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 is configured to act on the electrical conductor (2) in the clamping position to contact the contact element (11). The contact element (11) has a first wall section (112), on which the support leg (121) is supported, and a second wall section (113) extending parallel to the first wall section (112) for electrical contact with the electrical conductor (2), wherein the support leg (121) is arranged on a side of the first wall section (112) facing away from the second wall section (113).

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 terminal block includes a housing having a plug-in opening into which an electrical conductor can be inserted in a plug-in direction for connection to the terminal block. A contact element for making electrical contact with the electrical conductor is arranged on the housing. 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 for acting on the electrical conductor. The clamping leg is resiliently movable relative to the support leg into a clamped position and a released position, and is configured to act on the electrical conductor in the clamped position to contact the contact element. The clamping leg can engage with a snap-fit ​​element to engage in the released position. A trigger element, by interacting with the electrical conductor when inserted into the plug-in opening, is able to move out of the initial position, thereby releasing the clamping leg from the released position.

[0003] This type of terminal block achieves a spring force connection by using a spring element, wherein at the connection position, the wire is clamped to the contact element by the elastic spring of the spring element, thereby electrically connecting 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 engages with the trigger element.

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

[0006] For a terminal block designed to automatically trigger and implement a spring element for achieving spring force connection, a compact and simple structure is generally required, which reliably triggers upon insertion of the electrical wire and, furthermore, reliably retains the clamping leg of the spring element in the released position. It should be noted that the terminal block may remain in the released position for an extended period, for example, because the terminal block is delivered in this condition by the manufacturer. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a terminal block that can be constructed in a compact and simple manner, and can achieve reliable triggering when a wire is inserted, and reliable retention of the clamping leg in the released position.

[0008] This objective is achieved by a subject matter having the features of claim 1.

[0009] Therefore, the contact element has a first wall section on which a support leg rests, and a second wall section extending parallel to the first wall section for making electrical contact with an electrical conductor, wherein the support leg is arranged on the side of the first wall section opposite to the second wall section.

[0010] In this terminal block, the electrical wire makes electrical contact with the electrical contact element by clamping legs acting on the wire when it is inserted into the plug opening, applying spring force towards the contact element. To facilitate wire insertion, the clamping legs of the spring element can be elastically deflected, thereby moving the clamping legs to a release position. In this release position, the space inside the housing in the plug opening area is released, allowing the wire to be inserted into the plug opening with minimal effort, or allowing the connected wire to be easily removed from the terminal block.

[0011] The terminal block has a snap-fit ​​element, for example, integrally formed with a spring element or contact element, which engages the clamping leg relative to the housing in the released position. In the released position, the clamping leg is engaged with the snap-fit ​​element, holding the clamping leg in the released position, thereby allowing for simple, essentially powerless insertion of electrical wires to connect to the terminal block.

[0012] This terminal block can be delivered to the customer by the manufacturer, especially when the clamping leg is in the released position.

[0013] In addition, a triggering element is provided, which is configured to interact with the electrical wire when it is inserted, causing the triggering element to shift during insertion and thereby releasing the engagement between the latching element and the clamping legs. Therefore, when the electrical wire is inserted, the terminal block is automatically triggered, causing the electrical wire to contact the contact element via the clamping legs, thereby establishing an electrical connection with the terminal block.

[0014] Because the trigger element is displaced when the wire is inserted, thereby releasing the clamping legs from the released position, the terminal block automatically closes when the wire is inserted. This creates a simple connection process while ensuring reliable contact between the wire and the contact element through the clamping action of the clamping legs.

[0015] The spring element is supported on the contact element by a support leg, and thus holds its position within the housing. The clamping leg is resiliently deflectable relative to the support leg, wherein in the release position, the clamping leg deflects to resiliently tension the spring element, and the clamping leg moves out of the release position in a resiliently preloaded manner after being released from the release position.

[0016] The contact element has a first wall section and a second wall section. These wall sections extend parallel to each other, i.e., along a parallel plane. A support leg rests on the first wall section. When a wire is inserted into the plug opening and clamped to the contact element by the clamping leg in the clamping position, the wire, through its stripped insulation end, comes into contact with the second wall section, thus making electrical contact between the wire and the second wall section.

[0017] Here, the support leg is positioned on the side of the first wall section facing away from the second wall section. Because the support leg is located on the side of the first wall section away from the second wall section, a greater distance can be maintained between the support leg and the second wall section designed for contact with electrical conductors compared to a position where the support leg is on the side of the first wall section facing the second wall section. This allows, for example, the construction of a curved section with a larger bending radius, connecting the support leg to the clamping leg, and where bending of the spring element occurs primarily during clamping leg movement. For example, the support leg can transition into the curved section without forming an angle or bend at the transition point between the support leg and the curved section, which is advantageous for space-saving installation arrangements.

[0018] By arranging the support legs on the side of the first wall section away from the second wall section, a curved section can be formed with a relatively large radius, even with a small terminal block structure and limited installation space.

[0019] In one design, the support leg is fixed to the first wall section, for example by riveting or welding.

[0020] 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 fixedly held on the terminal. For this purpose, the support leg, for example, rests against the first wall section of the contact element in a planar manner, and is preferably fixed to the wall section and thus fixed to the contact element. The support leg may also rest indirectly against the first wall section, for example, by having a support end of the trigger element sandwiched in between.

