[0001] The present embodiments relate to an electrical connector system and, more particularly,
to an electrical connector system for attaching a transmission line to an electrical
component.
[0002] Electrical connector systems generally use a cable lug to connect a transmission
line to a contact element such as the terminal block of a battery. The cable lug is
often tightened around the contact element with a nut and a threaded bolt to create
a frictionally locking contact between the cable lug and the contact element. In order
to maintain a predefined electrical resistance between the contact element and the
transmission line via the cable lug during the entire service life, high contact pressure
between the cable lug and the contact element is often required, which in turn generally
implies high tightening torques for the nut.
[0003] Usually, a lubricant is used for screwing the nut to the threaded bolt. In case of
not using a lubricant in connector systems when the nut is tightened together with
friction and adhesion forces on contact surfaces, a "galling of the thread" may occur.
[0004] Conventionally, in mass production (e.g., within the scope of a motor vehicle or
aircraft), the fastening devices (e.g., a threaded bolt and a nut) are coated with
a lubricant. In particular, all locations on the fastening device are coated with
the lubricant.
[0005] Although the lubricant promotes the fastening suitability at high tightening torques
for ensuring a secure mechanical connection, it has poor electrical conductivity.
Additionally, because of its sliding characteristics during service life of the contact
element, the lubricant increases friction corrosion at the contact surfaces with respect
to the contact element.
[0006] Document
US 9,735,478 B2 describes a cable lug or functional part in combination with a nut. The cable lug
or functional part has a tubular receiving portion for a cable, an integrally formed
flat part connecting portion connected to the tubular receiving portion, the flat
part connecting portion having a hole therethrough defined by a wall said hole having
a central axis. The nut includes a body having an undercut. The nut is held captively
and rotatably on the flat part connecting portion. The nut does not pass through the
flat part connecting portion that is held by a reshaped holding material portion of
the flat part connecting portion which projects into the undercut. The reshaped holding
material portion is accommodated in the undercut, and an axial clearance is provided
between the reshaped holding material and the wall which defines the hole.
[0007] Document
BE 763,154 A describes a battery terminal which can quickly and easily be secured to a battery
post without the aid of tooling and which is resistant to battery acids relative to
prior art battery terminals. This is provided by the use of a threaded connector element
which is inwardly compressible by a threaded cap, resistant to battery acids and the
like, which is threaded onto the connector and compresses the portions thereof inwardly
to make a frictionally locking contact with the battery post.
[0008] However, most of the current solutions provide a connector system for connecting
a battery with a cable, possibly combined with a lug having a flat part that provides
small electrical contacted surfaces and does not solve any surface imperfection problems.
Most of those solutions operate at voltages that are between a range of 12-28V and
need high torque to get enough pressure between its parts.
[0009] Furthermore, the above-mentioned connector systems are provided with a cable lug
in combination with a nut and a safety washer. In these connector systems, the torque
of the nut is crucial to have enough contact pressure between the surfaces of the
lug and the battery terminal, which is important to have a low resistance between
the lug and the battery terminal. The above-mentioned systems also require the nut
to have a big diameter to reach a desired torque for high current contact which often
results in heavy connector system designs.
[0010] Furthermore, using nuts and washers may provide for an unhandy mounting situation.
Moreover, securing such connections is generally not provided, which may constitute
a safety issue in applications that require fail-safe electrical connector systems
such as most aerospace and aeronautical applications.
[0011] Based on the limitations and drawbacks of the prior art, an objective is to provide
an electrical connector system for attaching a transmission line to an electrical
component. The electrical connector system should require low axial forces for tightening
its parts. The electrical connector system should also have a simple and light-weight
design, and be easy to install. Additionally, the electrical connector system should
use standard assembly tools for attaching a transmission line to an electrical component.
Furthermore, in the scenario of using fasteners (e.g., a threaded bolt and a nut)
for locking the parts of the electrical connector system, the electrical connector
system should provide fail-safe connections between the fastener and the remaining
parts of the electrical connector system.
[0012] This objective is solved by an apparatus comprising the features of claim 1.
[0013] More specifically, an electrical connector system for connecting a transmission line
with an electrical component comprises a counter element that is coupled to the electrical
component, a lug, and a locking device. The counter element comprises an outer surface
that is angled at a constant angle relative to a central axis of the counter element.
The lug comprises a receiving element that receives the transmission line, and a connecting
element for connecting with the counter element, wherein the connecting element is
arranged in direction of the central axis and has an inner surface that is angled
at the constant angle. The locking device is attached to the electrical component
and rigidly connects the connecting element with the counter element, thereby connecting
the transmission line with the electrical component.
[0014] According to some embodiments, the electrical connector system may be used in high
current applications.
[0015] According to some embodiments, the connecting element of the lug may have a conically
shaped hole that extends in direction of the central axis.
[0016] According to some embodiments, the counter element of the lug may exhibit a conical
shape that attaches to the conically shaped hole of the connecting element, thereby
defining a big contact surface between the counter element and the connecting element.
[0017] According to some embodiments, the contact surface between the connecting element
and the counter element provides lower resistance in the electrical connector system.
[0018] According to some embodiments, the contact surface between the connecting element
and the counter element may exhibit a Morse taper.
[0019] According to some embodiments, the contact surface between the connecting element
and the counter element may provide a need of low axial forces in direction of the
central axis in the electrical connector system.
[0020] According to some embodiments, the locking device may include fasteners that provide
the electrical connector system to operate under high dynamic loads and vibrations.
[0021] According to some embodiments, the contact surface between the connecting element
and the counter element may allow to use one or more small and lightweight designed
fasteners in the locking device.
[0022] According to some embodiments, the one or more fasteners may include a screw or a
nut.
[0023] According to some embodiments, the counter element may include a threaded hole that
receives the screw.
[0024] According to some embodiments, the counter element may include a threaded shaft that
receives the nut.
