terminal block

Abstract

The present invention relates to a terminal block for connecting electrical conductors to a busbar, wherein the terminal block has an insulating housing, a busbar and a clamping spring, and wherein the clamping spring has a clamping leg and a support leg supported on the busbar, the clamping leg and the support leg being connected to each other by a spring bow, wherein the support leg has an elastic, deflectable spring section extending from the spring bow behind a support portion of the support leg located on the busbar, the spring section having a collision ramp for guiding the conductor to be connected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a terminal block for connecting electrical conductors to a busbar. The terminal block has an insulating housing, a busbar, and a clamping spring. The clamping spring has clamping legs and supporting legs supported on the busbar. The clamping legs and supporting legs are connected to each other by a spring bow. Background Technology

[0002] Such terminal blocks are known from the prior art. According to DE 197 35 786 A1, in electrical conductors made of aluminum and aluminum alloys, contact force decreases due to creep, leading to the development of a terminal block with two contact legs that jointly load the conductor guided into the terminal block. In this configuration, the contact leg's contact surface against the conductor is arched, while the other support leg's contact surface strikes the conductor with a sharp edge. Overall, the terminal block according to DE197 35 786 A1 should produce a stronger contact and improved force distribution to prevent conductor pinching.

[0003] CN 102354831 A discloses a spring-force clamping terminal for clamping an electrical conductor to a busbar, wherein an annular clamping spring has clamping legs with clamping edges, the clamping legs pointing towards the electrical conductor. A second clamping leg is annularly bent back from the clamping leg against the direction of conductor introduction. The second clamping leg forms another arc-shaped contact point with the conductor. Furthermore, the free end of the second clamping leg acts on the first clamping leg in a spring-force assisted manner.

[0004] DE 20 2011 110 604 U1 describes a spring-loaded contact element and an electrical connector having such a spring-loaded contact element. The spring-loaded contact element has two end regions and an intermediate region between said end regions, said end regions being capable of forming two contact areas that contact an abutting contact pin. The spring-loaded contact element is geometrically shaped such that an acute angle is formed between one contact area and the intermediate region, and an obtuse angle is formed between the other contact area and the intermediate region. In this way, two contact points should be able to be established in a narrow configuration by means of a spring clip.

[0005] According to WO 2017 / 081001 A1, a compact connector clip should be proposed, wherein the connector clip is a double-terminal having two wire inlet openings and two spring-forced clamping connectors. In this case, the extended end sections of the support legs of the first and / or second clamping springs are suspended in the through-holes of the busbar so as to secure the clamping springs using a particularly compact busbar. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In this context, the object of the present invention is to provide a terminal block with a compact construction and improved contact.

[0007] The objective is achieved by a terminal block according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the terminal block are described below.

[0008] The clamping spring's support leg begins at the spring bow, and after the support leg's support portion on the busbar, it has a resilient, deflectable spring section, said spring section having a collision ramp for guiding the wire to be connected.

[0009] Therefore, a terminal block is provided by means of which the wire to be connected not only reliably contacts and clamps the clamping leg, but also reliably contacts and clamps the spring section of the supporting leg. Due to the deflectability and elasticity of the spring section, wires of different diameters can be reliably held and subjected to sufficient spring force. Due to the deflectability of the spring section, wires with large cross-sections or diameters will be subjected to sufficient spring force on one side of the clamping leg and the spring section, and the wire will not suffer undesirable deformation, such as from squeezing, pressing, pressing, clamping, or shoving. However, wires with small cross-sections or diameters are also contacted and clamped particularly firmly due to the smaller deflection of the spring section and clamping leg caused by the introduced wire. As the wire collides with the impact ramp, different contact overlaps will occur depending on the wire cross-section and wire diameter.

[0010] In this application, the indefinite article “a / one” should be understood as an indefinite article rather than a numeral, and its literal meaning is “at least one”.

[0011] Due to the elasticity of the spring section, the impact ramp is optimally matched to each wire introduced into the terminal block, as the spring section deflects according to the wire diameter, thus optimally positioning the impact ramp itself. The deflection of the spring section and the spring force are related to the cross-section of the introduced wire. Wires with smaller cross-sections result in smaller deflection and smaller clamping force of the spring section. Wires with larger cross-sections result in larger deflection and larger clamping force of the spring section. Here, the clamping force is understood as a force acting on another object in the normal direction and derived by multiplying pressure by area when the load is uniformly distributed. Therefore, the function of the impact ramp is no longer related to the wire insertion force, but rather to the spring force of the spring section, making the introduction of the electrical wire easier.

[0012] Despite the wide range of wire cross-sections and conductor diameters that can be associated with the terminals according to the invention, a solution with a compact construction is provided, featuring simple clamping spring and bus geometry. Therefore, the terminals are also suitable for applications with limited structural space and space constraints. Furthermore, the terminals can be manufactured simply and at low cost, especially due to the uncomplicated clamping spring and bus structure, and can also be pre-installed as contact inserts. The contact inserts can be easily inserted against the demolding direction of the insulating housing, thus simplifying and accelerating the installation of the terminals.

