Spring Terminal Block Release Mechanism for Tool-Free Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks require tools for adjusting the clamping arm to facilitate insertion or removal of electrical conductors, leading to a less space-efficient and inconvenient operation.
Innovation Solution
A terminal block design featuring a release element with a return element, actuating element, and a clamping arm that can be moved into a release position using the actuating element, allowing easy insertion or removal of electrical conductors without tools, and automatically locking into a clamping position upon insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tool is used to adjust the clamping arm to facilitate insertion or removal of electrical conductors, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases and space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block enables tool-free operation through a self-contained release mechanism. The actuating element directly manipulates the spring element to move the clamping arm between clamping and release positions, eliminating the need for external tools while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping arm is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to switch between a clamping position (for secure electrical connection) and a release position (for easy conductor insertion/removal). The spring element provides the necessary dynamic movement without requiring complex mechanisms
2Ease of operation
If the clamping arm is made movable to facilitate conductor insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of electrical contact may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is pre-loaded to automatically move the clamping arm into the clamping position as soon as the conductor is inserted. This preliminary action ensures that the conductor is immediately and reliably clamped, maintaining electrical contact reliability while enabling easy insertion
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element provides continuous elastic force that maintains the clamping arm in the clamping position, creating a self-regulating system that ensures reliable electrical contact. The spring's inherent elasticity provides feedback that keeps the connection stable without requiring additional locking mechanisms
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 reliable, space-saving, and convenient operation with minimal effort for connecting and disconnecting electrical conductors, ensuring easy handling and secure electrical contact.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (12) having a clamping arm (120) designed to act on the conductor (2) to bring it into contact with the contact element (11)
Implementation Method 2
The actuating element (14) is designed to act on the return element (134) in order to pre-tension the release element (13) in the direction of the detent position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A terminal block (1) comprises a housing (10) having a plug-in opening (100) into which the electrical conductor (2) can be inserted for connection to the terminal block (1). A contact element (11) for electrical contact with the electrical conductor (2) is arranged on the housing (10). An actuating element (14) is movable relative to the housing (10) for adjusting a clamping leg (120) of a spring element (12). A release element (13), adjustable relative to the housing (10), has a release section (130). The clamping leg (120) is latched to the release element (13) in the release position. When the release element (13) is latched to the clamping leg (120), the release section (130) assumes a detent position relative to the housing (10). The release element (13) has a return element (134).The actuating element (14) is designed to act on the return element (134) to bias the release element (13) in the direction of the detent position when the actuating element (14) is actuated to move the clamping leg (120) into the release position.