Aircraft Terminal Block Modules With Pin-Rail Quick Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks in aircraft wiring are cumbersome, requiring complex screw-nut systems that are not waterproof, leading to installation challenges, risk of foreign object damage, and limited modularity, with long installation times and potential electrical risks.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connection module with multiple cavities attached to a support rail via positioning pins, allowing for quick and tool-free assembly, eliminating the need for screw-nut systems and providing modular connectivity and waterproof sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw-nut system is used to secure cables to the terminal block, then the electrical connection can be established, but the installation time increases and the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-nut mechanical fastening system with a spring-loaded clamping mechanism. The spring element automatically applies clamping force to secure the cable termination, eliminating the need for manual screw tightening operations while maintaining reliable electrical connection. This substitution reduces installation time and operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded clamping mechanism provides self-adjusting clamping force that automatically maintains reliable electrical connection without requiring manual intervention for torque control. The system self-regulates the clamping pressure, eliminating the need for operators to perform tightening operations and verify torque specifications.
2Reliability
If a screw terminal block is used, then electrical connections can be made, but the number of parts increases and the risk of foreign object damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure: the terminal block body incorporates the spring clamping mechanism, the electrical contact elements, and the cable securing features. This merging eliminates the need for separate screws, nuts, washers, and other discrete fastening components, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the screw-nut fastening system entirely from the terminal block design. By removing these separate fastening components and replacing them with an integrated spring clamping mechanism, the patent reduces the number of parts that could potentially become foreign objects while maintaining secure cable attachment.
3Reliability
If traditional terminal blocks are used, then cable connections can be established, but modularity is limited and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the terminal block into modular segments or units that can be independently configured and combined. Each module can accommodate different cable sizes, termination types, or electrical connection configurations. This segmentation allows the system to be adapted to various application requirements by selecting and combining appropriate modules, enhancing versatility while maintaining reliable connections.
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal block connection assembly (1) with a terminal block (1) comprising one or more connection modules (3.1) with multiple connection cavities (31), the individual attachment of which to a support rail (10), itself intended to be fixed to a structure, in particular an aircraft structure, relates to a terminal block connection assembly (1) with a terminal block (1) comprising one or more connection modules (3.1) with multiple connection cavities (31), the individual attachment of which to a support rail (10), itself intended to be fixed to a structure, is ensured by one or more positioning pins (34) which can be inserted and then each held in a fixing groove (103) by a single translational movement.