terminal block

Abstract

The invention relates to a terminal having a busbar, a clamping spring and a handling element, wherein the clamping spring has clamping legs which form a clamping point with the busbar for an electrical conductor which can be introduced into the terminal, wherein the clamping spring has an action element for the transmission of a handling force from a handling section of the handling element onto the clamping legs by a coupling of the force action of the handling section with the action element, and wherein the handling element is configured for displacing the clamping legs via the action element between an open position and a closed position in order to open and close the clamping point.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal block having a busbar, a clamping spring, and an actuating element, wherein the clamping spring has clamping legs that form with the busbar a clamping portion for a wire that can be introduced into the terminal block, wherein the clamping spring has an actuating element for transmitting an actuating force from an actuating portion of the actuating element to the clamping legs through a coupling of the actuating portion and the force action of the actuating element, and wherein the actuating element is configured to displace the clamping legs between an open position and a closed position via the actuating element to open and close the clamping portion. Background Technology

[0002] Such terminal blocks are known in practice. These terminal blocks enable easy wire connection at the busbar to establish an electrical connection, and are characterized by reliable contact and comfortable operation due to the spring force of the clamping spring. The clamping portion can be easily opened and closed by means of an actuating element to allow the wire to be inserted and clamped.

[0003] The desired feature of such terminal blocks is a robust operating mechanism that enables repeated connection of electrical wires throughout the long service life of the terminal block. An easy-to-operate operating mechanism that functions reliably even with frequent use improves the user experience when using the terminal blocks. Furthermore, the increased durability of the terminal blocks is also ecologically beneficial. In addition, efforts have been made to design a robust operating mechanism that maintains the compact structure of the terminal blocks. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an improved terminal block.

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

[0006] This invention proposes a support element at the actuating section, the support element forming a contact surface for the actuating element, which couples the actuating section to the clamping leg force to transmit the actuating force. This support element provides wear protection in the contact area between the actuating element and the actuating section of the actuating element, enabling repeated actuation over a long service life of the terminal while minimizing wear on the components in the contact area. Even during frequent repetition over long periods, wear protection maintains easy and reliable actuation for opening and closing the clamping portion. The support element can be specifically designed for a firm interaction with the actuating element and optimized independently of other components of the terminal. Furthermore, the support element, through a suitable design, promotes uniform movement of the actuating element along the actuating section during actuation and reduces the unit area pressure of the actuating element at the actuating section through optimized pressure distribution. The support element is constructed separately from the actuating element, thereby allowing for a high degree of design freedom, for example, in terms of the material of the support element, but also in terms of its geometry. The support element can be connected to the actuating element in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner.

[0007] The terminal block may have an insulating housing that houses and protects the busbar and clamping spring from environmental influences and contact. The insulating housing may have a wire entry channel. This channel may form a guide to the clamping portion of the terminal block, for example, a cylindrical or funnel-shaped insertion channel at least segmented, in which a wire can be inserted into the insulating housing in the wire entry direction and removed from the insulating housing in the opposite direction.

[0008] The electrical wires that can be introduced into the terminal block are, in particular, flexible wires, which are inserted forward into the terminal block with the end section stripped of its insulation.

[0009] The busbar can be a substantially rigid conductor and, for example, has a connecting beam with a generally flat clamping surface, in which the conductor can be clamped against the clamping surface by means of the spring force of the clamping spring in the connected state.

[0010] The clamping spring of the terminal block can be a generally planar component that is elastically pliable. The clamping spring can, for example, be a bent plate made of a spring plate. The clamping spring can have support legs for supporting the clamping spring at adjacent structures, such as busbars and / or insulating housings. The support legs and clamping legs can be connected to each other by spring bows. The clamping legs can form a clamping portion with the busbar to clamp the conductor to the busbar in such a way that the conductor is clamped to the busbar by means of the spring force of the clamping spring, for example, through a clamping edge at the free end of the clamping leg or through a clamping edge protruding from the clamping leg, thereby establishing a reliable electrical contact. The clamping legs can be displaced 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 edges are spaced apart from the busbar and, if necessary, the conductors introduced, such that the clamping portion is released and the conductors can be introduced into the terminal block and positioned in or removed from the area of ​​the clamping portion. In the closed position of the clamping legs, the clamping edge shifts onto the busbar and the introduced electrical conductor and applies clamping force toward the busbar and onto the electrical conductor, so that there is electrical contact between the conductor and the busbar.

