Universal Terminal Connector for Compact Multi-Cable PCB Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices for lighting systems face limitations in providing versatile, compact, and cost-effective connection options for various cables, requiring multiple terminals and additional connection systems like LINECT connectors to facilitate easy and quick connections.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a circuit board, contact pins, and a terminal connector system that includes first and second conductor connection terminals and a plug-in connector, allowing for flexible connection of cables with or without plug-in connectors, and integrating LINECT connectors for direct connection to the circuit board, reducing the need for additional wiring and parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple special terminals are provided for different connections (screw terminals, spring terminals, plug-in connectors), then connection versatility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal terminal structure that can accommodate multiple connection types (screw connections, spring connections, and plug-in connector connections) through a single integrated design. The terminal includes a receiving space with different connection regions that can adapt to various cable types and connector formats, eliminating the need for multiple specialized terminals while maintaining connection versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal is divided into functional segments including a first connection region for screw/spring terminals and a second connection region for plug-in connectors. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific connection type while being integrated into a unified terminal structure, reducing overall device complexity
2Productivity
If dedicated connection systems like LINECT connectors are introduced to reduce mounting time, then connection speed is improved, but device complexity and part quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dedicated connection system functionality directly into the terminal structure by integrating a receiving space that accommodates plug-in connectors. This integration eliminates the need for separate dedicated connection systems while maintaining the rapid connection capability, as the plug-in connector can be directly inserted into the terminal's receiving space without additional components
3Volume of moving object
If the electronic device is made flat or slim to meet design requirements, then device compactness is improved, but terminal size and cable connection capability are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by creating a receiving space within the terminal structure that can accommodate plug-in connectors and cables of various sizes. The terminal design incorporates vertical and lateral dimensions for cable reception while maintaining a compact footprint, allowing the device to remain slim while supporting versatile cable connections through optimized spatial arrangement
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
Enables easy, compact, and cost-effective connection options for multiple cables and devices, reducing manufacturing parts and time, while maintaining a compact size and secure connections through clamping springs and actuating elements.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the first conductor connection terminal and the second conductor connection terminal can comprise a clamping spring for clamping the contact pin or the electrical conductor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electronic device comprising a circuit board (8), at least one contact pin (9a..9e) connected to a pole of the circuit board (8), a terminal connector (3) comprising at least one terminal connector unit and a housing (2a..2d) that at least partially encloses the circuit board (8) and the terminal connector (3), wherein each connecting unit comprises a first conductor connection terminal (14), a second conductor connection terminal (13) and a plug-in connector terminal (4) and is configured to electrically connect, to the contact pin (9a..9e) connected to the first conductor connection terminal (14), an electrical conductor connected to the second conductor connection terminal (13) and at least one contact of a plug-in connector connected to at least one contact of the plug-in connector terminal (4), and the housing (2a..2d) has an opening through which the plug-in connector terminal (4) and/or the plug-in connector connected to the plug-in connector terminal (4) extends at least partially.