Spring-loaded terminals for conductors

Abstract

The present invention relates to a spring-type terminal (1) for connecting conductors, the spring-type terminal being a plug-in terminal, comprising: a. a busbar (2); b. a clamping spring (3) acting as a compression spring; c. a stop spring (4) for locking the clamping spring (3) in an open position; d. wherein the clamping spring (3) has a clamping leg (32) with a clamping edge (321), the clamping leg being pivotable along a pivot axis (8), the stop spring (4) having a pivoting leg (41) pivotable about a second pivot axis (9); e. wherein the pivoting leg (41) has a plurality of at least one stop device (412), and the clamping leg (32) has a locking device (322) that interacts with at least one stop device in the locking state R of the clamping leg (32), f. wherein the clamping leg (32) is moved from the locking state R to the clamping state K by moving the electrical conductor (6), wherein in the clamping state K the clamping leg is released and presses the electrical conductor (6) against the busbar (2) by means of the clamping edge (321), and g. wherein the locking device (322) of the clamping leg (32) is spaced apart from the clamping edge (321).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a spring-loaded terminal having a busbar provided for contacting an electrical conductor, in particular a stranded conductor, and having a spring provided for fixing the electrical conductor in the spring-loaded terminal. Background Art

[0002] Such spring-loaded terminals in the form of push-in terminals (push-in terminals) with a compression spring pressing the conductor against the busbar are known in various embodiments.

[0003] For example, it is known to lock a clamping spring—a compression spring—in an open position, thereby making it easier to guide the conductor into the contact area. According to the known prior art, this locking of the clamping spring in the open position is achieved by an actuating device, such as a pusher that can be locked to the terminal housing, wherein the pusher holds the clamping legs in the open position. By releasing the actuating device after inserting the conductor, the clamping legs relax and press the conductor against the busbar. A disadvantage of this is that the actuating device must be released manually to contact the conductor.

[0004] EP 2 466 689 A1 describes a spring-loaded terminal in which an integral clamping spring is locked onto the clamping edge of a clamping leg of the clamping spring. A disadvantage of this design with locked clamping legs is that the clamping edge of the clamping spring has a relatively high wear, which occurs when the spring-loaded terminal is connected.

[0005] EP 2 768 079 A1 also discloses a spring-loaded terminal in which a multi-part clamping spring is locked at the free ends of the spring legs of the clamping spring. This spring-loaded terminal has proven itself very well in practice, but it is also disadvantageous that the clamping edges of the clamping spring exhibit relatively high wear when the spring-loaded terminal is connected.

[0006] Therefore the object of the invention is to provide a kind of spring type terminal that is used for conductor, especially stranded conductor, wherein reduced the wearing and tearing of the clamping edge of clamping spring.In addition, well prevented the wrong insertion of clamping spring or premature release. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present application provides a spring-type terminal for connecting conductors, in particular for connecting stranded conductors, which has a busbar for contacting the electrical conductor and a clamping spring acting as a compression spring for fixing the electrical conductor in the spring-type terminal, and a retaining spring for locking the clamping spring in an open position so that the conductor can be inserted into the contact area in a sliding direction.

[0008] In this case, the clamping spring comprises a clamping leg with a clamping edge, which can be pivoted about a first pivot axis in a pivot direction, and the retaining spring comprises a pivoting leg, which can be pivoted about a second pivot axis, wherein the pivoting leg has at least one locking device for locking the clamping leg in the open position. The clamping spring and the retaining spring can be designed as a single piece, which is particularly economical, but they can also be manufactured separately and then connected together, in which case the spacing of the locking device from the clamping edge has an advantageous effect in each case.

[0009] Furthermore, the pivoting leg has at least one stop device as a first locking device, and the clamping leg has a (reverse) locking device that cooperates with the stop device of the pivoting leg in the locking state R of the clamping leg to keep the clamping leg in the open position, wherein the clamping leg can be adjusted from the locking state R to the clamping state K by moving the electrical conductor, in the locking state R, the clamping leg is locked to the pivoting leg by the rear stop device and is held in the open position or the conductor insertion position, in the clamping state K, the clamping leg is released from the stop device and unlocked, and the electrical conductor is pressed against the busbar with the clamping edge of the clamping leg so that the conductor contacts the busbar.

[0010] Furthermore, the counter-locking means of the clamping leg are formed at a distance from the clamping edge of the clamping leg.

[0011] This results in a spring-type terminal which advantageously separates the functions of the locking mechanism of the clamping spring and the clamping edge, which presses the conductor against the busbar, and which advantageously reduces the wear of the clamping edge of the clamping spring due to this functional separation.

[0012] It is therefore preferably advantageous if the locking device of the pivoting leg does not lock directly on the clamping edge of the clamping leg.

[0013] In this way, the stop means does not rub against the clamping edge when released from the clamping edge. The clamping edge can thus be protected in a simple manner from excessive wear caused by wiring operations.

[0014] At the same time, it is advantageous that incorrect insertion or premature release of the clamping spring can be prevented, since the locking mechanism is not located in the conductor insertion area.

[0015] In terms of design, this can be achieved, for example, in that the locking means of the clamping leg are formed on the clamping leg more than 1 mm, in particular more than 3 mm, from the clamping edge of the clamping leg.

[0016] Advantageously, the spring-loaded terminal further comprises a reset device for pivoting the clamping leg in the opposite direction, by means of which the clamping leg can be pivoted from the clamping state back to the locked state R by moving the reset device counter to the pivoting direction.

