Terminal Block Opening Tool for Compact Terminal Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection terminals without housings face challenges in minimizing the distance between adjacent terminals due to the presence of metallic, electrically conductive operating handles and opening tools, which restrict space minimization when arranging multiple terminals next to each other.
Innovation Solution
A connection terminal assembly featuring a cylindrical opening tool with two tool attachments spaced apart, allowing the cage bar to be accommodated between the cage top openings, which narrows the conductor receiving space and centers the conductor, preventing tilting of the spring element and ensuring proper clamping, while a movement end stop prevents excessive stress on the spring element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional opening tool with metallic operating handles is used, then the clamping point can be opened, but the minimum distance between adjacent connection terminals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential functional elements of the opening tool (cylindrical attachments for pressing the spring element) while removing the problematic metallic operating handles and body. The tool attachments are designed to fit through openings in the cage top and press the spring element from above, eliminating the need for lateral metallic handles that increase the minimum distance between terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening mechanism transitions from a lateral operation (metallic handles acting from the side) to a vertical operation (cylindrical attachments pressing from above through cage top openings). This dimensional change allows the tool to function without requiring lateral space, thereby minimizing the minimum distance between adjacent terminals.
2Area of stationary object
If the tool attachments are made slim and narrow, then the space between terminals is minimized, but the guiding function for the conductor may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical tool attachments have different functional zones: the upper portion provides guiding and centering surfaces for the conductor, while the lower pressing surface provides the opening force. This local differentiation of quality allows the attachments to be slim and narrow overall while still providing adequate guiding function in the local region where the conductor contacts them.
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal block is described and illustrated, comprising a contact cage with a cage roof and two side walls adjoining the cage roof on one side, as well as a cage base, wherein the cage roof, cage base and side walls are part of a cage shell, with a spring element which, together with a counter bearing, forms a clamping point for holding and electrically contacting an electrical conductor, with a conductor insertion opening on an end face of the contact cage, which is arranged upstream of the clamping point in the conductor insertion direction x, with a recess in the cage shell which allows access to the spring element in order to change its position relative to the counter bearing, if necessary by means of an opening tool, in order to open the clamping point, wherein the shell recess is formed by an opening in the cage roof through which an opening tool may have direct or indirect access to the spring element.