Arcuate Terminal Connector Layout for Close Wall Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wall-mounted devices face issues with wire management due to elongated openings and linear terminal blocks, leading to excess wire bunching and an aesthetically unattractive, cumbersome connection process.
Innovation Solution
A wall-mounted device design featuring an arcuate terminal block with equidistantly positioned terminals and a matching opening shape, allowing the same length of wire to connect to each terminal, and tool-free, spring-secured connections that prevent wire bunching and simplify the attachment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If elongated rectangular openings and linear terminal blocks are used, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but excess wire bunches up and prevents close mounting to the wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by replacing the traditional linear terminal block arrangement with an arcuate (curved) configuration. The terminal block is positioned on an arc centered at the opening, and terminals are distributed along this arc, creating a curved wire routing path that eliminates wire bunching and enables close wall mounting while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear terminal block arrangement to a two-dimensional arcuate distribution. By positioning terminals along a curved path rather than a straight line, the design adds spatial dimensionality to the wire routing, allowing wires to radiate outward from the opening without overlapping or bunching
2Reliability
If screw connectors are used for terminal connections, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the attachment process is cumbersome and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through push-in terminal connectors that automatically secure wires without requiring external tools. The terminals feature spring-loaded or clamp-based mechanisms that grip the wire firmly upon insertion, providing reliable electrical connection and mechanical retention while eliminating the need for screwdrivers or other attachment tools
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical screw-based fastening system with a simplified push-in connector system. This substitution eliminates the rotational mechanical action of screw tightening while maintaining secure wire retention through alternative mechanical principles such as spring pressure or snap-fit clamps
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables closer wall mounting and a more orderly wire arrangement, reducing excess wire and simplifying the connection process, resulting in a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing installation.
Implementation Method 1
tool-free, spring-secured connections that prevent wire bunching and simplify the attachment process
Data Source
AI summary
A wall mounted device includes a housing having a rear surface that is intended to face a wall to which the device is to be mounted. The housing also has an interior portion and an opening formed therein to allow wires from the wall to pass therethrough for communication with the interior housing. The opening has a center point. At least one terminal block may be disposed in the interior portion of the housing and includes a plurality of terminals that are configured to engage a wire to form an electrical connection. Each of the plurality of terminals can be located equidistant from a point within the opening such that the lengths of wire in the housing are reduced.