[0013] The elastic, deflectable spring section of the support leg is located in the region between the free end of the support leg and the spring bow, more specifically, in the region between the free end of the support leg and the support portion of the support leg on the busbar. Thus, a portion of the support leg, constituting part of the spring section, can be displaced relative to its initial position. This displacement resists the spring force of the spring section, thereby generating a prestress within the spring section, which acts as a spring force on the conductor abutting the spring section. Other portions of the support leg, such as the section between the spring bow and the support portion of the support leg on the busbar, may also possess a degree of elasticity or deflectability. However, in principle, other portions of the support leg away from the spring section can also have higher stiffness than those within the spring section, in order to achieve stable clamping spring abutting against the busbar and / or insulating housing support.

[0014] Starting from the support on the busbar, the spring section can extend from the support point to the free end to achieve the highest possible elasticity and deflectability of the spring section. However, the spring section can also be spaced apart from the support point and / or from the free end to provide a more stable support leg.

[0015] Inside the terminal block, the clamping spring is configured such that, viewed along the wire introduction direction, the free end of the support leg is positioned behind the free end of the clamping leg. Therefore, the clamping leg is positioned closer to the wire introduction opening than the support leg. In other words, the clamping leg is the leg of the clamping spring facing the wire introduction opening, while the support leg is the leg of the clamping spring facing away from the wire introduction opening.

[0016] In principle, various geometric shapes can be considered for busbars. Therefore, the first section of the busbar can extend substantially parallel to the direction of conductor introduction, while the second section extends from the first section at an angle, for example, laterally to the first section. The first and second sections can have an approximately T-shaped geometry. The second section can also extend from the first section at an acute or obtuse angle. The end of the second section facing away from the first section can transition into the third section of the busbar, which extends substantially parallel to the direction of conductor introduction on the side of the insulating housing opposite the introduced conductor.

[0017] The support portion of the support leg on the busbar can be implemented in various ways, wherein the busbar can be configured as either a fixed support or a floating support for the support leg. To support the support leg, the busbar, particularly the second section of the busbar, can have a recess through which the support leg of the clamping spring is guided, such that the support leg is supported on the second section of the busbar. The busbar can have other recesses, and can also support, for example, the clamping leg of the clamping spring.

[0018] In addition to the support portion of the support leg on the busbar, the clamping spring can also have other support points within the terminal block. For example, the support leg and / or spring bow can be placed on or rest against the inner surface of the insulating housing.

[0019] The impact ramp of the spring section is used to guide the wire to be connected. The impact ramp is a support surface positioned at an angle to the introduced wire. This positioning reduces the introduction resistance, allowing the wire to gradually impact the support leg, thus facilitating easy wire introduction. The reduced introduction resistance is further improved by the elastic deflectability of the spring section, as the position and angle of the impact ramp are adapted to the corresponding introduced wire. In the non-deflected state, the impact ramp can, for example, form an angle between 30 and 60 degrees with the introduced wire, while in the deflected state, it forms an angle between 10 and 40 degrees with the wire.

[0020] The spring sections of the supporting legs and the clamping legs of the clamping springs can establish contact points forming clamping areas between the connectable electrical conductors and the busbars, respectively. The clamping area should be understood as the region of electrical contact between the connecting element, such as the busbar, and the electrical conductor. Because there are always two contact points when a conductor is introduced—one formed by the spring sections and the other by the clamping legs—the reliability of the contact and the overall pressure per unit area acting on the conductor are improved. Clearly, the clamping force of the spring sections and clamping legs can be distributed to the other contact points through a suitable leg shape.

[0021] The spring section of the clamping spring's support leg can have an end stop for the conductor. This ensures reliable chamber separation in the case of multi-terminal blocks, such as double-terminal blocks. Furthermore, the length of the introduced conductor section is limited, and the conductor end is protected from contact with other terminal components. The one-piece formation of the end stop and the clamping spring's support leg provides a particularly simple design for the conductor stop, as it does not need to be provided through other costly manufactured components, such as an insulating housing. This also positively impacts the feasibility of demolding at the tooling location and the feasible installation techniques. The end stop itself, like the rest of the spring section, can have elastic deflectability to optimally fit the introduced conductor and reduce introduction resistance. However, for stable stopping function, it is meaningful for the end stop to have a higher rigidity than the rest of the spring section.

[0022] Due to the elastic deflectability of the spring section, the impact ramp and the end stop work together advantageously. The impact ramp displaces or yields to the introduced wire, allowing it to be guided to the end stop with minimal resistance. In conventional clamping spring structures with relatively stiff impact ramps, the wire can become stuck at the ramp, and can only be guided to the possible stop with increased insertion force, at the cost of contact overlap. However, in the present case, the displaceability of the spring section ensures that the end stop can be reached even with low insertion force. Furthermore, by displacing the spring section in relation to the wire diameter, it is ensured that the wire end contacts the end stop and does not detour around it, as might happen in cases where the wire diameter is small and the end stop is integrally formed with the insulating housing.

[0023] The busbar and / or insulating housing can have recesses, recesses, or openings for accommodating end stops. Thus, end stops can be configured to be larger or longer than those with terminals that close in the area of ​​the conductor rail and / or the insulating housing. Therefore, in the undeflected state, the end stop can be at least partially recessed into the busbar and / or insulating housing. This recessable end stop contributes to a more compact configuration. Even when the introduced conductor has a small line diameter, where the spring section may only deflect slightly if necessary, the end stop can still be at least partially accommodated by the busbar and / or insulating housing. By being at least partially accommodated in the busbar and / or insulating housing, another support point is provided for the clamping spring, thereby mechanically stabilizing the support leg of the clamping spring as a whole. Due to the recesses, recesses, or openings in the busbar and / or insulating housing, a wider range of conductor diameters suitable for the terminals can be achieved through larger, potentially extended portions of the end stops. Therefore, reliable chamber separation can be ensured even for larger diameter conductors in multi-terminal blocks.