[0021] In one design, the contact element has a base, wherein a first wall segment and a second wall segment are arranged at right angles relative to the base. The first and second wall segments extend along parallel planes. The base is positioned perpendicular to the wall segments. The wall segments can be formed, for example, on the base by bending relative to the base about a bending axis extending along the insertion direction.

[0022] In one design, the contact element forms a contact cavity consisting of a base and two wall segments, which are bent relative to the base and extend planarly along two mutually parallel planes. Therefore, the contact cavity can, for example, have a U-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0023] The contact element is specifically constructed as a metal part, such as a metal stamped and bent part. The contact element can be integral and one-piece molded, wherein the contact cavity is formed as a single piece with other sections of the contact element.

[0024] In one design, the clamping leg of the spring element is located in the space created by the contact cavity and is therefore movable within the contact cavity. Thus, the spring element is at least partially, i.e., at least a section of the clamping leg, housed within the contact cavity, allowing the clamping leg to move between a release position and a clamping position within the contact cavity. In the release position, the clamping leg is spaced apart from a second wall section of the contact cavity, allowing a conductor to be introduced into the intermediate space between the clamping leg and the second wall section. In contrast, in the clamping position, the clamping leg clamps the introduced conductor, pressing it against the second wall section of the contact cavity, thereby establishing electrical contact between the conductor and the contact cavity.

[0025] In one design, the latching element and the spring element are molded as a single piece and arranged on the support leg, allowing the latching element to move elastically relative to the support leg.

[0026] Conversely, in another design, the snap-fit ​​element and the contact element are molded as a single piece and can move elastically relative to the contact element.

[0027] Because the snap-fit ​​element and the spring element or contact element are molded in one piece, the terminal block has a simple structure and is easy to install. In particular, the terminal block can be assembled in a simple way, for example, by inserting the assembly consisting of the contact element, spring element and trigger element into the housing.

[0028] Because the latching element and the spring element or contact element are molded as a single piece, a force flow is generated inside the spring element or between the spring element and the contact element when the release position is achieved. Here, the resultant force generated, especially on the housing (made of electrically insulating plastic), can be so small as to be negligible, so that the tension of the spring element does not cause the housing to be subjected to continuous load when the clamping leg is in the release position.

[0029] In one design, the clamping leg is connected to the support leg via a curved section. A latching element is positioned at the end of the support leg away from the curved section, or on the edge of the first wall section away from the curved section. Therefore, viewed from the side of the curved section, the latching element is located distal to the support leg, which facilitates engagement of the latching element with the clamping leg in the released position and simplifies the construction of the latching element.

[0030] In one design, the trigger element is configured to actuate the latching element upon removal from the initial position, thereby releasing the clamping leg from the release position. During the insertion and repositioning of the electrical wire, the trigger element acts on the latching element and deflects it, thereby releasing the latching element from the clamping leg and thus releasing the clamping leg from the release position.

[0031] In one design, when the clamping leg is moved to the release position and engages with the latching element, the latching element can move independently of the triggering element. When the clamping leg is moved to the release position, the clamping leg travels across the latching segment onto the latching element, deflecting the latching element a certain distance until the clamping leg passes the corresponding latching segment of the latching element. The latching element then elastically returns to its relaxed initial position, thereby engaging with the clamping leg. The deflection of the latching element is independent of the triggering element; that is, the triggering element is not actuated during this process.

[0032] Because the latching element can move independently of the trigger element when engaging the clamping legs, engagement between the clamping legs and the latching element can be established easily and comfortably when transitioning to the release position. Therefore, the size of the latching element can be designed so that the force required for engagement between the clamping legs and the latching element is relatively small. Since the latching element can move independently of the trigger element to establish engagement, the trigger element does not need to be actuated, and thus does not affect the force required to engage the clamping legs when transitioning to the release position.

[0033] In one design, the housing defines a receiving space into which an electrical wire can be introduced via an insertion opening. A trigger element is arranged within the receiving space to interact with the electrical wire and is capable of being moved out of the housing relative to its initial position through this interaction with the electrical wire.

[0034] In one design, the trigger element has a trigger leg for interacting with an electrical wire. Specifically, the trigger leg extends approximately transversely to the insertion direction into a receiving space aligned with the insertion opening, such that when an electrical wire is inserted, the wire contacts the trigger leg, thereby displacing the trigger element. Therefore, when the electrical wire is inserted, the trigger element moves away from its initial position, thereby releasing the clamping leg and enabling it to move from the released position towards the clamping position.

[0035] In one design, the spring element is configured 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 on the clamping leg, through which the electrical wire can pass when inserted into the insertion opening of the housing, so that the electrical wire is pulled into clamping contact with the contact element after the clamping leg is triggered from the release position.

[0036] Alternatively, the spring element can be configured as a compression spring. In this case, the clamping legs are configured to press the electrical wire against the contact element by spring force. When the insertion opening is reached, the electrical wire enters the space between the clamping legs and the contact element, where the clamping legs, triggered from the release position, act on the electrical wire and press it into contact with the contact element.

