CONNECTOR

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The invention relates to a connecting element for receiving a contact element for mediating an electrical contact between two busbars according to claim 1. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Connecting elements for the electrical connection of two conductor elements, such as two parallel busbars, are known from the prior art.

[0003] Furthermore, a large number of such contact elements are known from the prior art. For example, the applicant's corresponding products should be mentioned here.

[0004] Busbars are used in vehicles, for example, as fixed electrical conductors that are then electrically connected to other components, such as an inverter module. Busbars can be used in passenger cars, trucks, public transport vehicles, and e-bikes. With the use of hybrid engines, which are powered by both fossil fuels and electricity, busbars are widely used in passenger cars. They have also been increasingly used as contacts in the drive systems of e-bikes.

[0005] Numerous connection solutions for busbars are known from the prior art. For example, busbars are connected using screws, which must ensure high clamping forces because the contact points are insufficiently defined by surface contact alone. For this reason, a contact plate is now used between the two busbars to improve electrical contact.

[0006] However, the prior art has the disadvantage that the screw connection between the two busbars and the contact plate is very complex, which is particularly undesirable in the automotive industry, where short production cycle times are required. CH 702 863 A1 discloses a connecting element according to the preamble of claim 1. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Based on the prior art, the invention is based on the objective of providing a connecting element for connecting two busbars that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. Furthermore, a further preferred objective of the present invention is to provide a connecting element that is simple and economical to manufacture.

[0008] The connecting element according to claim 1 solves such a problem. Accordingly, a connecting element for mediating an electrical contact between two busbars comprises a housing with an interior space and a contact element mounted in the interior space. Each of the two busbars can be inserted into the housing along an insertion direction. The contact element divides the interior space along the plane into at least a first receiving space for receiving a first busbar and a second receiving space for receiving a second busbar. The contact element mediates an electrical contact between the first busbar and the second busbar. The contact element is mounted by several bearing points in the interior space of the housing.At least one of the bearing points projects from a side wall into the interior, wherein the side wall lies in a transverse plane oriented perpendicular to the plane, and wherein the bearing point provides a movement limitation for the contact element in at least one translational direction.

[0009] This arrangement of the bearing point offers the advantage that the other walls of the housing remain largely unweakened, as no bearing points protrude from them. Furthermore, it minimizes the number of bearing points obstructing the two receiving areas, which could potentially interfere with the insertion process of the busbars. Finally, it simplifies the stamping process, thus reducing manufacturing costs.

[0010] By dividing the interior space with the contact element, a structure can be created that allows for easy and straightforward insertion of the respective busbar.

[0011] Preferably, the translation direction in question is essentially perpendicular to the plane in question. This means that the movement of the contact element is limited both towards and away from the plane. This is advantageous for the load on the bearing point because, due to its projection from the side wall oriented in the transverse plane, it can be designed to be more robust. This allows, for example, an increase in the number of mating cycles.

[0012] Particularly preferably, all bearing points that provide a limitation of movement in the said translation direction perpendicular to the said plane project from the said side wall, which is oriented in the said transverse plane.

[0013] The term "busbar" refers to a rigid contact element, preferably with a substantially rectangular cross-section. The size of the cross-section and the length of the busbar are irrelevant for the application of the connecting element.

[0014] The term "movement limitation" means that the bearing points provide a stop that limits the movement of the contact element in the corresponding direction. This limitation can be such that no movement of the contact element is permitted, or that a clearance is created within which the contact element can move. Preferably, the contact element is floating, i.e., mounted with clearance, in said bearing point.

[0015] Preferably, one of the bearing points is a double bearing point which, starting from a central position of the contact element, provides a limitation of movement for the contact element in two opposing translational directions.

[0016] The aforementioned double bearing point thus provides, on its own, a limitation of movement in two opposing translational directions. This means that with a single bearing point, the movement of the contact element connected to the bearing point can be limited in two translational directions.

[0017] By incorporating at least one double bearing point, which provides the necessary movement limitation, a suitable support can be achieved very simply using a double bearing point. This means that the double bearing point provides support in two degrees of freedom, representing an advantageous dual function.

[0018] The double bearing also offers advantages in manufacturing and operation, as a single bearing provides the necessary movement limitation. This eliminates the need to align two different elements.

[0019] The expression "two opposing translation directions" means that the two translation directions run in opposite directions. The bearing points thus provide a limitation of movement starting from a central position of the contact element in both the positive and negative translation directions, whereby the positive and negative translation directions run in the same axis but in opposite directions to each other.