[0024] The end stop can be directly connected to the impact ramp of the spring section of the support leg. This provides a particularly short and compact configuration for the clamping spring. The impact ramp transitions directly into the end stop and delivers the inserted electrical wire directly to the stop.

[0025] The end stop can extend from the impact ramp at a certain angle. It is advantageous, considering the angle of attack of the impact ramp relative to the introduced conductor, that the end stop extends from the impact ramp at an obtuse angle. The angle between the end stop and the impact ramp results in the end stop extending laterally, i.e., at a right angle, relative to the direction of conductor introduction. Thus, the conductor end of the introduced conductor uniformly contacts the surface of the end stop.

[0026] A shoulder (Absatz) can also be provided on the spring section of the support leg between the end stop and the impact ramp, the shoulder extending substantially perpendicular to the end stop. This shoulder, forming a right-angled receiving portion for the conductor together with the end stop, optimally matches the typical cylindrical or rectangular shape of the conductor end. Compared to the impact ramp, the introduced conductor is straighter and more reliably positioned on the shoulder. Improved conductor guidance is achieved even when the spring section deflects significantly due to a larger conductor diameter.

[0027] A busbar can have a raised portion oriented toward the conductor at at least one contact point, which forms a clamping portion for connectable electrical conductors. The raised portion is understood as the material on which the busbar is constructed. The raised portion can be, for example, a protrusion, a shoulder, an arch, or an augmentation. The raised portion can appear as the cross-section of the busbar increases or shifts. Improved contact between the busbar and the conductor is achieved through the raised portion at the contact point. A concentrated and focused current flows through the clearly defined contact point. The busbar can have raised portions related to the number of contact points. Therefore, at two contact points formed by the spring sections of the clamping legs and support legs respectively, for example, two raised portions can exist. However, it is also conceivable to provide fewer raised portions than contact points, so that, for example, a more concentrated current flows only on the clamping legs or spring sections. The busbar has an advantageously present bulge in a first section of the busbar, the first section extending substantially parallel to the direction of conductor introduction, and the introduced conductor abutting and contacting the first section.

[0028] The spring section of the support leg can have a bend between the impact ramp and the support section located at the busbar. This bend can be understood as a change in direction or extension of the support leg in the region of the bend or in the region representing the bend point. Currently, this bend point forms a defined rotation point around which the spring section can deflect. A transition from a stiffer section of the support leg to a more elastic, deflectable section of the support leg can also occur at the bend point. Multiple bends can also be provided, giving the spring section a multi-bending direction. In confined spaces, the multiple bends effectively extend the spring section, thereby increasing the achievable spring force or elasticity.

[0029] The clamping leg of the clamping spring can have a bend between its free end and the spring bow. In this case, the free end of the clamping leg extends steeper in the busbar direction than the section of the clamping leg extending in the direction of the spring bow. This steeper extension creates a clamping edge on the introduced wire, concentrating the pressure onto a smaller surface, thereby improving current flow. Furthermore, the width of the clamping spring in the wire introduction direction is reduced, resulting in a shorter terminal configuration. The free end of the clamping leg can extend steeper in the direction of the first section of the busbar, which extends substantially parallel to the wire introduction direction, and the introduced wire abuts and contacts at the first section.

[0030] The length of the clamping leg from the apex of the spring bow to its free end can correspond to the length of the supporting leg from the apex of the spring bow to the starting point of the impact ramp. Because the clamping leg can be elastically deflected according to the diameter of the introduced wire, according to this embodiment, the impact ramp does not hinder the deflection and displacement of the clamping leg. This supports a large achievable range of wire diameters that can be used with terminals.

[0031] The terminal block can be configured as a double connector with a preferred symmetrical structure, wherein the busbar and clamping spring in one half are respectively arranged substantially mirror-images of each other and are surrounded by a common insulating housing. In this case, the spatial advantages achieved according to the invention are particularly effective, as the compactness of the terminal structure works on both sides of the double device. In the symmetrical case, the installation of the double connector is further simplified, since there are no structural differences between the two connection sides and only the mirror-like nature of the two connection sides needs to be considered during manufacturing.

[0032] When the terminal block is configured as a double connector, especially based on a terminal block with two opposite wire inlet openings, that is, the wires are successively introduced into the terminal block from both sides in opposite wire inlet directions.

[0033] According to this application, the multi-terminal block is not limited to a two-connector, but also includes, for example, a three-connector, wherein three electrical wires are inserted in a T-shape in succession. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. The following is an illustrative representation:

[0035] Figure 1 A cross-section of a terminal block is shown in one embodiment;

[0036] Figure 2 A cross-section of the terminal block is shown in another embodiment;

[0037] Figure 3 The cross-section of a terminal block configured as a double connector and an inserted wire is shown.

[0038] Figure 4 The cross-section of the terminal block configured as a double connector and the two inserted wires is shown.

