Electrical device for low voltage electrical system

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical device for a low-voltage electrical system. The electrical device includes an insulating housing having one or more terminal ports, each configured as a passage allowing first and second conductors to enter an interior volume of the electrical device. The electrical device also includes one or more electrical terminals each housed in an interior volume of the electrical device at a corresponding terminal port to electrically connect an electrical conductor passing through the terminal port to an interior conductor of the electrical device. Each electrical block is configured such that the routing operation of the conductor can be performed in an independent manner without affecting the coupling condition of the other conductor with the electrical terminal or the routing operation of the other conductor with the electrical terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical device for a low - voltage electrical system. Background Art

[0002] As is well known, electrical devices for low - voltage electrical systems (e.g., circuit breakers, residual current devices, energy meters, etc.) generally include electrical terminals for making electrical and mechanical connections with the conductors of electrical wires.

[0003] In certain applications, it is necessary to couple a main conductor (e.g., a phase conductor or a neutral conductor) and an auxiliary conductor to certain electrical terminals of the electrical device. The main conductor can be a busbar that electrically connects the electrical device to an electrical load, while the auxiliary conductor can be a cable that electrically connects the electrical device to another circuit branch.

[0004] In these applications, electrical terminals configured to electrically connect a pair of external electrical conductors to internal electrical conductors of the electrical device are generally used.

[0005] There are some aspects of currently available electrical terminals of this type that need improvement.

[0006] Typically, these electrical terminals are connected to the main conductor by a screw - less connection, while they are connected to the auxiliary conductor by a screw connection. However, experience has shown that the wiring operation of the auxiliary conductor (especially the operation of disconnecting the wire) may cause the electrical connection between the electrical terminal and the main conductor to become loose.

[0007] This situation can obviously lead to unwanted electrical effects (an increase in the contact resistance of the main conductor), and is often accompanied by related heating phenomena.

[0008] Since the user may not be aware that the electrical connection between the main conductor and the electrical terminal has become loose due to the wiring operation of the auxiliary conductor, the above - mentioned problems usually become more serious.

[0009] In the prior art, there is a certain need for innovative solutions that can overcome or mitigate these critical factors, because these critical factors may pose a risk of damaging the internal components of the electrical device and increase maintenance interventions. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In response to this need, the present invention provides an electrical device according to claim 1 below and the related dependent claims.

[0011] In a general definition, the electrical device of the present invention includes:

[0012] - An insulating housing that defines an internal volume of the electrical device and has one or more terminal ports, each terminal port being configured to allow a first and a second electrical conductor to enter a channel in the internal volume of the electrical device;

[0013] - One or more electrical terminals, each being received in the internal volume of the electrical device at a corresponding terminal port to electrically connect an electrical conductor passing through the terminal port to an internal conductor of the electrical device.

[0014] According to the present invention, an electrical terminal comprises:

[0015] - A support cage, being received in the internal space of the electrical device near the terminal port;

[0016] - An electrode element, electrically connected to an internal conductor of the electrical device and at least partially received in the support cage;

[0017] - A spring element and a pushing element, being coupled to the support cage and at least partially received in the support cage.

[0018] The spring element and the pushing element are arranged on opposite sides of the support cage relative to the electrode element.

[0019] The spring element is configured to cooperate with the electrode element to clamp a first conductor, which passes through the terminal port of the insulating housing and is inserted between the spring element and the electrode element.

[0020] The pushing element is configured to cooperate with the electrode element to clamp a second conductor, which passes through the terminal port and is inserted between the pushing element and the electrode element.

[0021] During the wiring operation of the first and second conductors, the electrode element is coupled to the support cage such that it remains in a fixed position relative to the support cage.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the electrode element has one or more protrusions inserted into corresponding slots of the support cage to clamp the electrode element between opposite walls of the support cage and fix the electrode element to the support cage.

[0023] According to other embodiments of the present invention, the electrical terminal further comprises a retainer element partially surrounding the support cage. The electrode element has one or more protrusions that pass through corresponding openings of the support cage and are inserted into corresponding holes of the retainer element such that the electrode element is clamped between opposite parts of the retainer element and fixed to the support cage.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, the support cage has a box-like structure, the box-like structure including opposite first and second open sides. The first open side faces the terminal port of the insulating housing to receive the first and second conductors passing through the terminal port, while the second open side faces the internal volume of the electrical device. The electrode element protrudes from the second open side to electrically connect to an internal conductor of the electrical device.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, the electrode element has a first coupling surface and a second coupling surface, the first coupling surface being for coupling to a first conductor passing through the terminal port, and the second coupling surface being for coupling to a second conductor passing through the terminal port.