[0011] The actuating element can shift between a ready position and an actuated position to move the clamping leg between a closed position and an open position via an actuating section that interacts with the actuating element. The ready position of the actuating element can be associated with the closed position of the clamping leg, while the actuated position can be associated with the open position of the clamping leg. For the interaction of the actuating section and the actuating element, the actuating section and the actuating element can indirectly contact each other mechanically via a support element. The actuating section can act as a drive when the actuating element is shifted into the actuated position and into the ready position, and moves the clamping leg by force transmission via the actuating element, for example, a pulling force. For this purpose, the actuating element is forcefully coupled between the actuating section and the clamping leg, and is supported on the support element for this purpose.

[0012] The actuating element can act as a tensioning element on the clamping spring in such a way that the clamping leg can be tensioned against the spring force by shifting to its open position and relaxed by shifting to its closed position. To shift to the open position, the actuating element can act as a pulling element, in which an effective tensile force, i.e., tensile stress in the actuating element, between the support of the actuating element and the coupling point of the actuating element acts on the clamping leg.

[0013] The insulating material housing may include a receiving portion that matches the operating element, the receiving portion enabling the operating element to be moved between a ready position and an operating position. The receiving portion may also be configured with a mating support profile for supporting the operating element within the insulating material housing.

[0014] The actuating element can be integrally formed with the clamping spring and has an actuating edge.

[0015] For this purpose, the actuating element can be bent out from the clamping leg as an operating leg. The actuating element can have an operating edge that is supported on a support element, i.e., an operating support surface.

[0016] The actuating edge can be directly incorporated into the clamping leg and form an actuating element. However, it is also conceivable that the actuating edge supported at the support element exists in a separate actuating structure connected to the clamping leg, i.e., in a force transmission element independent of the clamping spring and the actuating element, which forms the actuating element.

[0017] The control edge is characterized by a contact area with the control section that is at least approximately linear. The control edge can be formed, for example, by the outer contour of the clamping leg or by the connected control structure. Due to the approximately linear contact area, the control edge may be more susceptible to wear effects at the control edge and / or the control section compared to a planar contact area, making effective wear protection related to load reduction in the materials of the control section and the control edge.

[0018] The actuating element can be configured as a pivotable lever. A pivotable lever provides a comfortable and efficient lever-operated actuating element. The pivotable lever can be an actuating element with a primary rotational actuation path. The lever can pivot about a rotation axis that extends transversely to the wire introduction direction outside the wire receiving space of the terminal block, for example, on the side of the clamping spring's support leg away from the clamping leg. A support pin can be formed at the rotation axis on at least one side of the lever, the support pin being received in a support receiving portion of the insulating material housing. The lever can pivot from a ready position away from the spring bow of the clamping spring to an operating position. The lever can be pivotally supported on the insulating material housing. The aforementioned receiving portion in the insulating material housing can have an arcuate profile, along which the lever can slide during pivoting. During the pivoting movement of the lever, depending on the specific design of the lever and support element, the actuating edge of the clamping leg can shift along the support element or can shift together with the support element along the actuating section.

[0019] The support element can be movably disposed at the operating section. This facilitates uniform movement of the actuating element, particularly the actuating edge, along the operating section when the operating element shifts. This, for example, avoids the stick-slip effect, i.e., the jerky slippage of the actuating element along the operating section or the support element. The support element can move along the operating section together with the actuating element. In other words, the actuating element can be stably positioned at the support element and relative movement can be achieved between the support element and the operating section. Increased frictional wear between the actuating element and the support element is avoided by stably fixing the actuating element, such as the actuating edge, at the support element. The support element can be designed such that there is sliding friction with a low coefficient of friction between the support element and the operating section. The support element can move along the operating section in two opposite directions to compensate for the displacement of the operating element from the ready position to the operating position and from the operating position back to the ready position.

[0020] The operating section may have a guide profile for accommodating a guide element of the support element. This allows for precise pre-setting of the movement of the support element along the operating section. The guide profile may extend laterally toward the support surface of the operating section towards the support element, thereby extending spaced apart from the contact surface of the support element to achieve spatial separation of the support and guiding functions. The guide profile may, for example, be curved. The guide profile may be configured as a guide groove, and the guide element may be configured as a guide protrusion engaging in the guide groove, or vice versa. The guide element may be configured to engage in a form-fitting manner with the guide profile. Two guide profiles extending parallel to each other may be provided at the operating section to achieve uniform guidance of the support element.

