Device for quickly connecting mine wiring terminal

Abstract

The invention discloses a device for quickly connecting mine wiring terminals, which comprises a probe seat, a sealing piece and a positioning mechanism, a plurality of probes are arranged at the end part of the probe seat along the axial direction, the first ends of the probes protrude out of the end part of the probe seat, the second ends of the probes are connected with a lead-out cable, and the lead-out cable is connected with the sealing piece. An external thread is arranged in the circumferential direction of the probe seat, the sealing piece is in threaded connection with the probe seat, a clamping space is formed between the sealing piece and the probe seat, the positioning mechanism comprises a magnetic piece and a plurality of buckling pieces, the plurality of buckling pieces are arranged in the circumferential direction of the probe seat, and the magnetic piece and the plurality of buckling pieces are in threaded connection. The clamping fasteners are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with positioning holes in the side surface of the wiring terminal, the clamping fasteners enter the positioning holes to fix the probe seat, and the magnetic part is arranged in the clamping space to magnetically adsorb and fix the probe seat and the wiring terminal. The device for quick connection of the mine wiring terminal has the advantages of being quick and stable in connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of testing equipment technology, and in particular to a device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks. Background Technology

[0002] All electrical connections at the terminal blocks must be manually made externally using cables, which consumes a significant amount of manpower, especially in the confined space of the control box, where manual wiring is extremely time-consuming and labor-intensive. Normally, post-production inspection of the control box is an indispensable part of the entire production process and is crucial for ensuring its quality. Therefore, the extensive use of external connection cables for debugging the control box significantly reduces its efficiency. The underground mining environment is characterized by strong vibrations from mining machinery, continuous and large amounts of fine dust from coal and rock crushing, and confined spaces with poor lighting and visibility. Personnel working underground require thick gloves for safety. During on-site debugging in the mine, it is necessary to minimize downtime while preventing vibration-induced connection failures, and to prevent dust intrusion and collision damage to the probes. Therefore, it is essential to ensure both effective debugging and efficient control box debugging. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention is based on the inventor's discovery and understanding of the following facts and problems: the efficiency of connecting and debugging cables with terminal blocks is low. This invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in the related art. To this end, embodiments of this invention propose a device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks, which has the advantages of rapid and stable connection.

[0004] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks includes a probe base, a sealing member, and a positioning mechanism. The probe base has multiple probes arranged axially at its end. A first end of each probe protrudes from the end of the probe base, and a second end of each probe is connected to a lead-out cable. The probe base has an external thread in its circumferential direction. The sealing member is threadedly connected to the probe base, forming a clamping space between the sealing member and the probe base. The positioning mechanism includes a magnetic element and multiple latching elements. The latching elements are arranged circumferentially on the probe base, and each latching element corresponds to a positioning hole on the side of the terminal block. The latching elements enter the positioning holes to fix the probe base. The magnetic element is arranged within the clamping space to magnetically attract and fix the probe base to the terminal block.

[0005] The device for quick connection of mine terminals according to embodiments of the present invention has the advantages of rapid and stable connection. This application has the following advantages: Dual fixation is achieved through the cooperation of a snap-fit ​​component and a magnetic component, improving the stability of the connection between the probe holder and the terminal, and allowing for quick disassembly and installation. The magnetic component enables pre-positioning of the terminal and the probe holder, while the snap-fit ​​component provides mechanical fixation, resisting the impact of vibration on both. The snap-fit ​​component and the magnetic component work together to fix the terminals, and the snap-fit ​​process slows down the magnetic adsorption speed through friction, preventing the terminal from impacting the probe holder. The barbed structure of the snap-fit ​​component copes with strong vibration environments, improving the locking effect compared to conventional snap-fits, and mitigating the impact risk from strong magnetic adsorption. The resistance of the snap-fit ​​entering the positioning hole forms a buffer, preventing probe collision damage—a feature not considered in conventional snap-fits. The snap-fit ​​component, combined with magnetic pre-positioning, allows for quick engagement without visual inspection, adapting to confined underground spaces and operation with gloves.