[0026] The electrode element has a coupling portion and a connection portion, the coupling portion being inserted into the support cage and including the first and second coupling surfaces, and the connection portion protruding from the support cage for electrical connection to an internal conductor of the electrical device.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, the spring element is formed by a bent elastic lamina having a first end coupled to the support cage and a second free end disposed near the electrode element, more precisely, the second free end being near or in contact with the first coupling surface of the electrode element.

[0028] The second free end of the elastic lamina has a third coupling surface for coupling to the first conductor passing through the terminal port. The first coupling surface of the electrode element and the third coupling surface of the elastic lamina face each other and define a passage for the first conductor.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, the pushing element includes a screw and a pusher, the screw being inserted through a threaded hole of the support cage and being movable along a translation axis (preferably transverse to the electrode element), and the pusher being coupled to the screw such that it moves along the translation axis together with the screw.

[0030] The pusher includes a fourth coupling surface for coupling to the second conductor.

[0031] The second coupling surface of the electrode element and the fourth coupling surface of the pusher face each other and define a passage for the second conductor.

[0032] Advantageously, the screw is coaxially arranged with an access hole of the insulating housing, the access hole being configured to allow access to the electrical terminal. Description of the Drawings

[0033] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a detailed description of exemplary embodiments, which are illustrated only by way of non-limiting examples in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 An electrical device according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0035] Figures 2-3 Different views of an electrical terminal in the electrical device according to the present invention are schematically shown;

[0036] Figures 4-5Schematically shows the wiring operation of a pair of electrical conductors to Figures 2-3 the electrical terminals of;

[0037] Figures 6-7 Schematically shows different views of another electrical terminal in the electrical device according to the present invention;

[0038] Figures 8-9 Schematically shows the wiring operation of a pair of electrical conductors to Figures 6-7 another electrical terminal of. Detailed Description

[0039] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the present invention relates to an electrical device 1 for a low - voltage electrical system.

[0040] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "low - voltage" refers to an operating voltage level below 1.5 kV AC and 2.0 kV DC.

[0041] In principle, the electrical device 1 can be any electrical device that is electrically and mechanically connected to the conductors of an electric wire. However, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention (examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings), the electrical device 1 is a switching device for a low - voltage electrical system, such as a circuit breaker, a residual current device, etc.

[0042] The electrical device 1 includes an insulating housing 2 that defines an internal volume.

[0043] The insulating housing 2 is conveniently made of an electrically insulating plastic material, such as a thermosetting or thermoplastic material.

[0044] The insulating housing 2 is preferably in the shape of a cuboid with pairs of opposite walls, and it can be formed by a plurality of shells (e.g., a bottom shell and a cover shell) that are mechanically coupled to each other by screw or snap - fit mechanical coupling means.

[0045] For clarity, unless otherwise stated or self - evident from the specification or the drawings, the terms "coupled", "coupled", or "couplable" and other similar terms used in this disclosure all refer to the electrical and mechanical coupling of different components.

[0046] As shown in the referenced figures, on one or more walls of the insulating housing 2, the electrical device 1 can include a plurality of manually operable user interface devices of known types (such as handles, buttons, micro - switches, etc.).

[0047] On one or more additional walls, the insulating housing 2 can include additional mechanical coupling arrangements with a support structure, such as DIN rails.

[0048] According to the present invention, the insulating housing 2 includes one or more terminal ports 20, and each terminal port 20 is configured to allow the first and second electrical conductors 101, 102 to enter the internal space of the electrical device as a passage.

[0049] Preferably, the terminal port 20 is arranged at the lower wall 20a of the insulating housing (referring to the normal vertical mounting position of the electrical device).

[0050] Preferably, the first electrical conductor 101 is a main conductor, such as a phase conductor or a neutral conductor of an electric wire, while the second conductor 102 is an auxiliary conductor 102, such as a phase conductor or a neutral conductor intended to electrically connect the electrical device 1 to another circuit branch.

[0051] As Figures 4-5 shown in FIGS. 8-9, the first conductor 101 may be an electrical busbar, while the second conductor 102 may be a cable. However, the electrical conductors 101, 102 may be configured differently as required.

