Terminal Block With Integrated Protrusion Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks for connecting printed circuit boards (PCBs) are often bulky, prone to mechanical failure, and require external tools for operation, making them inconvenient and unsafe for use.
Innovation Solution
A terminal block with an elastically deformable enclosure and integral protrusions that act as both the actuation mechanism and cable retention system, allowing for easy cable insertion and removal without external tools, and providing enhanced mechanical strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an additional button is used for actuation, then the terminal block allows cable insertion and extraction, but the device becomes bulky and the button may detach and be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation button is integrated directly into the housing as a protrusion element, eliminating the need for a separate button component. The protrusion is formed as part of the housing structure itself, which prevents detachment and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the cable insertion and extraction function.
2Ease of operation
If an additional button is used, then cable connection is enabled, but an auxiliary device like a screwdriver is required making wiring inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion integrated into the housing serves as a self-contained actuation mechanism that can be directly manipulated by hand. The design eliminates the need for external tools like screwdrivers by incorporating the actuation function directly into the housing structure, allowing users to perform cable connection and disconnection operations easily.
3Ease of operation
If elastic hinges are provided on the body, then the terminal block allows actuation, but the pivoted part becomes extremely fragile and breaks after small number of actuations
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is merged with the housing structure through the integrated protrusion, eliminating separate pivoted parts and elastic hinges that are prone to breaking. The housing itself provides the structural support and actuation function, significantly improving mechanical durability while maintaining actuation capability.
4Volume of moving object
If the terminal block is made compact, then it is more suitable for PCB context, but the structure becomes more complex to achieve desired strength
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (housing, actuation mechanism, cable retention) are merged into a single integrated structure. The housing with integrated protrusion eliminates the need for separate components, achieving a compact size suitable for PCB applications while maintaining structural strength through the unified design.
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
The solution simplifies cable management, enhances mechanical durability, and eliminates the need for external tools, making the terminal block safer, easier to use, and cost-effective for PCB connections.
Implementation Method 1
The grip means 2 comprise a body configured to be arranged in a cavity of the enclosure 1... The body is provided with a base 2b which is adapted to support at least partially an electrical cable 30... The body further comprises two portions 2c, divaricated from a respective protrusion 1c... and an elastic component, which is adapted to block an electrical cable 30
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal block, particularly for the connection of printed circuit boards or “PCB”, comprising an enclosure made of insulating material adapted to accommodate at least one electrical cable and grip elements adapted to retain the electrical cable inside the enclosure; the enclosure is adapted to actuate the grip elements for the extraction/insertion of the electrical cable from/in the enclosure.