conductor connection terminal

Abstract

A conductor terminal (1) is described, comprising an insulating housing (3) having a conductor entry channel (2), a busbar (4), a clamping spring (5), and an actuating unit (6). The clamping spring (5) has a contact leg (7), a spring arc (8), and a clamping leg (9). The clamping leg (9) forms a clamping point (10) with the busbar (4) for an electrical conductor (11) that can be inserted into the conductor entry channel (2). The clamping leg (9) is movable between an open position (O) and a closed position (S) for opening and closing the clamping point (10). The actuating unit (6) is designed to move the clamping leg (9) into the open position (O). The clamping point (10) is formed, in particular, by a clamping edge on the clamping leg (9), which is generally located at the free end of the clamping leg (9).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a conductor terminal block with an insulating housing having a conductor entry channel, a busbar, a clamping spring and an actuating unit, wherein the clamping spring has a contact leg, a spring arc and a clamping leg, wherein the clamping leg forms a clamping point with the busbar for an electrical conductor that can be inserted into the conductor entry channel, wherein the clamping leg is movable between an open position and a closed position for opening and closing the clamping point, wherein the actuating unit is designed to move the clamping leg into the open position.

[0002] The clamping point is formed in particular by a clamping edge on the clamping leg, which is usually located at the free end of the clamping leg.

[0003] Such conductor terminals are well-known in practice. The actuating unit of the conductor terminal serves to return the clamping arm to the open position, thus releasing the clamping point, for example, to free a clamped conductor. In one variant, these conductor terminals can be equipped with an automatic connection of the electrical conductor to be clamped when it is inserted into the terminal. By inserting the electrical conductor, the clamping arm of the clamping spring, which is held in the open position, can then be automatically released, causing the electrical conductor to be clamped securely.

[0004] With regard to the actuating unit, it is desirable that effective force transmission to the clamping arm for its movement into the open position is enabled with minimal effort, while at the same time the actuating unit occupies only a small installation space and does not impair the automatic connection mechanism. Against this background, the invention is based on the objective of creating an improved conductor connection terminal.

[0005] The problem is solved with a conductor terminal according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are disclosed in the dependent claims, the description and the figures.

[0006] For a generic conductor terminal, it is proposed that the actuating unit has a control element and an actuating element, wherein the actuating element has a bearing base, an actuating section for actuating the actuating element by the control element and a pivot arm for mechanically contacting the clamping leg, wherein the clamping leg has a driver section and wherein the actuating element is configured to pivot about the bearing base when actuated and to displace the clamping leg into its open position via the pivot arm acting on the driver section.

[0007] In other words, a conductor terminal with a return of the clamping arm to the open position by an actuating unit is proposed, comprising a control element and, in particular, a separately designed actuating element. The actuating element forms a two-armed lever pivotable about the bearing base, the lever arms of which are formed by the actuating section and the pivoting arm. The pivoting movement of the actuating element is transmitted to the clamping arm via the pivoting arm and the drive section, allowing the clamping arm to be moved into its open position against the contact leg. The proposed conductor terminal enables a reliably effective return of the clamping arm with minimal effort and a compact design, thanks to the leverage effect achievable with the actuating element.

[0008] This creates a compact, easy-to-use and reliably effective actuation mechanism.

[0009] The insulating housing of the conductor terminal, made of a plastic material for example, accommodates the busbar and the clamping spring of the conductor terminal and protects them from environmental influences and contact. The conductor entry channel can form an insertion channel leading to the clamping point of the conductor terminal, for example, at least partially cylindrical or funnel-shaped. An end section of an electrical conductor can be inserted into the insulating housing in a defined direction and removed from the insulating housing in the opposite direction. The busbar, also called a contact piece or current bar, can be a largely rigid electrical conductor, for example, formed by a metal strip. Depending on the design, this strip may be partially bent to create a clamping point or may have a perforated collar formed by a die-cut.

