Connecting device for connecting conductor ends

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting device for connecting conductor ends, comprising a housing (2) having a rear wall (22) and a front wall (21), a busbar (12) arranged in the housing (2); and comprising a V-shaped clamping spring (11) having a support leg (13) supported on the support, a pivotable clamping leg (15) and a spring back (14) connecting the two legs (13, 15), the clamping leg being moved into a latching position (15) in which the clamping leg is releasably latched in a preloaded manner, the clamping leg (15) being designed to be moved into a contact position after the latching position is released, according to the invention, a conductor introduction channel (27) is formed in the housing (1), and the housing (2) has a receiving chamber (26) which is open towards a front wall (21) of the housing (1), and the clamping spring (11) is locked at least in the latching position by a spring restraint retaining means (3), preferably perpendicular to a rear wall (22), against a possible drop out of the receiving chamber (26).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a connecting device for connecting conductor ends according to the preamble of claim 1 . Background Art

[0002] DE 10 2004 001 202 A1 discloses a connection device for connecting conductor ends in which a clamping spring locked in the open state is released from the locked position by pivoting a lever, thereby relaxing the clamping spring and allowing a conductor, which can be introduced into the clamping area, to be pressed against a busbar to contact the conductor end. The locked state can be restored using a screwdriver, for example.

[0003] In EP 2 768 079 A1 of this type, a push-in clamping terminal is known which can be locked in a locked state and has a pressure element arranged between a clamping spring and a conductor to be contacted.

[0004] WO 2017 / 207429 A2 also discloses that a plug-in clamping terminal with a clamping spring can be released from its locked position using two different adjustment means, wherein one adjustment means can be configured as a rocker that can be actuated via the free conductor end, and the other adjustment means can be configured as a pressure element. The locked position is restored using the pressure element.

[0005] The connection device of EP 2 768 079 A1 is to be further developed in such a way that the clamping spring is structurally well secured against possible falling out of the housing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The invention achieves this object by means of the invention defined in claim 1. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent claims.

[0007] Therefore, a connecting device for connecting conductor ends is provided, which includes a housing with a rear wall and a front wall, a busbar arranged in the housing; and the connecting device includes a V-shaped clamping spring arranged in the housing and acting as a compression spring when the conductor ends are in contact, the clamping spring having a support leg supported on a support, a pivotable clamping leg and a spring back connecting the two legs; wherein the clamping leg moves into a locking position in which the clamping leg can be releasably locked in a pre-tensioned manner; wherein the clamping leg moves into a contact position after the locking position is released; wherein a conductor is constructed in the housing. The housing further comprises a conductor insertion channel, through which the conductor end to be connected can be guided into the contact-conducting area between the busbar and the free end of the clamping spring; and wherein the housing has a receiving chamber open to the front wall of the housing for inserting and receiving the clamping spring, wherein a housing protrusion is formed in the receiving chamber and the clamping spring overlaps the housing protrusion; wherein the clamping spring is locked (sichern) by a spring restraint retaining mechanism (Federrückhalteeinrichtung) - preferably perpendicular to the rear wall - at least in the locked position to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber.

[0008] In this way, the clamping spring can be well secured in a structurally simple manner against possible falling out of the housing even in the locked state, in which the distance between the clamping leg and the support leg is reduced and in which the clamping spring is therefore in a compressed state, in which the free ends of the clamping legs do not act behind the housing wall and in which the clamping spring is not secured against possible falling out by the clamping force of the clamping legs, which are pressed against the busbar or conductor.

[0009] The present invention is particularly well suited for connection devices of a design in which the clamping leg can be releasably latched in the latching position directly with latching means formed on the clamping leg to corresponding mating latching means of the latching spring. However, this can also be implemented in connection devices in which the clamping leg can be releasably latched in the latching position indirectly with latching means formed on another element than the clamping leg to corresponding mating latching means.

[0010] A particularly preferred application is a design in which the clamping leg can be releasably latched in the open position directly by means of latching means formed on the clamping leg to corresponding counter-latching means of the latching spring. It can be preferably and advantageously simple to assemble that the clamping spring and the latching spring are formed as a fixedly connected—preferably integral—spring unit, and that this spring unit is secured, at least in the latched position, by means of the spring-retaining mechanism to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber.

[0011] Preferably, the spring-retaining mechanism comprises at least one retaining projection of the first element, which interacts with at least one edge of the counterpart element to form a recess (Hinterschnitt, sometimes also translated as "undercut," "cutout," "undercut," or "recess"), which secures at least the clamping spring or, if applicable, the entire spring unit perpendicularly to the rear wall to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber. This is because it can be realized structurally simply while still achieving good securing of the spring unit in the locked and thus compressed state.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one retaining projection of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is formed on the housing, and the rim is a rim of the spring unit. This is because the retaining projection can be particularly easily implemented on the housing. However, a kinematic reversal is also possible, in which the at least one retaining projection of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is formed on the spring unit, and the rim is a rim of the housing.

[0013] Alternatively, a design scheme can also be implemented in which the at least one retaining protrusion of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is constructed at the bus bar or at the operating member, and in which the edge is the edge of the spring unit, or in which the at least one retaining protrusion of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is constructed at the spring unit, and in which the edge is the edge of the bus bar or the operating member.

[0014] In particular, the edge can be a narrow side of the spring unit, which can also be formed in the region of the edge recess or the window.