[0025] According to some embodiments, due to the conically shaped contact surfaces, a small
torque on the fastener may be sufficient to guarantee a contact with low resistance
between the connecting element and the counter element. Thus, fasteners with a small
thread size may suffice.
[0026] According to some embodiments, the locking device may include a securing element
that includes washers or a wire fuse.
[0027] According to some embodiments, the locking device may include a stirrup clamp.
[0028] According to some embodiments, the counter portion may include a groove.
[0029] According to some embodiments, the stirrup clamp may secure the counter element to
the connecting element by resting in the groove of the counter element.
[0030] According to some embodiments, the conically shaped contact surface between the connecting
element and the counter element may require less space than a conventional lug.
[0031] According to some embodiments, the contact surface between the connecting element
and the counter element may provide a conical angle that is between 1,5° to 3°.
[0032] According to some embodiments, due to the conical angle, a comparably low-pressure
force for tightening the electrical connector system may be required.
[0033] According to some embodiments, the conically shaped contact surface between the connecting
element and the counter element may require a relatively low pressure between the
locking device and the electrical component while still providing a very high contact
pressure between the counterpart and the connecting part and thereby eliminate the
need of threaded fasteners in the electrical connector system.
[0034] According to some embodiments, the electrical connector system may provide a light-weight
design.
[0035] According to some embodiments, a transmission line may be attached to the receiving
element of the lug with a standard crimping tool.
[0036] According to one aspect, the counter element is part of the electrical component.
[0037] According to one aspect, the locking device comprises a fastener.
[0038] According to one aspect, the fastener comprises at least one of a screw, a bolt,
or a nut.
[0039] According to one aspect, the counter element has a threaded hole that receives the
fastener.
[0040] According to one aspect, the counter element has a threaded shaft that receives the
fastener.
[0041] According to one aspect, the locking device further comprises a securing element
that secures the fastener to the counter element.
[0042] According to one aspect, the securing element comprises at least one of a cotter-pin
or a wire fuse.
[0043] According to one aspect, the counter element further comprises a groove that extends
in direction of a vertical axis that is perpendicular to the central axis.
[0044] According to one aspect, the locking device comprises a clamp.
[0045] According to one aspect, the clamp settles in the groove and locks the counter element
to the connecting element and the electrical component.
[0046] According to one aspect, the electrical connector system further comprises an additional
counter element coupled to the electrical component, and an additional lug. The additional
counter element comprises an additional outer surface that is angled at the constant
angle relative to the central axis, and an additional groove that extends in direction
of a vertical axis that is perpendicular to the central axis. The additional lug comprises
an additional receiving element that receives an additional transmission line, and
an additional connecting element that is arranged in direction of the central axis,
has an additional inner surface that is angled at the constant angle, and wherein
the clamp settles in the additional groove and locks the additional counter element
to the additional connecting element and the electrical component.
[0047] According to one aspect, the inner surface of the connecting element exhibits at
least one of a frustoconical shape, a pyramidal shape, a stepwise frustoconical shape,
a stepwise pyramidal shape, or a stepwise conical shape.
[0048] According to one aspect, the outer surface of the counter element exhibits at least
one of a frustoconical shape, a pyramidal shape, a stepwise frustoconical shape, a
stepwise pyramidal shape, or a stepwise conical shape.
[0049] According to one aspect, the electrical connector system is adapted to be used in
systems that operate at voltages that are greater than 300V.
[0050] Embodiments are outlined by way of example in the following description with reference
to the attached drawings. In these attached drawings, identical or identically functioning
components and elements are labeled with identical reference numbers and characters
and are, consequently, only described once in the following description.
- Figure 1 is a diagram of an illustrative sectional side view of an electrical connector
system in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 2A is a perspective view of an illustrative electrical connector system with
a locking device that includes a threaded bolt in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 2B is a sectional view of an illustrative electrical connector system that
includes a counter element having a threaded hole in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 2C is a partly sectional view of an illustrative electrical connector system
with a locking device that includes a threaded bolt in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 3A is a perspective view of an illustrative electrical connector system with
a locking device that includes a nut in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 3B is a sectional view of an illustrative electrical connector system that
includes a counter element with a threaded shaft in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 3C is a partly sectional view of an illustrative electrical connector system
with a locking device that includes a nut in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 4A is an exploded view of an illustrative electrical connector system that
includes a counter element having a frustoconical shape in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 4B is an exploded view of an illustrative electrical connector system that
includes a counter element having a pyramidal shape in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 4C is an exploded view of an illustrative electrical connector system that
includes a counter element having a stepwise conical shape in accordance with some
embodiments,
- Figure 5 is a diagram of an illustrative electrical connector system with three lugs
and a locking device with a clamp in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 6A is a sectional side view of an illustrative electrical connector system
that includes a locking device with a clamp that is in a released position in accordance
with some embodiments,
- Figure 6B is a sectional side view of an illustrative electrical connector system
that includes the locking device with a clamp that moves over the counter element
in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 6C is a sectional side view of an illustrative electrical connector system
that includes the locking device with a clamp that locks the counter element to the
lug in accordance with some embodiments,
- Figure 7A is a diagram of an illustrative electrical connector system that includes
a locking device with a securing element that includes a cotter-pin in accordance
with some embodiments,
- Figure 7B is an exploded view of an illustrative electrical connector system that
includes a locking device with a securing element that includes a cotter-pin in accordance
with some embodiments,
- Figure 8A is a diagram of an illustrative electrical connector system that includes
a locking device with a securing element that includes a wire in accordance with some
embodiments, and
- Figure 8B is an exploded view of an electrical connector system that includes a locking
device with a securing element that includes a wire in accordance with some embodiments.
[0051] Exemplary embodiments may be used in any device or system in which an electrical
component is connected with a transmission line. Examples of such devices or systems
with electrical components may include electrical power generation plants, the electrical
power grid, power distribution facilities, musical devices, household appliances,
consumer electronics, telecommunication devices, vehicles such as airplanes, quadcopters,
helicopters, drones, cars, buses, trucks, e-bikes, motorcycles, ships, etc., industrial
machines, etc. Examples for electrical components may include batteries, amplifiers,
transformers, electric motors, power supplies, or any other electrical or electronical
devices with a terminal that is connected with a transmission line.
