Connection Terminal Release Mechanism for Tool-Free Wire Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal blocks require tools for releasing the clamping leg, complicating the connection and disconnection of electrical conductors.
Innovation Solution
A terminal block with a user-operated release actuating element that allows the clamping arm to be easily released from the release position using a separate release element, which interacts with the electrical conductor to automatically move into the clamping position, facilitated by a spring element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device is used to secure the clamping arm in release position, then the clamping arm can be held reliably in release position, but a tool is required to release the locking mechanism, complicating the connection process
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is designed to be automatically actuated by the inserted electrical conductor itself. When the conductor is inserted into the terminal block, it directly interacts with the release section of the release element, causing the release element to move from its detent position and trigger the clamping arm to move from release position to clamping position. This eliminates the need for external tools or manual intervention to release the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The release element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the inserted electrical conductor and the clamping arm. It translates the insertion action of the conductor into the movement required to release the clamping arm from its locked position. The release element with its release section serves as the mediating component that converts the conductor's insertion motion into the triggering action needed to move the clamping arm.
2Ease of operation
If the clamping arm is held in release position by a locking device, then the conductor can be easily inserted, but the device complexity increases due to the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The release element is integrated into the existing structure of the terminal block, combining the locking and releasing functions within a single compact component. The release element with its detent section and release section merges the holding function (keeping clamping arm in release position) and the releasing function (triggering clamping arm movement) into one unified mechanism, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking and releasing functions are automated through the self-actuating mechanism. The release element automatically locks the clamping arm in release position and automatically releases it when the conductor is inserted, eliminating the need for separate manual locking and unlocking operations or complex control systems.
3Reliability
If a tool is required to move the clamping arm to release position, then the clamping connection is secure, but the disconnection process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnection process is automated through the self-actuating release mechanism. When the electrical conductor is inserted, it automatically triggers the release element to move from its detent position, which in turn automatically moves the clamping arm from release position to clamping position, establishing the electrical connection. For disconnection, the actuating element can be operated to automatically return the clamping arm to release position, eliminating the need for tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic self-actuating state. The release element is designed to be movable between detent position and released position, and the clamping arm is designed to be movable between release position and clamping position. This dynamic design allows automatic transitions between connected and disconnected states without requiring external tools or manual intervention.
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 effortless connection and disconnection of electrical conductors without tools, ensuring reliable contact and minimizing installation space.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element in the form of a tension spring is provided, which, by means of elastic spring action, pulls a connected electrical conductor into contact with an associated contact element
Implementation Method 2
the clamping arm of the spring element can be deflected elastically by actuating the actuator. This deflects the clamping arm into a release position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A terminal block (1) comprises a housing (10) having a plug-in opening (100) into which the electrical conductor (2) can be inserted for connection to the terminal block (1). A contact element (11) for electrical contact with the electrical conductor (2) is arranged on the housing (10). An actuating element (14) is movable relative to the housing (10) for adjusting a clamping leg (120) of a spring element (12). A release element (13), adjustable relative to the housing (10), has a release section (130). The clamping leg (120) is latched to the release element (13) in the release position. When the release element (13) is latched to the clamping leg (120), it assumes a detent position relative to the housing (10).A user-operated release actuating element (15) is operatively connected to the release element (13) and is adjustable relative to the housing (10) in order to release the release element (13) from the detent position.