Rail system with a support element

Abstract

Support element (200) which can be connected to a rail arrangement (104) in order to be removable and adjustable, the support element (200) comprising: an electrical connector (210, 210') that is adjustable to a first position and a second position, the electrical connector (210, 210') comprising: a first contact (220A) configured to engage a first conductor (150A) of the busbar assembly (104); and a prestressing element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C); wherein the first contact (220A) can be engaged with the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position; wherein the first contact (220A) is arranged at a distance from the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the second position; and wherein the preloading element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) is configured to preload the first contact (220A) rotatingly into engagement with the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position, wherein the electrical connector (210, 210') has a connector pivot axis (216, 216'); the first contact (220A) protrudes from the electrical connector (210, 210'); the first contact (220A) has a contact rotation axis (228, 228') that is essentially perpendicular to the connector rotation axis (216, 216'); and the first contact (220A) is rotatable around the contact rotation axis (228, 228').

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a rail system and / or support elements configured for connecting to and removing from rails, comprising support elements and rails that can be used, for example, in connection with vehicle seats. BACKGROUND

[0002] This background description is provided below only to clarify the context. Therefore, any aspect of this background description, unless otherwise qualified as prior art, is neither expressly nor implicitly recognized as prior art in relation to the present disclosure.

[0003] Some rail systems may have support elements that may not provide sufficient functionality, are complicated to operate and / or assemble, and / or do not operate efficiently. For example, some support elements may not provide a sufficient connection between an electrical contact and a corresponding conductor on a rail.

[0004] The foregoing discussion serves only to illustrate examples from the present field and does not constitute a denial of the scope of application.

[0005] DE 10 2018 211 055 A1 relates to a locking and contacting system for electrically connecting a vehicle electrical system to a removable vehicle seat or seating system.

[0006] DE 10 2019 206 304 A1 shows an anchoring module of equipment such as a seat for removable seating arrangements in a vehicle, an anchor sliding part of this equipment and an anchor arrangement of this equipment. TECHNICAL TASK AND SOLUTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Based on the prior art, there is a desire for solutions / options that minimize or eliminate one or more challenges or shortcomings of support elements configured for connecting to and removing from rails. This problem is solved by a support element with the features of claim 1 or a rail system with the features of claim 11. SUMMARY

[0008] In embodiments, a support element is detachably and adjustableally connectable to a rail assembly. The support element comprises an electrical connector, a first contact, and a preloading element. The electrical connector is adjustable to a first position and a second position. The first contact is connected to the electrical connector and configured to engage a first conductor of the rail assembly. The first contact can be brought into engagement with the first conductor when the electrical connector is in the first position. The first contact is positioned at a distance from the first conductor when the electrical connector is in the second position. The preloading element is configured to rotate the first contact into engagement with the first conductor when the electrical connector is in the first position. The electrical connector has a connector pivot axis.The first contact protrudes from the electrical connector. The first contact has a contact rotation axis that is essentially perpendicular to the connector's rotation axis. The first contact can rotate about this contact rotation axis.

[0009] In embodiments, a rail system comprises a rail assembly and a support element. The rail assembly includes a first conductor. The rail assembly comprises a rail and an insulator. The first conductor is connected to the rail via the insulator. The support element is detachably and adjustableally connected to the rail assembly. The support element comprises an electrical connector, a first contact, and a tensioning element. The electrical connector is adjustable to a first and a second position. The first contact is connected to the electrical connector and is configured to engage the first conductor of the rail assembly. The first contact can be brought into engagement with the first conductor when the electrical connector is in the first position. The first contact is positioned at a distance from the first conductor when the electrical connector is in the second position.The preloading element is configured to preload the first contact by rotating it into engagement with the first conductor when the electrical connector is in the first position. The electrical connector has a connector rotation axis. The first contact protrudes from the electrical connector. The first contact has a contact rotation axis that is substantially perpendicular to the connector rotation axis. The first contact is rotatable about the contact rotation axis.

[0010] The foregoing and other possible aspects, features, details, usefulness and / or advantages of examples / implementations of the present disclosure will become clear upon reading the following description and reviewing the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] While the claims are not limited to any particular illustration, an understanding of various aspects can be gained through the discussion of different examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated or omitted to better illustrate and explain an innovative aspect of an example. Furthermore, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting and are not restricted to the exact shape and configuration shown in the drawings or disclosed in the detailed description below. Exemplary illustrations are described in detail with reference to the drawings as follows: Fig. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view that generally shows an embodiment of a rail system according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view that generally shows an embodiment of a rail according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view that generally shows an embodiment of a conductor according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view that generally shows an embodiment of an insulator according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view that generally shows an embodiment of an electrical connector in a first position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6A is a front cross-sectional view showing a general embodiment of an electrical connector in a first position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6B is a side view, generally representing the embodiment of an electrical connector of Fig. 6A is shown. Fig. 6C is a perspective view that generally shows the embodiment of the electrical connector of Fig. Figure 6A shows the one that is connected to a support element. Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 are top views showing general embodiments of electrical contacts according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. 9A and Fig. Figure 9B illustrates general embodiments of an electrical contact in a first rotational position and a second rotational position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. 10A and Fig. Figure 10B shows general embodiments of an electrical contact in a first rotational position or a second rotational position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 11 illustrates in general an orientation of an embodiment of an electrical contact in a first rotational position and a second rotational position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 12 is a view which generally shows an embodiment of an electrical connector and a conductor when the electrical connector is in a second position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. 13 is a view that generally shows the electrical connector and the conductor from Fig. Figure 12 shows when the electrical connector is rotated from a second position to a first position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. 14A-14C are views that generally refer to the electrical connector and the conductor of Fig. 12 show when the electrical connector is in a first position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 15A is a view that generally shows an embodiment of an electrical connector and electrical contacts when the electrical connector is located between a first position and a second position. Fig. 15B and Fig. Figure 15C shows a general embodiment of an electrical connector and electrical contacts when the electrical connector is in a second position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figures 16A-16C are views showing general embodiments of an electrical connector and electrical contacts when the electrical connector is in a first position according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 17A is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of an electrical contact which engages with a conductor according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 17B is a perspective view which generally shows an embodiment of a plurality of electrical contacts which engage with corresponding conductors according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 18A is a side view showing the general rotational movement of an embodiment of an electrical contact according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 18B is a perspective view showing in general an embodiment of an electrical connector with a plurality of electrical contacts and embodiments of conductors according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 19 is a view that generally illustrates an embodiment of an electrical connector comprising an adaptation section according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. 20A is a view which generally represents an embodiment of a support element according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. 20B is a view which generally shows an embodiment of a slider according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. 21A and Fig. 21B are views which generally represent an embodiment of an electrical connector comprising an adaptation section in a second position, according to the teaching of the present disclosure. Fig. 22 and Fig. Figure 23 are views that generally illustrate an embodiment of an electrical connector comprising an adaptation section between a second position and a first position according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 24 is a view which generally shows an embodiment of an electrical connector comprising an adaptation section in a first position according to the teachings of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Extensive reference will now be made to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Although the present disclosure is described in connection with embodiments and / or examples, it is not limited to these embodiments and / or examples. On the contrary, the present disclosure includes alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

[0013] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a rail system 100 can comprise a support arrangement 102 and / or a rail arrangement 104. A rail arrangement 104 can be connected to and / or arranged within a mounting surface 106 (for example, the floor of a vehicle 108) and can facilitate the selective connection of one or more support arrangements to the mounting surface 106. An arrangement of rails 104 can facilitate the adjustment of one or more support arrangements 102, for example, relative to the mounting surface 106 and / or within a vehicle 108. A support arrangement 102 and / or a rail arrangement 104 can comprise and / or be connected to an electrical system 110 (for example, of a vehicle 108), which may include a control unit 112 and / or a power source 114.