[0021] The support element may have a locking element for fastening the support element to the operating section. This allows for a simple and reliable fixation of the support element to the operating section. The locking element may, in particular, be configured as a locking hook and, for example, have an L-shaped profile. The operating section may have a locking edge that can be engaged from the rear by the locking element. The locking edge may, for example, be configured as a locking opening or a locking protrusion at the operating section. The locking edge can be formed using the aforementioned guide profile. Depending on the embodiment, the locking element may be configured to movably or immovably fasten the support element to the operating section.

[0022] The guide element of the support element can be formed by a locking element. Thus, the locking element can be used for the movable fastening and guidance of the support element at the operating section. The locking edge of the operating section can be correspondingly configured as a guide profile, and the movement trajectory of the support element is preset by the guide profile extending along the operating section. The locking element can be matched to the guide profile of the operating section, for example, shaped and sized such that there is a clearance fit between the locking element and the guide profile, allowing the locking element to move along the guide profile.

[0023] The support element may have at least two guide elements, which are staggered from each other on opposite sides of the support element and / or along the extension direction of the support element's guide profile. This improves the guidance of the support element along the operating section and promotes continuous and uniform movement of the actuating element and the support element. The staggered arrangement of the guide elements on opposite sides of the support element enables uniform guidance, preventing skewing of the support element as it moves along the guide profile. For example, the staggered arrangement of the guide elements better accommodates curved guide profiles, allowing the guide elements to function separately in different curved sections. Accordingly, according to an embodiment, the two guide elements located on opposite sides of the support element may, for example, be exactly opposite each other, i.e., spaced apart from each other across the width of the support element, or be positioned movable relative to each other along the length of the support element.

[0024] The support element can form a curved contact surface, the curvature of which corresponds to the curvature of the operating section at its support surface facing the support element. Through the curved contact surface, the actuating element, such as the operating edge of the actuating element, can be reliably engaged from the rear by the operating element and smoothly displaced to allow the clamping leg to move into the open position. Through the coordinated curvature of the operating section and the support element, the support element can be easily and reliably fastened to the operating section and slide uniformly across the operating section in movable embodiments of the support element. The support surface of the operating section can be concave. The abutment surface of the support element facing the support surface can be convex, thus abutting against the concave support surface. The contact surface of the support element facing away from the abutment surface, for contacting the actuating element, can also be concave, thus forming, for example, a half-shell for accommodating the actuating element. The curved contact surface can be implemented at least segmentally in arcuate shapes with defined curvature radii, wherein the curvature radii can substantially coincide with the curvature radii of the arcuate segments of the operating section.

[0025] The operating section may have two opposing edges that conform to the curvature of the operating section. In this way, a curved support element, inserted into the concave operating section, is held within the operating section in accordance with the shape of the edges. Here, the end edge of the support element abuts against the edge of the operating section, the edge of which limits the curvature of the operating section.

[0026] The operating section may have an end stop on its side wall, wherein the curvature of the operating section is limited by the end stop. This allows the support element to be pushed in from one side of the operating element until it is positioned against the end stop on the opposite side, with its side edge abutting against the end stop.

[0027] The actuating element and the support element can be made of different materials. Thus, the support element and the actuating element can be optimized independently of each other in terms of their respective functions. The support element can, for example, be made of a material having a lower coefficient of friction relative to the actuating element compared to the actuating element. The support element can be made of a softer material compared to the actuating element so that, in movable embodiments of the support element, the actuating element can be reliably pressed against the support element. The material of the support element can have higher elasticity compared to the actuating element, thereby allowing the support element to be easily applied, for example, snapped onto the actuating element. The material of the support element can be selected with regard to the desired mobility of the support element relative to the actuating section in terms of advantageous sliding characteristics. Support elements made of different materials can be form-fitted and / or force-fittedly connected to or attached to the actuating element. Material-fitted connections are also conceivable, for example, by bonding the support element to the actuating section.

[0028] The support element can be made of polyamide, polyketone, polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyoxymethylene. Thermoplastics with excellent sliding properties are involved here, allowing the actuating element to slide on the support element with low friction and low wear, or allowing the actuating element to slide together with the support element at the operating section. The support element can be manufactured, for example, by injection molding. The aforementioned materials have high suitability for injection molding. Furthermore, support elements made of such materials can have high elasticity, thus allowing them to be easily applied to the operating element.