[0052] In Figure 1 an embodiment, the insulating housing includes a pair of terminal ports 20, each terminal port being configured to allow passage of the first conductor 101 (main conductor) and the second conductor 102 (auxiliary conductor). However, in principle, the number of terminal ports 20 may vary as required.

[0053] The insulating housing 2 may also include terminal ports of a different type compared to the terminal ports 20. For example, it may include a terminal port that is configured to allow passage of a single electrical conductor (usually the conductor 101) into the internal volume of the electrical device.

[0054] Preferably, each terminal port 20 may include a pair of different through-holes 201, 202 of the insulating housing (e.g., having a square cross-section), which are separated from each other by an intermediate housing portion 203, as Figures 4-5 shown in FIGS. 8-9. Each electrical conductor 101, 102 is advantageously inserted through the corresponding through-hole 201, 202.

[0055] However, as an alternative, the terminal port 20 may include a single opening of the insulating housing, through which both the electrical conductors 101, 102 are inserted.

[0056] The electrical conductors 101, 102 may be inserted through the corresponding terminal port 20 in an insertion direction A perpendicular to the terminal port (more precisely, perpendicular to the wall 20a of the insulating housing at which the terminal port 20 is arranged).

[0057] According to the present invention, the electrical device 1 includes one or more electrical terminals 3 accommodated in an internal volume defined by the insulating housing 2.

[0058] Each electrical terminal 3 is arranged near the corresponding terminal port 20 of the insulating housing, and it is configured to be electrically and mechanically connected to the first and second electrical conductors 101, 102 inserted through the corresponding terminal port 20.

[0059] In principle, each electrical terminal 3 can be coupled to only one between the first and second conductors 101, 102 (for example, coupled to the sole main conductor 101). This can occur under certain specific operating conditions, such as when the auxiliary conductor 102 is removed or absent for any reason. However, in most cases, each electrical terminal 3 is coupled to both the first and second conductors 101, 102.

[0060] As will be seen more clearly hereinafter, the electrical terminal 3 can be configured differently depending on the type of conductors 101, 102 to which it is intended to be coupled.

[0061] If it is intended to be coupled to the neutral conductors 101, 102 of the electric wire, the electrical terminal 3 is preferably configured according to Figures 2-5 the embodiment of Figures 6-9 while if it is intended to be connected to the phase conductors 101, 102 of the electric wire, the electrical terminal 3 is preferably configured according to

[0062] The electrical device can include electrical terminals 3 having different configurations. For example, in Figure 1 the embodiment of

[0063] the electrical device 1 includes a pair of electrical terminals (not shown in this figure) having different configurations. One electrical terminal is configured to be coupled to the phase conductor of the electric wire and the corresponding auxiliary conductor, while the other electrical terminal is configured to be coupled to the neutral conductor of the electric wire and the corresponding auxiliary conductor.

[0064] However, generally speaking, the electrical device 1 can include any number or type of electrical terminals 3 as required.

[0065] According to the present invention, each electrical terminal 3 includes a support cage 31 to provide support to other components of the electrical terminal.

[0066] The support cage 31 is received in a corresponding seat 23 in the internal volume of the electrical device defined by the insulating housing 2 ( Figures 4-5 , 8-9).

[0067] Preferably, as shown in the cited drawings, the support cage 31 is sandwiched between a plurality of walls of the insulating housing to be fixed in a proper operating position. Alternatively, the support cage 31 can be fixed to the insulating housing 2 in a different manner, for example, by a suitable snap-coupling arrangement.

[0068] Preferably, the support cage 31 is made of a conductive material to facilitate electrical connection between the supported components.

[0069] Preferably, the support cage 31 has a box-like structure with opposite first and second open sides 311, 312, which are perpendicular to the insertion direction A of the electrical conductors 101, 102 through the terminal port 20.

[0070] The first open side 311 of the support cage 31 faces the terminal port 20 of the insulating housing, such that the support cage 31 can receive the first and second conductors 101, 102 passing through the terminal port.

[0071] The second open side 312 of the support cage 31 faces the internal space of the electrical device and is used for inserting other components of the electrical terminal into the interior of the support cage 31.

[0072] Preferably, the support cage 31 includes first side walls 313 and second side walls 314. The first side walls 313 are opposite to each other and perpendicular to the open sides 311, 312 of the support cage, and the second side walls 314 are opposite to each other and perpendicular to the open sides 311, 312 of the support cage and the first side walls 313.