[0010] The clamping spring of the conductor terminal block can be a predominantly flat component, which may be made of a resilient, springy material. The clamping spring has a support leg for bracing itself against an adjacent structure, such as the busbar or the insulating housing; a clamping leg for connecting the conductor to the busbar; and a spring arc between the support leg and the clamping leg to deflect the clamping spring, allowing the support leg to run at least partially opposite the clamping leg. When the clamping leg is moved into its open position, it may be possible to shift it onto the support leg.The clamping arm can form a clamping point with the busbar for connecting the electrical conductor to the busbar. The conductor is pressed against the busbar by the clamping arm, specifically by a clamping edge of the clamping arm, using the spring force of the clamping spring, thus ensuring reliable electrical contact. The clamping arm is movable between an open and a closed position for opening and closing the clamping point. In the open position, the clamping arm is spaced away from the busbar and any inserted electrical conductor, allowing the clamping point to be opened and the conductor to be inserted into the conductor terminal and positioned within or removed from the clamping point.In the closed position of the clamping arm, it is shifted onto the busbar and the inserted electrical conductor and exerts a clamping force on the electrical conductor in the direction of the busbar, so that an electrical contact is made between the conductor and the busbar.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the conductor terminal is lockable in the open position. Advantageously, the conductor terminal can be equipped with an automatic conductor connection by being configured to automatically move the clamping arm into the closed position when the electrical conductor is inserted into the terminal. For this purpose, the conductor terminal can, in particular, have a release mechanism that can be actuated by the inserted conductor, allowing the clamping arm to be released from its open position and move automatically into the closed position by spring force. In its open position, the clamping arm can be held in a ready state, for example, by a suitable retaining structure on the busbar or on a contact leg of the clamping spring.Accordingly, it may be provided in particular that the actuating unit of the conductor terminal is primarily intended for moving the clamping leg into the open position by guiding, shifting or pivoting the clamping leg to the holding structure and less for permanently holding the clamping leg, whereby embodiments in which the clamping leg is held by the actuating unit, in particular by the actuating element, are not excluded.

[0012] The actuating unit comprises a control element and an actuating element. In a preferred embodiment, the control element and the actuating element can be designed as structurally separate components of the actuating unit. The control element serves to transmit an operating force exerted by a user on the conductor terminal to the actuating element. The control element can be actuated, for example, manually and / or by a tool. The control element can have a tool receptacle, for example, a guide slot for a screwdriver. The actuating element can be configured to pivot about its bearing base when an operating force is applied to the actuating section.When the actuating section is pivoted towards the busbar, the pivot arm of the actuating element can be pivoted in the same direction, enabling a rocking motion around the bearing base. The actuating section and the pivot arm pivot around the same pivot axis of the bearing base along different paths of motion, resulting from their differing positions relative to the pivot axis. The pivot arm is designed to move towards the drive section of the clamping leg and engages it upon mechanical contact, thus continuing the pivoting motion jointly through the pivot arm and the clamping leg. This allows the clamping leg to be moved into its open position towards the contact leg. The bearing base can have a base leg that forms a pivot bearing foot for the actuating element, through which the pivot axis of the actuating element passes.The base leg is connected to the actuating section and the pivot arm. The base leg can simply form a direct connection between the actuating section and the pivot arm, creating a pivot bearing base. Alternatively, at least a section of the base leg can project away from the actuating section at a distance. The base leg and the pivot arm can project in different directions, for example, at an angle of 90° ±10°. It is conceivable that the pivot arm, in the open position, projects approximately perpendicular to the busbar, and the base leg extends approximately parallel to the busbar. The base leg and at least a section of the pivot arm can together form a C-shaped contour. The bearing base with the base leg, the pivot arm, and the actuating section can be integrally formed.

[0013] The base leg can be supported on the busbar, and the swivel arm can contact the clamping leg on the side of the busbar diametrically opposite where the base leg rests. This means that the pivot point of the bearing section and the contact point of the swivel arm are very close together when viewed perpendicularly; that is, the projection points of the perpendiculars of the contact point and pivot point on the busbar are close to each other, and almost superimposed when viewed from the side, i.e., on a perpendicular to the busbar. This line of sight between the pivot point and the contact point need not be exactly perpendicular to the plane of the busbar (i.e., to the surface of the busbar), but can also be at a slight acute angle to it.This adjacent alignment of the pivot point and contact point ensures that, when the pivoting element is swivelled, the clamping leg achieves the greatest possible displacement in a direction parallel to the surface of the busbar.

[0014] It is advantageous to have two swivel bearing feet spaced apart. For this purpose, two base legs can be arranged at a distance from each other. The two base legs can extend parallel to each other.