[0017] In order to achieve an advantageous simple design of the clamping spring, the clamping spring can be formed in one piece with the retaining spring. This enables a simple assembly process of the clamping spring and a cost-effective manufacture of the clamping spring.

[0018] However, it can also be provided that, in addition to the clamping spring, the spring-type terminal also has a retaining spring which is produced separately, but the clamping spring and the retaining spring can be connected to one another by a connection.

[0019] According to another preferred embodiment variant of the invention, the clamping spring can have a supporting leg, via which it is supported on a corresponding support.

[0020] The support can be a support leg of a busbar. However, it can also be provided that the support is a terminal housing.

[0021] The retaining spring can have a pressure surface that can be arranged transversely to the sliding direction or the conductor insertion direction. This design provides a simple, effective, and therefore advantageous way to disengage the clamping spring from the conductor end. It is also advantageous if the retaining device is integrally formed on the pivot leg. This allows for a simple design of the retaining device on the pivot leg.

[0022] According to another preferred embodiment variant of the present invention, the pivot leg can be of angled design. Advantageously, the pressure surface abuts the first leg of the pivot leg, which is bent downward relative to the conductor insertion direction and the upper curvature of the clamping spring. This further simplifies the design of the connection device. It is also advantageous if the clamping leg itself is formed into an angled shape, as this increases the geometric design possibilities.

[0023] It is also advantageous if the stop means of the pivoting leg, i.e. the first locking means, is formed in one variant by a locking edge arranged at the end of the second, upwardly bent leg of the angled pivoting leg. This allows a simple structural realization of the stop means on the pivoting leg.

[0024] In another variant, the stop device of the pivot leg can also be designed as at least one outwardly flared tab of the pivot leg.This structural design enables a simple and therefore advantageous structural implementation of the stop device on the pivot leg.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment variant of the present invention, the locking device of the pivot leg can be formed as at least one hook or at least one web and formed integrally with the pivot leg. The hook can also protrude from the pivot leg, preferably substantially opposite the direction of conductor insertion or "upward." This also allows for an advantageously simple structural design of the locking device. Several hooks, in particular two hooks, can also be provided.

[0026] Particularly advantageous - because they are compact and can be implemented without much waste - are variants in which the corresponding hook is cut out of the material of the pivot leg laterally or alternatively - centrally and bent from the rear for engagement behind a corresponding edge or tab or the like on the clamping leg, said edge or tab or the like being located in a recess or hole in the clamping leg at a certain distance from the clamping edge.

[0027] Since the first downwardly bent leg (portion) and the second upwardly bent leg (portion) of the pivot leg can be integrally connected to each other via a bend, the stiffness of the pivot leg of the retaining spring is advantageously increased in a simple constructive manner.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment variant of the invention, the pivoting leg of the retaining spring can have an opening in the region of the second leg of the bend, which is bent upward (i.e., opposite to the conductor insertion direction) and the first leg, which is bent downward (i.e., in the conductor insertion direction), into which the clamping leg engages to form the locked position R of the clamping legs. This enables an advantageously space-saving design of the retaining spring and also an advantageously increased clamping force of the clamping spring.

[0029] According to a further improvement, it is also advantageous if the opening is located in the region of the stop device and the bend of the pivoting leg of the retaining spring and has a narrow portion. This enables a locking device to be designed on the clamping leg of the clamping spring in an advantageously simple manner.

[0030] It is also advantageous if the clamping leg has a waist that corresponds geometrically to the narrow portion, so that the clamping leg can, for example, be freely moved through an opening in the pivoting leg. This enables an advantageous, space-saving design of the retaining spring.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment variant of the present invention, the locking device of the clamping leg can be formed integrally on the clamping leg or integrally with the clamping leg. This enables a simple design realization of the locking device on the clamping leg.

[0032] If the locking device of the clamping leg is deployed outwardly from the clamping leg and is connected integrally with the clamping leg, this is also advantageous.For example, the locking device can adopt the form of a part of a hole or recess, a web or a hook.

[0033] It can also be provided that the locking device of the clamping leg is designed as a lug formed by the waist of the clamping leg and therefore does not open. This also achieves a simple design of the locking device.

[0034] It is also advantageous if the locking means of the clamping leg is designed as a bent tab and is formed integrally on the outer side of the clamping leg.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment variant of the present invention, the support leg of the clamping spring can have elongated hole-like openings arranged on both sides along the line of symmetry of the support leg. Depending on the length and width of the elongated holes, the stiffness of the support leg can be easily adjusted to the corresponding requirements through structurally simple design means.

[0036] It is also advantageous if, according to a variant, the pivot leg has a cutout which is delimited by a stop means of the pivot leg.

[0037] In another preferred embodiment variant of the present invention, in the locked state, the reset device can be arranged between the clamping spring and the electrical conductor and can be moved along and against the sliding direction. This enables the clamping spring to be reset advantageously simply from the locked state.

[0038] It is also advantageous if, according to a variant, the reset device is clamped between the clamping legs and the rear portion of the terminal housing in the clamped state. This achieves a self-reinforcing clamping effect of the reset device in the clamped state of the spring-type terminal in a simple manner, which is therefore advantageous.

[0039] It is also advantageous that, according to a variant, the resetting device can be moved in the sliding direction for resetting the clamping leg. This enables an easy-to-operate and safe resetting process of the clamping leg.

[0040] According to another advantageous variant, a stop element can be applied to the retaining spring, on which the pressure surface is formed. The advantage of a stop element (optionally with a groove) is that it can be more optimally formed with the desired geometry using injection molding than if it were directly integrated into the pressure surface of the spring, as the spring material only allows limited "molding" capabilities.

