Reconfigurable Contact Block with Reversible Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contact blocks are typically designed for either panel or DIN rail mounting, limiting their versatility and requiring specific access configurations for terminal screws, which complicates wiring connections.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable contact block with reversible wiring terminals and interchangeable protective covers allows for flexible mounting to either the front or rear, enabling access to terminal screws from either direction through biaxially symmetrical mating portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If contact blocks are designed for specific mounting types (panel or DIN rail), then the mounting structure is optimized for that specific application, but the versatility and adaptability of the contact block is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The contact block is designed with universal mounting capabilities that allow it to be installed on both panel backs and DIN rails. The mounting structure includes a mounting plate with holes for panel mounting, while the body can engage with DIN rails, enabling the same device to serve multiple mounting functions without requiring separate designs for each application type.
2Ease of operation
If terminal screws are positioned facing the rear for panel mounting, then wiring connections can be made from the rear, but access is blocked when mounted on DIN rails
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal screw orientation is inverted or made reversible depending on the mounting configuration. When mounted on a panel, the terminal screws face the rear for rear access. When mounted on a DIN rail, the terminal screws face the front for front access. This inversion capability allows the same device to provide easy terminal access regardless of the mounting type used.
3Device complexity
If the contact block is designed with fixed terminal orientation, then the internal structure is simplified, but the wiring access is restricted for certain mounting configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal screw orientation is made dynamic rather than fixed. The terminal screws can be positioned to face either the front or rear of the contact block depending on the mounting configuration. This dynamic repositioning capability allows the internal structure to adapt to different mounting scenarios, providing wiring access from the appropriate direction while maintaining relatively simple internal construction.
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5A
AI summary
A reconfigurable contact block usable for at least DIN rail and panel mount applications. The contact block has at least one wiring compartment (34) with a reversible wiring terminal (44, 46) and a reversible protective cover (50). Lateral wiring ports (66) in the cover guide inserted wires to the covered terminal, and an axially facing cover opening (62) provides tool access to the terminal. In an embodiment, the contact block has two wiring compartments (34), one on either side. Each compartment has a reversible wiring terminal (44, 46) and a reversible protective cover (50), the covers (50) being interchangeable.