[0029] The clamping spring may have an operating leg extending from the clamping leg, the operating leg forming an actuating element integrally molded with the clamping spring. The operating leg may have an operating edge at its free end opposite the clamping leg, the operating edge being supported at a support element. Thus, the operating edge can be spaced apart from the clamping section of the clamping leg, resulting in advantageous spatial separation between the operating area and the clamping area, and ensuring that wire introduction is not obstructed by the operating edge. This one-piece configuration of the actuating element and clamping spring allows for a simple and compact construction of the terminal block.

[0030] The operating leg may extend from the clamping leg, for example, between the spring bow and the area of ​​the clamping leg extending into the conductor receiving space of the insulating housing. The root of the operating leg may be closer to the spring bow than the clamping edge of the clamping leg. The operating leg may be positioned away from the clamping leg. When the operating edge of the operating leg shifts, the clamping leg is lifted away from the bus or from the clamped conductor via the connection between the operating leg and the clamping leg, and the clamping portion opens.

[0031] Alternatively to a one-piece configuration, the actuating element can be molded as a force transmitter independent of the operating element and the clamping spring, the force transmitter being disposed between the support element and the clamping leg. The force transmitter can, for example, be molded as a plastic injection molded part, which surrounds the clamping leg on one side and is supported on the support element on the opposite side.

[0032] The actuating element, i.e., the operating leg formed in one piece with the clamping leg, or the actuating element alone, can be configured as an actuating bow-shaped member having two side tabs connected to each other by transverse tabs, wherein the actuating edge supported on the support element is formed at the transverse tabs. Thus, the actuating element can be manufactured economically and positioned at the support element in a simple manner, such that the actuating bow-shaped member surrounds the support element. For example, the clamping leg can be stamped out from the actuating bow-shaped member, and the tabs can be bent out from the clamping leg, such that the free space defined by the side tabs and transverse tabs is formed by stamping the clamping leg. However, the side tabs and at least one transverse tab connecting the side tabs can also be formed as separate components, wherein the clamping leg is shaped-fitted with the side tabs and / or the lower transverse tabs or support member, i.e., supported. The side tabs and at least one transverse tab form a frame structure of the actuating bow-shaped member through which terminal components can pass, thereby enabling a compact component arrangement in the terminal.

[0033] The clamping spring may have a contact leg that passes through the actuating bow-shaped member. This allows for a compact arrangement of the clamping spring within the terminal block. The contact leg can be guided through between the side tabs, with the actuating section of the actuating element positioned on the side of the contact leg opposite to the clamping leg, i.e., passing through the actuating bow-shaped member between the contact leg and the lateral tab. The lateral tab of the actuating bow-shaped member can be supported at a support element, forming an actuating edge at the inner contour of the bounded free space.

[0034] The operating element can have an operating section adjacent to the operating segment, thereby providing a compact structural form for the operating element. The operating segment may, for example, have a tool channel extending through the operating element adjacent to the operating segment and configured to receive an operating tool, such as a screwdriver. Operating force can be introduced into the operating element by means of the operating segment, for example, to pivot the operating element. The operating element can also be implemented to be tool-free operated, and for this purpose, for example, has a handle that can be manually gripped and moved. In this case, the handle may be formed outside an insulating housing and connected to the operating segment via a connecting segment.

[0035] The terminal block can have an insulating housing with a receiving portion for an operating element, wherein the operating element has a guide plate for guiding the operating element along the inner wall of the housing. The guide plate can be located on a side opposite to the operating portion. The guide plate can guide the operating element at least partially along the pivoting path within the housing. The guide plate can be spring-elastic in particular. With this spring-elastic configuration, the guide plate can, at least partially, abut against the inner wall of the housing by means of a supporting force and friction during pivoting movement. Therefore, the guide plate can, for example, act as a check damper for moving the operating element from the operating position to the ready position.

[0036] The inner wall of the housing may have a stop surface that forms a stop for guiding the connecting plate. This allows for the limitation of the pivoting movement of the operating element in a simple and reliable manner.

[0037] The actuating element may have a wall adjacent to the actuating section, wherein a retaining protrusion extends from the wall, the retaining protrusion being configured to cooperate with the retaining edge of the insulating material housing in a shape-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. In this way, the actuating element can be held in the actuating position, for example, by a stop portion of the retaining protrusion, such that the clamping portion of the clamping spring remains open, and rotation back to the ready position is prevented.