[0041] According to another preferred embodiment variant of the present invention, the pressure surface can have a bead-shaped cavity. The bead-shaped cavity simply bundles and centers the strands during the connection process, minimizing strand splitting. Furthermore, it can increase the stranding force.

[0042] Advantageously, therefore, according to a variant, the pressure surface has a self-centering effect due to the bead-shaped indentations of the conductor or its core. In this way, the safety function of the pressure surface is ensured by an advantageously simple structural design.

[0043] As already mentioned, according to a particularly advantageous variant, the arresting device can have at least one hook or a plurality of hooks, in particular two hooks.

[0044] The corresponding hook portion can then be preferably stamped out transversely from the locking leg at the edge of the locking leg and bent into a hook shape. One or more hook portions can further advantageously have a long leg and a short leg, or hook leg. The hook leg can preferably be aligned at an angle β of 90° to 100° to the long leg, so that it is easy to lock, but can also be easily released from the lock by pressure from the conductor end on the pressure surface, even for finely stranded conductors. The hook leg is preferably of relatively short design so that it can be easily locked and securely fixed in the locked state, but can also be easily released from its lock by pressure from the conductor end when it is inserted into the clamping point. This hook-shaped design allows for particularly good adjustment of the release and locking characteristics of the conductor connection.

[0045] According to another alternative design, the latching device as the first locking device and / or the corresponding further locking device can have one or more—in particular corresponding—chamfers on one or more edges in order to optimize the locking and unlocking of the respective latching device on the respective respective locking device. Preferably, at least one chamfer can be formed on an edge of the further locking device on the clamping leg that points upward or essentially against the insertion direction of the conductor, against which the latching device can rest in the locked state, at least on one edge. The release and locking properties of the conductor connection can also be further optimized in this way.

[0046] The invention further relates to a terminal block or a plug-in connector having one or more spring-loaded terminals according to the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0048] FIG1 : a) shows a sectional perspective view of a spring-type terminal according to the invention, with clamping legs in a locked state, which are provided for clamping an electrical conductor inserted into the spring-type terminal, and b) shows a spring-type terminal according to the invention. Figure 1a A perspective view of a spring-type terminal without an electrical conductor according to the present invention;

[0049] FIG2 shows a sectional perspective view of a spring-type terminal according to the invention with a clamping leg in a clamped state and a perspective view of a spring-type terminal according to the invention in a). Figure 2a A perspective view of a spring-type terminal without an electrical conductor according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 3 : shows an exploded view of the spring-type terminal of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 according to the present invention;

[0051] Figure 4 : shows a terminal block having two spring-type terminals according to the present invention as connecting means;

[0052] FIG. 5 shows in a) the circuit diagram from FIG. 1 to FIG. 2 in a state before assembly. Figure 4 A perspective view of a clamping spring of a spring-type terminal according to the present invention is shown in b). Figure 1a A front view of the clamping spring is shown in c). Figure 1a The clamping spring is in a locked state or a tensioned state, and a front view of the clamping spring of FIG. 1c is shown in d);

[0053] Figure 6: a) to f) show enlarged perspective views of the terminal block in Figure 4 with Figure 1a-3 , 5a-5d of the embodiment of the spring terminal block, shown in g) Figures 6a to 6f A magnified perspective view of the clamping spring and busbar of the spring-loaded terminal block;

[0054] FIG7 : perspective views of respective further embodiment variants of the clamping spring in the open state and the state before assembly are shown in a) to e), and in f) the exemplary embodiment of e) after attachment of the functional element; and

[0055] Figure 8 : A perspective view and a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a clamping spring in a relaxed position and in an open state are shown in a) and b), respectively, and the clamping spring from a) and b) in a tensioned position and in a closed state are shown in c) and d), respectively, one in a perspective view and one in a side view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] Figure 1a A spring-type terminal 1 is shown as a connection device for electrical conductors. The conductors to be connected are in particular designed as strip-shaped conductor ends. These conductor ends can also be designed as fine-stranded conductors or stranded conductors. However, the spring-type terminal is also suitable for solid conductors. The spring-type terminal can be used in various ways, for example as a connection device for a terminal block 100 (see Figure 4 ) or as a spring-type terminal 1 (not shown) for a connector or the like. Other applications not disclosed herein are also conceivable.

[0057] The spring-type terminal 1 has a busbar 2 for contacting an electrical conductor 6. The busbar 2 may be L-shaped. However, as Figure 1b As shown, it can also be part of a multi-walled clamping cage. The clamping cage can be U-shaped when viewed from above, so that the conductor end can be inserted into the U-shaped cross section and can also have a lower transverse wall.

[0058] because Figure 1a (and Figure 2a ) is a cross-sectional view, in which the metal clamping cage 20 is not visible or shown, but can be seen from Figure 1b (or Figure 2b ) can be seen in .

[0059] The spring-type terminal 1 then has a clamping spring 3 serving as a compression spring, which is provided for clamping the electrical conductor 6 in the spring-type terminal 1 so that the electrical conductor 6 is in permanent and stable contact with the busbar 2 in an electrically conductive manner. The clamping spring 3 thus serves to press the conductor 6 against the busbar 2.

[0060] In addition to the clamping spring, a retaining spring 4 is provided to lock a portion of the clamping spring 3, namely the clamping leg 32, in the open position, so that when the clamping spring is opened and tensioned, the conductor 6 can be inserted into the receptacle 11 of the spring-type terminal 1 until it reaches the contact area.