[0039] Figure 5 A side view of the terminal block in the direction of wire insertion is shown;

[0040] Figure 6 A cross-section of the terminal block is shown in another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Figure 1 The cross-section of terminal 1 is shown. The conductor 2 can be inserted along the conductor introduction direction R as schematically shown. L The wire 2 is introduced into terminal 1. It can be seen that the wire 2 is still in the introduction section, not yet reaching its final position in terminal 1. The wire 2 can be a single-core or multi-core wire. Advantageously, the insulation at the end of the wire 2 is stripped to ensure sufficient electrical contact in terminal 1. Terminal 1 has a busbar 3 as a conductive component, which should be electrically connected to the introduced wire 2. The busbar 3 can have multiple sections 3a, 3b, 3c. The first section 3a is substantially parallel to the wire introduction direction R. L Extension. The first segment 3a is the following segment of the busbar 3, on which the introduced wire 2 rests and is in electrical contact with the segment. Additionally, a clamping spring 4 presses the wire 2 against the first segment 3a of the busbar 3. The second segment 3b of the busbar 3 extends from the first segment 3a at an angle, for example, the second segment can extend at a right angle, such that the second segment 3b extends substantially transversely to the first segment 3a. The second segment 3b can extend transversely to the wire introduction direction R. L Extension. On the second section 3b, as will be further explained below, a support leg 6 supports the clamping spring 4. The second section 3b can transition into the third section 3c of the busbar 3. The transition can be made via an angle or a bend. The third section 3c can be parallel to the first section 3a or parallel to the wire introduction direction R. L The third segment 3c is located on the side of terminal 1 opposite to the first segment 3a, and the leg of the clamping spring 4 is positioned between the first segment 3a and the third segment 3c of the busbar 3. The busbar 3 has a simple geometry and can be manufactured as a solid component without any problems.

[0042] The terminal block 1 has an insulating housing 22 that protects the components of the terminal block 1 from external physical and chemical influences and is made of an electrically insulating material such as plastic. The insulating housing 22 almost completely surrounds the terminal block 1, but includes at least one wire entry opening 23 for introducing an electrical wire 2 into the terminal block 1.

[0043] Terminal 1 has a clamping spring 4. The clamping spring 4 has a clamping leg 5 and a supporting leg 6. The clamping leg 5 and the supporting leg 6 are connected to each other via a spring bow 7, such that a U-shape is formed at least at the bottom of the clamping spring 4. Along the wire introduction direction R... LObservation shows that, starting from the wire introduction opening 23, the free end 20 of the support leg 6 is positioned after the free end 19 of the clamping leg 5. In this configuration, the clamping spring 4 is supported against the insulating housing 22 by its spring bow 7, while the clamping leg 5 and the support leg 6 extend into the internal space enclosed by the insulating housing 22, also known as the wire connection space. The support leg 6 is additionally supported on the busbar 3, for example, on the second section 3b of the busbar 3, such that the support leg 6 is also supported against the busbar 3. For this purpose, the busbar 3 has a recess in its second section 3b, through which the support leg 6 is guided, such that the support leg 6 is supported on the second section 3b of the busbar 3. The portion where the support leg 6 is guided through the busbar 3 is called the support portion 8, at which the support leg 6 rests on the busbar 3. From the support portion 8, an elastic, deflectable spring section 9 extends toward the free end 20 of the support leg 6, the spring section having a collision ramp 10 for guiding the wire 2.

[0044] Therefore, the support leg 6 extends from the spring bow 7 toward the conductor 2, and in addition to the clamping leg 5, it forms another spring support via its spring section 9, which is used to clamp the conductor 2 toward the busbar 3. Due to the elasticity of the spring section 9, this spring section is displaced in relation to the conductor diameter when the conductor 2 is introduced, thereby matching different conductor cross-sections. In the case of a larger conductor diameter, the spring section 9 continues downward from the conductor 2 toward the third section 3c of the busbar 3. In the case of a smaller conductor diameter, the spring section 9 deflects less. In both cases, the spring force of the spring section 9 acts on the conductor 2, causing the conductor 2 to be strongly pressed toward the busbar 3 according to its diameter, and in the current case, toward the first section 3a of the busbar 3. The contact point between the conductor 2 and the busbar 3 is formed by the spring forces of the spring section 9 and the clamping leg 5. Therefore, contact points forming clamping portions exist between the conductor 2 and the busbar 3, respectively, via the spring section 9 of the supporting leg 6 and the clamping leg 5 of the clamping spring 4. A concentrated current flows through these contact points, and this current flow is further amplified at at least one contact point by the protrusion 16 of the busbar 3. Thus, the busbar 3 can have a protrusion 16 oriented towards the conductor 2 at at least one contact point, which forms a clamping portion for the connectable electrical conductor 2.

[0045] The elastic spring section 9 reliably holds the wires 2 of different diameters without damaging them.

[0046] Together with the spring section 9, the impact ramp 10 is also elastic and deflectable, allowing it to shift during the introduction of the wire 2, thus resisting the introduced wire 2 with only minor resistance. Therefore, the function of the impact ramp 10 is no longer related to the wire insertion force, but rather to the spring force of the spring section 9. The impact ramp 10 serves to limit the wire introduction movement and, even when the wire is introduced obliquely, i.e., at an angle, allows the wire 2 to be guided again in the direction of the busbar 3 or in the direction of the first section 3a of the busbar 3, thereby correcting the wire insertion direction. The impact ramp 10, as in... Figure 1 As seen in [the diagram], relative to conductor 2 or relative to the direction of conductor introduction R. L It extends at a certain angle to achieve gradual collision of the conductor 2. In the undeflected state, the collision ramp 10 can be at an angle between, for example, 30 degrees and 60 degrees to the introduced conductor.