[0015] The drive section of the clamping leg can be a surface area of ​​a front surface of the clamping leg facing the conductor entry channel, where mechanical contact and the associated force application of the swivel arm can occur. The drive section can be formed by a portion of the, for example, rectangular base of the clamping leg, or it can be set off from the base, for example, by projecting from the base with a lateral extension contour or a protruding spring tongue.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the actuating element can have two parallel pivot arms and / or two parallel base legs. Each pivot arm can extend on either side of the clamping leg, flanking it on opposite sides. Additionally, each base leg can extend on either side of the clamping leg, flanking it on opposite sides. If the actuating element has two pivot arms, the clamping leg can have two corresponding drive sections, allowing each pivot arm to mechanically contact a drive section of the clamping leg and thereby displace the clamping leg. This enables a uniform force transmission into the clamping leg, allowing it to be reliably displaced without tilting and with minimal effort.The actuating element also has increased stability and precise pivoting thanks to two parallel swivel arms and / or two parallel base legs. The two swivel arms and / or the two base legs can each be identical in shape and dimensions, so that features described below for one swivel arm or one base leg can be applied to both parallel swivel arms and / or both parallel base legs.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the actuating section can have two actuating arms extending parallel to each other and a connecting web linking the actuating arms. This provides a compact and stable actuating element. The connecting web can extend essentially transversely to the actuating arms. The surfaces of the base leg, the pivot arm, and / or the actuating arm, particularly when viewed from one side of the actuating element, can extend in a common plane, i.e., merge seamlessly without any angling.

[0018] According to a further development, the connecting bridge can have an actuation surface for mechanical contact by the control element. This gives the connecting bridge an additional actuation function besides its mechanical connection and stabilization function, thus further promoting the compact nature of the actuation element through functional integration. The actuation surface of the connecting bridge can face an actuation surface of the control element. The actuation surface of the connecting bridge can have a curved surface, at least in sections.