[0061] The clamping spring 3 and the retaining spring 4 can be made into an integral form. However, the retaining spring 4 also can be manufactured separately from the clamping spring 3. The retaining spring 4 is then connected to the clamping spring 3.

[0062] Preferably, according to Figure 1a (as well as Figure 1b 、 2a The "clamping spring arrangement" of Figures 2b, 5a to 5d, and 7a to 7g) combines the functions of the clamping spring 3 and the retaining spring 4 into a single component—that is, a one-piece design. This functional integration of the clamping spring 3 and the integrally formed retaining spring 4 is advantageous but not mandatory.

[0063] The busbar 2 and the clamping spring 3 are arranged in a terminal housing 12 , which is preferably made of an electrically insulating material, in particular plastic. A socket 11 is provided in the terminal housing 12 for inserting an electrical conductor 6 .

[0064] The illustrated electrical conductor 6 has an electrically insulating sheath 62 which is stripped away at an open end 63 of the electrical conductor 6 so that a core 61 of the electrical conductor 6 is visible.

[0065] The clamping spring 3 includes a clamping leg 32 and a support leg 31. The clamping leg 32 can rotate about the pivot axis 8 in a pivot direction 81 or counter to the pivot direction 81. The support leg 31 is supported on a corresponding support in a simple and reliable manner, particularly when the clamping leg 32 rotates. The support can be designed as the support leg 21. It can also be integrally formed on the busbar 2 or bent from it. However, in other embodiments (not shown here), the support leg 31 can also be supported in other ways, such as directly in the terminal housing 12.

[0066] In the example, the support leg 31 has a centrally arranged locking tab 311. This can be bent out from the locking tab 31. In this case, the locking tab 311 is supported on a support, in this case on a corresponding support device, in this case on the support leg 21.

[0067] Preferably, the support leg 31 and the clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 are connected to one another via a bend 30. Advantageously, this bend 30 can engage with the support contour 14 of the terminal housing 12, which is penetrated by the rotation axis 8 and can also serve as a movement limiting element for the clamping leg 32. The clamping spring 3 has an overall approximately V-shaped configuration.

[0068] The two connecting legs 312a, 312b extend here to the sides of the stop plate 311 and serve as connecting means for the stop spring 4, which is here integrally connected to the clamping spring 3. However, the stop spring 4 can also be attached to the clamping spring as a separately manufactured component, for example to the support leg 31, so that it can be attached to the support leg 31.

[0069] The connecting legs 312 a , 312 b here form an angle, preferably an approximately right angle, to the retaining spring 4 .

[0070] The retaining spring 4 then has a pivot leg 41. The pivot leg 41 itself can be bent, in particular to increase its strength. At its free end, it has a pressure surface 42, against which the conductor end contacts when the conductor is inserted in the conductor insertion direction 7, thereby moving the pivot leg 41.

[0071] In this respect, the pivot leg 41 is designed to be resiliently pivotable relative to the clamping spring 3, in particular relative to its supporting leg 31. The pivot leg 31 can be connected / formed on the two connecting legs 312a, 312b or integrally formed thereon.

[0072] The retaining spring 4 or its pivot leg 41 pivots about the second pivot axis 9 in and against a second pivot direction 91. In order to be able to pivot the clamping leg 32 in the second pivot direction 91, the retaining spring 4 has a pressure surface 42 by means of which the pivot leg can be pivoted.

[0073] The pressure surface 42 can be arranged transversely to the conductor insertion direction or sliding direction 7. By applying pressure with the corresponding conductor end of the conductor to be inserted onto the pressure surface 42, the retaining spring 4 can be pivoted in the second pivot direction 91. The pressure surface 42 abuts against a first, downwardly bent leg 411 of the pivot leg 41.

[0074] One or more stop means 412, preferably integrally provided on the pivot leg 41, in particular integrally formed, are formed on the pivot leg 41. The stop means 412 are here two locking edges, which are arranged approximately at the end of a second, upwardly bent leg 413 of the angled pivot leg 41. The first, downwardly bent leg 411 and the second, upwardly bent leg 413 are integrally connected to one another via a bend 414.

[0075] The clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 has at least one or more locking devices 322. The one or more locking devices—here, two—are formed at a certain distance from the clamping edge 321—here, approximately halfway along the longitudinal extension of the clamping leg. The one or more locking devices are configured to lock to the stop device 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the stop spring 4, which in turn locks the clamping leg in the open position (referred to as the locked state). The locking devices 322 are preferably formed at a distance greater than 1 mm, in particular greater than 2 mm, from the clamping edge 321, so that the latter is not damaged when the terminal is connected to or disconnected from the conductor. The locking devices 322 are not in an operative relationship with the clamping edge 3121, that is, they cannot be locked to the latter, and therefore they do not damage the clamping edge during use. Instead, the locking devices 322 are operatively connected to the stop device 412, so that the clamping edge is not locked.

[0076] The locking means 322 can be integrally formed with the clamping leg 32. They can protrude from the clamping leg 32 or be formed as a recess or step therein. When the clamping leg 32 is locked, they form a latching connection with the locking means 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the retaining spring 4. In this way, the clamping spring 3 can be locked in an open position and released from this open position when a conductor is inserted.

[0077] Here, the pivoting leg 41 has an opening 415 in the region of the second upwardly bent leg 413 (i.e., in extension of the connecting legs 31a, 31b), the bend 414, and the first downwardly bent leg 411, into which the clamping leg 32 enters, thereby entering the locked state R of the clamping leg 32. The opening 415 has a constriction 416 in the region of the stop 412 and the bend 414. This ensures a compact design.