[0052] Figure 1 shows an illustrative sectional side view of electrical connector system
10 that connects transmission line 11 with electrical component 12. As shown, electrical
connector system 10 may include counter element 13, lug 15 and locking device 18.
Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a and groove 13c that extends in direction
of vertical axis X that is perpendicular to central axis C of electrical connector
system 10.
[0053] Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting
element 17 that is arranged in direction of central axis C. Connecting element 17
may include inner surface 17a that is attached to outer surface 13a of counter element
13. Locking device 18 may be attached to electrical component 12 and may include clamp
19 that locks counter element 13 to connecting element 17 and electrical component
12.
[0054] If desired, electrical connector system 10 may be used in an aircraft and may be
attached to a battery as electrical component 12. Batteries may include lead acid
batteries such as valve-regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries or nickel-cadmium (NiCd)
batteries. Aircraft batteries may be used for ground power, emergency power, improving
DC bus stability, and fault clearing, etc. If desired, the battery of the aircraft
may be connected via a transmission line to an electric motor that drives one or more
rotors of the aircraft.
[0055] If desired, electrical connector system 10 may be attached to electrical component
12 that operates at voltages higher than 300V.
[0056] For example, electrical component 12 may include lead acid batteries. In this case,
acids of electrical component 12 may cause corrosion of parts of electrical component
12 and of electrical connector system 10. The corrosion of at least a part of electrical
component 12 may result from a chemical reaction of counter element 13 and connecting
element 17 of lug 15 when exposed to the acids from the batteries. This in turn may
lead to a higher electrical resistance between electrical component 12 and transmission
line 11.
[0057] In order to avoid the problems arising from the chemical reaction and the resulting
corrosion of the contacts between transmission line 11 and electrical component 12,
counter element 13 and connecting element 17 may include an electrically conductive
material that is resistant to the corrosion caused by acids of electrical component
12.
[0058] In some embodiments, transmission line 11 may be a cable, a line, or a wire. Transmission
line 11 may be adapted to transmit electric power at relatively high voltages. For
example, transmission line 11 may be adapted to transmit electric power at voltages
above 300V.
[0059] If desired, transmission line 11 may be adapted to transmit electric power from a
power supply (e.g., a wall plug, a battery, an electric generator, etc.) to a power
consuming device (e.g., an electric motor, an electrical heating device, an electrical
appliance, etc.) or any intermediate device (e.g., a transformer). For example, transmission
line 11 may transmit electric power from a battery to an electric motor.
[0060] According to some embodiments, counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a that
may exhibit a frustoconical shape around central axis C. Outer surface 13a may be
formed by standard metal drawing techniques such as sheet, tube, or bar metal drawing.
[0061] If desired, receiving element 16 may be attached to transmission line 11 by a number
of different methods including e.g., screw-on, press-on, crimp-on, or any combination
thereof. For example, as shown in Figure 1, receiving element 16 may have an opening
that extends in direction of an axis that is perpendicular to central axis C.
[0062] The opening of receiving element 16 may exhibit conical, pyramidal, cylindrical,
or rectangular shape. Receiving element 16 may have an electrical insulation. If desired,
receiving element 16 may be insulated against corrosion caused, for example, by acid
leaking from electrical component 12.
[0063] Counter element 13 may have projection 23 that protrudes from the frustoconical shape.
If desired, electrical component 12 may have recess or cavity 22 that mirrors projection
23 and into which projection 23 of counter element 13 may snugly fit. Projection 23
may have any shape. For example, projection 23 may have a cylindrical, conical, pyramidal,
or any other shape of a convex polyhedron. Thus, recess 22 may have a corresponding
cavity that has a cylindrical, conical, pyramidal, or any other shape of a convex
polyhedron.
[0064] As shown in Figure 1, counter element 13 may include a U-shaped top portion. The
top portion of counter element 13 may provide groove 13c that extends in direction
of vertical axis X. Groove 13c may be formed by machine cutting processes such as
drilling, milling, bending, grinding, etc. Groove 13c may provide a narrow flange
that guides clamp 19. Clamp 19 may settle in groove 13c, thereby locking counter element
13 to connecting element 17.
[0065] Figure 2A shows an illustrated electrical connector system 10 that is attached to
electrical component 12. As shown, electrical connector system 10 may include lug
15 and locking device 18. Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 and connecting element
17. Locking device 18 may include fastener 20.
[0066] As an example, electrical connector system 10 may be used in an aircraft or any other
vehicle, and electrical component 12 may include a battery or any other electrical
component onboard the aircraft or vehicle. Electrical component 12 may include nickel-cadmium
(NiCd) batteries. However, lead acid types of batteries, such as valve-regulated lead-acid
(VRLA) batteries may also be used.
[0067] If desired, receiving element 16 of lug 15 may have an opening that receives a transmission
line (e.g., transmission line 11 of Figure 1). The opening of receiving element 16
may fasten the transmission line by a number of methods, including e.g., screw-on,
press-on, or crimp-on. The opening of receiving element 16 may exhibit a conical,
pyramidal, cylindrical, or rectangular shape. If desired, receiving element 16 may
be electrically insulated and/or protected against corrosion.
[0068] As shown, locking device 18 may include fastener 20 that provides an externally threaded
surface. In other words, fastener 20 may include a screw or a bolt with a threaded
shaft. Externally threaded fastener 20 may include a machine screw, hex cap screw,
lag screw, round head bolt, track bolt, plow bolt, etc.
[0069] A counter element (e.g., counter element 13 of Figure 1) may be attached to electrical
component 12. As an example, the counter element may be a terminal of electrical component
12. In other words, the counter element may be firmly and non-removably attached to
electrical component 12.
