Wiring terminal

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection terminal (1) having an insulating material housing (2), a busbar (3), a clamping spring (4) and an actuating element (5), the clamping spring (4) having a bearing leg (6), a spring bow (7) and a clamping leg (8), the clamping leg (8) forming, with the busbar (3), a clamping point (9) for an electrical conductor (10) that can be introduced into the connection terminal (1), wherein the clamping leg (8) can be displaced between an open position (O) and a closed position (S) in order to open and close the clamping point (9), wherein the connection terminal (1) is configured to automatically displace the clamping leg (8) into the closed position (S) when the electrical conductor (10) is introduced into the connection terminal (1), and wherein the actuating element (5) is configured to displace the clamping leg (8) into the open position (O).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal block having an insulating housing, a busbar, a clamping spring, and an actuating element, wherein the clamping spring has a support leg, a spring bow, and a clamping leg, wherein the clamping leg and the busbar form a clamping portion for an electrical wire that can be introduced into the terminal block, wherein the clamping leg is movable between an open position and a closed position to open and close the clamping portion, wherein the terminal block is configured to automatically move the clamping leg to the closed position when an electrical wire is introduced into the terminal block, and wherein the actuating element is configured to move the clamping leg to the open position. Background Technology

[0002] Such terminal blocks are known in practice. This relates to a terminal block that automatically engages a wire to be clamped when the wire is introduced into the terminal block. Upon introduction of the wire, the clamping legs, which are held in the open position by the clamping spring, automatically disengage, thereby clamping the wire. An actuating element of the terminal block is used to return the clamping legs to the open position to open the clamping area, for example, to release the clamped wire.

[0003] Regarding the actuating element, it is desirable that the actuating element be designed to adequately transmit force to the clamping legs of the clamping spring and be easily operated with low force consumption. The narrow structural space relationship in the small-construction terminal block may further enhance the technical challenges of meeting these conflicting requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Against this backdrop, the present invention aims to provide an improved terminal block with an operating mechanism that is simple to operate and functions reliably.

[0005] The objective is achieved by means of the terminal blocks according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments are disclosed in the specification and drawings.

[0006] According to the features of the present invention, a terminal block is provided, the terminal block having an insulating material housing, a busbar, a clamping spring, and an operating element, wherein the clamping spring has a support leg, a spring bow, and a clamping leg, wherein the clamping leg and the busbar form a clamping portion for an electrical wire that can be introduced into the terminal block, wherein the clamping leg is movable between an open position and a closed position to open and close the clamping portion, wherein the terminal block is configured to automatically move the clamping leg to the closed position when an electrical wire is introduced into the terminal block, and wherein the operating element is configured to move the clamping leg to the open position, wherein the operating element is pivotally supported in the insulating material housing and configured to move the clamping leg to the open position by pivoting movement of the operating element, and wherein the operating element has a support section on a first side for supporting itself at the insulating material housing and a swivel support and an operating section for abutting against the clamping leg of the clamping spring on a second side opposite to the first side.

[0007] In other words, a terminal block is proposed that features automatic wire connection and a pivotable actuating element that returns the clamping legs to the open position. This actuating element, through a compact arrangement of a rotating support and an actuating surface on one side, and opposing support of the actuating element within an insulating housing, enables efficient and forceful movement of the clamping legs with high operational comfort and low structural space requirements. Furthermore, as detailed below in conjunction with advantageous embodiments, a relatively robust actuating element can be obtained by means of the proposed actuating element with its first and second sides spaced apart from each other, improving the robustness of the actuating element and resulting in a durable terminal block. Particularly in the case of a terminal block with automatic wire connection, where a spring force automatically moves the clamping legs to their closed position, a high force can be temporarily applied to the actuating section of the actuating element abutting the clamping legs, allowing the improved robustness of the actuating element to play a particularly advantageous role in terminal blocks with automatic clamping leg movement. Furthermore, the relatively robustly designed actuating element allows for easy operation and reliable force transmission. The lever action is associated with the pivotable movement of the actuating element, which allows the clamping leg to be returned to the open position with minimal force consumption. Here, the operating force acting on the actuating element can be converted into a restoring force acting on the clamping leg through pivoting movement and the actuating section.

[0008] The terminal block's insulating housing, for example made of plastic, houses the terminal block's busbar and clamping spring and protects them from environmental influences and contact. According to embodiments, as also described, the insulating housing or actuating element may have a wire introduction channel for introducing electrical wires into the insulating housing. The wire introduction channel may form an insertion channel, for example, at least partially cylindrical or funnel-shaped, leading to the clamping portion of the terminal block. The electrical wire can be inserted into the insertion channel into the insulating housing in a defined introduction direction and can be removed from the insulating housing in the opposite direction of introduction. The busbar, also known as a contact or current bar, may be a largely rigid electrical wire, formed, for example, by a metal strip, which may be partially bent to form a clamping portion according to advantageous design practices or may have a flanged hole created by stretching.

[0009] The clamping spring of the terminal block may involve a predominantly flat member having a length and width extension significantly greater than its depth or thickness extension, said member being particularly made of an elastic material. The clamping spring has a support leg for supporting the clamping spring against an insulating housing, a clamping leg for clamping the wire to the busbar, and a spring bow between the support leg and the clamping leg for deflecting the clamping spring, such that the support leg can extend at least partially opposite the clamping leg. When moved to its open position, the clamping leg may be movable toward the support leg. The clamping leg may form a clamping portion with the busbar for clamping the conductor to the busbar in such a way that the conductor is pressed against the busbar by the spring force of the clamping spring through the clamping leg, thereby creating a reliable electrical contact. The clamping leg can be moved between an open position and a closed position to open and close the clamping portion. In the open position of the clamping legs, the clamping legs are spaced apart from the bus and, if necessary, the introduced electrical wires, such that the clamping portion is released and the wires can be introduced into the terminals and positioned in or removed from the area of ​​the clamping portion. In the closed position of the clamping legs, the clamping legs move onto the bus and the introduced electrical wires and apply pressure toward the bus and onto the electrical wires, such that there is electrical contact between the wires and the bus. When moving from the open position to the closed position, the actuating element can be automatically pivoted together by the force transmitted from the clamping legs to the actuating element.