[0047] Figure 1 The clamping leg 5 of the clamping spring 4 is shown with a bend 18 between its free end 19 and the spring bow 7. Through this bend, the free end 19 of the clamping leg 5 extends more steeply along the direction of the busbar 3, specifically along the direction of the first segment 3a of the busbar 3, compared to the segment of the clamping leg 5 extending in the direction of the spring bow 7. This arrangement creates a clamping edge in the region of its free end 19, and thus in the region of the contact point with the busbar 3. This steeply extending clamping edge creates a sharp force action, resulting in an improved contact point relative to a flatter force angle, allowing for improved current flow and more reliable contact. In particular, this has a positive effect on conductor holding force and conductor clamping force.

[0048] according to Figure 1 The support leg 6 has a bend 17 between the support portion 8 and the impact ramp 10. Therefore, the impact ramp 10 does not transition directly or straight into the section of the support leg 6 that rests on the support portion 8, but instead first undergoes a change of direction, specifically to position the impact ramp 10 immediately following the spring bow 7 and the support leg 6 at a height more conducive to their function. A defined point of rotation is generated from the bend point, about which the spring section 9 can pivot and is thus movable. Figure 1 In the diagram, another directional change of the support leg 6 is shown between the bend 17 and the support 8. Due to the multiple bends of the support leg 6, the spring section 9 is effectively lengthened, thereby improving the deflectability of the spring section 9.

[0049] The spring section 9 of the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4 has an end stop 12 for the conductor 2. This limits the length of the conductor 2. The conductor end of the conductor 2 is received by the end stop 12 and protected from contact with other terminal components. In particular, this also ensures chamber separation, as desired in the case of multiple connectors, such as double connectors. Furthermore, constant contact overlap is achieved even in different conductor cross-sections.

[0050] according to Figure 1 The end stop 12 is integrally formed with the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4, making it particularly easy to manufacture a wire stop. Through the opening 13 in the busbar 3, the end stop 12 can extend beyond the wire end of the wire 2 without being obstructed by the busbar 3. Therefore, the end stop 12 can be made longer, thus reliably fulfilling its function even with larger wire diameters. The end stop 12 can also be configured to be elastic or stiffer than the spring section 9, and for example, have material reinforcement to ensure a more stable stop.

[0051] The end stop 12 is automatically guided to the correct position to accommodate the end of the wire when the spring section 9 is displaced by the introduced wire 2. Due to the similarly displaced impact ramp 10, the wire 2 reliably reaches the desired position in the area of ​​the end stop 12. This prevents the wire 2 from bypassing the end stop 12, as might happen, for example, when the wire diameter is small and the end stop is integrally formed with the insulating housing.

[0052] To operate terminal 1, the terminal has a button 24. By means of, for example, manually operated button 24, clamping leg 5 can be manually moved along the direction of support leg 6 so that wire 2, especially multi-core wire 2, can be more easily introduced or released, and can be positioned between clamping leg 6 and busbar 3.

[0053] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the length L1 of the clamping leg 5 from the apex 21 of the spring bow 7 to the free end 19 of the clamping leg 5 corresponds to the length L2 of the support leg 6 from the apex 21 of the spring bow 7 to the starting point of the impact ramp 10. In the current embodiment, when the clamping leg 5 is displaced, for example due to the operation of the button 24, the impact ramp 10 does not impede the deflection of the clamping leg 5. Larger diameter wires 2 can also be clamped by the clamping leg 5, and the clamping leg 5 is not impeded from deflection by a portion of the support leg 6.

[0054] The busbar 3 and clamping spring 4 can be pre-installed as contact inserts, and the demolding direction R is opposite to that of the insulating material housing 22. E In the installation direction R MThe terminal block 1 is inserted into the insulating housing 22. This ensures particularly simple and low-cost manufacturing and installation of the terminal block 1. This can be achieved in particular through the simple geometry of the busbar 3 and the clamping spring 4, since, for example, the end stop 12 and the impact ramp 10 can already be part of the clamping spring 4 and thus part of the contact insert, and therefore do not need to be formed by corresponding shaped portions of the insulating housing 22, which could make the installation of the contact insert difficult.

[0055] Figure 2 One embodiment of terminal 1 is shown, which is related to... Figure 1 The embodiments shown are only slightly different. To avoid repetition, please refer to the section on... Figure 1 The statement, and only those related to, are discussed below. Figure 1 The differences.

[0056] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows terminal 1 when the wire is not inserted. The clamping spring 4 is therefore in a stationary or initial position, in which the clamping leg 5 and the support leg 6 do not deflect.

[0057] exist Figure 2 In the middle, the insulating material housing 22 has a recess 14 for receiving the end stop 12. This recess 14 is in Figure 2 The end stop 12 has a bag-shaped recess in the insulating material housing 22, into which the free end 20 can sink when the spring section 9 is not deflected or only slightly deflected. In this way, additional mechanical protection and stability are achieved for the end stop 12 when the wire diameter is small. Furthermore, compared with... Figure 1 Compared to the embodiment shown, the end stop 12 can have a greater length, allowing the terminal block 1 to also cover applications for wires with larger diameters. The longer end stop 12 also improves the compartment separation of the terminal block 1 when necessary.