[0078] The clamping leg 32 therefore has a geometrically corresponding waist 323 which here directly adjoins the locking means / locking edge 322 (see also Figure 2a 、 Figure 3 and Figure 5a and 5c ), so that the clamping leg 32 can freely pass through the opening 415 and move.

[0079] When the stop spring 4 pivots about the second pivot axis 9, it pivots the stop device 412 against the restoring force of the pivot leg 41. This changes the position of the stop device 412 until the clamping legs 32 of the clamping spring 3 are disengaged.

[0080] A gap 13 is formed between the clamping spring 3 and the busbar 2 , into which gap 13 the electrical conductor 6 can be inserted in a freely displaceable manner in and against the sliding direction 7 in the locked state R of the clamping legs 32 .

[0081] When the electrical conductor 6 inserted into the spring-type terminal 1 moves along the sliding direction 7, the free end or open end 63 of the electrical conductor 6 contacts the pressure surface 42. Figure 1a and Figure 1b shown.

[0082] As the conductor 6 is pushed further in the pushing direction 7, it presses on the pressure surface 42, causing the pivot leg 41 to pivot in the second pivot direction 91. In this process, the clamping leg 32 disengages the stop device 412 and pivots in the pivot direction 81 to the clamping state K, as shown in FIG. Figure 2a and Figure 2b The pressure surface 42 is arranged below the stop 412 in the sliding direction 7 , so that the clamping leg 32 can be freely pivoted in and against the pivoting direction 81 in a simple and safe manner.

[0083] The spring-loaded terminal 1 may also include a reset device 5. The reset device 5 is movable in and against the sliding direction 7. It is configured to pivot the clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 in the opposite direction of the pivoting direction 81. In this case, by displacing the reset device 5 against the pivoting direction 7, the clamping leg 32 can be pivoted from the clamped position K back to the locked position R, thereby causing the locking device 322 of the clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 to once again engage with the locking device 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the locking spring 4. The electrical conductor 6 previously locked in the spring-loaded terminal 1 in the clamped position K can then be removed from the spring-loaded terminal 1 in the locked position R.

[0084] In the embodiment shown here, in the locked state R (see Figure 1a and Figure 1b ) and in the clamping state K (see Figure 2a and Figure 2b The reset device 5 is positioned above the locking device 322 integrally formed on the clamping leg 32. Therefore, when the clamping leg 32 is in the clamped state K, the reset device 5 acts directly on the clamping leg 32 during displacement in the sliding direction 7, minimizing the displacement path required for the clamping leg 32 to pivot in the opposite direction. The reset device is also essentially formed between the clamping spring and the conductor.

[0085] In order to actuate the reset device 5, the latter can have an actuation slot, which simplifies actuation using a tool (e.g. a screwdriver). In addition, the reset device 5 is clamped between the clamping legs 32 and the terminal housing 12 in the clamping state K and therefore cannot be separated from the terminal housing 12.

[0086] Figure 1a and Figure 1b The clamping spring 3 and the retaining spring 4 are shown with the clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 in the locked state R. It can be seen that the clamping leg 32 is locked to the retaining device 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the retaining spring 4 by means of its locking device 322, which is formed along approximately half of the longitudinal extension of the clamping leg 32. Figure 1a The gap 13 between the busbar 2 and the clamping leg 32 can also be clearly seen.

[0087] Figure 2a The electrical conductor 6 is shown clamped in the spring-loaded terminal 1. The clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 pivots about the pivot axis 8 in the pivot direction 81, and its clamping edge 321 presses the core 61 of the electrical conductor 6 against the busbar 2. It can also be seen that, when pivoting in the pivot direction 81, the clamping leg 32 presses the reset device 5 against the sliding direction 7. This causes the reset device 5 to move against the sliding direction 7.

[0088] The electrical conductor 6 can be released by moving the reset device 5 in the sliding direction 7 starting from the clamped state K until the locking device 322 of the clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 is locked again with the locking device 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the locking spring 4 in the locked state R.

[0089] Figure 4 The terminal block 100 is shown mounted on a mounting rail 101. The mounting rail 101 is used to arrange a plurality of terminal blocks 100 on the mounting rail 101. Typically, the mounting rail 101 having the terminal blocks 100 arranged in a row is housed in a junction box or a control cabinet.

[0090] Each terminal block 100 may have one or more spring-loaded terminals 1 , each of which may be connected via a continuous busbar 102 .

[0091] Figure 5b and 5d Shown according to Figure 1a 、 1b , 2a, 2b, 3 and 5a and 5c are front views of an embodiment variant of the clamping spring 3 in each case, which is here connected integrally with the retaining spring 4, showing the state before the clamping spring 3 is installed in the terminal housing 12 (5b) and the locked state R ( Figure 5d ).

[0092] Figures 6a to 6fEach of the enlarged details of the terminal block 100 shows another embodiment variant of the spring-type terminal 1 according to the present invention, in particular another embodiment of the clamping spring 3. Figure 6g In FIG. 1 , a spring-type terminal without a terminal housing 12 is shown. Figure 1a 、 1b , 2a, 2b, 3 and 5a to 5d of the spring-type terminal 1 and the clamping spring 3, the following is basically only based on Figures 6a to 6g The differences, additions or changes of the spring-type terminal 1, the clamping spring 3 and the retaining spring 4 in the embodiment variant are described. With reference to FIG1 , other elements and features can be designed as shown in FIG1 .