[0010] To achieve automated wire connection, the terminal block is configured to automatically move the clamping legs to a closed position when the electrical wire is introduced into the insulating housing. For this purpose, the terminal block particularly has a triggering mechanism that can be actuated by the introduced wire and, via a release mechanism, the clamping legs can be released from the open position and automatically moved to the closed position by spring force. In its open position, the clamping legs can be held in a ready state, for example by a suitable retaining structure at the busbar or at an extended support leg of the clamping spring, as further described in detail below according to a corresponding embodiment.

[0011] The actuating element of the terminal block can be a structural element that is at least partially inserted into an insulating housing and pivotally supported within the insulating housing. The actuating element is configured to interact with the clamping legs of a clamping spring via the actuating section and to move the clamping legs to an open position. The actuating element is user-operable via an actuating section of the actuating element accessible from the periphery of the terminal block. The actuating section can be configured, depending on the chosen embodiment, for manual, tool-free operation and / or for tool-related operation, wherein a screwdriver, for example, can be a suitable actuating tool.

[0012] The insulating housing may have an operating channel into which the operating element enters. The operating element may be supported, at least via a support section, on a first side of the operating element at a support surface of the insulating housing, such as at the support surface of the operating channel, during pivoting. The first side of the operating element or the support section may have a flat or arched surface, depending on the embodiment. A rotary support member disposed on a second side of the operating element opposite to the first side enables pivoting about a rotation axis extending through the operating element or the insulating housing. Here, the operating element is supported via the rotary support member at the insulating housing or the spring bow of the clamping spring, depending on the embodiment, and may slide on the opposite surface of the insulating housing or the spring bow by means of the surface of the rotary support member. The operating section present on the second side of the operating element is configured to move the clamping leg of the clamping spring into its open position and for this purpose at least partially abuts against the clamping leg, wherein the abutment surface between the operating section and the clamping leg may change, particularly increase, during the movement of the clamping leg from the closed position to the open position. Therefore, according to a feasible design, the actuating section can abut against the clamping leg in the open position by means of a larger surface area compared to the closed position, such that the actuating section abuts against the clamping leg more as the clamping leg is moved into the open position. By means of the actuating section, pressure can be applied to the clamping leg during the pivoting movement of the actuating element to displace it. The actuating section can be configured, according to a feasible design, to slide on the clamping leg during displacement, i.e., to move relative to the clamping leg. The first and second sides of the actuating element can relate to two opposing surfaces of the actuating element. The support section, actuating section, and rotary support can be integrally formed with the actuating element.

[0013] According to one embodiment, a first side of the actuating element may be at least partially spaced apart by a distance from a second side opposite to the first side, the distance corresponding at least to the width of the spring bow of the clamping spring. The spring bow width may be a measure of the maximum distance between the two spring legs describing the spring bow, or in other words, the distance between the clamping leg and the support leg at the transition region into the spring bow. The actuating element may therefore have at least partially a width corresponding to or exceeding the width of the spring bow. If the actuating element is hypothetically divided into a pivoting region with a rotating support and an actuating region with an actuating section connected to the pivoting region, the actuating element may have a width, particularly in the pivoting region, corresponding to the distance between the first and second sides, the width corresponding at least to the width of the spring bow of the clamping spring. By means of an actuating element having at least partially a width corresponding to or exceeding the width of the spring bow, a relatively robust and sturdy actuating element is obtained, characterized by easy operability and reliable force transmission to the clamping leg of the clamping spring.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the rotating support of the actuating element can be disposed between the spring bow of the clamping spring and the wire introduction side of the insulating housing. This allows for a compact arrangement with an advantageous pivot angle for the actuating element. According to one design possibility, the apex of the spring bow of the clamping spring can point towards the rotating support. The wire introduction side of the insulating housing can be, for example, a housing side of the insulating housing that can be described by a housing surface, where electrical wires can be introduced into terminals. A wire introduction opening can be provided, in particular, on the wire introduction side, which, according to embodiments, can be disposed in the insulating housing or in the actuating element. The rotating support can be disposed, for example, opposite the outer circumferential surface of the spring bow of the clamping spring, wherein, according to embodiments, there can be free space or housing material of the insulating housing between the outer circumferential surface of the spring bow and the rotating support.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the rotary support can be positioned from the apex of the spring bow in the housing region of the insulating material housing facing the clamping leg. This allows for reliable displacement of the clamping leg using a small pivot angle of the operating element. In other words, the rotary support can be positioned within the insulating material housing closer to the clamping leg than to the support leg near the clamping spring.

[0016] According to an alternative embodiment, the rotary support can be positioned from the apex of the spring bow in the housing region of the insulating material housing opposite to the clamping leg. In other words, the rotary support can be positioned closer to the support leg in the insulating material housing than the clamping leg of the clamping spring. This allows for greater leverage and thus higher force conversion via the actuating element. This can be beneficial, for example, by an embodiment further described below, in which the rotary support is spaced apart from the second side of the actuating element via a pivot arm extending from the second side of the actuating element.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the rotating support of the actuating element can be configured as a rotating pin housed in a support recess within an insulating housing. The rotating pin can be cylindrical or partially cylindrical in its basic shape, and the support recess can be, for example, a corresponding hollow space within the insulating housing. This allows for a structurally simple, yet defined, pivotally movable support for the actuating element within the insulating housing. The axis of rotation around which the actuating element can pivot can, in this case, extend through the main axis of the rotating pin.