[0020] At least two of the aforementioned bearing points are single bearing points, which, starting from a central position of the contact element, provide a movement limitation for the contact element in a translational direction.

[0021] The same housing can accommodate both double bearing points, single bearing points, or exclusively single bearing points.

[0022] In a first embodiment, at least three, preferably four, double bearing points are arranged. Two double bearing points project into the interior from the same side. One or two double bearing points project into the interior from a side wall opposite said side wall.

[0023] Preferably, all double bearing points in the first embodiment are similar to each other, such that, starting from a central position of the contact element, they provide a limitation of movement for the contact element in two opposite translational directions.

[0024] In a second embodiment, at least one double bearing point and at least two single bearing points are present. At least one double bearing point projects into the interior from a first side wall. At least two single bearing points project into the interior from a side wall opposite the first side wall. One of the two single bearing points limits the movement in one translational direction, and the other of the two single bearing points limits the movement in the opposite translational direction.

[0025] In a third embodiment, four simple bearing points are provided. At least two simple bearing points project into the interior from a first side wall, with one of the two simple bearing points limiting movement in one of the translational directions and the other of the two simple bearing points limiting movement in the opposite translational direction. At least two simple bearing points project into the interior from a side wall opposite the first side wall, with one of the two simple bearing points limiting movement in one of the translational directions and the other of the two simple bearing points limiting movement in the opposite translational direction.

[0026] Preferably, in all embodiments, two bearing points are arranged opposite each other with respect to the interior space. These two opposing bearing points, starting from a central position of the contact element, provide a limitation of movement for the contact element in two opposing second translational directions, the second translational direction being essentially transverse to the insertion direction and parallel to the plane. That is, the bearing points provide a limitation of movement for the contact element with respect to the first translational direction, which is preferably oriented essentially perpendicular to the plane, and with respect to the second translational direction, which is oriented essentially transverse to the longitudinal axis or the insertion direction and parallel to the plane.

[0027] In the case of double bearings, the two groups of bearing points are arranged such that they jointly provide the movement limitation in the corresponding first and second directions. With respect to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, one group provides a movement limitation from a starting position in the positive direction and the opposite negative direction.

[0028] Preferably, the double bearing point has a slot for receiving parts of a carrier strip of the contact element. In particular, edge areas of the contact element, especially of the carrier strip or the entire carrier strip, project into the slot of the bearing point and are supported there accordingly.

[0029] The slot provides the limitation of movement in both directions.

[0030] Preferably, the slot is wider than the thickness of the contact element, particularly the carrier strip, in one direction perpendicular to said plane, such that clearance is provided between the slot and the contact element. This means that the contact element is supported in the slot with clearance in the second direction. As mentioned, the slot provides the boundary of movement, and the contact element can move within this boundary of movement, within the scope of the clearance provided.

[0031] Each single bearing point is provided by a bearing surface. The contact element rests on the bearing surface.

[0032] Preferably, the slots or bearing surfaces within a group of bearing points are arranged offset from one another with respect to the plane. This offset arrangement allows the contact element to lie at a slight inclination within the interior, which facilitates the insertion of the busbars.

[0033] Furthermore, the bearing surfaces are arranged such that those located closer to an access opening (viewed in the insertion direction) are at a greater distance from the wall that comes into contact with the busbar than those located further away. Particularly preferably, the slots are arranged such that those located closer to an access opening (viewed in the insertion direction) are at a greater distance from the wall that comes into contact with the busbar than those located further away.

[0034] Preferably, in all embodiments, the bearing points are ribs bent outwards from the housing and projecting into the interior, with the ribs extending from a side wall of the housing. The ribs are integrally connected to the housing and are plastically deformed to achieve their position.

[0035] Preferably, the slot is arranged at the free end of the web and extends into the web at an end face that closes off the free end. The slot is open at this end face, meaning that the contact element can be inserted into the slot via the end face. The bearing surface is also preferably arranged at the free end of the web.

[0036] Preferably, the webs are inclined at an angle to the longitudinal axis, the angle being between 10° and 170°, in particular between 30° and 150°.

[0037] Preferably, the contact element is floating in the interior in two opposing third translation directions, which run parallel to the insertion direction, so that the contact element is movable in this third translation direction within defined limits, wherein limits are provided by a stop.

[0038] Preferably, the housing is provided by a wall, two side walls formed on opposite edges of the wall and projecting substantially perpendicularly from the wall, and by side edges formed on the side walls.

