Multi-Pin Hazardous Location Connector with Segmented Power Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors are limited in their ability to accommodate devices with varying power requirements in hazardous locations, requiring separate connectors for each device, which complicates installation and maintenance and may not comply with safety standards for explosion-proof environments.
Innovation Solution
A multi-pin electrical connector system with distinct subsets of coupling features that can deliver different power signals, allowing a single connector to power multiple devices with unique power requirements, while maintaining compliance with hazardous location standards through explosion-proof enclosures and flame paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate electrical connectors are used for each device with different power requirements, then each device can be powered appropriately, but the system complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is designed with multiple independent power signal paths, allowing a single connector to provide multiple different power signals (e.g., 12V, 24V, 48V) to different devices simultaneously. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connectors for each power requirement while maintaining adaptability to various devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector's electrical coupling features are divided into distinct subsets, where each subset is dedicated to providing a specific power signal. This segmentation allows independent configuration of power signals within the single connector, enabling versatile power distribution without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connectors are installed for different devices, then each device receives appropriate power, but installation and maintenance time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrical connectors that would traditionally be used separately for different power requirements are merged into a single integrated connector. This combination allows all devices with different power needs to be connected through one connector, significantly reducing installation time and simplifying maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector is designed to universally support multiple devices with different power requirements through its multiple subsets of electrical coupling features, eliminating the need for multiple separate installation operations and reducing overall installation and maintenance time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate connectors are used for each power requirement, then power delivery is precise, but material usage and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate connectors are merged into a single connector body that houses all necessary electrical coupling features for different power signals. This consolidation reduces the total quantity of connector materials required while maintaining the ability to deliver precise power signals through internally segmented electrical paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector is designed to perform multiple power delivery functions simultaneously, reducing the total material quantity needed compared to using separate connectors for each power requirement. The connector maintains power signal specificity through its segmented electrical coupling feature subsets.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a first connector end and an electrical device having a second connector end. The first connector end has a number of electrical coupling features, where the electrical coupling features have a first subset of electrical coupling features and a second subset of electrical coupling features. The first electrical device has a second connector end detachably coupled to the first connector end, where the second connector end has a number of complementary electrical coupling features coupled to the electrical coupling features of the first connector end. The first subset of electrical coupling features can provide a first power signal to a first subset of complementary electrical coupling features of the second connector end.