[0018] Alternatively, for example, it can be conceivable that the rotational support of the operating element is configured as a support section of the operating element supported on a support protrusion of an insulating housing or on a spring bow of a clamping spring. This also allows for a structurally simple, yet limited, pivotable support for the operating element within the insulating housing. In this embodiment, the support section may have a concave profile, by which the operating element can slide on the support protrusion of the insulating housing or on the spring bow during pivoting, the insulating housing, for example, having a spherical or partially cylindrical convex surface. The concave profile is an inwardly arched profile. The support section may arch in particular with a radius substantially corresponding to the radius of the support protrusion of the insulating housing or the radius of the spring bow. In this embodiment, the operating element can extend about its pivoting axis through the support protrusion of the insulating housing or the adjacent area of ​​the insulating housing, or through the internal space of the clamping spring, which is surrounded by the spring bow and the support and clamping legs.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the actuating element may have a wire insertion channel through which an electrical wire can be introduced into the terminal block. Therefore, an actuating element with an integrated wire introduction portion is provided, thereby achieving a particularly compact terminal block, since a separate wire introduction channel is not required within the insulating housing. The electrical wire can be guided to the clamping portion of the terminal block via the wire insertion channel. When an actuation causes a trigger mechanism to move the clamping leg to the closed position, the actuating element can pivot together with the electrical wire introduced into the wire insertion channel. Similarly, when the clamping leg is manually moved to the open position by means of the actuating element, the actuating element can pivot together with the electrical wire introduced into the wire insertion channel. In this embodiment, the actuating element may be configured as a hollow body, allowing the electrical wire to be guided through it.

[0020] Alternatively, for example, it can be conceivable that the insulating housing has a wire introduction channel for introducing electrical wires into the terminal block and an operating channel extending substantially parallel to the wire introduction channel for accommodating an operating element. Thus, the functions of wire introduction and operating the operating element for moving the clamping leg can be structurally clearly separated from each other and do not interfere with each other. A compact embodiment of the terminal block can be achieved by the substantially parallel orientation of the wire introduction channel and the operating channel. The operating channel may at least partially have a shape matching the outer contour of the operating element. The operating element housed in the operating channel may be accessible at least via a suitable tool. The operating element may be movably disposed in the operating channel, particularly along the operating channel. The operating channel may at least partially have a cross-section at least half the size of the wire introduction channel. The operating element may be robustly designed such that it substantially completely fills the operating channel at least partially in its cross-section, i.e., its width from the first to the second side of the operating element corresponds to the channel width of the operating channel. According to one embodiment, a first side of the actuating element may be at least partially spaced apart from a second side opposite to the first side by a distance corresponding at least half the channel width of the wire introduction channel. The distance may, in particular, correspond to at least 60% or at least 70% of the channel width. In other words, the actuating element may be robustly designed such that its width is at least partially at least half the channel width of the wire introduction channel. The channel width of the wire introduction channel or actuating channel may correspond to the distance between two channel walls opposite each other and is described, for example, by means of the diameter of the wire introduction channel or actuating channel. If the wire introduction channel has a varying channel width, for example, due to a funnel-shaped section, the mentioned channel width may refer to the maximum channel width of the wire introduction channel. As described above, robust and reliable resetting of the clamping legs of the clamping spring can be achieved by means of a relatively robust actuating element.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the actuating element can be configured as a pivoting press. This provides an actuating element that can be operated intuitively and easily. A pivoting press is understood as an actuating element that is manipulated and pivoted by pressure applied manually or through a tool. In other words, pressure generates torque, which causes the actuating element to pivot. According to one feasible design, operating the pivoting press is solely for moving the clamping leg to the open position. When the clamping leg is automatically moved to the closed position, the pivoting press can be automatically carried back to its initial position, in which it can be re-operated by pressure.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the bus may have a triggering mechanism having a retaining tab for holding the clamping leg in its open position and a releasing surface for releasing the clamping leg when it contacts the releasing surface via an introduced electrical wire. Thus, the clamping leg can be temporarily secured to the bus until the electrical wire introduced into the terminal contacts the releasing surface of the bus and thereby triggers the automatic movement of the clamping leg into a closed position. The releasing surface may be a side frame of the bus extending toward the support leg from the clamping area of ​​the bus for clamping the wire, with the retaining tab disposed at the side frame. The retaining tab may bridging to laterally retain the side edge of the clamping leg. If the introduced electrical wire contacts the side frame of the bus forming the releasing surface, the electrical wire can laterally deflect the side frame, causing the clamping leg to disengage from the retaining tab and automatically move into its closed position by the spring force of the clamping spring. By integrating the triggering mechanism into the bus, the clamping spring can be optimized in terms of its function as a clamping element for clamping electrical wires.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally to the above embodiment, the support leg of the clamping spring may have a triggering mechanism having a retaining section for holding the clamping leg in its open position and a releasing section for releasing the clamping leg when the electrical conductor encounters a releasing section. Thus, the clamping leg can be temporarily secured to the support leg in its open position until the electrical conductor introduced into the terminal triggers the automatic movement of the clamping leg into the closed position. The retaining section may have a retaining protrusion, on which the clamping leg may be temporarily secured, either at its free end or with a retaining nose additionally provided at the clamping leg, depending on the type of latch. The retaining section of the support leg may, for example, originate from a support section of the support leg, which is configured to support the support leg against an insulating housing and connected to a spring bow, particularly at an angle or bend. According to a feasible design, the retaining section may extend substantially perpendicular to the support section. The releasing section may, for example, have a releasing surface that extends substantially perpendicular to the direction of introduction of the electrical conductor into the terminal. When the lead wire comes into contact with the release surface, it can cause displacement of the release segment and, for example, stretching or displacement of the retaining segment connected to it. This can cause the retaining tab of the clamping leg to disengage from the retaining protrusion of the retaining segment, thereby activating an automatic displacement of the clamping leg into the closed position. In other words, the locking of the clamping leg at the support leg can be released, for example, by pressure loading on the release segment. The clamping spring can be designed such that a slight displacement of the flexible lead wire end of the release segment has already triggered an automatic displacement of the clamping leg into the closed position, for example, by the relatively small size of the retaining protrusion at the retaining segment. The release segment can be connected to the retaining segment of the support leg. The release segment can be connected to the free end of the clamping leg. The retaining segment and the release segment can together have two opposing bends and form a Z-shape, such that the areas of the retaining segment and the release segment with the release surface can extend substantially parallel according to a feasible design. The clamping portion of the terminal block can be positioned within the connection space of the terminal block at the entry area of ​​the wire introduction channel. The releasing portion of the clamping spring can be positioned in the area opposite the entry area, similar to a blind hole, within the connection space. By integrating the retaining portion and the releasing portion into the support leg of the clamping spring, the terminal block triggering mechanism can be implemented in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the operating element may have an operating section having a pressing surface, a tool receiving portion, and / or a handle. This facilitates operation of the operating element. The operating section may be an area of ​​the operating element accessible from around the terminals. The pressing surface, tool receiving portion, and / or handle allow for tool-related and / or manual operation of the operating element. The tool receiving portion may, for example, be a groove formed to mate with the tip of a screwdriver.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the operating section can be recessed into the insulating housing or substantially flush with the outer surface of the insulating housing at its wire inlet side, depending on whether the clamping legs are in the open or closed position. This allows for intuitive operation related to the position of the operating element, which is difficult to access in the recessed position when the clamping legs are set for automatic movement. Furthermore, the position of the clamping legs can be visually deduced from the position of the operating section in a simple manner. In the open position of the clamping legs, the operating element can be completely recessed into the insulating housing. In other words, the operating section can be recessed into the insulating housing such that its outer contour ends within the outer contour of the insulating housing. In principle, according to another embodiment, it is also conceivable that the operating section extends beyond the outer surface of the insulating housing.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the support section of the actuating element may have a convex surface. The convex surface is an outwardly arched surface. Thus, the support section can roll on a straight support surface of the insulating material housing during pivoting motion, for example, so that pivoting motion of the actuating element can be achieved in a simple manner, for example, within the actuating channel, without having to comply with narrow tolerance limits.

