Interchangeable Electrical Connector Module With Actuation Button

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing electrical switching devices require multiple variants to accommodate different connection types, leading to increased manufacturing complexity and costs due to the need for various connection terminals, which is not industrially satisfactory.

Innovation Solution

An interchangeable connection module with a deformable elastic holding blade and an actuation button that allows for easy connection and disconnection of electrical connections to the switching device, featuring a locking mechanism that simplifies the process without requiring complex tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connection terminal variants are used to accommodate different connection types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different connection typesVSAvoidnumber of device variants

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection module is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple connection types (wired conductors, open lugs, closed lugs, other connectors) through a single standardized device variant. The module integrates various connection terminals into one interchangeable component that can be attached to the switching device in different configurations, eliminating the need for multiple device variants while maintaining adaptability to different connection requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is divided into separate modular components: the switching device body remains standardized, while the connection module is a detachable segment that can be configured in different ways. This segmentation allows the main device to remain simple and standardized, while the modular connection module provides the necessary variety and adaptability through its interchangeable nature and different attachment configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If wired conductors with various terminations are used for connection, then connection versatility is improved, but the number of connection terminal variants required increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection versatilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connection module serves as a universal adapter that can interface with multiple types of electrical connections (bare cables, open lugs, closed lugs, and other connector types) through a single standardized design. This multi-functional module eliminates the need for manufacturers to produce multiple variants of connection terminals for different wire types, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining comprehensive connection versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection module acts as an intermediary component between the switching device and various electrical connections. Rather than requiring the switching device itself to have multiple connection terminal variants, the modular intermediate component provides the necessary adaptability, allowing a single standardized switching device design to work with diverse connection types through the interchangeable module

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 greater versatility and flexibility in assembly, reduces manufacturing complexity by allowing a standardized device with interchangeable modules, and ensures secure mechanical connections, enhancing usability and reducing the risk of accidental disconnections.

Implementation Method 1

at least one elastic holding blade deformable between a depressed position and a released position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a locking device capable of cooperating with a locking interface of the device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical locking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP3487006B1Electrical system comprising an electrical apparatus and an interchangeable connector module

Publication Date: 2020.10.14 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS

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AI summary

This interchangeable connection module for electrically connecting an electrical switching device (1) to an electrical installation comprises a connecting piece and an actuating button (23). The button (23) is movable by translation between a rest position and a pressed position to move a corresponding deformable elastic blade (12) to its pressed position when the module (2) is connected to the device (1) and the button (23) is moved to its pressed position. The connection module (2) includes a locking device (24) adapted to cooperate with a locking interface of the device (1), this locking device being actuated by means of the button (23).