Stair-Step Terminal Block Assembly for High-Voltage Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks are unsuitable for medium to high voltage connections due to inadequate electrical creepage and clearance distances, leading to potential electrical arcs and breakdowns.
Innovation Solution
A compact terminal block design with a stair step pattern that positions bare connection points on separate surfaces, increasing creepage and clearance distances, and using removable partition barriers to further insulate terminal blocks, thereby reducing the risk of electrical arcs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional terminal blocks are used with stripped wire ends, then ease of connection is improved, but electrical creepage and clearance distances become inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by positioning connection points on different surfaces of the insulating block rather than on the same plane. The insulating block features a first surface and a second surface separated by a third surface, creating a three-dimensional spatial arrangement that increases creepage and clearance distances while maintaining ease of connection.
2Reliability
If sufficient creepage and clearance distances are provided, then voltage tolerance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the insulating block structure with the terminal block assembly by integrating multiple surfaces (first surface, second surface, and third surface) into a single insulating component. This unified structure provides sufficient creepage and clearance distances while avoiding the need for separate insulating elements, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple terminal blocks are used in close proximity, then space utilization is improved, but risk of electrical arcs between blocks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces removable partition barriers as intermediary elements disposed between adjacent terminal blocks within the chassis. These partition barriers provide additional electrical insulation and prevent arcing between closely spaced terminal blocks, while allowing flexible configuration and maintaining efficient space utilization.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 1E~1F
AI summary
Systems and method are described for a terminal block that can include an insulating block that is composed of an electrically insulating material. The insulating structure can have a first via extending between a first and second opening in the insulating block. A second via can extend between a third and fourth opening in the insulating block. A distance between the first and second openings may be less than a distance between the third and fourth openings. A first electrical conducting element can extend between the first and second openings. A second electrical conducting element can extend between the third and fourth openings. The first and second electrical conducting elements can be separated from one another by a portion of the insulating block.