[0039] Preferably, the bearing points or the webs are integrally formed on the housing as described above and project from the side walls into the interior, with the bearing points preferably being bent outwards from the side walls.

[0040] Preferably, the housing has one or more mounting openings, which are preferably arranged such that a tool can access the carrier strips. The one or more mounting openings penetrate the housing in such a way that a tool can reach into the interior from the outside.

[0041] Preferably, the contact element, in particular the carrier strip, has one or more mounting openings into which a tool can engage. The contact element can then be positioned inside the building via this engagement.

[0042] Preferably, the housing is made of a metallic material and is preferably manufactured using a stamping and forming process. The housing is preferably formed in one piece.

[0043] Further optional features and benefits are described below.

[0044] Preferably, the spring-loaded contact bridge exerts a restoring force against the respective busbar when it mediates the electrical contact between the busbars. This creates a permanent and defined electrical contact.

[0045] Preferably, the contact element is arranged such that it lies between the first busbar and the second busbar when the busbars protrude into the respective receiving space.

[0046] The contact element is preferably mounted in a floating manner within the interior, allowing it to move or shift perpendicular to the plane of the first or second receiving space within defined limits provided by the bearing(s). These defined limits can, for example, be understood as compensating for tolerances. The floating mounting has the advantage that tolerances are automatically compensated.

[0047] The contact element can be designed in various ways. It is important that the contact element has spring-loaded contact points so that a permanent contact between the busbars can be established.

[0048] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the contact element is designed as follows. The contact element comprises two support strips running parallel to each other and along a longitudinal axis, and at least one resilient contact bridge connecting the two support strips. The support strips define a substantially flat plane that divides the interior into the two receiving spaces.

[0049] The particularly preferred contact element preferably comprises a plurality of contact bridges which are connected to at least one carrier strip lying in the plane, wherein the contact bridges are connected to the at least one carrier strip in such a way that they are resiliently movable relative to the strip, in particular rotatable or pivotable. Preferably, the contact bridges are at an angle to the plane, wherein the contact element is located in the interior such that the angle decreases during the insertion of the busbar into the respective receiving space, and wherein the contact bridges are preferably parallel to each other. Furthermore, viewed from the plane, the contact bridges extend to both sides of the plane and project beyond the respective side of the plane. Preferably, the contact bridges are connected to the at least one carrier strip via torsion spring joints.

[0050] A preferred embodiment of the connecting element is characterized in that the two receiving spaces each have at least one access opening into which the respective busbar projects into the corresponding receiving space, wherein the first receiving space is accessible from a first side via a first access opening and the second receiving space is accessible from a second side via a second access opening, wherein the first side is preferably arranged opposite the second side.

[0051] A further preferred embodiment of the connecting element is characterized in that each receiving space has at least one stop element which is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the contact element at a distance from the contact element, wherein the respective busbar abuts the stop element and wherein a force is exerted from the contact element by means of the spring-loaded contact webs, which presses the busbar against the respective stop element.

[0052] Preferably, the stop element has the shape of said wall or said side edge.

[0053] A further preferred embodiment of the connecting element is characterized in that the housing further comprises at least one stop element for busbars, wherein the at least one stop element projects into the access opening in such a way that the busbar, which does not pass through the respective access opening, abuts the stop element.

[0054] Another preferred embodiment of the connecting element is characterized by the fact that the housing has guide elements in the area of ​​the access openings, which facilitate the insertion of the busbar.

[0055] A further preferred embodiment of the connecting element is characterized by the fact that the distance between the contact element and the housing in the first receiving space is equal to the distance between the contact element and the housing in the second receiving space, or that the distance between the contact element and the housing in the first receiving space is smaller or larger than the distance between the contact element and the housing in the second receiving space.

[0056] An arrangement comprises a connecting element as described above, a first busbar and a second busbar arranged parallel to the first busbar, wherein the first busbar projects into the first receiving space and the second busbar projects into the second receiving space, wherein an electrical contact is mediated between the two busbars by the contact element arranged between the first receiving space and the second receiving space.

[0057] Further embodiments are specified in the dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which serve only for illustration and are not to be interpreted restrictively. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a connecting element according to an embodiment of the present invention without busbars from above; Fig. 2 a perspective view of the connecting element according to Figure 1 from below; Fig. 3 a sectional view through the connecting element after Figure 1 without busbars; Fig. 4 a sectional view through the connecting element according to Figure 1 with busbars; Fig. 5a a partial sectional view through the connecting element according to Figure 1 with a bearing point designed as a double bearing point; Fig. 5 leg partial sectional view through the connecting element according to Figure 1 with a bearing point designed as a single bearing point; Fig. 6 a perspective view of the connecting element according to Fig. 1 with busbars not yet inserted; Fig. 7 the view after Figure 6with inserted busbars; Fig. 8 a perspective view of a further embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 9 a further perspective view according to Figure 8 . DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0059] In the Figure 1 and 2 A connecting element 1 is shown, with which an electrical contact between two busbars can be established. The connecting element essentially comprises a housing 2 and a contact element 3 arranged in the housing 2, via which the electrical contact between the busbars can be established.

