Connection terminal for connecting electrical conductors

Abstract

The invention relates to a terminal (1) comprising a housing (10) and a contact element (11) for electrical contact with an electrical conductor (2). A spring element (12) has a support leg (121) and a clamping leg (120) connected to the support leg (121), wherein the clamping leg (120) is elastically movable relative to the support leg (121) into a clamping position and a release position, and the clamping leg is configured to act on the electrical conductor (2) in the clamping position to bring it into contact with the contact element (11). A locking element (15) is integrally formed with the contact element (11), wherein the locking element (15) is elastically movable on the contact element (11). In contrast, a trigger element (13) is not integrally formed with the housing (10), the contact element (11) and the spring element (12). The trigger element (13) is configured to, when moved out of an initial position, actuate the locking element (15) to release the clamping leg (120) from the release position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal block for connecting electrical wires as described in the preamble of claim 1. Background Technology

[0002] This type of terminal block includes a housing with a plug-in opening into which an electrical wire can be inserted in a plug-in direction to connect to the terminal block. A contact element is arranged on the housing for electrical contact with the electrical wire. A spring element has a support leg supported on the contact element and / or the housing and a clamping leg connected to the support leg, the clamping leg acting on the electrical wire. The clamping leg is resiliently movable relative to the support leg to a clamped position and a released position, and is configured to act on the electrical wire in the clamped position to bring it into contact with the contact element. The clamping leg can engage with a locking element to be locked in the released position. A trigger element can move out of the initial position by acting in conjunction with the electrical wire when it is inserted into the plug-in opening, thereby releasing the clamping leg from the released position.

[0003] This type of terminal block achieves a spring-loaded connection by using a spring element, wherein the electrical wire is clamped to the contact element in the connection position by the elastic spring action of the spring element, and is thus electrically connected to the contact element.

[0004] A terminal block with a spring element is known from DE 10 2019 132 316 A1, wherein a trigger element is formed on a support leg. In the released position of the clamping leg of the spring element, the clamping leg locks with the trigger element.

[0005] Another configuration of the terminal block is known from DE 20 2022 104 223 U1.

[0006] In implementing a spring element for a spring-loaded connector, and in a self-triggering terminal block, the terminal block is reliably triggered upon insertion of the electrical wire, and further reliably holds the clamping leg of the spring element in the released position, while simultaneously requiring a compact and simple configuration. It should be noted that the terminal block may need to remain in the released position for extended periods, for example, because the terminal block is delivered by the manufacturer in this condition. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The objective of this invention is to provide a terminal block that can be compactly and simply constructed, and that can be reliably triggered when a wire is inserted, and that can reliably hold the clamping leg in the released position.

[0008] This task is solved by a subject having the features of claim 1.

[0009] Accordingly, the locking element and the contact element are integrally formed, and the locking element is capable of elastic movement on the contact element. In contrast, the trigger element is not integrally formed with the housing, the contact element, and the spring element. The trigger element is configured to actuate the locking element as it moves out of the initial position, thereby releasing the clamping leg from the release position.

[0010] In a terminal block, the conductor makes electrical contact with the electrical contact element by means that, when the conductor is inserted into the socket, clamping legs act on the conductor and spring-load it elastically toward contact with the contact element. To simplify conductor insertion, the clamping legs of the spring element can be elastically deflected to move the clamping legs to a release position, in which space within the housing and in the area of ​​the socket is released, allowing the conductor to be inserted into the socket substantially without resistance, or allowing the connected conductor to be easily removed from the terminal block.

[0011] The terminal block has a locking element integrally formed with the contact element, by which the clamping leg is locked relative to the housing in the released position. In the released position, the clamping leg and the locking element are in a locked connection, so that the clamping leg is held in the released position, and thus a simple and substantially powerless plugging of the wire to the terminal block is possible.

[0012] Terminal blocks can be delivered to customers by the manufacturer with the clamping legs in the released position.

[0013] Additionally, a triggering element is provided, which is designed to work in conjunction with the electrical wire when it is inserted, such that the triggering element is adjusted upon insertion, thereby actuating the locking element and releasing the latch between the locking element and the clamping legs. Thus, upon insertion, the terminal block is automatically triggered, causing the electrical wire to contact the contact element via the clamping legs and thereby electrically connect to the terminal block.

[0014] The trigger element is not integrally formed with the housing, contact element, and spring element. Therefore, the trigger element is made as a separate component and is arranged, for example, on the contact element or housing to facilitate the assembly of the terminal block, so that the trigger element can move within the terminal block to actuate the locking element when the wire is inserted, and thus release the clamping leg from the release position.

