conductor connection terminal

Abstract

The invention relates to a conductor terminal (1, 1') with at least one busbar (6, 6') and with a clamping spring (8, 8') which forms a clamping point (5, 5') for clamping an electrical conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a, 6a') of a busbar (6, 6'), and with an actuating element (9) for moving a clamping leg (7, 7') of the clamping spring (8, 8') from a clamping position to an open position, wherein the clamping spring (8, 8') has a spring section (8b, 8b') arranged between opposing busbar sections (6a, 6a', 6b, 6b') with a contact leg (11, 11') and with a release leg (13, 13') as well as with a locking leg (14, 14') which engages with the clamping leg (7, 7') in its open position is locked up.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a conductor terminal for connecting an electrical conductor, with a busbar and with a clamping spring forming a clamping point with the busbar for clamping the conductor.

[0002] Such a (conductor) terminal block, particularly one with a spring-loaded clamp, is used to connect an electrical conductor to a clamping point formed between the clamping arm of a spring clamp and a busbar. A conductor terminal block, often used in multi-pole terminal blocks, is typically operated in such a way that each (conductor) clamping point must be actively opened by a user, for example, by means of a lever- or push-button actuator, before a conductor can be inserted into the clamping point. The actuator is then released, closing the clamping point and securing the conductor to the busbar by spring pressure, thus establishing an electrical connection.

[0003] It is often desirable, especially in the case of small conductor terminals with the smallest possible dimensions or conductor terminals for connecting electrical conductors with the smallest possible cross-sections, that the open clamping point remains open without further action of the actuating element and that the clamping point can be closed without an actuating element, preferably by means of the conductor itself.

[0004] From DE 10 2020 119 372 B4, a conductor terminal is known with an insulating housing having a conductor entry opening for receiving an electrical conductor and with a busbar having a through-opening for the conductor, as well as with a clamping spring which, together with the busbar, forms a clamping point for the electrical conductor. A retaining element for holding a clamping leg of the clamping spring in an open position of the clamping point has a locking element that engages with a detent element on the clamping leg and a release section, which can be actuated, for example, by means of the conductor, for releasing the locking mechanism.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of providing a particularly suitable electrical conductor terminal. In particular, a suitable mechanism for locking a clamping leg of the clamping spring in an open position of the clamping point, or for releasing such a locking connection, is to be provided. Furthermore, a clamping spring for such a conductor terminal is to be provided. In particular, the clamping spring is to have a particularly suitable locking and / or release functionality.

[0006] Preferably, the conductor terminal should be designed for a single, suitablely single- or multi-wire, particularly fine-stranded, electrical conductor, or as a connection terminal for several such conductors. Advantageously, the conductor terminal should be usable in a so-called junction box terminal or in a connector design, for example with a tulip contact.

[0007] With regard to the conductor terminal, the problem is solved according to the invention by the features of dependent claims 1 to 6, and with regard to the clamping spring by the features of claim 16. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0008] The conductor terminal, designed and configured for connecting an electrical conductor, has at least one busbar and a clamping spring which, together with the busbar or a section thereof, forms a clamping point for attaching the conductor. Here and in the following, a conductor is understood to be, in particular, a conductor core of an electrical line formed by one or more wires made of electrically conductive material, for example, copper, and enclosed by a conductor sheath of an electrically insulating material. The busbar is made, in particular, of copper or a copper-based material. The clamping spring, which has a clamping leg, is preferably made of spring steel, especially as a stamped and bent part.

[0009] In an advantageous embodiment, the conductor terminal has an actuating element for moving the clamping leg of the clamping spring from a clamping position to an open position. The clamping spring has a spring section with a contact leg, a release leg, and a detent leg. The detent leg is designed to create a releasable latching connection with the clamping leg. For this purpose, the detent leg is preferably equipped with at least one detent element or detent contour. The latching with the clamping leg, in particular with a clamping edge at the leg end forming a detent, occurs in the open position of the clamping point, which is created or effected, in particular, by means of the actuating element.

[0010] The release leg of the spring section, when actuated by the electrical conductor, serves to release the latching mechanism or the locking connection. The release leg of the spring section preferably runs at a distance from or parallel to the latching leg. The contact leg of the spring section suitably runs transversely or at an angle, particularly at a right angle, to the latching leg or transversely or at an angle, particularly at a right angle, to the release leg. Particularly preferably, the latching leg and the release leg are connected via a connecting leg, expediently in one piece, particularly via a bent section.

[0011] The spring section connects to the clamping leg via the contact leg, preferably as a single piece. The clamping leg is preferably connected to the contact leg via a spring arc. The clamping leg and the contact leg, or a leg section of the contact leg, which connects via the spring arc, essentially form a leg spring, particularly a V-shaped one. This leg spring is preferably connected to the spring section as a single piece via the contact leg or a leg section of the contact leg.

[0012] In other words, in the preferred embodiment, the clamping spring has a leg-spring-like (first) spring section and a (second) spring section that acts as a detent and release element. The clamping spring can also be two-part. Preferably, one leg section of the contact leg is assigned to the spring section, and the other leg section of the contact leg, particularly via the spring arc, is assigned to the clamping leg of the clamping spring.

[0013] The (second) spring section of the clamping spring, acting as a locking and release element or locking and release mechanism, is arranged between opposing rail sections, preferably clamped (or clamped) between the rail sections. The rail sections, which are suitably arranged parallel to each other, are preferably part of the same busbar. In this embodiment, the rail sections are connected at one narrow side, particularly for a terminal block, or at one long side, particularly for a connector, via a rail section. The rail sections can also be assigned to two different or separate busbars, between which the spring section is arranged, clamped, or clamped in place.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment of a conductor terminal with a clamping spring, which has a spring section for engaging and disengaging a clamping leg when the clamping point is open, a release leg is connected via a (first) bending section to a contact leg, and a locking leg is connected via a (second) bending section to a connecting leg, which is connected to the release leg via a (third) bending section. This embodiment of the clamping spring is particularly advantageous in conjunction with a busbar, especially one designed as a U-profile rail, whose rail sections are connected to each other at one narrow side via a rail section. This embodiment is particularly suitable for mounting the clamping spring from the end face opposite the connecting rail section between the spaced or parallel rail sections.