[0014] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a rail assembly 104 can comprise one or more rails 120 to which a support assembly 102 can be connected and adjusted (e.g., slidably). A rail 120 can contain one or more metallic and / or conductive materials (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.). A rail assembly 104 can comprise one or more rail sets 122, each containing one or more rails 120 that can be configured to engage with a corresponding section of a support assembly 102. Several rails 120 and / or rail sets 122 can be connected to a portion of the mounting surface 106 (e.g., a floor, wall, ceiling, etc.) and arranged side by side and / or extending parallel to one another. One or more tracks 120, 120' can be identical to and / or different from one another.The rails 120, 120' can, for example, be offset from each other in a lateral / transverse direction (e.g. in the Y direction), so that the rails 120, 120' can generally be aligned with the respective outer sides of the support assembly 102.

[0015] In embodiments such as those generally found in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, a rail 120 can be an elongated element extending in the X direction. A rail 120 can have a rail base section 124 and two rail wall sections (for example, a first rail wall section 126 and a second rail wall section 128) projecting from the rail base section 124 to form a generally U-shaped cross-section in a YZ plane (for example, in a plane perpendicular to an X direction). The U-shaped cross-section can define a rail receptacle 130 configured to receive and at least temporarily hold part of a support arrangement 102. A first rail lip 132 and a second rail lip 134 can project toward each other from the first rail wall section 126 and the second rail wall section 128, respectively. A rail opening 136 can be defined between the two rail lips 132 and 134.Part of a support arrangement 102 can be inserted into the rail opening 136 and selectively held in the rail receptacle 130. A rail 120 can include an insulator receptacle 138 configured to receive and hold an insulator 170. An insulator receptacle 138 can open substantially in a Y-direction. An insulator receptacle 138, 138' can be defined by a rail wall section 126, 128, a rail lip 132, 134, and / or one or more rail projections 140A, 140B, 140C extending from a rail wall section 126, 128. Additionally and / or alternatively, an insulator receptacle 138 can be defined by a rail wall section 126, 128, a rail lip 132, 134, and / or a base section 124 of the rail.

[0016] In embodiments as generally found in Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, a rail 120 can comprise one or more electrical conductors 150 (for example, busbars). A conductor 150 can be operationally connected to a control unit 112 and / or a power source 114. A conductor 150 can be connected to a first rail wall section 126 and / or a second rail wall section 128 of a rail 120 and / or any other section of a rail 120. A conductor 150 can be arranged and connected to a rail 120 such that the conductor 150 is able to make contact with a corresponding electrical contact 220 of a support arrangement 102 (for example, to establish an electrical connection with it). In these examples, a conductor 150 can be an elongated element extending in the X direction.A conductor 150 can have a conductor base section 152 and two conductor wall sections (for example, a conductor upper section 154 and a conductor subsection 156) projecting from the conductor base section 152 to form a generally U-shaped cross-section in a YZ plane, opening substantially in the Y direction. Examples such as are commonly found in... Fig. As shown in Figure 17B, a conductor 150 can have a single curved wall section 158 and / or generally a C-shaped cross-section. When an electrical contact 220 is engaged, a curved wall section 158 and / or a C-shaped cross-section of a conductor 150 can guide and / or bias the electrical contact 220 toward a central position where a contact area between the electrical contact 220 and the conductor 160 can be greatest, and / or can facilitate the alignment of the electrical contact 220 relative to a Y-direction and / or a Z-direction.

[0017] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. 15B, Fig. 16A, Fig. As shown in Figures 16B and / or 17B, a rail 120 can comprise a plurality of conductors 150, such as a first conductor 150A, a second conductor 150B, and / or a third conductor 150C. The first, second, and third conductors 150A, 150B, and 150C can be arranged in a stacked configuration such that, viewed from a Z-direction, they are substantially aligned and / or extend parallel to each other in the X-direction.

[0018] In embodiments such as generally in Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a rail 120 can include an insulator 170, which may, for example, comprise electrically insulating material. An insulator 170 can comprise a body / structure configured to receive and / or retain one or more conductors 150. An insulator 170 can be electrically insulating and / or configured to electrically isolate / isolate a conductor 150 from other parts of the rail 120 and / or the arrangement 104. An insulator 170 can be an elongated body that may extend in the X direction. An insulator 170 can comprise one or more insulator recesses 172 configured to receive one or more conductors 150. For example, a conductor 150 may slide and / or snap into an insulator recess 172.An insulator recess 172 can open in the Y direction and / or include a tapered opening 174 configured to engage, contact, and / or align with one or more alignment projections 282 and / or electrical contacts 220 of an electrical connector 210 with a corresponding conductor 150, and / or to facilitate the correct alignment of an electrical connector 210 and / or the electrical contact 220 in the Z direction. The insulator 170 can be located within the rail receptacle 130 and / or connected to the first rail wall section 126 and / or the second rail wall section 128 and / or another section of the rail 120. The insulator 170 can be slid and / or snapped into an insulator receptacle 138 of a rail 120.

[0019] In embodiments such as those generally shown in FIGS. p 4, 15B, 16A, 16B and / or 17B, an insulator 170 can comprise a plurality of insulator recesses 172 and / or a plurality of tapered openings 174, such as a first insulator recess 172A, a second insulator recess 172B and / or a third insulator recess 172C, each of which can have a corresponding tapered opening 174A, 174B, 174C. The first insulator recess 172A, the second insulator recess 172B and the third insulator recess 172C can be configured to receive and / or retain a first conductor 150A, a second conductor 150B and a third conductor 150C, respectively. The first, second and third insulator recesses 172A, 172B, 172C can be arranged in a stacked configuration so that they are essentially aligned when viewed from a Z direction and / or extend parallel to each other in the X direction.

[0020] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, an arrangement 104 can comprise a rail set 122 comprising a first rail 120 and a second rail 120'. The first rail 120 can comprise a rail base section 124, a first rail wall section 126, a second rail wall section 128, a first rail lip 132, a second rail lip 134, a rail receptacle 130, a rail opening 136, an insulator receptacle 138, and / or a plurality of rail projections 140A, 140B, 140C. The first rail 120 can comprise an insulator 170 with a plurality of insulator recesses 172A, 172B, 172C, and / or a plurality of electrical conductors 150A, 150B, 150C.The second rail 120' can comprise a base section 124', a first rail wall section 126', a second rail wall section 128', a first rail lip 132', a second rail lip 134', a rail receptacle 130', a rail opening 136', and / or a plurality of rail projections 140A', 140B', 140C', some or all of which may be configured in the same or a similar manner as the corresponding features of the first rail 120. The second rail 120' can comprise an insulator receptacle 138' defined by a rail wall section 126' and rail projections 140A', 140B'. The second rail 120' can comprise an insulator 170' with a single insulator recess 172', a single tapered opening 174', and a single conductor 150'.In other examples, the first rail 120 and / or the insulator 170 may have the same or a similar configuration (for example, a mirrored configuration) as the second rail 120' and / or the insulator 170', or vice versa.