[0015] According to further design variants of the invention, which can all be readily implemented, it can be provided that the at least one retaining projection of the housing is a retaining projection which is integrally connected to the housing or that the at least one retaining projection of the housing is a retaining projection which is attached to the housing.

[0016] In a preferred advantageous embodiment, it can then be provided that the at least one retaining projection connected integrally to the housing is integrally connected to the housing via a movable section, in particular a film hinge strip, and that the retaining projection can be brought from a release position into a securing position, in which it secures the edge of the spring unit against possible falling out. Assembly is thus particularly simple, with the retaining projection being provided directly on the housing in a captive manner for assembly.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one retaining projection of the housing is formed from the housing material by a reshaping process. This allows, after the spring unit is assembled, a particularly good securing of the spring unit against possible falling out to be achieved in a simple manner, possibly also at multiple sections of the narrow side of the spring unit.

[0018] However, it can also be provided that the at least one retaining projection attached to the housing is fixed to the housing by adhesive bonding, form-locking, force-locking and / or material-locking means.

[0019] A further advantageous embodiment is characterized in that the at least one retaining projection of the housing, the busbar or the actuating element partially covers the edge of the spring unit at the narrow side of the spring unit facing away from the rear wall, or the at least one retaining projection of the housing, the busbar or the actuating element engages in an edge recess or window of the spring unit, where the at least one retaining projection locks the spring unit at the edge.

[0020] A design is also preferred in which the retaining projection forming the spring-retaining retaining means is designed parallel to the front wall and aligned with the front wall, so that during assembly, the support leg or clamping leg can be placed from the front wall behind this wall section, thereby positively locking the support leg or clamping leg on the side facing the front wall to prevent it from falling out. In general, with these designs, the spring unit can be assembled particularly well by first rotating the spring unit into the introduction position and then rotating it after introduction so that the projection locks the edge of the spring unit on the narrow side or in the edge recess or window to prevent it from falling out.

[0021] Provision can also be made here for the retaining projection to be integrally formed onto the housing projection in the assembly opening.

[0022] However, it can also be provided that the retaining projection is designed as a latching hook which is integrally formed on the housing, for example on the rear wall, which extends into the receiving chamber and behind which the spring unit can be latched during assembly.

[0023] According to a series of advantageous embodiments, the retaining projection of the spring-tensioning retaining device, which is integrated into the housing, is formed before the clamping spring is introduced into the housing, for example by injection molding.

[0024] Alternatively, however, provision can also be made for the retaining projection of the spring-restricting retaining device, which is integrated into the housing, to be formed after the clamping spring has been introduced into the housing, in particular by a pressing method.

[0025] Finally, it is also conceivable within the scope of the invention that the spring-loaded retaining means integrated into the housing is designed as a projection of an otherwise immovable busbar inserted into the housing.

[0026] The present invention further provides an advantageous electrical device, in particular a clamping terminal block or an arrayable plug connector housing, comprising one or more connecting devices according to any of the claims associated therewith. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings using preferred embodiments. The present invention is not limited to these embodiments but may be varied within the scope of the claims and implemented in various ways. In particular, individual features of individual embodiments may be combined in various ways or used in other embodiments. The drawings show:

[0028] Figures 1a to 1d exist Figure 1a A side view of a first connection clamping terminal with a housing and a connection device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 1b Shown in Figure 1a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 1c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 1b Line AA passes through Figure 1b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 1d Shown in Figure 1a A perspective view of the arrangement structure in FIG.

[0029] Figures 2a to 2d exist Figure 2a A side view of a second connection clamping terminal with a housing and a connection device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 2b Shown in Figure 2a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 2c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 2b Line AA passes through Figure 2b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 2d Shown in Figure 2a A perspective view of the arrangement structure in FIG.

[0030] Figures 3a to 3d exist Figure 3a A side view of a third connection clamping terminal with a housing and a connection device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 3b Shown in Figure 3a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 3c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 3b Line AA passes through Figure 3b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 3d Shown in Figure 3a A perspective view of the arrangement structure in FIG.

[0031] Figures 4a to 4d exist Figure 4a A side view of a fourth connection clamping terminal with a housing and a connection device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 4b Shown in Figure 4a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 4c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 4b Line AA passes through Figure 4b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 4d Shown in Figure 4a A perspective view of the arrangement structure in FIG.

[0032] Figures 5a to 5g exist Figure 5a A side view of a fifth connection clamping terminal with a housing and a connection device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 5b Shown in Figure 5a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 5c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 5b Line AA passes through Figure 5b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 5d Shown in Figure 5a A perspective view of the arrangement in FIG. Figure 5e 、 Figure 5f and Figure 5g Shown in Figure 5a The metal components of the connecting device to Figure 5a three successive steps of inserting the housing;

[0033] Figures 6a to 6g exist Figure 6a A side view of a sixth connection clamping terminal with a housing and a connection device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 6b Shown in Figure 6aThe view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 6c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 6b Line AA passes through Figure 6b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 6d Shown in Figure 6a A perspective view of the arrangement in FIG. Figure 6e 、 Figure 6f and Figure 6g Shown in Figure 6a The metal components of the connecting device to Figure 6a three successive steps of inserting the housing;

[0034] Figures 7a to 7h exist Figure 7a A side view of the seventh connecting clamping terminal with a housing and a connecting device for connecting a conductor end, more precisely without the additional elements being pressed in, is shown in FIG. Figure 7b Shown in Figure 7a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 7c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 7b Line AA passes through Figure 7b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 7d Shown in Figure 7a A perspective view of the arrangement in FIG. Figure 7e 、 Figure 7f 、 Figure 7g or Figure 7h Shown in Figure 7a 、 Figure 7b 、 Figure 7c 、 Figure 7d An illustration of an additional element with a depression produced by pressing;