[0015] In an advantageous embodiment, the (first) bending section between the release leg and the contact leg of the spring section is tapered and / or made of reduced material. This allows for a suitable, advantageously small, bending radius between the contact leg and the release leg. In particular, this provides suitable elasticity or reduced bending stiffness for the locking and / or release element of the spring section, especially for the locking and / or release mechanism of the clamping spring. Particularly advantageous, especially due to the reduced bending stiffness of the clamping spring in the area of ​​the locking and release element or the corresponding spring section, is that only a correspondingly low release force is required to release the locking connection, which is particularly beneficial for electrical conductors with a small cross-section or low stiffness.

[0016] Alternatively, the locking leg is connected to the contact leg via a (first) bending section, and the release leg is connected to a connecting leg via a (second) bending section, which is in turn connected to the locking leg via a (third) bending section. In other words, the locking leg is connected to the contact leg via the release leg, or vice versa, and is particularly integrally formed with the locking leg. This design of the clamping spring is especially advantageous in conjunction with a conductor rail, for example, a C-profile rail, whose rail sections are connected to each other along one longitudinal side via a rail section. Such a design is particularly suitable for lateral mounting of the clamping spring between the spaced-apart or parallel rail sections.

[0017] In a suitable embodiment, the locking arm of the spring section has a passage opening for the electrical conductor to actuate the release arm. With the clamping point open and the clamping arm engaged on the locking arm, the conductor can be guided past the clamping point and through the passage opening to the release arm in order to deflect it or release the locking connection.

[0018] Preferably, a detent contour or detent element is provided or formed within the passage opening, particularly on opposing opening struts or edges. The detent contour or detent element reduces the clear width of the passage opening. The detent contour or detent element serves as a support or surface for creating the detent or detent connection with the clamping leg of the clamping spring or with a free-end clamping edge of the clamping leg. The detent contour or detent element, together with the clamping leg or its clamping edge, forms the detent point.

[0019] The opening, which is preferably square or rectangular, is suitably closed around its circumference. However, the opening can also be completely or partially open, particularly in the embodiment with the locking leg adjoining the release leg or the connecting leg, preferably at its free end.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, in a conductor terminal block with a clamping spring that has a spring section arranged or clamped between rail or busbar sections for engaging and releasing a locking mechanism of a clamping leg when the clamping point is open, one of the rail sections has a bearing or support contour. In the bearing or support contour, which is suitably trough- or groove-like, a bending section is located between the locking leg or a locking leg and the connecting leg or a connecting leg of the spring section to stabilize the locking leg in its locking connection with the clamping leg. In particular, the bearing or support contour acts as a barrier for the locking leg in its locking connection with the clamping leg, which is overcome by a displacement of the bending section on the locking leg when the release leg is actuated.

[0021] The bearing or support contour acts particularly like a limit force lock (brake) to prevent the locking arm from unintentionally changing position in the locking connection with the clamping arm. Furthermore, the bearing or support contour is designed to allow at least a slight pivoting or deflection of the locking arm when the release arm is triggered by the conductor and the locking connection is released. Additionally or alternatively, a rail section associated with the contact arm has a receiving contour. A bending area between the contact arm and the release arm can deflect into this contour during actuation if the release arm pivots together with the locking arm when the locking connection is released.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, a conductor terminal block comprising a clamping spring with a spring section arranged or clamped between rail or busbar sections for locking and releasing a clamping arm when the clamping point is open, has a contact point, a locking point, and a bearing or support point preferably being at least approximately collinear. In other words, a contact point of the clamping spring arm or spring section is located on the associated rail section, a bearing or support point of the locking arm of the clamping spring or spring section is located on the opposite rail section, and the locking point between the locking arm and the clamping arm is located in a collinear region.This advantageously reduces, or minimizes, the release force required to trigger the latching connection, preferably by means of the electrical conductor.

[0023] In other words, the contact point, the bearing or support point, and the locking point lie on an (imaginary) straight line or along a common straight line. This straight line or common line, on which the contact point, the bearing or support point, and the locking point lie, is suitably inclined at an acute angle to a line or straight line parallel to the rail section(s) of the conductor rail, in the direction of the leg end or leg region of the clamping leg facing away from the clamping point or the locking connection. The angle is suitably less than 90° and greater than 80°. Preferably, the angle is (85 ± 4)°, more preferably (85 ± 2)°, and expediently 84°.

[0024] The angle between the clamping leg in its locking connection with the locking leg and a horizontal line or straight line is preferably (15 ± 5)°, expediently 15°. The bearing or support point may also be slightly offset from the contact and locking points, which are positioned, for example, perpendicular to each other – in a conductor insertion direction relative to an insertion opening for the electrical conductor to the rear.

[0025] In a suitable embodiment of the conductor terminal, it has a (insulating material) housing in which the busbar and a clamping spring forming a clamping point for connecting an electrical conductor are arranged, with a spring section for creating and releasing a locking of a clamping leg of the clamping spring when the clamping point is open.

[0026] An actuating element for moving the clamping leg from a clamping position to an open position is advantageously accessible or operable from outside the housing. The spring section of the clamping spring, comprising a contact leg and a release leg, is arranged, in particular by clamping, between sections of the busbar or between the busbar and the inside of a housing wall. In a clamping arrangement between the busbar and the housing wall, the latter may have an internal housing contour into which a bending area between the contact leg and the release leg can deflect when the latter is actuated.

