Terminal Strip With Segmented Functional Shafts for Simultaneous Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional terminal blocks are limited in functionality and flexibility as they can only accommodate either plug-in connections or screw connections per connection side, restricting user assembly options and increasing the complexity of switching and testing tasks in applications like current transformer measuring circuits.
Innovation Solution
The terminal block design features a housing with separate functional shafts for plug-in and screw connections on each side, allowing for simultaneous use of both types of connections, enhanced by a partition wall and guide groove for improved guidance and separation, enabling flexible assembly and increased functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If only one type of connection (plug-in or screw) is provided per connection side, then the device structure remains simple, but the functionality and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection side is segmented into multiple functional shafts (first functional shaft for plug-in connections, second functional shaft for screw connections), allowing different connection types to coexist on the same side without creating a complex monolithic structure
Solution Approach 2:
Each connection side becomes universal by accommodating multiple connection types (both plug-in and screw connections) through separate functional shafts, enabling the terminal block to serve diverse wiring needs without requiring multiple separate devices
2Area of stationary object
If functional shafts are placed close together, then the device compactness is improved, but interference between plug-in and screw connections occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A partition wall is introduced as an intermediary structure between the first functional shaft and second functional shaft, providing physical separation and guidance that prevents interference between plug-in and screw connections while maintaining compact overall dimensions
3Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal block accommodates multiple connection types simultaneously, then the flexibility increases, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block is segmented into independent functional shafts for different connection types, allowing users to assemble only the required connection types (plug-in, screw, or both) without being constrained by a fixed configuration, thus maintaining flexibility while simplifying assembly decisions
Data Source
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AI summary
The subject of the invention is a terminal strip (12) for latching onto a mounting rail (11), having a terminal housing (13) that has a first connection side (14) and a second connection side (15), a busbar (17) arranged in the terminal housing (13) and at least two conductor connection elements (19), arranged in the terminal housing (13), for connecting in each case at least one conductor to the busbar (17), wherein in each case a first function shaft (21) having at least one plug-connection receiving region (23a, 23b) and at least a second function shaft (22) having at least one screw-connection receiving region (24) are arranged on each of the two connection sides (14, 15) of the terminal housing (13), wherein one connection region is formed for each plug-connection receiving region (23a, 23b) and for each screw-connection receiving region (24) in the busbar (17), wherein the function shafts (21, 22) of one connection side (14, 15) are arranged in a manner spaced apart from one another such that at least one plug connection is receivable in the first function shaft (21) and at least one screw connection is receivable in the second function shaft (22) simultaneously on one connection side (14, 15).