[0021] In embodiments such as those generally found in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a support arrangement 102 can comprise a support element 200. A support arrangement 102 and / or a support element 200 can be adjusted and / or moved along a rail 120 and / or the arrangement 104 (for example, in an X-direction) manually and / or via an actuator (for example, an electric motor that is operationally connected to the support arrangement 102 and / or the arrangement 104). A support element 200 can be configured to be connected to and removed from a rail arrangement 104 (for example, in the Z-direction), for example, at a multitude of locations along the rail arrangement 104. A support element 200 can, for example, and without limitation, comprise, be connected to, and / or support a seat, such as a vehicle seat, and / or one or more other components (for example, consoles, cargo, luggage racks, etc.).The support element 200 and / or one or more associated components may include one or more electrical components 202 (for example, control units, power sources, seat heaters, airbags, air cushions). A support element 200 may, for example, be configured as a base, a leg, and / or a support structure.

[0022] In embodiments such as those generally found in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a support element 200 can comprise one or more electrical connectors 210, which can be configured for selective connection with a rail 120 of a rail assembly 104. An electrical connector 210 can be configured to selectively establish an electrical connection with an assembly 104 of the rail, for example, with a conductor 150 (e.g., a busbar) of the assembly 104 of the rail. The electrical connection between an electrical connector 210 and a conductor 150 can enable electrical energy and / or one or more signals (e.g., control signals, sensor data signals, etc.) to be supplied to and / or received by the support element 200 (e.g., an electrical component 202), for example, via wires 204.An electrical connector 210 (and / or a housing thereof) may, for example, comprise an electrically insulating material (e.g., plastic, polymer, etc.).

[0023] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. 5, Fig. 6A, Fig. As shown in Figures 6B and / or 6C, an electrical connector 210 can comprise a first connector section 212 and / or a second connector section 214. A first connector section 212 can be connected to the support element 200 and extend from it, for example downwards in a Z-direction. A second connector section 214 can be connected to the first connector section 212 and / or extend obliquely or perpendicularly relative to the first connector section 212. The first connector section 212 and / or the second connector section 214 can, for example, comprise an electrically insulating material (e.g., a plastic). A first connector section 212 and / or a second connector section 214 can be configured to engage with a rail 120, for example, by being inserted into a rail receptacle 130 through a rail opening 136.At least a part of an electrical connector 210 (for example, a first connector section 212) can engage in a recess 206 of a support element 200 and / or be arranged therein (see, for example, . Fig. 6C). When an electrical connector 210 engages in a recess 206, it may be movable (e.g., adjustable, displaceable, etc.) at least to some degree, generally in the Z-direction, to facilitate the alignment of an electrical contact 220 and a conductor 150. The removal of an electrical connector 210 from a recess 206 (e.g., generally in a Z-direction) may be restricted and / or prevented by one or more sections of the electrical connector 210 (e.g., an adjusting section 284) and / or by one or more sections of the support element 200, such as a projection, a flange, a stop, and / or a guide element / section 208.

[0024] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 and / or 12-18B, an electrical connector 210 can be adjusted to a first position in which one or more electrical contacts 220 of the support arrangement 102 are within a corresponding conductor (for example, in electrical contact with) a corresponding conductor 150 of the arrangement 104 (see, for example, Figure 12-18B). Fig. 1, 14A-14C, 16A-16C, 17A and 17B) and a second position in which the electrical contact(s) 220 is / are not engaged with the corresponding conductor 150 of the arrangement 104 (see, for example, Fig. 12, 15A-15C, 18A and 18B). An electrical connector 210 can rotate into the first position and / or the second position, for example about a connector rotation axis 216 (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 13) The electrical connector 210 can, for example, be rotated without restriction by an actuator of the support element 200, such as an electric motor, a lever and / or a slider 288. A slider 288 can slide in the X-direction relative to the support element 200 and the electrical connector 210 to engage / rotate the electrical connector 210.

[0025] In embodiments, a connector rotation axis 216 can extend substantially parallel to a Z-direction and / or can be a central longitudinal axis of the first connector section 212. In the first position, the first connector section 212 can extend in a direction substantially parallel to a Z-direction, the second connector section 214 can extend in a direction substantially parallel to a Y-direction, and / or the electrical connector 210 can, at least to some extent, restrict the removal of the support element 200 from the arrangement 104 generally in a Z-direction (for example, the second connector section 214 can overlap with a section of the rail 120, such as the lip 132, in the Z-direction).In the second position, the first connector section 212 can extend in a direction substantially parallel to a Z-direction, the second connector section 214 can extend in a direction substantially parallel to an X-direction, and / or the electrical connector 210 cannot substantially restrict the removal of the support element 200 from the arrangement 104.

[0026] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. 5, Fig. 6A, Fig. As shown in Figures 6B and / or 12-18B, an electrical connector 210 can comprise one or more electrical contacts 220 configured to contact / touch a corresponding conductor 150 of a rail 120. An electrical contact 220 can, for example, comprise one or more electrically conductive materials, such as aluminum, copper, and / or an alloy, among others. An electrical contact 220 can be electrically connected, at least indirectly (for example, via wires / cables 204), to an electrical component 202 of the support element 200.When the support assembly 102 is positioned on the rail 104, the adjustment (e.g., rotation) of an electrical connector 210 can adjust the position of the electrical contact 220 to (i) engage an electrical contact 220 and a corresponding conductor 150 to establish an electrical connection, and / or (ii) disengage the electrical contact 220 and the corresponding conductor 150 to disconnect and / or interrupt the electrical connection. An electrical contact 220 can remain in contact with a conductor 150 and / or remain in contact when a support element 200 is moved along a rail 120, which may cause one or more sections of an electrical contact 220 configured to contact a conductor 150 (e.g., a third surface 244 and / or a sixth surface 250) to experience wear over time (e.g., approximately 0.5 mm wear).Therefore, one or more sections of an electrical contact 220 can be configured to compensate for potential wear, for example by including additional material and / or being structured as a curved bulge (see, for example, third face 244 and / or sixth face 250).

[0027] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 5, Fig. As shown in Figures 7 and / or 8, an electrical contact 220 can have a base end 222 and a distal end 224, which is arranged opposite the base end 222. The distal end 224 of an electrical contact 220 can be located at least partially outside an electrical connector 210 and / or project from an electrical connector 210 (for example, a first connector section 212 and / or a second connector section 214). A distal end 224 of the electrical contact 220 can be configured to engage with, contact, and / or be received in a conductor 150. A distal end 224 of an electrical contact 220 may be curved / rounded and / or tapered to form a point / tip 226 (for example, tapering in the direction of a contact rotation axis 228), which may facilitate the insertion of the electrical contact 220 into a conductor 150 (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 7) A distal end 224 of an electrical contact 220 may additionally and / or alternatively comprise one or more lateral and / or radial projections / wings 230A, 230B (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 8) A base end 222 of an electrical contact 220 can be movably connected directly and / or indirectly to an electrical connector 210. A base end 222 of an electrical contact 220 can be arranged at least partially within an electrical connector 210 (for example, a first connector section 212 and / or a second connector section 214).