[0060] The Figures 3 and 4Figure 1 shows the cross-section of the connecting element 1. The housing 2 essentially comprises an interior space 20 accessible from the outside, which is divided by the contact element 3 into a first receiving space 21 and a second receiving space 22. The interior space 20 is bounded by a wall 240, two side walls 242 formed on opposite edges of the wall 240 and projecting essentially perpendicularly from the wall 240, and side edges 241 formed on the side walls 242. In other words, the wall 240, the side walls 242, and the side edges 241 provide a tunnel-like interior space 20, which is accessible via openings 28 and 29 arranged opposite each other. The tunnel-like interior space 20 can also be completely enclosed by a surrounding side wall, in which case the side edges 241 are also formed as a wall.The openings 28 and 29 are interconnected and also provide access to the interior. The wall 240 and the side edges 241 each run in a flat plane and are spaced apart from each other, the distance defining the clear width L of the interior. Preferably, the interior is cuboid.

[0061] The two receiving compartments 21 and 22 primarily serve to accommodate the respective busbars 4 and 5. The first receiving compartment 21 is accessible through a first access opening 28, and the second receiving compartment 22 is accessible through a second access opening 29. The busbars 4 and 5 are routed into the respective receiving compartments via these access openings 28 and 29.

[0062] The contact element 3 lies in a plane or defines a plane 39 which extends at least partially through the interior 20. The plane 39 is preferably located centrally between the two busbars and extends parallel, substantially parallel, or slightly inclined at an angle to them. In other words, the plane 39 preferably extends centrally through the contact element 3.

[0063] The contact element 3 shown in the figures is a possible example of a particularly preferred contact element. However, it is also conceivable that other contact elements could be used which also extend in a plane and include spring-loaded contact areas.

[0064] Based on the Figures 3 to 5 The storage of the contact element inside will now be explained in more detail.

[0065] The contact element 3 is held in the interior 20 by bearing points 23. The bearing points 23 are preferably formed integrally with the housing and project into the interior 20. In the illustrated embodiment, double bearing points are shown.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing points 23 are designed such that, starting from a central position of the contact element 3, they provide a limitation of movement for the contact element 3 in two opposing translational directions R1, R1'. That is, the contact element 3 is mounted in the bearing points 23 such that it is held either rigidly within the limitation of movement or within a clearance provided by the bearing point 23.

[0067] This design ensures that the contact element 3 is supported in the bearing point 23 in two opposing directions.

[0068] The translation directions R1, R1' are formed opposite each other and run essentially perpendicular to plane 39.

[0069] In the present embodiment, two sets of two bearing points 23 are arranged opposite each other in the interior, wherein these two opposing bearing points 23, starting from a central position of the contact element 3, provide a limitation of movement for the contact element in two opposing second translation directions R2, R2'. The second translation direction R2, R2' runs essentially transversely to the insertion direction and parallel to the plane 39.

[0070] Regarding the number of bearing positions 23, a total of four bearing positions 23 are arranged here, with each group of two bearing positions 23 projecting into the interior 20 from the same side. Two groups of two bearing positions 23 each are arranged opposite each other with respect to the interior 20.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing point 23 has a slot 230, which is designed to receive parts of the carrier strip 31. Figure 5a It can be clearly seen how an edge area of ​​the carrier tape 31 protrudes into the slot 230.

[0072] In the Figure 5b An alternative variant of the storage location is shown, wherein the alternative variant of the storage location comprises a storage area 236 which provides the movement limitation.

[0073] In the illustrated variant, the slot 230 is wider than the thickness of the carrier strip in one direction, perpendicular to the aforementioned plane. The width is such that clearance is provided between the slot and the carrier strip. This means that the carrier strip 31, and thus also the contact element 3, can move within this clearance in the slot 230. This clearance has the advantage that the contact element 3 is slightly pushed away from the first busbar when it is inserted and pressed back against the first busbar when the second busbar is inserted. This compensates for tolerances in the thickness of the busbars 4 and 5, or in the clear width of the receiving spaces, thus ensuring that the contact element 3 is always centered between the two busbars 4 and 5 during contacting.

