Terminal Block Removable Partition for Large Cable Diameter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks for electrical conductors on Ω rails face challenges in accommodating cables with diameters larger than the block's pitch, leading to protrusions that hinder the alignment and connection of subsequent blocks, and lack an efficient solution for varying cable diameters.
Innovation Solution
A junction block assembly with a removable partition that features a duct with a side opening allowing cables up to a maximum diameter to protrude laterally, and a partition that extends to house these protrusions, enabling the use of a single block type for different cable diameters, including those exceeding the block's pitch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a solid terminal partition is used to completely close the open face of the junction block, then electrical isolation is improved, but the ability to accommodate cables with large diameters is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The partition is segmented into two parts: a fixed base partition that provides electrical isolation, and a removable extension partition that can be added or removed based on cable diameter requirements. This segmentation allows the system to maintain electrical isolation while adapting to different cable sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition configuration is made dynamic through the removable extension. The extension can be installed when large diameter cables need to be accommodated and removed when they are not needed, allowing the system to adapt its structure based on operational requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If the junction block pitch is reduced to accommodate more cables, then the density of connections is improved, but the maximum cable diameter that can be accommodated is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The solution extends the accommodation space in a new dimension by adding the removable extension partition that protrudes from the main junction block. This allows cables with large diameters to be routed through the extension without increasing the base block's pitch, maintaining high density while accommodating larger cables.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of junction blocks are used to accommodate different cable diameters, then the adaptability to various cable sizes is improved, but the device complexity and inventory requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal junction block design is created that can accommodate both small and large diameter cables through the use of the removable extension partition. The extension acts as a universal adapter that transforms the block's capability without requiring different base block types, simplifying inventory and reducing complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cables with large diameters are allowed to protrude from the junction block, then the ability to connect large cables is improved, but the alignment and connection of subsequent blocks is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The extension partition is designed to be removable and separate from the main junction block. When not needed for alignment purposes, it can be removed or positioned to not interfere with the Ω rail alignment, allowing the base block to maintain stable positioning while the extension provides cable accommodation when required.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The assembly has a cable introducing conduit (32) with an opening (43) arranged on a main face (5) of a joint case of a terminal block (1). The conduit and the opening are conformed such that the conduit admits a cable end (70) till a maximal diameter equal to a preset value. The cable end laterally projects via the opening if the diameter ranges between another preset value and the former value. A removable partition (97) and its opening (99) are conformed such that the projected cable end is entirely housed in a space delimited by the opening (99).