[0006] The magnetic attraction of the magnetic components allows for rapid pre-positioning, and the arrangement of the magnetic components within the clamping space reduces the risk of dust entering through gaps and causing poor contact.

[0007] In some embodiments, the end of the latching member away from the probe base is provided with a barb, at least part of which enters the positioning hole and hooks onto its hole wall.

[0008] In some embodiments, a sheath is further included, which is fitted over the first end of the probe and is slidably connected to the probe seat to change the exposed length of the probe.

[0009] In some embodiments, a spring is provided at one end of the sheath adjacent to the probe seat, the spring being connected to the probe seat to push the sheath away from the probe seat.

[0010] In some embodiments, the probe holder includes a first cylinder and a second cylinder that are coaxially aligned. The first cylinder and the second cylinder are joined together in the axial direction. The diameter of the first cylinder is larger than the diameter of the second cylinder to form a stepped boss. The first cylinder is provided with an external thread in the circumferential direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the closure includes a first ring and a second ring, the diameter of the first ring being larger than the diameter of the second ring, and the inner wall of the first ring being provided with an internal thread for engaging with the external thread of the first cylinder.

[0012] In some embodiments, a sealing ring is further included, which is disposed between the closure and the probe seat to increase sealing performance, and the sealing ring is in contact with the second ring.

[0013] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the first ring is provided with anti-slip texture, and the outer surface of the first ring is provided with a plurality of protrusions, which are arranged in a triangle to indicate the direction of rotation.

[0014] In some embodiments, a transparent window is provided on the outer surface of the first ring, the transparent window being used to observe the position of the magnetic component within the clamping space.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first end of the probe is a spherical protrusion, and a wear indicator mark is provided on the probe. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a device for quick connection of mining terminals according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the probe holder of a device for quick connection of mining terminals according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the enclosure of the device for quick connection of mining terminals according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Reference numerals: 1. Probe holder; 10. First cylinder; 11. Second cylinder; 2. Probe; 3. Sealing element; 30. First ring; 31. Second ring; 4. Magnetic element; 5. Lead-out cable. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks includes a probe base 1, a sealing member 3, and a positioning mechanism. Multiple probes 2 are arranged axially at the end of the probe base 1. The first end of each probe 2 protrudes from the end of the probe base 1, and the second end of each probe 2 is connected to a lead-out cable 5. External threads are provided in the circumferential direction of the probe base 1. The sealing member 3 is threadedly connected to the probe base 1, forming a clamping space between the sealing member 3 and the probe base 1. The positioning mechanism includes a magnetic member 4 and multiple latching members. The latching members are arranged circumferentially on the probe base 1, and each latching member corresponds to a positioning hole on the side of the terminal block. The latching members enter the positioning holes to fix the probe base 1. The magnetic member 4 is arranged within the clamping space to magnetically attract and fix the probe base 1 to the terminal block. The multiple probes 2 arranged at the end of the probe base 1 ensure multi-point contact with the terminal block, improving the stability and reliability of the connection. The first end of each probe 2 protrudes from the probe base 1, facilitating quick insertion into the hole of the terminal block for rapid connection. The threaded connection between probe holder 1 and enclosure 3 facilitates assembly and disassembly, enabling both inspection and protection of probe holder 1. Enclosure 3 effectively prevents dust, moisture, and other impurities from entering the clamping space, protecting the internal components. The positioning mechanism uses magnetic attachment 4 to magnetically attract the steel plate containing the wiring terminals. A snap-fit ​​device secures the wiring terminal to the side of the terminal block via positioning holes on the side. This double-fixing of the magnetic attachment and snap-fit ​​device ensures a firm connection between probe holder 1 and the wiring terminals, preventing loosening due to vibration or external force. The positioning mechanism enables quick connection between probe holder 1 and the wiring terminals, facilitating rapid verification of wiring and reducing wiring time. Connecting the cable to probe 2 of probe holder 1 requires no repeated disassembly and installation. The cooperation of magnetic attachment 4 and snap-fit ​​device ensures a stable connection of probe holder 1, guaranteeing safety. The mounting side of the terminal block is flat for easy attraction to magnetic components. The outer periphery of the terminal block is used to arrange positioning holes. While the terminal block can be considered rectangular, its shape is not limited to rectangles. The outer periphery of the terminal block is perpendicular to or intersects the mounting plane. Multiple positioning holes on the outer periphery are used to engage with the locking components for positioning and locking, without interfering with wiring and installation, and fully utilizing the side space. The number of positioning holes corresponds to the number of locking components on the probe holder. When the probe holder is installed, the locking components on the probe holder align with the positioning holes, achieving installation without angle adjustment. The evenly distributed positioning holes ensure uniform force application for locking.