[0019] According to one embodiment, a curved spring tongue can be integrally formed with the actuating section. The spring tongue can, for example, project from the aforementioned actuating surface of the connecting bridge. The spring tongue can be bent from the actuating surface in a direction that points away from the actuating surface of the control element. The spring tongue can be formed integrally with the actuating section. The spring tongue can form part of the actuating section and be mechanically contactable with the actuating surface of the control element. When the actuating section is actuated, the actuating surface of the control element can slide along the curved spring tongue, thus facilitating smooth, gradual actuation of the actuating element and supporting comfortable handling of the control unit.In addition, the spring tongue, which limits the swiveling movement of the control element, can prevent the control element from jamming laterally on the connecting bridge.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the pivot arm can be L-shaped. This allows the pivot arm to engage the drive section of the clamping leg and enable a reliably effective force transmission to the clamping leg. The L-shaped pivot arm can have a first L-leg, which connects the pivot arm to the bearing base and the actuating section. The first L-leg can be supported on the busbar in the open position. The L-shaped pivot arm can have a second L-leg, which projects from the first L-leg at an angle, in particular essentially perpendicularly, and serves for the mechanical contact of the drive section. The L-shaped pivot arm is guided laterally past the clamping spring.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the drive section can be formed by a projection extending laterally from the clamping leg. This allows for a favorable force application area for displacing the clamping spring by means of the actuating element, requiring only a minor and simple geometric modification of the clamping spring. The lateral projection can be considered a lateral extension of the front surface of the clamping leg facing the conductor entry channel, such that the surface of the drive section and the front surface of the clamping leg lie in the same plane. In other words, the drive section can form a step in a side surface of the clamping leg, with the side surface connecting the front surface and an opposing rear surface of the clamping leg.In the area of ​​the drive section, the clamping leg can have a greater width than in a clamping leg area adjacent to the drive section. In particular, the clamping leg can have two laterally projecting projections on opposite sides of the clamping leg, which can be mechanically contacted by parallel pivot arms of the actuating element.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the busbar can have a busbar frame with frame legs extending parallel to each other, with the clamping spring arranged between the frame legs. For example, the busbar can be a predominantly planar contact element with an internal recess, the recess being bounded on at least two sides by frame legs. The recess can, for example, be designed as a through-hole, so that a collar of holes projects from the edges of the recess, against which the clamping spring can advantageously bear. The frame legs enable a compact and secure mounting of the clamping spring on the busbar and increase the stability of the contact insert of the conductor terminal formed by the clamping spring and the busbar.An arrangement of the clamping spring between the frame legs can be understood as follows: the clamping spring extends section by section between the frame legs and protrudes through a recess between the frame legs. For example, an upper section of the clamping spring with the spring arc can extend above the busbar, and a lower section of the clamping spring with a release section (described later) can extend below the busbar. A free end of the clamping leg, with which a clamping point can be formed with an inserted electrical conductor, can be located, at least in the closed position, approximately at the level of the frame legs or the hole collar, so that the electrical conductor can be reliably clamped against the busbar.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the busbar can have an actuator receptacle for supporting and guiding the actuator. This ensures a stable arrangement and defined movement of the actuator within the conductor terminal. The actuator receptacle can, for example, be a recess, a retaining pin, or another suitable contour for holding the actuator on the busbar frame, with a recess allowing for a particularly compact arrangement. The actuator receptacle can, in particular, have two receptacles formed on opposite sides of the busbar.The actuator receptacle can be designed in such a way that a pivoting movement of the actuator is not impaired by the actuator receptacle, i.e., for example, having a greater width than the actuator in a receptacle section for arrangement in the actuator receptacle.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the bearing base of the actuating element can extend on a side of the busbar facing away from the spring arc of the clamping spring, and the actuating section and / or the pivot arm of the actuating element can extend on a side of the busbar facing the spring arc of the clamping spring. This achieves a stable arrangement and defined mobility of the actuating element with respect to the busbar. In other words, the bearing base can be located below the busbar, and the actuating section and / or the pivot arm can extend above the busbar. A section connecting the bearing base and the pivot arm and / or actuating section thus extends through the actuating element receptacle on the busbar, which can, for example, be designed as a recess in the busbar.For example, the bearing base can mechanically contact the underside of a frame leg of the busbar frame, and the actuating section and / or the swivel arm can mechanically contact the top side of the frame leg of the busbar frame, depending on the actuation state of the actuator. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the busbar has a support surface, for example, adjacent to the busbar frame, which can be mechanically contacted by the actuating section when actuated.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the busbar can form a stop for the actuating section and / or the swivel arm. This precisely limits the movement of the actuating element. For example, the upper surface of a frame leg and / or an adjacent support surface, which is mechanically contactable by the actuating section and / or the swivel arm, can form a stop surface. Due to the rocker-like structure of the actuating element, the stop areas can lie in one plane and be used depending on the deflection state of the actuating element.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the busbar can have a bearing for guiding a pivoting range of the bearing base, preferably a bearing for guiding a pivoting range of the base leg of the bearing base. This allows for a defined pivotability of the actuating element. The bearing can, for example, be formed on the underside of a frame leg of the busbar. The pivoting range of the bearing base can, for example, be convex, and the bearing can be concave with a suitable radius. This allows the pivoting range to roll on a bearing surface of the bearing during a pivoting movement of the actuating element about the pivot axis passing through the pivoting range.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the clamping leg and the contact leg of the clamping spring can extend between the actuating section and the pivot arm of the actuating element, with the pivot arm facing the clamping leg and the actuating section facing the contact leg. Thus, the actuating section and the pivot arm can engage the clamping spring on opposite sides and partially enclose it, thereby achieving a stable and reliably effective actuating mechanism for returning the clamping leg to the open position. Furthermore, a compact design can be achieved by arranging the operating element on the side of the clamping spring facing away from the conductor entry channel.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the clamping leg can be configured to engage a retaining contour on the clamping spring's contact leg in the open position. This allows the clamping leg to be temporarily fixed to the contact leg in its open position until an electrical conductor inserted into the conductor terminal triggers an automatic movement of the clamping leg into the closed position. The retaining contour can be arranged on a retaining section, which adjoins the contact leg. The retaining contour can, for example, be a retaining edge. The clamping leg can have a retaining tab with which it can engage behind the retaining edge, so that the clamping leg can be fixed to the contact leg by engaging the retaining edge.It is conceivable that two retaining edges are provided on opposite sides of the mounting leg, which can interact with two correspondingly arranged retaining tabs on the clamping leg. This allows for improved fixation of the clamping leg to the mounting leg.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the clamping leg can have a release section for releasing the clamping leg, which is held in the open position, when an electrical conductor comes into contact with the release section. This provides a simple and reliable release mechanism which, particularly in conjunction with the aforementioned retaining contour, can be fully integrated into the clamping spring and thus implemented in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The release section can, for example, have an activation surface onto which an electrical conductor inserted into the conductor terminal can be guided.Impact of the conductor on the activation surface can cause the release section to shift, and consequently, the retaining section to stretch or shift. This can release the retaining tab of the clamping leg from the retaining edge of the retaining section, thus activating the automatic, spring-driven movement of the clamping leg into the closed position. In other words, the locking of the clamping leg to the contact leg can be released by applying pressure to the activation surface. The clamping spring can be designed such that even a slight displacement of the release section by a conductor end triggers the automatic movement of the clamping leg into the closed position, for example, by using a relatively small retaining contour on the retaining section.The release section of the support leg, in particular an activation surface of the release section, can be located at a free end of the support leg. The release section can connect directly to the holding section of the support leg or via a connecting section.

