Automatic Connection Terminal Using Conductor-Actuated Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical devices require the use of tools to connect electrical conductors, leading to cumbersome and unreliable connections.
Innovation Solution
An electrical apparatus with a retaining element that allows for tool-free connection of electrical conductors by pressing on an actuating part, causing the pusher to release the spring blade, resulting in automatic connection when the conductor is correctly inserted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tool is used to move the retaining element, then the connection operation can be performed, but the connection process becomes cumbersome and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductor itself serves as the actuating mechanism. When the conductor is inserted into the insertion conduit, it directly pushes the actuating part of the retaining element, causing the retaining part to release the pusher. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external tools and ensures reliable connection through the inherent mechanical interaction between the conductor and the retaining element.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating part of the retaining element acts as an intermediary between the inserted conductor and the pusher mechanism. The conductor pushes the actuating part, which in turn causes the retaining part to release the pusher, allowing the spring blade to close the insertion conduit. This intermediary mechanism translates the simple insertion action into the complex sequence of releases needed for reliable connection.
2Productivity
If two simultaneous actions are required (moving retaining element with tool and inserting conductor), then connection can be achieved, but the operation becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the retaining element actuation function with the conductor insertion function. The same action of inserting the conductor into the insertion conduit simultaneously performs both tasks: it pushes the actuating part to release the retaining mechanism while also establishing the electrical connection. This combining of functions eliminates the need for separate tool operation and conductor insertion steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining element is pre-configured with its actuating part accessible through the insertion conduit, positioned such that the natural insertion path of the conductor will automatically engage and push the actuating part. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the correct sequence of events occurs automatically during insertion, without requiring the operator to perform separate actions.
3Extent of automation
If the retaining element is a separate element from the spring blade, then the mechanism can function, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element is designed as a multi-functional component that combines several functions: it holds the pusher in the depressed position through its retaining part, provides an accessible actuating part through the insertion conduit, and enables automatic release when the conductor is inserted. This universal design allows a single element to perform multiple critical functions in the connection mechanism.
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
The connection process is quick, simple, and reliable, ensuring a secure electrical connection without the need for tools.
Implementation Method 1
an automatic connection terminal with a spring blade
Implementation Method 2
a pusher movable between two stable positions: a raised position in which it leaves free the spring blade which closes said insertion conduit and a depressed position in which it forces the spring blade to open said insertion conduit
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical device (100) comprising a housing (110) provided with an insertion conduit (111) for an electrical conductor (1) and housing an electrical connection system (120) associated with said insertion conduit, this electrical connection system comprising: - an automatic spring-loaded terminal (140), said insertion conduit providing access to said automatic terminal, - a push button (130) movable between two stable positions: a raised position in which it frees the spring-loaded blade that closes said insertion conduit and a depressed position in which it forces the spring-loaded blade to open said insertion conduit, and - a movable retaining element (160) comprising a retaining portion (161) movable between a retaining position in which this retaining portion cooperates with the push button to, by itself,to maintain it in its depressed position and a release position in which said retaining part is released from its cooperation with the pusher so that the latter assumes its raised position. According to the invention, the retaining element comprises an actuating part (162) accessible via said electrical conductor insertion conduit.