[0027] In a suitable embodiment of the conductor terminal, the clamping leg of the clamping spring is connected via a spring arc to a contact leg associated with the spring section. Alternatively, the contact leg can be designed as a separate spring element from the spring section via the spring arc, similar to a torsion spring. In a two-part embodiment of the clamping spring, the contact leg of the spring section preferably abuts each other as a contact section, and a contact section of the contact leg of the spring element in the form of a torsion spring, expediently at their free ends. The contact sections are fixed or positioned as intended on an associated busbar and / or on a housing wall, forming a common contact leg.

[0028] According to a suitable embodiment, the rail section or housing contour associated with the contact leg of the spring section has a joining groove or contour. The spring section, in particular the contact leg, has a corresponding joining element, for example a latch-like element, which engages in the joining groove or contour. This provides advantageous fixation, fastening, or retention of the clamping spring. Alternatively, the joining groove or contour can be located on the contact leg and the joining element on the rail section or housing contour.

[0029] A suitable design of the clamping spring provides that the release arm of the spring section has a contact section, in particular a tab-like or edge-like one. This serves to prevent or limit a tilting movement of the electrical conductor when it is guided against the release arm via the open clamping point to release the latching connection. Additionally or alternatively, a rail- or housing-side contact contour is provided to prevent and / or limit a tilting movement of the electrical conductor and / or the release arm of the spring section.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating element has a rotatably mounted actuating section which is coupled or can be coupled to the clamping arm to move it into the open position. Additionally or alternatively, the actuating element or actuating section has a rotatably mounted return section. This return section is coupled or can be coupled to at least one return spring to return the actuating element to a starting position. In particular, the return spring or springs are formed from the spring section, especially from its contact leg or a leg section of the contact leg. The respective return spring is preferably approximately S-shaped, with one S-curve being connected to the contact leg or leg section of the contact leg, and the other (opposing) S-curve bearing against the actuating section, for example, in a cantilever-like manner.

[0031] In a suitable embodiment, the conductor terminal designed and configured for connecting an electrical conductor has at least one busbar and a clamping spring. The clamping spring has a clamping arm that can be moved from a clamped position to an open position. A clamping position refers in particular to the closed position of the clamping arm when it forms a clamping point with the busbar, with or without a clamped or clamped conductor.

[0032] The clamping spring has a spring section that adjoins the clamping leg, in particular directly or indirectly. The spring section is arranged at least partially between a first wall and a second wall. In particular, the second wall is fixed to the first wall and / or is arranged opposite the first wall, preferably directly, or laterally offset from the first wall. The spring section has a contact leg, a release leg actuated by means of the electrical conductor, and a locking leg. The spring section can be formed in one piece or in multiple parts. The contact leg, the release leg, and the locking leg are connected to each other, with the clamping leg being latched or lockable to the locking leg in its open position.In a suitable embodiment, the spring section has a connecting leg between the release leg and the locking leg.

[0033] The first wall can be formed by the first rail section of the busbar, by the first wall section of the housing, by the first leg section of the clamping spring, or by a clamping element. The second wall can be formed by the second rail section of the (second) busbar, by the second wall section of the housing, by the second leg section of the clamping spring, or by the clamping element.

[0034] Preferably, the spring section is arranged completely or in its entirety between the first wall and the second wall. Alternatively, the spring section may be arranged only partially between the first and second walls. The contact leg and / or the release leg and / or the locking leg may project beyond or extend beyond the first or the second wall. The spring section rests against the first and second walls in the locking mechanism or in the locking connection of the clamping leg with the locking leg, preferably by means of frictional force (force-fit or frictional engagement), in particular by clamping. Preferably, the release leg and / or the locking leg and / or the connecting leg rests against the first wall. Suitablely, at least the contact leg of the spring section rests against the second wall.

[0035] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the conductor terminal designed and configured for connecting an electrical conductor has at least one busbar and a clamping spring which, together with a section of the busbar, forms a clamping point for attaching the conductor. The clamping spring has a clamping leg that can be moved from a clamping position to an open position. A clamping position refers in particular to the closed position of the clamping leg when it forms a clamping point with the busbar, with or without the electrical conductor.

[0036] The clamping arm is engaged or lockable in the open position by at least one locking element, which is formed in particular by or on a locking arm. The locking element is pivotably mounted with a first bearing section on the busbar and / or on a spring section and / or on a housing section and / or on an actuating element. The locking element is supported with a second bearing section on the busbar and / or on a spring section and / or on a housing section and / or on an actuating element, at least when locked in the open position. The second bearing section is particularly advantageously designed such that the locking element loses contact with the second bearing section when the locking element is pivoted out of the open position.

[0037] A one- or two-part clamping spring, particularly suitable for a conductor terminal, comprises a first spring section and a second spring section. The first spring section has a clamping leg, and the second spring section, connected to the first spring section via a contact leg, has a locking leg for creating a locking connection with the clamping leg and a release leg for releasing the locking connection. It is particularly advantageous for the locking leg and the release leg to be spaced apart from each other, and especially to be oriented parallel to one another.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, the locking arm and / or the release arm runs transversely to the contact arm, i.e., it is oriented approximately perpendicular to the contact arm. It is particularly advantageous for the locking arm to be formed via the release arm to the contact arm, or vice versa. In both variants, the locking arm and the release arm are suitably connected to each other via a connecting arm. This connecting arm advantageously runs, at least approximately, parallel to the contact arm. The locking arm, the release arm, and the connecting arm suitably form a U-shape, with the locking arm and the release arm each forming one leg of the U-shape.