[0070] If desired, the counter element may have a threaded hole that receives fastener 20.
Fastener 20 with an externally threaded shaft and the counter element with an internally
threaded hole may form locking device 18 that rigidly connects connecting element
17 with the counter element.
[0071] If desired, locking device 18 may include an additional fastener 20 in combination
with the externally threaded fastener 20. Additional fastener 20 may include a wave
washer, split washer, curved disk washer, etc.
[0072] Figure 2B illustrates a cross section of electrical connector system 10 that includes
counter element 13 and connecting element 17. Counter element 13 may include outer
surface 13a that is angled at constant angle α. If desired, counter element 13 may
have threaded hole 13b that extends in direction of central axis C of electrical connector
system 10. Connecting element 17 may be arranged in direction of central axis C. Connecting
element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is attached to outer surface 13a of
counter element 13. Outer surface 1.3a of counter element 13 may be angled at constant
angle α. Constant angle α may be between 1° and 5°.
[0073] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example, electrical component 12 may include a battery and counter element 13
may be a terminal of the battery. If desired, electrical connector system 10 may be
installed in an aircraft.
[0074] As shown in Figure 2B, outer surface 13a of counter element 13 may exhibit a frustoconical
shape around central axis C. Outer surface 13a may be formed by standard metal drawing
techniques such as sheet, tube, or bar metal drawing.
[0075] If desired, counter element 13 may include hole 13b that is internally threaded.
Hole 13b may be adapted to receive a locking device (e.g., locking device 18 of Figure
2A). Threaded hole 13b may exhibit a cylindrical shape or non-cylindrical shape. Threaded
hole 13b may be formed by using machining techniques such as drilling, reaming, tapping,
boring, counterboring, countersinking, etc. Threaded hole 13b may be threaded partly
or completely.
[0076] In some embodiments, connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is
angled at constant angle α relative to central axis C. Inner surface 17a with constant
angle α may exhibit a frustoconical shape. Inner surface 17a may include an electrically
conductive material that is resistant to corrosion.
[0077] Inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 may be attached to outer surface 13a of
counter element 13. Therefore, a contact surface of constant angle α may be defined
between inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a. The contact surface between inner
surface 17a and outer surface 13a may exhibit a Morse taper. The Morse Taper may have
constant angle α around central axis C. Constant angle α of the Morse taper may enable
high contact stresses and ensure high stability between inner surface 17a and outer
surface 13a. Therefore, electrical connector system 10 may require comparatively low
axial forces for tightening counter element 13 to connecting element 17.
[0078] If desired, inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 and outer surface 13a of counter
element 13 may be both uniformly tapered, thereby ensuring a close contact between
inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a.
[0079] Figure 2C shows a cross section of electrical connector system 10 that is attached
to electrical component 12. Electrical connector system 10 may include counter element
13, lug 15, and locking device 18. Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a
and threaded hole 13b that extends in direction of central axis C of electrical connector
system 10.
[0080] Lug 15 may include connecting element 17 that is arranged in direction of central
axis C. Connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is attached to outer
surface 13a of counter element 13. Locking device 18 may include fasteners 20 that
lock counter element 13 to connecting element 17 and electrical component 12.
[0081] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example, electrical component 12 may include a battery and counter element 13
may be a terminal of the battery. If desired, counter element 13 may be made of electrically
conductive material that is resistant to corrosion caused by acids (e.g., from the
battery in case of a leak).
[0082] In some embodiments, outer surface 13a of counter element 13 may exhibit a frustoconical
shape around central axis C. Outer surface 13a may be formed by standard metal drawing
techniques such as sheet, tube, or bar metal drawing.
[0083] If desired, counter element 13 may include internally threaded hole 13b. Threaded
hole 13b may receive locking device 18. Locking device 18 may attach counter element
13 with connecting element 17. If desired, locking device 18 may be secured to prevent
rotation around central axis C.
[0084] Threaded hole 13b may exhibit a cylindrical shape or non-cylindrical shape. Threaded
hole 13b may be formed by using machining techniques such as drilling, reaming, tapping,
boring, counterboring, countersinking, etc. Threaded hole 13b may be threaded partly
or completely.
[0085] As shown, locking device 18 may include fastener 20. If desired, fastener 20 may
have an externally threaded surface. For example, fastener 20 may include a screw
or a bolt such as a machine screw, a hex cap screw, a lag screw, a round head bolt,
a track bolt, a plow bolt, etc.
[0086] Threaded hole 13b of counter element 13 may receive fastener 20. If desired, externally
threaded fastener 20 may rigidly attach counter element 13 with connecting element
17.
[0087] Locking device 18 may include an additional fastener 20. Additional fastener 20 may
include a wave washer, split washer, curved disk washer, etc.
[0088] In some embodiments, inner surface 17a may exhibit a frustoconical shape. Inner surface
17a of connecting element 17 may be attached to outer surface 13a of counter element
13. The contact surface between inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a may exhibit
a Morse taper. This may enable high contact stresses and ensure a very stable connection
between connecting element 17 and counter element 13. Thus, relatively low axial forces
on fastener 20 may be sufficient to rigidly attach counter element 13 to connecting
element 17.
[0089] Figure 3A shows an illustrated electrical connector system 10 that is attached to
electrical component 12. Electrical connector system 10 may include counter element
13, lug 15, and locking device 18 Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 and connecting
element 17. Locking device 18 may include fastener 20 that rigidly attaches counter
element 13 with connecting element 17 and electrical component 12.
[0090] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example; electrical component 12 may include a battery. In this case, corrosion
of at least a part of electrical component 12 may occur, caused by a chemical reaction
when battery acid comes into contact with counter element 13. If desired, counter
element 13 may be made from an electrically conductive material that is resistant
to corrosion caused by battery acids.
[0091] If desired, receiving element 16 of lug 15 may be attached to a transmission line
(e.g., transmission line 11 of Figure 1). The transmission line may be attached to
receiving element 16 by a number of methods including e.g., screw-on, press-on, or
crimp-on, if desired.
