Modular Plug Body for Tank Current Connection Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connection devices for tanks storing or transporting combustible hazardous materials face challenges such as mechanical damage, incorrect phase connections, and time-consuming assembly procedures, which can lead to fatal consequences due to the need for precise handling by personnel with undefined qualifications.
Innovation Solution
A current connection apparatus featuring a flange-mounted electrical lead with insulated conductors and a protective casing, where plug bodies with corresponding elements ensure secure and error-free connections by eliminating the need for cable lugs, and incorporating modular subassemblies for simplified assembly and enhanced safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable lugs are used to connect cables to conductors, then electrical connection can be established, but mechanical damage and incorrect phase connections may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connection apparatus is divided into separate modular components: a plug body with plug elements on one side and corresponding receptacles on the other. This segmentation allows each component to be prepared independently and connected through a simple insertion motion, eliminating the need for complex cable lug assembly while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug body acts as an intermediary component between the connection cables and the electrical lead. The plug elements and receptacles provide a standardized interface that guides the connection process, preventing incorrect phase connections and mechanical damage through proper alignment and constrained movement.
2Productivity
If traditional cable connection methods are used, then electrical connection is achieved, but the assembly procedure becomes very time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The plug elements and receptacles are pre-configured in their respective components before assembly. The plug body is prepared with plug elements positioned to match the receptacles, and the electrical lead is prepared with corresponding receptacles. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for time-consuming alignment and connection adjustments during assembly, while ensuring connection accuracy through pre-established geometric correspondence.
3Ease of operation
If personnel with undefined qualifications perform assembly, then installation can proceed, but mechanical damage or errors may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The connection apparatus is designed to guide the assembly process through its own structure. The plug elements and receptacles are shaped to fit together in only one correct orientation, and the insertion motion is self-guiding. This allows personnel with basic qualifications to perform the assembly correctly without extensive training, while the design itself prevents errors and mechanical damage through constrained movement and proper alignment.
Data Source
AI summary
A current connection apparatus for a pressure tank is provided. The current connection apparatus includes a tank flange mounted on a tank and an opening that leads into the tank. Electrical connection cables are installed in this opening for connecting with an external electrical apparatus. An electrical lead having one or more conductors, which are electrically insulated relative to a metal flange, and a protective casing. The electrical lead is disposed between the tank flange and the protective casing and is tightly fastened to the tank flange. A plug body, which has plug elements corresponding to conductors of electrical lead, is inserted into the tank opening in the tank flange. The protective casing also has a plug body inserted therein, where the plug body has plug elements.