Plug-In Terminal Connection with Tool-Free Spring Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screwless terminal connections in industrial switchgear require multiple tools to connect or disconnect multiple connecting elements, making it difficult and labor-intensive, especially in environments with strong vibrations where clamping forces can loosen.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a manually operable opening member that pushes the clamping spring away from the clamping point, allowing tool-free insertion and removal of connecting elements, and an optional locking element to secure the connection against vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If screwless spring-loaded terminals are used to enable tool-free connection, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple tools to operate multiple terminals simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple spring-loaded terminals into a single integrated terminal block that can be operated with one tool. The terminal block includes multiple clamping springs arranged in a row, all actuated by a single operating element, allowing simultaneous connection of multiple conductors without requiring multiple separate tools or operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal block serves multiple functions: it provides multiple electrical connections simultaneously, acts as a single operational unit, and integrates both clamping and insulation functions. The single terminal block replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate terminals, each needing individual tool operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spring-loaded terminals are used to connect multiple contact lugs, then electrical connectivity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates as multiple tools are required to open multiple terminals
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple terminals are merged into a single integrated unit where all clamping springs are actuated by one operating element. This allows the installer to disconnect multiple contact lugs simultaneously with a single tool operation, rather than requiring separate tools for each terminal.
3Reliability
If high clamping force is used to ensure secure electrical contact, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to unmanageable opening force required to remove connecting elements
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block uses spring-loaded clamping mechanisms that provide high static clamping force for reliable electrical contact, but allow dynamic release through the operating element. The springs can be compressed and released easily, enabling secure connection during normal operation while allowing simple removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating element acts as an intermediary that translates a small manual force into the opening of multiple clamping springs simultaneously. This mediator allows the user to overcome the high clamping force of multiple springs with a single, manageable operating action.
4Reliability
If traditional screw terminals are used to ensure secure connection, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the two-step connection process and torque-dependent clamping force
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded terminal block provides self-adjusting clamping force through the spring mechanism, eliminating the need for manual torque adjustment. The springs automatically provide consistent, reproducible clamping force without requiring the installer to tighten screws to specific torque values, and the entire connection process is completed in a single insertion motion.
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 easy, tool-free connection and disconnection of multiple connecting elements, maintaining secure electrical contact and preventing loosening due to vibrations, reducing operational complexity and effort.
Implementation Method 1
at least one clamping spring which acts as a compression spring on a clamping point of the contact flag for clamping the contact flag
Implementation Method 2
clamping spring acting as a compression spring
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting device (100) which has at least one installation switching device (1) with a housing and with at least one screwless terminal and at least one connecting element (8), the connecting element (8) having at least one connecting conductor (10) with at least one conductor on it arranged contact lug (11), characterized in that the clamp is of the type which has at least one clamping spring (40) acting as a compression spring on a clamping point (29) of the contact lug (11) for clamping the contact lug (11) and for pressing on a Contact point (30) of the contact lug (11) on a busbar (27), and that the connecting element (8) is designed with a manually operable opening member (35) which, when actuated, releases the clamping spring (40) from the clamping point (29). pushes away and thus allows removal of the contact lug (11) from the terminal without using an additional tool.