[0092] The opening of receiving element 16 may exhibit pyramidal, cylindrical, or rectangular
shape. Receiving element 16 may be electrically insulated and/or protected against
corrosion.
[0093] If desired, counter element 13 may include an externally threaded shaft. The externally
threaded shaft may receive fastener 20. Fastener 20 may be internally threaded. For
example, as shown in Figure 3A, fastener 20 may include a nut. The nut may have any
shape and any size that fits onto the externally threaded shaft of counter element
13.
[0094] The nut may have a threaded opening. The threaded opening of the nut may provide
a compression with a friction of its threats when fastened onto externally threaded
shaft of counter element 13.
[0095] The combination of compression forces with the friction of threats may rigidly connect
counter element 13 with connecting element 17. If desired, locking device 18 may include
additional fastener 20. Additional fastener 20 may include a wave washer, split washer,
curved disk washer, etc.
[0096] Figure 3B illustrates a sectional view of electrical connector system 10 that includes
counter element 13 and lug 15. Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a that
is angled at constant angle α and threaded shaft 14 that extends in direction of central
axis C.
[0097] Lug 15 may include connecting element 17 that is arranged in direction of central
axis C. Connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is attached to outer
surface 13a of counter element 13. Inner surface 17a may be angled at constant angle
α.
[0098] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example, electrical component 12 may include a battery and counter element 13
may be a terminal of the battery.
[0099] If desired, counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a that may exhibit a frustoconical
shape around central axis C. Outer surface 13a may be formed by standard metal drawing
techniques such as sheet, tube, or bar metal drawing.
[0100] If desired, counter element 13 may include externally threaded shaft 14. Externally
threaded shaft 14 may extend in direction of central axis C. Externally threaded shaft
14 of counter element 13 may be adapted to receive an internally threaded fastener
(e.g., fastener 20 of Figure 3A).
[0101] Threaded shaft 14 may exhibit a cylindrical shape or non-cylindrical shape. Threaded
shaft 14 may be formed by using machining techniques such as thrilling, milling, grinding,
etc.
[0102] In some embodiments, connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is
angled at constant angle α relative to central axis C. Inner surface 17a with constant
angle α may exhibit a frustoconical shape. Inner surface 17a may have a coating of
electrically conductive material that is resistant to corrosion.
[0103] Inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 may be attached to outer surface 13a of
counter element 13. The contact surface between inner surface 17a and outer surface
13a may have constant angle α. The contact surface between inner surface 17a and outer
surface 13a may exhibit a Morse taper.
[0104] The Morse taper may have constant angle α relative to central axis C. Constant angle
α of Morse taper may enable high contact stresses between connecting element 17 and
counter element 13 and thereby guarantee a high stability of the connection between
connecting element 17 and counter element 13. Therefore, the contact surface may lead
to a reduction of the axial force that is required for rigidly attaching counter element
13 to connecting element 17.
[0105] Figure 3C illustrates a sectional view of illustrative electrical connector system
10 that is attached to electrical component 12. Electrical connector system 10 may
include counter element 13, lug 15, and locking device 18. Counter element 13 may
include outer surface 13a and threaded shaft 14 that extends in direction of central
axis C of electrical connector system 10.
[0106] Lug 15 may include connecting element 17 that is arranged in direction of central
axis C. Connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is attached to outer
surface 13a of counter element 13. Locking device 18 may include fasteners 20 that
lock counter element 13 to connecting element 17 and electrical component 12.
[0107] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example, electrical component 12 may include a battery and counter element 13
may be a terminal of the battery or electrical component may be an electric motor
and counter element may be a terminal of the electric motor.
[0108] If desired, counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a. Outer surface 13a of
counter element 13 may exhibit a frustoconical shape around central axis C. Outer
surface 13a may be formed by standard metal drawing techniques such as sheet, tube,
or bar metal drawing.
[0109] If desired, counter element 13 may include externally threaded shaft 14. Externally
threaded shaft 14 may receive fastener 20. Fastener 20 may be tightened onto threaded
shaft 14, thereby attaching counter element 13 with connecting element 17. Threaded
shaft 14 may exhibit a cylindrical shape or non-cylindrical shape. Threaded shaft
14 may be formed by using machining techniques such as thrilling, milling, grinding,
etc.
[0110] As shown, fastener 20 may include a nut which is internally threaded and designed
for tightening onto threaded shaft 14. If desired, the outside of the nut may have
the form of a polygonal shape such as a triangular shape, a square shape, a rectangular
shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape,
etc.
[0111] If desired, locking device 18 may include additional fastener 20. Additional fastener
20 may include a wave washer, split washer, curved disk washer, etc.
[0112] Figure 4A shows an exploded view of electrical connector system 10 that includes
counter element 13 and lug 15. Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a. Lug
15 may include receiving element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting
element 17 that includes inner surface 17a that is angled at constant angle α.
[0113] If desired, receiving element 16 may have an opening that extends in direction of
an axis that is perpendicular to central axis C. The opening of receiving element
16 may exhibit pyramidal, cylindrical or rectangular shape.
[0114] In some embodiments, receiving element 16 of lug 15 may be attached to transmission
line 11. For example, receiving element 16 may be attached to transmission line 11
by screw-on, press-on, or crimp-on. Receiving element 16 may be electrically insulated
and able to withstand corrosion caused by acids.
[0115] As shown in Figure 4A, inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 that may exhibit
a frustoconical shape around central axis C. Inner surface 17a may be in contact with
outer surface 13a of counter element 13. The frustoconical shape may have a circular,
oval, elliptical, etc. base.
[0116] The contact surface between inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a may exhibit a
Morse taper. The Morse taper may have constant angle α around central axis C. Constant
angle α of the Morse taper may provide for high contact stresses between inner surface
17a and outer surface 13a and thereby ensure a very stable connection between connecting
element 17 and counter element 13. Thus, comparatively low axial forces in direction
of central axis C may be sufficient for rigidly attaching counter element 13 to connecting
element 17.