[0027] According to an improved design, the support surface of the support section of the insulating housing for supporting the actuating element can have a concave surface that matches the convex surface of the support section. The concave surface is an inwardly arched surface. Thus, the support surface can form a predefined curved track for the support section, on which the support section can slide surface-wise. This allows for very precise pivoting movements of the actuating element, which is particularly advantageous for terminals with automatic wire connections and trigger mechanisms that are typically designed to be more sensitive for this purpose.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the rotary support can be spaced apart from the second side of the actuating element via a pivot arm extending from the second side of the actuating element. This allows for greater leverage by means of the actuating element, thereby enabling higher force conversion. The pivot arm and the rotary support can be integrally formed with the actuating element. The pivot arm can extend from its second side between the operating section and the control section of the actuating element. The pivot arm can be at least partially guided via the spring bow of the clamping spring. The rotary support can be disposed, for example, via the spring bow, i.e., toward the outer circumferential surface of the spring bow, or in the housing region of the insulating material housing toward the support leg of the clamping spring.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the operating section of the control element can be made of a metallic material. This allows for a robust and reliable operating control element. It may be proposed that at least a portion of the operating section is metallic. The metallic material can be, for example, a substantially pure metal or a metal alloy. The metallic material can be, for example, spring steel. Spring steel is characterized by high strength, yet simultaneously possesses sufficient elasticity so that point-like force peaks can be compensated for by elastic deformation when the control element is operated. Furthermore, it is not excluded that the operating section may be made of other materials, such as plastic or ceramic materials. Metallic materials may also be present in other sections of the control element. The control element may, for example, have a metal core, which is surrounded by a covering material in the region of the operating section or support section and exposed in the operating section. Alternatively, the metal core may also be completely surrounded by a covering material, such as plastic.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the support section, operating section, and / or rotating support can be made of plastic material. This allows for a lightweight and reliably and easily operable control element, which can also be manufactured cost-effectively. According to one design possibility, the entire control element can be made of plastic material. According to another design possibility, the control element can have a core made of metal material and be plastic-coated, for example, injection-molded, at least in areas of the operating section or support section. Alternatively, for example, it can be conceivable that the control element is implemented as an assembled control element having an operating section, support section, and / or rotating support made of plastic material, and an operating section made of metal material connected thereto, particularly inseparably, for example, in a material-fitting manner.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the support surface of the support section of the insulating material housing for supporting the operating element can be formed with a stop to limit the pivoting movement of the operating element. Here, the operating element can be movable relative to the support surface, for example, pivotally movable within the operating channel of the insulating material housing. Therefore, when the operating element is properly shaped, the channel wall of the operating channel forming the support surface of the support section can limit the pivoting movement of the operating element within the operating channel. Thus, excessive deflection of the clamping legs of the operating element and correspondingly the clamping spring can be avoided during the pivoting movement of the operating element.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the insulating material housing may have a clamping spring support at which the clamping spring is suspended, wherein the clamping spring support has a stop surface for limiting the displacement of the clamping leg toward the support leg. This prevents excessive deflection of the clamping leg and ensures a long service life for the operating element and the clamping spring. Furthermore, the clamping spring can undergo improved retention within the insulating material housing through the clamping spring support. The clamping spring support may have a bend matching the radius of the spring bow to achieve optimal retention of the clamping spring at the clamping spring support.

