Terminal Block Slider Latch for Secure PCB Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks for connecting circuit boards and wires face issues with instability due to a lack of firm securing mechanisms, making it difficult to remove the connector from the circuit board, and users are unsure if the board is properly positioned during clamping.
Innovation Solution
A terminal block design featuring an insulative seat with a flexible arm latch and slider, where the slider's sloped interfering portions convert longitudinal displacement into transverse displacement to retract the hook, allowing for easy release of the circuit board, and a handle for pulling the slider to separate the block from the board, ensuring secure fixation and easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a hook is provided to hook the circuit board, then the circuit board is firmly fixed, but the connector becomes difficult to remove from the circuit board
Solution Approach 1:
The hook is made flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically change its position. During insertion, the hook deflects to accommodate the circuit board edge, and during removal, the hook can be pushed back to release the board, enabling both firm fixation and easy removal
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fastener clamps the circuit board edge, then the circuit board is secured, but the user cannot know if the board is properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener includes a visual indicator that provides feedback to the user about the positioning status. When the circuit board is properly inserted, the indicator shows a specific state, allowing the user to confirm correct positioning without complex detection mechanisms
3Ease of manufacture
If the fastener and body are not firmly secured, then the connector is easy to assemble, but the circuit board becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is designed with flexible arms that can be easily compressed during assembly but provide strong clamping force when engaged. The flexibility allows easy assembly while the engaged position provides stable circuit board fixation
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 terminal block provides stable fixation and easy release of the circuit board, allowing users to confirm board positioning during clamping and facilitating effortless removal by converting the displacement mechanism, enhancing usability and stability.
Implementation Method 1
The first interfering portion and the second interfering portion abut against each other to push the slope to deflect the flexible arm latch
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal block includes an insulative seat, a flexible arm latch and a slider. The insulative seat has a slot and a sliding trough. A longitudinal direction of the sliding trough is parallel to a depth direction of the slot. The flexible arm latch is disposed on the insulative seat. A longitudinal direction of the flexible arm latch is parallel to the depth direction of the slot. The flexible arm latch has a first interfering portion and a hook. The slider is disposed in the sliding trough and longitudinally movable along the sliding trough. The slider has a second interfering portion. Either the first interfering portion or the second interfering portion is a slope. The first and second interfering portions abut against each other to push the slope to deflect the flexible arm latch to make the hook retract when the slider is traveling toward the slot.