[0117] Figure 4B shows an exploded view of electrical connector system 10 that includes
counter element 13 and lug 15. Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a. Lug
15 may include receiving element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting
element 17 that includes inner surface 17a that is angled at constant angle α.
[0118] As shown in Figure 4B, inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 may exhibit a pyramidal
shape around central axis C. Outer surface 13a may exhibit a pyramidal shape that
is angled at constant angle α and fits with inner surface 17a.
[0119] The contact surface between inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a may allow stress
distribution between connecting element 17 and counter element 13. The pyramidal shape
may have a triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, etc. base surface.
[0120] In some embodiments, one or more edges of the pyramidal shape may be rounded. A rounded
edge at the outer surface 13a of counter element 13 may be mirrored by a rounded edge
at the inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 so as to provide a snug fit between
counter element 13 and connecting element 17.
[0121] If desired, the pyramidal shape may include several steps. In other words, inner
surface 17a of connecting element 17 may exhibit a stepwise pyramidal shape. Similarly,
outer surface 13a of counter element 13 may exhibit a stepwise pyramidal shape.
[0122] Figure 4C shows electrical connector system 10 that includes counter element 13 and
lug 15. Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a. Lug 15 may include receiving
element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting element 17 that includes
inner surface 17a that is angled at constant angle α.
[0123] For example, as shown in Figure 4C, inner surface 17a may exhibit a stepwise conical
shape or a stepwise frustoconical shape. Outer surface 13a may exhibit a matching
stepwise conical shape or matching stepwise frustoconical shape to inner surface 17a.
The stepwise frustoconical shape may have a circular, oval, elliptical, etc. base.
[0124] Thus, matching inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a may form a contact surface
that results in small electrical resistance between counter element 13 and connecting
element 17.
[0125] If desired, inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 and outer surface 13a of counter
element 13 may be both uniformly tapered. When inner surface 17a is connected with
outer surface 13a, they may come into close contact.
[0126] Figure 5 shows illustrated electrical connector system 10 that connects three transmission
lines 11 with one electrical component 12. If desired, electrical connector system
10 may connect any number of transmission lines 11 with electrical component 12. For
example, electrical connector system 10 may connect one, two, three, four, five, six,
seven, eight, etc. transmission lines 11 with electrical component 12.
[0127] As shown, electrical connector system 10 may include counter element 13, lugs 15,
and locking device 18. Counter element 13 may include groove 13c. Locking device 18
may be attached to electrical component 12 and may include handle 19a and clamp 19.
Groove 13c may provide a narrow flange that guides clamp 19. Thus, clamp 19 may settle
in groove 13c, thereby locking counter element 13 to connecting element 17 and electrical
component 12.
[0128] In some embodiments, electrical connector system 10 may be attached to a battery.
As an example, electrical connector system 10 may be used in an aircraft and be connected
to a lead acid battery. Acid from a leaking battery may cause corrosion of counter
element 13 and connecting element 17, which in turn may lead to an increased electrical
resistance between the battery and connecting element 17. To avoid problems caused
by corrosion, counter element 13 and connecting element 17 may consist of an electrically
conductive material that has a predetermined resistance to corrosion caused by acids
from electrical component 12.
[0129] Each one of lugs 15 may include connecting element 17 and receiving element 16 that
receives transmission line 11. In some embodiments, transmission line 11 may be a
cable, a line, a wire, or any other component that is designed to conduct a current
to and/or from electrical component 12.
[0130] If desired, transmission line 11 may be attached to receiving element 16 by a number
of methods including screw-on, press-on, or crimp-on. For example, receiving element
16 may have an opening that extends in a direction that is perpendicular to groove
13c. The opening of receiving element 16 may exhibit a circular, oval, elliptical,
or polygonal (e.g., triangular, rectangular, etc.) shape. Receiving element 16 may
have an electrically insulated outer surface, if desired.
[0131] As shown, electrical connector system 10 may include three counter elements 13. Each
counter element 13 may have a projection (e.g., projection 23 of Figure 1). If desired,
electrical component 12 may have a corresponding recess or cavity (e.g., recess 22
of Figure 1) that mirrors the projection and into which the projection of counter
element 13 may snugly fit.
[0132] In some embodiments, locking device 18 may include handle 19a that is attached to
clamp 19. Clamp 19 may be moved by handle 19a manually over the U-shaped top portion
of counter element 13 and settle in groove 13c.
[0133] Figure 6A illustrates a sectional side view of electrical connector system 10 that
connects transmission line 11 with electrical component 12. Electrical connector system
% 10 may include counter element 13 that is coupled to electrical component 12, lug
15, and locking device 18. Locking device 18 may include clamp 19 that is in a released
position.
[0134] Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a that is arranged in direction of
central axis C, and groove 13c that extends in direction of vertical axis X. Lug 15
may include receiving element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting
element 17. Connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is angled at
constant angle α. Locking device 18 may be attached to electrical component 12 and
may include handle 19a and clamp 19 that locks counter element 13 to connecting element
17 and electrical component 12.
[0135] If desired, counter element 13 may have projection 23 at its bottom, and electrical
component 12 may include recess 22 on its top. In some embodiments, projection 23
of counter element 13 may neatly fit into recess 22 of electrical component 12. In
a released position of locking device 18, projection 23 of counter element 13 may
be arranged above recess 22 of electrical component 12.
[0136] As shown, inner surface 17a of connecting element 17 may exhibit a frustoconical
shape around central axis C. Inner surface 17a may receive outer surface 13a of counter
element 13. The contact surface between inner surface 17a and outer surface 13a may
exhibit a Morse taper. The Morse taper may have constant angle α around central axis
C. Constant angle α of the Morse taper may allow high contact stresses and provide
for a very stable connection between counter element 13 and connecting element 17.