[0022] In some embodiments, a barb is provided at the end of the latching member away from the probe base 1, and at least part of the barb enters the positioning hole and hooks onto its hole wall.

[0023] Specifically, the barbs on the latching components allow them to securely hook onto the positioning hole wall of the terminal block, providing additional mechanical locking force and ensuring a stable connection between the probe holder 1 and the terminal block under various harsh conditions (such as vibration and impact). The barbs reduce errors caused by manual operation, ensuring that each latching component accurately enters the positioning hole and hooks, thus improving the overall connection quality. The inner diameter of the positioning hole matches the outer diameter of the latching component, and the axial direction of the positioning hole intersects with the axial direction of the probe, allowing the barbs of the latching components to hook onto the hole wall.

[0024] The buckle is made of elastic material. Moving the buckle separates the barb from the positioning hole, allowing for quick disassembly and easy maintenance and replacement. The hook-and-positioning mechanism reduces relative movement between the buckle and the positioning hole, thus reducing wear and extending the lifespan of both. The elastic material of the barb allows it to adjust its angle when inserted into the positioning hole, ensuring reliable engagement at various insertion angles.

[0025] In some embodiments, a sheath is also included, which is fitted over the first end of the probe 2 and is slidably connected to the probe seat 1 to change the exposed length of the probe 2.

[0026] Specifically, the sheath effectively protects the first end of probe 2 from damage caused by collisions or scratches during transportation, storage, or operation. The sheath reduces oxidation and contamination on the surface of probe 2, thereby lowering contact resistance and reducing infrequent connections. The slidable connection between the sheath and probe holder 1 allows the exposed length of probe 2 to be adjusted according to actual connection requirements. This increases the flexibility of the device, enabling it to adapt to different specifications of wiring terminals. When not connected, the sheath completely covers the first end of probe 2, preventing accidental contact with live parts by operators and improving operational safety.

[0027] In some embodiments, a spring is provided at one end of the sheath adjacent to the probe base 1, and the spring is connected to the probe base 1 to push the sheath away from the probe base 1.

[0028] Specifically, the spring's elastic deformation allows the sheath to automatically return to its original position when not in use, that is, it automatically slides to the end of the probe holder 1, completely covering the first end of the probe 2. This prevents the probe 2 from being exposed when not connected, improving operational safety and convenience. It reduces the need for operators to manually adjust the sheath's position, lowering the risk of connection errors or damage due to misoperation. Driven by the spring's elasticity, the sheath always tightly covers the first end of the probe 2. Only when an external force pushes the sheath to retract can the probe 2 be exposed. After the probe is inserted into the probe holder, the sheath is blocked by the probe holder and cannot return to its original position. Even in environments with vibration or impact, it maintains protection for the probe 2, preventing wear and contamination of the probe 2's surface.

[0029] The sheath is a hollow tubular component with an inner diameter slightly larger than that of probe 2, allowing the sheath to move relative to probe 2. One end of the spring is fixedly connected to the probe holder, and the other end is fixedly connected to the end of the sheath. The free end of the sheath points towards the terminal block. The spring maintains a certain preload, and when it returns to its original deformation, it pushes the sheath towards probe 2 and the terminal block. Understandably, at least a portion of the spring and probe 2 are within the probe holder, with the spring positioned in the gap between the probe holder and the probe.