[0073] The first side walls 313 are conveniently provided with suitable openings 313a, 319, which are intended to facilitate the installation of other components of the electrical terminal on the support cage.

[0074] According to the present invention, each electrical terminal 3 includes an electrode element 32 (made of a conductive material) at least partially received in the support cage 31.

[0075] The electrode element 32 is intended to be electrically connected to an internal conductor (not shown) of the electrical device. Such an internal conductor can be a pole contact member of the electrical device.

[0076] The electrical connection between the electrode element 32 and the internal conductor of the electrical device can be achieved, for example, by a flexible braided conductor (not shown).

[0077] Preferably, the electrode element 32 has a first coupling surface 321 and a second coupling surface 322. When the first conductor 101 is inserted through the port 20, the first coupling surface 321 is used to couple to the first conductor 101, and when the second conductor 102 is inserted through the port 20, the second coupling surface 322 is used to couple to the second conductor 102.

[0078] Advantageously, the first and second coupling surfaces 321, 322 are arranged on opposite sides of the electrode element 32 (along a direction perpendicular to the second side walls 314 of the support cage) and are spaced apart from each other.

[0079] Preferably, the electrode element 32 includes a coupling portion 32a inserted into the support cage 31. The coupling portion 32a conveniently includes the aforementioned first and second coupling surfaces 321, 322 of the electrode element for coupling to the first and second conductors 101, 102.

[0080] Preferably, the electrode element 32 includes a connection portion 32b for electrically connecting to the internal conductor of the electrical device.

[0081] Advantageously, the connection portion 32b protrudes from the support cage 31 at the second opening side 112 of the support cage 31 to make the electrical connection to the internal conductor of the electrical device easier.

[0082] When the electrical terminal 3 is intended to be electrically connected to the neutral conductors 101, 102 of the wire, the electrode element 32 is implemented according to the Figures 2-5 configuration. In this case, the coupling portion 32a of the electrode element has a hook-shaped or ring-shaped configuration, and it includes first and second straight sub-portions 325, 326 arranged in parallel.

[0083] The first and second sub-portions 325, 326 of the electrode element are oriented in a direction parallel to the insertion direction A of the electrical conductors 101, 102 through the terminal port 20.

[0084] The first and second sub-portions 325, 326 of the electrode element are separated from each other by an intermediate sub-portion 324, and the intermediate sub-portion 324 can be oriented perpendicular to the aforementioned first and second sub-portions.

[0085] The intermediate sub-portion 324 can slightly protrude from the first opening side 311 of the support cage, as Figures 2-5 shown.

[0086] Preferably, the first and second straight sub-portions 325, 326 of the electrode element respectively include the first and second coupling surfaces 321, 322 of the electrode element for coupling to the first and second conductors 101, 102. In this way, the first and second coupling surfaces 321, 322 are arranged on opposite sides of the electrode element and are spaced apart from each other.

[0087] When the electrical terminal 3 is intended to be electrically connected to the phase conductors 101, 102 of the wire, the electrode element 32 is implemented according to the Figures 6-9 configuration.

[0088] In this case, the coupling portion 32a of the electrode element has a straight configuration, and it is oriented in a direction parallel to the insertion direction A of the electrical conductors 101, 102.

[0089] As Figures 6-9 shown, the coupling portion 32a can slightly protrude from the first opening side 311 of the support cage.

[0090] According to the present invention, the electrical terminal 3 further includes a spring element 33 and a pushing element 34 that are at least partially received in the support cage 31 and coupled to the support cage 31.

[0091] The spring element 33 and the pushing element 34 are coupled to the support cage 31 and are arranged on opposite sides of the support cage 31 with respect to the electrode element 32. Advantageously, the spring element 33 and the pushing element 34 are coupled to opposite second side walls 314 of the support cage 31.

[0092] The spring element 33 is configured to cooperate with the electrode element 32 to clamp the first conductor 101, which passes through the terminal port 20 of the insulating housing and is inserted between the spring element and the electrode element. By means of the spring element 33, the electrical terminal 3 can be coupled to the first conductor 101 (main conductor) by a screwless type of coupling.

