Interchangeable Electrical Terminal Assembly for 90° and 180° Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electrical terminal sets are limited by fixed configurations, leading to inefficiencies, increased inventory, complex installations, and high costs due to complex mechanical components or separate manufacturing processes for 90° and 180° terminals, and result in material waste and high production costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical terminal set with a common base element for both 90° and 180° connections, using interchangeable terminals with different fixation means, allowing for efficient production and cost-effective manufacturing, and featuring interchangeable terminals made from sheet metal and forged metal components for enhanced conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed configuration terminal sets are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to various installation requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal set is divided into a base element and interchangeable terminal units. The base element remains fixed and simple to manufacture, while the terminal units can be swapped to provide different connection angles (90°, 180°, etc.). This segmentation allows the base to be manufactured once using simple processes, while adaptability is achieved through the interchangeable terminal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The base element is designed with universal connection means that can accommodate multiple types of terminal units. A single base element can work with different terminal configurations, making the base element multi-functional and reducing the need for multiple specialized base designs, thereby simplifying manufacturing while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct terminal sets are used for different connection angles, then adaptability improves, but inventory requirements and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single base element with universal connection means can accommodate multiple terminal units with different connection angles. Instead of maintaining separate terminal sets for 90°, 180°, and other angles, the universal base can work with any terminal type, reducing inventory requirements and simplifying installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal configuration is made dynamic through interchangeability. Rather than fixed terminal sets, the system allows terminals to be changed based on installation requirements. This dynamic approach enables adaptability without requiring multiple fixed configurations to be stored and managed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable or rotatable terminals are introduced, then adaptability improves, but mechanical complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the terminal adjustable or rotatable (which would require complex mechanical components), the system segments the terminal into a replaceable unit. The terminal can be swapped to achieve different orientations without requiring adjustment mechanisms, rotatable joints, or additional tools, thereby maintaining simplicity while providing adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable terminals are used, then orientation flexibility improves, but mechanical stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is segmented into a replaceable unit that maintains full mechanical stability when installed. Each terminal unit is designed to be securely attached to the base element, providing stable and reliable connections. The segmentation allows different terminal types to be used for different orientations without compromising the mechanical integrity of any individual terminal installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular electrical terminal set includes a base element equipped with connection means, a 90° terminal, and a 180° terminal. The 90° terminal is provided with fixation means that enable its attachment to the connection means of the base element, thereby forming a 90° connection terminal. Similarly, the 180° terminal is equipped with fixation means for attachment to the connection means of the base element, resulting in a 180° connection terminal. This configuration allows for versatile electrical connections by providing options for both 90° and 180° terminal orientations, enhancing adaptability in various electrical setups.