[0037] In one design, the trigger element has at least one connecting arm through which a trigger leg is connected to a support leg of a spring element, a contact element, or a housing. The at least one connecting arm may, for example, be elastically deformable, such that deformation of the connecting arm can elastically deflect the trigger leg. The at least one connecting arm may be integrally formed with the contact element or the support leg. However, the at least one connecting arm may also be supported on the contact element, spring element, or housing in a non-integral configuration.

[0038] In one design, the at least one connecting arm has at least one bend, at which the at least one connecting arm bends about a depth direction perpendicular to the pivot plane of the clamping leg. For example, the at least one connecting arm can bend at the at least one bend at an angle greater than 90° about the depth direction. If the connecting arm has, for example, two bends, the connecting arm can bend at these bends, for example, in opposite directions of rotation about the depth direction. This makes the at least one connecting arm S-shaped or zigzag-shaped.

[0039] In one design, viewed along the insertion direction, the at least one bend is located on the far side of the first wall section. Therefore, the bend is not covered by the first wall section.

[0040] In one design, viewed along the depth direction, the latching element is arranged on the support leg or contact element next to the connecting arm. For example, the latching element and the triggering element extend from the support leg, with the connecting arm of the triggering element and the latching element arranged side by side on the support leg.

[0041] In one design, the trigger element has two connecting arms, preferably spaced apart from each other along the depth direction. Here, viewed along the depth direction, a snap-fit ​​element is arranged, for example, between these two connecting arms. The connecting arms are, for example, elastically deformable to allow for elastic deflection of the trigger leg. A snap-fit ​​element is arranged between the connecting arms, extending from the support leg or from a first wall section of the contact element.

[0042] In one design, the trigger element has an actuating section for actuating the latching element. When the electrical wire is inserted, the trigger element is moved, actuating the latching element via the actuating section, thereby releasing the clamping legs from engagement. The actuating section, for example, surrounds the latching element such that during the deflection motion of the trigger element, force is transmitted through the actuating section to the latching element, thereby moving the latching element out of the engaged position.

[0043] For example, the actuating section has a hook section surrounding 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 surrounds the locking element, such that when the trigger element deflects, it actuates the locking element to release it from engagement with the clamping leg.

[0044] In another design, the action section can form a slit opening, in which the latching element is located, such that the latching element is driven through the action section when the triggering element moves.

[0045] If the trigger element has two connecting arms, the action section can extend between the connecting arms, for example, in the form of a bracket.

[0046] In one design, the trigger element itself is elastically deformable. The trigger element can be formed, for example, from spring steel. Specifically, the trigger element can elastically deform within one or more regions of the connecting arm, and thereby elastically displace.

[0047] In one design, the trigger element and spring element are integrally formed and attached to the support leg, wherein the trigger element is elastically movable relative to the support leg. Therefore, the trigger element and spring element are integrally formed and attached to the support leg, preferably at the end of the support leg away from the bending section.

[0048] In one design, the trigger element and the contact element are integrally formed and are elastically movable on the contact element. Therefore, in this design, the trigger element is formed on the contact element and is elastically movable relative to the contact element. For example, in this design, the trigger element may be formed on a support section of the contact element extending transversely to the insertion direction, wherein the trigger element is connected to the support section, for example, via a connecting arm, and can elastically deflect relative to the support section through elastic deformation at the connecting arm.

[0049] In one design, the trigger element is not molded as a single piece with the housing, contact element, and spring element. Therefore, the trigger element is manufactured as a separate component and, for example, arranged on the contact element or housing for assembly with terminals, allows the trigger element to move within the terminals so that, upon insertion of an electrical wire, it actuates the latching element, thereby releasing the clamping leg from its release position.

[0050] In one design, the trigger element is supported on the contact element by a support end. In this design, the trigger element is manufactured as a separate component, but is connected to the contact element via the support end, allowing the trigger element to move relative to the contact element so that it can act on the latching element and release the clamping legs from the release position when the wire is inserted and moved from its initial position.

[0051] For example, the contact element has a support section on which the support end of the trigger element rests. The support section can be formed on the contact element as a tab, for example, on a face section of the contact element, or on the base of the contact element. For example, the support end surrounds the support section, thereby establishing the fixation of the trigger element on the contact element.

[0052] In one design, the support end of the trigger element rests on a first wall section of the contact element, and the support leg of the spring element also rests on the first wall section. For example, the support end occupies an intermediate position between the first wall section and the support leg. In this case, the support end can be formed, for example, as a surface section located between the first wall section and the support leg. The support leg is fixed to the first wall section, for example, by riveting, wherein the support end is also fixed relative to the first wall section because it occupies an intermediate position between the first wall section and the support leg.

[0053] In one design, the trigger element is torque-resistantly supported on the contact element with a support end. Here, the trigger element is preferably elastically deformable, particularly in the connecting arm region that connects the trigger leg to the support end. If the conductor acts on the trigger leg when inserted into the plug opening, deformation occurs on the trigger element, but the support end remains fixed in position relative to the contact element.

[0054] In one design, the trigger element is supported in a manner that allows it to pivot 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 latching element, thereby releasing the clamping leg from its engagement in the release position.

[0055] For example, the triggering element has a shaft element that is supported in a manner that allows it to pivot relative to the housing. For example, a support portion on the housing on which the shaft element is supported is formed.

