Multi-pole Coupling Member for Circuit Breaker Housing Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-pole electrical switching apparatus, such as circuit breakers, require numerous coupling members to assemble housing components, increasing manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A housing assembly design that uses a single multi-pole coupling member to connect multiple housing members, eliminating the need for multiple one-pole coupling members by employing interlocking latching portions and a novel trip cam assembly with an interconnect member that extends through the housing members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple one-pole coupling members are used to connect housing members, then reliable mechanical connection is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate coupling members into a single multi-pole coupling member that connects all housing members simultaneously. This merging reduces the total number of coupling members from multiple one-pole members to one unified component, lowering manufacturing cost while maintaining connection reliability through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-pole coupling member is designed to perform multiple connection functions across different poles simultaneously. This universal component replaces several specialized one-pole coupling members, achieving the same mechanical connection reliability with reduced part count and lower overall manufacturing cost
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple coupling members are used to assemble housing components, then structural stability is ensured, but assembly process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple coupling operations into a single multi-pole coupling member installation, the assembly process is simplified. The housing members are connected through one integrated component rather than requiring sequential assembly of multiple separate coupling members, reducing assembly complexity while ensuring structural stability
3Strength
If numerous coupling members are employed, then secure connection of housing members is achieved, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of numerous coupling members into a single multi-pole coupling member. This consolidated component maintains the necessary connection strength across all housing members while reducing the total number of parts from multiple individual coupling members to one unified component
Data Source
AI summary
A trip cam assembly is for a multi-pole electrical switching apparatus. The trip cam assembly includes a first trip cam, a second trip cam, and an interconnect member coupled to the first trip cam and the second trip cam.