Photovoltaic Connector Markings for Precise Cable Stripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors in photovoltaic systems face challenges in ensuring precise and reproducible stripping of cable conductors, often resulting in incorrect assembly and faulty electrical connections due to cumbersome handling and inability to maintain narrow tolerance ranges without measuring aids.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector with markings on the connector parts to indicate the optimal stripping length, including a stop and grip grooves for improved handling, allows for precise and reproducible stripping within defined tolerance ranges, accommodating varying connector and cable sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If stripping is done by eye without measuring aids, then assembly process is simple and fast, but stripping length precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-marking the connector housing with reference markings and stop markings that indicate the correct stripping length before the actual stripping operation. These markings are integrated into the connector design itself, allowing the user to perform the stripping action with pre-defined guidance, eliminating the need for separate measuring aids while ensuring precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the connector housing itself as an intermediary element that provides visual guidance (markings) between the user and the stripping process. The reference markings and stop markings act as intermediaries that translate the abstract concept of correct stripping length into concrete visual references that the user can follow during assembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If a suitable measuring device is used with knowledge of required stripping length, then stripping length precision improves, but handling becomes cumbersome and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measuring function with the connector housing itself. Instead of using a separate measuring device, the reference markings and stop markings are integrated directly into the housing structure, combining the guidance function with the connector's primary function. This eliminates the need for separate measuring tools and maintains assembly speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing provides self-service by incorporating its own measurement guidance system. The reference markings and stop markings enable the user to determine the correct stripping length directly from the connector itself, without needing external measuring aids or specialized knowledge, thus maintaining productivity while ensuring precision.
3Reliability
If narrow tolerance range is required for stripping length, then connection reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the tolerance range through the positioning of reference markings and stop markings on the connector housing. These markings are placed at specific distances from the cable insertion end, establishing the acceptable stripping length range before the user performs the stripping operation. This preliminary guidance makes it easier for users to comply with narrow tolerance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual differentiation (analogous to color changes) by providing distinct reference markings and stop markings that are visually distinguishable on the connector housing. These markings may differ in position, size, or visual characteristics, making it easy for users to identify the correct stripping length range and comply with the required tolerance, thereby maintaining both reliability and ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical plug-type connector, having two plug parts (1) which are connected to one another and in which in each case one cable is held, with the insulation having been stripped off from the ends of said cable, wherein at least one or more markings are provided on the outer side of at least one plug part (1) at a spacing which corresponds to the length of that portion of the cable from which the insulation has been stripped off.