[0038] The terminal block can be configured to connect electrical wires with a cross-sectional area of ​​16 mm² or larger. With this wire cross-section, the clamping legs need to be displaced extensively to the open position to provide sufficient space for the wire to be inserted. Here, a large force can be introduced into the clamping legs and their operating edges by means of an actuating element, and enhanced friction can occur in the contact area between the actuating section and the operating edges. This allows wear protection achieved by means of a support element to significantly improve the service life of the terminal block. The terminal block can, for example, be configured as a high-current terminal.

[0039] In general, within the scope of this application, unless otherwise expressly defined, the word “a” should not be understood as a numeral, but rather as an indefinite article in the sense of “at least one”. Attached Figure Description

[0040] This invention allows for different implementations, and these will be described in detail below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0041] Figure 1 A terminal block with a closed clamping portion is shown in perspective view according to one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 2 Shown in side view according to Figure 1 Details of the wiring terminals;

[0043] Figure 3 Shown in a three-dimensional view according to Figure 1 Terminal blocks with an open clamping section;

[0044] Figure 4 Shown in side view according to Figure 3 Details of the wiring terminals;

[0045] Figure 5 A perspective view shows the control lever of the terminal block together with the support element mounted thereon;

[0046] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Shown in a three-dimensional view according to Figure 5 Supporting elements;

[0047] Figure 8 A terminal block with a closed clamping portion is shown in a perspective view according to a variant embodiment;

[0048] Figure 9 Shown in a three-dimensional view Figure 8 The control lever of the terminal block is accompanied by a separate support element. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Figures 1 to 7 The terminal block 1 and selected components of the terminal block 1 are shown in different states and views according to one embodiment. The terminal block 1 can be easily operated by clamping the connector with spring force, and a reliable connection of electrical wires can be achieved.

[0050] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates terminal 1 with a closed clamping portion.

[0051] Figure 2 A detailed view of terminal 1 in the area of ​​operating element 4 of terminal 1 is shown.

[0052] exist Figure 1 As can be seen, terminal block 1 includes busbar 2, clamping spring 3, insulating housing 20 with wire introduction channel 6, and operating element 4. Clamping spring 3 has support leg 18 and clamping leg 5, which are connected to each other via spring bow 21. Support leg 18 supports clamping spring 3 at the cantilever or section of busbar 2. Clamping leg 5 is formed with busbar 2 in… Figure 1 The clamping portion, which is blocked by busbar 2, is used for insertion into terminal block 1. Figure 3 The electrical wire 7 is shown in the figure.

[0053] The manipulation element 4 is implemented to surround the Figure 2 The control lever 4a, which pivots on the rotation axis 23 shown in the figure, and has a rotation axis 23 pivoting on the control lever 4a .... Figure 2 The control section 8 is visible in the image. The control lever 4a can be housed in a receiving portion 22 designed for this purpose within the insulating housing 20. Figure 1 The preparation position B1 shown in the figure is the same as that in the figure. Figure 3 The clamping spring 3 is shifted between the operating positions B2 shown. The clamping spring 3 has an integrally formed actuating element W, which is implemented as an actuating bow-shaped member, extending from the clamping leg 5 as an actuating leg 15. The actuating leg has two side tabs 17 connected by a transverse tab 16. The side tabs 17 guide past the support leg 18, allowing the support leg 18 to pass through the free space formed between the side tabs 17 and the transverse tabs 16. When actuating the actuating element 4, the clamping leg 5 of the clamping spring 3 can be moved by means of the actuating leg 15. Figure 3 The open position O shown in the figure is the same as that in the figure. Figure 1 The closed positions S shown are shifted to open and close the clamping portion. For this purpose, an operating edge 9 is formed at the transverse tab 16, which works together with the operating section 8 and forms a carrying profile for the operating leg 15 and the clamping leg 5 connected to the operating leg when the operating element 4 pivots.