[0056] In one design, the latching element has a latching arm that forms a latching section for engaging with a clamping leg. The latching arm can be sized such that the latching element is elastically deformable on the latching arm and thus elastically movable relative to the supporting leg. The latching section on the latching arm can be formed, for example, by a bent end in the form of a latch hook or by a latching edge. In the released position, the clamping leg engages with the latching section and is thereby held in position by the latching element.

[0057] In one design, the clamping leg has a snap-fit ​​section for engaging with a snap-fit ​​element in the release position. In one design, the snap-fit ​​section of the clamping leg may be specifically formed by a snap-fit ​​opening on the clamping leg, into which the snap-fit ​​element engages in the release position. In another design, the snap-fit ​​section of the clamping leg may be formed by a snap-fit ​​tab on the clamping leg, which protrudes from the clamping leg and engages with the snap-fit ​​element when the clamping leg is in the release position. In this case, the snap-fit ​​element may, for example, have a snap-fit ​​opening into which the snap-fit ​​tab of the clamping leg engages in the release position.

[0058] The spring element is preferably formed as a component with its own elastic force, for example, it is made of spring steel.

[0059] Spring elements can be formed, for example, into stamped and bent parts.

[0060] In one design, the contact element has a contact section for plug-in electrical contact with a corresponding mating contact element. The contact section can be configured as a contact socket or a contact pin, and is used to establish a plug-in connection with the corresponding mating contact element. If the contact section is formed by a contact pin, the mating contact is preferably formed by a contact socket. Conversely, if the contact section is formed by a contact socket, the mating contact is configured as a contact pin.

[0061] The contact section can protrude longitudinally from the contact cavity along the insertion direction, so that the contact section can be plugged into the corresponding mating contact element along the insertion direction.

[0062] In one design, the terminal block has an operating element displaceable on the housing, which can be moved in the operating direction to move the clamping leg to the release position. The operating element can be designed, for example, as a push button (Drücker), and can be pressed into the housing by user operation to act on the clamping leg and move it toward the release position.

[0063] The operating direction can be, for example, along the plugging direction. In order to connect to the terminal block, the wire needs to be inserted into the plugging opening of the housing along this plugging direction.

[0064] In other design schemes, the operating element can also pivot relative to the housing.

[0065] As an alternative to the operating element, the clamping legs can also be deflected by a special tool, such as a screwdriver. Attached Figure Description

[0066] The concept upon which this invention is based will be explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1AA view of one embodiment of a terminal block is shown, the terminal block having a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 1B The diagram shows a view of the terminal block in one position, in which the clamping leg of the spring element is in the released position; Figure 2A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 2B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 3A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position. Figure 3B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position; Figure 4A A view of another embodiment of a terminal block is shown, which has a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 4B The diagram shows a view of the terminal block in one position, in which the clamping leg of the spring element is in the released position; Figure 5A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 5B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 6A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position. Figure 6B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position; 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 The diagram shows a view of the terminal block in one position, in which the clamping leg of the spring element is in the released position; Figure 8A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 8B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 9A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position. Figure 9B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position; Figure 10A A view of another embodiment of a terminal block is shown, which has a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 10B The diagram shows a view of the terminal block in one position, in which the clamping leg of the spring element is in the released position; Figure 11A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 11B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 12A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position. Figure 12B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position; Figure 13A A view of another embodiment of a terminal block is shown, which has a contact element, a spring element, and a trigger element; Figure 13B The diagram shows a view of the terminal block in one position, in which the clamping leg of the spring element is in the released position; Figure 14A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 14B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the clamping position. Figure 15A A perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position; and Figure 15B Another perspective view of the contact element, spring element, and trigger element is shown, with the clamping leg in the released position.

[0067] Specific design scheme

[0068] Figure 1A , 1BViews 3A and 3B show an embodiment of a terminal block 1 having a housing 10 having a plug opening 100 formed thereon for inserting an electrical wire 2.

[0069] Terminal 1 is configured for spring-loaded connection. Housing 10 defines a receiving space 101 into which the wire 2, with its insulation stripped end 20, is introduced when inserted into the insertion opening 100 along the insertion direction E. In the connected state, the wire 2, with its insulation stripped end 20, is located within 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.

[0070] The contact element 11 of the terminal 1 has a contact cavity 110 and a contact section 114 protruding from the contact cavity 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the contact section 114 is formed by a contact socket that is inserted into a corresponding insertion section 103 of the housing 10 and can be plugged into a corresponding mating contact of the mating plug-in connector 4 in the insertion direction E.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the contact element 11 is integrally produced as a stamped and bent part.

[0072] In a cross-section transverse to the insertion direction E, the contact cavity 110 has a U-shaped shape and is formed by a base 111 and wall sections 112 and 113 connected thereto and bent toward the base 111.

[0073] Wall sections 112 and 113 bend toward base 111 around a bending axis extending longitudinally along the insertion direction E, and extend in mutually parallel planes.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the spring element 12 is supported on the wall section 112 of the contact cavity 110 by a support leg 121. The clamping leg 120 is connected to the support leg 121 by a curved section 122 providing a bending hinge. The curved section 122 provides a bending radius through which the clamping leg 120 can elastically pivot relative to the support leg 121 about a pivot axis approximately concentric with the curved section 122.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the support leg 121 is arranged on the outer side of the wall section 112. In particular, the support leg 121 is arranged on the side of the wall section 112 opposite to the wall section 113 and is fixed to the wall section 112.

