Terminal Block Resilient Interface for Tolerance Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing terminal block designs face issues with deformation of mating terminals due to manufacturing and assembly tolerances when fastened with a bolt, leading to gaps between the mating and connection terminals.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a resilient member surrounding the insertion hole between the mating and connection terminals, which absorbs tolerances during fastening, preventing deformation and ensuring secure contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the mating terminal and connection terminal are fastened by a bolt in a state where a gap is present, then the gap can be filled, but the mating terminal deforms toward the connection terminal
Solution Approach 1:
A resilient member is introduced as an intermediary component between the mating terminal and connection terminal. This resilient member absorbs the gap due to manufacturing tolerances through its elastic deformation, preventing the mating terminal from deforming while still achieving secure fastening. The resilient member acts as a buffer that maintains electrical connection without transmitting deforming forces to the mating terminal.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member changes its physical state from a relaxed condition to a compressed/deformed condition during fastening. By utilizing the elastic property of the resilient member, the system accommodates dimensional variations and gaps without causing permanent deformation to the mating terminal. The resilient member's ability to deform elastically allows it to absorb tolerance variations while maintaining connection stability.
2Device complexity
If manufacturing tolerances and assembly tolerances are not accounted for, then the structure remains simple, but gaps form between terminals leading to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member is pre-installed in the connection terminal structure to provide cushioning against future tolerance variations. This beforehand cushioning ensures that when assembly tolerances cause gaps, the resilient member is already in position to absorb these variations elastically, preventing terminal deformation and maintaining reliable electrical connection without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 resilient member effectively suppresses deformation of the mating terminals, maintaining secure electrical connections even under high voltage conditions by absorbing tolerances and maintaining contact between the nut and connection terminal.
Implementation Method 1
the resilient member is deformed, thereby absorbing tolerances between the mating terminal and the connection terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal block (10) according to one aspect of the present disclosure is provided with a connection terminal (20) having a first surface (22a) formed to face a mating terminal (110), a second surface (22b) located opposite to the first surface (22a) and an insertion hole (22c) penetrating through the first surface (22a) and the second surface (22b), a bolt (150) being inserted through the insertion hole (22c), the connection terminal being electrically connected to the mating terminal (110), a nut (30) facing the second surface (22b) in an axial direction of the insertion hole (22c) and fastenable to the bolt (150), a housing (40) for holding the connection terminal (20) and the nut (30), and a resilient member (70) provided to surround a part surrounding the insertion hole (22c), out of the first surface (22a).