[0030] The insulating housing can have a guide pin projecting into the conductor pocket, extending from a lateral inner wall of the conductor pocket into its interior. The guide pin is positioned between the line of the conductor entry channel or an electrical conductor inserted therein and a (vertical) connecting section extending between the release section and the retention contour. It prevents unintentional premature disengagement by the electrical conductor touching the connecting section before it is fully inserted up to the release section. The guide pin directs the inserted electrical conductor towards the release section until the conductor makes contact with it.

[0031] According to a further development, the release section can have a V-shaped bend. The opening of the V-shaped bend can face an inserted electrical conductor. This allows for the centering of electrical conductors with small cross-sections and a constant actuation force for the release mechanism. Alternatively, other embodiments are also conceivable, e.g., a circular recess within the release section.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the actuating element can be designed as a flat stamped and bent part. This allows for the cost-effective production and provision of a lightweight and compact actuating element. The actuating element can, for example, be designed as a thin-walled sheet metal part.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the operating element can be designed as a push button. This allows for simple and convenient operation of the actuating unit. The push button can have a tool receptacle, for example, a guide slot for a screwdriver. A push button can be considered an operating element that can be moved translationally, for example, in an actuating channel. In this case, it can be moved translationally, with an actuating surface leading, onto an actuating section of the actuating element, in particular an actuating surface of the actuating section. It is also conceivable, in principle, to design the operating element as a lever, so that the operating element is pivotable about a pivot axis.

[0034] In general, in connection with this application, the words "ein / eine" are not to be understood as numerals, unless expressly defined otherwise, but as indefinite articles with the meaning of "at least one".

[0035] The invention allows for various embodiments and is explained in more detail below with reference to an exemplary embodiment and the accompanying drawings. These show, in schematic form: Fig. 1a-1b - a conductor terminal block with a clamping leg of a clamping spring shown in a closed position in a cutaway view and a perspective front view of a spring-loaded clamping terminal block with the insulating housing hidden; Fig. 2a-2b - the conductor terminal with the clamping leg of the clamping spring shown in an open position in a cutaway view and a perspective front view of a spring force clamping connection with the insulating housing hidden; Fig. 3a-3b - the conductor terminal with the clamping leg of the clamping spring shown in the clamping position when an electrical conductor is inserted in a cutaway view and a perspective front view of a spring force clamping connection with the insulating housing hidden; Fig. 4a-4b - an isolated representation of the clamping spring of the conductor terminal in the closed position in a side and a perspective view; Fig. 5a-5b - an isolated representation of the clamping spring of the conductor terminal in the open position in a side and a perspective view; Fig. 6a-6c - an isolated representation of a busbar of the conductor connection terminal in a side view, a perspective top view and a perspective bottom view; and Fig. 7a-7b - an isolated representation of an actuating element of the conductor terminal in a side and a perspective view.

[0036] The Fig. Figures 1a to 3b show a conductor connection terminal 1 according to an exemplary embodiment in various views and states. Fig. Figures 4a to 7b show isolated representations of individual components of the conductor terminal 1 to illustrate constructive details of the described embodiment.