[0015] Because the trigger element is adjusted when the wire is inserted, thereby actuating the locking element and releasing the clamping legs from the released position, the terminal block automatically closes when the wire is inserted. This ensures reliable contact between the wire and the contact element through the clamping action of the clamping legs, resulting in a simplified wiring process.

[0016] The spring element is supported on the housing and / or contact element by the support leg, and is thus held in position within the housing. The clamping leg can be elastically deflected relative to the support leg, wherein the clamping leg is deflected in the release position such that the spring element is elastically tensioned, and the clamping leg moves out of the release position in an elastically preloaded manner after being released from the release position.

[0017] Because the locking element and the contact element are integrally molded, a simple configuration of the terminal block can be obtained, making it easy to assemble. In particular, the terminal block can be assembled in a simple manner, for example, by fitting the assembly consisting of the contact element, the spring element, and the trigger element into the housing.

[0018] Because the locking element and the contact element are integrally formed, the locking element can be made of a different material than the spring element. The spring element, in particular, can be made of spring steel. In contrast, the contact element can be made together with the locking element, for example, of copper or brass.

[0019] The locking element is capable of elastic movement on the contact element. In one design, when the clamping leg moves to the release position and engages with the locking element, the locking element can move independently of the trigger element. When the clamping leg moves to the release position, the clamping leg contacts the locking element with its locking section, causing the locking element to deflect such a distance that the clamping leg passes through the designated locking section of the locking element, and then the locking element elastically returns to its relaxed initial position, thereby locking with the clamping leg. The deflection of the locking element occurs independently of the trigger element; that is, it does not cause the trigger element to move with it.

[0020] Because the locking element can move independently of the trigger element during engagement with the clamping legs, the clamping legs can easily and comfortably engage with the locking element when moved to the release position. Therefore, the dimensions of the locking element can be determined such that only a small force is required to engage the clamping legs with the locking element. Since the locking element can move independently of the trigger element to establish the lock, the trigger element does not need to move with it, and this does not affect the force required to lock the clamping legs when moving to the release position.

[0021] Because the locking element and the contact element are integrally molded, a force flow is generated in the released position, which passes through the mechanically stable, loadable contact element. If the spring element is supported on the contact element, the resultant force on the housing (made of electrically insulating plastic) is negligible, so that the tension of the spring element when the clamping leg is in the released position does not cause a continuous load on the housing.

[0022] In one design, the support leg extends flatly along a plane extending from the insertion direction and a depth direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. The spring element is supported by the support leg and thus held statically on the terminal. For example, the support leg is thus fixed to the wall section of the contact element and thereby fixed relative to the contact element.

[0023] In one design, the support leg is fixed to the wall section of the contact element. Preferably, the locking element is also formed on the wall section in such a way that the locking element can move elastically on the wall section, thereby allowing the locking element to be adjusted by a trigger element to release the lock.

[0024] In one design, the clamping leg is connected to the support leg via a bent section. A locking element is formed on the edge of the wall section away from the bent section. The clamping leg is connected to the support leg via the bent section and is secured to the wall section of the contact element by the support leg, where the locking element is formed. Here, viewed from the bent section side, the locking element is located behind the support leg, allowing for easy locking of the clamping leg in the released position.

[0025] In one design, the contact element has a base, and a wall section is bent relative to the base. For example, the wall section is bent relative to the base around a bending axis pointing in the insertion direction.

[0026] In one design, the contact element has an additional (second) wall section for electrical contact with a conductor, wherein the additional (second) wall section extends parallel to the (first) wall section supporting the support leg. The contact element is, for example, constructed with a contact groove formed by a base and two wall sections, each curved relative to the base and extending flatly along two mutually parallel planes. Therefore, the contact groove can, for example, have a U-shaped configuration in a cross-section perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0027] The contact element is particularly constructed of metal, for example, as a metal stamping and bending part. In particular, the contact element can be integrally and integrally formed, wherein the contact groove is integrally formed with other sections of the contact element.

[0028] In one design, the clamping leg of the spring element is located in the space formed by the contact groove, and is thus movable within the contact groove. Therefore, the spring element is at least partially, i.e., at least a section of the clamping leg, housed in the contact groove, allowing the clamping leg to move within the contact groove between a release position and a clamping position. In the release position, the clamping leg is spaced apart from, for example, a wall section of the contact groove, allowing a conductor to be introduced into the intermediate space between the clamping leg and the wall section. Conversely, in the clamping position, the clamping leg clamps against the introduced conductor, pressing the conductor against the wall section of the contact groove, and thus making electrical contact with the contact groove.

