Grounding Clip Assembly With Spring Clamping for Fast Earthing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting a protective conductor to an earthing cable require multiple screw connections, which are time-consuming and complex, complicating the grounding process in industrial settings.
Innovation Solution
A connection arrangement featuring a clamping spring mechanism that allows for tool-free electrical connection of both the protective conductor and earthing cable, utilizing a conductive support element with clamping elements that secure the cables without screws, enabling quick and stable attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw connections are used to connect the protective conductor and grounding cable, then the electrical connection is reliable, but the assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw connection mechanism with a spring-based clamping mechanism. The spring element automatically clamps the grounding cable between its ends when the protective conductor is inserted, eliminating the need for manual screw assembly while maintaining reliable electrical contact through continuous spring pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is designed to automatically clamp the grounding cable in place through its inherent elastic force, without requiring manual intervention or additional fastening components. The spring's natural tendency to return to its original shape provides the clamping force needed to maintain a reliable electrical connection.
2Reliability
If screw connections are used to connect the protective conductor and grounding cable, then the electrical connection is secure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding clamp is divided into distinct functional segments: the support element for structural stability, the spring element for automatic clamping, and the cable routing features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex multi-step screw connection system is replaced with a simple spring-based automatic clamping mechanism. The spring's elastic properties provide the necessary clamping force without requiring threaded fasteners, washers, or multiple assembly steps, thereby reducing device complexity.
3Reliability
If a grounding block with U-shaped recess and claw is used, then the grounding cable can be secured, but two screw connections are required increasing assembly complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the screw connection requirement from the grounding cable securing mechanism. Instead of using a claw that must be actuated by screws, the design uses a spring element that inherently provides the securing force, removing the need for threaded fasteners entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element automatically secures the grounding cable through its elastic recovery force, without requiring external actuation by screws or other fastening mechanisms. The spring's natural properties enable it to maintain constant contact pressure and secure the cable in place.
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 simplifies the connection process, reducing assembly time and ensuring a reliable, secure electrical connection capable of handling high currents, thus improving efficiency and safety in industrial grounding applications.
Implementation Method 1
The clamping spring of the grounding cable clamping element exerts a spring force on the grounding cable in the clamped position of the grounding cable clamping element, which presses the grounding cable against the support element
Data Source
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AI summary
Earthing clamp (10) for electrically connecting a protective conductor (12) to an earthing cable (14), comprising an electrically conductive support element (16) that can be fixed to an object (53), a protective conductor clamping element (18, 68) for electrically connecting the protective conductor (12) to the support element (16), and an earthing cable clamping element (20) for electrically connecting the earthing cable (14) to the support element (16). The earthing cable clamping element (20) comprises a clamping spring (24) with a clamping leg (26), wherein, in a clamping position of the earthing cable clamping element (20), the earthing cable (14) is clamped between the support element (16) and the clamping leg (26).