[0137] In some embodiments, locking device 18 may include handle 19a that is attached to
clamp 19. Handle 19a may assist in moving clamp 19 from the released position to a
locked position (e.g., the position shown in Figure 6C).
[0138] Figure 6B illustrates a sectional side view of electrical connector system 10 that
connects transmission line 11 with electrical component 12. Electrical connector system
10 may include counter element 13 that is coupled to electrical component 12, lug
15, and locking device 18. Locking device 18 may include clamp 19 that moves over
counter element 13.
[0139] Counter element 13 may include outer surface 13a that is arranged in direction of
central axis C. Counter element 13 may have groove 13c that extends in direction of
vertical axis X.
[0140] Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting
element 17. Connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is angled at
constant angle α.
[0141] Locking device 18 may be attached to electrical component 12. Locking device 18 may
include handle 19a and clamp 19 that locks counter element 13 to connecting element
17 and electrical component 12.
[0142] Counter element 13 may have a top portion that is formed in a U-shaped form and that
includes groove 13c. Groove 13c may extend in direction of vertical axis X. The U-shaped
top portion of counter element 13 may guide clamp 19 to move into groove 13c.
[0143] If desired, counter element 13 may include projection 23 at its bottom. Electrical
component 12 may include recess 22 on its top that may mirror the shape of projection
23. As shown in Figure 6B, when clamp 19 moves over counter element 13, projection
23 of counter element 13 may settle into recess 22 of electrical component 12.
[0144] Figure 6C illustrates a sectional side view of electrical connector system 10 that
connects transmission line 11 with electrical component 12. Electrical connector system
10 may include counter element 13 that is coupled to electrical component 12, lug
15, and locking device 18.
[0145] Counter element 13 may include groove 13c that receives clamp 19. Counter element
13 may have outer surface 13a that is arranged in direction of central axis C. Lug
15 may include receiving element 16 that receives transmission line 11 and connecting
element 17. Connecting element 17 may include inner surface 17a that is angled at
constant angle α.
[0146] Locking device 18 may be attached to electrical component 12. If desired, locking
device 18 may include handle 19a attached to clamp 19. Such a clamp is sometimes also
referred to as a stirrup clamp. Clamp 19 may lock counter element 13 to connecting
element 17 and electrical component 12. Handle 19a may assist in moving clamp 19 with
comparatively low effort.
[0147] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may have a U-shaped top portion that includes
groove 13c which extends in direction of vertical axis X. After moving clamp 19 over
the U-shaped top portion of counter element 13, clamp 19 may settle in groove 13c
and lock counter element 13 to connecting element 17 and electrical component 12.
[0148] Figure 7A shows illustrative electrical connector system 10 that is attached to electrical
component 12. Electrical connector system 10 may include counter, element 13, lug
15, and locking device 18. Locking device 18 may include fasteners 20 and securing
element 21. Counter element 13 may have threaded shaft 14 that receives fastener 20.
Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 and connecting element 17.
[0149] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may include threaded shaft 14 that may receive
fasteners 20. Fasteners 20 may be tightened on threaded shaft 14, thereby rigidly
connecting counter element 13 with connecting element 17. Threaded shaft 14 may provide
for a high tensile strength. The high tensile strength in threaded shaft 14 may result
in high fatigue and wear resistance in electrical connector system 10. Threaded shaft
14 may exhibit a cylindrical shape or non-cylindrical shape. Threaded shaft 14 may
be formed by using machining techniques such as thrilling, milling, grinding, etc.
[0150] If desired, locking device 18 may include additional fastener 20. Additional fastener
20 may include a wave washer, split washer, curved disk washer, etc.
[0151] As shown, locking device 18 may include securing element 21 that allows to hold fastener
20 and threaded shaft 14 together. Securing element 21 may secure fastener 20 to counter
element 13. For example, securing element 21 may prevent a rotational movement of
fastener 20 on threaded shaft 14. As shown, securing element 21 may include a cotter-pin.
However, other pin types for securing element 21 may be available, such as clinch
pin, grooved pin, dowel pin, lynch pin, taper pin, etc. In some embodiments, securing
element 21 may be a wire or any other device that prevents a rotational movement of
fastener 20 on threaded pin 14.
[0152] Figure 7B illustrates an exploded view of electrical connector system 10 that is
attached to electrical component 12. Electrical connector system 10 includes counter
element 13, lug 15, and locking device 18. As shown, locking device 18 may include
two fasteners 20 and securing element 21.
[0153] Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 and connecting element 17. Counter element
13 may include threaded shaft 14 that receives fasteners 20. If desired, counter element
13 may be rigidly attached to electrical component 12.
[0154] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example, electrical component 12 may be a battery and counter element 13 may
be a terminal of the battery. As another example, electrical component 12 may be an
electric motor and counter element 13 may be a contact of the electric motor.
[0155] Counter element 13 may include externally threaded shaft 14 that may receive internally
threaded fastener 20. For example, fastener 20 may include a nut. The nut may be tightened
on threaded shaft 14, thereby rigidly connecting counter element 13 with connecting
element 17, and thus a transmission line with electrical component 12.
[0156] If desired, locking device 18 may include additional fastener 20. Additional fastener
20 may include a wave washer, split washer, curved disk washer, etc.
[0157] Counter element 13 and the nut may include openings that allow securing element 21
to pass through counter element 13 and the nut.
[0158] For example, threaded shaft 14 may include a hole that may extend through threaded
shaft 14. The hole of threaded shaft 14 may receive securing element 21 that allows
to hold fastener 20 and threaded shaft 14 together.
[0159] Securing element 21 may secure fastener 20 to counter element 13 by preventing a
rotational movement between fastener 20 and threaded shaft 14. Securing element 21
may include a cotter-pin. However, securing element 21 may be a different pin such
as clinch pin, grooved pin, dowel pin, lynch pin, taper pin, etc. If desired, securing
element may be a wire or any other device that prevents a rotational movement of fastener
20 on externally threaded shaft 14.
