Circulation Pump Terminal Box Recess for Compact Secure Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circulation pumps face challenges in achieving a compact overall size and ensuring secure, easy connection/disconnection of connecting elements, particularly due to spatial constraints and increased risk of moving counterparts during operation.
Innovation Solution
The circulation pump design incorporates a terminal box with a recess that houses connecting elements, allowing them to be positioned inside the pump, reducing external dimensions and minimizing the risk of counterpart movement during operation, with ergonomic access and mechanical support for secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connecting elements are formed on the outside of the terminal box, then accessibility is improved, but the external size of the pump increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is nested inside a recess of the terminal box, allowing the counterpart to be connected while remaining partially enclosed. This nesting approach provides accessibility through the recess opening while maintaining a compact external profile, as the connecting element does not protrude from the pump's outer dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing the connecting element on the external surface, the invention utilizes the internal three-dimensional space of the terminal box by creating a recess. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the connecting element to be accessible yet contained within the pump's footprint, effectively using internal volume rather than external expansion.
2Volume of moving object
If connecting elements are positioned on a lateral surface, then overall pump size is reduced, but the risk of moving the counterpart during operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recess structure nests the connecting element and its counterpart, providing mechanical support and constraint that prevents movement during operation. The recess walls and opening configuration create a stable, secure fit that maintains connection reliability while keeping the pump compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess provides localized structural features (walls, opening, positioning geometry) that enhance the stability of the connecting element at its specific location. This local structural enhancement ensures secure connection without requiring the entire pump structure to be larger or more complex.
3Reliability
If connecting elements are placed inside a recess, then mechanical stability is improved, but accessibility for connection may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal box is segmented to include a recess with an opening that separates the internal stable environment from the external access requirement. This segmentation allows the connecting element to experience mechanical stability within the recess while remaining accessible through the opening for connection and disconnection operations.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a circulation pump (1) comprising -- a pump housing (10) with an impeller therein, the impeller being rotatable around a rotation axis (R) of the pump (1), -- a motor housing (20) with an electrical motor therein, the electrical motor being coaxially connected to and driving the impeller, -- a terminal box (30) with electrical and/or electronical components therein for controlling the electrical motor, and with a connecting element (321) to establish an electrical connection of the terminal box (30).