[0093] According to Figure 1a 、 1b , 2a, 2b, 3 and 5a to 5d of the embodiment variants of the clamping spring 3 is different, according to Figures 6a to 6g The clamping spring 3 in the embodiment variant is not designed as a single piece with the retaining spring 4 or is connected to the retaining spring 4, but is designed as a separate component independent of the retaining spring 4. In this respect, the clamping spring 3 is designed independently of the retaining spring 4.

[0094] The clamping spring 3 in turn has a clamping leg 32 that can be pivoted about a pivot axis 8 in a pivot direction 81, and a locking leg 31, by means of which it can be supported simply and securely on the corresponding support leg 21, particularly when the clamping leg 32 is pivoted. Here, the support leg 31 has a central locking tab 311 that is bent outward from the leg 31. The locking tab 311 is supported on a corresponding support device, in this example, the support leg 21. However, in other exemplary embodiments (not shown here), the support leg 31 can also be supported in other ways, for example directly in the terminal housing 12.

[0095] The supporting leg 31 and the clamping leg 32 are preferably connected to one another via a bend 30. The advantageous supporting contour 14 of the terminal housing 12 engages in the bend 30, which is penetrated here by the rotation axis 8 and also serves as a movement limiting element.

[0096] The spring-loaded terminal 1 here has a separately manufactured retaining spring 4, which is pivotally mounted on the terminal housing 12. The retaining spring 4 has a pressure surface 42. By applying pressure to the pressure surface 42, the retaining spring 3 can be pivoted in the second pivot direction 91. The retaining spring 4 also includes a pivot leg 41. A retaining device 412, integrally formed on the pivot leg 41, is provided on the pivot leg 41. In this case, the retaining device 412 is a locking hook arranged approximately centrally on the pivot leg 41.

[0097] The clamping leg 32 of the clamping spring 3 has, at a certain distance from its clamping edge 321—here approximately halfway along its length—a locking device 322 which corresponds geometrically to the stop device 412 and which, in the locked state R of the clamping leg 32, is operatively connected to the stop device 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the stop spring 4. The locking device 322 is designed here as a recess or step formed in the clamping leg 32 on the line of symmetry of the clamping leg 32 and thus forms a locked connection with the stop device 412 in the locked state R of the clamping leg 32.

[0098] The spring-type terminal 1 may further include a leaf spring 43 , which may additionally support the retaining spring 4 .

[0099] Figure 7a to 7h and Figure 8 8 a to 8 d each show a further particularly advantageous embodiment variant of the clamping spring 3 which is designed integrally with the retaining spring 4 .

[0100] therefore, Figure 7a A first further embodiment variant is shown in which the clamping spring 3 is formed integrally with the retaining spring 4 .

[0101] In this embodiment variant, the retaining means 412 of the pivot leg 41 of the retaining spring 4 is formed as a single hook, preferably formed from a bent piece integrally formed with the pivot leg 41. The corresponding hook can be cut out of the pivot leg 41 and bent therefrom during manufacturing. This shape is exemplary. It can also have slightly different shapes, such as a differently shaped hook end.

[0102] The pivot leg 41 may have a single-sided recess 418 formed by a correspondingly stamped stop. Thus, the first downwardly bent leg 411 of the pivot leg 41 is narrow and, in particular, in accordance with Figure 1a 、 1b Compared to the retaining spring 4 designs of 2a, 2b, 3, and 5a to 5d, this design has a narrower design. This design is characterized by a very simple structure and a very compact design. A recess 323' on one side of the clamping leg 32 is provided for receiving a tab serving as a stop 412. Advantageously, the stop 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the retaining spring 4 can be positioned at a relatively large distance from the clamping edge. The edge of this side recess 323', in this case a narrow edge, serves as a corresponding counter-locking device for the "hook" of the locking device.

[0103] According to Figure 1a 、 1b , 2a, 2b, 3 and 5a to 5d of the clamping spring 3 embodiment variant is different, see Figure 7bThe supporting leg 31 of the clamping spring 3 can have an elongated, for example slot-shaped opening. It can be arranged on both sides along the symmetry line of the supporting leg 31.

[0104] Figure 7a A further embodiment variant is shown of a clamping spring 3 formed integrally with the stop spring 4. The stop means 412 of the pivot leg 41 is likewise formed as a single hook which is cut out integrally from the pivot leg 41 (in this case starting from its center) and is arranged to be bent upwards counter to the direction of conductor insertion, thereby forming an elongated hole in the pivot leg 411.

[0105] according to Figure 7b The locking means 322 of the clamping leg 32 is formed by a hole, specifically an elongated hole 324, in the clamping leg 32, which is spaced a certain distance from the clamping edge 321 and into which the hook of the leg 41 can enter to lock in the open position (not shown here), thereby engaging behind the edge of the hole. This variant is also easy to manufacture and therefore inexpensive and safe. The clamping edge 321 is also advantageously protected since it does not contribute to locking the clamping spring in the open position.

[0106] Two or more Figure 7a Or similarly shaped hooks / tabs may also be provided as stop means 412 (see Figure 7b as well as Figure 8 a to 8d), which can engage the edge on the waist 323 of the clamping leg 321 at the back in either the locked or open state ( Figure 8 b, 8d). During production, the two hooks are partially cut out and bent out of the pivot leg 41 at the edge side.

[0107] according to Figure 7a ) to d) and Figure 8 In a) to d), both the clamping spring 3 and the retaining spring 4 can be formed from a single rectangular blank or strip of constant width, with only the tabs, webs or hooks punched out of the blank shown, which are bent into a certain shape and / or have recesses or holes formed therein.