[0037] As in the Fig. 1a, Fig. 2a and Fig. As can be seen in 3a, the conductor connection terminal 1 has an insulating housing 3 with a conductor entry channel 2 into which a conductor is inserted. Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b shows the electrical conductor 11 being insertable. Furthermore, the conductor connection terminal 1 has a connection in the Fig. 1a to 3b shown and in the Fig. The busbar 4, shown in isolated form in sections 6a to 6c and described in more detail below, is further detailed. Additionally, the conductor connection terminal 1 has a [missing information - likely a reference to a specific component or feature]. Fig. 1a to 3b shown and in the Fig. 4a to 5b additionally show the clamping spring 5 in isolation. The clamping spring 5 has a contact leg 7, a spring arc 8, and a clamping leg 9. The spring arc 8 deflects the clamping spring 5 such that the clamping leg 9 runs at least partially opposite the contact leg 7. The clamping leg 9 is designed to form a clamping point 10 with the busbar 4 for a conductor that can be inserted into the conductor entry channel 2. Fig. 3a and Fig. to form the electrical conductor 11 shown in 3b. The clamping leg 9 is between one in the Fig. 2a to 3b as well as Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b shown disclosure O and one in the Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b as well Fig. 4a and Fig. The clamping arm 9 can be moved to open and close the clamping point 10 in the closed position S shown in 4b. When moved to its open position O, the clamping arm 9 is as shown in the Fig. 1a to 3b shown can be moved to the mounting leg 7. In the open position O, as in the Fig. 3a and Fig. Figure 3b shows that the electrical conductor 11 can be positioned in the area of ​​the clamping point 10. In the closed position S, the clamping leg 9 is moved onto the electrical conductor 11 and exerts a clamping force on the electrical conductor 11 in the direction of the busbar 4 (not shown in detail). The conductor connection terminal 1 is designed for the automatic movement of the clamping leg 9 into the closed position S when the electrical conductor 11 is inserted into the conductor connection terminal 1. For this purpose, a retaining section 38 is attached to the contact leg 7, which has a retaining contour 28 and, after a bend, transitions into a (vertical) connecting section 37, to which, after a further bend, a release section 29 is attached. In the Fig. 3a and Fig. Figure 3b shows the clamping position of the conductor connection terminal 1. The clamping leg 9 rests against the electrical conductor 11 and the release section 29 is deflected. This is also indicated by the displacement of the spring arc 8 and the difference compared to the Fig. 2a significantly displaced retaining tab 35 significantly.

[0038] In the Fig. Figures 1a to 3b further show that the conductor terminal 1 has an actuating unit 6. The actuating unit 6 is designed to move the terminal arm 9 into the open position O. Fig. Figures 1a to 3b show that the actuating unit 6 has a control element 12 designed as a push button and a separate actuating element 13. The control element 12 serves to transmit an operating force to the actuating element 13. The actuating element 13 is additionally located in the Fig. 7a and Fig. Figure 7b shows the actuating element 13 in isolation. The actuating element 13 has a bearing base 14 with a base leg 15. The actuating element 13 also has an actuating section 16 for actuating the actuating element 13 by the control element 12. In addition, the actuating element 13 has a pivot arm 17 for mechanically contacting the clamping leg 9. The clamping leg 9 has a drive section 18. The actuating element 13 is designed to pivot about the bearing base 14 when actuated. In doing so, the actuating element 13 can move the clamping leg 9 into its open position O via the pivot arm 17, which engages the drive section 18. As can be seen from the positions of the actuating element 13 in the Fig. As can be seen in sections 1a to 3b, the actuating element 13 can act as a two-armed lever and transmit a pivoting movement of the actuating element 13 about its bearing base 14 via the pivot arm 17 to the driver section 18 of the clamping leg 9. This enables a reliably effective positioning movement of the clamping leg 9 into its open position O, whereby, due to the lever action of the actuating element 13, only a small operating force is required on the control element 12. At the same time, the conductor connection terminal 1 is compact due to the small rocker mechanism.

[0039] According to the in the Fig. 1a to 3b as well as Fig. 7a and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7b, the actuating element has two pivot arms 17 extending parallel to each other on both sides of the clamping leg 9 and two base legs 15 extending parallel to each other. According to the embodiment shown, the pivot arms 17 are L-shaped. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7a, the swivel arms 17 can have a first L-leg 17a, with which the swivel arms 17 can be supported on the busbar 4, and a second L-leg 17b, which serves for the mechanical contact of the drive sections 18. As shown, for example, in the Fig. 4b and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5b, the clamping leg 9 has two drive sections 18 on opposite sides of the clamping leg 9, on which the pivot arms 17 can engage. The drive sections 18 are formed by projections extending laterally from the clamping leg 9, each of which can be considered a lateral step of the clamping leg 9, and in the area of ​​which the clamping leg 9 is widened compared to adjacent clamping leg areas. The clamping leg 9 and the contact leg 7 of the clamping spring 5 extend between the actuating section 16 and the pivot arms 17 of the actuating element 13, with the pivot arms 17 facing the clamping leg 9 and the actuating section 16 facing the contact leg 7.

