Multi-Function Connection Terminal for Mixed Cable Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating devices for lighting systems require multiple terminals for different cable connections, limiting size and connectivity options due to the need for separate terminals for sensor, main power, and control cables, and cannot easily accommodate both cables with and without plug-in connectors.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a circuit board-mounted terminal that combines conductor connection terminals and plug-in connectors, allowing for connection of both types of cables using a single terminal, featuring a clamping spring mechanism and actuating element for secure fixing and easy connection/disconnection, and an extension module for increased connectivity options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate terminals are provided for different cable connections (sensor, main power, control cables), then each connection type can be securely connected, but the device size increases and the terminal structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate terminals (for sensor cables, main power cables, and control cables) into a single integrated terminal structure. This single terminal can accommodate different cable types through multiple connection points, reducing the overall device complexity while maintaining secure connections for all cable types.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal is designed with multi-functional capability to handle various cable connection types (sensor, main power, control) within a single structure. This universal design allows the terminal to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate dedicated terminals for each cable type.
2Reliability
If multiple separate terminals are used for different cable connections, then each connection can be optimized for its specific cable type, but the overall terminal size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate terminals into one compact integrated terminal that accommodates sensor cables, main power cables, and control cables. This consolidation reduces the total terminal size while maintaining secure connection capabilities for all cable types through shared structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal structure employs a nested arrangement where different connection points and cable access paths are integrated within a compact hierarchical structure. This allows multiple cable types to be connected in a space-efficient manner, with each cable type having its own connection point within the unified terminal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate terminals are provided for each cable type, then each terminal can be optimized for its specific function, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is designed as a universal multi-functional component that can connect sensor cables, main power cables, and control cables through multiple integrated connection points. This single versatile terminal replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate specialized terminals, reducing the total component count while maintaining adaptability to different cable types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functionally distinct terminals into one integrated component structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components while preserving the ability to connect different cable types through the unified terminal's multiple connection points.
4Volume of moving object
If the device is made flat or slim to meet design requirements, then the overall device size is reduced, but the terminal size and cable cross-section are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal design utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement within the flat device structure. Cable access and connection points are arranged in multiple layers and directions, allowing adequate cable cross-section accommodation while maintaining the device's overall slim profile. The terminal structure efficiently uses vertical and lateral space within the constrained form factor.
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 flexible and secure connection of various electrical cables, including both those with and without plug-in connectors, while reducing terminal size and increasing connectivity options, thereby enhancing the versatility and efficiency of lighting system operation.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one conductor connection terminal comprises a clamping spring for clamping the at least one electrical conductor
Implementation Method 2
the actuating element is pivotally or movably supported in the insulator housing and is configured to strike an actuating section of the clamping spring by pivoting or moving the actuating element
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an electronic device comprising a circuit board (9) and a terminal (3, 24, 44) mounted on the circuit board (9), wherein the terminal (3, 24, 44) comprises at least one conductor connection terminal (7a..7e, 25a..25e, 46a..46d) and an electrical connector and is configured to connect, to a pole of the circuit board (9), an electrical conductor (36a) connected to the at least one conductor connection terminal (7a..7e, 25a..25e, 46a..46d) and to connect, to the pole of the circuit board (9), at least one contact (18a, 39a..39c, 47a..47d) of a plug-in connector (19, 38, 49) connected to the electrical connector.