[0108] According to Figure 7a The embodiment variants of the clamping spring 3 in which the retaining spring 4 is formed integrally with the retaining spring 4, as shown in Figures 7 d and 8 a to 8 d, advantageously represent low-cost embodiments of the clamping spring 3, since in these embodiment variants it can be assumed that the flat semi-finished product already has the final width of the clamping spring 3, and therefore only the edge regions of the flat semi-finished product need to be cut or notched in order to produce the required geometry in these edge regions to form the clamping spring 3 or retaining spring 4. Consequently, there is very little waste or scrap.

[0109] according to Figure 7aTo d, the pressure surface 42 of the retaining spring 4 can have a bead-shaped recess 44 into which the conductor end can be inserted during connection. The bead-shaped recess 44 facilitates bundling / centering of the strands during the connection process, minimizing splitting of the strands. Furthermore, it can increase the stranding force of the strands.

[0110] According to a further advantageous variant (see Figure 7e 、 7f ), the stop element 45 can be applied to the stop spring 4, forming the actual pressure surface on the stop element. This pressure surface can be designed as a convex edge in the stop element. The stop element 45 can be pushed onto the stop spring 4. For example, it can be designed as a block-shaped element made of plastic, which is pushed onto an area of ​​the stop spring 4, which will serve as the pressure surface when there is no stop element 45 ( Figure 7e 、 7f However, the stop element 5 can also be applied by means of an injection molding process (not shown) to a region of the retaining spring 4 which would serve as a pressure surface without the stop element 45 .

[0111] However, in Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiments a) to d), the pressure surface 42 of the retaining spring 4 can, for example, not have a bead-shaped recess 44 or a functional element 45, but can be of flat design. Even in this way, the pressure surface 42 can still function well to release the clamping spring from the locked state.

[0112] according to Figures 7a) to 7f ) can accordingly have a punched edge recess 418 on one side or such edge recesses 418 on both sides of its edge (see also in particular Figure 8 a to 8d). In this way, the first downwardly bent leg 411 of the pivoting leg 41 can be made narrower, in particular in accordance with Figure 1a 、 1b , 2a, 2b, 3 and 5a to 5d are designed to be narrower.

[0113] Figure 7c ) and 7d) and Figure 8 These embodiments a) to 8d) are characterized by a particularly simple construction and a very compact design.

[0114] Two corresponding edge-side recesses 323' can be provided on the clamping leg 32 for insertion of two hooks serving as stop means 412. Advantageously, the stop means 412 of the pivoting leg 41 of the stop spring 4 can be arranged at a relatively large distance from the clamping edge.

[0115] Figure 7c) and 7d) and 7e) and 7f) and 8a) to 8d) of the pivot leg 41 respectively have two edge recesses 418 formed by stamping on the edge side. These embodiments are also characterized by a very simple structure and a very compact design.

[0116] In the locked state, each hook portion 412 can engage an edge as a locking device 322 to engage a corresponding edge on the waist 323 of the clamping leg 321 ( Figure 7c 、 7d ).

[0117] The one or more hooks 412 preferably have a long leg 412a and a short leg or hook leg 412b. The hook leg 412b is preferably aligned at an angle β of 90° to 100° with the long leg 412a, so that it is easy to lock, but also easy to release from the locked state by the pressure exerted by the conductor end on the pressure surface 42, even for a finely stranded conductor.

[0118] According to an advantageous further development, one or more locking means 322—here designed as locking edges—can be provided with a chamfer 322'. The respective chamfer 322' can be designed as a bevel. This helps to simplify the locking of the locking leg, since the locking means 322 engages with the rear side of the one or more locking hooks 412 in the open state.

[0119] The short leg or hook leg 412b can be relatively short and, for example, can have a length of only 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm, in particular 0.5 mm, over a bending radius of, for example, 0.3 to 0.5 mm, so as to be securely locked while still being easily releasable. In general, it is therefore 1.5 mm or shorter, in particular 1 mm or shorter. This length is particularly advantageous for a conductor cross-section of 2.5 mm. It can be adapted accordingly for other conductor cross-sections.

[0120] In this way, the release force of the system can be well defined. It is also possible to form a chamfer at the free end of the respective stop means 412, in particular at the respective short leg 412b of the locking hook, in particular a chamfer of approximately 0.1 mm, in order to optimize the pivoting of the contact leg 32 into its locking position.

[0121] Finally, according to a variant, the leg 413 may have an angle γ of 50° to 70°, in particular 60°, relative to the supporting leg 31 in order to optimize the pivoting of the contact leg 32 interacting with the leg 413 due to the locking overlap.