[0093] Preferably, the spring element 33 is formed by a bent elastic sheet having a first end 331 and a second free end 332. The first end 331 is coupled to the support cage 31 at the second side wall 314 of the support cage 31, and the second free end 332 is arranged near the electrode element 32, more specifically, near or in contact with the first coupling surface 321 of the coupling portion 32a of the electrode element.

[0094] Preferably, the spring element 33 is arranged such that the first end 331 is simply held in a fixed position with respect to the second side wall 314 of the support cage by the elastic force exerted by the spring element. For this purpose, when the spring element is received in the support cage 31, it is advantageously pre-compressed. When the conductor 101 is inserted, the spring element is additionally compressed between the second side wall 314 and the conductor 101.

[0095] Preferably, the spring element 33 is coupled to the support cage by a shape coupling between the first end 331 and the second side wall 314.

[0096] At the second free end 332, the elastic sheet 33 has a third coupling surface 333 for coupling to the first conductor 101. Conveniently, the first coupling surface 321 of the electrode element 32 and the third coupling surface 333 of the elastic sheet 33 are arranged opposite to each other and define a channel 101a for the first conductor 101.

[0097] The electrode element 32 and the elastic sheet 33 are positioned relative to each other such that when the first conductor 101 is inserted between the first coupling surface 321 of the electrode element 32 and the third coupling surface 333 of the elastic sheet 33, the elastic sheet 32 bends and stores elastic energy. Thus, by clamping the first conductor 101 against the electrode element 32, the spring element 32 can cooperate with the electrode element 32 to apply a holding force on the first conductor 101.

[0098] The actuating element 34 is configured to cooperate with the electrode element 32 to clamp the second conductor 102, which passes through the terminal port 20 of the insulating housing and is inserted between the actuating element and the electrode element 32. By means of the actuating element 34, the electrical terminal 3 can be coupled to the second conductor 102 (auxiliary conductor) by screw coupling.

[0099] Preferably, the actuating element 34 includes a screw 341 inserted through a threaded hole 315 of the support cage 31. The threaded hole 315 is arranged at the second side wall 314 of the support cage 31, which is opposite to the second side wall where the spring element 32 is located.

[0100] The screw 341 is arranged to pass through the side wall 314 of the support cage at the threaded hole 315. Thus, the screw 341 has a head located outside the support cage 31 and a threaded portion that can be inserted into or withdrawn from the inside of the support cage 31.

[0101] The screw 341 is movable along a translation axis B perpendicular to the side wall 314. The translation axis B is perpendicular to the electrode element, and more specifically, perpendicular to the second coupling surface 322 of the coupling portion 32a of the electrode element ( Figure 4 and 8 ).

[0102] The screw 341 is arranged coaxially (along the translation axis B) with a corresponding access hole 25 of the insulating housing, and the access hole 25 is configured to allow access to the electrical terminal 3.

[0103] The access hole 25 is configured to allow an operator to insert a mechanical tool (such as a screwdriver) to rotate the screw 341 and move the screw 341 along the translation axis b.

[0104] Advantageously, the access hole 25 is arranged in the wall 20b of the insulating housing (the front wall with respect to the normal vertical mounting position of the electrical device), and the wall 20b is perpendicular to the wall 20a where the terminal port 20 is arranged ( Figure 1 ).

[0105] Preferably, the actuating element 34 includes an actuator 342, and the actuator 342 is coupled to the screw 341 so as to move along the translation axis B together with the screw 341.

[0106] As shown in the referenced figure, the actuator 342 can be formed by a C-shaped bracket having a central portion 342c and a pair of parallel legs 342a, 342b.

[0107] The central portion 342c is preferably arranged parallel to the first opening side 311 or the second opening side 312 of the support cage.

[0108] The first leg 342a of the pusher is arranged outside the support cage 31 parallel to the side wall 314 and perpendicular to the open sides 311, 312 of the support cage.

[0109] The first leg 342a of the pusher is coupled to the collar region between the head of the screw 341 and the threaded portion of the screw 341 such that it is always inserted between the head of the screw 341 and the side wall 314 of the support cage.

[0110] The second leg 342b of the pusher is inserted into the support cage 31 between the side wall 314 and the electrode element 32, preferably near the electrode element 32.

[0111] At the second leg 342b, the pusher 342 has a fourth coupling surface 344 for coupling to the second conductor 102. Conveniently, the second coupling surface 322 of the electrode element 32 and the fourth coupling surface 344 of the pusher are opposite each other and define a channel 102b for the second conductor 102.

