Test Terminal Block Dual-Latch Removal Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test terminal blocks face issues with unstable or undefined electronic states during the removal of test plug blocks, as the sequence of contact area opening can lead to unsafe or improper current transfer, especially when the plug is pulled out quickly or unevenly, resulting in potential current transfer issues.
Innovation Solution
The test terminal block design incorporates two locking elements and counter-locking elements in the fastening clamps, allowing for two latching positions: a fully plugged-in position and a partially pulled-out position, with an unlocking element that can be moved into different positions to ensure secure and controlled removal, reducing manual pulling forces and preventing accidental disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the test plug block is pulled out quickly or unevenly, then the removal process is faster, but the electronic state becomes unstable or undefined leading to unsafe current transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a preliminary action mechanism through the unlocking element that must be activated before the test plug block can be removed. This preliminary unlocking step ensures that the separation points are properly opened before physical removal, preventing unstable electronic states during quick or uneven pulling operations
Solution Approach 2:
The unlocking element acts as an intermediary between the user's removal action and the actual separation of the test plug block. It mediates the removal process by controlling the sequence of operations: first unlocking the fastening clamp, then allowing controlled separation, thereby ensuring stable electronic state transitions even during rapid removal
2Ease of operation
If the test plug block is removed without controlled separation, then the removal process is simpler, but unintended current transfer occurs due to unstable electronic states
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening clamp with its fastening part must be unlocked before the test plug block can be separated from the terminal block. This preliminary unlocking action ensures that the separation points are properly opened in a controlled manner, preventing unintended current transfer that would occur with direct, uncontrolled removal
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening clamp design allows the unlocking element to automatically control the separation sequence. Once unlocked, the test plug block can be removed without requiring additional manual intervention to control the separation, combining simplicity with safety through the self-regulating mechanism
3Ease of operation
If manual pulling force is applied directly to remove the test plug block, then the removal can be performed, but excessive force is required and accidental disconnection may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The unlocking element serves as a mechanical intermediary that reduces the force required for removal. By unlocking the fastening clamp first, it creates a controlled separation mechanism that gradually reduces the bonding force between the test plug block and terminal block, allowing removal with minimal manual force and reducing the risk of accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening clamp transitions from a locked state with high bonding force to an unlocked state with reduced bonding force. This dynamic change in the fastening mechanism allows the system to adapt to the removal process, requiring minimal force in the final separation stage while maintaining secure connection during operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A test terminal block (1) is presented and described, consisting of a series terminal block (2) and a test plug block (3) pluggable onto the series terminal block (2), wherein the series terminal block (2) has a plurality of series terminals (4) arranged one alongside the other and a fastening clamp (5) on either side of the plurality of series terminals (4). The test plug block (3) has a plurality of test plugs (6) connected to one another and a fastening part (7) on either side of the plurality of test plugs (6), the two fastening parts (7) being connected to one another via a handle piece (8). Each series terminal (4) has two current bars (9) which together form a separation point, and each test plug (6) has a contact plug (10) insertable into a separation point. The two fastening clamps (5) each have a clamp housing (11) with a receiving portion (12) and the two fastening parts (7) each have a housing (14) with a corresponding insertion portion (15) insertable into the receiving portion (12). Secure and defined contact conditions for the test terminal block when the test plug block (3) is pulled out of the series terminal block (2) are assured by virtue of the following: the clamp housing (11) of each of the two fastening clamps (5) contains at least two catch elements (16, 17) and the housing (14) of each of the two fastening parts (7) has at least two corresponding mating catch elements (18, 19), which catch elements (16, 17) and mating catch elements (18, 19) together determine two interlocking positions of the fastening parts (7) in the fastening clamps (5), one position arranged after the other in the plug-on direction of the fastening parts (7); and an unlocking element (20) is movably arranged in the housing (14) of each of the two fastening parts (7), which unlocking element can be brought into a first unlocking position and a second unlocking position, the locking of the first interlocking position being released in the first unlocking position and the locking of the second interlocking position being released in the second unlocking position by the unlocking element (20).