Spring Clamp Terminal Latch Structure for Detachable Flexible Cables
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spring clamp terminals are limited to connecting solid (single-core) cables and lack a detachable structure for multi-core (flexible) cables, with non-removable designs hindering flexibility in cable connections.
Innovation Solution
A connection terminal with a latch mechanism that allows for a detachable connection, featuring a spring with a pressing arm, a bridge for electrical transmission, and a latch with a shaft portion that moves to interrupt or maintain contact, along with a fixing slot and sliding surface for easy cable removal and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional spring clamp terminal structure is used, then solid (single-core) cables can be connected securely, but multi-core (flexible) cables cannot be connected and the structure lacks detachability
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal body is divided into separate functional components: cable receiving chambers, bridge elements, spring mechanisms, and latch systems. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the terminal to handle different cable types while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal is designed with universal compatibility to accept both solid (single-core) cables and multi-core (flexible) cables with ferrules. The cable socket and pressing mechanism are configured to accommodate different cable configurations, enabling one device to serve multiple cable connection purposes
2Reliability
If a non-removable connection structure is used, then connection stability is improved, but cable removal and reinstallation become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection terminal incorporates a dynamic latch mechanism that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The latch includes a shaft portion that moves between positions to either secure the spring in a loaded state or allow cable removal, providing both stable connection during use and easy removal when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The latch acts as an intermediary mechanism between the spring pressing force and the cable. It mediates the connection by controlling whether the spring force is applied to the cable, enabling stable connection when engaged and easy removal when disengaged through the sliding surface mechanism
3Ease of operation
If the latch moves without guidance, then movement freedom is improved, but the latch may dislodge during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The movement channel is designed with an asymmetric cross-sectional shape that guides the shaft portion of the latch. The channel geometry allows movement in the intended direction while preventing lateral dislodgement, providing both movement freedom and positional stability through the constrained asymmetric path
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 secure, detachable connections for both single-core and multi-core cables, facilitating easy installation and removal without disrupting electrical contact.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring with at least one pressing arm that exerts a force on the cable to contact the cable with the said bridge
Data Source
AI summary
A connection terminal for electrically connecting at least two cables includes at least one body; at least one cable socket for allowing the cable to be passed through the said body; at least one bridge for providing the electrical transmission between the cables; at least one spring with at least one pressing arm that exerts a force on the cable to contact the cable with the said bridge; and at least one latch for controlling the position of the said spring.