[0076] With the compact configuration of terminal block 1, this allows the support leg 121 to be fixed to the contact element 11 at a location farther from the wall section 113, specifically on the wall section 112. The curved section 122 can therefore be designed to have a relatively large bending radius when the clamping leg 120 is moved from the clamping position ( Figure 1A and Figure 2A , 2B ) Elastic deflection to the release position ( Figure 1B and Figure 3A , 3B When the spring element 12 bends, it mainly bends within the region of the bending section.

[0077] like Figure 1A As shown, this allows, for example, the curved section 122 to be linearly connected to the flat-extending support leg 121 without creating bending or curvature at the transition between the support leg 121 and the curved section 122. Therefore, the spring element can be constructed in a relatively simple and space-saving manner.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the spring element 12 is housed within the contact cavity 110, allowing the clamping leg 120 to move within the contact cavity 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 thereby into the contact cavity 110, reaching a midpoint between the clamping leg 120 and the wall section 113 of the contact cavity 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.

[0079] The clamping leg 120 can be elastically deflected toward the support leg 121, in particular in such a way that the clamping leg 120 clamps the wire 2 connected to the terminal 1 in the clamping position and presses it into contact with the wall section 113 of the contact element 11 under the action of the elastic preload.

[0080] Terminal 1 has an operating element 14, which forms a head 140 and a lever 141 extending from the head 140. The operating element 14 is received in a corresponding operating opening 102 of the housing 10 and is movable relative to the housing 10 between a non-operating position and an operating position along the operating direction B. Here, the operating element 14 acts on the clamping leg 120 via the lever 141 so that when moved in the direction of the operating position, it is transferred from the clamping position to the position such that... Figure 1B The release position shown is in which the area inside the contact cavity 110 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.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 has a trigger element 13 forming a trigger leg 130 that extends substantially transversely to the insertion direction E in an initial, unloaded position, thereby extending into the contact cavity 110 into a region aligned with the insertion opening 100 along the insertion direction E, such as from... Figure 1A , 1B As can be seen in the text.

[0082] The trigger element 13 is manufactured as a separate component and is supported on the wall section 112 of the contact element 11 by a support end 133 formed by a surface segment. The support leg 121 of the spring element 12 is also fixed to this wall section. (See from...) Figure 1A , 1B Side view and Figure 2A , 2B As can be seen in perspective views 3A and 3B, the support end 133 occupies the middle position between the support leg 121 and the wall section 112, so that the support end 133 is held against torque.

[0083] 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 interacting with the wire 2.

[0084] 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 to a wall section 112. The connecting arm 131 itself is elastically deformable, so that when the connecting arm 131 is bent, the trigger element 13 can elastically move relative to the contact element 11.

[0085] Wall sections 112 and 113 extend from the base 111 in a depth direction T perpendicular to the insertion direction E. Based on the depth direction T, the trigger element 13 is arranged next to the base 111.

[0086] The insertion direction E and the lateral direction Q, which is perpendicular to both the insertion direction E and the depth direction T, together unfold the pivot plane, allowing the clamping leg 120 and the trigger element 13 to elastically deflect along this pivot plane.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the support leg 121 of the spring element 12 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 through the fixing opening 123, for example by riveting.

[0088] A latching element 15 is arranged on the support leg 121 of the spring element 12, which has a latching arm 150 and a latching section 151 formed by the hook-shaped end of the latching arm 150. The latching element 15 extends from the support leg 121 as a tab.

[0089] The trigger element 13 has an action section 132 formed as a tab on the trigger leg 130, which surrounds the snap-fit ​​element 15 with a hook section 134 at the end away from the trigger leg 130.

[0090] In such Figure 1B and 3A As shown in Figure 3B, the clamping leg 120 is in the released position, where it engages with the latching element 15 and thereby holds its position relative to the support leg 121. In the released position, the latching element 15 extends into the latching opening 124 on the clamping leg 120 via a hook-shaped latching section 151, thereby holding the clamping leg 120 in the released position, as shown in Figure 3B. Figure 3A and 3B As shown.

[0091] If as Figure 1B When the wire 2 is inserted into the insertion opening 100 of the terminal block 1, the wire 2, with its end 20, contacts the trigger leg 130 within the receiving space 101 and displaces the trigger element 13, thereby actuating the locking element 15 and releasing the engagement between the locking element 15 and the clamping leg 120. The clamping leg 120 then releases from its released position and engages in a clamping action with the inserted wire 2, clamping the wire 2 to the wall section 113 of the contact cavity 110 of the contact element 11, thereby electrically connecting it to the contact element 11.

[0092] Therefore, when the wire 2 is inserted, the clamping leg 120 automatically releases, so that the clamping leg 120 no longer remains in the released position. Due to the spring preload of the spring element 12, the clamping leg 120 moves towards the clamping position and clamps the inserted wire 2 to the wall section 113 of the contact element 11 inside the contact cavity 110, so that the wire 2 is electrically connected to the contact element 11 and mechanically locked to the terminal 1.

[0093] If the connected wire 2 needs 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 as to move the clamping leg 120 to the release position and thereby release the wire 2.