[0074] Alternatively, the slot 230 could also have the same thickness as the carrier band 31, so that no play is created.

[0075] Of the Figure 3 It can be clearly seen that the slots 230 within a group of bearing points 23 are arranged offset from each other with respect to the plane 39. The slot 230 on the left is higher than the slot 230 on the right.

[0076] Preferably, the slots 230 located closer to an access opening 28, 29 in the insertion direction E1, E2 are situated at a greater distance A1, A2 from the wall 240 that comes into contact with the busbar 4, 5 than the slots located further away from the access opening 28, 29. Such an arrangement simplifies the insertion of the busbars 4, 5 because the contact element is situated at a slight incline in the interior 20.

[0077] The bearing points 23 are designed here as webs which are bent into the interior 20. In the present embodiment, the bearing points 23 are provided as parts of the side wall 242 and project from the side wall 242.

[0078] The slot 230 is located at the free end 231 of the web and extends into the web at an end face 232 that closes off the free end 231. The slot is open in the end face 232.

[0079] The webs are inclined at an angle to the longitudinal axis L, with the angle being between 10° and 170°, in particular 30° to 150°.

[0080] Furthermore, the contact element 3 is floatingly mounted in the interior 20 in two opposing third translation directions R3, R3', which run parallel to the insertion direction E1, E2 and to the longitudinal direction L, respectively, so that the contact element 3 is movable in this third translation direction R3, R3' within defined limits, the limits being provided by a stop 234. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop 234 is provided by the insertion aid 281 or 291.

[0081] Housing 2 shows, as particularly in the Figure 2 and 5 The figure shows several mounting openings 233, which are preferably arranged such that access for a tool to the support strips 31 is provided. Furthermore, the support strip 31 preferably also has mounting openings in the plane into which a tool can engage. The mounting openings 235 are located in the Figure 5 depicted.

[0082] The Figures 4 , 6 and 7 Figure 1 shows the connecting element 1, which connects to a first busbar 4 and a second busbar 5. Both busbars 4 and 5 have a rectangular cross-section and extend along longitudinal axes A1 and A2, respectively. In the present embodiment, the respective longitudinal axes A1 and A2 run parallel to and offset from each other. Furthermore, axes A1 and A2 are arranged parallel to the aforementioned plane 39. The busbars can be identical in size or have different thicknesses or widths. Each of the two busbars has an end face 40, 50, two side walls 41, 51, a contact surface 42, 52 facing the contact element 3, and a surface 43, 53 facing the housing 2. The contact surfaces 42, 52 are designed as recessed surfaces.

[0083] In the present embodiments, the contact element 3 is represented as a contact lamella comprising two support bands 31 extending along a longitudinal axis and a plurality of contact webs 32 arranged one behind the other. The contact webs 32 are connected to the support bands 31 on both sides. The support bands 31 essentially define the aforementioned plane 39. The contact webs 32 are resiliently designed, here via a torsion section in the area of ​​the connection with the support band 31. The torsion section can, for example, be referred to as a torsion spring joint 34. The design of the contact element 3 can also be different. In other embodiments, the contact element 3 should have resilient elements which exert a spring force perpendicular to the support band 31 or to the longitudinal direction A or B.to level 39, so that the two busbars are pressed away from each other against a respective stop by the spring elements, as described below. It should be ensured, however, that the contact bridges 32 are always in contact with both busbars 4, 5, so that a large number of defined contact points can be provided.

[0084] The two busbars 4, 5 extend parallel and offset from each other, at least in the area where they project into the housing 2, so that a gap is created between the two busbars in which the contact element 3 is located. This means that the contact surfaces 42, 52 run essentially parallel to the plane 39. The contact surfaces 42, 52 of the busbars 4, 5 are in contact with the contact ribs 32, meaning that the contact ribs 32 rest on both the contact surface 42 of the first busbar 4 and the contact surface 52 of the second busbar 5, thus mediating the electrical contact between the two busbars 4, 5.

[0085] The term "power rail" can refer to any element extending along a central axis that conducts electric current. Such power rails are used, for example, to transmit energy in vehicles such as hybrid cars or public transport vehicles. Currents in the range of 100 to 1000 amperes are transmitted in this application. Lower currents are also conceivable, particularly in the case of electric bicycles.

[0086] The term "spring-like" can refer to the action of a spring force or restoring force. This restoring force acts on the contact bridge when it is moved from its original position to a working or contact position. In other words, the restoring force acts as a contact force when the contact bridges make contact with the busbars.