[0058] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Another embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the terminal block 1 is configured as a double connector. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this configuration, the dual connectors have a symmetrical structure, wherein the busbar 3 and the clamping spring 4 are respectively mirror images of each other in the terminal halves K1 and K2, and are surrounded by a common insulating material housing 22. Figure 3 In the case of the double connector, in terminal half K2, wire 2 is fully introduced into terminal 1, while in terminal half K1, there is no wire. Figure 4In the terminal half K2 of the double connector, the wire 2 is fully introduced into the terminal 1, while in the terminal half K1, the wire 2 is shown still in the introduction part, and the wire has not yet fully reached its final position in the terminal 1.

[0059] In each terminal half K1, K2, the busbar 3 can be divided into three sections 3a, 3b, and 3c. The first section 3a is substantially parallel to the corresponding wire introduction direction R. L Extension. The first segment 3a is the following segment of the busbar 3, on which the introduced wire 2 rests and is in electrical contact with the segment. Additionally, a clamping spring 4 presses the wire 2 against the first segment 3a of the busbar 3. The second segment 3b of the busbar 3 extends from the first segment 3a at an angle; for example, the second segment can extend at a right angle, such that the second segment 3b extends substantially transversely to the first segment 3a. The second segment 3b can extend transversely to the wire introduction direction R. L Extension. The support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4 is supported on the second section 3b. The second section 3b can transition into the third section 3c of the busbar 3. The transition can be made via an angle or a bend. The third section 3c can be parallel to the first section 3a or parallel to the wire introduction direction R. L The third segment 3c is located on the side of terminal 1 opposite to the first segment 3a. The legs of the clamping spring 4 are positioned between the first segment 3a and the third segment 3c of the busbar 3. The busbar 3 has a simple geometry and can be manufactured as a solid component without any problems.

[0060] Each terminal half K1, K2 can have its own separate busbar 3, such that the busbars 3 are not connected to each other. However, it is advantageous to provide a common busbar 3 for the two terminal half K1, K2, and the busbar 3 of terminal half K1 is thus transitioned to the busbar 3 of terminal half K2, for example, in the third segment 3c.

[0061] Terminal 1 has a common insulating housing 22 for the two terminal halves K1 and K2. The insulating housing protects the components of terminal 1 from external physical and chemical influences and is made of an electrically insulating material such as plastic. The insulating housing 22 almost completely surrounds terminal 1, but includes two wire entry openings 23 for introducing electrical wires 2 into terminal 1.

[0062] Terminal 1 has a clamping spring 4 in each terminal half K1, K2. Each of the two clamping springs 4 has a clamping leg 5 and a supporting leg 6. The clamping leg 5 and the supporting leg 6 are connected to each other via a spring bow 7, such that a U-shape is formed at least at the bottom of the clamping spring 4. Along the wire introduction direction R... LObservation shows that, starting from the corresponding wire introduction opening 23, the free end 20 of the support leg 6 is positioned after the free end 19 of the clamping leg 5. In the current configuration, the clamping spring 4 is supported by its spring bow 6 against the insulating material housing 22, while the clamping leg 5 and the support leg 6 extend into the internal space enclosed by the insulating material housing 22, also known as the wire connection space. The support leg 6 is additionally supported on the busbar 3, in the current configuration on the corresponding second section 3b of the busbar 3, such that the support leg 6 is also supported against the busbar 3. For this purpose, the busbar 3 has a recess in its corresponding second section 3b, through which the support leg 6 is guided, such that the support leg 6 is supported on the second section 3b of the busbar 3.

[0063] The portion of the contact leg 6 that guides it through the busbar 3 is called the support portion 8, where the support leg 6 rests on the busbar 3. Starting from the support portion 8, a flexible, deflectable spring section 9 with a collision ramp 10 for the guide wire 2 extends toward the free end 20 of the support leg 6.

[0064] Therefore, the support leg 6 of each clamping spring 4 extends from the spring bow 7 toward the conductor 2, and in addition to the clamping leg 5, forms another spring support through its spring section 9, which is used to clamp the corresponding conductor 2 toward the busbar 3. Due to the elasticity of the spring section 9, this spring section is displaced in relation to the conductor diameter when the conductor 2 is introduced, thereby matching different conductor cross-sections. In the case of a larger conductor diameter, the spring section 9 continues downward from the corresponding conductor 2 toward the third section 3c of the busbar 3. In the case of a smaller conductor diameter, the spring section 9 deflects less. In both cases, the spring force of the spring section 9 acts on the conductor 2, causing the conductor 2 to be strongly pressed toward the busbar 3 regardless of its diameter, and in the current case, toward the first section 3a of the busbar 3. Through the spring force of the spring section 9 and the clamping leg 5, as in Figure 3 and 4 As shown, two contact points 11 are formed between the corresponding conductor 2 and busbar 3. Therefore, in each terminal half K1, K2, contact points 11 forming clamping portions exist between the conductor 2 and busbar 3, respectively, via the spring section 9 of the support leg 6 and the clamping leg 5 of the clamping spring 4. A concentrated current flows through these contact points 11, which is further improved at the contact points 11 by the protrusions 16 of the busbar 3. Therefore, the busbar 3 can have a protrusion 16 oriented towards the conductor 2 at at least one contact point 11, which forms a clamping portion for the connectable electrical conductor 2.

[0065] The elastic spring section 9 reliably holds the wires 2 of different diameters without damaging them.

