Multiple Fuse Device Segmentation for Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing multiple fuse devices for automobiles require frequent changes in die shapes and sizes due to varying load ratings, leading to increased manufacturing costs and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A multiple fuse device design featuring a bus bar with integral external terminals and removable fuses, where the fusible portions are integrated with the bus bar and separate fuses, allowing for easy adaptation to different ratings without changing the die, thus reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the fusible portion is integrated with the bus bar using integral molding, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the device cannot accommodate various ratings without changing the die
Solution Approach 1:
The fusible portion is separated from the bus bar into an independent removable fuse component. The bus bar retains only the circuit portion and external terminals, while the fusible portion becomes a separate fuse that can be independently selected and replaced based on different rating requirements, thus resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bus bar is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of fuses with different ratings. The circuit portion and external terminals form a standardized base that works with various fuse specifications, enabling one bus bar design to serve multiple applications without requiring different dies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the die is changed to accommodate various ratings, then the device can be adapted to different load requirements, but the manufacturing cost increases greatly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the fusible portion into a separate removable fuse, the need to create different dies for different ratings is eliminated. Only one die is needed for the bus bar, while the fuses themselves can be manufactured separately with appropriate ratings, significantly reducing die-related manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of changing the physical structure or shape of the bus bar die to accommodate different ratings, the invention allows parameter changes (ratings) to be achieved by selecting different fuse components while keeping the bus bar die unchanged. This separates the structural design from the electrical parameter specification.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fusible portion shape is changed to match different ratings, then the device can accommodate various load requirements, but the die must be frequently changed
Solution Approach 1:
The fusible portion is segmented into a separate fuse component that can vary in shape and specifications without affecting the bus bar structure. This allows different fuse shapes for different ratings while maintaining a constant bus bar die design, eliminating the need to frequently change dies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static integrated structure to a dynamic configurable system where the fuse component can be easily swapped to match different rating requirements. This dynamic approach allows adaptability without requiring changes to the permanent bus bar die.
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 configuration enables the multiple fuse device to accommodate various load ratings without altering the die, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying the mounting process while ensuring effective protection against overcurrents.
Implementation Method 1
a fusible portion thereof is cut by heat generated due to the overcurrent
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a multiple fuse device that is compatible with various ratings and reduces an increase in manufacturing cost. A multiple fuse device includes an input terminal, an external terminal, a bus bar that includes a circuit portion disposed between the input terminal and the external terminal, and a housing that covers the bus bar. The external terminal includes an integral external terminal integrated with the circuit portion with a fusible portion interposed between the integral external terminal and the circuit portion, and a fuse-side external terminal that pairs up with a fuse connection terminal connected to the circuit portion. The fuse connection terminal and the fuse-side external terminal provided in a pair hold a fuse exteriorly in a removable manner, the fuse having a fusible portion connected between the fuse connection terminal and the fuse-side external terminal.