[0039] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 in a side view a conductor connection terminal (junction box terminal) with an (insulating material) housing (terminal housing) and with an actuating element in the form of a slider, Fig. 2 the conductor connection terminal according to Fig. 1 in a rear view, Fig. 3 the conductor connection terminal in a sectional view along line III-III in Fig. 2, Fig. 4 the conductor connection terminal in a sectional view along line IV-IV in Fig. 2, Fig. 5 in a perspective view a variant of a clamping spring with a leg-spring-like spring section and with a spring section having a detent and release element (detent and release mechanism), Fig. 6 in a partially transparent sectional view according to Fig. 4 the conductor connection terminal with clamping spring arranged between rail sections of a busbar in a clamping position of a clamping leg coupled to an actuating section, Fig. 7 in a partially transparent sectional view the conductor terminal with the clamping spring in an open position with locked clamping leg in a latching connection with a latching leg, Fig. 8 in a representation according to Fig. 6 the conductor connection terminal in the case of a latching connection triggered by an electrical conductor, Fig. 9 in a perspective view another variant of a clamping spring with a locking shank molded onto the mounting leg and a release leg molded onto it, and Fig. 10 in a sectional view a conductor terminal (connector) with a clamping spring arranged within an (insulating) housing between rail sections according to Fig. 9.

[0040] Corresponding parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0041] The Fig. Figures 1 to 4 show, in various views and illustrations, a conductor terminal 1 with a (terminal) housing, hereinafter referred to as an insulating housing 2, made of an electrically non-conductive material, in particular a plastic material. The conductor terminal 1 is designed and configured for connecting an electrical conductor 3, which can be inserted in a conductor entry direction L through an entry opening 4 into the housing 2 to a spring-loaded clamping connection with a clamping point 5 between a busbar or conductor rail section 6a of a busbar 6 and a clamping leg 7 of a clamping spring 8. The conductor terminal 1 has an actuating element 9, designed in the exemplary embodiment as a slider, for moving the clamping leg 7 of the clamping spring 8 from a clamped position to an open position with the clamping point 5 open.

[0042] With a view also to the Fig. Figure 5 of the clamping spring 8 comprises a torsion spring-like (first) spring section 8a and a further (second) spring section 8b with a locking and release mechanism or with a locking and release element. The two spring sections 8a, 8b can be separated at a dividing point, indicated by dashed lines, in the case of a two-part clamping spring 8. The torsion spring-like (first) spring section 8a has the clamping leg 7 and – preferably via a spring arc 10 – a contact leg 11 or a leg section 11a of the contact leg 11. The further (second) spring section 8b has a leg section 11b of the contact leg 11. In this one-piece embodiment of the clamping spring 8, the contact leg 11 can also be assigned to the further (second) spring section 8b.

[0043] The clamping spring 8 is supported by the support leg 11 on a rail or conductor rail section 6b of the conductor rail 6 opposite the rail section 6a, in particular against the clamping force applied by the clamping leg 7. The clamping spring 8, with the spring section 8b adjoining the clamping leg 7, is advantageously clamped or clamped between the opposing and preferably parallel rail sections 6a and 6b of the conductor rail 6.

[0044] In accordance with the Fig. 1 to 8, which is particularly suitable for a terminal block, the two rail sections 6a and 6b, which are hereinafter also referred to as terminal-side rail section 6a and system-side rail section 6b, are connected to each other on a narrow side via a rail section 6c hereinafter referred to as a connecting section, in particular forming a U-shaped conductor rail 6.

[0045] The clamping spring 8 has in its (second) spring section 8b the contact leg 11 or the corresponding leg section 11b and a release leg 13 formed thereon via a (first) bending section 12a, as well as a locking leg 14. The (first) bending section 12a is material-saving or tapered by cutouts or punches in the spring material of the clamping spring 8. This reduces the spring stiffness of the clamping spring 8, particularly in or over this area. This advantageously reduces the release force required when actuating the release leg 13 and / or improves the pivotability of the (second) spring section 8b. The locking leg 14 is connected via a (second) bending section 12b to a connecting leg 15 and via this and via a further (third) bending section 12c to the release leg 13 of the clamping spring 8.

[0046] The release leg 13 and the locking leg 14 are spaced apart from each other and are preferably oriented at least approximately parallel. The release leg 13 runs transversely or at least approximately perpendicularly to the contact leg 11 or to the leg section 11a of the clamping spring 7. The connecting leg 15 runs at least approximately parallel to the contact leg 11. The locking leg 14, the release leg 13, and the connecting leg 15 form a U-shape.

[0047] As with regard to the Fig. 6 and Fig. As can be seen from Figure 7, the locking leg 14 is used to create a releasable locking connection with the clamping leg 7 by pivoting from a position in Fig. The clamping position shown in Figure 6, with the clamping point 5 closed, is provided and configured in the direction of the rail section on the system side, and is set up as an open position with the clamping point 5 open. For this purpose, the locking arm 14 in the exemplary embodiment has two mutually spaced locking elements or locking contours 16. These are provided or formed on the inside of opposite opening edges 17a, 17b of a passage opening 17 provided in the locking arm 14. The preferably rectangular passage opening 17 is closed on its circumference in this embodiment of the clamping spring 8.

[0048] The locking action with the clamping leg 7, in particular with a clamping edge 7a at the leg end, takes place by forming a locking point 18 ( Fig. 7) by means of the slide as an actuating element 9. For this purpose, the actuating element or the slide 9 is equipped with a Fig. 3. The actuating section 9a is coupled to a comparatively clearly recognizable actuating section. The actuating section 9a is connected to a bearing point 19, in particular a trough- or groove-like, of the clamping-point-side rail section 6a of the conductor rail 8 by a bearing point 19 that is oriented in a way ... Fig. 3. Axis D, indicated, is mounted to pivot or rotate.

