Snap-In Terminal Lever Structure for Angled Conductor Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spring-loaded connection terminals require parallel insertion of conductors and have large actuators, limiting their compactness and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A snap-in connector with a housing containing angled openings and a clamping spring actuated by a rotatable lever, allowing conductor insertion at an angle and featuring a compact design with a rotatable lever and actuator for latching and clamping positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional spring-loaded terminal with parallel insertion is used, then the terminal structure is simple, but the terminal size increases and versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotatable lever mechanism that operates in a dimension perpendicular to the conductor insertion direction. The lever pivots between latching and clamping positions, enabling the clamping spring to be actuated by rotational motion rather than linear motion parallel to insertion. This dimensional change allows angled insertion while maintaining a compact structure.
2Volume of stationary object
If a large actuator is used to operate the clamping mechanism, then the clamping function is reliable, but the terminal size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic rotatable lever that pivots between positions rather than requiring a large static actuator. The lever's rotational movement efficiently transmits force to the clamping spring, providing reliable clamping action while occupying minimal space. The lever's motion transforms the operational mechanism from linear to rotational, reducing the overall terminal footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the clamping spring is actuated in a direction parallel to conductor insertion, then the mechanism is simple, but the terminal cannot accommodate angled insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable lever acts as an intermediary mechanism between the conductor insertion and the clamping spring actuation. When the conductor is inserted at an angle, the lever translates this motion into the appropriate rotational movement to release or engage the clamping spring. This intermediary component enables angled insertion without requiring the clamping mechanism itself to move in the insertion direction.
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 compact and versatile conductor connection by allowing angled insertion and providing a visual indication of the clamping state, reducing the terminal's size and enhancing operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a clamping spring (14) which is operable between latching and clamping positions
Implementation Method 2
A clamping leg of the clamping spring is pivotable in a first direction from the latching position to the clamping position
Data Source
AI summary
A snap-in terminal connector for a conductor includes a housing having a first opening for receiving the conductor and a second opening arranged at an angle, and preferably perpendicular, relative to the first opening for an actuator for the connector. The connector includes a bus bar, a clamping spring, and a rotatable lever operable by the actuator. The clamping spring is mounted on the housing and includes integral clamping and support legs. The clamping leg is operable between latching and clamping conditions. The actuator is operable to rotate the lever which tensions the clamping spring by pressing the clamping leg toward the support leg. A retaining assembly on the support leg retains the clamping leg in the latching position. When a conductor is inserted into the housing first opening, the leading end of the conductor presses against the clamping spring support leg to release the clamping leg which presses the conductor against the bus bar and retains the conductor within the housing.