Modular Distribution Assembly Offset Terminals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular electrical distribution assemblies face challenges in cooperating effectively with distribution combs, particularly in accommodating devices of varying widths and in allowing for efficient transplanting of terminals, due to misalignment and offset issues.

Innovation Solution

The proposed distribution assembly design includes devices with specific terminal configurations, such as double insertion terminals with lyre-shaped clamps and C-shaped springs, and additional orifices arranged with precise offsets to accommodate devices of 0.5 or 1 module widths, enabling compatibility with conventional combs and allowing for flexible arrangement and transplanting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If devices with width of 0.5 modules are introduced into the modular distribution assembly, then the versatility and adaptability of the assembly is improved, but the alignment with conventional combs having 1 module pitch becomes problematic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate devices of different widthsVSAvoidalignment precision with comb teeth
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a second dimension of offset positioning in addition to the standard horizontal arrangement. Devices are positioned with both a left-right offset (0.25 module from the nearest side face) and a front-back offset relative to the comb teeth. This dimensional approach allows 0.5 module devices to coexist with 1 module devices while maintaining proper alignment with the comb teeth, as the offset positioning creates staggered terminal arrangements that accommodate different device widths without interfering with comb insertion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional orifices are added to each device to provide access to extra terminals, then the transplanting capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal transplanting capabilityVSAvoidnumber of orifices and terminals
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each device is equipped with a universal terminal configuration comprising pairs of terminals with associated orifices. The first pair of terminals (with first orifices) provides standard comb connection, while the second pair of terminals (with second orifices) enables transplanting operations. This multi-functional terminal design allows the same device structure to serve both standard distribution and flexible reconfiguration purposes, eliminating the need for different device types for different functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If devices are arranged with offset positioning relative to the comb teeth, then the compatibility with various device widths is improved, but the installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different device widthsVSAvoidinstallation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The offset positioning of terminals and orifices is pre-configured during device manufacturing rather than requiring adjustment during installation. Devices are factory-prepared with terminals positioned at specific offsets (0.25 module from side faces, 0.5 module spacing between pairs) to ensure compatibility with the comb structure. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex field adjustments and simplifies installation, as devices can be directly mounted on the comb without additional positioning operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP1903647B2Distribution assembly comprising electrical appliances in modular format
Publication Date: 2017.07.19 LEGRAND FRANCE SA
  • EP1903647B2 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP1903647B2 patent drawingFigure 4
  • EP1903647B2 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The assembly has orifices (22A, 22B) aligned along a left-right direction. The orifices are arranged opposite to both sides of main sides (12) such that one of the sides is arranged against the other side except parallelepiped shaped single-pole, two-pole modular breakers (10, 54) having 1 module width, remote from signaling auxiliaries (52, 53, 55) with 0.5 module width if a row is formed with the breakers. Horizontal distribution combs (40, 41) are placed in the row, and the breakers receive teeth (43) in the orifices that provide access to terminals at left and right, respectively.