Quick-fit Multi-conductor Cable Socket with Segmented Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connectors for multi-conductor cables are difficult to use and require complex assembly processes, making them time-consuming and prone to errors.

Innovation Solution

A socket design featuring a terminal block with axial columns and a screw-nut assembly system, including helical notches and ramps, that allows for easy assembly and disassembly by preventing comb rotation and facilitating conductor stripping, with a polarizer ensuring correct angular alignment and a thermoplastic material option for industrial optimization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional grip design is used, then the connection is reliable, but the assembly process is difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The grip is divided into modular components: a body with a cavity, a removable comb with notches for conductors, and a terminal block with electrical contacts. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled quickly through the screw-nut mechanism, reducing overall assembly time while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The comb is pre-configured with notches positioned to align with corresponding electrical contacts on the terminal block. The screw-nut assembly is pre-installed on the comb, enabling the comb to be quickly inserted into the body cavity and immediately secured by rotating the screw to engage the nut, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If a complex clamping mechanism is used, then the connection is secure, but the device becomes difficult to use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidease of use
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The screw-nut clamping mechanism is self-contained and self-operating. The screw threads directly into the nut that is integrally formed on the comb, creating a self-service fastening system that requires no additional tools or complex adjustment procedures. The operator simply rotates the screw to engage the nut, and the threaded mechanism automatically provides the clamping force needed to secure the comb in the body cavity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If traditional assembly methods are used, then proper alignment can be achieved, but the assembly process becomes error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment accuracyVSAvoidassembly error rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The comb and terminal block feature asymmetric keying elements with specific angular orientations. The comb has a keyed portion that fits into a corresponding recess in the body, while the terminal block has a polarizer element with a specific angular position. This asymmetric geometry ensures that the components can only be assembled in the correct angular relationship, preventing misalignment and assembly errors while maintaining precise alignment of the notches with the electrical contacts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentEP2095468B1Quick-fit connection socket for multi-conductor cable
Publication Date: 2017.05.24 LEGRAND SNC
  • EP2095468B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2095468B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2095468B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention relates to a socket to be mounted on a multi-conductor cable and including a removable comb (1) having a central channel (5) extending therethrough, a connection terminal block (2), and a screw (3) and nut (4) assembling device. According to the invention, the screw (3) is fixedly mounted on the comb (1) for axial translation therewith and capable of rotation relative to the comb about the axis (X) of the socket, the terminal block (2) including two columns (22) that prevent the rotation of the comb about the axis (X) and in which helical notches (41) are formed that define a portion at least of the nut (4).