[0035] Figures 8a to 8h exist Figure 8a A side view of an eighth connecting clamping terminal with a housing and a connecting device for connecting a conductor end and an additional element which has not yet been assembled and is therefore shown spaced apart is shown in FIG. Figure 8b Shown in Figure 8a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 8c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 8b Line AA passes through Figure 8b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 8d Shown in Figure 8a A perspective view of the arrangement in FIG. Figure 8e 、 Figure 8f 、 Figure 8g or Figure 8h Shown in Figure 8a 、 Figure 8b 、 Figure 8c 、 Figure 8d Illustration with assembled add-on components;

[0036] Figures 9a to 9h exist Figure 9a A side view of a ninth connecting clamping terminal with a housing and a connecting device for connecting a conductor end and an integrally attached fixing clip (Befestigungslasche) which is not yet assembled and is therefore shown spaced apart is shown. Figure 9b Shown in Figure 9a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 9c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 9b Line AA passes through Figure 9b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 9d Shown in Figure 9a A perspective view of the arrangement in FIG. Figure 9e 、 Figure 9f 、 Figure 9g or Figure 9h Shown in Figure 9a 、 Figure 9b 、 Figure 9c 、 Figure 9d Illustration with assembled add-on components;

[0037] Figures 10a to 10d exist Figure 10a A side view of the tenth connecting clamping terminal with a housing and a connecting device for connecting a conductor end is shown in FIG. Figure 10b Shown in Figure 10a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 10c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 10b Line AA passes through Figure 10b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 10d Shown in Figure 10a A perspective view of the arrangement structure in FIG.

[0038] Figures 11a to 11h exist Figure 11a A side view of an eleventh connecting clamping terminal with a housing and a connecting device for connecting a conductor end and a fixing clip which has not yet been assembled and is therefore shown expanded is shown in FIG. Figure 11b Shown in Figure 11a The view in , supplemented by a section line AA; Figure 11c Indicates perpendicular to the drawing plane and along Figure 11b Line AA passes through Figure 11b A cross-sectional view of the arrangement in Figure 11d Shown in Figure 11a A perspective view of the arrangement in FIG. Figure 11e 、 Figure 11f 、 Figure 11g or Figure 11h Shown in Figure 11a 、 Figure 11b 、 Figure 11c 、 Figure 11d with the attached components assembled; and

[0039] Figures 12a to 12b exist Figure 12a Shown in Figure 12a Exploded view of the metal and control components of the terminal block, and in Figure 12b Shown in Figure 12a A perspective view of the components in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Figures 1a to 12b Connecting devices for connecting conductor ends are shown in each case. These connecting devices are each designed as connecting clamps for clamping conductor ends, wherein the respective conductor end is pressed against a busbar in order to bring them into electrically conductive contact.

[0041] The corresponding connecting device has a housing 2 made of plastic. The connecting device 1 can form part of an electrical device. In this way, the connecting device can form a connecting device 1 for a clamping terminal strip. For example, the corresponding housing 2 can also be provided with latching feet for latching onto a support rail. However, the device can also be designed as a plug connector. The corresponding connecting device 1 in the housing 2 is then connected in an electrically conductive manner to a plug contact, which can form part of the plug surface. The corresponding electrical device can also have two or more connecting devices 1, wherein two or more metal component features can also be configured in a single housing.

[0042] The housing 2 of the connecting device 1 is preferably designed to be alignable and mountable. The housing 2 is preferably made of insulating plastic.

[0043] The housing 2 preferably has two main sides that can be arranged in an aligned manner, of which one main side, here the front wall 21, is partially open, while the other main side, here the rear wall 22, can be completely or substantially closed. The housing 2 also has one or more narrow sides 23, 24 that connect the front wall 21 and the rear wall 22 (see, for example, Figure 1c ).

[0044] Fastening means, such as retaining feet, can be arranged on the housing for fastening the housing 2 to a mounting base, for example a supporting rail (not shown here).

[0045] Each of the connection devices has a clamping spring 11 , with which a conductor end can be pressed against an electrically conductive busbar 12 .

[0046] The clamping spring 11 can be designed essentially in a V-shaped or U-shaped manner and has a supporting leg 13 , a pivotable clamping leg 15 and a spring back 14 connecting the two legs 13 , 15 .

[0047] The support leg 13 can be supported on a projection of the housing 2 and / or on another support, for example, a support leg 121 bent out from the busbar 12 (see, for example, Figure 1a ).

[0048] The clamping spring 11 preferably consists of a metal sheet bent into a V-shape, for example made of alloy steel.

[0049] A latching spring 18 is provided in addition to the clamping spring 11. This latching spring serves to keep the clamping legs 15 tensioned in the open state and also to latch them, so that the clamping legs 15 and thus the entire clamping spring 11 are in a prestressed latching position, in which a conductor can then be introduced into the contact-making region between the busbar and the clamping legs.

[0050] If this open and locked state is released, the clamping leg 15 is pivoted toward the busbar and comes into contact with it or, if applicable, with the end of a conductor introduced between the free end of the clamping leg 15 and the busbar 12 (contact-conducting region).