[0028] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. 7, Fig. As shown in Figures 8 and / or 12-16C, an electrical contact 220 can be adjustable, for example, rotatable about a contact rotation axis 228. The contact rotation axis 228 can extend substantially parallel to the Y direction when the electrical connector 210 is in the first position, and substantially parallel to the X direction when the electrical connector 210 is in the second position. The contact rotation axis 228 can extend obliquely or perpendicularly to the connector rotation axis 216.

[0029] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. As shown in 6A and / or 16A, an electrical contact 220 can move relative to the electrical connector 210 about the contact rotation axis 228 and / or, in some configurations, cannot move / tilt in a Z-direction relative to the electrical connector 210 (see, for example, electrical contact 220B). Alternatively, a contact 220 can be configured to facilitate the Z-direction alignment of itself and / or other electrical contacts 220 with a corresponding conductor 150 of the rail 120 (see, for example, electrical contacts 220A, 220C).For example, and without limitation, an electrical contact 220A, 220C can be connected to the electrical connector 210 via a ball joint connection 232, which can allow the electrical contact 220 to (i) move parallel to and / or along the contact rotation axis 228 relative to the electrical connector 210 in order to compensate for a misalignment in the Y direction (e.g.B, (i) to move parallel to and / or along the contact rotation axis 228 relative to the electrical connector 210 to compensate for misalignment in the Y direction (for example, approximately 1 mm), (ii) to rotate about a Z-alignment rotation axis 234 relative to the electrical connector 210 to compensate for misalignment in the Z direction (for example, it may move approximately 1 mm or less, such as approximately 0.6 mm, in a Z direction), and / or (iii) to rotate about the contact rotation axis 228 to engage with a conductor 150 (for example, it may rotate approximately 10° or less, such as approximately 8.5°, and / or move approximately 0.5 mm or less in the Z direction).An electrical contact 220 can be adjustable (e.g., movable, displaceable, etc.) in a Z-direction and / or a Y-direction, in addition to and / or alternatively to a support element 200 and / or another electrical contact 220. Examples, as generally in . Fig. As shown in Figure 17B, each of the electrical contacts 220A, 220B, 220C can be independently adjustable in a Z-direction and / or a Y-direction. Additionally and / or alternatively, the alignment of an electrical contact 220 in the Z-direction can be facilitated by the movement of an electrical connector 210 and / or a support element 200 in a Z-direction and / or a Y-direction. For example, an electrical connector 210 can be connected to the support element 200 (for example, via a recess 206) such that the electrical connector 210 can move or float relative to the support element 200 in a Z-direction (for example, by about 3 mm or less, such as about 2.6 mm).In some embodiments, for example those in which an electrical contact 220 is connected to the electrical connector 210 via a ball joint connection 232, the electrical connector 210 can be essentially fixed in a Z-direction relative to the support element 200 (for example, the electrical contacts 220 can be configured to adequately compensate for misalignment in the Z-direction).

[0030] In embodiments such as are generally found in at least one of the Fig. As shown in Figure 9A-11, an electrical contact 220 can comprise a plurality of external surfaces, such as a first surface 240, a second surface 242, a third surface 244, a fourth surface 246, a fifth surface 248, and / or a sixth surface 250. A first surface 240 can be essentially flat (for example, a first flat surface) and / or can extend between and connect a second surface 242 and a sixth surface 250. A second surface 242 (for example, a first transition surface) can extend between and connect a first surface 240 and a third surface 244 and / or define a transition 252 between them. A second surface 242 can extend essentially radially relative to the contact's axis of rotation 228, such that the transition 252 is a step transition.A third surface 244 can be curved (for example, a first curved surface) and / or can extend between and connect a second surface 242 and a fourth surface 246. At least a portion of the third surface 244 (for example, a portion in a region of the transition 252) can be located radially farther from the contact rotation axis 228 than the first surface 240. A fourth surface 246 (for example, a second flat surface) can be substantially planar and / or extend between and connect a third surface 244 and a fifth surface 248. A fifth surface 248 (for example, a second transition surface) can extend between and connect a fourth surface 246 and a sixth surface 250 and / or define a second transition 254 between them.A fifth surface 248 can extend substantially radially relative to the contact rotation axis 228, such that the second transition 254 is a second step transition. A sixth surface 250 can be curved (for example, a second curved surface) and / or can extend between a fifth surface 248 and a first surface 240, connecting them. At least a portion of the sixth surface 250 (for example, a portion in a region of the second transition 254) can be located radially farther from the contact rotation axis 228 than the fourth surface 246.

[0031] In embodiments such as are generally found in at least one of the Fig. As shown in Figure 9A-11, a first surface 240, a second surface 242, and / or a third surface 244 can be arranged opposite a fourth surface 246, a fifth surface 248, and / or a sixth surface 250. A first surface 240 and a fourth surface 246 can extend substantially parallel to the contact rotation axis 228 and / or to each other. In examples, a first surface 240 and a third surface 244 can be directly connected to each other, and / or a fourth surface 246 and a sixth surface 250 can be directly connected to each other, such that an electrical contact 220 does not include a second surface 242, a stepped transition 252, a fifth surface 248, and / or a second stepped transition 254 (see, for example, Figure 9A-11). Fig. 18A). Examples of possible orientations of an electrical contact 220 when an electrical connector 210 is in the first position are generally given in Fig. 9A and Fig. 10A is shown. Examples of possible orientations of an electrical contact 220 when an electrical connector 210 is in the second position are generally shown in the Fig. 9B and Fig. Figure 10B shows a possible orientation of an electrical contact 220 when an electrical connector 210 is in the first position (solid line profile) and when an electrical connector 210 is in the second position (dashed line profile). Fig. 11 shown. As in Fig. As generally shown in Figures 17A-18B, an electrical contact 220 may, for example, have one or more external surfaces forming an elongated profile with rounded ends, an oval profile and / or another desired shape.

[0032] In embodiments such as generally in Fig. As shown in Figures 1, 6A, 6B, 15A-16C and / or 17B, an electrical connector 210 can comprise a plurality of electrical contacts 220, such as a first electrical contact 220A, a second electrical contact 220B and / or a third electrical contact 220C. One or more of the electrical contacts 220A, 220B, 220C can be configured the same and / or differently from at least one other electrical contact 220A, 220B, 220C. A first electrical contact 220A, a second electrical contact 220B and a third electrical contact 220C can be arranged in a stacked configuration such that the electrical contacts 220A, 220B, 220C are substantially aligned when viewed from a Z-direction.A first electrical contact 220A, a second electrical contact 220B and a third electrical contact 220C can each be rotatable about a respective contact rotation axis 228A, 228B, 228C, for example via respective preload elements 276A, 276B, 276C.

