Terminal Block Connector With Spring-Loaded Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks require replacement to add additional electrical connections, which is time and labor intensive, as existing electrical connections need to be rewired, making it undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with spring-loaded electrical contacts that engage conductive screws of terminal blocks, allowing for additional connections without replacing the blocks, including a fixture with electrical contacts positioned along a longitudinal axis and optionally attached to a printed circuit board and cable connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If terminal blocks are replaced to add additional electrical connections, then the number of electrical connections is increased, but the time and labor required for rewiring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the terminal block system into two functional components: the original terminal blocks and a separate connector assembly. The connector contains multiple electrical contacts that can engage with existing terminal blocks, allowing additional connections to be added without replacing the terminal blocks themselves. This segmentation enables independent addition of connectivity functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary device between existing terminal blocks and additional electrical connections. Rather than directly replacing terminal blocks, the connector engages with their conductive screws to provide extra connection points, serving as a mediating structure that adds functionality without disrupting existing connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If terminal blocks are replaced to add additional electrical connections, then the number of electrical connections is increased, but the complexity of the wiring process increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the connection addition function into a distinct connector assembly, the invention simplifies the overall wiring process. The connector is designed as a self-contained unit with pre-arranged electrical contacts, eliminating the need to rewire existing terminal blocks and reducing the complexity of the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with universal engagement capability, using electrical contacts that can interface with standard conductive screws found on various terminal blocks. This multi-functional design allows the same connector to work with different terminal block configurations, simplifying the wiring process across diverse applications.
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
Enables the establishment of additional electrical connections with existing terminal blocks, avoiding the need for replacement and reducing the time and labor required for rewiring, by using the connector to engage conductive screws and maintain connections.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of electrical contacts includes an electrical prong that is mechanically biased away from the fixture
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for establishing an electrical connection with a plurality of terminal blocks may include a fixture and a plurality of electrical contacts attached to the fixture. The electrical contacts may be configured to engage conductive screws of the plurality of terminal blocks. The electrical contacts may also be configured to be mechanically biased against the conductive screws. The connector may include a printed circuit board attached to the fixture and electrical contacts. The connector may also include a cable connector. The printed circuit board may electrically connect the cable connector to the electrical contacts. A connector system may include a plurality of such connectors. One or more securing elements may be employed to attach such connectors to one another.