Offset Keeper Holder Transformer Connector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical connectors for transformer studs face challenges in installation within confined spaces due to limited available space, and they often do not accommodate transformer stud connections efficiently.

Innovation Solution

An electrical connector with offset keeper holders and a monolithic electrically conductive body, featuring a transformer stud receiving passageway and keeper holders, allows for secure fastening of electrical conductors in a confined space, enabling easier installation by providing space for tool manipulation and accommodating different transformer stud sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional electrical connector design is used, then the connector can secure electrical conductors to transformer studs, but the available space between adjacent transformer conductors is limited making installation difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidavailable space
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector body transitions from a conventional planar layout to a three-dimensional configuration with offset keeper holders that extend outward from the main body. This dimensional change allows the keeper holders to be positioned in space rather than constrained to a flat surface, enabling installation in confined areas between adjacent transformer conductors while maintaining adequate space for tool manipulation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If the keeper holders are positioned closely to accommodate limited space, then the connector fits in confined areas, but there is insufficient space for installer to manipulate tools necessary to secure fasteners

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidtool manipulation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is segmented into distinct functional zones: the main body containing the transformer stud receiving passageway, and offset keeper holders that extend outward to provide cable management functions. This segmentation allows each component to be optimally positioned for its specific function, with keeper holders offset from the main body to provide both compact overall dimensions and adequate working space for fastener installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the connector accommodates transformer stud connections, then it can connect electrical conductors to transformer studs, but it does not efficiently utilize the confined space available

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransformer stud accommodationVSAvoidspace efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector body is designed with a transformer stud receiving passageway that accommodates transformer stud connections, while simultaneously incorporating offset keeper holders for electrical conductor securing. This multi-functional design allows a single component to perform both the transformer stud connection function and the electrical conductor securing function, efficiently utilizing the confined space available in transformer installations

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

Data Source

PatentUS7311564B2Transformer stud connector with offset keeper holders and associated methods
Publication Date: 2007.12.25 THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US7311564B2 patent drawing
  • US7311564B2 patent drawing
  • US7311564B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical connector for connecting a plurality of electrical conductors to a transformer stud. The electrical connector may include an electrically conductive body having a first and second generally rectangular portions connected in an offset arrangement. The first generally rectangular portion may have a transformer stud receiving passageway for receiving a transformer stud. The first and second generally rectangular portions may have respective first and second openings to define first and second keeper holders. Keepers are removably received in the keeper holders to secure electrical conductors therein.