[0112] When the second conductor 102 is inserted between the second coupling surface 322 of the electrode element 32 and the fourth coupling surface 344 of the pusher 342, when the pusher element is tightened, more precisely, when the screw 341 is tightened and pressure is applied on the pusher 342, the pusher element 34 can cooperate with the electrode element 32 to apply a holding force on the second conductor 102, and the pusher element 34 then clamps the second conductor 102 against the electrode element 32.

[0113] An important aspect of the present invention is that the electrode element 32 is arranged such that it does not move freely relative to the support cage 31. In other words, the electrode element 32 is coupled to the support cage 31 such that it always maintains a fixed position relative to the support cage 31.

[0114] This solution is very advantageous because the electrode element 32 can maintain a fixed position under any operating conditions, especially during the wiring operation of the electrical conductors 101, 102.

[0115] For example, different from the electrical terminals of the prior art, if the second conductor 102 is removed for any reason while the first conductor 101 is still clamped between the spring element 32 and the electrode element 32, the electrode element 32 will not move relative to the support cage 31 even if the electrode element 32 is subjected to the pressure applied by the spring element 32 (through the first conductor 101), and the pusher element 34 is relaxed to allow the removal of the second conductor 102.

[0116] As a further example, if the second conductor 102 is inserted between the electrode element 32 and the pushing element 34 for any reason when the first conductor 101 is absent, then when the pushing element 34 is tightened to clamp the second conductor 102 against the electrode element 32, the electrode element 32 will not move relative to the support cage 31 even if it is subjected to the pressure exerted by the pushing element 34 (through the second conductor 102).

[0117] The fact that the electrode element 32 is fixed to the support cage 31 ensures that the wiring operation of the second conductor 102 basically does not affect the electrical and mechanical coupling between the first conductor 101 and the electrical terminal.

[0118] On the one hand, the removal of the auxiliary conductor 102 does not cause an undesired loosening of the screwless coupling between the first conductor 101 and the electrical terminal. On the other hand, inserting the auxiliary conductor 102 before the first conductor 101 does not make the subsequent coupling of the first conductor 101 and the electrical terminal 3 more difficult due to possible displacement of the passage between the spring element 33 and the electrode element 32.

[0119] The way in which the electrode element 32 is fixed to the support cage 31 can vary according to the type of conductors 101, 102 to which the electrical terminal 3 is intended to be coupled.

[0120] If it is intended to be coupled to the neutral conductors 101, 102 of a wire, the electrical terminal 3 is preferably configured according to Figures 2-5 the embodiment.

[0121] In this case, the electrode element 32 has one or more protrusions 327 inserted into corresponding slots 317 in the opposite walls 313 of the support cage 31, such that the electrode element 32 is clamped between the opposite walls 313 of the support cage and is fixed to the support cage.

[0122] Preferably, the coupling portion 32a of the electrode element includes a pair of opposite protrusions 327 at the first straight sub - portion 325. The protrusions 327 extend laterally (preferably perpendicularly) with respect to the main longitudinal axis of the electrode element.

[0123] Preferably, the opposite first side walls 313 of the support cage include a pair of slots 317 near the second opening side 312. Thus, when the electrode element 32 is inserted into the interior of the support cage through the second opening side 312, the protrusions 327 can be easily inserted into the corresponding slots 317 of the support cage 31 in a slidable manner.

[0124] Thus, the electrode element 32 can be fixed to the support cage 31 without the need for screws or other similar types of coupling devices, which significantly simplifies the assembly process of the electrical terminal 3 at the industrial level.

[0125] If it is intended to be connected to the phase conductors 101, 102 of an electric wire, the electrical terminal 3 is preferably configured according to Figures 6-9 the embodiment of

[0126] In this case, the electrical terminal 3 includes a retaining element 35 that partially surrounds the support cage 31. The electrode element 32 has one or more protrusions 328 that pass through corresponding openings 319 in the support cage 31 and are inserted into corresponding holes 355 in the retaining element 35, such that the electrode element 32 is clamped between opposite portions 354 of the retaining element and is fixed to the support cage.

[0127] Preferably, the retaining element 35 is formed by a C-shaped bracket having a central portion 353 arranged parallel to the second side wall 314 of the support cage and a pair of opposite legs 354 extending parallel to the opposite first side wall 313 of the support cage, and the spring element 32 is fixed to the central portion 353. The opposite legs 354 of the bracket element have holes 355 that are coaxially arranged with the openings 319 in the side wall 313 of the support cage.

