Recently, VCC was introduced to AC Propulsion of San Dimas, CA. AC Propulsion supplies electric propulsion and battery technology for electric vehicles. Most notably, they have contracted with BMW to provide systems for the BMW MINI E electric vehicle. The AC Propulsion drive system includes a power electronics unit and AC-induction traction motor featuring proprietary and patented tzero™ technology to provide high performance, high efficiency, and rapid, convenient charging capabilities for electric vehicle applications. 

AC Propulsion designed-in a modified version of VCC’s CNX 440 threaded cable assembly  with a CMS 442 lens to be used as a warning indicator in the event the electric motor or battery unit overheat. What attracted them to the VCC product was its NEMA 4 rating for moisture, as well as VCC’s ability to customize it for the application.

VCC takes its environmental responsibility seriously, and we feel quite good knowing that our products in this project and many others like it are helping us follow-through on our committments. 

About AC Propulsion:

AC Propulsion is a California corporation founded in 1992 by Alan Cocconi to develop and commercialize advanced propulsion for a new type of vehicle — efficient but powerful, zero-emission but fun to drive, gasoline-free but convenient to use — the electric vehicle. The world needs electric vehicles to provide transportation without petroleum. Our propulsion systems — motors, inverters, chargers, and batteries — make electric vehicles efficient, fast, and fun to drive. We are working with automakers, large and small, around the world, who want to build such vehicles.

On the web at www.acpropulsion.com

Cummings Power Generators choose our CMS 442 sealed lens for its ruggedized controller. The NEMA 4-rated CMS 442 is a low-profile, button-type lens that has a smooth, clean look with a convex surface protruding just above the panel. This minimizes the potential problems of snagging, interference, or physical damage that might result from outside sources such as clothing, jewelry, tools, etc. 

The threaded design makes for a quick and simple assembly to the front panel. With less than a full turn, the lens is tightly mounted to the panel using the included lock washer and retaining ring.  Note that the circuit board is completely independent of the display panel, simplifying its installation or removal for assembly or repair.

 The CMS 442 & 462 lens assemblies have been designed not only to meet the needs of all indoor applications, but have also been successfully proven in harsh environments. The units, with uniquely-designed spiral mating threads, provide a superior mounting system that has been tested by an independent laboratory and has exceeded all test criteria for NEMA 4 and beyond (Water Seal, depths down to 100m; Shock, up to 6Gs; Vibration, shaken up to 6 Gs from 0 to 2000Hz; Temperature Cycling from -40°C to +105°C; UV resistance; Dust Sealing; and Ice Encasement). This is one tough lens able to take what you can dish out.

The CMS 442 lens greatly increases the aesthetics of the display panel. Its low-profile design greatly enhances the light output of the LED by significantly reducing the ambient light effect upon the lens. The lens can increase the viewing angle to 180° by the use of patented VCC diffusion ring technology.  While the CMS 442 is used for 5mm LED applications, the CMS 462 provides a 10mm LED solution.  These lenses are also paired with VCC Litepipes® and cable assemblies to meet all of your needs.

VCC is proud to introduce its GLO Series lenses.  They are made from a unique thermoplastic material that diffuses a LED’s light output and dramatically reduces “hot-spots”. The result is a clean, hi-tech glow that evenly distributes the light along the lens surface and can be viewed from nearly any angle.

Currently, VCC offers the SMB 200, SML 190, CLB 300, and CLF 280 as part of the GLO Series. Custom design inquiries are welcome.

VCC’s new GLO Series responds to the needs of the marketplace with color innovation, offering even greater flexibility to design engineers.  

Dacor^®, a domestic manufacturer of high quality kitchen appliances has selected a VCC Conxrite LED cable assembly to deliver light in its complete line of ranges. Dacor was looking for an innovative way of illuminating the knobs on their ranges as an indicator that the range is on. A specially designed knob with an imbedded light pipe allows the light from VCC’s K Series connector to pass through, illuminating the knob.

 The VCC K Series interconnector provides various methods of LED connection to power source circuitry, further simplifying assembly procedures. Standard interconnectors are offered in lengths of 4″, 8″, 12″, 18″ and 24″ and include a locking header connector. Terminations are also available with stripped wire leads for terminal attachment or soldering directly to the circuit board.

 The K Series requires no tools for assembly while providing a simple, fast press-fit connection to various panels. Additionally, its use precludes the necessity of direct hard-wiring.

 The K Series supports and stress-relieves the LED leads providing the stability necessary to eliminate any issues with broken or damaged leads. In addition, panel LED push-back problems, typical of the clip and ring mount, are resolved, resulting in a more secure assembly.

 Dacor selected VCC’s interconnector system for its ability to quickly attach to a PCB-mounted header. The K Series connector facilitates the preassembly of wiring harnesses, precluding the need for hard-wiring directly to the LED. This permits easy installation of LEDs in final assembly and replacement of defective LEDs in test and field service operations, both of which help to significantly lower costs.