[0054] The operating element 4 has a guide plate 25 on the side opposite to the operating section 8. This guide plate guides the operating element 4 at least partially along the pivoting path within the receiving portion 22 of the insulating material housing 20. Furthermore, in the operating position B2, the free end 26 of the guide plate 25 abuts against the stop surface 28 of the inner wall portion 27 of the housing 22, thus forming a stop for the operating element 4. Due to the spring-elastic configuration of the guide plate 25, during pivoting movement, the guide plate can also abut against the inner wall portion of the housing 22 at least partially by means of a supporting force and friction. Therefore, the guide plate 25 can also, if necessary, act as a check damper for the movement of the operating element 4 from the operating position B2 to the ready position B1.

[0055] Furthermore, the actuating element 4 has at least one support pin 30 at at least one side 29, which is located at the rotation axis 23 and is housed in a support receiving portion (not shown in detail) of the insulating material housing 20.

[0056] exist Figure 2 As can be seen, a support element 10 is provided at the operating section 8, which forms a contact surface 11 for the actuating element W, such as for the operating edge 9. The support element 10 provides wear protection in the contact area between the operating section 8 and the actuating element W, and in this way helps to minimize wear at the terminal 1. The support element 10 is constructed separately from the operating element 4 and is connected to the operating section 8 in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner. Through this separate embodiment, the operating element 4 and the support element 10 can be designed and optimized independently for their respective functions.

[0057] In addition, from Figure 2 China, especially in combination Figure 4 It can be seen that the support element 10 is movably disposed at the operating section 8. Therefore, when the operating element 4 is operated, the support element 10 and the operating edge 9 supported on the support element 10 can move together at the operating section 8, thereby achieving uniform movement of the operating edge 9 relative to the operating section 8. The stable positioning of the operating edge 9 at the support element 10 minimizes friction that leads to accelerated wear at the operating edge 9.

[0058] The operating section 8 has guide contours 12, specifically at its two opposing lateral surfaces, each following the curvature of the support surface of the operating section 8, to accommodate guide elements 13 of the support element 10. The guide contours 12 allow for precise pre-setting of the movement trajectory of the support element 10 at the operating section 8. The guide element 13 is formed by a locking element 14 of the support element 10, thereby enabling movable fastening and guidance of the support element 10 at the operating section 8. The guide contours 12 form locking edges 14 for locking the locking element 14 at the operating section 8. The guide element 13 forms guide protrusions that engage in the groove-shaped guide contours 12.

[0059] In addition, Figure 1 As can be seen, the control element 4 has an operating section 19 adjacent to the control section 8, which, according to the illustrated embodiment, is configured as a tool channel 31. For example, in Figure 1 As illustrated in the diagram, an actuating tool 24, such as a screwdriver, can be inserted into the tool channel 31 to displace the actuating element 4 between a ready position B1 and an actuating position B2. This displacement, as shown, can be achieved by pivoting. Figure 1 As can be seen from the diagram, a compact implementation scheme for the terminal block 1 can be achieved by means of the design scheme shown in the operating section 19.

[0060] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a terminal 1 with an open clamping part and an introduced electrical wire 7. Figure 4 A detailed view of the terminal 1 in the area of ​​the operating element 4 is shown. Here it can be seen that the operating element 4 is pivoted to the operating position B2. By actuating the operating edge 9, the clamping leg 5 is moved to the open position O via the operating leg 15, allowing the shown wire 7 to be introduced into the terminal 1. It can then be clamped to the busbar 2 via the clamping edge of the clamping leg 5 by the subsequent retraction of the operating element 4 to the ready position B1 and the corresponding reset of the clamping leg 5 to the closed position S. Here, the low-wear interaction between the operating edge 9 and the operating section 8 is achieved through the support element 10.

[0061] from Figure 5A separate perspective view of the joystick 4 together with the support element 10 disposed thereon can be obtained. It can be seen that the support element 10 has a contact surface 11 for the operating edge 9; there is a curvature of the contact surface 11 that matches the curvature of the operating section 8; and the guide profile 12 at the operating section 8 forms a shape for movably accommodating the support element 10. It is evident how the concave curved surfaces of the operating section 8 and the support element 10 are used to form a semi-shell for reliably accommodating the operating edge 9. Furthermore, it can be seen that the operating section 19 of the joystick 4 is directly adjacent to the operating section 8.

[0062] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A separate view of the support element 10 is shown in supplementary illustration. It can be seen that the support element 10 has two guide elements 13 disposed on opposite sides of the support element 10. Furthermore, the guide elements 13 are staggered from each other in the extending direction E of the support element 10, wherein the extending direction E is predetermined by the longitudinal extension of the guide profile 12 at the operating section 8. By means of the guide elements 13 staggered on opposite sides of the support element 10, the support element 10 can be uniformly supported and guided in the guide profile 12, taking into account the curvature of the operating section 8. The guide elements 13 are formed by locking elements 14 configured as locking hooks and have an L-shaped profile.