[0128] Preferably, the coupling portion 32a of the electrode element includes a pair of opposite protrusions 328 that extend laterally (preferably perpendicularly) with respect to the main longitudinal axis of the electrode element.

[0129] When the electrode element 32 is inserted into the interior of the support cage through the second opening side 312, the opposite protrusions 328 pass through the openings 319 in the first side wall 313 of the support cage and are inserted into the corresponding holes 355 in the legs 354 of the retaining element, such that the electrode element 32 is clamped between the opposite legs 354 of the support element and is fixed to the support cage.

[0130] Also in this case, the electrode element 32 can be fixed to the support cage 31 without the need for screws or other similar types of coupling devices.

[0131] Figures 4-5 Figures 8-9 show how the wiring operations of the first and second conductors 101, 102 are carried out.

[0132] Insertion and removal of the first conductor 101

[0133] The first conductor 101 is inserted through the terminal port 20 (e.g., through the first through-hole 201) and the channel 101a defined by the electrode element 32 and the spring element 33.

[0134] When the first conductor 101 is inserted between the first coupling surface 321 of the electrode element 32 and the third coupling surface 333 of the spring element 33, the spring element is compressed (the elastic sheet is bent) and applies pressure to the first conductor 101 clamped against the electrode element 32.

[0135] Thus, the spring element 33 cooperates with the electrode element 32 to apply a holding force on the first conductor 101, thereby maintaining electrical and mechanical contact with the electrode element 32.

[0136] The removal of the first conductor 101 can be simply performed by extracting the first conductor 101 through the terminal port 20.

[0137] Insertion and removal of the second conductor 102

[0138] The pushing element 34 is initially considered to be in a loose state.

[0139] The second conductor 102 is inserted through the terminal port 20 (e.g., through the first through-hole 201) and the channel 102a defined by the electrode element 32 and the pusher 342 of the pushing element 34.

[0140] Once the second conductor 102 is inserted between the second coupling surface 322 of the electrode element 32 and the fourth coupling surface 344 of the pusher 342, the screw 341 of the pusher element is tightened by actuation with a suitable tool (e.g., a screwdriver) inserted through the access hole 25 in the insulating housing.

[0141] The screw 341 moves the pusher 342 towards the electrode element 32. The pusher 342 thus applies pressure on the second conductor 102, and the second conductor 102 is clamped against the electrode element 32.

[0142] The pushing element 34 thus cooperates with the electrode element 32 to apply a holding force on the second conductor 102, thereby maintaining electrical and mechanical contact with the electrode element 32.

[0143] The pushing element 34 should now be in a tightened state, in which the pushing element 34 clamps the second conductor against the electrode element 32.

[0144] To remove the second conductor 102, the screw 341 of the pusher element is loosened by actuation with a suitable tool (e.g., a screwdriver) inserted through the access hole 25 in the insulating housing.

[0145] Once the pushing element 34 is in a loose state, the removal of the second conductor 102 can be simply performed by pulling out the second conductor 102 through the terminal port 20.

[0146] The electrical device according to the present invention provides relevant advantages over the prior art solutions.

[0147] In the electrical device of the present invention, each electrical block is configured such that the wiring operation of the conductors can be performed in an independent manner without affecting the coupling condition of another conductor with the electrical terminal or the wiring operation of another conductor with the electrical terminal.

[0148] For example, the operation of removing an electrical conductor (especially an auxiliary conductor) from the wire of an electrical terminal does not in any way affect the quality of the electrical and mechanical connection between another electrical conductor (especially the main conductor) and the electrical terminal.

[0149] Conversely, the operation of inserting an electrical conductor (especially an auxiliary conductor) into the wire of an electrical terminal does not make it more difficult for another electrical conductor (especially the main conductor 101) to be subsequently inserted into the electrical terminal.

[0150] Due to the above technical capabilities, the operating reliability of the electrical device is greatly improved compared with the traditional electrical devices of the prior art. In particular, the unforeseen coupling loosening between the main conductor and the electrical device is prevented or greatly restricted.

[0151] Due to the special configuration of the electrical terminal, the electrical device of the present invention can provide the above advantages without any increase in the overall size compared with the traditional devices available on the market.