[0033] In embodiments as generally described in the Fig. 1, Fig. 5, Fig. 6A, Fig. As shown in Figures 7 and / or 8, an electrical contact 220 can comprise a stabilizing section 258. A stabilizing section 258, for example, comprises an elongated element and / or can be configured to facilitate the connection of an electrical contact 220 to the electrical connector 210 and / or to stabilize an electrical contact 220 at least to some extent. A stabilizing section 258 can be movably connected to an electrical connector 210 and / or can be arranged at least partially within an electrical connector 210 (for example, a first connector section 212 and / or a second connector section 214).A stabilizing section 258 can be connected to and extend from a base end 222 of the electrical contact 220 (for example, along the contact rotation axis 228) and / or can movably connect an electrical contact 220 to an electrical connector 210. A stabilizing section 258 can be configured to move in conjunction with the electrical contact 220 (for example, along the contact rotation axis 228) and / or rotate (for example, about the contact rotation axis 228 and / or the Z-alignment rotation axis 234).

[0034] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. 1, Fig. As shown in Figures 8 and / or 17B, an electrical contact 220 and / or a stabilizing section 258 can comprise an aperture 260 through which one or more wires / cables 204 can pass. A first wire 204A can be connected (for example, electrically) to a first electrical contact 220A and / or extend into a first aperture 260A of the first electrical contact 220A. A second wire 204B can be connected to a second electrical contact 220B, can pass through the first aperture 260A of the first electrical contact 220A (for example, be located above the second electrical contact 220B), and / or can extend into a second aperture 260B of the second electrical contact 220B.A third wire 204C can be connected to a third electrical contact 220C (for example, arranged below the first and second electrical contacts 220A, 220B), can extend through the first aperture 260A in the first electrical contact 220A, can extend through the second aperture 260B in the second electrical contact 220B, and / or can extend into a third aperture 260C of the third electrical contact 220C. In examples, a first aperture 260A of a first electrical contact 220A, a second aperture 260B of a second electrical contact 220B, and a third aperture 260C of a third electrical contact 220C can be substantially aligned with each other when viewed in the Z-direction.

[0035] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. 1, Fig. 5, Fig. 6A, Fig. 7, Fig. As shown in Figures 8 and / or 16A, an electrical contact 220 can comprise a connecting section 264. A connecting section 264 can be connected to and / or be an integral part of the stabilizing section 258. An electrical contact 220 and / or a stabilizing section 258 can be connected to an electrical connector 210 via a connecting section 264.

[0036] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. 6A, Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16A, a connecting section 264 can comprise a ball joint section 266 that can connect an electrical contact 220 to an electrical connector 210 via a ball joint connection 232. A ball joint section 266 and / or a ball joint connection 232 can enable an electrical contact 220 to (i) move parallel to and / or along the contact rotation axis 228 relative to the electrical connector 210 to compensate for misalignment in the Y direction, (ii) rotate about a Z-alignment rotation axis 234 relative to the electrical connector 210 to compensate for misalignment in the Z direction, and / or (iii) rotate about the contact rotation axis 228 to engage a conductor 150.A Z-alignment rotation axis 234 can extend (i) through a ball joint section 266, (ii) substantially perpendicular to the contact rotation axis 228, (iii) substantially parallel to an X-direction when the electrical connector 210 is in the first position, and / or (iv) substantially parallel to a Y-direction when the electrical connector 210 is in the second position.

[0037] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. 5, Fig. 6A, Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16A, a connection section 264 can include a mounting section 268, which can restrict and / or substantially prevent the rotation of an electrical contact 220 in a Z-direction (for example, about a Z-alignment rotation axis 234) relative to an electrical connector 210. A mounting section 268 can additionally and / or alternatively allow movement of an electrical contact 220 parallel to and / or along the contact rotation axis 228 relative to an electrical connector 210.

[0038] In embodiments, as generally in Fig. 8, Fig. 10A, Fig. 10B and Fig. As shown in Figure 16A, an electrical contact 220 can include a support projection 272 configured to support and / or be connected to a preload element 276. A support projection 272 can be connected to and / or be an integral part of an electrical contact 220 and / or a stabilizing section 258. A support projection 272 can extend away from a stabilizing section 258 (for example, radially away from a contact rotation axis 228) and / or can extend obliquely or perpendicularly relative to a stabilizing section 258 (for example, the stabilizing section 258 can extend in a Y direction and the support projection 272 can extend in an X direction when the electrical connector 210 is in the first position).

[0039] In embodiments as generally described in the Fig. 8, Fig. 10A, Fig. 10B and Fig. As shown in Figure 16A, an electrical contact 220 can include an engagement projection 274 configured to engage a preload element 276 and / or restrict the movement of a preload element 276 relative to an electrical contact 220 (for example, a support projection 272). An engagement projection 274 can, for example, be configured to be at least partially received within a preload element 276 (for example, a coil spring). An engagement projection 274 can be connected to and / or be an integral part of an electrical contact 220, a stabilizing section 258, and / or a support projection 272. An engagement projection 274 can be located on and / or project from a support projection 272.An engagement projection 274 can extend obliquely or perpendicularly relative to a support projection 272 and / or a stabilizing section 258 (for example, the stabilizing section 258 can extend in a Y direction, the support projection 272 can extend in an X direction, and the engagement projection 274 can extend in a Z direction when the electrical connector 210 is in the first position).

[0040] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1, 5, 6A, 9A-10B, 12-14C and / or 16A, an electrical connector 210 may include a preloading element 276 (for example, a spring) configured to preload an electrical contact 220 in engagement and / or contact with a conductor 150, for example, to maintain an electrical connection between an electrical contact 220 and a corresponding conductor 150 of a rail 120. A preloading element 276 may be located at least partially within an electrical connector 210 and / or may extend substantially parallel to a Z-direction and / or a connector rotation axis 216. A preloading element 276 may be configured to exert a force on an electrical contact 220, for example, in a direction substantially parallel to the Z-direction.A preloading element 276 can be arranged offset from a contact rotation axis 228, for example at least in the X-direction, which can preload an electrical contact 220 about the contact rotation axis 228. For example, a preloading element 276 can preload an electrical contact 220 about a contact rotation axis 228 in a first direction of rotation (for example, counterclockwise in ). Fig. 9A-12 and 16A) or in a second direction of rotation (for example, clockwise with respect to electrical contact 220 in Fig. 18A) pre-tension.

[0041] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1, 5, 6A, 9A-10B, 12-14C and / or 16A, a preload element 276 can be arranged on and supported by an electrical contact 220. A preload element 276 can be mounted directly on a surface of the electrical contact 220 (for example, a first surface 240; see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B). Additionally and / or alternatively, a preload element 276 can be arranged on a support projection 272 of an electrical contact 220 (see, for example, Fig. 10A, Fig. 10B, and / or 16A). A preload element 276 can be configured to engage with and / or receive a engagement projection 274 of an electrical contact 220, for example, to facilitate a connection between the preload element 276 and the electrical contact 220. The engagement between the preload element 276 and the engagement projection 274 can restrict the movement of the preload element 276 relative to the support projection 272, at least to some extent. For example, and without limitation, an engagement projection 274 can prevent the preload element 276 from slipping off the support projection 272 during rotation of the electrical contact 220 about the contact rotation axis 228 (see, for example, Figure 10B, and / or 16A). Fig. 10A, Fig. 10B). A prestressing element 276 can be arranged on and / or connected to a prestressing element support 278 of an electrical connector 210 (see, for example, Fig. 9A-10B), which can support one end of the preload element 276 opposite the electrical contact 220 (for example, a preload element 276 can be arranged essentially between an electrical contact 220 and a preload element support 278). A preload element support 278 can be configured similarly to a support projection 272 and / or an engagement projection 274 and can be fixed relative to the electrical connector 210.