[0029] In one design, a housing defines a receiving space into which an electrical wire can be introduced by insertion into a plug-in opening. A trigger element is arranged within the receiving space to interact with the electrical wire and can be adjusted relative to the housing from an initial position through this interaction.

[0030] In one design, the trigger element has a trigger leg for interacting with a wire. Specifically, the trigger leg extends approximately transversely to the insertion direction into an area of ​​the receiving space aligned with the insertion opening, such that when the wire is inserted, the wire strikes the trigger leg, thereby adjusting the trigger element. Thus, the trigger element adjusts out of its initial position upon wire insertion, causing a clamping leg to be released and movable from the released position toward the clamping position.

[0031] In one design, the spring element is constructed as a tension spring. In this case, the clamping leg of the spring element is configured to pull the electrical wire into contact with the contact element by the spring force. For this purpose, an opening may be formed in the clamping leg, through which the electrical wire can be guided when inserted into the insertion opening of the housing, so that after the clamping leg is triggered from the release position, the electrical wire is pulled into clamping contact with the contact element.

[0032] Alternatively, the spring element can be configured as a compression spring. In this case, the clamping leg is configured to press the wire against the contact element by the spring force. The wire reaches the space between the clamping leg and the contact element when inserted into the insertion opening, wherein, after the clamping leg is triggered from the release position, the clamping leg acts on the wire and presses the wire against the contact element.

[0033] In one design, the trigger element has a connecting arm through which a trigger leg is connected to a contact element or housing. The connecting arm may, for example, be elastically deformable, such that deformation of the connecting arm allows the trigger leg to elastically deflect relative to the contact element or housing.

[0034] In one design, the trigger element is supported on the contact element by a support end. The trigger element is manufactured as a separate component, but is connected to the contact element by the support end in such a way that the trigger element can move relative to the contact element so that it moves out of its initial position and acts on the locking element when the wire is inserted, and releases the locking of the clamping leg in the release position.

[0035] For example, the contact element has a support section on which the support end of the trigger element rests. The support section may be formed on the contact element, for example, as a tab, on a face section of the contact element, or on the base of the contact element. For example, the support end engages around the support section, thereby establishing fixation of the trigger element on the contact element.

[0036] In one design, the supporting end of the trigger element rests on a wall section of the contact element, and the supporting leg of the spring element also rests on this wall section. For example, the supporting end occupies an intermediate position between the wall section and the supporting leg. In this case, the supporting end can, for example, be shaped as a surface section located between the wall section and the supporting leg. The supporting leg is fixed to the wall section, for example, by riveting, wherein, due to its intermediate position between the wall section and the supporting leg, the supporting end is also fixed relative to the wall section.

[0037] In one design, the trigger element is supported against torque on the contact element with a support end. Preferably, the trigger element is elastically deformable, particularly in the region of the connecting arm that connects the trigger leg to the support end. If the conductor acts on the trigger leg when inserted into the socket, deformation occurs on the trigger element, but the support end remains fixed in position relative to the contact element.

[0038] In one design, the trigger element is supported in a manner that allows it to swing relative to the housing. Therefore, the trigger element can pivot out of its initial position and, upon moving out of the initial position, actuate the locking element, thereby releasing the clamping leg from its locked position.

[0039] For example, the triggering element has a shaft element that can be pivotally supported relative to the housing. For example, a support portion is constructed on the housing, on which the shaft element is supported. Such a support portion can be formed, for example, by a half-shell formed on the housing, which is completed by another half-shell on the contact element, such that the shaft element is supported between the housing and the contact element, and thereby can pivot relative to the housing.

[0040] In one design, the trigger element has an actuating section for actuating the locking element. If the trigger element moves when the wire is inserted, it actuates the locking element via the actuating section, thereby releasing the latch of the clamping leg. The actuating section engages around the locking element such that, when the trigger element deflects, force is transmitted via the actuating section to the locking element, thereby moving the locking element out of its locked position.

[0041] For example, the actuating section has a hook section that engages around the locking element. The actuating section extends from the trigger leg or connecting arm, for example, as a tab. The hook section is formed on the end of the actuating section away from the trigger leg or connecting arm, and engages around the locking element in such a way that when the trigger element deflects, it actuates the locking element to release the latching leg.

[0042] In another design, the action section may be constructed with a slit opening into which a locking element is inserted, so that when the trigger element moves, the locking element is driven through the action section.

[0043] In one design, the locking element has a locking arm with a locking section for engaging with the clamping leg. The locking arm is sized such that the locking element can elastically deform within its region and thus elastically move relative to the contact element. The locking section on the locking arm can be formed, for example, by a bent end in the form of a locking hook or by a locking edge. In the released position, the clamping leg engages with the locking section and is thus held in position by the locking element.