[0033] In general, in connection with this application, unless otherwise explicitly defined, the word “one” should not be understood as a numeral, but rather as an indefinite article in the sense of “at least one”. Attached Figure Description

[0034] This invention allows for different implementations, and the following detailed description is based on embodiments with accompanying drawings. The drawings are schematic illustrations:

[0035] Figures 1a to 1b The wiring terminals according to the first embodiment are shown in the closed and open positions in the sectional side view;

[0036] Figures 1c to 1d The wiring terminals according to the first embodiment are shown in the closed and open positions in a three-dimensional sectional side view;

[0037] Figures 2a to 2b The wiring terminals according to the second embodiment are shown in the closed and open positions in the sectional side view;

[0038] Figures 2c to 2d The wiring terminals according to the second embodiment are shown in the closed and open positions in the perspective sectional side view;

[0039] Figures 3a to 3b The wiring terminals according to the third embodiment are shown in the closed and open positions in the sectional side view;

[0040] Figures 3c to 3d A separate cross-sectional side view shows the wiring terminals according to the third embodiment in closed and open positions, with electrical wires introduced; and

[0041] Figures 3e to 3f The terminal block according to the third embodiment is shown in the closed and open positions in the case of the concealed insulating material housing. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figures 1a to 1d , Figures 2a to 2d as well as Figures 3a to 3fThe wiring terminal 1 is shown according to three different implementations. For example, in... Figures 1a to 1d 2a to Figure 2d and 3a to Figure 3d As can be seen in the figures, the terminal block 1 has an insulating housing 2, which may be made of, for example, plastic material and protects the components of the terminal block 1 housed within the insulating housing 2 from environmental influences and prevents contact. Furthermore, as can be seen from the figures, the terminal block 1 includes a busbar 3, a clamping spring 4, and an actuating element 5.

[0043] For example, in 1a to Figure 1d , Figures 2a to 2d and Figures 3a to 3f As shown in the diagram, the clamping spring 4 according to three or more embodiments has a support leg 6 for supporting the clamping spring 4 and for clamping, for example, in... Figure 3d The clamping leg 8 of the wire 10 shown and the spring bow 7 for deflecting the clamping spring 4 allow the support leg 6 to be at least partially opposite the clamping leg 8. For example, according to... Figure 1d , Figure 2d and Figure 3c As can be seen, the clamping spring 4 is suspended at the clamping spring support 36, which has a stop surface 37 for limiting the movement of the clamping leg 8 toward the support leg 6. Thus, the retention of the clamping spring 4 within the insulating housing 2 and its service life can be improved by protectively deflecting the clamping leg 8. The clamping leg 8, together with the busbar 3, forms a structure for insertion into the terminal block 1, for example... Figure 3d The electrical conductor 10 shown in the figure is in Figure 1c , Figure 2c and Figure 3a The clamping part 9 is shown in the image. The clamping leg 8 can... Figure 1b , Figure 1d , Figure 2b , Figure 2d , Figure 3b , Figure 3d and Figure 3f The open position O shown in the figure Figure 1a , Figure 1c , Figure 2a , Figure 2c , Figure 3a , Figure 3c and Figure 3e The clamping part 9 is opened and closed by shifting between the closed positions S shown in the figure.

[0044] Terminal 1 is configured to automatically move the clamping leg 8 to the closed position S when the electrical wire 10 is introduced into terminal 1. For this purpose, terminal 1 has a trigger mechanism 22, for example, at bus 3 or at the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4, as described in detail below with reference to the various embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Actuating element 5 is configured to move the clamping leg 8 to the open position O. When the clamping leg 8 is moved to its open position O, the clamping leg can move toward the support leg 6. When moving from the open position O to the closed position S, the actuating element 5, which is at least partially abutting the clamping leg 8, can automatically pivot together.

[0045] The actuating element 5 is at least partially, and substantially completely, inserted into the insulating housing 2 according to a feasible design, and pivotally supported therein. The actuating element 5 constitutes a means for... Figure 1b , Figure 2b and Figure 3b The pivoting motion B shown moves the clamping leg 8 to the open position O. The actuating element 5, according to the three illustrated embodiments, is configured as a pivoting press, such that the actuating element 5 can be operated by pressure introduced from the outside. According to one feasible design, the actuating element 5, configured as a pivoting press, is configured to be operable to move the clamping leg 8 to the open position O, while the automatic movement of the clamping leg 8 to the closed position S is associated with the automatic actuation of the pivoting press. A lever action is associated with the pivotable movement of the actuating element 5, through which the clamping leg 8 can be returned to the open position O with low force consumption.

[0046] The operating element 5 has a support section 11 on its first side 5a for support on the insulating material housing 2. The support section 11 may have a flat surface, for example, according to the first embodiment, or an arched surface, for example, according to the second and third embodiments. Furthermore, as for example, according to… Figure 1a and Figure 1b as well as Figure 3a and Figure 3b As is understandable, the support surface 34 of the support section 11 of the insulating material housing for supporting the control element can form a stop for limiting the pivotal movement B of the control element 5.

[0047] On the second side 5b opposite to the first side 5a, the operating element 5 has a rotary support 12 and an operating section 13 for abutting against the clamping leg 8 of the clamping spring 4. Through the compact arrangement of the rotary support 12 and the operating section 13 on one side and the opposing support of the operating element 5 on the other side of the insulating housing 2, effective and forceful movement of the clamping leg 8 can be achieved with high operational convenience and low structural space requirements. The operating section 13 at least partially abuts against the clamping leg 8, wherein the abutting surface is, for example, according to… Figure 1a , Figure 1b Or according to Figure 3c , Figure 3d As can be seen, the clamping leg 8 can be increased during the movement to the open position O, causing the operating section 13 to increasingly abut against the clamping leg 8. During the movement of the clamping leg 8 to the open position O, pressure is applied to the clamping leg 8 via the operating section 13. The support section 11, the operating section 13, and the swivel support 12 can be integrally formed with the operating element 5, as shown in the figures, which can be made of, for example, plastic material. It is also conceivable, in principle, that the operating section 13 may be made of metal according to a feasible design. The support section 11, the swivel support 12, and / or the operating section 30, further described below, may be made of plastic material.

[0048] For example in Figure 1a , Figure 2a and Figure 3d As shown, the rotation support 12 of the operating element 5 is disposed between the spring bow 7 of the clamping spring 4 and the wire introduction side 14 of the insulating material housing 14, so that a compact arrangement with an advantageous pivot angle of the operating element 5 can be achieved. The wire introduction side 14 is described here as the housing side of the insulating material housing 2, where the electrical wire 10 can be introduced into the terminal block 1.

