Offset Waterproof Connector Layout for Dense Cable Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conductor arrangements face limitations in connecting multiple electrical lines to a single electrical source due to spatial constraints, risking shorts and installation difficulties in applications like underground transformers.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof connector design featuring offset tower arrangements and a bridge structure that allows for increased conductor connection density, providing safer and more efficient installation and operation by optimizing spatial utilization and reducing stress on electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional back to back or linear conductor arrangements are used, then the electrical connection structure is simple, but the number of electrical lines that can be connected is limited by spatial dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional linear or back-to-back arrangements to a three-dimensional tower structure with multiple levels. The conductor arrangement includes a first conductor connected to a first tower, a second conductor connected to a second tower, and a third conductor connected to a third tower positioned at a different vertical level, thereby utilizing vertical space to increase connection capacity without expanding horizontal footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where multiple conductors and towers are arranged within a compact vertical envelope. The first, second, and third conductors are nested within the same horizontal projection area, with towers positioned at different heights, allowing maximum utilization of limited spatial dimensions while maintaining electrical isolation between conductors.
2Quantity of substance
If more electrical lines are connected in limited space, then connection density increases, but the risk of short circuits increases due to proximity to other structures
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging conductors at different vertical levels on separate towers, the patent creates physical separation in the vertical dimension while maintaining compact horizontal footprint. This vertical stratification reduces the risk of short circuits by increasing the distance between conductors that would otherwise be in close proximity in a linear arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric tower positioning where the first, second, and third towers are arranged with different horizontal and vertical coordinates. The first tower is positioned at a first location, the second tower at a second location, and the third tower at a third location, creating an asymmetric configuration that optimizes spacing between conductors to prevent short circuits while maximizing connection density.
3Quantity of substance
If more electrical lines are connected in limited space, then connection density increases, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conductor connection system into separate modular towers, with each tower handling specific conductors. The first tower connects the first conductor, the second tower connects the second conductor, and the third tower connects the third conductor. This segmentation allows independent installation and adjustment of each tower-conductor pair, simplifying the overall installation process despite the increased number of connections.
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing vertical spacing to position towers at different heights, the patent creates clear access pathways for installation personnel. The vertical arrangement allows workers to access each tower and conductor connection point without obstruction from other conductors, maintaining installation ease even with multiple electrical lines connected in a compact horizontal footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
A waterproof connector device includes a backplate; a plurality of towers; and a bridge. The plurality of towers are sealingly coupled to the backplate and each tower is configured to sealingly receive a respective electrical coupling at an electrical coupling point, the plurality of towers including a first plurality of towers forming a first arrangement and a second plurality of towers forming a second arrangement, the first arrangement being offset with respect to the second arrangement. The bridge is electrically coupled to the plurality of towers for conveying current of one or more towers of the plurality of towers.