[0094] By fixing the trigger element 13 to the contact element 12 and molding the snap-fit ​​element 15 in one piece onto the support leg 121 of the spring element 12, the spring force connection assembly of the terminal block 1 can be assembled in a simple manner.

[0095] The latching element 15 can deflect substantially independently of the trigger element 13. Specifically, when the clamping leg 120 is moved to the release position, the clamping leg 120 can move onto the latching section 151 of the latching element 15, thereby slightly disengaging the latching element 15 from its relaxed initial position without actuating the trigger element 13. Therefore, the latching element 15 can move independently of the trigger element 13 during engagement.

[0096] Conversely, if the trigger element 13 is displaced due to the action of the wire 2, the latching element 15 will be actuated due to the coupling through the action section 132. As a result, the engagement between the latching element 15 and the clamping leg 120 is released, and the clamping leg 120 is thus released from the release position.

[0097] When the clamping leg 120 is in the released position, the clamping leg 120 is tensioned relative to the support leg 121. Here, a force flow exists inside the spring element 12 via the snap-fit ​​element 15. Therefore, the tension force on the spring element 12 is captured by the spring element 12, and no significant resultant force acts on the housing 10. Therefore, even if the terminal 1 remains in the state where the clamping leg 120 is tensioned in the released position for a long time, there will be no damage or even destruction to the housing 10 due to material fatigue.

[0098] In such Figure 4A , 4B In another embodiment shown in 6A and 6B, the trigger element 13 is manufactured as a separate component and is pivotally supported relative to the housing 10 via a shaft element 135. In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger element 13 is configured as a pivotable rod having a trigger leg 130 and a connecting arm 133 connecting the trigger leg 130 to the shaft element 135.

[0099] Compared to the previously described embodiments, in this embodiment, the trigger element 13 itself is not elastically deformable, but is constructed as a rigid, substantially non-deformable component, for example, made of plastic. Due to this pivotable support, the trigger element 13 can move easily and flexibly relative to the housing 10.

[0100] The spring element 12, with a snap-fit ​​element 15 formed thereon, has the same structure as the previously described embodiment. The operating element 14 is substantially the same in function as the previously described embodiment.

[0101] By operating the operating element 14, the clamping leg 120 of the spring element 12 can be moved to the release position when the electrical wire 2 is inserted to connect to the terminal 1, such as from... Figures 4A to 4B The transition is shown. In the released position, the clamping leg 120 engages with the snap-on element 15 through the snap-on opening 124 on the clamping leg 120 via the snap-on section 151, and thus maintains its position relative to the housing 10.

[0102] When the wire 2 is inserted, the wire contacts the trigger leg 130 of the trigger element 13, causing the trigger element 13 to pivot about the pivot axis defined by the shaft element 135. During this process, the latching element 15 is driven by the actuating section 132, causing the latching section 151 to disengage from the latching opening 124 of the clamping leg 120, thereby releasing the clamping leg 120 from the release position.

[0103] For example, a slit opening is formed in the actuating section 132, in which the latching element 15 is received by a latching arm 150. Thus, when the triggering element 13 pivots, the latching element 15 deflects on the support leg 121, thereby releasing the engagement with the clamping leg 120.

[0104] Apart from the design of the trigger element 13, the described embodiment is functionally essentially the same as the previously described embodiment in other respects, and therefore the foregoing related descriptions are supplementarily mentioned for reference.

[0105] In such Figure 7A , 7B In another embodiment shown in 10A and 10B, the trigger element 13 and the spring element 12 are integrally formed and connected to one end of the support leg 121 away from the bending section 122. The trigger element 13 forms a trigger leg 130, which, in the initial unloaded position, extends substantially transversely to the insertion direction E and extends into the area inside the contact cavity 110 aligned with the insertion opening 100 along the insertion direction E, as is particularly evident from... Figure 7A , 7B visible.

[0106] The trigger element 13 is elastically movable relative to the support leg 121, 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 interacting with the wire 2.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger element 13 has two connecting arms 131, through which the trigger leg 130 is connected to the support leg 121. The connecting arms 131 are formed in the shape of strips and transition to the support leg 121 at their ends 133. The connecting arms 131 themselves are elastically deformable, such that when the connecting arms 131 are bent, the trigger element 13 can elastically move relative to the support leg 121.

[0108] The connecting arms 131 are spaced apart from each other along the depth direction T. Here, the connecting arms 131 are bent at two bending positions at angles greater than 90° in opposite bending directions, such that the connecting arms 131... Figure 7A , 7B In the side view, it appears S-shaped or zigzag-shaped.

[0109] A latching element 15 is arranged between the connecting arms 131 of the trigger element 13, and according to... Figure 1A , 1B Similar to embodiments 3A and 3B, it has a snap-fit ​​arm 150 and a snap-fit ​​section 151 formed by the hook-shaped end of the snap-fit ​​arm 150. The snap-fit ​​element 15 extends from the support leg 121 as a tab and transitions to the support leg 121.

[0110] A bracket-shaped action section 132 extends between the connecting arms 131 of the trigger element 13, and the action section surrounds the snap-fit ​​element 15.

