Connector Insert Spring Earthing for Fast Vibration-Resistant Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wire connection methods, such as screw connections, are time-consuming, prone to loose screws during transport, and not suitable for both rigid and soft lead wires, while push-in technologies are complex and costly to manufacture.

Innovation Solution

A plug-in insert for connectors featuring a protective grounding arrangement with an inverted or V-shaped spring and a hollow actuating element, allowing for secure and efficient connection of both hard and soft lead wires using a common tool, with a simple structure and low manufacturing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If screw connection is used to connect wire, then connection reliability is improved, but installation time and labor intensity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the screw connection mechanism with a spring-based push-in mechanism. The spring element automatically clamps the conductor onto the contact when inserted, eliminating the need for screw tightening while maintaining reliable electrical connection. This mechanical substitution resolves the contradiction by providing both quick installation and connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element is designed to automatically clamp the conductor upon insertion without requiring additional tightening actions. The spring's elastic force self-adjusts to secure the conductor firmly on the contact, making the connection process self-completing and eliminating manual intervention for securing the connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Stability of the object's composition

If screw connection is used to connect wire, then connection stability is improved, but vibration resistance deteriorates due to loose screws

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidvibration resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the screw fastening system with a spring-based clamping system that provides continuous contact force on the conductor. The spring's elastic properties ensure constant pressure is maintained on the conductor, preventing loosening under vibration while maintaining stable electrical connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If push-in wire connection technology is applied, then installation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into modular components: a housing, a spring element, and separate contacts. Each component has a specific function, and they can be manufactured independently and assembled easily. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing while enabling the push-in functionality that improves installation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element is extracted as a separate, simple component that provides the clamping force. By isolating the complex function of automatic clamping into a single spring mechanism, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining high installation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Productivity

If push-in wire connection technology is applied, then installation speed is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The spring element is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. By using a basic spring mechanism rather than complex electronic or mechanical systems, the manufacturing cost remains low while installation speed is significantly improved.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector components can be manufactured separately using standard manufacturing processes, allowing for cost-effective production. The modular design enables efficient assembly and reduces tooling costs, offsetting the benefits of faster installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 quick, reliable, and vibration-resistant connections for both protective and power lead wires, ensuring long-term stability and high contact force, suitable for various industries with reduced production costs.

Implementation Method 1

the spring, preferably due to its elasticity, can perform both a pivoting movement and a vertical movement opposite to the insertion direction when the pressure force is released

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The actuating element is in a retaining position on the spring. The spring is in a rest position with respect to the housing portion when the actuating element is not subjected to any compressive force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4462604A1Set of inserts and connector comprising such a set
Publication Date: 2024.11.13 HARTING ELECTRIC STIFTUNG & CO KG
  • EP4462604A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4462604A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4462604A1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to a plug-in insert for a connector. It comprises a main body, a plurality of plug-in contact arrangements, a retaining plate, and at least one plug-in protective earthing arrangement located on a side wall of the insert, wherein a protective conductor can be connected to the protective earthing arrangement. The present invention further relates to a connector comprising the plug-in insert. This provides a simple, quick, reliable, and vibration-resistant connection between a protective conductor and a live conductor, making it suitable not only for the installation of a hard conductor but also for the installation of a soft conductor.