Modular Terminal Matrix with Activatable Pins for Circuit Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current terminal block systems require external wires for interconnection, which are time-consuming and prone to user error, and existing optimally interconnectable terminal matrices offer unnecessary combinations, increasing manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular terminal matrix with activatable terminals and a microcontroller for circuit identification, allowing for efficient interconnection of endpoints without external wires, while reducing redundant combinations and enhancing scalability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all possible combinations are made available in the terminal matrix, then interconnection versatility is improved, but manufacturing and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal matrix is divided into modular terminal blocks that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each terminal block contains a subset of interconnection combinations, allowing the system to provide full versatility through modular assembly rather than requiring all combinations in each individual unit. This segmentation reduces manufacturing complexity and material costs while maintaining overall system adaptability.
2Area of stationary object
If space optimization is prioritized in terminal matrix arrangement, then area efficiency is improved, but connection logic becomes non-intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal matrix employs a three-dimensional arrangement where terminal blocks are stacked vertically or arranged in multiple layers. This vertical dimensionality allows connections to follow a logical sequential order within each layer while optimizing horizontal space utilization. The multi-layer structure enables intuitive routing paths without requiring excessive lateral space, resolving the conflict between compactness and logical arrangement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external wires are used for interconnection, then flexibility is improved, but preparation time and error potential increase
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal matrix integrates the interconnection function directly into the terminal block structure itself, merging what were previously separate components (terminals and connecting wires) into a unified integrated unit. The conductive pathways are built-in within the terminal blocks, eliminating the need for external wires and their associated preparation steps. This merging maintains interconnection flexibility while dramatically reducing preparation time and error potential.
4Ease of operation
If terminal block jumpers are used for interconnection, then ease of use is improved, but interconnection complexity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal matrix employs dynamically reconfigurable terminal blocks where the interconnection pathways can be programmatically adjusted and modified. Unlike static jumpers with fixed connection patterns, the system allows runtime reconfiguration of connection topologies through electronic control. This dynamic capability provides both the ease of use associated with simple jumper mechanisms and the versatility of complex programmable interconnections.
Data Source
AI summary
An optimally interconnected matrix of endpoints involves one or more conductive lanes of a substrate to be incorporated within a housing, with a plurality of conductive blocks positioned transverse to the conductive lanes. Any number of endpoints can be connected to any end of the conductive blocks. The endpoints can be interconnected by activating individual depressible terminals of the conductive lanes. Each depressible terminal is positioned above a conductive block, and activating a depressible terminals allows an electrical contact to be established between the corresponding conductive lane and the corresponding conductive block. The depressible terminals can be activated by extending a conductive or nonconductive pin through individual apertures of the housing which are positioned over the depressible terminals.