Tool-less Terminal Block Turning Part Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional terminal blocks require the use of a screwdriver or tool to press an elastic plate, making the wiring operation inconvenient and potentially damaging the device.

Innovation Solution

A tool-less terminal block design featuring a turning part that pivots to drive a movable elastic arm away from a conductive terminal, allowing for tool-free operation by rotating the turning part to open a slot for wire insertion and connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a screwdriver or tool is used to press the elastic plate for wiring, then the terminal block can be assembled, but the operation becomes inconvenient and the device may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring operation convenienceVSAvoiddevice damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal block incorporates a turning part that enables the elastic plate to be pressed and released through a simple rotational motion, eliminating the need for external tools like screwdrivers. The device serves itself by integrating the actuation mechanism directly into the terminal block structure, allowing users to perform wiring operations conveniently without risking device damage from improper tool usage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic plate is designed to be dynamically controllable through the turning part, transitioning between pressed and released states. This dynamic mechanism allows the terminal block to adapt to different wiring needs while maintaining ease of operation and preventing device damage through controlled, tool-free actuation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a screwdriver or tool is required for wiring, then the terminal block can be assembled, but the device complexity increases and operation becomes less convenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring operation convenienceVSAvoidterminal block structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The turning part and elastic plate mechanism are merged into a single integrated assembly within the terminal block. This combination allows the device to achieve tool-free operation while maintaining a compact and relatively simple structure, avoiding the need for separate external tools and reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This design eliminates the need for tools, enhances convenience, and prevents damage to the terminal block by allowing easy rotation of the turning part to open and close the slot for wire connection, improving user efficiency and safety.

Implementation Method 1

a spring clamp, accommodated in the cavity and disposed at the top of the conductive terminal, and having a movable elastic arm pressing on the conductive terminal to seal the slot

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a link rod extending from the movable elastic arm and fixed to the turning part and operable together with the turning part; wherein, when the turning part is rotated to a released position, the link rod is pulled by the turning part to drive the movable elastic arm away from the conductive terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force transmission: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS11575219B2Tool-less terminal block
Publication Date: 2023.02.07 DINKLE ENTERPRISE CO LTD
  • US11575219B2 patent drawing
  • US11575219B2 patent drawing
  • US11575219B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tool-less terminal block includes an insulated base, a turning part, a conductive terminal, and a spring clamp. The insulated base has a cavity and a slot communicating to the cavity; the turning part is pivotally coupled to the insulated base; the conductive terminal is fixed to the bottom of the slot; the spring clamp is accommodated in the cavity and disposed at the top of the conductive terminal, and the spring clamp has a movable elastic arm pressing the conductive terminal to seal the slot, and the movable elastic arm has a link rod fixed to the turning part and operable together with the turning part. When the turning part is turned to a released position, the link rod is pulled by the turning part to drive the movable elastic arm away from the conductive terminal to open the slot, so as to provide a convenient use.