[0160] Figure 8A illustrates electrical connector system 10 that is attached to electrical
component 12. As shown, electrical connector system 10 may include counter element
13, lug 15, and locking device 18. Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 and connecting
element 17. As shown, locking device 18 may include two fasteners 20 that rigidly
attach counter element 13 with connecting element 17. If desired, locking device 1.8
may include securing element 21 that secures fastener 20 to counter element 13.
[0161] In some embodiments, fasteners 20 may be inserted into counter element 13 Fastener
20 may tighten connecting element 17 with counter element 13 using an externally threaded
shaft. As an example, externally threaded fastener 20 may be a screw or an externally
threaded bolt, such as a machine screw, hex cap screw, lag screw, round head bolts,
track bolts, plow bolts, etc.
[0162] If desired, locking device 18 may include additional fastener 20 in combination with
the externally threaded fastener 20. As shown in Figure 8A, locking device 18 may
include securing element 21 that secures fasteners 20 to counter element 13.
[0163] For example, counter element 13 may include one or more notches 24, and additional
fastener 20 may have one or more projections 25 that fit into the corresponding notches
24. Thus, additional fastener 21 may be unable to rotate relative to counter element
13 when additional fastener 21 is fastened to counter element 13 such that projections
25 have settled in the corresponding notches 24.
[0164] Fastener 20 and additional fastener 20 may each have eye 26. If desired, securing
device 21 may include a wire that connects fastener 20 with additional fastener 20
through the respective eyes 26.
[0165] Figure 8B illustrates an exploded view of electrical connector system 10 of Figure
8A. As shown, electrical connector system 10 may be attached to electrical component
12. Electrical connector system 10 may include counter element 13, lug 15, and locking
device 18. Counter element 13 may include one or more notches 24.
[0166] Lug 15 may include receiving element 16 and connecting element 17. Locking device
18 may include fastener 20 that rigidly connects counter element 13 with connecting
element 17. If desired, locking device 16 may include securing element 21 that secures
fastener 20 to counter element 13.
[0167] In some embodiments, counter element 13 may be a part of electrical component 12.
As an example, electrical component 12 may include a battery, and counter element
13 may be a terminal or contact of the battery. As another example, electrical component
12 may be a transformer or an electric motor, and counter element 13 may be a contact
of the transformer or the electric motor.
[0168] If desired, counter element 13 may include internally threaded hole 13b that may
receive externally threaded fastener 20. Fastener 20 that is settled in threaded hole
13b may rigidly attach counter element 13 with connecting element 17.
[0169] As shown, externally threaded fastener 20 may include a screw or a bolt. Externally
threaded fastener 20 may have eye 26 that is adapted to receive a wire. If desired,
for increasing tightening forces between counter element 13 and connecting element
17, locking device 18 may include additional fastener 20.
[0170] Additional fastener 20 may have one or more projections that are adapted to settle
in notches 24 of counter element 13. Thus, additional fastener 21 may be unable to
rotate relative to counter element 13. Additional fastener 20 may have eye 26 that
receives securing element 21. Such an additional fastener 20 is sometimes also referred
to as a securing washer or a locking tab.
[0171] If desired, securing device 21 may be a wire that connects fastener 20 with additional
fastener 20 through the respective eyes 26. Thus, fastener 20 may be prevented from
performing a rotational movement relative to counter element 13 when additional fastener
21 is fastened to counter element 13 such that projections 25 have settled in the
corresponding notches 24.
[0172] As a result, securing element 21, together with fastener 20, additional fastener
20, projections 25, and notches 24 may ensure that fastener 20 remains rigidly attached
to counter element 13, thereby ensuring the lug 15 remains tightly coupled to electrical
component 12.
[0173] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are merely described for
illustration purposes, but hot in order to restrict the present invention thereto.
Instead, multiple modifications and variations of the presented embodiments are possible
and should, therefore, also be considered as being part of the invention.
[0174] For example, electrical connector system 10 of Figure 5 is shown with three counter
elements 13 that are attached to three connecting elements 17. However, electrical
connector system 10 of Figure 5 may have any number of counter elements 13 with any
number of connecting elements 17. For example, electrical connector system 10 of Figure
5 may have five counter elements 13 that are attached to five connecting elements
17, two counter elements 13 that are attached to two connecting elements 17, etc.
[0175] As another example, electrical connector system 10 of Figures 1 to 4C and 6A to 8C
is shown to include one lug 15 with one connecting element 17. However, electrical
connector system 10 of Figures 1 to 4C and 6A to 8C may have any number of lugs 15
with any number of connecting elements 17. For example, the number of connecting elements
17 may be the same as the number of lugs 15 or may be greater than the number of lugs
15.
[0176] Moreover, in Figures 1, 5 and 6A to 6C, it is shown that receiving element 16 of
lug 15 receives one transmission line 11 However, electrical connector system 10 of
Figures 1, 5 and 6A to 6C may have any number of receiving elements 16 with any number
of transmission lines 11. If desired, receiving element 16 may include a hole that
may receive any shape including polygonal, irregular, or rounded shapes, such as triangular,
rectangular, trapezoidal, round, oval, elliptical, or hourglass shapes.
[0177] Furthermore, the described and illustrated configurations of electrical connector
system 10 can be varied arbitrarily without influencing an underlying functionality
thereof. As a consequence, corresponding configurations of counter element 13 and
lug 15 can be adapted as required, and so on.
Reference List
[0178]
- 1.0
- electrical connector system
- 11
- transmission line
- 12
- electrical component
- 13
- counter element
- 13a
- outer surface
- 13b
- threaded hole
- 13c
- groove
- 14
- threaded shaft
- 15
- lug
- 16
- receiving element
- 17
- connecting element
- 17a
- inner surface
- 18
- locking device
- 19
- clamp
- 19a
- handle
- 20
- fastener
- 21
- securing element
- 22
- recess, cavity
- 23
- projection
- 24
- notch
- 25
- projection
- 26
- eye
- C
- central axis
- X
- vertical axis
- α
- angle