[0040] Furthermore, the operating section 16, as for example in Fig. 7b shows two actuating arms 19 extending parallel to each other and a connecting web 20 extending transversely to the actuating arms 19, thus forming a compact and stable actuating element 13. As in Fig. As indicated in 7b, the connecting bridge 20 has an actuating surface 21 for mechanical contact by the operating element 12. Furthermore, for example, in the Fig. 7a and Fig. Figure 7b shows that a curved spring tongue 22 is formed on the actuating section 16. The actuating surface 21 and the spring tongue 22 face an actuating surface 32 of the control element 12. The curved spring tongue 22 enables a smooth start and a gradual pivoting movement of the actuating element 13.

[0041] According to the in the Fig. In the embodiment of the conductor connection terminal 1 shown in 1a to 3b, the base legs 15 of the actuating element 13 extend on a side of the busbar 4 facing away from the spring arc 8 of the clamping spring 5, i.e. below the busbar 4, while the actuating section 16 and the pivot arms 17 of the actuating element 13 extend on a side of the busbar 4 facing the spring arc 8 of the clamping spring 5, i.e. above the busbar 4.

[0042] For example, in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6b, the busbar 4 has a busbar frame 23 with frame legs 24 extending parallel to each other. The busbar 4 can be, as shown, a predominantly planar contact element with an internal recess 33 bounded by frame legs 24. The recess can be formed by a through-hole and thus have a collar 31 against which the clamping spring 5 can be supported. Fig. 1b, Fig. 2b and Fig. Figure 3b shows that the clamping spring 5 is arranged between the frame legs 24, thus extending through the recess 33. This forms a stable contact insert. As shown in the Fig. As shown in Figures 6a to 6c, a support surface 34 is connected on which the actuating section 16, in particular the actuating arms 19, can be supported when the actuating element 13 is actuated. The support surface 34 can also form a stop surface for the actuating section 16. Furthermore, the frame legs 24 can form a stop for the pivot arms 17. Thus, the rocking motion of the actuating element 13 can be limited by the busbar 4.

[0043] Furthermore, for example in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6b, the busbar 4 has a recessed receptacle 25 on opposite sides for supporting and guiding the actuating element 13, thus achieving a compact arrangement and defined mobility of the actuating element 13. Furthermore, the busbar 4 has, as shown in the Fig. Figures 6a to 6c show a bearing 26 with a concave curved area (exemplary here) for guiding a convex pivot area 27 of the respective base leg 15 of the bearing base 14.

[0044] As shown by the Fig. 2a to 3b as well as Fig. As can be seen in sections 4a to 5b, the clamping leg 9 is designed to engage with retaining contours 28 of the support leg 7 of the clamping spring 5 in the open position O. This allows the clamping leg 9 to be temporarily fixed to the support leg 7 in its open position O. The retaining contours 28 can be lateral retaining edges, as shown, extending from the Fig.The retaining tabs 35 of the clamping arm 9 shown in Figures 4a to 5b can be engaged in a latching manner. For automatic conductor connection with automatic displacement of the clamping arm 9 into the closed position S, the conductor connection terminal 1 has a release mechanism which, according to the illustrated embodiment, is implemented by a release section 29 on the clamping arm 7 facing a free end of the clamping arm 7. The release section 29 serves to release the clamping arm 9, which is held in the open position O, when an electrical conductor 11 comes into contact with the release section 29. The impact of the conductor 11 deflects the clamping arm 7 in such a way that the retaining tabs 35 of the clamping arm 9 are released from the retaining contours 28 and the latching mechanism is released. The release section 29 has a V-shaped bend 30, which allows electrical conductors with small cross-sections to be centered so that a sufficient release force can be generated.

