Well Controller Terminal Cover for Stray Wire Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well management systems lack robust management, control, and protection of well systems, requiring physical inspection for status and adjustments, and are vulnerable to electrical shocks and damage from stray wires during installation or servicing of high voltage terminal blocks.
Innovation Solution
A controller with integrated communication capabilities that manages well systems via a network, including an electrical cover for terminal blocks made of flexible insulating material to prevent stray wires from entering the connection space and retain desired wiring, while a pass-through ground wire reduces the risk of electrical shocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a terminal block is used for high voltage power connection, then electrical connection capability is improved, but risk of electrical shock and damage from stray wires increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block is segmented into multiple functional zones: a connection space for electrical connections and a recessed area for strain relief. This segmentation allows the terminal block to simultaneously provide electrical connection capability while isolating the connection space from stray wires through the recessed boundary.
Solution Approach 2:
A wire retention element acts as an intermediary component between the wiring and the terminal block. This element is received within the recessed area and provides strain relief, preventing stray wires from reaching the high voltage connection space while maintaining electrical connection integrity.
2Ease of operation
If physical inspection is required for well system status and adjustments, then system control capability is improved, but operational efficiency and safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The controller includes a communication interface that enables remote monitoring and control of well systems. Sensors provide feedback about system status (such as water level, pump operation) to the controller, which can then adjust operations remotely, eliminating the need for frequent physical inspections and improving operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual physical inspection and adjustment mechanisms with an automated electronic control system. The controller communicates with well system components electronically, substituting mechanical field operations with automated electronic monitoring and control, thereby improving productivity while maintaining control capability.
3Reliability
If high voltage wiring is fastened to metal area, then electrical connection is improved, but vulnerability to stray wire damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block incorporates a recessed area with specific local properties designed for strain relief and wire retention. This localized structural feature provides enhanced protection against stray wire damage precisely where wiring enters the terminal block, while the metal connection area maintains its electrical conductivity for reliable electrical connection.
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 controller provides remote monitoring and control of well systems, preventing electrical shocks and damage by securing wiring and allowing for efficient operation and maintenance, while the electrical cover protects against stray wires and enhances system safety.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical cover retains desired wiring in a connection space of the terminal block while also guarding against other stray wiring from entering the connection space
Implementation Method 2
The receptacle portions of the cover tightly grip the projections by frictional engagement and serve to retain the cover on the terminal block
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrical cover for a terminal block of a device is provided that protects the terminal block from risks associated with stray wires. The electrical cover retains desired wiring in a connection space of the terminal block while also guarding against other stray wiring from entering the connection space.