[0030] The relationship between the movement of the sheath and the spring: When not in use, probe 2 is not connected to the terminal block; the spring extends, pushing the sheath towards the side of the probe holder adjacent to the terminal block. Figure 1 Slide it to the right as shown in the diagram until the front end of the sheath completely covers the first end of probe 2, at which point probe 2 is not exposed at all; In use: The operator presses the sheath towards the probe seat with their hand or by using the end face of the terminal block. The spring is compressed, and the sheath slides backward and retracts into the gap between the probe seat and the probe 2. The first end of the probe is gradually exposed until it can be inserted into the hole of the terminal block. After the terminal block is removed, the sheath will move on its own under the drive of the spring to cover the surface of the probe 2.

[0031] After connection: When probe 2 is inserted into the terminal block, the free end of the sheath is blocked by the terminal block's outer shell and cannot move or reset (the spring remains compressed). At this time, the sheath fits between the terminal block and the probe holder, neither affecting probe contact nor hindering the connection between the probe and the terminal. In the dusty environment of underground mines, probes are exposed for extended periods, which can easily lead to poor contact due to dust accumulation, and may also cause electric shock or probe bending damage due to accidental contact. The sheath automatically resets, passively exposing probe 2 under external force, thus improving safety.

[0032] In some embodiments, the probe holder 1 includes a first cylinder 10 and a second cylinder 11 that are coaxial. The first cylinder 10 and the second cylinder 11 are joined together in the axial direction. The diameter of the first cylinder 10 is larger than the diameter of the second cylinder 11 to form a stepped boss. The first cylinder 10 is provided with an external thread in the circumferential direction.

[0033] Specifically, the stepped boss provides additional support points, enhancing the mechanical strength of the probe holder 1. During connection and fixation, it can withstand greater forces and can form multi-point fixation with the closure 3 or other components, further improving connection reliability and reducing loosening due to vibration or external forces. The first cylinder 10 cooperates with the closure 3, and the second cylinder 11 is used to mount the probe 2.

[0034] In some embodiments, the closure 3 includes a first ring 30 and a second ring 31. The diameter of the first ring 30 is larger than the diameter of the second ring 31. The inner wall of the first ring 30 is provided with an internal thread to cooperate with the external thread of the first cylinder 10.

[0035] Specifically, the closure 3 enhances the overall strength through the cooperation of the first ring 30 and the second ring 31. The second ring 31 is arranged on the inner wall of the first ring 30, and one end face of the second ring 31 is flush with the end face of the first ring 30. The cooperation of the two rings makes it easy for people to identify the direction and is simple to operate. The two rings play different functions: the first ring 30 plays the role of connection and fixation, and the second ring 31 plays the role of sealing.

[0036] In some embodiments, a sealing ring is also included, which is arranged between the closure 3 and the probe seat 1 to increase the sealing performance, and the sealing ring is in contact with the second ring 31.

[0037] Specifically, the sealing ring effectively prevents dust, moisture, and other impurities from entering the clamping space between the sealing member 3 and the probe seat 1, protecting internal components and improving the reliability and durability of the device. The sealing ring creates a uniform pressure distribution between the sealing member 3 and the probe seat 1, ensuring a tight and stable connection and reducing direct friction between them. The sealing ring can be made of materials such as rubber or silicone. Through elastic deformation, the sealing ring prevents fine dust from entering the clamping space, affecting the magnetic attraction of the components and the cleanliness of the probe surface, and also prevents moisture intrusion, thus preventing internal metal components from rusting.

[0038] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the first ring 30 is provided with anti-slip texture, and the outer surface of the first ring 30 is provided with a plurality of protrusions, which are arranged in a triangle to indicate the direction of rotation.

[0039] Specifically, the anti-slip texture significantly increases the friction between the operator and the first ring 30, preventing slippage due to wetness during operation and ensuring operational stability and safety. Multiple protrusions arranged in a triangular pattern visually indicate the direction of rotation, helping operators quickly identify tightening and loosening directions, reducing errors and improving work efficiency. The triangular array of protrusions refers to multiple rows of protrusions arranged circumferentially, with one protrusion in the first row, and the number of protrusions increasing sequentially from the second row. The arrangement direction is the width of the anti-slip texture, with the apex of the triangle pointing in the direction of rotation. The protrusions provide tactile feedback, allowing the operator to determine the direction of rotation by touch. This eliminates the need for visual judgment, reducing errors. The anti-slip texture uses a full-circumference distributed diamond pattern or vertical stripes, with a depth of 1-2 mm to increase friction between the glove and the first ring 30.

