Tool-free Conductor Connection Device with Self-Actuating Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conductor connection devices are either bulky due to movable levers or require tools for easy use, compromising ergonomics and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A conductor connection device featuring deformable return and clamping means with a fixed and movable part, an actuator member, and coupling mechanisms that allow for translational and rotational movement to securely connect conductors without the need for tools, ensuring ergonomic, reliable, and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a movable lever is used to connect the conductor, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the movable lever component from the connection device. Instead, it uses a deformable return and clamping means that can be directly actuated by the conductor insertion itself, extracting the unnecessary moving parts while maintaining the clamping function.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is designed so that the conductor insertion automatically actuates the deformable return and clamping means to clamp the conductor. The system serves itself by using the insertion force to trigger the clamping action without requiring separate actuating mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a movable lever is used to connect the conductor, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to tool requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically clamps the conductor upon insertion through the deformable return and clamping means. The insertion force itself triggers the clamping action, making the operation tool-free and intuitive while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates the movable lever and associated trigger mechanisms that required tools for operation. The simplified design allows direct manual insertion to activate the clamping function, improving ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If trigger means with screen and notch are used to actuate the lever, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the screen, notch, and associated trigger means from the device. The deformable return and clamping means are directly actuated by conductor insertion, eliminating unnecessary components and simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the conductor insertion force itself to actuate the clamping mechanism, eliminating the need for separate trigger means. The insertion process automatically activates the deformable return and clamping means, reducing device complexity.
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 solution provides a compact, easy-to-use, and reliable connection mechanism that securely engages conductors without the need for tools, enhancing usability and reducing device size compared to prior art.
Implementation Method 1
deformable return and clamping means comprising a first fixed part and a second movable part
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection device (1) for a conductor (2) comprising: - return means (3) comprising a first part (3a) and a second part (3b), - a conductive sheet (4), the second part (3b) being movable relative to the conductive sheet (4) between open and closed positions, - an actuating member (5) movable relative to said conductive sheet (4) between first and second positions, - first coupling means (6), - second coupling means (7) disposed on the actuating member (5) complementary to the first coupling means (6) and movable relative to the first coupling means (6), coupled with the first coupling means (6) in the first position to immobilize the actuating member (5) and decoupled from the first coupling means (6) in the second position to release the actuating member (5).