[0049] The following is based on Figures 1a to 1d The first embodiment of terminal block 1 is described in detail. For example, in... Figure 1c As can be seen, the first side 5a and the second side 5b of the actuating element 5 are spaced apart by a distance A, which is greater than the spring bow width F of the spring bow 7 of the clamping spring 4. This results in a relatively robust and sturdy actuating element 5, which can also absorb high forces when the clamping leg 8 is automatically moved into the closed position. The spring bow width F describes the measurement used to space the two spring legs of the clamping spring 4 apart from each other, especially at their transition into the spring bow 7.

[0050] For example from Figure 1cIt can be seen that the rotating support 12 is positioned in the housing region of the insulating material housing 2 facing the clamping leg 8, starting from the apex 7a of the spring bow 7. Therefore, reliable movement of the clamping leg 8 can be achieved by means of a small pivot angle of the operating element 5. For example, in Figure 1c As can be seen, the rotating support 12 is positioned closer to the clamping leg 8 within the insulating housing 2 than the support leg 6, which is closer to the clamping spring. This external... Figures 1a to 1d As shown, the rotating support 12 of the control element 5 is configured as a rotating pin 16 with a basic cylindrical shape, housed in the support recess 15 of the insulating material housing 2. The support recess 15 is a corresponding hollow space in the insulating material housing 2 for accommodating the rotating pin 16. Thus, a simple structure and a limited pivotable support for the control element 5 can be achieved.

[0051] As in Figure 1c and Figure 1d As can be seen, the operating element 5 has a wire insertion channel 19 through which the electrical wire 10 can be introduced into the terminal block 1. This results in an operating element 5 with an integrated wire introduction portion, leading to a compact terminal block 1. The operating element 5 is also pivotable when the electrical wire 10 is inserted into and clamped into the wire insertion channel 19. For this purpose, the electrical wire 10 can be accommodated in the wire insertion channel 19 with sufficient clearance due to its sufficiently large net width. Figures 1a to 1d Furthermore, it is shown that the control element 5 has an operating section 30 with a handle 32, so as to provide a control element 5 that is easy to operate.

[0052] As from Figure 1c and Figure 1d It is understood that the busbar 3 has a trigger mechanism 22, which has a retaining tab 23 for holding the clamping leg 8 in its open position O and a releasing surface 24 for releasing the clamping leg 8 when it contacts the releasing surface 24 by the introduced electrical wire 10. Thus, the clamping leg 8 can be temporarily secured to the retaining tab 23 until the introduced electrical wire 10 activates the releasing surface 24 of the trigger mechanism 22. The releasing surface 24 can be, as shown, a side frame of the busbar 3 extending from the clamping portion 9 toward the support leg 6, which can be laterally displaced by the introduced electrical wire 10, such that the retaining tab 23 located at the releasing surface 24 disengages from the clamping leg 8 upon activation and spring-forcefully displaces the clamping leg 8 into its closed position S. The trigger mechanism 22 is configured as a frame independently constructed relative to the busbar 3, and the trigger mechanism is fixed to the busbar.

[0053] The following is based on Figures 2a to 2d The second embodiment of terminal block 1 is described in detail. For example, from... Figure 2cIt can be seen that the rotating support member 12 is installed in the housing region of the insulating material housing 2 away from the clamping leg 8, starting from the apex 7a of the spring bow 7. Correspondingly, the rotating support member 12 is installed in the insulating material housing 2 closer to the support leg 6 than to the clamping leg 8 which is closer to the clamping spring 4. As a result, an improved lever effect and force conversion can be achieved.

[0054] As in Figures 2a to 2d As shown, the rotary support 12 of the operating element 5 is configured as a rotary pin 16 with a basic cylindrical shape, housed in the support recess 15 of the insulating material housing 2. The support recess 15 is a corresponding hollow space in the insulating material housing 2 for accommodating the rotary pin 16. This allows for a simple structure and a limited pivotable support for the operating element 5. Furthermore, the rotary support 12 is spaced apart from the second side 5b of the operating element 5 via a pivot arm 35 extending from the second side 5b, thereby achieving an improved lever action. The pivot arm 35 and the rotary support 12 are integrally formed with the operating element 5 according to the illustrated embodiment. The pivot arm 35 is guided above the spring bow 7 of the clamping spring 4, and the rotary support 12 faces the outer circumferential surface of the spring bow 7.

[0055] Such an external Figures 2a to 2d As shown, the insulating housing 2 has a wire introduction channel 20 for introducing the electrical wire 10 into the terminal 1 and an operating channel 21 extending substantially parallel to the wire introduction channel 20 for accommodating the operating element 5. Thus, the wire introduction and clamping leg 8 are structurally separated from each other by the operating function of the operating element 5, resulting in relatively low structural space requirements due to their parallel orientation. The operating element 5 is movably disposed in the operating channel 21 and can be moved along the operating channel 21 therein. Figures 2a to 2d As can be seen, the control channel 21 at least partially has a shape that matches the outer contour of the control element 5. As shown, the support section 11 of the control element 5 has a convex surface. Correspondingly, the support surface 34 of the insulating material housing 2 for supporting the support section 11 of the control element 5 has a concave surface that matches the convex surface of the support section 11. This forms a defined curved track for the support section 11, at which the support section 11 can slide surface-wise, and the very precise pivoting movement B of the control element 5 is associated with it.

[0056] As from Figure 2c and 2dIt is understood that the busbar 3 has a trigger mechanism 22, which has a retaining tab 23 for holding the clamping leg 8 in its open position O and a releasing surface 24 for releasing the clamping leg 8 when it contacts the releasing surface 24 by the introduced electrical wire 10. Thus, the clamping leg 8 can be temporarily secured to the retaining tab 23 until the introduced electrical wire 10 activates the releasing surface 24 of the trigger mechanism 22. The releasing surface 24 can be, as shown, a side frame of the busbar 3 extending from the clamping portion 9 toward the support leg 6, which can be laterally displaced by the introduced electrical wire 10, such that the retaining tab 23 provided at the releasing surface 24 disengages from the clamping leg 8 when activated and the clamping leg 8 is spring-forced to move into its closed position S.