[0063] Figure 8 A perspective view shows a terminal block 1 with a closed clamping portion according to a modified embodiment. The construction of the insulating housing 2 and the clamping spring 3 is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, so that reference can be made to the description above.

[0064] The configuration of the lever 4 and the individual support element 10 is slightly modified. The support element 10 is a curved plate within a correspondingly concave curved operating section 8, which forms a receiving portion for the support element 10 by means of a cavity shaped in accordance with the curved support element 10. The operating edge 9 of the operating section 19 of the clamping spring 3 is supported on the curved surface of the support element 10. It is evident that a semi-shell for reliably receiving the operating edge 9 is formed by means of the concave curved surfaces of the operating section 8 and the support element 10. Furthermore, it can be seen that the operating section 19 of the lever 4 is directly adjacent to the operating section 8.

[0065] A retaining protrusion 32 exists between the inlet of the tool channel 31 and the operating section 8. The insulating housing 2 has a retaining edge 33, wherein the retaining protrusion 32 is positioned between the retaining protrusion 32 and the operating section 8 in the ready position B1. When the operating element 4 pivots, the retaining protrusion 32 moves toward the retaining edge until the retaining protrusion, in the operating position B2, works in conjunction with the retaining edge 33 to resist the pivoting of the operating element 4 from the operating position B2 back to the ready position B1 by form-fitting or force-fitting, for example by a stop.

[0066] Figure 9 Shown in a three-dimensional view Figure 8 The control lever 4 of the terminal block 1 is together with the separate support element 10.

[0067] As can be seen, the lever 4a has a tool channel 31 in its operating section 19, which leads to the outside and is configured to accommodate a tool. The tool channel 31 extends toward the support pin 30. From the area of ​​the entrance of the tool channel 31, a guide plate 25 extends on one side and a wall of the operating section extends on the opposite side, a retaining protrusion 32 protrudes at the operating section, and the wall transitions into the concave operating section 8. The operating section 8 has an end stop 34, for example in the form of an edge tab, on the side wall of the lever 4a, which protrudes from the concave curved surface of the operating section 8. The curved surface of the operating section 8 transitions into the wall where the retaining protrusion 32 is provided by means of a protruding first edge 36a. The curved surface of the operating section 8 transitions into the free end section 35 of the lever 4a on the side opposite to the first edge 36a by means of another edge 36b, i.e., by means of a protrusion.

[0068] exist Figure 8 As can be seen, the free end segment 35 is located next to the transverse tab 16 and forms a shape fit with the transverse tab 16 when the lever 4a pivots.

[0069] The support element 10 is configured as a simple curved plate, and provides a contact surface 11 by means of its convex curved surface. This curved support element 10 is pushed into a uniformly curved, concave operating section 8 up to the end stop 34, and is form-fitted between the edges 36a, 36b and the end stop 34. Alternatively, the support element 10 may be force-fitted into the operating section 9 by an interference fit.

[0070] The actuating element 4 and the support element 10 can be manufactured from different materials for individualized material optimization. The support element 10 can be made of polyamide or polyoxymethylene, in particular, to provide advantageous sliding characteristics. The terminal 1 can be configured to connect electrical wires 7 with a wire cross-section of 16 mm² or greater. For these terminals, significant wear reduction can be achieved by means of the support element 10 due to the high operating force when actuating the actuating element 4.

[0071] The aforementioned terminal block 1 is characterized by a robust and easy-to-operate operating mechanism, an extended service life, and a compact structural form.

[0072] List of reference numerals

[0073] 1 terminal block

[0074] 2 busbars

[0075] 3 clamping springs

[0076] 4 control elements

[0077] 4a joystick

[0078] 5. Clasp your legs together

[0079] 6-wire introduction channel

[0080] 7 electrical wires

[0081] 8 control sections

[0082] 9 Manipulating the edges

[0083] 10 Support Elements

[0084] 11 Contact Surface

[0085] 12 Guided Outlines

[0086] 13 guiding elements

[0087] 14 locking components

[0088] 15 manipulating legs

[0089] 16 horizontal splices

[0090] 17 side connectors

[0091] 18 supporting legs

[0092] 19 Operating Section

[0093] 20 Insulating Material Housing

[0094] 21 Spring Bow

[0095] 22 containment sections

[0096] 23 Rotation axis

[0097] 24 Operating Tools

[0098] 25 guide plate

[0099] 26. Free end of the guide plate

[0100] 27. Inner wall of the shell

[0101] 28 stop surfaces

[0102] 29. Side of the control element

[0103] 30 support pins

[0104] 31 Tool Channels

[0105] 32. Maintain the protrusion.