[0051] The latching spring 18 is here formed integrally with the clamping spring 11. However, the latching spring 18 can also be formed separately from the clamping spring 11 (not shown) and connected to the support leg 13, for example, by material connection, form connection, force connection, adhesive bonding and / or by other methods.

[0052] According to the exemplary embodiment of the accompanying figures, the support leg 13 serves both as a support leg for the clamping spring 11 and as a support leg for the latching spring 18 .

[0053] The latching spring 18 has a latching leg 182 which is integrally formed at the end of the support leg 13 opposite the clamping leg 15. The support leg 13 and the latching leg 182 together again form a roughly V-shaped spring. A connecting back or connecting arc 131 is formed between them.

[0054] A latching means is formed on the latching leg 182. For example, the latching means can be formed by a latching hook, such as a latching hook in the manner of a strip 181 (steg), which, apart from the connection region, can be cut freely from the material of the latching leg 18 and bent out. The strip 181 is preferably bent in such a way that it can releasably latch onto a corresponding mating latching means of the clamping leg 15 in the manner of a hook. The mating latching means can be designed as a latching edge 152 of a recess 151 (which can be an edge recess or a through-opening) in the clamping leg 15.

[0055] The latching means and the counter-latching means are arranged in such a way that the clamping leg—as can be seen, for example, in FIG. 1 —can be releasably latched in the open and latched position of the clamping leg 15 .

[0056] Alternatively, the latching means and the counter-latching means can also be designed differently from the above. Thus, a latch or strip can be formed on the clamping leg 15, while a corresponding edge recess or through-opening can be formed on the latching leg 182 (not shown here). Furthermore, multiple latching means and counter-latching means can also be provided. The preferably optional spacing of the latching structure from the latching leg is advantageous because it protects the latching edge.

[0057] In order to release the latching structure, an actuating element for releasing the latching structure is integrated into the corresponding connecting device 1. The actuating element for releasing the latching structure can be designed as an actuating element that can be actuated by a conductor end.

[0058] According to the exemplary embodiment of the accompanying figures, the actuating element is designed as an actuating leg 183 at the free end of the latching leg 18 of the latching spring 18. The actuating leg 183 can have an actuating surface 1831 for acting on the conductor (see also FIG. Figure 12a The actuating leg can be designed as an angled extension of the latching leg 182, which extends into a region in which the actuating surface can be moved together with the conductor end during insertion through the contact region of the connecting device until the aforementioned latching arrangement between the latching means of the latching leg 182 and the mating latching means of the clamping leg 15 can be released by pressure on the actuating surface and by pivoting the latching leg 182 downwards.

[0059] In the region of the control surface for the conductor, the control legs 183 can be oriented approximately at right angles to the conductor insertion direction X (see, for example, Figure 1b ).

[0060] The release of the clamping spring for removing the conductor and the locking of the clamping leg 15 in the locked position can be effected, for example, indirectly via an actuating element, preferably a push element 16 .

[0061] One or more receiving chambers 26 extend from the front wall 21 into the housing 2 . At least one of these receiving chambers 26 is used to insert at least the clamping spring 11 and, if present, the latching spring 18 from the front wall 21 into the housing 2 .

[0062] Therefore, the receiving chamber 26 can also be synonymously referred to as the clamping spring receiving chamber 26 .

[0063] According to the exemplary embodiment of the accompanying figures, the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 are each designed as a single piece. The combined, single-piece clamping and latching springs 11 and 18 are then inserted as a spring unit from the open side of the front wall 21 into the clamping spring receiving chamber 26 . This insertion is performed so that the clamping spring engages over a housing projection 261 and the support leg 13 rests on the housing 2 or on the busbar 12 . The busbar 12 is also introduced from the front wall 21 into the receiving chamber 26 . It is bent into a U-shape. The contact leg 122 of the busbar 12 faces the free end of the clamping leg 15 , allowing contact between the conductor ends in the contact-conducting region between the leg 12 a and the free end of the clamping leg 13 . The support leg 121 of the busbar (which is bent into a U-shape here) serves to support the support leg 13 of the clamping spring, and the connecting strip 122 of the U-shaped busbar 12 extends below the actuating leg 183. The busbar 12 can be made of a metal strip and is preferably bent substantially in an L- or U-shape. The busbar 12 can also be inserted into the receiving chamber 26 together with the clamping spring 11 and / or the latching spring 18 as a spring unit. However, the busbar can also be inserted separately therefrom.

[0064] To be inserted into its receiving chamber 26, the clamping spring 11 is preferably locked. The clamping spring is preferably introduced perpendicularly to the rear wall 22—possibly with a rotational movement—and inserted into the receiving chamber 26. To this end, the clamping spring is preferably locked to the locking spring 18 in the open and locked positions beforehand—if a locking spring 18 is present. The spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 can then be inserted into the receiving chamber 26 from the side of the front wall 21. According to the exemplary embodiment of the accompanying figures, the external duct 12 is also inserted into the receiving chamber 26 from the side of the front wall 21. Depending on the embodiment, this can occur simultaneously with the insertion of the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 or at a time offset.

[0065] In the receiving chamber 26, the clamping spring 11 in the inserted state preferably engages a housing projection 261, on which the clamping spring rests with its spring back 14. The housing projection 261 can extend in a pin-like manner from the rear wall 22 of the housing 2 in the direction of the front wall 21. This housing projection can extend in the direction of the arrangement or perpendicular to the arrangement. Figure 1a The drawing plane of FIG. 2 is so long that the housing projection extends approximately up to the plane of the front wall 21 .