[0057] exist Figures 2a to 2d Furthermore, it is shown that the operating element 5 has an operating section 30 with a tool receiving portion 31 implemented as a slot, thereby providing an easily operable operating element 5. Figure 2c and Figure 2d Furthermore, it is shown that the operating section 30 is recessed into the insulating material housing 2 according to the open position O or closed position S of the clamping leg 8, as this is in Figure 2d As shown for the open position O, or substantially flush with the outside 33 of the insulating housing 2 at its wire inlet side 14, as this is in Figure 2c As shown in the closed position S. Thus, intuitive position-related operation of the manipulation element 5 can be achieved, and the position of the clamping leg 8 can be visually detectable and deduced from the position of the manipulation element 5.

[0058] The following is based on Figures 3a to 3f The third embodiment of terminal block 1 is described in detail. For example, in... Figure 3a As can be seen, the first side 5a and the second side 5b of the actuating element 5 are spaced apart by a distance A, which is greater than the width F of the spring bow 7 of the clamping spring 4. Furthermore, the distance A is greater than half the width K of the wire introduction channel 20. This results in a relatively robust and sturdy actuating element 5, which can also absorb high forces when the clamping leg 8 is automatically moved to the closed position. For example, from... Figure 3a As can be seen, the rotary support 12 is disposed in the housing region of the insulating material housing 2 away from the clamping leg 8, starting from the apex 7a of the spring bow 7. Correspondingly, the rotary support 12 is disposed in the insulating material housing 2 closer to the support leg 6 than to the clamping leg 8 which is closer to the clamping spring 4. As a result, improved leverage and force conversion can be achieved.

[0059] As in Figures 3a to 3dAs shown, the rotation support 12 of the operating element 5 is configured as a support section 18 on the support protrusion 17 of the insulating material housing 2, supporting the operating element 5. This provides a simple and limited support for the pivotal movement of the operating element 5 within the insulating material housing 2. The support protrusion 17 can be configured as follows: Figures 3a to 3d As shown in the diagram, the support section 18 has a convex surface, while the support section 18 has a concave surface that is shaped to match it. In principle, according to an alternative embodiment, it is also conceivable that the support section 18 of the operating element 5 is supported on the spring bow 7 of the clamping spring 4, wherein the profile of the support section 18 corresponds to that of the spring bow 7.

[0060] Such an external Figure 3a and Figure 3b As can be seen, the insulating housing 2 has a wire introduction channel 20 for introducing the electrical wire 10 into the terminal 1 and an operating channel 21 extending substantially parallel to the wire introduction channel 20 for accommodating the operating element 5. Thus, the wire introduction and clamping leg 8 are structurally separated by the operating function of the operating element 5, resulting in relatively low structural space requirements due to their parallel orientation. The operating channel 21 may at least partially have a cross-section at least half the size of the wire introduction channel 20 and be at least partially completely filled by the operating element 5 across its width, resulting in a relatively robust operating element 5. For example, in… Figure 3a and Figure 3b As shown, the support segment 11 of the control element 5 has a convex surface that interacts with the relatively straight support surface 34 of the control channel 21. Thus, the support segment 11 can roll on the support surface 34 during the pivoting motion B, allowing the pivoting motion B of the control element 5 to be achieved in a simple manner within the control channel 21 without having to adhere to narrow tolerance limits.

[0061] exist Figures 3a to 3f Furthermore, as shown, the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4 has a triggering mechanism 22, which has a holding section 25 for holding the clamping leg 8 in its open position O and a releasing section 26 for releasing the clamping leg 8 when the conductor 10 comes into contact with the releasing section 26. Thus, the clamping leg 8 can be temporarily secured to the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4 in its open position O until the conductor 10 introduced into the terminal 1 triggers the automatic movement of the clamping leg 8 to the closed position S. The holding section 25 has a holding protrusion 28 on which the clamping leg 8, as shown, can be secured with its free end. The holding section 25, as shown, begins from the abutting section 27 of the support leg 6 in the case of bending, the supporting section being configured to support the support leg 6 within the insulating housing 2. The releasing section 26 has a releasing surface 24 that extends into the terminal 1 perpendicular to the direction of introduction of the conductor 10. Figure 3d As shown, when the wire 10 comes into contact with the release surface 24, it can cause the release segment 26 to shift, which in turn causes the retaining segment 25 to shift and, consequently, releases the clamping leg 8 from engagement with the retaining protrusion 28. As illustrated, the retaining segment 25 and the release segment 26 can have two opposing bends and are described by a Z-shape, wherein the areas of the retaining segment 25 and the release segment 26 having the release surface 24 can extend substantially parallel to each other. By integrating the retaining segment 25 and the release segment 26 into the support leg 6 of the clamping spring 4, the trigger mechanism 22 of the terminal block 1 for automatically shifting the clamping leg 8 to the closed position S can be implemented in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

[0062] exist Figures 3d to 3f Furthermore, it is shown that the operating element 5 has an operating section 30 with a tool receiving portion 31 implemented as a slot, thereby providing an easily operable operating element 5. Figure 3c and Figure 3d Furthermore, it can be seen that the operating section 30 is recessed into the insulating material housing 2 according to the open position O or closed position S of the clamping leg 8, as this is in Figure 3d As shown for the open position O, or substantially flush with the outside 33 of the insulating housing 2 at its wire inlet side 14, as this is in Figure 3c As shown in the closed position S. Thus, intuitive position-related operation of the manipulation element 5 can be achieved, and the position of the clamping leg 8 can be visually detectable and deduced from the position of the manipulation element 5.

[0063] Based on the above and exemplary embodiments, in Figures 1a to 1d , Figures 2a to 2d and Figures 3a to 3f The terminal block 1 described herein can provide a terminal block 1 with automatic wire connection, which is used to move the clamping leg 8 to its open position O. The operating element 5 is designed for optimized force transmission during convenient operation.