[0152] Compared with the existing electrical devices at the prior art level, the electrical device of the present invention has been proven to be easy to manufacture industrially and has a competitive cost.

Claims

1. An electrical device (1) for a low-voltage electrical system, the electrical device comprising: - an insulating housing (2) defining an internal volume of the electrical device and having one or more terminal ports (20), each of the terminal ports being configured to allow a first conductor (101) and a second conductor (102) to enter a passage in the internal volume of the electrical device; - one or more electrical terminals (3), each being received in the internal volume of the electrical device at a corresponding terminal port (20) to electrically connect an electrical conductor passing through the terminal port to an internal conductor of the electrical device; characterized in that the electrical terminal (3) comprises: - a support cage (31) received in the internal volume of the electrical device near the terminal port (20); - an electrode element (32) electrically connected to an internal conductor of the electrical device and at least partially received in the support cage; - a spring element (33) and a pushing element (34) coupled to the support cage (31) and at least partially received in the support cage, wherein the spring element and the pushing element are arranged on opposite sides of the support cage relative to the electrode element (32), wherein the spring element cooperates with the electrode element (32) to clamp the first conductor (101), the first conductor (101) passing through the terminal port (20) of the insulating housing and being inserted between the spring element and the electrode element, wherein the pushing element cooperates with the electrode element (32) to clamp the second conductor (102), the second conductor (102) passing through the terminal port (20) and being inserted between the pushing element and the electrode element; wherein during a wiring operation of the first conductor (101) and the second conductor (102), the electrode element (32) is coupled to the support cage (31) such that it remains in a fixed position relative to the support cage.

2. The electrical device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrode element (32) has one or more protrusions (327) inserted into corresponding slots (317) of the support cage (31) such that the electrode element is clamped between opposite walls (313) of the support cage and fixed to the support cage.

3. The electrical device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical terminal (3) includes a retainer element (35) surrounding the support cage (31) outwardly, wherein the electrode element (32) has one or more protrusions (328) passing through corresponding openings (319) of the support cage and inserted into corresponding holes (355) of the retainer element (35) such that the electrode element (32) is clamped between opposite parts (354) of the retainer element and fixed to the support cage.

4. The electrical device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support cage (31) has a box-shaped structure, the box-shaped structure including opposite first and second opening sides (311, 312), the first opening side (311) facing the terminal port (20) of the insulating housing to receive the first conductor (101) and the second conductor (102), and the second opening side (312) facing the internal volume of the electrical device, wherein the electrode element (32) projects from the second opening side (312) for electrical connection to an internal conductor of the electrical device.

5. The electrical device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The electrode element (32) has a first coupling surface (321) for coupling to the first conductor (101) and a second coupling surface (322) for coupling to the second conductor (102).

6. The electrical device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The electrode element (32) has a coupling portion (32a) and a connecting portion (32b), the coupling portion (32a) being inserted into the support cage (31) and including the first coupling surface (321) and the second coupling surface (322), and the connecting portion (32b) projecting from the support cage (31) for electrical connection to an internal conductor of the electrical device.

7. The electrical device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The spring element (33) is formed from a bent elastic sheet, the elastic sheet having a first end (331) coupled to the support cage (31) and a second free end (332) disposed near the electrode element (32).

8. The electrical device according to claims 5 and 7, characterized in that, The second free end (332) of the elastic sheet (33) has a third coupling surface (333) for coupling to the first conductor (101), wherein the first coupling surface (321) of the electrode element (32) and the third coupling surface (333) of the elastic sheet (33) face each other and define a passage (101a) for the first conductor (101).

9. The electrical device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pushing element (34) includes: - a screw (341) inserted through a threaded hole (315) of the support cage (31) and capable of moving along a translation axis (B); - a pusher (342) coupled to the screw (341) such that it moves along the translation axis (B) together with the screw (341).

10. The electrical device according to claims 5 and 9, characterized in that, The pusher (342) includes a fourth coupling surface (344) for coupling to the second conductor (102), wherein the second coupling surface (322) of the electrode element (32) and the fourth coupling surface (344) of the pusher (34) face each other and define a passage (102a) for the second conductor (102).

11. The electrical device according to any one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that, The screw (341) and an access hole (25) of the insulating housing are coaxially arranged, wherein the access hole is configured to allow access to the electrical terminal (3).

12. The electrical device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The electrical device is a switchgear or metering device for a low-voltage electrical system.

Images