Magnetic Terminal Block for Rapid Lug Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Connecting and disconnecting hundreds of lug terminals to a terminal block is a time-consuming process, limiting the efficiency of testing electronic devices and extending the time required to test multiple devices.

Innovation Solution

A terminal block design utilizing magnets to facilitate quick and intuitive connection and disconnection of lug terminals, featuring a movable ferromagnetic object and a second ferromagnetic object that magnetically attracts the first object towards an electrical contact, allowing for secure yet easy insertion and removal of lug terminals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional terminal blocks are used to connect lug terminals, then secure electrical connection is achieved, but connection and disconnection becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connection securityVSAvoidconnection and disconnection time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, or bayonet connectors) with a magnetic field-based system. Ferromagnetic objects embedded in the terminal block create magnetic attraction forces that securely hold the lug terminals in place during testing, yet allow for easy removal when the magnetic force is deactivated or overcome, thus achieving both secure connection and quick disconnection without mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, or presence) to control the connection state. By varying the magnetic field parameters, the terminal block can transition between holding the lug terminal securely and releasing it for quick removal, enabling rapid connection and disconnection while maintaining reliable electrical contact during the test period

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If lug terminals are securely fixed to terminal block, then connection reliability is improved, but disconnection speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidtesting throughput

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field-based retention system replaces mechanical fixing mechanisms, allowing for both secure holding during testing and rapid release when needed. The magnetic force provides stable connection reliability during the test period, while the ability to quickly deactivate or overcome the magnetic field enables fast disconnection, thereby improving overall testing throughput without sacrificing connection stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If quick release mechanism is added to terminal block, then disconnection speed is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection speedVSAvoidterminal block structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By replacing complex mechanical quick-release mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system, the patent achieves rapid connection and disconnection without adding mechanical complexity. The magnetic field provides the necessary holding force during testing, and its controlled deactivation or overcoming enables quick release, thereby improving connection speed while maintaining relatively simple terminal block structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables rapid and secure connection and disconnection of lug terminals, significantly reducing the time required for testing multiple devices by simplifying the process and improving testing efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a second ferromagnetic object is configured to magnetically attract the movable first ferromagnetic object in a direction toward the electrical contact

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS9570844B1Lug terminals block for quick connection and disconnection

Publication Date: 2017.02.14 LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP

AI summary

A terminal block is disclosed. The terminal block includes a body that forms a chamber and an opening configured to facilitate passage of a lug terminal from an exterior environment into the chamber. A movable first ferromagnetic object is positioned in the chamber. An electrical contact is exposed to the chamber, and a second ferromagnetic object is configured to magnetically attract the movable first ferromagnetic object in a direction toward the electrical contact.