[0044] In one design, the clamping leg has a locking section for engaging with a locking element in the released position. In another design, the locking section of the clamping leg is specifically formed via a locking opening on the clamping leg, into which the locking element engages in the released position. In yet another design, the locking section of the clamping leg can be formed via a locking tab on the clamping leg, which protrudes and engages with a locking element in the released position. In this case, the locking element may, for example, have a locking opening into which the locking tab of the clamping leg engages in the released position.

[0045] The spring element is preferably formed as a component that elastically springs back, for example, made of spring steel.

[0046] Spring elements can be formed, for example, as stamped and bent parts.

[0047] In one design, the contact element has a contact section for making electrical contact with a mating contact element. The contact section can be configured as a contact socket or a contact pin, and is used to establish a mating connection with the mating contact element. If the contact section is configured as a contact pin, the mating contact is preferably formed as a contact socket. Conversely, if the contact section is formed as a contact socket, the mating contact is configured as a contact pin.

[0048] The contact section can protrude longitudinally from the contact groove along the insertion direction, so that the contact section can be connected to the mating contact element along the insertion direction.

[0049] In one design, the terminal block has an adjustable actuating element disposed on the housing, which can be adjusted in the actuating direction to move the clamping leg to the release position. The actuating element may be designed as a button, for example, and is pressed into the housing by the user to act on the clamping leg in such a way that the clamping leg is adjusted toward the release position.

[0050] The direction of operation can be, for example, along the plugging direction (where the electrical wire is inserted into the plugging opening of the housing along the plugging direction to connect to the terminal block).

[0051] In another design, the control element can also pivot relative to the housing.

[0052] Instead of actuating elements, it can also be set that the clamping legs can be deflected by a separate tool, such as a screwdriver. Attached Figure Description

[0053] The ideas based on the present invention are explained in detail below with the aid of embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. These embodiments illustrate: Figure 1A A view of an embodiment of a terminal block is shown, which has a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 1B A view of a terminal block is shown, with the clamping leg of the spring element in the released position. Figure 1C A view of the terminals with an electrical wire inserted is shown; Figure 1D A view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping legs are in the clamped position; Figure 2A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the clamping position; Figure 2B A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the released position; Figure 3A Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the clamping position; Figure 3B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the released position; Figure 4A A separate view of the contact element is shown; Figure 4B A side view of the contact element is shown; Figure 4C A front view of the contact element is shown; Figure 5A A separate view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 5B A side view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 5C A front view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 6A A separate view of the spring element is shown; Figure 6B A side view of the spring element is shown; Figure 6C A front view of the spring element is shown; Figure 7A A view of another embodiment of a terminal block is shown, which has a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 7B A view of a terminal block is shown, with the clamping leg of the spring element in the released position. Figure 7C A view of the terminals with an electrical wire inserted is shown; Figure 7D A view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping legs are in the clamped position; Figure 8A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the clamping position; Figure 8B A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the released position; Figure 9A Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the clamping position; Figure 9B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, wherein the clamping leg is in the released position; Figure 10A A separate view of the contact element is shown; Figure 10B A side view of the contact element is shown; Figure 10C A front view of the contact element is shown; Figure 11A A separate view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 11B A side view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 11C A front view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 12A A view of another embodiment of a terminal block is shown, which has a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 12B A view of a terminal block is shown, with the clamping leg of the spring element in the released position. Figure 12C A view of the terminals with an electrical wire inserted is shown; Figure 12D A view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping legs are in the clamped position; Figure 13 It shows according to Figure 12D A partial cross-sectional view of the device; Figure 14A A perspective view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping legs are in the clamping position; Figure 14B A perspective view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping leg is in the released position; Figure 15A Another perspective view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping legs are in the clamping position; Figure 15B Another perspective view of the terminal block is shown, in which the clamping leg is in the released position; Figure 16A A separate view of the housing of the terminal block is shown; Figure 16B A side view of the housing component is shown; Figure 17A A separate view of the contact element is shown; Figure 17B A side view of the contact element is shown; Figure 17C A front view of the contact element is shown; Figure 18A A separate view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 18B A side view of the trigger element is shown; Figure 18C A side view is shown after the trigger element has been rotated; and Figure 18D A front view of the trigger element is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Figures 1A-1D to Figures 6A-6C A view of one embodiment of a terminal block 1 is shown, which has a housing 10 having a plug opening 100 formed thereon for inserting an electrical wire 2.

