Power Conversion Apparatus Clamp Fixing Cylindrical Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power conversion apparatuses face challenges in stably fixing cylindrical pipes due to local crushing and uneven pressure application, which can lead to detachment of the cooler from the frame.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion apparatus design featuring clamps with a fastener and pressing portions aligned along the cylindrical pipe, supported by a concave support portion at three equilateral triangle-shaped points, preventing deformation and ensuring constant pressure application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an arched pressing portion is used to contact the cylindrical pipe, then the clamp can conform to the pipe shape, but the pressure cannot be linearly applied and may cause the pipe to detach
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the pressing portion arched to match the pipe, the patent inverts the approach by making the support portion in the frame arched and the pressing portion flat. This allows the flat pressing portion to apply linear pressure perpendicular to the pipe surface, while the arched support portion provides proper geometric support, resolving the contradiction between conformability and stable fixation.
2Ease of operation
If a clamp with arched pressing portion is used, then it can hold the cylindrical pipe, but the inner projecting portion may dig into the pipe and cause local crushing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional design by placing the arched geometry in the support portion rather than the pressing portion. The flat pressing portion eliminates the inner projecting portion that causes digging and crushing, while the arched support portion maintains proper geometric alignment. This inversion resolves the contradiction between holding capability and prevention of local crushing.
3Ease of operation
If pressure is applied diagonally to the frame, then the clamp can hold the pipe, but the pipe may detach from the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the pressure application approach by making the pressing portion flat rather than arched. This allows pressure to be applied linearly and perpendicularly to the pipe surface, ensuring force is transmitted directly to the frame without diagonal components that could cause detachment. The arched support portion complements this by providing proper geometric support, resolving the contradiction between holding function and steady fixation.
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion apparatus is provided which includes a semiconductor module which include a switching element, a cooler which cools the semiconductor module, and has a pair of cylindrical pipes which introduce a cooling medium to a channel therein or discharge the cooling medium, a frame which holds the cooler, and a pair of clamps which fix the cylindrical pipes to the frame. Each of the clamps has a fastener portion which is fastened to the frame, and a pressing portion which presses the cylindrical pipe toward the frame. Each of the cylindrical pipes is held between a concave support portion, which is formed in the frame, and the clamp. Each of the cylindrical pipes is supported by two support surfaces of the concave support portion and the pressing portion of the clamp at three support points when viewing from the direction in which the cylindrical pipe extends.