Superconducting Tape Connector Reducing Stack Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Superconducting fault current limiter (SCFCL) systems require a large number of connectors and minimal spacing between them to prevent interference, leading to a significant space and volume constraint due to the need for multiple conductive tapes in parallel, which affects the system's efficiency and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A novel connector system that allows two superconducting tapes to be installed in a single opening, reducing the height of the connector stack by nearly 50% by using recessed portions on the connectors to form larger openings, enabling a paired configuration of tapes within a protective sleeve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple connectors are stacked with minimal spacing to hold multiple superconducting tapes, then the current transmission capacity is improved, but the overall system volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple superconducting tapes into a single integrated connector unit. Instead of stacking separate connectors for each tape, the invention merges the function of multiple connectors into one unified structure that can accommodate and electrically connect multiple tapes simultaneously, thereby reducing the overall number of connectors and system volume while maintaining current transmission capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where superconducting tapes are arranged in a layered, space-efficient manner within the connector structure. The tapes are positioned in nested rows with optimized spacing, allowing maximum utilization of available space within the connector volume, thereby increasing current capacity without proportionally increasing system volume
2Length of stationary object
If minimal spacing is maintained between connectors to prevent interference, then the connector stack height is reduced, but mechanical and electrical interference between tapes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different spacing requirements to different regions of the connector structure. Critical areas where tapes are in close proximity incorporate additional insulation barriers and thermal management features, while non-critical areas maintain minimal spacing. This localized differentiation allows the system to achieve compact overall dimensions while preventing interference in sensitive regions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as insulation barriers, cooling channels, and structural support features between adjacent superconducting tapes. These intermediary components act as mediators that prevent direct mechanical contact and electrical interference between tapes while maintaining compact spacing, thereby reducing connector stack height without compromising reliability
3Power
If a larger number of connectors is used to accommodate multiple superconducting tapes, then the current carrying capacity is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal connector structure that can accommodate multiple superconducting tapes of different configurations and current ratings. This multi-functional connector serves the role of multiple individual connectors, providing electrical connection, mechanical support, thermal management, and insulation functions for several tapes simultaneously, thereby increasing current capacity while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate connectors into a single integrated connector unit. This unified structure consolidates electrical connections, mechanical mounting features, cooling channels, and insulation elements that would otherwise require multiple discrete connectors, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining the required current carrying capacity
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
This configuration reduces the number of connectors needed, minimizing the overall size of the SCFCL system, allowing for higher voltage/current operations within a given volume and enhancing the system's efficiency and reliability by reducing mechanical and electrical interference.
Implementation Method 1
a superconducting circuit that exhibits almost zero resistivity below a critical temperature level TC, a critical magnetic field level HC, and a critical current level IC
Implementation Method 2
If at least one of these critical level conditions is exceeded, the circuit quenches and exhibits resistivity
Implementation Method 3
Conductive tapes may expand due to changes in temperature
Implementation Method 4
vibrate due to magnetic fields generated by current flowing through the conductive tapes
Data Source
AI summary
A system for connecting superconducting tapes in a superconducting fault current limiter (SCFCL) system is disclosed. The novel connector system allows two superconducting tapes to be installed in a single opening in a connector stack. This reduced the height of the connector stack by nearly 50%, making the SCFCL system more efficient and smaller in volume. In one embodiment, each connector has a recessed portion on both the top and bottom surfaces, such that when stacked on another connector, the recessed portions align, forming a larger opening. In another embodiment, the connector has a single recessed portion that can accommodate two superconducting tapes. The superconducting tapes may be disposed in a protective sleeve.