[0040] In some embodiments, a transparent window is provided on the outer surface of the first ring 30, which is used to observe the position of the magnetic component 4 in the clamping space.

[0041] Specifically, the transparent window allows the operator to visually observe the position of the magnetic component 4 within the clamping space, ensuring that the magnetic component 4 is correctly installed and in the appropriate position, thus improving the accuracy and reliability of the operation. It facilitates checking the position of the magnetic component 4 without disassembling the sealing component 3, reducing workload and minimizing interference from disassembling the sealing component 3 on the position of the magnetic component 4. Multiple transparent windows are provided on the outer surface of the first ring 30, allowing for observation of the position of the magnetic component 4 within the clamping space from different angles, providing a more comprehensive field of view.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first end of the probe 2 is a spherical protrusion, and a wear indicator mark is provided on the probe 2.

[0043] Specifically, the spherical protrusion concentrates the pressure at the contact point, resulting in a tighter contact between probe 2 and the terminal block, preventing incomplete connections caused by poor contact. The spherical protrusion design also reduces the contact area, lowers contact resistance, and improves conductivity. The curvature of the spherical protrusion surface allows for automatic centering after insertion.

[0044] A wear indicator is provided on probe 2. When probe 2 wears to a certain extent, the indicator will appear, reminding the operator to replace probe 2 in time. This effectively avoids poor contact caused by probe 2 wear and extends the service life of probe 2. The wear indicator can be a color coated on the probe surface or a scale line at a preset length on the probe. When the probe wears to the marked color or scale line, it indicates that the probe should be replaced.

[0045] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0046] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0047] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0049] In this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0050] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Any changes, modifications, substitutions and variations made to the above embodiments by those skilled in the art are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks, characterized in that, include: A probe holder, wherein multiple probes are arranged at the end of the probe holder along the axial direction, the first end of the probe protrudes from the end of the probe holder, the second end of the probe is connected to the lead cable, and the probe holder is provided with external threads in the circumferential direction; A closure member is threadedly connected to the probe seat, and a clamping space is formed between the closure member and the probe seat; The positioning mechanism includes a magnetic component and multiple latching components. The multiple latching components are arranged in the circumferential direction of the probe base. The latching components are arranged one-to-one with the positioning holes on the side of the terminal block. The latching components enter the positioning holes to fix the probe base. The magnetic component is arranged in the clamping space to magnetically attract and fix the probe base and the terminal block.

2. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the latching member away from the probe base is provided with a barb, at least part of which enters the positioning hole and hooks onto its hole wall.

3. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a sheath, which is fitted over the first end of the probe and is slidably connected to the probe seat to change the exposed length of the probe.

4. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 3, characterized in that, A spring is provided at one end of the sheath adjacent to the probe base, and the spring is connected to the probe base to push the sheath away from the probe base.

5. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe holder includes a first cylinder and a second cylinder that are coaxial. The first cylinder and the second cylinder are joined together in the axial direction. The diameter of the first cylinder is larger than the diameter of the second cylinder to form a stepped boss. The first cylinder is provided with an external thread in the circumferential direction.

6. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 5, characterized in that, The closure includes a first ring and a second ring, the diameter of the first ring being larger than the diameter of the second ring, and the inner wall of the first ring being provided with an internal thread to mate with the external thread of the first cylinder.

7. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a sealing ring, which is arranged between the closure and the probe seat to increase the sealing performance, and the sealing ring is in contact with the second ring.

8. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 6, characterized in that, The outer surface of the first ring is provided with anti-slip texture, and the outer surface of the first ring is provided with multiple protrusions, which are arranged in a triangle to indicate the direction of rotation.

9. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 6, characterized in that, A transparent window is provided on the outer surface of the first ring, which is used to observe the position of the magnetic component within the clamping space.

10. The device for quick connection of mining terminal blocks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first end of the probe is a spherical protrusion, and a wear indicator mark is provided on the probe.

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