Connection Terminal Release Lock for Tool-Free Cable Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection terminals require complex adjustments and tools to move the clamping leg into a release position, making it difficult to easily insert or remove electrical cables, and lack a space-efficient design for this functionality.
Innovation Solution
A connection terminal with a separate triggering element that locks the clamping leg in the release position, allowing it to be held without tools, and automatically releases when an electrical line is inserted, enabling easy insertion and removal of cables with minimal force, and a space-saving arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tool is used to adjust the clamping leg directly (as in DE 10 2019 127 464 B3), then the clamping leg can be moved into the release position, but the operation becomes complex and requires additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary actuating element (pusher) that mediates between the user's manual input and the clamping leg. This pusher element transfers the actuating force from the user to the clamping leg, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The intermediary element converts manual pressing motion into the required clamping leg displacement.
2Ease of operation
If a pusher element with spring loading is used (as in DE 10 2019 135 203 A1), then the clamping leg can be adjusted without tools, but the device occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the spring loading function from the actuating element itself and replaces it with a direct manual actuation mechanism. By removing the spring component and associated loading mechanism, the design achieves tool-free operation through simple manual pressing while significantly reducing the space required for the actuating mechanism. The clamping leg is moved into the release position through direct mechanical action rather than spring-mediated action.
3Device complexity
If the clamping leg is held in release position without a locking mechanism, then the design is simpler, but the clamping leg cannot be reliably held in position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-locking mechanism where the actuating element itself provides the locking function. When the actuating element is pressed into the actuated position, it mechanically locks the clamping leg in the release position through its own structural features. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate locking components while ensuring reliable positioning of the clamping leg.
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 solution simplifies the connection process by allowing cables to be inserted or removed without significant force and maintains a space-efficient design, ensuring reliable electrical contact through the clamping effect.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (12) for clamping the electrical line (2) to the contact element (11) in order to electrically connect the electrical line (2) to the contact element (11), wherein the clamping leg (120) is designed to be movable relative to the housing (10)
Implementation Method 2
the trigger section (130) is designed to cooperate with the electrical line (2) when plugged into the plug opening (100) to release the clamping leg (120) from the release position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A terminal block (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (2) comprises a housing (10), a contact element (11) arranged on the housing (10), a spring element (12) arranged on the housing (10) which has a clamping arm (120) for acting on the electrical conductor (2), and an actuating element (14) pivotably arranged on the housing (10) about a pivot axis (D) and which is adjustable for adjusting the clamping arm (120). The clamping arm (120) is elastically adjustable relative to the housing (10) by actuating the actuating element (14). An additional release element (13) which is adjustable to the housing (10) and which is mounted on the spring element (12) has a release section (130), wherein the clamping leg (120) is designed to lock into the release element (13) in the release position, so that the clamping leg (120) is held in the release position.The release section (130) is designed to cooperate with the electrical line (2) to release the clamping leg (120) from the release position when inserted into the plug opening (100).