[0064] List of reference numerals

[0065] 1. Terminal block

[0066] 2. Insulating material housing

[0067] 3 busbars

[0068] 4. Clamping spring

[0069] 5. Control elements

[0070] 5a The first side of the control element

[0071] The second side of the 5b control element

[0072] 6 Supporting Legs

[0073] 7. Spring Bow

[0074] 7a Vertex

[0075] 8. Clasp your legs together

[0076] 9. Clamping parts

[0077] 10. Conductor

[0078] 11 Support Section

[0079] 12 Rotary support components

[0080] 13. Control Section

[0081] 14. Wire entry side

[0082] 15. Support gap

[0083] 16 Rotary Pins

[0084] 17 Supporting protrusion

[0085] 18 Support Section

[0086] 19. Wire insertion channel

[0087] 20. Wire introduction channel

[0088] 21. Manipulation Channel

[0089] 22 Triggering Mechanism

[0090] 23. Maintain splicing

[0091] 24 Loose surface

[0092] 25. Maintain section

[0093] 26 Loose sections

[0094] 27. Abutting section

[0095] 28. Maintain the protrusion.

[0096] 30 Operating Section

[0097] 31 Tool Reception Section

[0098] 32 handles

[0099] 33 Outside

[0100] 34 Support surface

[0101] 35 Pivot Arm

[0102] 36 Clamping Spring Support

[0103] 37 Stop surface

[0104] A Spacing

[0105] B Pivot movement

[0106] F Spring Bow Width

[0107] K-channel width wire introduced into the channel

[0108] O Open location

[0109] S Closed position

Claims

1. A terminal block (1) having an insulating housing (2), a busbar (3), a clamping spring (4), and an operating element (5), wherein... - The clamping spring (4) has a supporting leg (6), a spring bow (7), and a clamping leg (8). - The clamping leg (8) and the busbar (3) form a clamping portion (9) for the electrical wire that can be introduced into the terminal (1). - The clamping leg (8) is movable between an open position (O) and a closed position (S) to open and close the clamping part (9). - The terminal block (1) is configured to automatically move the clamping leg (8) into the closed position (S) when an electrical wire is introduced into the terminal block (1) and - The actuating element (5) is configured to move the clamping leg (8) into the open position (O). Its features are, The operating element (5) is pivotally supported in the insulating material housing (2) by means of a rotating support (12) and is configured to move the clamping leg (8) to the open position (O) by a pivoting movement (B) of the operating element (5), wherein the operating element (5) has a support section (11) on a first side (5a) for supporting at the insulating material housing (2) and the rotating support (12) and an operating section (13) for abutting at the clamping leg (8) on a second side (5b) opposite to the first side (5a).

2. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuating element (5) is supported by the rotating support (12) at the insulating material housing (2) or at the clamping spring (4).

3. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, In the closed position (S), the operating element (5) presses the support section (11) against the insulating material housing (2) by the force of the clamping spring (4).

4. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first side (5a) of the actuating element (5) is at least partially spaced apart from the second side (5b) opposite to the first side (5a) by a distance (A), the distance being at least corresponding to the spring bow width (F) of the spring bow (7).

5. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The rotating support (12) is disposed between the spring bow (7) and the wire introduction side (14) of the insulating material housing (2).

6. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The rotating support (12) is positioned from the apex (7a) of the spring bow (7) in the housing region of the insulating material housing (2) facing the clamping leg (8).

7. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The rotating support (12) is positioned from the apex (7a) of the spring bow (7) in the housing region of the insulating material housing (2) opposite to the clamping leg (8).

8. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The rotating support (12) is configured as a rotating pin (16) housed in the support recess (15) of the insulating material housing (2).

9. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The rotating support (12) is configured as a support section (18) of the operating element (5) supported on the support protrusion (17) of the insulating material housing (2) or supported on the spring bow (7).

10. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The operating element (5) has a wire insertion channel (19) through which an electrical wire can be introduced into the terminal block (1).

11. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The insulating housing (2) has a wire introduction channel (20) for introducing electrical wires into the terminal (1) and an operating channel (21) extending substantially parallel to the wire introduction channel (20) for accommodating the operating element (5).

12. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first side (5a) of the manipulation element (5) is at least partially spaced apart from the second side (5b) opposite to the first side (5a) by a spacing (A), the spacing being at least half the channel width (K) of the wire introduction channel (20).

13. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The operating element (5) is configured as a pivoting pressing element.

14. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The busbar (3) has a triggering mechanism (22) having a retaining tab (23) for holding the clamping leg (8) in its open position (O) and a release surface (24) for releasing the clamping leg (8) when it is contacted by an introduced electrical wire.

15. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support leg (6) has a triggering mechanism (22) having a holding section (25) for holding the clamping leg (8) in its open position (O) and a releasing section (26) for releasing the clamping leg (8) when the electrical wire comes into contact with the releasing section (26).

16. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The operating element (5) has an operating section (30) having a pressing surface, a tool receiving portion (31) and / or a handle (32).

17. The terminal block (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The operating section (30) is recessed into the insulating material housing (2) or substantially flush with the outside (33) of the insulating material housing (2) at its wire inlet side (14) depending on whether the clamping leg (8) is in the open position (O) or closed position (S).

18. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support section (11) has a convex surface.

19. The terminal block (1) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The support surface (34) of the insulating material housing (2) for supporting the support section (11) has a concave surface that is formed to match the convex surface of the support section (11).

20. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The rotating support (12) is spaced apart from the second side (5b) of the operating element (5) via a pivot arm (35) extending from the second side (5b) of the operating element (5).

21. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The operating section (13) of the operating element (5) is made of metal.

22. The terminal block (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The support section (11), the operating section (30), and / or the rotating support (12) are made of plastic material.

23. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support surface (34) of the insulating material housing (2) for supporting the support section (11) forms a stop for limiting the pivotal movement (B) of the operating element (5).

24. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The insulating material housing (2) has a clamping spring support (36), the clamping spring (4) is held at the clamping spring support, wherein the clamping spring support (36) has a stop surface (37) for limiting the displacement of the clamping leg (8) toward the support leg (6).

Images