Comb-Structure PCB Adapter for Terminal Block Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection methods for field devices and control systems using terminal blocks are uncomfortable and inefficient, requiring individual electrical and mechanical connections to screw terminals.

Innovation Solution

A connection adapter with a printed circuit board featuring a comb-shaped line structure and an electrical connector interface, allowing for efficient connection using pre-assembled multi-pole cables and connectors, such as FLK, D-SUB, or Fujitsu FCN, which can be mechanically fixed to screw terminals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If individual connection lines are connected to screw terminals one by one, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and uncomfortable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the connection process into two segments: a first connection element with multiple connection lines and a second connection element with multiple screw terminals. By separating these elements and allowing the first element to be connected as a unit to the second element, the patent enables simultaneous connection of multiple lines while maintaining individual terminal reliability through screw fastening.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple individual connection lines into a single integrated first connection element that can be connected to multiple screw terminals simultaneously. This merging approach allows parallel connection of all lines during a single operation, eliminating the need for sequential individual connections while maintaining reliable electrical contact at each terminal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple individual connection lines are connected to terminal blocks, then electrical connectivity is established, but the overall system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidconnection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges multiple individual connection operations into a single integrated connection element that interfaces with multiple terminals simultaneously. This reduces the number of separate connection components and simplifies the overall connection system architecture while maintaining all necessary electrical pathways.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The first connection element is designed as a universal interface that can simultaneously connect to multiple screw terminals, serving multiple functions in a single component. This multi-functional design reduces the need for multiple specialized connection devices, thereby simplifying the overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If pre-assembled multi-pole cables with connectors are used, then connection efficiency is improved, but the cost of the connection system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection efficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the connection system into a reusable first connection element that can be attached to different multi-pole cables. This segmentation allows the expensive connector part to be shared across multiple cables, reducing the overall system cost while maintaining high connection efficiency through the reusable interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a design where the first connection element can be easily attached and detached, allowing the use of simpler, less expensive cable assemblies that can be replaced if needed, while the durable connector interface is reused. This approach reduces the cost of individual cable components while maintaining connection efficiency through the robust reusable connector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentEP3227975B1Connecting adapter for a connecting terminal assembly
Publication Date: 2019.04.10 PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3227975B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3227975B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3227975B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a connecting adapter (100) for a connecting terminal assembly, the connecting terminal assembly having a number of electrical connecting terminals. The connecting adapter comprises: a printed circuit board (101) with a comb-type conducting structure having a number of comb teeth (103), each comb tooth (103) having an electrical contact surface (105); and an electrical plug connector interface (107) for a plug connector, said electrical plug connector interface (107) having electrical terminals (109) which are electrically connected to the electrical contact surfaces (105) of the comb teeth (103). The electrical plug connector interface (107) is arranged on the printed circuit board (101).