[0045] By means of the conductor connection terminal 1 described in the above embodiment, a conductor connection terminal 1 with an automatic conductor connection and with a compact yet reliably effective actuating mechanism for resetting the clamping leg 9 to its open position O can be provided. Reference symbol list 1 conductor connection terminal 2 conductor entry channel 3 Insulating housings 4 busbar 5 clamping spring 6 Actuating unit 7 attachment legs 8 feather bows 9 clamping legs 10 clamping point 11 electrical conductor 12 Control element 13 Actuating element 14 warehouse base 15 Base leg 16 Actuation section 17 Swivel arm 17a first L-leg 17b second L-leg 18 Drive section 19 Actuating arm 20 Connecting bridge 21 operating area 22 Spring tongue 23 busbar frames 24 frame legs 25 Actuator element receptacle 26 warehouses 27 Swivel range 28 Holding contour 29 Solution section 30 V-shaped bend 31-hole collar 32 Actuator area 33 recess 34 Support surface 35 retaining tab 36 guide pins 37 Connecting section 38 Stop section O disclosure S Closed position

Claims

[1] Conductor terminal (1) with an insulating housing (3) having a conductor entry channel (2), a busbar (4), a clamping spring (5) and an actuating unit (6), wherein - the clamping spring (5) has a support leg (7), a spring arc (8) and a clamping leg (9), - the clamping leg (9) with the busbar (4) forms a clamping point (10) for an electrical conductor (11) that can be inserted into the conductor entry channel (2), - the clamping leg (9) can be moved between an open position (O) and a closed position (S) to open and close the clamping point (10), and - the actuating unit (6) is designed to move the clamping arm (9) into the open position (O), characterized by, that the actuating unit (6) has a control element (12) and an actuating element (13), wherein the actuating element (13) has a bearing base (14), an actuating section (16) for actuating the actuating element (13) by the control element (12) and a pivot arm (17) for mechanically contacting the clamping leg (9), wherein the clamping leg (9) has a driver section (18) and wherein the actuating element (13) is configured to pivot about the bearing base (14) when actuated and to displace the clamping leg (9) into its open position (O) via the pivot arm (17) acting on the driver section (18). [2] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the actuating element (13) has two pivot arms (17) extending parallel to each other. [3] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that the actuating section (16) has two actuating arms (19) extending parallel to each other and a connecting bridge (20) connecting the actuating arms (19). [4] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the connecting bridge (20) has an actuating surface (21) for mechanical contact by the operating element (12). [5] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a curved spring tongue (22) is formed on the actuating section (16). [6] Terminal block (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the swivel arm (17) is L-shaped. [7] Terminal block (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the driver section (18) is formed by a projection extending laterally from the clamping leg (9). [8] Terminal block (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the conductor rail (4) has a conductor rail frame (23) with frame legs (24) extending parallel to each other, wherein the clamping spring (5) is arranged between the frame legs (24). [9] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the busbar (4) has a bearing receptacle (25) for supporting and guiding the actuating element (13). [10] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the bearing base (14) of the actuating element (13) extends on a side of the busbar (4) facing away from the spring arc (8) of the clamping spring (5) and that the actuating section (16) and / or the pivot arm (17) of the actuating element (13) extends on a side of the busbar (4) facing the spring arc (8) of the clamping spring (5). [11] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the busbar (4) forms a stop for the actuating section (16) and / or for the swivel arm (17). [12] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the bearing base (14) has a base leg (15). [13] Terminal block (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the base leg (15) is supported on the busbar (4) and the swivel arm (17) contacts the clamping leg (9) on the side of the busbar (4) diametrically opposite to the support of the base leg (15) on the busbar (4). [14] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by , that the bearing base (14) has two base legs (15) arranged at a distance from each other. [15] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 14, characterized by , that the two base legs (15) extend parallel to each other. [16] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized by , that the busbar (4) has a bearing (26) for guiding a pivoting range (27) of the base leg (15) of the bearing base (14). [17] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the clamping leg (9) and the contact leg (7) of the clamping spring (5) extend between the actuating section (16) and the pivot arm (17) of the actuating element (13), wherein the pivot arm (17) faces the clamping leg (9) and the actuating section (16) faces the contact leg (7). [18] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the clamping leg (9) is designed to engage in the open position (O) on a retaining contour (28) of the contact leg (7) of the clamping spring (5). [19] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the conductor terminal (1) is designed to automatically move the clamping leg (9) into the closed position (S) when an electrical conductor (11) is inserted into the conductor terminal (1). [20] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 19, characterized by , that the mounting leg (7) has a release section (29) for releasing the clamping leg (9) held in the open position (O) when an electrical conductor (11) comes into contact with the release section (29). [21] Conductor terminal (1) according to claim 20, characterized by , that the loosening section (29) has a V-shaped bend (30). [22] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the actuating element (13) is designed as a flat stamped and bent part. [23] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control element (12) is designed as a push button.

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