[0122] Reference Signs List

[0123] 1 Spring-loaded terminal

[0124] 11 jacks

[0125] 12-terminal housing

[0126] 13 gap

[0127] 14 support profiles

[0128] 2 busbars

[0129] 20-terminal housing

[0130] 21 support legs

[0131] 3 Clamping spring

[0132] 30 bending part

[0133] 31 Support Leg

[0134] 311 stopper

[0135] 312a, b connecting legs

[0136] 32 Clamping Legs

[0137] 321 clamping edge

[0138] 322 locking device

[0139] 323 waist

[0140] 323' recess

[0141] 324 slender hole

[0142] 4 retaining springs

[0143] 41 pivoting legs

[0144] 411 Legs

[0145] 412 stop device

[0146] 412a long legs

[0147] 412b short / hook leg

[0148] 413 legs

[0149] 414 bend

[0150] 415 opening

[0151] 416 narrow part

[0152] 418 concavity

[0153] 42 Pressure surface

[0154] 43 leaf spring

[0155] 44 holes

[0156] 45 stop element

[0157] 5Reset device

[0158] 51 actuation slot

[0159] 6 Electrical conductors

[0160] 61 sheath

[0161] 62 core

[0162] 7 sliding directions

[0163] 8 pivot axes

[0164] 81 Pivot direction

[0165] 9 pivot axis

[0166] 91 pivot direction

[0167] 100 terminal blocks

[0168] 101 installation track

[0169] 102 bus

[0170] K clamping state

[0171] R lock status

Claims

1. A spring-type terminal (1) designed as a direct plug-in terminal for connecting a conductor, the spring-type terminal having at least the following parts: a. a busbar (2) for contacting an electrical conductor (6); b. a clamping spring (3), which acts as a compression spring to secure the electrical conductor (6) in the spring-loaded terminal (1), c. a retaining spring (4) formed integrally with the clamping spring (3) for locking the clamping spring (3) in the open position so that the conductor (6) can be inserted into the contact area along the sliding direction (7), d. wherein the clamping spring (3) has a clamping leg (32) capable of pivoting about a first pivot axis (8) in a first pivot direction (81) and having a clamping edge (321), and the retaining spring (4) has a pivoting leg (41) capable of pivoting about a second pivot axis (9) in a second pivot direction (91), e. wherein the pivoting leg (41) has at least one stop means (412) as a first locking means, and the clamping leg (32) has a corresponding locking means (322) which cooperates with the stop means (412) of the pivoting leg (41) in the locked state R of the clamping leg (32), f. wherein the clamping leg (32) is adjusted from a locked state R to a clamping state K by moving the electrical conductor (6), wherein in the locked state R the clamping leg (32) is locked in the open position by a stop device (412) of the pivoting leg (41); wherein in the clamping state K the clamping leg (32) is unlocked from the stop device (412) and presses the electrical conductor (6) against the busbar (2) by means of the clamping edge (321) of the clamping leg (32), g. The clamping spring (3) has a support leg (31), through which the support leg (31) the clamping spring is supported on a corresponding support; h. wherein the retaining spring (4) has a pressure surface (42), and by applying pressure to the conductor end of the electrical conductor on the pressure surface, the electrical conductor is displaced in the second pivot direction (91), thereby causing the pivot leg to pivot, and i. The locking means (322) of the clamping leg (32) is spaced apart from the clamping edge (321) of the clamping leg (32) so that the stop means (412) of the pivoting leg does not lock directly to the clamping edge (321) of the clamping leg; It is characterized by: j. The stopper (412) of the pivot leg (41) is designed as at least one outwardly flared tab and / or hook and is integrally formed with the pivot leg (41); It also includes a reset device (5) for pivoting the clamping leg (32) in the opposite direction, and the reset device (5) is used to pivot the clamping leg (32) from the clamping state (K) back to the locked state (R) by moving the reset device (5) against the pivoting direction (81); The resetting device (5) is arranged between the clamping spring (3) and the electrical conductor (6) in the locked state R and is movable in and against the sliding direction (7); The two hooks are formed integrally with the pivot leg (41) and are partially cut out and bent out of the pivot leg (41) at the edge during manufacture.

2. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The locking device (322) of the clamping leg (32) is formed on the clamping leg (32) at a distance greater than 1 mm from the clamping edge.

3. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The first locking device and / or the counter-locking device may have one or more chamfers.

4. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The pivoting leg (41) is of angled design.

5. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The pressure surface (42) abuts the first leg (411) of the pivot leg (41).

6. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The stop device (412) is designed as a locking edge provided on the second leg (413) of the pivoting leg (41).

7. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that Two hooks are provided as stop means (412) for the pivoting leg (41).

8. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that A corresponding hook is cut laterally or centrally from the material of the pivot leg (41) and bent out from the rear for engaging behind a corresponding edge on the clamping leg (32), the edge being located in a recess or hole in the clamping leg (32) at a distance from the clamping edge (321).

9. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that The one or more hook portions (412) have a long leg (412a) and a short or hooked leg (412b).

10. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that The angle β between the long leg (412a) and the short leg or hook leg (412b) is 90° to 100°.

11. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The stop device (412) of the pivot leg (41) is designed as a web of the pivot leg (41).

12. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that Finally, according to a variant, the second leg (413) of the pivoting leg (41) has an angle γ of 50° to 70° with the supporting leg (31).

13. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The downwardly bent first leg (411) and the upwardly bent second leg (413) of the pivot leg (41) are integrally connected to each other via a bent portion (414).

14. The spring-type terminal (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that The pivoting leg (41) has an opening (415) in which the clamping leg (32) engages in the locked state R of the clamping leg (32).

15. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that The opening (415) has a narrowed portion (416).

16. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that The clamping leg (32) has a waist (323) that corresponds geometrically to the narrow portion (416), so that the clamping leg (32) can move freely through the opening (415).

17. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that The one or more hooks (412) have at least one chamfer at a free end.

18. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The clamping spring and the retaining spring are each formed from a rectangular blank having a constant width.

19. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The corresponding locking means (322) are formed integrally with the clamping leg (32).

20. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The support legs (31) are guided to the busbar (2).

21. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The pivot leg (41) has a cutout (417) defined by a stop (412) of the pivot leg (41).

22. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The spring-type terminal (1) has a leaf spring (43) which additionally supports the retaining spring (4).

23. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that A stop element is applied to the stop spring, on which a pressure surface (42) is formed.

24. The spring-type terminal (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that The pressure surface (42) has a bead-shaped cavity.

25. Terminal block or plug-in connector having one or more spring-loaded terminals according to one or more of the preceding claims.

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