[0087] Since the contact element 3 is located centrally between the two busbars 4 and 5, it can also be said that the carrier strips 31 lie in, or define, the plane 39. The contact webs 32 extend both above and below the plane 39 when viewed from the plane 39 or the carrier strip 31. In other words, the contact webs 32 extend or protrude on both sides of the plane 39 or the carrier strip 31, at least when not in contact.

[0088] The contact bridges 32 are arranged at an angle α to the plane 39 or to the carrier strip 31. Preferably, the angle α is between 20° and 70°, particularly preferably between 30° and 60°. Preferably, all contact bridges 32 are arranged at the same angle to the carrier strip. This means that all contact bridges 32 are parallel to each other, at least in the non-contacting state.

[0089] The contact element 2 is made of a material that conducts electrical current, such as spring bronze or a copper alloy.

[0090] In the Figure 4 A sectional view of the connecting element 1 with inserted busbars 4, 5 is shown and in the Figure 3 A sectional view of connecting element 1 without busbars is shown.

[0091] Each of the receiving spaces 21, 22 of the housing has at least one stop element 24, which is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the plane 39 and spaced apart from the contact element 3. The respective busbar rests against the stop element 24 and is pushed away from the contact element 3 by a force provided by the spring-loaded contact bridges 32. This pushes the respective busbar against the corresponding stop element 24.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the stop element 24 has, on the one hand, the shape of a wall 240 and, on the other hand, the shape of a side edge 241. The wall 240 serves as a stop element for the second busbar 5, and the two side edges 241 serve as stop elements for the first busbar 4.

[0093] The wall 240 can also be referred to as the housing wall, wherein two side walls 242 extend essentially perpendicularly from the wall at two opposite edges, with a side edge 241 being formed at the free end of each side wall 242.

[0094] Each of the two receiving spaces 21, 22 has a clear width L1, L2, which is smaller than the thickness of the respective busbar 4, 5. The clear width is defined as the distance between the upper edge 33 or lower edge 35 of the contact bridge 32 and the stop element 24. By choosing the smaller clear width, the spring action of the contact bridges 32 during connection is ensured. The clear width is therefore defined by the thickness of the busbar to be inserted.

[0095] When the first busbar 4 is inserted, the contact element 3 is slightly lifted due to its floating mounting, with the contact ribs 32 not yet compressing or only compressing slightly. When the second busbar 5 is subsequently inserted, the contact ribs 32 are twisted, as the busbar 5 rotates each contact rib over its upper edge 33. This twisting occurs at the torsion spring joints 34 of the contact lamella or contact element 3. Due to the arrangement of the torsion spring joint 34, a constant force acts on the first busbar 4 and the second busbar 5, as described above, because the contact lamellae, due to the preload force from the torsion spring joints 34, tend to return to their original position.In other words, this means that when the second power rail 5 is inserted, the first busbar 4 is pressed against the stop 24 by a force provided by the torsion spring joints 34.

[0096] Depending on the dimensions, it is also possible that when the first busbar 4 is inserted, the contact bridges 32 are twisted, as the busbar 4 moves each of the contact bridges over the lower edge 35.

[0097] When the second busbar 5 is inserted, when the first busbar 4 is already in the first receiving space 21, the second busbar 5 contacts the contact bridges 32 via the upper edge 33. The dimensions of the busbars 4, 5 are chosen such that a force provided by the torsion spring joints 34 always acts on both busbars 4, 5 and always pushes them outwards, i.e. against the stop elements 24.

[0098] Regardless of the designation of the two busbars, it is also possible that the second busbar 5 is inserted before the first busbar 4, whereby the processes described above apply equally.

[0099] The contact element 3 is arranged in the interior such that, when the busbars are inserted, the angle α between the contact ribs 32 and the carrier strip is reduced. The contact ribs 32 are positioned relative to the busbar such that the busbar presses the respective contact rib 32 towards the carrier strip 31 or the plane 39 via a pivoting movement. During insertion, the busbar 4, 5, with the edge formed by the end face 40 and the contact surface 42, contacts the edge-facing surface of the contact rib 32 and then presses it against the carrier strip, with the contact rib 32 bearing against the contact surface 42 via the corresponding upper edge 33 or lower edge 35.

