Test and Connection Apparatus with Bi-Directional Plugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test and connection devices for electrical conductors lack versatility in measurement and testing processes, as they often require structural adjustments and have limited mounting options, which complicates the connection and disconnection of test devices without increasing the device's volume or risking incorrect connections.
Innovation Solution
A test and connection device arrangement with contact lugs on both the upper and underside, allowing the test device to be plugged in from either direction without structural adjustments, and featuring a removable plug-in element for secure connection and tamper protection, along with attachable holders for versatile mounting on rails and walls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the test device can only be plugged in from one side, then the connection structure is simple, but the versatility and adaptability of the arrangement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is designed with asymmetric contact lug arrangements - contact lugs are positioned on both the upper and lower sides of the housing, allowing the test device to be connected from either direction. This asymmetric design enables versatile connection options without requiring symmetric structural adjustments throughout the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is designed with universal functionality to accept test device connections from multiple directions (upper and lower sides). The parallel arrangement of contact lugs and the removable plug-in element enable the same connection device to serve multiple connection configurations without requiring separate devices or complex structural adjustments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If structural adjustments are made to accommodate test device connection, then connection versatility improves, but the volume of the connection device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is segmented into functional modules - the housing with contact lugs, the removable plug-in element, and the mounting holders. This segmentation allows the contact lugs to be arranged in parallel on both sides of the housing without requiring the entire device volume to increase, as each segment serves its specific function efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing volume in one dimension to accommodate multi-directional connections, the contact lugs are arranged in another dimension (parallel arrangement on upper and lower sides of the housing). This dimensional approach allows versatile connection options while maintaining a compact overall device volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the plug-in element is easily removable, then adaptability improves, but protection against manipulation and incorrect connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in element features dynamic characteristics - it can be easily inserted and removed during normal operation to allow connection and disconnection of the test device. However, once connected, the latching mechanism provides stable locking that prevents accidental or unauthorized manipulation, balancing ease of use with security.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable plug-in element acts as an intermediary between the connection device and the test device. It facilitates easy connection and disconnection while its latching mechanism provides protection against manipulation. The plug-in element mediates between the need for ease of operation and the need for security.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a test and connection apparatus arrangement, having a test apparatus, and having a connection apparatus for connecting electrical conductors, wherein the test apparatus can be plugged into the connection apparatus and, in the process, disconnects an electrical connection between two contact lugs which are electrically in contact, and wherein the test apparatus can be plugged into the connection apparatus from a top face of the connection apparatus and from a bottom face of the connection apparatus. The present invention also relates to a connection apparatus which is designed for connecting electrical conductors.