[0066] The housing projection 261 can be configured to be rounded upwards so that the round spring back 14 rests reliably on the housing projection. The housing projection can also be surrounded by the connection area 131 between the support leg 13 and the latching leg 182 on the side facing away from the spring back.

[0067] Thus, the housing projection 261 can extend from the section where the spring back 14 rests against it further into the receiving chamber 26 from the spring back 14 to the latching spring 18. The housing projection 261 can be dimensioned so that, when the clamping spring 11 is in the installed state, it can be located between the support leg 13 and the clamping leg 15. Optionally, the housing projection can also form a deflection movement limiting device that limits the deflection path of the clamping leg 15 when the clamping spring 11 is opened and locked. The housing projection 261 can also be divided into two or more sections, between which a slot or the like can be formed (not shown here). The receiving chamber 26 can be formed in sections as a V-shaped gap by the housing projection 261.

[0068] One or more channels (here two channels) are also formed in the housing 2. One channel is designed as a conductor insertion channel 27. This channel extends from the narrow side of the housing 2, here the upper narrow side 23, into the housing as far as the contact area, so that the conductor end can be guided from the narrow side 23 into the contact area between the clamping spring 11 and the busbar 12 (see, for example, Figure 1c The conductor insertion channel 27 can also be designed to be open toward the front wall 21 in one or more subregions. For example, the conductor insertion channel 27 can be designed to be open toward the front wall 21 in a first section starting from the upper narrow side 23 and closed in another section. The conductor insertion channel 27 is designed to be sufficiently closed relative to the front wall 21 that even multi-strand conductors can be guided easily into the region of the contact area. The conductor insertion channel 27 extends parallel or substantially parallel to the conductor insertion direction X.

[0069] To make contact with the conductor end, the clamping leg 15 is latched onto the latching spring 18, for example, already during assembly or subsequently, with the clamping spring 11 being tensioned. If the pressure exerted on the clamping leg 15 is now released by releasing the latching state with the conductor (as described above), the clamping leg can relax until the conductor end is pressed against the busbar 12 and makes contact therewith.

[0070] The opening and tensioning of the clamping legs 15 are preferably carried out by means of an actuating element, which can be a separate tool, such as a screwdriver, which can be designed as an element integrated into the housing 2. Here, it consists of a pressing element 16 (which is made of plastic, for example) which is movably guided in the housing (see Figure 1a 、 Figure 1b and Figure 1d ), which is arranged in the actuation channel 28 ( Figure 1b The pressure piece 16 and the actuation channel 28 can optionally be constructed in an L-shaped manner (see also Figure 12a 、 Figure 12b ); the actuation channel 28 is preferably oriented parallel or substantially parallel to the conductor insertion channel 27 for actuation). The pressure piece 16 can be pressed in the X direction onto the clamping leg 12 in order to tension the clamping leg and to open the contact region toward the busbar 12 so that the conductor end can be guided into the contact region (see also in this regard). Figure 2a and Figure 2b ). Alternatively, however, the actuating part can also be designed in another way, for example as a pivot element.

[0071] In order to prevent the clamping spring 11 and possibly the latching spring 18 (especially in the latched state with the clamping legs in the tensioned state) from falling out of the receiving chamber 26 open toward the front wall 21 or especially perpendicularly to the rear wall 22 and toward the front wall 21 and / or the busbar 12 from falling out of the housing 1, Figures 1a to 12a In each of the embodiments of the present invention, a spring restraint and retention mechanism 3 is provided. A separate restraint and retention mechanism (not shown here) may be provided for the busbar 12.

[0072] For example, the spring restraint and retention mechanism 3 can be constructed in the region of the receiving chamber 26. And the spring restraint and retention mechanism can be constructed in one piece or in multiple pieces.

[0073] The spring restraining retaining device 3 is intended in particular to ensure a loss-proof property of the spring unit consisting of the preloaded clamping spring 12 and, if present, the latching spring 18 , against loss.

[0074] Basically, a recessed structure is created by the spring restraint and retaining mechanism, either made of metal, plastic, or by auxiliary means. Preferably, a retaining protrusion 3011, 3012, ... of the spring restraint and retaining mechanism 3 interacts with an edge or rim 302, for example, on the narrow side of the spring of the spring restraint and retaining mechanism 3, so that the recessed structure is created. Here, the recessed structure has such characteristics that the spring restraint and retaining mechanism 3 is directed towards the open side of the receiving chamber 26 (at Figure 1c The retaining projections 3011, 3012, ... can extend into the area of the receiving chamber. When the retaining projections 3011, 3012, ... are formed on the housing 2, they protrude noticeably from the rest of the housing 2 as projections.

[0075] The retaining protrusions 3011, 3012, ... of the spring restraint retaining mechanism 3 can be arranged on the housing 2 or on the busbar 12 or a portion separated therefrom, and interact with the edge 302 of the clamping spring 11 and / or the locking spring 18, thereby generating a recessed structure having a locking effect.

[0076] However, a kinematic reversal of this principle is also possible. For example, retaining projections 3011, 3012, ... of the spring-restricted retaining mechanism 3 of the clamping spring 11 and / or the latching spring 18 are provided and can interact with an edge or recess 302 or the like on the housing 2 or on the busbar 12 or a part separated therefrom, thereby producing a locking recess.