[0100] In other words, the two busbars 4, 5 are pushed away from each other by the torsion spring joints 34 and the contact bridges 32, with the busbars 4, 5 bearing against the respective stop elements 24. The dimensions of the busbars 4, 5, the receiving spaces 21, 22, and the contact element 3 are selected such that a force is exerted on the busbars 4, 5 from the contact element 3 at essentially all times. This is achieved by ensuring that the distance between the two busbars in the housing state is smaller than the distance between the upper edge 33 and the lower edge 35 of the contact bridges, viewed perpendicular to the busbars.

[0101] Due to the stability of the housing 2, this force remains constant throughout its service life, which is a great advantage with regard to the defined contact between contact bridges 32 and the respective contact surfaces 42, 52 of the busbars 4, 5. A defined contact is a prerequisite for achieving good and constant transmission of electrical energy throughout the entire service life.

[0102] In the direction of the respective longitudinal axis A1 or A2, the respective receiving space is limited by a corresponding limiting element 27. The limiting element 27 extends from the respective stop elements 24 essentially perpendicularly or at an angle, so that the respective receiving space 21, 22 is limited by the limiting element 27. The limiting element 27 has essentially two functions. On the one hand, the limiting elements 27 provide a stop for the busbars 4, 5.

[0103] In the area of ​​the access openings 28, 29, insertion aids 280 and 290 can also be provided. Both insertion aids 280, 290 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A, so that the clear width of the access openings 28, 29 increases towards the end of the access opening 28, 29 when viewed from the interior 20, so that when the respective busbar is inserted, the cross-section, i.e., the clear width, decreases continuously. Lateral insertion aids 281, 291 in the form of tabs can be arranged to the left and right of the interior 20.

[0104] In the embodiment shown, the respective insertion aids 280, 281, 290, 291 are connected to the corresponding limiting element 27.

[0105] Preferably, the housing 2 is made of a metallic material so that its stability remains constant throughout its service life. Choosing a metallic material also has the advantage that heat can be dissipated from the contact area between the two busbars. In this respect, the housing also acts as a cooling element. The housing can be manufactured, for example, from sheet metal by stamping, bending, and / or forming.

[0106] However, suitable plastics can also be used, although attention must be paid to dimensional stability, as deformation of the housing over time can have a negative impact on the quality of the electrical contact.

[0107] The housing 2 not only serves to provide the stop elements in the direction perpendicular to the plane, but also ensures the guidance and positioning of the two busbars.

[0108] Preferably, the connection is made as follows. In a first step, the connecting element is slid over the first busbar 4 so that it can protrude into the first receiving space 21. The contact lugs 32 are moved from their original position by a pivoting motion. In a second step, the second busbar 5 can be slid into the second receiving space, whereupon the second busbar 5 also makes contact with the contact lugs.

[0109] Alternatively, the connection can also be made in reverse order, whereby the connecting element is first pushed over the second busbar 5 so that it protrudes into the second receiving space 22, and then the first busbar 4 is inserted into the first receiving space 21. When the first busbar 4 is inserted, the contact lugs 32 are then rotated or pivoted from their original position by a pivoting movement as described above.

[0110] The Figure 8 and 9 Figure 1 shows a further embodiment of the present invention. Identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals, and reference is made to the description above.

[0111] In addition, the further embodiment includes a positioning tab 300 projecting from the housing 2. The positioning tab 300 serves as an element for positioning the housing 2 in a higher-level system, so that the housing 2 assumes the correct position.

[0112] Furthermore, the contact element 3 is inserted into the housing 2 using a different method. This eliminates the need for mounting openings in both the housing 2 and the contact element 3. The contact element 3 is drawn into the interior 20 using a tool and then comes into contact with the pre-formed bearing surfaces 23 inside the interior 20. The contact element 3 is drawn in the direction of R3 or R3'.

[0113] Once the contact element 3 is located in the interior 20, the stops 234 and the funnel-shaped tabs 237 molded onto them are bent, so that the connecting element 1 is also secured in the interior 20 with respect to movement in the direction of R3 or R3'. The funnel-shaped tabs 237 are optional, meaning that they could also be omitted in the second embodiment. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0114] 1 Connecting element 2 Housing 230 slot 3 Contact element 231 free ending 4 first power rail 232 Front 5 second power rail 233 Mounting openings 234 stop 20 interior 235 Mounting openings 21 first recording room 236 Storage area 22 second recording room 237 Funnel tabs 23 Storage facilities 24 Stop element 240 Wall 27 Boundary element 241 sidebar 28 first access point 242 side wall 29 second access opening 280 insertion aids 31 Carrier band 290 insertion aids 32 Contact bridges 281 lateral insertion aids 33 top edge 291 lateral insertion aids 34 Torsion spring joint 35 lower edge 300 Positioning tab 39 level L Spacious interior 40 Front L1 Brightness of the first recording rooms 41 side walls 42 Contact surface L2 Clear width of second recording room 43 surface 50 Front 51 side walls E1 Insertion direction 52 Contact surface E2 Insertion direction 53 surface