[0042] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1, 14A-14C, 16A-16C, 17A and / or 17B, a preloading element 276, when an electrical connector 210 is in the first position, can preload an electrical contact 220 into engagement and / or physical contact with a conductor 150, for example to facilitate an electrical connection between them. The pretensioning element 276 can pretension a first section of an electrical contact 220 (for example, a third surface 244, 244A, 244B, 244C) in conjunction with a section of a conductor 150 (for example, an inner surface of a conductor top 154, 154A, 154B, 154C) and bring a second section of the electrical contact 220 (e.g., a sixth surface 250, 250A, 250B, 250C) into physical contact with another section of the conductor 150 (for example, an inner surface of a conductor bottom 156, 156A, 156B, 156C; see, for example, Fig. 14B and Fig. 16A). In such a configuration, for example, a contact 220 can be electrically connected to the same conductor 150 at two different points.

[0043] In embodiments, when the electrical connector 210 is in the first position, a section and / or a surface of an electrical contact 220 (for example, a first surface 240; see, for example) can be Fig. 9A, Fig. 11 and Fig. 14B) and / or a surface of a support projection 272 (see, for example, Fig. 10A and Fig. 16A) at an angle 280A relative to an XY plane (for example, a horizontal plane). During the insertion of an electrical contact 220 into a conductor 150 (for example, by rotating an electrical connector 210, as in Fig. (as shown in Figure 13) the interaction between the electrical contact 220 and the conductor 150 can cause the electrical contact 220 to rotate at least to some degree against the force of the preload element 276. If an electrical connector 210 is in a second position, a surface of an electrical contact 220 (for example, a first surface 240; see, for example, Figure 13) can Fig. 9B, Fig. 11 and Fig. 12) and / or a surface of a support projection 272 (see, for example, Fig. 10B) at an angle 280B (for example, 15°) which may be greater than the angle 280A, relative to an XY plane (for example, a horizontal plane). When an electrical connector 210 is in a second position, a section and / or surface of a projection element 276 may be spaced apart from a surface of an electrical contact 220 (for example, a first surface 240) and / or a surface of a support projection 272, which may allow at least some degree of rotation of the electrical contact 220 about the contact rotation axis 228. In examples, when the electrical connector 210 is in a first position, a surface of the preload element 276 may be substantially flush with a surface of an electrical contact 220 (for example, a first surface 240) and / or a surface of a support projection 272 (see, for example, Fig. 14B). Additionally and / or alternatively, if an electrical connector 210 is in a first and / or a second position, a section and / or surface of a preload element 276 may touch and / or abut a surface of an electrical contact 220 (for example, a first surface 240) and / or a surface of a support projection 272, such that an angle, which may be equal to or different from an angle 280A, 280B, is defined between them.

[0044] In embodiments, as generally described in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1, 5-6B and / or 12-16C, an electrical connector 210 can include an alignment projection 282, which can be configured to facilitate the alignment of the electrical connector 210 and / or the electrical contacts 220 with the rail 120 and / or the conductors 150. An alignment projection 282 can be located on and / or connected to an electrical connector 210 and / or extend from the electrical connector 210 (for example, obliquely, substantially perpendicularly, etc.). In examples, a second connector section 214 of an electrical connector 210 can be configured as an alignment projection 282 and / or an alignment projection 282 can define a second connector section 214 of an electrical connector 210.An alignment projection 282 can be configured to engage in an insulator 170 and / or be at least partially contained within an insulator 170 (for example, in a tapered opening 174 of a recess 172). For example, and without limitation, the alignment projection 282 can engage in and / or interact with the rail 120 when the electrical connector 210 rotates towards the first position (for example, a tapered opening 174), which generally moves the electrical connector 210 upwards in a Z-direction relative to the rail 120 and / or the support element 200, rotates one or more electrical contacts 220 about a respective Z-alignment rotation axis 234 (for example, via ball joint connections 232), and / or aligns one or more electrical contacts 220 with a corresponding conductor 150 in a Z-direction.

[0045] In embodiments, as generally described in the Fig. As shown in Figures 6B, 15A-15C, 16B and / or 16C, an alignment projection 282 can comprise one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes and / or configurations. For example, and without limitation, the alignment projection 282 can comprise a rib configuration that may extend substantially in the same direction as the electrical contacts 220 and / or that may have a height (for example, in the Z-direction) that tapers / decreases in a radially outward direction and / or in a circumferential direction relative to the connector rotation axis 216.The height of an alignment projection 282 can taper in a circumferential direction around the connector rotation axis 216, so that the height is smallest near a section of the alignment projection 282 that first engages with the rail 120 and / or the insulator 170, and increases, so that further engagement of the alignment projection 282 with the rail 120 and / or the insulator 170 can move the electrical connector 210 in a Z-direction, which can move an electrical contact 220 into a Z-direction alignment with a corresponding conductor 150.

[0046] In embodiments such as those generally found in the Fig. 1, Fig. 5, Fig. 6A and / or 15A-16C, a first, second and / or third electrical contact 220A, 220B, 220C may comprise a respective stabilizing section 258A, 258B, 258C, a respective connecting section 264A, 264B, 264C, a respective support projection 272A, 272B, 272C and / or a respective engagement projection 274A, 274B, 274C. The support projections 272A, 272B, 272C of the electrical contacts 220A, 220B, 220C can be arranged offset from one another in a direction parallel to the contact rotation axes 228A, 228B, 228C, thereby allowing a plurality of preload elements 276A, 276B, 276C to be arranged side by side and extending substantially parallel to one another in a Z-direction. Each preload element 276A, 276B, 276C can be connected to a corresponding electrical contact 220A, 220B, 220C and contact a corresponding preload element support 278A, 278B, 278C.

[0047] In embodiments, an electrical connector 210 can comprise an alignment projection 282, which is arranged adjacent to the second electrical contact 220B, which may be located between the electrical contacts 220A and 220C. The alignment projection 282 can facilitate the alignment in the Z-direction of at least the second electrical contact 220B and the second conductor 150B, for example, by adjusting the electrical connector 210 (for example, within a recess 206) generally in a Z-direction and / or a Y-direction relative to a support element 200 and / or a rail 120. The first and / or third electrical contact 220A and 220C can each comprise a ball joint section 266A and 266C, respectively, and / or can be connected to the electrical connector 210 via a ball joint connection 232A and 232C, respectively.Under certain circumstances (for example, as a result of manufacturing differences / tolerances), after the alignment projection 282 has aligned the second contact 220B and the second conductor 150B in a Z-direction, the electrical contacts 220A, 220C may not be directly aligned with the first and third conductors 150A, 150C in the Z-direction (for example, if they remain parallel to a Y-direction). In such circumstances, the electrical contacts 220A, 220C can rotate about the axes 234A, 234C to compensate for the misalignment in the Z-direction and to facilitate the insertion of the electrical contacts 220A, 220C into the conductors 150A, 150C. Such a rotation of the electrical contacts 220A, 220C can result in at least one of the electrical contacts 220A, 220C being arranged at an angle relative to an XY plane (for example, a horizontal plane).One or more of the electrical contacts 220A, 220B, 220C can additionally and / or alternatively be adjusted, moved, shifted, etc. along the respective contact rotation axis 228A, 228B, 228C to compensate for a misalignment in the Y direction between the electrical contacts 220A, 220B, 220C and the conductors 150A, 150B, 150C.