[0066] Along with the spring section 9, the impact ramp 10 is also elastic and deflectable, allowing it to shift during the introduction of the wire 2, thus resisting the introduced wire 2 with only minor resistance. Therefore, the function of the impact ramp 10 is no longer related to the wire insertion force, but rather to the spring force of the spring section 9. The impact ramp 10 serves to limit the wire introduction movement and, even when the wire is introduced obliquely, i.e., at an angle, allows the wire 2 to be guided again in the direction of the busbar 3 or in the direction of the first section 3a of the busbar 3, thereby correcting the wire insertion direction. (As in...) Figure 3 and Figure 4 As seen in the diagram, the collision ramp 10 is relative to the conductor 2 or relative to the direction R of the conductor introduction. L Extend at a certain angle to achieve gradual collision of the wire 2. In the undeflected state, the collision ramp 10 can be at an angle between, for example, 30 degrees and 60 degrees to the introduced wire.

[0067] exist Figure 3 and 4 In this configuration, the spring section 9 of the support leg 6 of each clamping spring 4 has an end stop 12 for the corresponding wire 2. This limits the length of the wire 2 that can be introduced. The end of the wire 2 is received by the end stop 12 and protected from contact with other terminal components. In particular, this also ensures the separation of the chambers of the current dual connector, such that a chamber for each wire connection is formed in each terminal half K1, K2.

[0068] As in Figure 3 and 4 As shown, the end stop 12 is advantageously integrally formed with the support leg 6 of each clamping spring 4, thus providing a wire stop that can be manufactured with particular simplicity. The end stop 12 is directly connected to the impact ramp 10 of the spring section 9 of the support leg 6. Figure 3 As can be seen, the end stop 12 extends from the collision ramp at an angle α. This angle α is preferably an obtuse angle in order to allow the conductor 2 to be introduced as far as possible while ensuring that the end of the conductor is accommodated by the end stop 12.

[0069] The end stop 12 is automatically guided to the correct position to accommodate the end of the wire when the spring section 9 is displaced by the introduced wire 2. Due to the similarly displaced impact ramp 10, the wire 2 reliably reaches the desired position in the region of the end stop 12. This prevents the wire 2 from bypassing the end stop 12, as might happen, for example, when the wire diameter is small and the end stop is integrally formed with the insulating housing.

[0070] exist Figure 4The functions of the impact ramp 10 and the end stop 12 are particularly easy to understand. In the terminal half K1, the wire 2 located in the introduction section directly collides with the impact ramp 10, thereby initiating the deflection of the spring section 9. Therefore, the spring section 9 yields to the wire 2, and the impact ramp 10 also shifts downward, causing the angle between the impact ramp 10 and the wire 2 to decrease simultaneously. Due to this shift and the decrease in angle, the introduction resistance when introducing the wire 2 is reduced. As the introduction process continues, it continues along the wire introduction direction R. L Push the wire 2 until the end of the wire touches the end stop 12, as seen in the terminal half K2. In this final position, the spring section 9 does not continue to move, but instead, the spring section 9 pre-tensions the wire 2 by its spring force, thereby pressing it against the first section 3a of the busbar 3.

[0071] To operate the terminal block 1, each terminal half K1, K2 has a button 24. With the aid of the manually operated button 24, the clamping leg 5 can be manually moved along the direction of the support leg 6 so that the wire 2 can be more easily introduced and positioned between the clamping leg 6 and the busbar 3.

[0072] exist Figure 3 and 4 The diagram shows two wires 2 with approximately the same diameter. However, it is also conceivable to introduce wires 2 with different diameters into each of the terminal halves K1 and K2. Due to the advantages achieved according to the invention, a wide range of wire diameters can be used by means of the terminal 1.

[0073] Figure 5 The terminal 1 is shown in the direction R of the wire introduction. L A side view of the top. This view shows the cross-section of the wire 2 inserted into the wire inlet opening 23. The wire 2 is pressed against the busbar 3 by the clamping spring 4, and in the present case, against the first segment 3a of the busbar 3. The terminal 1 is surrounded by an insulating housing 22. A button 24 extends from the insulating housing 22 to facilitate easier insertion of the wire 2 into the terminal 1, and is operated by means of, in particular, to move the clamping spring 4.

[0074] Figure 6 Another embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the terminal block 1 is provided as a double connector. In the terminal block 1 shown, two electrical wires can be introduced into, for example, wire inlet openings 23 opposite each other, such that the electrical wires can be inserted sequentially. Preferably, there is a suitable compartment separation so that the wires do not come into contact with each other. Hereinafter, the description focuses on the wire connection shown in the right half of the figures. For connecting additional wires, additional terminal components, such as additional clamping springs, can be provided.

[0075] Figure 6 The terminal block 1 has an insulating material housing 22 that protects the components of the terminal block 1 from external physical and chemical effects and is made of an electrically insulating material such as plastic. The insulating material housing 22 surrounds the terminal block 1 but includes openings, such as wire introduction openings 23 for introducing electrical wires into the terminal block 1.

[0076] Terminal block 1 has a busbar 3, which can be divided into four sections 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d. The first section 3a is substantially parallel to the direction of wire introduction R. L Extension. The first section 3a is the following section of the busbar 3, on which the introduced wire rests and is in electrical contact with the section. Additionally, a clamping spring 4 presses the wire against the first section 3a of the busbar 3. The second section 3b of the busbar 3 extends from the first section 3a at an angle; for example, the second section can extend at a right angle, such that the second section 3b extends substantially transversely to the first section 3a. The second section 3b can extend transversely to the wire introduction direction R. L Extension. The supporting leg 6 of the clamping spring 4 is supported on the second section 3b. The first section 3a can transition into the third section 3c, particularly via an angle or bend. The third section 3c preferably extends generally parallel to the second section 3b. The third section 3c transitions into the fourth section 3d, particularly via an angle or bend, at its end opposite the transition to the first section 3a.

