Fuse Base Terminal Connection Assembly with Universal Fastener Support

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection assemblies for fuse base connection terminals only allow users to choose between using a nut or a bolt for connection, limiting flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A connection assembly featuring a base with a connection terminal and a support piece that can accommodate either a nut or a bolt, with a hexagonal accommodation groove and through hole, allowing for secure and flexible attachment options.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a nut or bolt is directly connected to the connection terminal, then the connection is secure, but the user cannot choose between different connection methods

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection method choiceVSAvoidconnection assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection assembly is divided into separate functional components: a support piece with accommodation groove for receiving fasteners, and a connection terminal with connection hole. This segmentation allows the support piece to be designed as a universal interface that can accommodate different fastener types (nuts or bolts) while maintaining a simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support piece with accommodation groove serves multiple functions: it can receive and secure either a nut or a bolt, providing universal compatibility. The accommodation groove is designed with sufficient space and appropriate geometry to accommodate different fastener types, enabling users to choose their preferred connection method without requiring different connection assemblies.

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

2Ease of operation

If a support piece with accommodation groove is added to enable choice between nut and bolt, then user flexibility is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser choice flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support piece combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, contains the accommodation groove for fastener reception, and interfaces with the connection terminal. By merging these functions into one integrated piece, the design avoids the need for separate mounting brackets, fastener holders, and connection interfaces, thereby simplifying the overall structure while maintaining user flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The accommodation groove is designed to self-accommodate different fastener types through its geometric design. The groove provides sufficient space and appropriate contours that naturally guide and secure both nuts and bolts without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms or complex positioning features, enabling user choice while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3125268B1Connection assembly for fuse base connection terminal
Publication Date: 2018.12.12 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • EP3125268B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3125268B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3125268B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A connection assembly for a fuse base connection terminal (2) comprises a base (1) and a connection terminal (2) arranged on the base (1). A connection hole (21) is arranged on the connection terminal (2). The connection assembly also comprises a support piece (3) plugged into the connection terminal (2). The support piece (3) comprises an accommodation groove (31) used for accommodating a nut (4) or a bolt (5). A side surface of the accommodation groove (31) is provided with an opening (32). A bottom of the accommodation groove (31) is provided with a through hole (37). A position corresponding to the support piece (3) on the base (1) is provided with a bolt mounting hole (11). The bolt mounting hole (11), the connection hole (21) and the through hole (37) are on the same axis. Because the support piece (3) that can be plugged into the connection terminal (2) is arranged and the nut (4) or the bolt (5) can be put into the support piece (3), a user is free to choose to put the nut (4) or the bolt (5) into the support piece (3) to connect of the connection terminal (2) to a cable.