Compression Spring Terminal with Dual Contact Zones

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing direct plug-in compression spring terminals struggle to securely hold and contact both rigid solid conductors and flexible, fine-wire stranded conductors, particularly during insertion and under vibration.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates a second contact zone on the busbar, spaced from the first contact zone, with a cutout or recess to guide and center the conductor strands, and a clamping spring mechanism with multiple contact zones arranged in a triangular configuration to ensure secure clamping and contact across various conductor types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single contact zone is used on the busbar, then the structure is simple, but both rigid solid conductors and flexible stranded conductors cannot be securely held and contacted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different conductor typesVSAvoidnumber of contact zones
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The busbar is divided into multiple contact zones (first contact zone and second contact zone) spaced at specific distances. The first contact zone contacts the conductor end, while the second contact zone contacts the conductor middle section, allowing secure holding of both rigid solid conductors and flexible stranded conductors through distributed contact points

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension by spacing contact zones at specific distances along the busbar length. This dimensional arrangement allows the conductor to be engaged at multiple positions, providing mechanical fixation and electrical contact for various conductor types without increasing structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If the busbar is designed for secure clamping, then conductor holding is reliable, but insertion ease is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconductor holding securityVSAvoidinsertion ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The busbar is designed with a ramp at the insertion end that preliminarily guides and centers the conductor before it reaches the contact zones. This preliminary action facilitates easy insertion while ensuring the conductor is properly positioned for secure clamping at the contact zones

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the busbar are given different local qualities: the insertion end has a ramp for guiding, the contact zones have specific geometries for secure clamping, and the spaces between provide appropriate clearance. This localized design ensures both easy insertion and reliable holding

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Length of stationary object

If contact zones are spaced closer together, then the terminal size is reduced, but conductor centering and bundling effectiveness is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebusbar lengthVSAvoidconductor centering precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies optimal spacing parameters between contact zones (at least 2-5 mm distance) that balance terminal size reduction with conductor centering effectiveness. This parameter optimization ensures strands are properly bundled and centered while maintaining a compact terminal design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution allows for easy and secure insertion of both rigid and flexible conductors, maintaining contact and mechanical fixation even under vibration, ensuring reliable electrical and mechanical connection.

Implementation Method 1

a clamping spring (3), which is intended for clamping the electrical conductor end (5) inserted into the direct plug-in compression spring terminal (1)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2989685B1Direct plug-in compression spring terminal
Publication Date: 2019.09.04 WEIDMULLER INTERFACE GMBH & CO
  • EP2989685B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP2989685B1 patent drawingFigure 1c~1d
  • EP2989685B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b

AI summary

The present invention relates to a direct plug-in compression spring terminal, in particular for connecting a braided conductor end, which direct plug-in compression spring terminal comprises a clamping cage with a busbar, and also a clamping spring for clamping an electrical conductor end which is inserted into the direct plug-in compression spring terminal, wherein at least a first contact zone for making electrical contact and a second contact zone for making contact with and guiding the electrical conductor end are provided on the busbar, wherein the second contact zone is at a distance from the first contact zone and is arranged behind the first contact zone in a conductor insertion direction of the electrical conductor end.