[0055] Terminal 1 is designed as a spring connector. Housing 10 defines a receiving space 101 into which the wire 2 is introduced with its stripped conductor end 20 when inserted into the insertion opening 100 along the insertion direction E. In the connected position, the wire 2 with its stripped conductor end 20 is located inside the receiving space 101 and is electrically connected to the contact element 11 via the clamping leg 120 of the spring element 12, thus electrically connecting the wire 2 to terminal 1.

[0056] exist Figures 4A-4C The contact element 11 of the terminal 1, shown in a separate view, has a contact groove 110 and a contact section 114 protruding from the contact groove 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact section 114 is formed by a contact socket that can be inserted into the mating section 103 of the housing 10 and is grounded with the mating contacts of the mating connector 4 along the mating direction E.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the contact element 11 is integrally manufactured as a stamped and bent part.

[0058] The contact groove 110 has a U-shaped configuration in a cross section transverse to the insertion direction E, and is composed of a base 111 and wall sections 112 and 113 connected thereto and curved relative to the base 111.

[0059] These wall segments 112 and 113 are respectively curved relative to the base 111 around a bending axis extending longitudinally along the insertion direction E, and extend in planes pointing parallel to each other, as shown in this example. Figures 4A-4C As can be seen in the text.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the spring element 12 is supported on the wall section 112 of the contact groove 110 by a support leg 121. The clamping leg 120 is connected to the support leg 121 by a bending section 122 that provides a bending joint. The bent section 122 provides a bending radius by which the clamping leg 120 can elastically pivot relative to the support leg 121 about a swing axis approximately concentric with the bending section 122.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the spring element 12 is housed within the contact groove 110 such that the clamping leg 120 can move within the contact groove 110. For connection of the electrical wire 2, the electrical wire 2 can be introduced through the insertion opening 100 into the receiving space 101 inside the housing 10, and thus into the contact groove 110, reaching a midpoint between the clamping leg 120 and the wall section 113 of the contact groove 110. Within the receiving space 101, the clamping leg 120 of the spring element 12 is pressed against the wall section 113 of the contact element 11, thereby making electrical contact with the contact element 11.

[0062] The clamping leg 120 can be elastically deflected relative to the support leg 121, and in particular, the clamping leg 120 clamps the wire 2 connected to the terminal 1 in the clamped position, and presses the wire 2 into contact with the wall section 113 of the contact element 11 under elastic preload.

[0063] Terminal block 1 has an operating element 14, which is configured with a head 140 and a lever 141 extending from the head 140. The operating element 14 is housed in an operating opening 102 provided in the housing 10 and can be adjusted relative to the housing 10 along the operating direction B between an unoperated position and an operated position. Here, the operating element 14 acts on the clamping leg 120 via the lever 141 so that when adjusted in the direction of the operated position, the clamping leg is moved from the clamped position to the position. Figure 1B In the visible release position, the area inside the contact groove 110 that is aligned with the insertion opening 100 along the insertion direction E is released by the clamping leg 120, so that the wire 2 can be inserted into the insertion opening 100 in a substantially powerless manner and connected to the corresponding terminal 1.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 has a trigger element 13 configured with a trigger leg 130 that, in the unloaded initial position, extends substantially transversely to the insertion direction E and extends into the area inside the contact groove 110 aligned with the insertion opening 100 along the insertion direction E, such as in… Figure 1A , Figure 1B As can be seen in the text.

[0065] The trigger element 13 is made as a separate component and, in the illustrated embodiment, is supported by a support section 115 formed as a protruding tab on the base 111 of the contact element 11 with a support end 133. The trigger element 13 is arranged behind the wall section 112 with respect to the insertion direction E, and a support leg 121 is supported on the wall section. Here, the trigger element 13 is elastically movable relative to the contact element 11 such that when the wire 2 is inserted into the corresponding insertion opening 100 of the corresponding terminal 1 along the insertion direction E, the trigger leg 130 can be deflected by its interaction with the wire 2.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger element 13 has a strip-shaped connecting arm 131 through which the trigger leg 130 is connected to a support end 133, and through the support end 133 to the base 111 of the contact element 11. The support end 133 is bent such that it engages around a support section 115 on the base 111 of the contact element 11. Thus, the support end 133 is torque-resistantly supported on the support section 115. The connecting arm 131 itself is elastically deformable, such that when bending occurs in the connecting arm 131, the trigger element 13 can elastically move relative to the contact element 11.

[0067] These wall sections 112, 113 protrude from the base 111 in the depth direction T, which is perpendicular to the insertion direction E. The trigger element 13 is arranged next to the base 111 with respect to the depth direction T.

[0068] The insertion direction E and the lateral direction Q perpendicular to the insertion direction E and the depth direction T unfold into a swing plane, which not only clamps the leg 120 but also allows the trigger element 13 to be elastically deflected along the swing plane.

