Bus Module Bridge Connector With Clamping Springs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bridge connector arrangements for control modules in automated buildings require separate mechanical couplings for stabilization and alignment, in addition to electrical connections, which can be complex and tool-dependent.
Innovation Solution
A bridge connector arrangement with clamping spring means that manually engage and disengage male bridging contacts with female terminals, combined with tongue and groove guide projections for mechanical stabilization, and U-shaped release members to facilitate tool-free, reliable electrical and mechanical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If separate mechanical couplings and operating latch means are used for stabilization and alignment, then mechanical stability is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection function and mechanical stabilization function into a single integrated bridge connector assembly. The bridge member with clamping springs provides both electrical contact and mechanical coupling, eliminating the need for separate mechanical couplings and operating latch means, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining mechanical stability
2Reliability
If separate operating latch or coupling means are used for mechanical coupling, then mechanical connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to tool-dependent installation
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge connector is designed with self-aligning features including guide projections that fit into guide holes on the modules, and self-clamping features with spring-loaded clamping arms that automatically engage with the modules. This eliminates the need for separate operating latch means and tool-dependent installation, allowing the connector to be easily installed and secured by hand while maintaining reliable mechanical connection
3Reliability
If pin and socket contacts or bus slides are used for electrical connection, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the electrical contact function directly into the bridge member structure, where the bridge member itself carries the electrical contacts that engage with the modules. This eliminates the need for separate pin and socket contacts or bus slides, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connection through the spring-loaded clamping 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
Provides a simple, tool-free, and reliable method for both electrical and mechanical connection between control modules, ensuring stable alignment and easy disengagement without the need for additional coupling means.
Implementation Method 1
clamping spring means which, when the bridge body is in the engaged position relative to a pair of modules, clamp the male bridging contacts carried by the bridge body into electrical engagement with the stationary contacts
Implementation Method 2
release members that are manually swingable about pivot cam means provided on the leg portions
Implementation Method 3
release members that are manually swingable about pivot cam means provided on the leg portions, thereby displace the bridge member from the engaged position toward the disengaged position
Data Source
AI summary
A bridge connector arrangement includes a bridge member moveable between engaged and disengaged positions relative to a pair of adjacent electrical modules, thereby to connect and disconnect rows of female terminals on the modules, The bridge member carries a plurality of male bridging contacts that extend within the female terminals when the bridge member is in the engaged position, whereupon the male bridging contacts are biased by clamping springs into electrical engagement with stationary wall contacts mounted in the female terminals. Release members carried by the bridge member are operable both to release the clamping springs from the male contacts, and to displace the bridge member toward the disengaged position relative to the modules. The bridge member and the modules include a tongue and groove guide arrangement, thereby to fasten both modules together mechanically.