[0049] By moving the slider 9 – in the conductor entry direction L towards the connecting leg 8c of the busbar 6 – the actuating section 9a comes into contact with the clamping leg 7 of the clamping spring 8. In doing so, the clamping leg 7 is disengaged from, for example, the Fig. In the clamping position shown in Figure 6, pivot the rail section 6a towards the opposite rail section 6b into the open position. The clamping leg 7, or rather its free-end clamping edge 7a, engages with the locking leg 14 by resting on the locking contours 16. During the formation of this locking connection between the clamping leg 7 and the locking leg 14, the locking leg 14 can initially deflect spring-likely in the conductor insertion direction L and then pivot back into its initial position.

[0050] With regard to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 7 The clamping-point-side rail section 6a of the conductor rail 6 has a bearing and / or support contour 20, in particular a trough- or groove-like one. The locking arm 14 of the clamping spring 8 or the second bending section 12b between the locking arm 14 and the connecting arm 15 of the (first) spring section 8a, which has the locking and release mechanism, is seated in the bearing and / or support contour 20. This stabilizes the locking arm 14 in its locking connection with the clamping arm 7, ensuring it assumes a stable position and preventing any unintended change of position. In other words, the bearing and / or support contour 20 forms an obstacle that can be overcome when the locking connection is released, for example, like a limit force lock or brake.

[0051] In Fig. Figure 8 illustrates the release of the latching connection between the clamping arm 7 and the latching arm 14 of the clamping spring 8 by means of the electrical conductor 3, which is guided through the end-face insertion opening 4 into the housing 2 and through a conductor channel 4a. With the clamping point 5 open and the clamping arm 7 latched onto the latching arm 14 ( Fig. 7) The conductor 3 can be guided past the clamping point 5 and through the opening 17 to the release arm 13 in order to deflect it and thereby release the latching connection.

[0052] When the release arm 13 of the clamping spring 8 is actuated by means of the electrical conductor 3 guided through the feedthrough opening 17 of the locking arm 14, the locking arm 14 pivots or the (first) spring section 8a is displaced. The pivoting of the locking arm 14 and the displacement of the bending section 12b from the rail-side bearing and / or support contour 20 release the locking connection. In other words, when the release arm 14 is actuated by means of the conductor 3, at least a slight pivoting or displacement of the locking arm 14 from its stable position occurs, thus releasing the locking connection. In this process, the clamping arm 7 of the clamping spring 8 pivots towards the terminal-side rail section 6a, establishing a clamping contact between the conductor 3 and the busbar 6 or the terminal-side rail section 6a.

[0053] Especially with regard to the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows that when the release arm 13 of the clamping spring 8 is actuated by means of the conductor 3 and the associated pivoting of the spring section 8b, which has the locking and release arm 13, 14, the (first) bending area 12a between the contact arm 11 and the release arm 13 can deflect into a receiving contour 21 of the contact-side rail section 8b of the conductor rail 8. This further improves the reliable release of the locking connection between the locking and release arms 13, 14.

[0054] As particularly in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, when the clamping point 5 is open, a contact point 22, in particular a point or line, is formed between the contact leg 11 of the clamping spring 8 or the leg section 11b of the associated spring section 8b and the contact-side rail section 6b of the conductor rails 6. The contact point 22 is collinear with the detent point 18, in particular a point, between the detent leg 14 and the clamping leg 7 in its detent connection and with a bearing or support point 23 of the detent leg 14, in particular a line, on the opposite, clamping-side rail section 6a in the area of ​​the bearing or support contour 20.

[0055] A straight line or the corresponding (imaginary) line K common to points 18, 22 and 23 is in Fig. Figure 7 is illustrated with dashed lines. The line K, common to the mounting point 22 and the resting point 18 of the storage or support point 23, is inclined at an acute angle α to the respective rail section 6a, 6b of the conductor rail 6 in the direction of the clamping leg 7 of the clamping spring 8. The angle α between line K and a parallel line P1, illustrated with dashed lines, is preferably approximately 84°.

[0056] An angle β between the clamping leg 7 in its locking connection with the locking leg 14, symbolized by a dashed (leg) line S, and a (dashed) parallel line P2 is preferably approximately 15°. According to one embodiment, the bearing or support point 23 can be slightly offset from the connecting leg 6c of the busbar 6 relative to a connecting line between the contact point 22 and the locking point 18 in the conductor insertion direction L. Alternatively, the contact point 22 and the locking point 18 can lie on a line K perpendicular to the rail section 6a, 6b or to the parallel line P1, P2, respectively.

[0057] The actuating section 9a has, in the design of the clamping spring 7 according to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 and 6 to 8 form a return section 24 cooperating with the clamping leg 7 of the clamping spring 8 for returning or pivoting the actuating section 9a back to its initial position with the clamping point 5 closed. In this initial position, the clamping leg 7 of the clamping spring 8 is, for example, in Fig. 6 shown clamping position with the clamping edge 7a on the clamping point side of the rail section 6a in the area of ​​the clamping point 5.

[0058] In this embodiment, the clamping spring 8 has two parallel return springs 25, which interact with the return section 24 of the actuating section 9a. The return springs 25 are integrally formed laterally, in particular on both sides, of the clamping leg 7 against the contact leg 11. Each return spring 25 is approximately S-shaped, in particular with a fixed and a movable S-bend. The return springs 25 are arranged such that the clamping leg 7 can pivot between the return springs 25, or the respective return spring 25 can pivot laterally past the clamping leg 7.

[0059] Together with the pivoting and clamping of the clamping leg 7 into the detent connection at the detent point 18, the return spring or springs 25 are pivoted and tensioned in the conductor insertion direction L by means of the return section 24 of the actuating section 9a via a return contour 26, which in the exemplary embodiment is arc-shaped. The respective return spring 25, in particular with its movable S-shaped arc, rests against the return contour 26 of the actuating section 9a.