[0069] A locking element 15 is formed on the wall section 112 of the contact element 11. The locking element has a locking arm 150 and a locking section 151 formed through the hook-shaped end of the locking arm 150. The locking element 15 extends from the wall section 112 as a tab and points from the wall section 112 toward the wall section 113.

[0070] exist Figures 5A-5C The trigger element 13 shown in a separate view has an action section 132 formed as a tab on the trigger leg 130, which engages with the locking element 15 at the end away from the trigger leg 130 by a hook section 134.

[0071] exist Figure 1BIn the released position of the clamping leg 120, as shown, the clamping leg 120 engages with the locking element 15 and is thus held in a position relative to the wall section 112, and consequently relative to the support leg 121. In the released position, the locking element 15 engages here with a hook-shaped locking section 151 into a locking opening 124 on the clamping leg 120, and thereby holds the clamping leg 120 in the released position, as shown from... Figure 2B and Figure 3B As can be seen.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, Figures 6A-6C The support leg 121 of the spring element 12, shown in a separate view, extends flatly along a plane unfolded by the insertion direction E and the depth direction T. The support leg 121 is fixed to the wall section 112 of the contact element 11, for example by riveting, through the fixing opening 123.

[0073] If the wire 2 is inserted into the insertion opening 100 of the terminal 1 ( Figure 1C Then, the conductor end 20 of the wire 2 collides with the trigger leg 130 inside the receiving space 101, and adjusts the trigger element 13, causing the locking element 15 to be actuated, thereby releasing the lock between the locking element 15 and the clamping leg 120. Therefore, the clamping leg 120 is released from the released position and achieves a clamping connection with the inserted wire 2. Figure 1D This causes the wire 2 to be clamped to the wall section 113 of the contact groove 110 of the contact element 11, and thereby electrically connected to the contact element 11.

[0074] Therefore, the locking mechanism of the clamping leg 120 automatically releases when the electrical wire 2 is inserted, so that the clamping leg 120 is no longer held in the released position. Due to the spring preload of the spring element 12, the clamping leg 120 moves toward the clamping position and clamps the inserted electrical wire 2 inside the contact groove 110 with the wall section 113 of the contact element 11, so that the electrical wire 2 is electrically connected to the contact element 11 and is also mechanically locked to the terminal 1.

[0075] If the connected wire 2 is to be released from the terminal 1 again, the operating element 14 can be pressed into the housing 10 in the operating direction B so that the clamping leg 120 is moved to the release position and thus the wire 2 is released.

[0076] Since the trigger element 13 is fixed on the contact element 11 and the locking element 15 is integrally formed with the wall section 112 of the contact element 11, the assembly of the spring connector of the terminal 1 can be achieved in a simple manner.

[0077] The locking element 15 can, in principle, deflect independently of the trigger element 13. Specifically, when the clamping leg 120 moves to the release position, the clamping leg 120 can contact the locking section 151 of the locking element 15, thereby causing the locking element 15 to (slightly) move out of its relaxed initial position without causing the trigger element 13 to move. Therefore, when establishing a lock, the locking element 15 can move independently of the trigger element 13.

[0078] Conversely, if the trigger element 13 is adjusted by the action of the electrical wire 2, the locking element 15 is actuated by the coupling through the action section 132. As a result, the locking element 15 is released from the clamping leg 120, and thus the clamping leg 120 is released from the released position.

[0079] In the released position of the clamping leg 120, the clamping leg 120 is tensioned relative to the supporting leg 121. Here, there is a force flow that passes through the locking element 15, flows into the supporting leg 121 fixed to the wall section 112, and then returns to the spring element 12. Therefore, the tension force on the spring element 12 is absorbed by the contact element 11 and the spring element 12, and there is no notable resultant force acting on the housing 10. Therefore, even if the terminal 1 remains in the released position with the clamping leg 120 tensioned for a long period of time, the housing 10 will not be damaged or even destroyed due to material fatigue.

[0080] exist Figures 7A-7D to Figures 11A-11C In another embodiment shown, the trigger element 13 is supported on the wall section 112 of the contact element 11 by a support end 133 constructed via a surface segment, and the support leg 121 of the spring element 12 is also fixed to the wall section. This is according to... Figures 7A-7D Side view and according to Figure 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 9A , Figure 9B As can be seen in the perspective view, the support end 133 occupies a midpoint between the support leg 121 and the wall section 112, so that the support end 133 is held against torque.