[0048] In embodiments such as those generally found in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a support element 200 can comprise a first electrical connector 210 and a second electrical connector 210', each of which can be rotatable about a corresponding connector rotation axis 216, 216'. A second electrical connector 210' and its components can be configured the same, similar, and / or different from the first electrical connector 210 and its corresponding components, or vice versa. For example, a second electrical connector 210' can comprise a first connector section 212', a second connector section 214', an electrical contact 220' rotatable about a contact rotation axis 228', a wire 204', a stabilizing section 258', a connecting section 264', a mounting section 268', and / or an alignment projection 282', some or all of which can be configured in the same or a similar manner as corresponding features of an electrical connector 210.

[0049] In embodiments such as are generally found in the Fig. As shown in Figures 19 and 21-24, an electrical connector 210 can include an adapting section 284 configured to facilitate the adaptation (e.g., rotation) of the electrical connector 210 to a first position and / or a second position. An adapting section 284 can be connected to an electrical connector 210 (e.g., a first connector section 212) and / or be integrally formed as part of it. An adapting section 284 can include a first adapting section 284A and a second adapting section 284B, which can project from an adapting body 284C and / or be arranged opposite each other. An adapting body 284C can, for example, generally extend in a Y-direction, at least when the electrical connector 210 is in a first position.A first matching section 284A and / or a second matching section 284B can extend obliquely or perpendicularly to a matching body 284C and / or a Y-direction, for example at least when the electrical connector 210 is in a first position.

[0050] In embodiments such as generally in Fig. As shown in Figure 20A-24, a support element 200 can include a slider 288 configured to facilitate the adjustment (e.g., rotation) of an electrical connector 210 into a first position and / or a second position. A slider 288 can be configured to engage an adapter section 284 of an electrical connector 210. A slider 288 can include a slider projection 290, which generally extends in a Y-direction. A slider 288 can include a slider receptacle 292, which generally extends into and / or projects from the slider 288 in a Y-direction. A slider receptacle 292 can be configured to engage with and / or receive part of an adapter section 284 (e.g., a first adapter section 284A).A glider 288 can include a guide surface 294 configured to engage, touch, and / or abut an adaptation section 284 (for example, a first adaptation section 284A and / or a second adaptation section 284B). A glider 288 and / or a guide surface 294 can generally extend in an X direction. A guide surface 294 can include a first section 294A and / or a second section 294B, which can at least partially define a glider projection 290. A third section 294C can extend from the first section 294A, for example, generally in the X direction. A fourth section 294D can extend from the second section 294B, for example, generally in an X direction, for example, in a direction opposite to that of the third section 294C.

[0051] In embodiments such as those generally found in Fig. 21A, Fig. As shown in Figures 21B and / or 24, when an electrical connector 210 is in a second position, a first adjusting section 284A may be arranged adjacent to and / or in contact with a third section 294C of the guide surface 294, a first connector section 212 may be arranged adjacent to and / or in contact with a first section 294A of the guide surface 294, and / or a second adjusting section 284B may be arranged adjacent to and / or in contact with a fourth section 294D of the guide surface 294 (see, for example, Figure 21B and / or 24). Fig. 21A and Fig. 21B). If the electrical connector 210 is in a first position (see, for example, Fig. 24), a first adaptation section 284A can be arranged at least partially in and / or engage in a rail receptacle 292 of the slider 288, and / or a second adaptation section 284B can be arranged spaced apart from a guide surface 294, so that the adaptation section 284 extends, for example, at least partially over a rail opening 136 of the rail 120.

[0052] In embodiments such as generally in Fig. As shown in Figure 21A-24, a slider 288 and / or an electrical connector 210 can be adjusted, moved, shifted, etc. (for example, generally in the X direction), which can cause the adjusting section 284 to interact with the guide surface 294p, which can cause the electrical connector 210 to be adjusted (for example, rotated) towards a first position and / or a second position. When moving the slider 288 and / or the electrical connector 210 to adjust the electrical connector 210 towards a first position, for example, from a second position (see, for example, Figure 21A-24), the following occurs: Fig. 21A and Fig. 21B), a first adjustment section 284A can slide along the third section 294C of the guide surface 294 and engage with a slider receptacle 292, and / or the second adjustment section 284B can slide along the fourth section 294D of the guide surface 294 and engage with the slider projection 290 (see, for example, Figure 21B). Fig. 22). Continued adjustment of the slider 288 and / or the electrical connector 210 can cause the second adjustment section 284B to slide along the second section 294B of the guide surface 294 (see, for example, Fig. 23), which can cause the adaptation section 284 and / or the electrical connector 210 to rotate (for example, to rotate an axis in the Z direction) towards a first position (see, for example, Fig.24), which may facilitate or cause the first adjustment section 284A to engage with the slider receptacle 292, so that a further movement of the slider 288 causes a further rotation of the electrical connector 210 via the first adjustment section 284A. The slider 288 and / or the electrical connector 210 can, for example, be adjusted / moved in the opposite direction to adjust the electrical connector 210 towards a second position, whereby the process described above can be carried out in reverse.

[0053] In various embodiments, a slider 288 can be actuated / moved in one or more of several ways. For example, a user can move the slider 288 directly and / or via a handle / lever / joint. Additionally or alternatively, the slider 288 can be actuated, for example, via an actuator shaft 298 and / or an associated pinion 300, which can engage with the teeth 296 of the slider 288 (for example, the slider 288 can include a rack section). The actuator shaft 298 can be actuated, for example, manually and / or via a driven actuator (for example, an electric motor).

[0054] Everything contained in the above description or depicted in the accompanying drawings is to be understood as illustrative only and not as limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the present disclosure. The special features, structures, or characteristics shown or described in connection with one embodiment / example may be combined, in whole or in part, without restriction, with the features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples, provided that such combination is not illogical or ineffective. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