[0111] In such Figure 7B and 9A The clamping leg 120 shown in Figure 9B is in the released position, where it engages with the latching element 15 and is thus held in position relative to the support leg 121. In the released position, the latching element 15 engages with the latching opening 124 on the clamping leg 120 in a hook-shaped latching section 151, thereby holding the clamping leg 120 in the released position.

[0112] If the wire 2 is inserted into the insertion opening 100 of the terminal block 1, the wire 2, with its end 20, touches the trigger leg 130 within the receiving space 101, and the trigger element 13 is displaced within the housing 10, causing the latching element 15 to be activated, thereby releasing the latching element 15 from the clamping leg 120. The clamping leg 120 then releases from the released position and engages in clamping action with the inserted wire 2, clamping the wire 2 to the wall section 113 of the contact cavity 110 of the contact element 11, and thus electrically connecting it to the contact element 11.

[0113] Apart from the design of the trigger element 13, the described embodiment is functionally basically the same as the previous one. Figure 1A , 1B The embodiments described in 3A and 3B are the same, therefore the foregoing related descriptions are supplementarily mentioned for reference.

[0114] In such Figure 10A , 10B In another embodiment shown in 12A and 12B, the trigger element 13 and the contact element 11 are integrally formed and connected to the support section 115 of the contact element, which extends perpendicular to the insertion direction E and is bent relative to the wall section 113.

[0115] The trigger element 13 has a strip-shaped connecting arm 131, through which the trigger leg 130 is integrally connected to the support section 115 of the contact element 11. The connecting arm 131 itself is elastically deformable, so that when bending occurs at the connecting arm 131, the trigger element 13 can elastically move relative to the contact element 11.

[0116] As in the previously described embodiments, a snap-fit ​​element 15 is formed on the support leg 121 of the spring element 12, having a snap-fit ​​arm 150 and a snap-fit ​​section 151 formed by the hook-shaped end of the snap-fit ​​arm 150. The snap-fit ​​element 15 extends from the support leg 121 as a tab and transitions to the support leg 121.

[0117] The trigger element 13 has an action section 132 formed as a tab on the trigger leg 130, which surrounds the snap-fit ​​element 15 by a hook section 134 on the end away from the trigger leg 130.

[0118] exist Figure 10B and 12A In the released position of the clamping leg 120 shown in Figure 12B, the clamping leg 120 engages with the latching element 15 and thereby holds its position relative to the support leg 121. In the released position, the latching element 15 engages with the latching opening 124 on the clamping leg 120 via a hook-shaped latching section 151, thereby holding the clamping leg 120 in the released position, as shown in Figure 12B. Figure 12A and 12B As shown.

[0119] If as Figure 10B When the wire 2 is inserted into the insertion opening 100 of the terminal block 1, the wire 2, with its end 20, touches the trigger leg 130 within the receiving space 101, displacing the trigger element 13. This causes the locking element 15 to be activated, thereby releasing the engagement between the locking element 15 and the clamping leg 120. The clamping leg 120 is thus released from the released position and engages in clamping action with the inserted wire 2, clamping the wire 2 to the wall section 113 of the contact cavity 110 of the contact element 11, thereby electrically connecting it to the contact element 11.

[0120] Apart from the design of the trigger element 13, the described embodiment is functionally basically the same as the previous one. Figure 1A , 1B The embodiments described in 3A and 3B are the same, therefore the foregoing related descriptions are supplementarily mentioned for reference.

[0121] exist Figure 13A , 13B Another embodiment shown in 15A and 15B differs from that shown in the embodiment according to [reference to previous embodiments]. Figure 10A , 10B The embodiments up to 12A and 12B are the same. This embodiment is the same as... Figure 10A , 10B The only difference between embodiments 12A and 12B is that the snap-fit ​​element 15 is not formed on the support leg 121 of the spring element 12, but is formed on the wall section 112 of the contact element 11. Therefore, both the trigger element 13 and the snap-fit ​​element 15 are formed in one piece with the contact element 11.

[0122] In addition, this embodiment is functionally combined with the previous one. Figure 10A , 10B The embodiments described in 12A and 12B are the same, therefore the relevant descriptions above are supplementarily mentioned for reference.

[0123] In all embodiments, the support leg 121 is arranged and fixed to the outside of the wall section 112 of the contact element 11. Therefore, the support leg 121 is located on the side of the wall section 112 away from the wall section 113, that is, on the far side, which allows the bending section 122 to be designed with a relatively large bending radius when the overall structure of the terminal block 1 is small.

[0124] The concept upon which this invention is based is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but can also be implemented in other ways.

[0125] The actuating element can be linearly sliding or pivotable and can be operated to move the clamping legs to the release position. Other terminal block designs are also possible, in which the clamping legs are actuated without the use of an actuating element, and instead actuated by a special tool such as a screwdriver.

[0126] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0127] 1. Terminal block

[0128] 10. Shell

[0129] 100mm plug-in opening

[0130] 101 Capacity

[0131] 102 Operating opening

[0132] 103 Plug-in Section

[0133] 11 Contact elements

[0134] 110 Contact cavity

[0135] 111 Base

[0136] Sections 112 and 113

[0137] 114 Contact Section

[0138] 115 Support Section

[0139] 12 Clamping Springs

[0140] 120. Clasp your legs together.