[0060] In the open position of the clamping arm 7 and in its detent connection with the detent arm 14, the slide 9 is preferably decoupled from the actuating section 9a and can thus be moved without affecting the clamping spring 8. After detent engagement, or following the establishment of the detent connection between the clamping arm 7 and the detent arm 14 of the clamping spring 8, the slide 9 is moved to its initial position via the return section 24 as a result of the restoring force of the tensioned return spring(s) 25 and the actuating section 9a coupled to it.

[0061] In Fig. 4 A contact section 27 is discernible on the release leg 13 of the clamping spring 8 in its (second) spring section 11b. This contact section is preferably formed from the release leg 13 in an approximately arc-shaped manner, similar to a notch. The position of the contact section 27 is designed, particularly with regard to the small diameter of the conductor 3 or its conductor core, such that the conductor 3, guided through the insertion opening 4 and the conductor channel 4a, is supported by the contact section 27 when it contacts the release leg 13. This advantageously prevents an undesired tilting movement of the conductor 3, especially in the direction of the system-side rail or conductor rail section 6b.

[0062] In Fig. 4 A pin-like joining element 28 is visible on the system-side rail section 8b, which engages in a corresponding joining contour or joining opening 29 in the system leg 11 or in the leg section 11b of the corresponding (second) spring section 8b of the clamping spring 8. This ensures that the clamping spring 8 is positioned and held particularly reliably on the system-side rail section 6b of the conductor rails 6.

[0063] An alternative design of such a positioning or holding element is made of Fig. Figure 5 shows that the mounting leg 11 of the clamping spring 8 has a detent or locking pawl 30 in the area of ​​the (second) spring section 8b. This corresponds, in a manner not shown in detail, to an opposite recess in the system-side rail section 6b of the conductor rail 6.

[0064] In Fig. Figure 4 shows that the rail section 6b on the system side of the conductor rail 6 is designed as a double leg with a support leg 6d parallel to the rail section 6b. The distance of the support leg 6d to the rail section 6b expediently corresponds approximately to the thickness of the mounting leg 11 of the clamping spring 8, so that it is held and positioned particularly reliably.

[0065] In Fig. Figure 9 shows a clamping spring 8' which in turn has, in a first spring section 8a', a clamping leg 7' and a contact leg 11' as well as a spring arc 10' connecting the legs 7' and 11'. In this embodiment, a locking leg 14' is connected to the contact leg 11' via a (first) bending section 12a'. A release leg 14' is connected to a connecting leg 15' via a (second) bending section 12b'. This connecting leg 15' is connected to the locking leg 14' via a (third) bending section 12'c. In other words, a corresponding second spring section 8b' of the clamping spring 8', unlike the embodiment according to the Fig. 3 to 8, in which the release leg 13 is formed on the mounting leg 11 and the locking leg 14 is formed on it, a locking leg 14' formed on the mounting leg 11', to which the release leg 13' is formed.

[0066] The locking arm 14' has two spaced-apart locking elements or locking contours 16' in a through-opening 17' for the electrical conductor(s). The through-opening 17', which extends into the bending area 12a' between the contact arm 11' and the locking arm 14' and is in particular rectangular and closed on its circumference, allows a reduction in the bending stiffness of the clamping spring 8'. This, in turn, reduces the force required to actuate the release arm 13'.

[0067] In Fig.Figure 10 shows a conductor connection terminal 1' designed as a connector with a tulip contact 31, in whose (insulating) housing 2' the clamping spring 8' is arranged between rail sections 6a', 6b' of a busbar 6'. In the bending area 12a' between the contact leg 11' and the locking leg 14', a pin-like joining element 28' is formed opposite on the contact leg 11'. This engages in a corresponding joining contour or opening 29' in the system-side rail sections 6b' of the busbar 6' to position and / or stabilize the clamping spring 8'. This ensures secure retention of the clamping spring 6' between the rail sections 6a', 6b'.

[0068] This design of the clamping spring is particularly suitable for use with a conductor rail 6', especially one designed as a C-profile rail. Its rail sections 6a' and 6b' are connected to each other along one longitudinal side via a rail or connecting section 6c'. The system-side rail section 6a' is connected to a contact leg 31a of the tulip contact 31, the other contact leg 31b of which is integrally formed on the connecting section 6c' of the conductor rail 6'.

[0069] A curved contact section 27' is provided at the free end of the release arm 13' of the clamping spring 8'. This contact section 27' causes the release arm 13', or the clamping spring 8', to rest against a contact element 32, in particular a pin-shaped one. This secures the electrical conductor brought towards the release arm 13' against unintentional tilting, especially in the direction of the rail section 6b' of the conductor rail 6' on the system side.

[0070] With the clamping point 5' open and the clamping leg 7' locked on the locking leg 14', the conductor or conductors can be guided past the clamping point 5' and through an insertion opening opposite the tulip contact 31 (not shown) and through the passage opening 17' to the release leg 13' in order to deflect it and thereby release the locking connection.

[0071] In summary, the invention relates to a conductor terminal 1, 1' with a busbar 6, 6' and with a clamping spring 8, 8', the clamping leg 7, 7' of which can be moved from a clamping position to an open position, wherein the clamping spring 8, 8' forms a clamping point 5, 5' with a rail section 6a, 6a' of the busbar 6, 6' for clamping an electrical conductor 3, and wherein the clamping spring 8, 8' has a spring section 8b, 8b' arranged between opposing rail sections 6a, 6a 6b, 6b', with a contact leg 11, 11' and with a release leg 13, 13' as well as with a locking leg 14, 14', which is locked with the clamping leg 7, 7' in its open position.

