Pivoting Locking Sleeve for FOD-Resistant Electrical Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection devices with terminal blocks and busbars require precise alignment and adjustment of cables, leading to potential voltage issues, damage from foreign objects, and increased risk of Foreign Object Damage (FOD), especially in applications where cable length and orientation must be accurately managed.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connection device featuring a terminal block with a locking sleeve that allows for translational and rotational movement of the terminal without adjustment, reducing the number of parts and incorporating anti-FOD features such as captive screws and insulators to minimize exposure and risk of damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If precise alignment and adjustment of cables is required for terminal block connections, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking sleeve is designed to pivot between an open position (allowing cable insertion from any orientation) and a closed locking position (securing the cable). This dynamic mechanism eliminates the need for precise pre-alignment during installation while maintaining secure electrical connection, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking sleeve is pre-configured with internal features (such as clamping surfaces and pivoting mechanism) that automatically engage and secure the cable once inserted. This preliminary preparation of the locking mechanism ensures reliable electrical connection without requiring complex alignment procedures during installation
2Manufacturing precision
If cable length must be precisely adjusted to achieve correct alignment, then connection precision is improved, but risk of cable damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting locking sleeve accommodates cables of varying lengths and orientations by adjusting its angular position during insertion. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for precise cable length adjustment, preventing cable stress and potential damage while maintaining secure electrical connection
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism changes its geometric parameters (angular orientation and internal clearance) to accommodate different cable lengths and orientations. This parameter adaptation allows precise electrical connection without requiring precise cable preparation, reducing the risk of cable damage
3Reliability
If multiple parts are used in electrical connection devices, then connection reliability is improved, but risk of foreign object damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking sleeve integrates multiple functions (cable retention, electrical contact, and mechanical locking) into a single unified component. This merging reduces the number of separate parts that could become loose or cause foreign object damage, while maintaining reliable electrical connection through the integrated design
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical connection device (100) including a terminal block (10) suitable for connecting to a lug of an electrical cable. The terminal block (10) comprises a locking sleeve (3) suitable for securing the lug so as to enable relative translation between the terminal block (10) and the lug. The sleeve (3) comprises a first portion (1) and a second portion (2), as well as a pivot element (13, 14) configured such that the first and second portions (1, 2) pivot relative to one another. The pivot element comprises a pin (14) which is connected to the second portion (2) and inserted in the first portion (1) on the side of the first portion (1) substantially opposite the side of the first portion (1) facing the second portion (2). Advantageously, the relative rotational movement is also enabled. A busbar is preferably connected to the terminal block.