Grounding Terminal with Spring-Loaded Clamping Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grounding terminals are difficult to assemble and require multiple screws, nuts, and washers, leading to a risk of parts being lost or forgotten, especially in poorly accessible locations, and may struggle to maintain secure contact over time.
Innovation Solution
A grounding terminal design featuring an upper part with a curved or kinked base body and a lower part that deforms easily, connected via a hook and eyelet mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and adaptability to different pipe diameters with a clamping device that includes a spring for secure clamping and anti-twist prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple screws, nuts, and washers are used to connect grounding terminals, then the connection strength is improved, but the risk of parts being lost or forgotten increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening elements (screws, nuts, washers) into an integrated U-shaped body structure where the fastening elements are built-in and cannot be lost. The U-shaped body integrates the clamping function and fastening function into a single component, eliminating the need for separate fastening parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding terminal is divided into two main segments: the U-shaped body (first part) and the plate (second part). This segmentation allows the complex fastening mechanism to be distributed across two simple components rather than requiring multiple separate fastening elements.
2Reliability
If traditional grounding clamps are used, then the grounding function is achieved, but the assembly process becomes difficult in poorly accessible locations
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element automatically applies clamping force when the grounding terminal is assembled, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations or tools. The elastic element self-adjusts to maintain contact pressure, making the assembly process simpler and more reliable in hard-to-reach locations.
3Strength
If rigid grounding clamps are used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to different pipe diameters decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spring element that provides dynamic adaptability to the rigid U-shaped body. The spring allows the grounding terminal to adjust to different pipe diameters while maintaining constant contact pressure, combining the strength of rigid structures with the adaptability of elastic elements.
4Reliability
If complex fastening systems are used, then connection security is improved, but the risk of maintaining contact force over time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element continuously monitors and adjusts the contact force between the grounding terminal and the pipe. This elastic feedback mechanism ensures that contact pressure is maintained over time, compensating for any settling or thermal expansion/contraction of the pipe.
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 assembly, reduces the risk of part loss, ensures secure and adaptable grounding, and can absorb sudden high electrical currents without damage, while being cost-effective and easy to produce.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (15) which is arranged between the clamping base (12) and the clamping plate (14) presses the clamping plate (14) away from the clamping base (12)
Implementation Method 2
Grounding terminals are used, among other things, to equalize the potential of electrical installations in buildings. They are also used in lightning protection systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an earthing clamp (1) with an upper part (10) comprising a base body (11) and a clamping device (6) for at least one earthing conductor (5). The earthing clamp also has a lower part (30) which can be operatively connected to the upper part (10) via a first and a second operative connecting means (2, 3), wherein the upper part (10) and the lower part (30) enclose a receiving opening when operatively connected.