Offset Terminal Block for Aviation Cable Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection devices combining terminal blocks and busbars face issues of space inefficiency, complexity in installation, and a high risk of Foreign Object Damage (FOD), particularly in the aviation sector, where disconnection of one cable can affect others and expose connections to damage or short circuits.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connection device featuring a terminal block with offset connection points for two cables, integrated with an insulator that extends beyond the block's height to prevent access and secure screws, reducing the risk of FOD and allowing individual cable disconnection without affecting others, while being compact and easy to install.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single screw is used to connect both cables to the busbar, then the connection structure is simple, but removing one cable requires disconnecting the other cable as well
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is segmented into two independent connection points on the terminal block, each with its own screw. This allows each cable to be connected and disconnected independently while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The terminal block acts as a common element that provides both connection points, balancing structural simplicity with operational independence.
2Ease of operation
If two separate connection points are provided on the terminal block, then individual cable disconnection is enabled, but the terminal block becomes wider and takes up more space
Solution Approach 1:
The two connection points are arranged in a compact configuration that utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently. Rather than simply widening the terminal block horizontally, the connection points are positioned to utilize vertical and depth dimensions as well, allowing individual cable access while maintaining a compact overall footprint.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional exposed electrical connections are used, then installation is straightforward, but the connections are vulnerable to FOD and short circuits from dropped tools
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator is designed with walls that extend beyond the terminal block height, creating a protective enclosure before any harmful event can occur. This preliminary protective structure prevents foreign objects from reaching the electrical connections and blocks dropped tools from causing short circuits, while still allowing straightforward installation of the entire assembly as a unit.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical connection device (100) including a terminal block (10) and busbar (12) assembly, the terminal block (10) including a first connection point (6) for receiving the lug (24) of a first cable and a second connection point (7) for receiving the lug (20) of a second cable. The second connection point (7) is adjacent to and offset from the first connection point (6). The connection points (6, 7) are positioned such that, when the two cables are connected substantially parallel to the axis, the second cable or the lug (20) thereof prevents access to the first connection point (6). The connection points (6, 7) are preferably offset horizontally and vertically. Preferably, a control cable is connected to the first connection point (6) and a power cable is connected to the second connection point (7).