Terminal Matrix Apparatus for Error-Free Circuit Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current terminal block systems require external wiring for interconnections, which is time-consuming, prone to user error, and inefficient, especially for complex connections, and lack effective circuit identification methods.
Innovation Solution
A terminal matrix apparatus with a substrate and terminals that allow for interconnection of endpoints without external wires, featuring a multi-dimensional array of terminals that can be shorted to connect any combination of endpoints, along with circuit identification contacts and a microcontroller for determining which endpoints are interconnected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external wires are used to interconnect endpoints in a terminal block, then flexibility and ease of connection are improved, but preparation time increases exponentially and user error becomes more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes external wires from the interconnection process by integrating all connection functionality directly into the terminal block substrate. The matrix of terminals provides direct electrical pathways between endpoints without requiring external wiring, thereby eliminating wire cutting, stripping, and connection time while maintaining connection flexibility through the matrix architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of external wiring and terminal blocking into a single integrated substrate. The matrix of terminals embedded in the substrate provides both the terminal blocking function and the interconnection function that previously required separate external wires, thereby reducing preparation time and eliminating wire-related errors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external wires are used for interconnections, then connection flexibility is maintained, but the method becomes prone to user error and short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts external wires from the system and replaces them with an integrated matrix of terminals on the substrate. This eliminates sources of user error such as incorrect wire stripping, improper crimping, and accidental short circuits during wire handling, while the matrix architecture maintains connection flexibility through programmable or selectable terminal configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal block substrate provides self-contained interconnection capabilities through its matrix of terminals, eliminating the need for external wiring operations that are prone to user error. The integrated design ensures reliable connections through controlled fabrication processes rather than manual wire assembly.
3Loss of time
If terminal block jumpers are used for interconnections, then preparation time is reduced, but adaptability for complex interconnections is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal terminal block substrate where the matrix of terminals can accommodate various interconnection patterns and complexities. Each terminal can be configured to connect to multiple other terminals through the matrix, providing adaptability for simple and complex interconnections alike, while the integrated design maintains fast preparation times.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal block substrate employs a dynamic matrix architecture where terminal connections can be selectively activated or deactivated based on the required interconnection pattern. This allows the system to adapt from simple to complex connections without requiring physical reconfiguration or additional components, maintaining both speed and versatility.
4Productivity
If a matrix of terminals is integrated into the substrate without external wires, then preparation time is reduced and reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the terminal block into a matrix of discrete terminals on the substrate, each capable of independent configuration and connection. This segmentation allows for systematic management of the complexity while enabling fast and reliable interconnections through the organized matrix structure. The modular terminal design makes the complex functionality manageable and scalable.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus for optimally facilitating interconnections between electrical endpoints. The apparatus comprises a number of terminals equal to a number of combinations of the plurality of endpoints. For example, to enable combinations of two endpoints to be made between N endpoints, the apparatus comprises N(N−1)/2 terminals. Each terminal at least comprises a first contact coupled to a first endpoint and a second contact coupled to a second endpoint. The first contact and second contact of any terminal can be shorted to connect their corresponding endpoints. The apparatus may further comprise a circuit identification process executed by a microcontroller. In this case, each terminal additionally comprises a first circuit identification contact and a second circuit identification contact. The process involves outputting a voltage to the first circuit identification contact and detecting the voltage of the second circuit identification contact to determine whether the corresponding terminal is activated.