Multi-terminal Block with Superimposed Quick Connect and Cage Screw Levels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional double connection terminals for electrical circuit breakers require two terminal cage screw busbars, lacking a quick insertion connection option for both cable and screw types, limiting flexibility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A multi-terminal block with two superimposed connecting levels, featuring a cage screw type connector for securing conductors and a quick connecting type connector using a sheet metal spring, resembling the number '5', which allows for independent connections without the screw extending through the second terminal block, facilitating easy access and secure pin busbar insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two terminal cage screw busbars are used for double connection terminals, then structural simplicity is maintained, but connection flexibility and ease of use deteriorate due to lack of quick insertion option
Solution Approach 1:
The second terminal block with quick connection type is partially disposed within the cage of the first terminal block. The second terminal block is nested inside the structural envelope of the first terminal block, allowing two different connection types to occupy overlapping spatial volumes. This nesting arrangement enables connection flexibility (both cage screw and quick connection types available) while containing the overall device complexity within a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical stacking arrangement where the second terminal block is positioned at a different vertical level (superimposed) relative to the first terminal block. This dimensional arrangement allows independent access to both connection types through different access paths, resolving the conflict between providing multiple connection options and maintaining structural simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If screw extends through both terminal blocks, then structural integrity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty accessing the second terminal block
Solution Approach 1:
The screw of the first terminal block is extracted from extending through the second terminal block. Instead, the second terminal block is designed to be self-supporting and partially disposed within the cage of the first terminal block without requiring the screw to penetrate it. This extraction allows easy access to the second terminal block for quick connections while the first terminal block's screw remains intact for securing cables.
3Device complexity
If second terminal block is fully external to first terminal block, then independence of connections is maintained, but device complexity increases due to larger overall structure
Solution Approach 1:
The second terminal block is partially disposed within the cage of the first terminal block, utilizing the existing structural envelope. This nesting reduces the overall device complexity and size while maintaining the independence of the two connection types through separate access paths and independent terminal blocks.
4Adaptability or versatility
If quick connection type is added to existing cage screw terminal, then connection versatility improves, but mechanical stress on housing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second terminal block with quick connection type is designed to be self-supporting, utilizing the cage of the first terminal block for structural support rather than transmitting loads to the housing. The second terminal block carries its own mechanical loads independently, eliminating additional stress on the housing while providing connection versatility.
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 quick and secure connections for both cable and screw types, enhancing usability and reducing mechanical stress on the device, while maintaining independent operation of the two connection levels.
Implementation Method 1
a quick connecting type conductor connector comprising a strip spring for securing a second conductor
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-terminal block for electric devices, comprising two superimposed connecting levels for conductors, which can be used independent of each other, the multi-terminal block comprising: a first terminal block comprising a cage screw type conductor connector which comprises a cage and a screw for use securing the a first conductor, wherein the first terminal block cooperates with a terminal; and a second terminal block comprising a quick connecting type conductor connector, wherein the quick connecting type conductor connector comprises a strip spring for securing a second conductor, wherein the screw does not extend through the second terminal block and wherein the second terminal block is partially disposed within the cage such that the second terminal block cooperates with the terminal.