[0081] Similarly, as described above, the trigger leg 130 of the trigger element 13 is connected to the support end 133 via the connecting arm 131. The trigger element 13 is coupled to the locking element 15 formed on the wall section 112 of the contact element 11 via the actuating section 132 and the hook section 134 formed thereon, such that when the trigger element 13 deflects, the locking element 15 is actuated, thereby releasing the clamping leg 120 from the release position.

[0082] Except that the trigger element 13 is supported on the wall section 112 via the support end 133, this embodiment of the terminal block 1 is functionally the same as that according to Figures 1A-1D to Figures 6A-6C The embodiments are the same, and therefore the description of the foregoing embodiments should also be referred to.

[0083] According to Figures 7A-7D to Figures 11A-11C In the embodiment, the spring element 12 and according to Figures 1A-1D to Figures 6A-6C The spring element 12 in the embodiment has the same structure.

[0084] exist Figures 12A-12D to Figures 18A-18D In another embodiment shown, the trigger element 13 is made as a separate component and is pivotally supported relative to the housing 10 by a shaft element 135. In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger element 13 is designed as a pivotable lever having a trigger leg 130 and a connecting arm 131 connecting the trigger leg 130 to the shaft element 135.

[0085] Here, the shaft element 135 is supported at a support portion that is connected to the housing member constituting the housing 10. Figure 16A , Figure 16B On and in contact element 11 (see) Figures 17A-17C The half-shells 104 and 116 are formed on the shell and are therefore able to swing relative to the shell 10.

[0086] Compared to the embodiments described above, in this embodiment, the trigger element 13 itself cannot be elastically deformable, but is designed as a rigid, substantially non-deformable component. Due to its swingable support, the trigger element 13 can easily move relative to the housing 10.

[0087] Spring element 12 is designed in the same way as the spring element in the above embodiment. Actuating element 14 is also designed in the same way as the actuating element in the above embodiment.

[0088] By manipulating the operating element 14, the clamping leg 120 of the spring element 12 can be moved to the release position when the wire 2 is inserted for connection to the terminal 1, as is the case when... Figures 12A to 12B As can be seen in the transition. In the released position, the clamping leg 120 engages with the locking element 15 through the locking section 151 into the locking opening 124 on the clamping leg 120, and is thus held in position relative to the contact element 11.

[0089] When the wire 2 is inserted, the wire strikes the trigger leg 130 of the trigger element 13, thereby causing the trigger element 13 to pivot about the swing axis defined by the shaft element 135. Here, the locking element 15 is thus actuated by the actuating section 132, causing the locking section 151 to disengage from the locking opening 124 on the clamping leg 120, and thus the clamping leg 120 is released from the release position, as is the case when... Figures 12C to 12D As can be seen in the transition.

[0090] As this is based on Figure 13 Partial sectional view, and based on Figures 18A-18D As can be seen in a separate view of the trigger element 13, a slit opening 136 is formed in the actuating section 132, in which the locking element 15 is received by a locking arm 150. Thus, when the trigger element 13 pivots, the locking element 15 deflects on the wall section 112 of the contact element 11, and thus releases the latching from the clamping leg 120.

[0091] Apart from the design of the trigger element 13, the embodiments described herein are functionally essentially the same as the foregoing embodiments, and therefore reference should also be made to the description of these embodiments.

[0092] The ideas upon which this invention is based are not limited to the foregoing embodiments, but can also be implemented in other ways.

[0093] The actuating element can be linearly movable or pivotable and can be manipulated to move the clamping legs to the release position. However, a design without an actuating element and with terminals can also be used, in which the clamping legs can be acted upon by a separate tool, such as a screwdriver.

[0094] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0095] 1 terminal block

[0096] 10 housing

[0097] 100mm plug opening

[0098] 101 Accommodation Space

[0099] 102 Operating opening

[0100] 103 plug-in section

[0101] 104 Support Part

[0102] 11 Contact Elements

[0103] 110 contact groove

[0104] 111 base

[0105] Sections 112 and 113

[0106] 114 contact section

[0107] 115 support section

[0108] 116 Supporting parts

[0109] 12 clamping springs

[0110] 120 Clamping Legs

[0111] 121 Supporting Legs

[0112] 122-curved section

[0113] 123 Fixed opening

[0114] 124 Locking Opening

[0115] 13 trigger elements

[0116] 130 trigger legs

[0117] 131 connecting arm

[0118] 132 functional section

[0119] 133 support end

[0120] 134 hook section

[0121] 135 oscillating shaft (shaft element)

[0122] 136 gap opening

[0123] 14 control elements

[0124] 140 heads

[0125] 141 pole section

[0126] 15 locking elements

[0127] 150 locking arm

[0128] 151 Locked Section

[0129] 2 wires

[0130] 20 conductor ends

[0131] B controls the direction.