[0106] 33 Keep the edges

[0107] 34 end stop

[0108] 35 Free end sections

[0109] 36a First edge

[0110] 36b Another edge

[0111] B1 Preparation Position

[0112] B2 control position

[0113] E Extension Direction

[0114] O Open location

[0115] S closed position

[0116] W-acting element

Claims

1. A terminal block (1) having a busbar (2), a clamping spring (3), and an operating element (4), wherein - The clamping spring (3) has clamping legs (5) that form a clamping portion with the busbar (2) for clamping electrical wires that can be introduced into the terminal block (1). - The clamping spring (3) has an actuating element (W), wherein the actuating force is transmitted from the actuating section (8) to the clamping leg (5) through the coupling of the actuating section (8) of the actuating element (4) with the force action of the actuating element (W), and - The actuating element (4) is configured to move the clamping leg (5) between an open position (O) and a closed position (S) via the actuating element (W) to open and close the clamping portion. Its features are, A support element (10) is provided at the operating section (8), wherein the support element (10) forms a contact surface (11) for the actuating element (W).

2. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control element (4) is configured as a pivotable control lever (4a).

3. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support element (10) is movably disposed at the operating section (8).

4. The terminal block (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The operating section (8) has a guide profile (12) for accommodating the guide element (13) of the support element (10).

5. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support element (10) has a locking element (14) for fastening the support element (10) to the operating section (8).

6. The terminal block (1) according to claims 4 and 5, characterized in that, The guide element (13) of the support element (10) is formed by the locking element (14).

7. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, The support element (10) has at least two guide elements (13) which are disposed offset from each other on opposite sides of the support element (10) and / or on the support element (10) along the extension direction (E) of the guide profile (12).

8. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support element (10) forms a curved contact surface (11), the curvature of which corresponds to the curvature of the operating section (8) at the support surface toward the support element (10).

9. The terminal block (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The operating section (8) has two opposing edges (36a, 36b) that follow the curvature of the operating section (8).

10. The terminal block (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The operating section (8) has an end stop (34) at the side wall, wherein the bending direction of the operating section (8) is limited by the end stop (34).

11. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The actuating element (4) and the supporting element (10) are made of different materials.

12. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The support element (10) is made of polyamide, polyketone, polytetrafluoroethylene or polyoxymethylene.

13. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The clamping spring (3) has an operating leg (15) extending from the clamping leg (5), and an operating edge (9) supported at the support element (10) is formed at the operating leg, wherein the operating leg (15) forms the actuating element (W).

14. The terminal block (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The control leg (15) is configured as a control bow with two side tabs (17) connected to each other by a transverse tab (16), wherein the control edge (9) is formed at the transverse tab (16).

15. The terminal block (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The clamping spring (3) has a contact leg (18) that passes through the operating bow.

16. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The actuating element (W) is a force transmitter independent of the actuating element (4) and the clamping spring (3), and the force transmitter is disposed between the support element (10) and the clamping leg (5).

17. The terminal block (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The force transmission element is connected to the clamping leg (5) in a shape-fitting manner.

18. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The control element (4) has an operating section (19) adjacent to the control section (8).

19. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The terminal block (1) has an insulating material housing (20) with a receiving portion (22) for the operating element (4) and the operating element (4) has a guide plate (25) for guiding the operating element (4) along the inner wall (27) of the housing of the receiving portion (22).

20. The terminal block (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The inner wall portion (27) of the housing has a stop surface (28) which forms a stop portion for the guide plate (25).

21. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The actuating element (4) has a wall adjacent to the actuating section (8), wherein a retaining protrusion (32) extends from the wall and is configured to cooperate with the retaining edge (33) of the insulating material housing (2) in a shape-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

22. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The terminal block (1) is configured to connect electrical wires with a cross-sectional area of ​​16 mm² or greater than 16 mm².

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