Spring Clamp Terminal Assembly for Small Flexible Conductors

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection arrangements struggle to simplify the connection of flexible conductors and those with small conductor cross-sections, as they require sufficient force to release the clamping spring from the open position, which can be difficult to achieve.

Innovation Solution

A connection arrangement featuring two separate actuating elements, where the first element transfers the clamping spring from the clamping position to the open position, and the second element releases it from the open position, allowing for easier connection of flexible or small conductors without relying on compressive force from the conductor itself.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single actuating element is used to transfer the clamping spring from clamped to open position, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates when connecting flexible conductors with small cross-sections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of actuating elementsVSAvoidease of connecting flexible conductors
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The single actuating element is divided into two separate actuating elements: a first actuating element (119) that transfers the clamping spring from clamped to open position, and a second actuating element (128) that releases the clamping spring from the open position. This segmentation allows each element to perform a specific function, making the connection of flexible conductors easier without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the clamping spring is held in open position by a locking mechanism, then the reliability of the open position is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates when manual force is required to close the locking leg

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding of open positionVSAvoidease of closing locking leg
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The second actuating element (128) acts as an intermediary tool that assists the user in releasing the locking leg (116) from the holding contour (127). Instead of requiring direct manual force on the locking leg, the second actuating element provides mechanical leverage and guidance, making the closing operation easier while maintaining the reliable holding of the open position through the locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Facilitates easier handling and connection of flexible or small conductors by allowing the clamping spring to be released from the open position using the second actuating element, eliminating the need for manual force to close the locking leg and enabling tool-free connection.

Implementation Method 1

a clamping spring (112) which can be transferred into a clamped position and into an open position, wherein in the clamped position of the clamping spring (112) the electrical conductor (300) to be connected is clamped

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4084226B1Connecting assembly, terminal and electronic device
Publication Date: 2024.11.13 PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4084226B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4084226B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4084226B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a connection arrangement (100) for connecting an electrical conductor (300), comprising a current bar (110), a clamping spring (112) which can be moved into a clamping position and an open position, wherein in the clamping position of the clamping spring (112) the electrical conductor (300) to be connected is clamped against a clamping section (111) of the current bar (110), a first actuating element (119) which can be guided along a first actuating direction (B1) and by means of which the clamping spring (112) can be moved from the clamping position to the open position, and a second actuating element (128) which can be guided along a second actuating direction (B2) and by means of which the clamping spring (112) can be released from the open position.