[0141] 121 Supporting Leg

[0142] 122 Curved Section

[0143] 123 Fixed opening

[0144] 124 Buckle Opening

[0145] 13 Triggering elements

[0146] 130 Trigger Leg

[0147] 131 Connecting Arm

[0148] 132 Functional Section

[0149] 133 Support end

[0150] 134 Hook Section

[0151] 135 Pivot axis (shaft element)

[0152] 14 Operating elements

[0153] 140 heads

[0154] 141. Bar section

[0155] 15. Clip-on components

[0156] 150 buckle arm

[0157] 151 Clip Section

[0158] 2. Wire

[0159] 20. Wire end

[0160] B Operation Direction

[0161] E Connection direction

[0162] Q. Horizontal direction

[0163] T represents the depth direction.

Claims

1. A terminal block (1) for connecting electrical wires (2), having 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 (1). Contact elements (11) arranged on the housing (10) are 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) for acting on an electrical conductor (2), wherein the clamping leg (120) is elastically movable relative to the support leg (121) to a clamping position and a released position, and is configured to act on the electrical conductor (2) in the clamping position to contact the contact element (11). The latching element (15) and the clamping leg (120) are capable of engaging with the latching element to lock in the release position, and A trigger element (13), which interacts with the electrical wire (2) when inserted into the insertion opening (100), is capable of being moved out of its initial position to release the clamping leg (120) from its release position. Its features are, The contact element (11) has a first wall section (112) on which a support leg (112) is supported, and a second wall section (113) extending parallel to the first wall section (112) for electrical contact with an electrical conductor (2), wherein the support leg (121) is arranged on the side of the first wall section (112) opposite to the second wall section (113).

2. The terminal block (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support leg (121) is fixed to the first wall section (112).

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 contact element (111) has a base, wherein a first wall section (112) and a second wall section (113) are arranged at right angles to the base (111), respectively.

5. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​element (15) and the spring element (12) are integrally formed and arranged on the support leg (121), so that the snap-fit ​​element (15) can move elastically relative to the support leg (121).

6. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​element (15) and the contact element (11) are molded in one piece and are elastically movable on the contact element (11).

7. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The clamping leg (120) is connected to the support leg (121) via a curved section (122), wherein a snap-fit ​​element (15) is arranged at the end of the support leg (121) away from the curved section (122), or on the edge of the first wall section (112) away from the curved section (122).

8. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is configured to actuate the latching element (15) when removed from the initial position to release the clamping leg (120) from the release position.

9. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, When the latching element (15) engages with the clamping leg (120), it can move independently of the triggering element (13).

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 means of an insertion plug opening (100), wherein a triggering element (13) is arranged in the receiving space (101) to interact with the electrical wire (2).

11. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has a trigger leg (130) for interacting with the electrical wire (2).

12. The terminal block (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The trigger leg (130) extends laterally to the insertion direction (E) at the initial position of the trigger element (13) so as to interact with the electrical wire (2) upon insertion.

13. The terminal block (1) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has at least one connecting arm (131), and the trigger leg (130) is connected via the connecting arm to the support leg (121) of the spring element (12), to the contact element (11), or to the housing (10).

14. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has an action section (132) for driving the latching element (15).

15. The terminal block (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The functional section (132) has a hook section (134) surrounding the snap-fit ​​element (15).

16. The terminal block (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has two connecting arms (131), and the trigger leg (130) is connected to the support leg (121) of the spring element (12), the contact element (11), or the housing (10) through these two connecting arms. The action section (132) extends between the connecting arms such that the action section (132) surrounds the snap-fit ​​element (15).

17. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) itself is capable of elastic deformation.

18. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) and the spring element (12) are integrally formed and attached to the support leg (121), wherein the trigger element (13) is elastically movable relative to the support leg (121).

19. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) and the contact element (11) are molded in one piece and are elastically movable on the contact element (11).

20. The terminal block (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is formed on the support section (115) of the contact element (15) extending transversely to the insertion direction (E).

21. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is not molded as a single piece with the housing (10), the contact element (11) and the spring element (12).

22. The terminal block (1) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) is supported on the contact element (11) by the support end (133).

23. The terminal block (1) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The support end (133) of the trigger element (13) is supported on the first wall section (112) of the contact element (11), and the support leg (121) of the spring element (12) is also supported on the first wall section.

24. The terminal block (1) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The support end (133) occupies the middle position between the wall section (112) and the support leg (121).

25. The terminal block (1) according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that, The trigger element (11) is supported on the contact element (11) with a support end (133) to prevent torque.

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

27. The terminal block (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that, The trigger element (13) has a shaft element (135) that is supported in a manner that allows it to pivot relative to the housing (10).

28. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​element (15) has a snap-fit ​​arm (150) that forms a snap-fit ​​section (151) for engaging with the clamping leg (120).

29. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The clamping leg (120) has a snap-fit ​​section for engaging with the snap-fit ​​element (15) in the release position.

30. The terminal block (1) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The latching section is formed by a latching opening (124) on the clamping leg (120), and when the clamping leg (120) is in the released position, the latching element (15) engages in the latching opening.

31. 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 plug-in electrical contact with a corresponding mating contact.

32. The terminal block (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It has an operating element (14) that can be displaced on the housing (10), the operating element being adjustable along the operating direction (B) from the unoperated position to the operating position to move the clamping leg (120) to the release position.

Images