Connection Terminal Latch Mechanism for Tool-Free Wire Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection terminals for electrical wires require complex tool-based operations to move the clamping portion into a release position, making the attachment and removal of electrical wires cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A connection terminal design featuring a pivotally mounted actuation element that engages with a release element, allowing the clamping portion to be easily moved into a release position via user actuation, and automatically returns to a clamping position upon wire insertion, facilitating easy attachment and removal without additional force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tool-based actuation mechanism is used to move the clamping portion into release position, then the clamping portion can be reliably actuated, but the operation becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is designed to be automatically actuated by the inserted electrical wire itself, without requiring external tools. The wire's insertion directly triggers the release of the actuation element from the retaining element, enabling self-service operation that simplifies the attachment process while maintaining reliable actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation element is pre-positioned in a blocking state that prevents the clamping portion from moving to release position. Upon wire insertion, the preliminary blocking action is automatically解除, allowing the spring element to automatically move the clamping portion to the correct position, ensuring reliable actuation through pre-configured mechanical constraints
2Extent of automation
If the actuation element is spring-loaded to automatically return to non-actuated position, then the return action is automated, but additional components increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element serves the dual function of both clamping the wire and automatically returning the actuation element to its non-actuated position. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for separate return-spring components, achieving automation while minimizing additional device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element combines multiple functions: it provides the clamping force on the electrical wire, acts as the return spring for the actuation element, and works in conjunction with the release element to enable automatic positioning. This merging of functions reduces the total number of components while achieving automated operation
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 simple and reliable electrical connection and disconnection of wires with reduced manual effort, ensuring secure contact and minimizing the risk of incorrect operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element arranged on the housing, the spring element having a clamping portion configured to interact with the electrical wire to bring the electrical wire into contact with the contact element
Implementation Method 2
a release element having a supporting end arranged to be stationary relative to the housing and a release portion elastically movable relative to the supporting end
Data Source
AI summary
A connection terminal for connecting an electrical wire includes: a housing having an insertion opening into which the electrical wire is insertable for connection to the connection terminal; a contact element arranged on the housing, the contact element electrically contacting the electrical wire; a spring element arranged on the housing, the spring element having a clamping portion for interacting with the electrical wire to bring the electrical wire into contact with the contact element; an actuation element pivotally arranged on the housing, the actuation element being movable from a non-actuated position into an actuated position so as to move the clamping portion; and a release element having a supporting end arranged to be stationary relative to the housing and a release portion elastically movable relative to the supporting end. The actuation element engages the release element when in the actuated position to hold the actuation element in the actuated position.