Terminal Block Handle Mechanism for Toolless Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional terminal blocks require a screwdriver or similar tool for operation, which is inconvenient and can damage the device, necessitating an improvement in tool usage during wiring work.

Innovation Solution

A terminal block with a handle that utilizes a toggle member to move a movable elastic arm away from the conductive terminal, eliminating the need for a screwdriver by rotating the toggle member to open or close the insertion hole and create an electric connection with the conductive terminal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a screwdriver or similar tool is used to operate the terminal block, then the wiring function can be achieved, but the convenience of operation deteriorates and the risk of damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconvenience of wiring operationVSAvoidcomplexity of operating mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal block is designed to be operated directly by hand through the toggle member without requiring external tools. The toggle member engages with the movable elastic arm to open the insertion hole, and the elastic arm itself performs the clamping function when released, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for screwdrivers or similar tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The terminal block employs a dynamic mechanism where the movable elastic arm can transition between clamped and released states. The toggle member acts as a dynamic actuator that temporarily displaces the elastic arm during insertion, then allows it to return to its clamping position automatically, providing toolless operation while maintaining secure wire retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a screwdriver or similar tool is used to operate the terminal block, then the wiring function can be achieved, but the risk of damage to the terminal block increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverisk of damage to terminal blockVSAvoidconvenience of wiring operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The toggle member serves as an intermediary mechanism between the user's hand and the movable elastic arm. Instead of directly manipulating the elastic arm with a screwdriver, the user operates the toggle member which in turn actuates the elastic arm, providing a safer and more controlled interaction that reduces the risk of damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If a toggle member mechanism is added to enable toolless operation, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconvenience of wiring operationVSAvoidcomplexity of internal mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The toggle member mechanism is integrated with the existing elastic arm and insertion hole structure. The toggle member utilizes the movable elastic arm as part of its actuation mechanism, and the elastic arm serves dual functions as both the clamping element and the actuator for the toggle member, merging multiple functions into a unified structure that minimizes additional complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The movable elastic arm serves multiple functions: it acts as the clamping element for securing the wire, serves as the actuator for the toggle member mechanism, and forms part of the insertion hole structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving toolless operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This solution enhances the convenience of terminal blocks by allowing toolless wiring operations, reducing the risk of damage and improving the ease of wire connection and disconnection.

Implementation Method 1

The flexible clamp is extended with a movable elastic arm abutting against the conductive terminal and closing the inserting hole

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the pivot is extended with a pusher abutting against the movable elastic arm. When the toggle member is rotated to a release position, the pusher is rotated about the pivot to press the movable elastic arm

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotation:

Data Source

PatentUS11605909B2Terminal block with handle

Publication Date: 2023.03.14 DINKLE ENTERPRISE CO LTD

AI summary

The invention relates to a terminal block with a handle. The terminal block includes an insulative base, a conductive terminal, a flexible clamp and a toggle member. The insulative base has a chamber and an insertion hole communicating with the chamber. The conductive terminal is fixed at a bottom of the insertion hole. The flexible clamp is received in the chamber and extended with a movable elastic arm abutting against the conductive terminal and closing the inserting hole. The toggle member has a pivot rotatably connected in the chamber. The pivot is extended with a pusher abutting against the movable elastic arm. When the toggle member is rotated to a release position, the pusher is rotated about the pivot to press the movable elastic arm so the movable elastic arm deviates from the conductive terminal and the insertion hole is opened.