Universal Cable Clamp for Low-Voltage Switch Terminal Boards

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Solution Overview

Problem

Low-voltage switches, particularly those in fixed and withdrawable configurations, face complex wiring challenges due to different accessory types and configurations, leading to increased costs and component complexity when transitioning between fixed and withdrawable setups.

Innovation Solution

A connection device with a universal cable clamp system that allows for simplified connection of accessories to a single terminal board, using geometrically conjugate half-shells and conductive means for electrical connection, enabling the same cable clamps to be used in both fixed and withdrawable configurations, and interposition means for secure mechanical and electrical coupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different wiring systems are used for fixed and withdrawable switches, then each configuration can be optimized for its specific requirements, but the complexity of wiring and connections increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration-specific optimizationVSAvoidwiring complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single terminal board structure that serves both fixed and withdrawable switch configurations. The terminal board includes a supporting structure with cable clamps that can accommodate different cable arrangements and connection types, eliminating the need for separate wiring systems for each configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conversion from fixed to withdrawable switch is performed, then the switch functionality is updated, but re-adaptation of accessory connections is necessary

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch configuration conversionVSAvoidconnection re-adaptation effort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-designing the terminal board with a universal structure that anticipates both fixed and withdrawable configurations. The cable clamps and supporting structure are configured in advance to accommodate different cable types and connection methods, so that when conversion is needed, no re-adaptation work is required - the same terminal board handles both configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If two distinct wiring systems are provided for fixed and withdrawable switches, then each system can be optimized, but costs increase due to component duplication

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvededicated wiring systemsVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies merging by combining the functions of separate terminal boards for fixed and withdrawable switches into a single universal terminal board. The supporting structure integrates cable clamps and connection terminals that can handle both configuration types, thereby reducing component duplication and lowering overall costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP1884000B1Connection device for low-voltage switches
Publication Date: 2014.05.07 ABB SPA
  • EP1884000B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1884000B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1884000B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a connection device for low- voltage switches (1), which is particularly suited for low-voltage automatic switches both in the fixed version and in the withdrawable version. The device comprises a first terminal board (10) positioned on a corresponding switch (1) and comprising a plurality of terminals for electrical connection to one or more devices or accessories inside the switch and one or more cable clamps (20) for connection between said terminals and one or more corresponding connection cables. The cable clamp (20) comprises a shaped body (201) having a first end (202) shaped to couple mechanically and electrically with the first terminal board (10). Said shaped body (201) has a first opening (203) for insertion of a first connection cable and comprises conductive means (204) positioned inside for electrical connection between the terminals of the terminal board (10) and a corresponding connection cable.