Separable Superconducting Cable Termination Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing superconducting cable termination structures are complex, require large areas, and have insulating weaknesses due to non-separable sections, necessitating additional connection boxes and full replacement upon insulation failure.

Innovation Solution

A separable termination structure comprising a first tube for the room temperature section, a second tube for the temperature gradient section, and a conductive spacer connecting the tubes, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and the use of different dielectric materials for each section, enabling conversion between air and gas termination connections without additional boxes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a non-separable termination structure is used, then the structure is simple, but the device complexity increases and requires additional connection boxes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidconnection flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The termination structure is divided into separable sections including a room temperature section, a temperature gradient section, and a very low temperature section. Each section can be independently assembled or disassembled, eliminating the need for additional connection boxes while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The termination structure transitions from a fixed non-separable design to a dynamic separable design, allowing the sections to be moved, assembled, and disassembled as needed. This provides connection flexibility while keeping each individual section simple in structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the termination structure is made separable, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection flexibilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the termination structure into standardized modular sections with clear interfaces, the patent achieves adaptability without excessive complexity. Each module maintains simple internal structure while the modular arrangement provides flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The separable termination structure is designed with universal interfaces and standardized connections that can accommodate different connection scenarios (air termination, gas termination, etc.), providing multi-functionality without requiring complex specialized components for each case.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional connection boxes are used, then the adaptability improves, but the area required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection flexibilityVSAvoidinstallation area
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple separate components (termination structure and connection boxes) into a single integrated separable termination structure. This consolidation provides the same adaptability as having separate connection boxes while occupying less installation area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of manufacture

If the termination structure is non-separable, then the manufacturing is simple, but the ease of repair deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidmaintenance accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The termination structure is segmented into separable sections that can be independently accessed for maintenance. This allows repair personnel to access and replace specific components without dismantling the entire structure, improving ease of repair while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

5Reliability

If insulating fluid is used, then the insulating property improves, but the loss of substance increases due to leakage risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulating propertyVSAvoidinsulating fluid leakage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces insulating fluid with nitrogen gas as the insulating medium. Nitrogen gas eliminates leakage risks associated with liquids while providing sufficient insulating properties. The inert atmosphere also prevents moisture and contamination issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The structure is compact, economical, and reduces insulating weaknesses, allowing convenient connection to external devices with improved sealing and reduced need for replacement, enabling efficient and flexible use in various industrial applications.

Implementation Method 1

A vacuum heat-insulating layer 11b is provided between the vacuum container 12 and the refrigerant container 11

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

the liquid nitrogen layer and the nitrogen gas layer are provided adjacent to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat absorption: Heat Sink

Implementation Method 3

a conductor 10a (diameter 40 mm φ which allows electrical conduction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS8912446B2Termination structure for superconducting cable
Publication Date: 2014.12.16 LS CABLE LTD
  • US8912446B2 patent drawing
  • US8912446B2 patent drawing
  • US8912446B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A termination structure for a superconducting cable is described. The termination structure for a superconducting cable includes a first tube including a conductive rod therein to form a room temperature section, a second tube including a conductive rod therein to form a temperature gradient section, and a spacer provided between the first and second tubes, the spacer including a conductive connector configured to connect the conductive rods inside the first and second tubes to each other. The first and second tubes are joined to be separable from each other.