enabling efficient and cost-effective production by allowing flexible selection of isolation members and aligning with standard assembly directions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple different insulating isolation members are used to isolate multiple terminals, then the terminals can be properly isolated, but the production cost increases due to requiring multiple molds

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal isolationVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single type of insulating isolation member that can be used for all terminal isolation positions. Instead of creating different isolation members for different terminals, one standardized component performs the isolation function across multiple locations, reducing mold requirements while maintaining reliable electrical isolation between all terminals

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the isolation function into multiple identical modular units. Each insulating isolation member is a self-contained unit that can be independently positioned between terminal groups, allowing the same component design to be replicated throughout the circuit breaker structure without requiring custom designs for each position

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple different insulating isolation members are used, then specific isolation requirements can be met, but the assembly process becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveisolation performanceVSAvoidassembly process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized insulating isolation member design allows the same component to fulfill isolation requirements across different terminal configurations. The universal design simplifies the assembly process by eliminating the need for workers to differentiate between various isolation member types, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining adequate isolation performance

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs homogeneity by making all insulating isolation members identical in structure and properties. This uniformity across all isolation components simplifies the assembly process, as each component can be installed using the same method and procedure, reducing training requirements and minimizing assembly errors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple molds are used for different insulating isolation members, then specific terminal configurations can be accommodated, but production efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal configurationVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The single standardized insulating isolation member design provides adaptability to various terminal configurations without requiring different mold types. The universal component can be positioned and oriented to meet different isolation requirements, maintaining versatility while dramatically improving production efficiency through simplified manufacturing

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

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

This approach reduces production costs by allowing the use of a single mold for multiple isolation members, enhances assembly efficiency by maintaining the same assembly sequence as other module components, and ensures secure fixing through multiple points, thereby lowering overall production expenses.

Implementation Method 1

the fourth plug-together component (109) capable of forming an interference fit with a third plug-together component (108) of another insulating isolation member (100)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInterference fit: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3407373B1Insulating isolation member for arc fault detection module, and arc fault detection module
Publication Date: 2023.11.29 SIEMENS AG
  • EP3407373B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3407373B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3407373B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to an insulating isolation member for an arc fault detection module, and an arc fault detection module. The insulating isolation member comprises: a body having four sides, comprising a first side and a second side opposite each other and a third side and a fourth side opposite each other; a first terminal accommodating slot, located on the first side; a second terminal accommodating slot, located on the second side, the second terminal accommodating slot being capable of cooperating with a first terminal accommodating slot of another insulating isolation member to form a terminal accommodating cavity for accommodating a terminal; a first plug-together component, located on the first side; and a second plug-together component, located on the second side, the second plug-together component being capable of forming an interference fit with a first plug-together component of the other insulating isolation member. Based on the present invention, the production cost of an arc fault detection module can be reduced.