[0132] E insertion direction

[0133] Q horizontal direction

[0134] T-depth direction

Claims

1. A terminal block (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (2), comprising: The housing (10) has a plug-in opening (100) into which an electrical wire (2) can be inserted along the plug-in direction (E) to connect to a terminal block (1). A contact element (11) arranged on the housing (10) is used for electrical contact with the electrical conductor (2). A spring element (12) having a support leg (121) supported on a contact element (11) and / or a housing (10), and a clamping leg (120) connected to the support leg (121), the clamping leg being used to act on an electrical conductor (2), wherein, The clamping leg (120) is elastically movable relative to the supporting leg (121) to a clamping position and a released position, and the clamping leg is configured to act on the conductor (2) in the clamping position to bring the conductor into contact with the contact element (11). The locking element (15) and the clamping leg (120) are capable of engaging with the locking element (15) to be locked in the release position, and Trigger element (13), which can move out of its initial position by acting in conjunction with the wire (2) when it is inserted into the plug opening (100), so as to release the clamping leg (120) from the release position. The characteristic feature is that the locking element (15) and the contact element (11) are integrally formed, wherein the locking element (15) is elastically movable on the contact element (11). The trigger element (13) is not integrally formed with the housing (10), the contact element (11) and the spring element (12). The trigger element (13) is configured to drive the locking element (15) to release the clamping leg (120) from the release position when it moves out of the initial position.

2. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking element (15) can move independently of the trigger element (13) during engagement with the clamping leg (120).

3. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support leg (121) extends flatly along a plane unfolded by the insertion direction (E) and the depth direction (T) perpendicular to the insertion direction (E).

4. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The support leg (121) is fixed to the wall section (112) of the contact element (11).

5. The terminal block (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking element (15) is formed on the wall section (112) and is able to move elastically relative to the wall section (112).

6. The terminal block (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The clamping leg (120) is connected to the support leg (121) via a bent section (122), wherein the locking element (15) is formed on the edge of the wall section (112) away from the bent section (122).

7. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, The contact element (11) has a base (111) and a wall section (112) that is bent relative to the base.

8. The terminal block (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The wall sections (112, 113) bend relative to the base (111) around a bending axis pointing in the insertion direction (E).

9. The terminal block (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The contact element (11) has an additional wall section (113) for electrical contact with the electrical conductor (2), wherein the additional wall section (113) extends parallel to the wall section (112).

10. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The housing (10) defines a receiving space (101) into which an electrical wire (2) can be introduced by inserting it into a plug opening (100), wherein a trigger element (13) is arranged in the receiving space (101) to work in conjunction with the electrical wire (2).

11. The terminal block (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has a trigger leg (130) which is used in conjunction with the electrical wire (2).

12. The terminal block (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, In the initial position of the trigger element (13), the trigger leg (130) extends laterally in the insertion direction (E) within the receiving space (10) so as to work together with the electrical wire (2) when it is inserted.

13. The terminal block (1) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has a connecting arm (131) and the trigger leg (130) is connected to the contact element (11) or the housing (10) via the connecting arm (131).

14. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is supported on the contact element (11) with a support end (133).

15. The terminal block (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The contact element (11) has a support section (115), and the support end (133) of the trigger element (13) is supported on the support section.

16. The terminal block (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The supporting end (133) of the trigger element (13) is supported on the wall section (112) of the contact element (11), and the supporting leg (121) of the spring element (12) is also supported on the wall section.

17. The terminal block (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The support end (133) occupies the middle position between the wall section (112) and the support leg (121).

18. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that, The trigger element (11) is supported against torque on the contact element (11) by the support end (133).

19. The terminal block (1) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is elastically deformable.

20. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is oscillatingly supported relative to the housing (10).

21. The terminal block (1) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has a shaft element (135) that is pivotally supported relative to the housing (10).

22. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has an action section (132) which is used to drive the locking element (15).

23. The terminal block (1) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The action section (132) has a hook section (134) that engages around the locking element (15).

24. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The locking element (15) has a locking arm (150) configured with a locking section (151) for engaging with the clamping leg (120).

25. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The clamping leg (120) has a locking section for locking with the locking element (15) in the release position.

26. The terminal block (1) according to claim 25, characterized in that, The locking section is formed by a locking opening (124) on the clamping leg (120), and in the released position of the clamping leg (120), the locking element (15) engages in the locking opening.

27. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The contact element (11) has a contact section (114) for making electrical contact with the mating contact provided.

28. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, An actuating element (14) is provided on the housing (10) and is adjustable to be moved from an unoperated position to an operated position along the actuating direction (B) in order to adjust the clamping leg (120) to a released position.

Images