[0072] The claimed invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, other variants of the invention can also be derived by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the disclosed claims without departing from the subject matter of the claimed invention. In particular, all individual features described in connection with the various embodiments can also be combined in other ways within the scope of the disclosed claims without departing from the subject matter of the claimed invention. Reference symbol list 1, 1' conductor connection terminal 2.2' Insulation / housing 3 electrical conductors 4. Introduction opening 4a Conductor channel 5.5' clamping point 6, 6' busbar 6a, 6a' (terminal-side) rail / power rail section 6b, 6b' (plant-side) rail / power rail section 6c, 6c' Rail / connecting section 6d Support leg 7, 7' clamping leg 7a Clamping edge 8, 8' clamping spring 8a, 8a' (first) spring section 8b, 8b' (second) spring section 9 Actuating element 9a Actuation section 10, 10' Feather bow 11, 11' Attachment leg 11a thigh section 11b thigh section 12a, 12a' (first) bending area 12b, 12b' (second) bending range 12c, 12c' (third) bending range 13, 13' Release leg 14, 14' Rastschelnel 15, 15' Connecting leg 16, 16' Raster element / contour 17, 17' Passage opening 17a, 17b Opening edge 18 Rest area 19 storage location 20 Bearing / support contour 21 Recording contour 22 mooring point 23 Storage or support point 24 Reset section 25 Return spring 26 Restoration contour 27, 27' Plant section 28, 28' Joining element 29 29' Joining contour / opening 30 Latching / jointing latch 31 Tulip Contact 31a, 31b Contact leg 32 Plant element D (rotational) axis K line / straight line L conductor entry direction P 1,2 Parallel line S (thigh) line QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2020 119 372 B4

[0004]