[0077] The clamping spring 4 is supported on one side by the insulating material housing 22, and on the other side by its support leg 6 by the second section 3b of the busbar 3. In addition to the support leg 6, the clamping spring 4 also has a clamping leg 5, which is connected to the support leg 6 via a spring bow 7. Between the free end of the support leg 6 and the support portion 8 of the support leg 6 located on the busbar 3, the support leg 6 has an elastic, deflectable spring section 9, which has a collision ramp 10 for guiding the wire to be connected.

[0078] The elastic spring section 9 reliably holds the wires 2 of different diameters without damaging them.

[0079] Along with the spring section 9, the impact ramp 10 is also elastic and deflectable, allowing it to shift during wire introduction, thus resisting the introduced wire with only minimal resistance. Therefore, the function of the impact ramp 10 is no longer related to the wire insertion force, but rather to the spring force of the spring section 9. The impact ramp 10 serves to limit the wire introduction movement and, even when the wire is inserted at an angle, allows it to be guided again in the direction of the busbar 3 or in the direction of the first section 3a of the busbar 3, thereby correcting the wire insertion direction.

[0080] exist Figure 6 In the clamping spring 4, the spring section 9 of the support leg 6 has an end stop 12 for the inserted wire. This limits the length of the wire that can be inserted. The wire end is received by the end stop 12 and protected from contact with other terminal components. This, in particular, ensures separation of the chambers. Figure 6 The end stop 12 and the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4 are integrally formed, which provides a wire stop that can be manufactured in a particularly simple manner.

[0081] List of reference numerals

[0082] 1. Terminal block

[0083] 2. Wire

[0084] 3 busbars

[0085] 3a The first section of the busbar

[0086] 3b The second section of the busbar

[0087] 3c Busbar, third section

[0088] The fourth section of the 3D busbar

[0089] 4. Clamping spring

[0090] 5. Clasp your legs together

[0091] 6 Supporting Legs

[0092] 7. Spring Bow

[0093] 8 Support section

[0094] 9. Spring section

[0095] 10 Collision ramp

[0096] 11 Contact Points

[0097] 12 End stop components

[0098] 13 Opening

[0099] 14. Concave area

[0100] 16. Raised section

[0101] 17. Bend

[0102] 18. Bending section

[0103] 19. The free end of the clamped legs

[0104] 20. Free end of the supporting leg

[0105] 21 Vertex

[0106] 22 Insulating material housing

[0107] 23. Wire introduction opening

[0108] 24 buttons

[0109] α Angle of end stop / collision ramp

[0110] L1 Leg clamp length

[0111] L2 clamps the legs until the length of the collision with the inclined plane.

[0112] R L Direction of wire introduction

[0113] R E Demolding direction

[0114] R M Installation direction

[0115] K1 Terminal Half 1

[0116] K2 Terminal Half 2

Claims

1. A terminal block (1) for connecting electrical conductors to a busbar (3), wherein, The terminal block (1) has an insulating housing (22), a busbar (3), and a clamping spring (4), wherein the clamping spring (4) has a clamping leg (5) and a support leg (6) supported on the busbar (3), the clamping leg (5) and the support leg (6) being connected to each other by a spring bow (7), characterized in that the support leg (6) has an elastic, deflectable spring section (9) starting from the spring bow (7) behind the support portion (8) on the busbar (3), the spring section having a collision ramp (10) for guiding the conductor to be connected, wherein the first section (3a) of the busbar (3) is substantially parallel to the conductor introduction direction (R). L The second segment (3b) of the busbar (3) extends from the first segment (3a) at an angle. The second section (3b) has a recess, through which the support leg (6) is guided, such that the support leg (6) is supported on the second section (3b).

2. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Through the spring section (9) and the clamping leg (5), a contact point (11) forming a clamping part can be established between the wire to be connected and the busbar (3).

3. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spring section (9) has an end stop (12) for the electrical conductor.

4. The terminal block (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The busbar (3) and / or the insulating material housing (22) have recesses (14), recesses or openings (13) for accommodating the end stop (12).

5. The terminal block (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The end stop (12) is directly connected to the collision ramp (10).

6. The terminal block (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The end stop (12) extends from the collision ramp (10) at an angle (α).

7. The terminal block (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, A shoulder is provided on the spring section (9) between the end stop (12) and the collision ramp (10), the shoulder extending substantially perpendicular to the end stop (12).

8. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The busbar (3) has a raised portion (16) at at least one contact point (11) oriented toward the conductor, the contact point forming a clamping portion for the conductor to be connected.

9. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spring section (9) of the support leg (6) between the collision ramp (10) and the support portion (8) has a bent portion (17).

10. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The clamping leg (5) has a bend (18) between its free end (19) and the spring bow (7).

11. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, In the direction of the wire introduction (R) L From the perspective of the support leg (6), the free end (20) is located behind the free end (19) of the clamping leg (5).

12. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The terminal block (1) is configured as a double connector with a symmetrical structure, wherein each busbar (3) and clamping spring (4) are arranged substantially mirror each other in each terminal half (K1, K2) and are surrounded by a common insulating material housing (22).

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