Sliding Bus Bar Connection Adapter with Spring-Loaded Hook
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection adapters for electrical components require significant installation space and manual effort for connecting modular components to external feed and/or signal buses, making the process time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A connection adapter with plug contacts, such as tulip contacts, and a spring-loaded fixing mechanism that allows easy sliding onto the busbars, enabling quick and secure electrical connection with minimal space requirements, and automatic latching for easy detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connection adapter is designed to be plugged onto a plug-in base with a pivoting movement, then the adapter can be securely connected to the busbar system, but significant installation space is required above the plug-in base
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional pivoting motion by designing the adapter to slide linearly onto the plug-in base instead of pivoting. This inversion of the motion type eliminates the need for overhead installation space while maintaining secure connection through the sliding latching mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the motion from a rotational pivot in the vertical dimension to a linear slide in the horizontal dimension. This dimensional change allows the adapter to connect securely without requiring installation space above the plug-in base
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular electrical components are connected by hand on the connection adapter, then flexibility in component selection is achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter features self-aligning and self-latching mechanisms that automatically guide and secure the electrical component during the sliding motion. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual connection steps while preserving the ability to connect various modular components
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter incorporates pre-positioned contact elements and guiding features that are prepared in advance. When the component is slid into place, these pre-prepared features automatically establish electrical contact and mechanical fixation, eliminating the need for manual connection operations
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 rapid and tool-free connection of electrical components to external feed and/or signal buses with reduced installation space, improving efficiency and ease of use by allowing simultaneous mechanical and electrical fixation during sliding.
Implementation Method 1
The fixing element (19) is designed to be movable from a fixing position into an adjustment position and back, in particular with a restoring force
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection adapter designed for electrically connecting an electrical component to an externally routed power supply and/or signal bus, and which can be plugged onto the power supply and/or signal bus in a plug-in direction, wherein the connection adapter comprises: - electrical connection connectors for electrically contacting the electrical component; and - at least one fixing means for fixing the electrical component, which is adjustable from a fixing position to an adjustment position and back; and wherein - the connection connectors are oriented against a sliding direction, so that the electrical component can be slid onto the connection connectors in a sliding direction; - the fixing means is designed to fix the electrical component against displacement against the sliding direction; and - the fixing means is designed as a locking hook.The present invention further relates to an extension element for such an adapter, an arrangement of an electrical component and such a connection adapter, and a method for arranging the electrical component on the connection adapter.