[1] Support element (200) which can be connected to a rail arrangement (104) to be removable and adjustable, the support element (200) comprising: an electrical connector (210, 210') that is adjustable to a first position and a second position, the electrical connector (210, 210') comprising: a first contact (220A) configured to engage a first conductor (150A) of the busbar assembly (104); and a prestressing element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C); wherein the first contact (220A) can be engaged with the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position; wherein the first contact (220A) is arranged at a distance from the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the second position; and wherein the preloading element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) is configured to preload the first contact (220A) rotatingly into engagement with the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position, wherein the electrical connector (210, 210') has a connector pivot axis (216, 216'); the first contact (220A) protrudes from the electrical connector (210, 210'); the first contact (220A) has a contact rotation axis (228, 228') that is essentially perpendicular to the connector rotation axis (216, 216'); and the first contact (220A) is rotatable around the contact rotation axis (228, 228'). [2] Support element (200) according to claim 1, wherein: the first contact (220A) comprises a first surface (240), a second surface (242) and a third surface (244); and the second surface (242) extends between the first surface (240) and the third surface (244) and connects them, so that a transition (252) between the first surface (240) and the third surface (244) is defined. [3] Support element (200) according to claim 2, wherein: the first contact (220A) includes a fourth surface (246), a fifth surface (248) and a sixth surface (250); the third surface (244) extends between and connects the second surface (242) and the fourth surface (246); the fifth surface (248) extends between and connects the fourth surface (246) and the sixth surface (250), so that a second transition (254) is defined between the fourth surface (246) and the sixth surface (250); and the sixth surface (250) extends between the fifth surface (248) and the first surface (240) and connects them. [4] Support element (200) according to claim 3, wherein: the first surface (240) and the fourth surface (246) are essentially flat; the third surface (244) and the sixth surface (250) are curved; in a region of the transition (252) the third surface (244) is arranged radially further away from an axis of the first contact (220A) than the first surface (240); and In one area of ​​the second transition (254), the sixth surface (250) is arranged radially further away from the axis of the first contact (220A) than the fourth surface (246). [5] Support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position: the contact rotation axis (228, 228') extends essentially in a transverse direction of the support element (200); and the preload element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) is offset from the contact rotation axis (228, 228') in a longitudinal direction of the support element (200). [6] Support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the preloading element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) is configured to exert a force on the first contact (220A) in a substantially vertical direction, so that the first contact (220A) is preloaded rotationally into engagement with the first conductor (150A) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position. [7] Support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the electrical connector (210, 210') comprises a second contact (220B), a second bias element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) and an alignment projection (282); the second contact (220B) is configured to engage with a second conductor (150B) of the rail arrangement (104) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position; the alignment projection (282) is arranged adjacent to the second contact (220B) and is configured to engage with the rail arrangement (104) to facilitate the alignment of the second contact (220B) with the second conductor (150B); the electrical connector (210, 210') is rotatable about the connector pivot axis (216, 216') and adjustable along it, such that when the electrical connector (210, 210') is rotated from the second position towards the first position, the electrical connector (210, 210') is adjusted along the connector pivot axis (216, 216') via the engagement of the alignment projection (282) and the rail arrangement (104) to align the second contact (220B) substantially with the second conductor (150B); and the first contact (220A) is rotatable around a rotation axis to compensate for a misalignment of the first contact (220A) with the first conductor (150A). [8] Support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the preload element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) includes a spring; the first contact (220A) comprises a stabilizing section (258, 258A, 258B, 258C, 258'), a support projection (272, 272A, 272B, 272C) connected to the stabilizing section (258, 258A, 258B, 258C, 258') and an engagement projection (274, 274A, 274B, 274C) extending from the support projection (272, 272A, 272B, 272C); the engagement projection (274, 274A, 274B, 274C) engages with the spring to limit movement of the spring relative to the support projection (272, 272A, 272B, 272C). [9] Support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: The electrical connector (210, 210') can be adjusted to the first position and the second position by rotating it around the connector rotation axis (216, 216'). [10] Support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first contact (220A) comprises a ball joint section (266, 266A, 266C), a first axis of rotation and a second axis of rotation. [11] Rail system (100), comprising: the support element (200) according to one of the preceding claims; and the rail arrangement (104); wherein the rail arrangement (104) comprises a rail (120, 120') and an insulator (170, 170'); and where the first conductor (150A) is connected to the rail (120, 120`) via the insulator (170, 170'). [12] Rail system (100) according to claim 11, wherein, when the first contact (220A) is engaged with the first conductor (150A), the pretensioning element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) (i) pretensions a first section of the first contact (220A) towards an upper inner surface of the first conductor (150A) and (ii) pretensions a second section of the first contact (220A) towards a lower inner surface of the first conductor (150A). [13] Rail system (100) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first conductor (150A) is received and held in a recess (172, 172A, 172B, 172C, 172') of the insulator (170, 170'). [14] Rail system (100) according to claim 13, wherein: the electrical connector (210, 210') includes an alignment projection (282); and the recess (172, 172A, 172B, 172C, 172') of the insulator (170, 170') includes a tapered opening (174, 174A, 174B, 174C, 174') configured to engage with the alignment projection (282) such that when the electrical connector (210, 210') is moved from the second position towards the first position, the first contact (220A) and the first conductor (150A) are substantially aligned to each other via the engagement of the tapered opening (174, 174A, 174B, 174C, 174') and the alignment projection (282). [15] Rail system (100) according to claim 14, wherein: the first conductor (150A) has a U-shaped profile open in the transverse direction and is configured so that it at least partially makes contact with the first conductor (220A); and the insulator (170, 170') extends beyond the first conductor (150A) so that the first contact (220A) can be inserted into the first conductor (150A) through the tapered opening (174, 174A, 174B, 174C, 174') of the recess (172, 172A, 172B, 172C, 172') of the insulator (170, 170') when the electrical connector (210, 210') is set in the direction of the first position. [16] Rail system (100) according to one of claims 11 to 15, wherein: the first contact (220A) comprises a first flat surface, a first transition surface, a first curved surface, a second flat surface, a second transition surface and a second curved surface; the first flat surface extends between and connects the second curved surface and the first transition surface; the first transition surface extends between the first flat surface and the first curved surface and connects them, so that a transition (252) between the first flat surface and the first curved surface is defined; the first curved surface extends between the first transition surface and the second flat surface and connects them; the second flat surface extends between the first curved surface and the second transition surface and connects them; the second transition surface extends between and connects the second planar surface and the second curved surface, such that a second transition (254) is defined between the second planar surface and the second curved surface; and the second curved surface extends between the second transition surface and the first flat surface and connects them. [17] Rail system (100) according to claim 16, wherein: the first conductor (150A) has an essentially U-shaped profile; and the first contact (220A) is pre-tensioned via the pre-tensioning element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C) rotating about the first contact rotation axis (228, 228') such that when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position, (i) the first contact (220A) is arranged inside the first conductor (150A) and (ii) the first curved surface and the second curved surface of the first contact (220A) are pre-tensioned in contact with opposite surfaces of the first conductor (150A). [18] Rail system (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein: the rail arrangement (104) includes a second conductor (150B); the electrical connector (210, 210') comprises a second contact (220B) and a second preloading element (276, 276A, 276B, 276C); the second contact (220B) is configured to engage with the second conductor (150B) when the electrical connector (210, 210') is in the first position; and the first contact (220A) is configured to rotate around a multitude of axes to facilitate the engagement between the first contact (220A) and the first conductor (150A). [19] Rail system (100) according to claim 18, wherein: the electrical connector (210, 210') includes an alignment projection (282); the alignment projection (282) is configured to engage with the insulator (170, 170') such that when the electrical connector (210, 210') is moved from the second position towards the first position, the second contact (220B) and the second conductor (150B) are substantially aligned with each other via the engagement of the alignment projection (282) and the insulator (170, 170'); and the first contact (220A) is connected to the electrical connector (210, 210') via a ball joint connection (232, 232A, 232C) such that the first contact (220A) (i) is rotatable about a first axis of the plurality of axes to contact the first conductor (150A), and (ii) is rotatable about a second axis of the plurality of axes to compensate for a misalignment of the first contact (220A) and the first conductor (150A).

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