[0077] The retaining projections 3011, 3012, ... of the spring restraint retaining mechanism 3 can be formed integrally with the housing 2, which is particularly simple, cost-effective, and safe. However, the retaining projections of the spring restraint retaining mechanism can also be arranged separately from the housing 2 and attached to and fixed to or embedded in the housing, for example, by snapping, clamping, or gluing.

[0078] Different exemplary designs are described below.

[0079] First, describe in detail Figures 1a to 1d Embodiment and its spring restraint retaining mechanism 3.

[0080] In order to prevent the clamping spring 11 thus inserted into the receiving chamber 26 open on one side—if applicable together with the latching spring 18—from falling out of the receiving chamber 26 again, Figures 1a to 1d A two-part spring-restraining retaining device 3 is provided for securing the clamping spring 11 or the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 against possible falling out of the receiving chamber 26 .

[0081] according to Figures 1a to 1d The spring restraining retaining mechanism 3 has, on the one hand, a protrusion / retaining projection 3011 on the housing 2 and, on the other hand, an edge of a window 302 or an edge recess (not shown) or another section of the narrow side of the spring unit, which here consists of a clamping spring 11 and a locking spring 13.

[0082] Like the housing 2 , the retaining projection 3011 is preferably composed of a non-conductive or insulating plastic.

[0083] Here, the window 302 is designed as a through-opening or window 303 in the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 in the region of the connecting arch 131, according to the form of a free structure. And the retaining projection 3011 is designed as a spring projection, which is formed from the material of the housing 2 and can be connected to the housing in one piece. In this case, the retaining projection 3011 designed as a spring projection can also be designed on the housing projection 262 of the housing 2 ( Figure 1a 、 Figure 1d ), wherein the busbar is located in the gap between the housing protrusion 262 and the rest of the housing 2.

[0084] The busbar 12 can be locked in the housing 2 in a self-clamping and / or self-locking manner (not shown here, optional conceivable design). The spring projection 3011 engages in the window 303 in a spring-elastic manner and preferably engages through the window. Here, the engagement is carried out "from below", that is, against the conductor insertion direction X. The spring projection 3011 can be configured in such a way that it is inclined at one or more sides so that it has an introduction bevel, so that when the clamping spring 11 is inserted together with the locking spring 18, the spring projection is resiliently retreated from the direction of the front wall 21 until it can resiliently engage in the window 303 (see Figure 1a 、 Figure 1b 、 Figure 1c 、 Figure 1d ).

[0085] The spring assembly of the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 is preferably carried out without the busbar 12 or before the busbar 12 is inserted, because the busbar 12 blocks the pivoting range of the projections 3011, 3012, ... after insertion (in the Figure 1a In this way, the spring unit composed of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 is well locked in a locking manner to prevent it from falling out of the housing 2 in the side direction "along the arrangement and installation direction".

[0086] exist Figures 2a to 2d In the embodiment of the present invention, the spring-loaded retaining device 3 is also multi-part. On the one hand, it has a retaining projection 3012 on the busbar 12, for example in the form of a clip bent out from the busbar, and on the other hand, it has a free structure 303 on the clamping spring 11 and / or the latching spring 13, in particular in the form of a through-hole or an edge recess.

[0087] and Figures 1a to 1d Similarly, the window 303 is again designed as a through-opening in the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 approximately in the region of the connecting arch 131. The retaining projection 3012 also engages in the free structures 3011, 3012, ... "from below", i.e., against the conductor insertion direction X (see Figure 2a 、 Figure 2b 、 Figure 2c 、 Figure 2d ).

[0088] It is preferred here that Figures 2a to 2d In the exemplary embodiment, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is mounted together with the busbar 12. The busbar 12 can be locked in the housing 2 in a self-clamping or self-latching manner (not shown here), and the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 can be easily locked by the spring-retaining device 3 with the elements 3012, 302 / 303 to prevent it from falling out of the housing 2 in the lateral direction.

[0089] The design can be such that the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 is rotated in such a way that it can be introduced into the receiving chamber 26 in order to be inserted into the housing 2, and then the spring unit is rotated, turned or further turned in such a way that the retaining protrusion 3012 forming the latch is turned into the window 303 and engages with it.

[0090] In this way, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is also well and structurally secured against any possibility of falling out of the housing 2 in the lateral direction.

[0091] exist Figures 3a to 3d In the embodiment of the invention, a projection 3012 is formed on the actuating element. This projection 3013 can be formed integrally with the actuating element, which is designed as a pressure element 16. Thus, the projection can extend the actuating element (here the pressure element 16, which is preferably made of plastic) so that it covers or overlaps the clamping spring 11 and / or the latching spring 18 toward the front wall 21 or toward the open side of the receiving chamber 26 and is perpendicular to the rear wall 22 (at Figure 3cIt is locked in the Y direction) to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber 26.

[0092] In accordance with Figures 3a to 3d During assembly of the embodiment, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is first assembled, and only then is the push piece 16 inserted into the actuating channel 28 until the projection 3012 locks the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 via the push piece 16 locked in the actuating channel 28 in the direction Y, thereby preventing it from falling out of the housing 2. The actuating piece is preferably made of plastic.

[0093] Figures 4a to 4d The examples in Figures 2a to 2d Designed similarly, the busbar 12 here also protects the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 from possibly falling out of the receiving chamber. To this end, the busbar 12 again has a latch as a retaining projection 3014, which is formed here at the free end of the support leg 121. This retaining projection covers the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 on the open side of the receiving chamber 26 facing away from the rear wall 22 and also secures it in a simple manner in the region of the lateral edge 302 formed here to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber 26. The lateral edges 302 of the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 form the retaining means of the spring-restricting retaining mechanism 3, and the retaining projection 301" forms another retaining means of the spring-restricting retaining mechanism 3.

