Actuating Element Cover Seals Terminal Gap

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Solution Overview

Problem

Thin conductors can be easily inserted incorrectly into connection terminals, leading to limited or no electrical contact due to misalignment with the clamping spring, resulting in ineffective clamping.

Innovation Solution

An actuating element with a cover element extending laterally from the actuating finger, which overlaps the clamping leg and seals the gap between the clamping spring and the housing, preventing lateral insertion and ensuring correct conductor alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the conductor is inserted laterally past the clamping spring, then the insertion process becomes easier, but the conductor ends up misaligned and cannot be properly clamped

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of conductor insertionVSAvoidreliability of electrical contact

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cover element acts as an intermediary component between the conductor and the clamping spring. It guides the conductor laterally into the correct position while preventing it from passing too far laterally past the clamping spring, ensuring proper alignment for reliable electrical contact

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The cover element is designed to automatically guide the conductor into the correct position during insertion. The conductor itself performs the alignment action by engaging with the cover element's guiding surface, eliminating the need for additional alignment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If the gap between the clamping leg and housing is left open, then the device structure remains simple, but incorrect insertion of conductors cannot be prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of device structureVSAvoidprevention of incorrect insertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating element is segmented into two functional parts: the actuating finger for actuating the clamping spring and the cover element for guiding and sealing. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function effectively while maintaining overall structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cover element serves multiple functions: it seals the gap between the clamping leg and housing, guides the conductor during insertion, and prevents incorrect lateral insertion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3036797B1Actuating element and connecting terminal

Publication Date: 2019.03.13 PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO KG

Figure 1~3
Figure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to an actuating element (1) for actuating a clamping spring (8) of a connecting terminal, comprising: an actuating finger (2) which has an actuating surface (7) with which the actuating finger (2) presses onto a clamping limb (9) of the clamping spring (8) during actuation of the clamping spring (8); and a cover element (3) which forms an extension of the actuating finger (2) in the longitudinal direction of the actuating finger (2), the cover element (3) being laterally molded on the actuating finger (2).