Claims

[1] Conductor terminal (1, 1') for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6, 6') and with a clamping spring (8, 8') forming a clamping point (5, 5') for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a, 6a') of the busbar (6, 6'), which has a clamping leg (7, 7') that can be moved from a clamping position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8, 8') has a spring section (8b, 8b') adjoining the clamping leg (7, 7') and arranged between opposing rail sections (6a, 6b, 6a', 6b') of the conductor rail (6, 6'), preferably clamping, with a contact leg (11, 11') and with a release leg (13, 13') actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3) and with a locking leg (14, 13') which is locked or lockable with the clamping leg (7, 7') in its open position. [2] Conductor terminal (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6) and with a clamping spring (8) forming a clamping point (5) for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a) of the busbar (6) and with an actuating element (9) for moving a clamping leg (7) of the clamping spring (8) from a clamping position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8) has a spring section (8b) adjoining the clamping leg (7) and arranged between opposing rail sections (6a, 6b) of the conductor rail (8) with a contact leg (11) and with a release leg (13) that can be actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3) and with a locking leg (14) that is locked or lockable with the clamping leg (7) in its open position. [3] Conductor terminal (1, 1') for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6, 6') and with a clamping spring (8, 8') forming a clamping point (5, 5') for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a, 6a') of the busbar (6, 6'), which has a clamping leg (7, 7') that can be moved from a clamping position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8, 8') has a spring section (8b, 8b') adjoining the clamping leg (7, 7') and arranged between opposing rail sections (6a, 6b, 6a', 6b') of the conductor rail (6, 6'), preferably clamping, with a contact leg (11, 11') and with a release leg (13, 13') actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3) as well as with a locking leg (14, 14') which is locked or lockable with the clamping leg (7, 7') in its open position, - wherein the release leg (13) is connected via a first bending section (12a) to the mounting leg (11) and the locking leg (14) is connected via a second bending section (12b) to a connecting leg (6c) which is connected to the release leg (13) via a third bending section (12c), or - wherein the locking leg (14') is connected to the mounting leg (11') via a first bending section (12a') and the release leg (13') is connected to a connecting leg (6c') via a second bending section (12b') which is connected to the locking leg (14') via a third bending section (12c'). [4] Conductor terminal (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6) and with a clamping spring (8) forming a clamping point (5) for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a) of the busbar (6), which has a clamping leg (7) that can be moved from a clamping position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8) has a spring section (8b) adjoining the clamping leg (7) and arranged between opposing rail sections (6a, 6b) of the conductor rail (6), preferably clamping, with a contact leg (11) and with a release leg (13) actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3), and with a locking leg (14) connected to the release leg (13) via a connecting leg (15), which is locked or lockable with the clamping leg (7) in its open position, and - wherein the rail section (6a) associated with the locking arm (14) has a bearing or support contour (20) stabilizing a bending area (12b) between the connecting arm (15) and the locking arm (14) in its locking connection with the clamping arm (7) and which can be overcome in the course of actuation of the release arm (13), and / or - wherein the rail section (6b) associated with the mounting leg (11) has a receiving contour (21) into which a bending area (12a) between the mounting leg (11) and the release leg (13) deflects or at least partially dips when the latter is actuated. [5] Conductor terminal (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6) and with a clamping spring (8) forming a clamping point (5) for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a) of the busbar (6), which has a clamping leg (7) that can be moved from a clamping position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8) has a spring section (8b) adjoining the clamping leg (7) and arranged between opposing rail sections (6a, 6b), in particular clamping, with a contact leg (11) and with a release leg (13) actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3) as well as with a locking leg (14) which is locked or lockable with the clamping leg (7) in its open position to form a locking point (18), and - wherein a contact point (22) of the contact leg (11) is located on the associated rail section (6b) and a bearing point (23) of the resting leg (14) is located on the opposite rail section (6a) and the resting point (18) is preferably at least approximately collinear. [6] Conductor terminal (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (3), comprising a housing (2) and a busbar (6), as well as a clamping spring (8) forming a clamping point (5) with the busbar (6) for clamping the conductor (3), and an actuating element (9) for moving a clamping leg (7) of the clamping spring (8) from a clamping position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8) has a spring section (8b) adjoining the clamping leg (7) with a contact leg (11) and with a release leg (13) angled relative to the latter and actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3) and with a locking leg (14) angled relative to the latter and / or spaced apart from or parallel to the release leg (13), which is locked to the clamping leg (7) in its open position to form a locking point (14), and - wherein the spring section (8b) is arranged between rail sections (6a, 6b) of the conductor rail (6) or between the conductor rail (6) and the housing (2), in particular clamping. [7] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping leg (13, 13') of the clamping spring (8, 8') is connected to the contact leg (11, 11') of the spring section (8b) via a spring arc (10, 10'). [8] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking leg (14, 14') of the clamping spring (8, 8') is spaced apart from the release leg (13, 13') or at least approximately parallel. [9] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the locking arm (14, 14') of the spring section (8b, 8b') has a passage opening (17, 17') for the electrical conductor (3) for actuating the release arm (13, 13'), and / or - wherein the locking leg (14, 14') of the spring section (8b, 8b') forms locking contours (16, 16') spaced apart from each other to create the locking connection between the clamping leg (7, 7') or its clamping edge (7a, 7a') and the locking leg (14, 14'). [10] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the (first) bending area (12a) between the release leg (13) and the contact leg (11) of the spring section (8b) is tapered and / or material-reduced. [11] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rail section (6b, 6b') associated with the contact leg (11, 11') of the spring section (8b, 8b') has a joining groove or joining opening (29, 33) into which a corresponding joining contour or joining element (28, 32) of the spring section (8b, 8b'), in particular of the contact leg (11, 11'), engages. [12] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the release leg (13, 13') of the spring section (8b, 8b') has a contact section (27, 27') in particular a tab- or edge-like form to prevent or limit a tilting movement of the electrical conductor (3). [13] Conductor terminal (1') according to one of the preceding claims, with a rail-side or housing-side support element (34) to prevent or limit a tilting movement of the electrical conductor and / or the release leg (13') of the spring section (8b'). [14] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating element (9) has a rotatably mounted actuating section (9a) which is coupled or can be coupled to the clamping leg (7) to move it into the open position. [15] Conductor terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating element (9) is coupled to a rotatably mounted return section (24) which is coupled or can be coupled to a return spring (25), in particular formed from the spring section (8b), for returning the return section (24) and / or an actuating section (9a) and / or the actuating element (9) to a starting position. [16] Conductor terminal (1, 1') for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6, 6') and with a clamping spring (8, 8') forming a clamping point (5, 5') for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a, 6a') of the busbar (6, 6'), which has a clamping leg (7, 7') that can be moved from a clamping position or closed position to an open position, - wherein the clamping spring (8, 8') has a spring section (8b, 8b') adjoining, in particular directly or indirectly, the clamping leg (7, 7'), - wherein the spring section (8b, 8b') is at least partially arranged between a first wall and a second wall, - wherein the spring section (8b, 8b') is formed in one piece or joined together in several pieces ◯ a limb (11, 11') and ◯ a release lever (13, 13') that can be actuated by means of the electrical conductor (3) and ◯ has a ratchet leg (14, 14'), - wherein the clamping leg (7, 7') is latched or lockable to the locking leg (14, 14') in the open position of the clamping leg (7, 7'), - wherein the first wall is formed by the or a first rail section of the conductor rail (6) or by a first wall section of a housing (2, 2') or by a first leg section of the clamping spring (8, 8') or by a clamping element, - wherein the second wall is formed by the or a second rail section (6b, 6b') of the busbar (6) or by a second wall section of the housing (2, 2') or by a second leg section of the clamping spring (8, 8') or by the or a clamping element, and - wherein the spring section (8b, 8b') in the detent of the clamping leg (7, 7') rests against the first wall and the second wall with the detent leg (14, 14'). [17] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to claim 16, - wherein the spring section (8b, 8b') has a connecting leg (15, 15') connecting the release leg (13, 13') and the locking leg (14, 14'), and / or - wherein the release leg (13, 13') and / or the locking leg (14, 14') and / or the connecting leg (15, 15') rests against the first wall. [18] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to claim 16 or 17, wherein at least the contact leg (13, 13') of the spring section (8b, 8b') rests against the second wall. [19] Conductor terminal (1, 1') for connecting an electrical conductor (3), with at least one busbar (6, 6') and with a clamping spring (8, 8') forming a clamping point (5, 5') for clamping the conductor (3) with a busbar section (6a, 6a') of the busbar (6, 6'), which has a clamping leg (7, 7') that can be moved from a clamping position or closed position to an open position, - wherein the clamping leg (7, 7') is latched or lockable with a locking element (16, 16'), in particular a locking leg (14, 14'), in the open position of the clamping leg (7, 7'), - wherein the locking element (16, 16') is mounted with a first bearing section on the busbar (6, 6') and / or on a spring section and / or on a housing section and / or on an actuating element, in particular pivotably, and - wherein the locking element (16, 16') is supported with a second bearing section on the busbar (6, 6') and / or on a spring section and / or on a housing section and / or at least in the locking with the clamping leg (7, 7') in the open position on an actuating element. [20] Conductor terminal (1, 1') according to claim 19, wherein the second bearing section is designed such that the locking element (16, 16') loses contact with the second bearing section when the locking element (16, 16') is pivoted out of the locking position in the open position. [21] Clamping spring (8, 8'), in particular for a conductor terminal (1, 1') according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first spring section (8a, 8a') having a clamping leg (7, 7') and a second spring section (8b, 8b') connected or coupled to the first spring section (8a, 8a') via a contact leg (13, 13'), which has a locking leg (14, 14') for forming a locking connection with the clamping leg (7, 7') and a release leg (13, 13') for releasing the locking connection, - wherein the locking arm (14, 14') and the release arm (13, 13') are spaced apart from each other, in particular oriented parallel to each other, and / or - wherein the locking arm (14, 14') and / or the release arm (13, 13') runs transversely to the mounting arm (11, 11'), and / or - wherein the locking leg (14) is formed on the mounting leg (11) via the release leg (13), or - wherein the release leg (13') is formed onto the mounting leg (11') via the locking leg (14').

Images