[0094] exist Figures 5a to 5g In the embodiment of FIG. 3 , at the front wall 21 , the retaining protrusion 3015 extends from the front wall 21 into the region of the receiving chamber 26 .

[0095] This retaining projection 3015 secures the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 at the edge 302 of the actuating leg 183 pointing toward the front wall, preventing it from possibly falling out of the receiving chamber 26. This edge 302 can also be arranged in the region of an edge recess of the actuating leg 182.

[0096] For assembly, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 must be rotated into a position in which it can be inserted into the receiving chamber past the retaining projection 3015. The spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is then rotated in the receiving chamber so that the actuating leg 183 on the latching spring 18 acts on the retaining projection 3015, which in turn locks the entire spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 in the Y direction to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber 26 ( Figures 5e to 5g). This rotation can advantageously take place—since no additional work steps are required—during the assembly of the pressure piece.

[0097] exist Figures 6a to 6g In the exemplary embodiment, a retaining projection 3016 of the housing 302 extends into the window 303 of the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18, which is again located approximately in the region of the connection between the support leg and the latching leg 182. The retaining projection 3016 in turn secures the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 simply and reliably at one edge of the window 303, preventing it from possibly falling out of the receiving chamber 26.

[0098] For assembly, here too, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 must be rotated into a position in which it can be inserted past the retaining projection 3016 into the receiving chamber 26. The spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is then rotated in the receiving chamber 26 such that the previously described engagement of the retaining projection 3016 into the window 303 is achieved. This rotation can advantageously take place during assembly of the pressure piece, since no additional work steps are required.

[0099] exist Figures 7e to 7h In an embodiment, one or here more (two) convex and concave structures extend at the front wall 21, and the convex and concave structures - starting from the housing protrusion 261 for abutting the clamping spring 11 to the area of the receiving chamber 26 - thus form at least one or here two retaining protrusions 3017, 3017a, so that the unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 can be locked to prevent it from falling out.

[0100] The retaining projection 3017 secures the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 at the edge 302 of these elements pointing toward the front wall 21 , preventing them from possibly falling out of the receiving chamber 26 .

[0101] For assembly, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 must be placed in the receiving chamber 26 ( Figures 7a to 7d ), and only then is the relief structure formed by a cold stamp or heated stamp (if possible with the aid of ultrasound or other methods) at the material excess of the housing projection 261 for the bearing spring.

[0102] exist Figures 8e to 8hIn the exemplary embodiment, an additional element forming a retaining projection 3018 extends on the front wall 21 from the housing wall of the housing 2 into the region of the receiving chamber 26 in such a way that the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is secured against possible falling out of the receiving chamber 26. The additional element with the retaining projection 3018 secures the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 at the edge 302 of these elements pointing toward the front wall 21 against possible falling out of the receiving chamber 26.

[0103] For assembly, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 must be inserted into the receiving chamber 26 ( Figures 8a to 8d ), and only then is the additional element with the retaining projection 3018 fixed to the housing 2, for example by gluing and / or by force-fitting, form-fitting and / or material-fitting.

[0104] exist Figures 9e to 9h In the embodiment, the additional element forming the retaining projection 3019 also extends from the narrow side wall of the housing 2 into the window 303 of the support leg 13, so that the unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the locking spring 18 is locked to prevent it from falling out.

[0105] For assembly, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 must be inserted into the receiving chamber 26 ( Figures 9a to 9d ), and only then is the additional element (which can be connected integrally to the rest of the housing 2 via a movable section (here a film hinge 3019 ′)) brought into position at the housing 2 so that the additional element passes through the window 303 of the support leg 13.

[0106] exist Figures 10a to 10d In the embodiment, the outer swing of the spring unit 30110 (the buckle hooks the edge 306 of the housing 2 from the back) serves as a retaining protrusion for locking to prevent it from falling out of the housing 302.

[0107] Figures 11e to 11h Examples and Figures 9e to 9h The movable additional element with the movable section and the retaining projection 3019 extends from the front wall of the housing 2 or, in this case, from the rear wall 22 of the housing so as to reach the window 303 of the support leg 13, so that the unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 is locked to prevent it from falling out.

[0108] For assembly, the spring unit consisting of the clamping spring 11 and the latching spring 18 must be inserted into the receiving chamber 26 ( Figures 11a to 11d), and only then is the additional element (which can be connected integrally to the rest of the housing 2 via a movable section, such as a film hinge 3019') brought into position on the housing 2 in a flip-over manner so that its retaining projection 3019 overlaps the support leg 13.

[0109] Other variations of the retaining projection arrangement, not shown here, are also conceivable.

