Conducting Terminal With Resilient Element And End Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical terminals face connectivity issues due to poor mating arrangements caused by tolerance variations and degradation from repeated use, leading to loose or insecure connections with removable connectors.
Innovation Solution
An electrical terminal design featuring a recessed end with a resilient conducting element and a snap-fit end cap that provides an interference fit and secures the resilient element, preventing removal and ensuring consistent connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard electrical terminal design is used, then the structure is simple, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to tolerance variations and degradation from repeated use
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is divided into multiple functional segments: a body portion, a resilient element, and an end cap. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the body provides structural support, the resilient element maintains contact pressure, and the end cap secures the resilient element - thereby improving connection reliability without requiring a completely complex new design
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient element introduces dynamic characteristics to the terminal structure. It can elastically deform to accommodate tolerance variations in the connector mating and maintain consistent contact pressure despite degradation from repeated use. This dynamic capability compensates for dimensional variations and wear, improving reliability without adding significant structural complexity
2Ease of repair
If the resilient element is made removable for maintenance, then the ease of repair is improved, but the connection stability deteriorates due to potential loosening or degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The end cap is pre-configured with retention features such as snap-fit mechanisms or interference fits that securely hold the resilient element in place during normal operation. This preliminary securing action ensures connection stability while still allowing the resilient element to be removed when needed for maintenance by overcoming the retention features
Solution Approach 2:
The end cap acts as a flexible retaining structure that can accommodate the resilient element's elastic deformation while maintaining secure engagement. The end cap's design allows it to flex slightly during insertion and removal operations, providing ease of repair, while maintaining rigid retention during stable operation to ensure connection stability
3Reliability
If the end cap is made of conducting material, then the electrical connectivity is improved, but the risk of short circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end cap is designed with localized conducting regions only where electrical connectivity is required, such as at the contact interface with the connector. The remaining portions of the end cap are made of non-conducting material, providing electrical insulation. This local quality approach ensures reliable electrical connection where needed while minimizing short circuit risk in other areas
Solution Approach 2:
The end cap serves as an intermediary component between the resilient element and the external environment. It provides mechanical retention for the resilient element while its insulating properties protect against unwanted electrical paths. The conducting portions of the end cap act as controlled intermediaries for electrical connection, isolating the resilient element from direct exposure to potential short circuit conditions
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 enhances the reliability and security of electrical connections by maintaining contact integrity despite tolerance variations and repeated use, ensuring stable and efficient electrical connectivity.
Implementation Method 1
the conducting element having a first opening with a second width to provide an interference fit with the connector
Implementation Method 2
an end cap positioned within the first recessed end outboard of the resilient conducting element to secure the resilient conducting element within the recessed end
Implementation Method 3
the end cap includes a resilient snap finger, the resilient snap finger interlocking with a channel of the connector to secure the end cap within the recessed end
Implementation Method 4
an electrically conducting body having a recessed end
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically conducting terminal having capabilities to facilitate electrically connecting to one or more connectors is disclosed. The electrically conducting terminal may include a recessed end to receive a connector. The recessed end may include a resilient element, such as but not limited to a female contact, to facilitate electrical conductivity between the connector and the terminal. The electrically conducting terminal may include an end cap, end piece, or other feature to facilitate retaining the resilient element within the recessed end.