[0110] Reference Signs List

[0111] 1Connection device

[0112] 11 Clamping spring

[0113] 12 busbars

[0114] 121 support legs

[0115] 122 contact legs

[0116] 123 connection pin

[0117] 13 Support Leg

[0118] 131 connecting arc portion

[0119] 14 spring back

[0120] 15. Tighten your legs

[0121] 151 blank space

[0122] 16 press pieces

[0123] 18 lock spring

[0124] 181 strip section

[0125] 182 card lock leg

[0126] 183 manipulator legs

[0127] 1831 Control Surface

[0128] 2 shell

[0129] 21 Anterior wall

[0130] 22 posterior wall

[0131] 23, 24 narrow side

[0132] 25Fixed devices

[0133] 26 receiving chamber

[0134] 261 housing protrusion

[0135] 27 conductor introduction channel

[0136] 28 control channels

[0137] 3 Holding mechanism

[0138] 3011, 3012, ..., 3017, 3017a, ... protrusions

[0139] 3019 movable section

[0140] 302 Free Structure

[0141] 30110 buckle

Claims

1. A connection device for connecting the ends of conductors, a. The connecting device comprises a housing (2) having a rear wall (22) and a front wall (21), and a busbar (12) arranged in the housing (2); and b. The connection device comprises a V-shaped clamping spring (11) arranged in the housing (2) and acting as a compression spring when the conductor ends are in contact, the clamping spring having a support leg (13) supported on a support, a pivotable clamping leg (15) and a spring back (14) connecting the two legs (13, 15); c. The clamping leg moves into a locking position (15), in which the clamping leg is pre-tensioned and releasably locked; d. The clamping leg (15) is designed to move into the contact position after the locking position is released; e. A conductor introduction channel (27) is formed in the housing (1), through which the conductor end to be connected can be guided into the contact-conducting area between the busbar (12) and the free end of the clamping spring (15); and f. The housing (2) has a receiving chamber (26) open toward the front wall (21) of the housing (1) for inserting and receiving the clamping spring (11), wherein a housing protrusion (261) is formed in the receiving chamber and the clamping spring (11) at least partially overlaps the housing protrusion; It is characterized in that g. The clamping spring (11) is locked at least in the locked position by a spring-restricted holding mechanism (3), preferably perpendicular to the rear wall (22), to prevent it from possibly falling out of the receiving chamber (26).

2. The connecting device according to claim 1, characterized in that The clamping leg (13) can be releasably latched in the latching position directly on a corresponding counter-latching means of the latching spring (18) using latching means formed on the clamping leg.

3. The connection device according to claim 2, characterized in that The clamping leg (13) can be releasably latched in the latching position on a corresponding counter-latching means by means of a latching means which is formed on another element than the clamping leg.

4. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The clamping spring (11) and the locking spring (19) are designed as a fixedly connected, preferably integral, spring unit, and the spring unit is secured at least in the locked position by means of the spring restraining retaining means (3) against possible falling out of the receiving chamber (26).

5. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The spring restraint retaining mechanism has at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...), which interacts with at least one edge (302) to form a recessed structure, which locks at least the clamping spring (11) or possibly the entire spring unit - preferably perpendicular to the rear wall (22) - to prevent it from falling out of the receiving chamber (26).

6. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a. The at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is configured at the housing (2), and the rim is a rim at the spring unit; or b. The at least one holding protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) of the spring restraint holding mechanism is configured at the spring unit, and the rim is a rim of the housing.

7. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a. The at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is configured at the busbar (12) or at the operating member, and the edge is the edge at the spring unit; or b. The at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) of the spring restraint retaining mechanism is constructed on the spring unit, and the edge is the edge of the busbar (12) or the operating member.

8. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The rim is formed in the region of the edge recess or the window.

9. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) of the housing (2) is a retaining protrusion integrally connected to the housing, or the at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) of the housing (2) is a retaining protrusion attached to the housing (2).

10. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) integrally connected to the housing is integrally connected to the housing via at least one movable section, in particular at least one film hinge strip, and the retaining protrusion (3011, 3012, ...) can be transferred from a release position to a fixed position, in which the retaining protrusion locks the edge of the spring unit to prevent it from falling out.

11. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one retaining projection (3011, 3012, . . . ) of the housing (2) is formed from the housing material by a reshaping process.

12. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one retaining projection (3011, 3012, . . . ) of the housing (2) that is attached to the housing (2) is fixed to the housing in an adhesive, form-locking, force-locking and / or material-locking manner.

13. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one retaining projection (3011, 3012, ...) of the housing (2), the busbar (12), or the operating element partially covers the edge of the spring unit at the narrow side of the spring unit facing away from the rear wall (22), or the at least one retaining projection of the housing, the busbar, or the operating element engages in an edge recess or window of the spring unit, where the at least one retaining projection locks the spring unit at the edge.

14. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The retaining protrusion forming the spring restraining retaining mechanism (263) is constructed parallel to the front wall (21) and aligned with the front wall, so that the supporting leg (13) or the clamping leg (15) can be placed from the front wall to the back of the wall section during assembly, which locks the supporting leg or the clamping leg in a form-locking manner toward the side of the front wall (21) to prevent it from falling out.

15. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The retaining projections (3011, . . . ) are integrally formed onto the housing protrusion (261) in the assembly opening (26).

16. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The retaining projections (3011, . . .) are designed as latching hooks integrally formed on the housing, behind which the spring unit can be latched during assembly.

17. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The retaining projection of the spring restraining retaining means (263) integrated into the housing (2) is formed before the clamping spring is inserted into the housing (13), in particular by a prototyping manufacturing method, in particular injection molding.

18. Connecting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The holding projection of the spring-restricting holding mechanism (263) integrated into the housing (2) is formed after the clamping spring has been introduced into the housing (13), in particular by plastic deformation with or without the introduction of heat.

19. An electrical device, in particular a clamping terminal block or a plug connector housing that can be mounted in an array, comprising one or more connecting devices according to any one of the preceding claims.

Images