Claims

1. A connection element (1) for establishing an electrical contact between two busbars, wherein the connection element (1) comprises a housing (2) with an interior (20) and a contact element (3), which is mounted in the interior (20), wherein each of the two busbars can be inserted into the housing (2) along an inserting direction (E1, E2); wherein the contact element (3) divides the interior (20) along a plane (39) into at least one first receiving space (21) to receive a first busbar (4) and a second receiving space (22) to receive a second busbar (5), wherein the contact element (3) can establish an electrical contact between the first busbar (4) and the second busbar (5), wherein the contact element (3) is mounted by several bearing points (23) in the interior (20) of the housing (2), wherein at least one of the bearing points (23) protrudes from a side wall (242) into the interior (20), wherein the bearing point for the contact element (3) providing a movement limitation in at least one translatory direction (R1, R1'), characterized in that the side wall (242) lying in a transverse plane (Q) oriented transversely to the plane (39), in that at least two of the mentioned bearing points (23) are single bearing points, which starting from a middle position of the contact element (3) provides a movement limitation for the contact element (3) in one translatory direction (R1, R1'), in that the mentioned single bearing points are provided by a bearing surface, and in that the bearing surfaces lying closer to an entrance opening (28, 29), as seen in the inserting direction (E1, E2), are situated at a greater distance (A1, A2) from the wall (240) coming into contact with the busbar (4, 5) than the bearing surfaces lying further away from the entrance opening (28, 29).

2. The connection element (1) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said translatory direction (R1, R1') runs substantially at right angles to the plane (39), wherein the contact element is mounted preferably floating in said bearing point; and / or the bearing surfaces within one group of bearing points (23) are offset from each other with respect to the plane (39)..

3. The connection element (1) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that one of said bearing points (23) is a double bearing point, which starting from a middle position of the contact element (3) provides a movement limitation for the contact element (3) in two oppositely running translatory directions (R1, R1').

4. The connection element (1) as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that at least three, preferably four, double bearing points (23) are arranged, wherein two double bearing points (23) protrude from a first side wall into the interior (20), and wherein one double bearing point (23) or two double bearing points (23) protrude from a side wall situated opposite the first side wall (242) into the interior (20); or in that from a first side wall (242) at least one double bearing point protrudes into the interior (20) and in that from a side wall situated opposite the first side wall (242) at least two single bearing points protrude into the interior (20), wherein one of the two single bearing points limits the movement in one of the translatory directions (R1) and wherein the other of the two single bearing points limits the movement in the opposite translatory direction (R1'); or in that from a first side wall (242) at least two single bearing points protrude into the interior (20), wherein one of the two single bearing points limits the movement in one of the translatory directions (R1) and wherein the other of the two single bearing points limits the movement in the opposite translatory direction (R1'), and in that from a side wall situated opposite the first side wall (242) at least two single bearing points protrude into the interior (20), wherein one of the two single bearing points limits the movement in one of the translatory directions (R1) and wherein the other of the two single bearing points limits the movement in the opposite translatory direction (R1').

5. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that two bearing points (23) opposite each other with respect to the interior are present, wherein these two oppositely situated bearing points (23) starting from a middle position of the contact element (3) provide a movement limitation for the contact element in two oppositely running second translatory directions (R2, R2'), the second translatory direction running substantially transversely to the inserting direction and parallel to the plane (39).

6. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the double bearing point (23) has a slot (230) to receive the contact element (3).

7. The connection element (1) as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that the slot (230) in one direction at right angles to said plane is configured broader than the thickness of the contact element, such that a play is provided between the slot and the contact element.

8. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the slots (230) or the bearing surface within one group of bearing points (23) are offset from each other with respect to the plane (39).

9. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the slots (230) lying closer to an entrance opening (28, 29), as seen in the inserting direction (E1, E2), are situated at a greater distance (A1, A2) from the wall (240) coming into contact with the busbar (4, 5) than the slots lying further away from the entrance opening (28, 29).

10. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bearing points (23) are webs bent out from the housing (2) and protruding into the interior (20), the webs being inclined preferably at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis (L), the angle being between 10° and 170°.

11. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims 6 to 10, characterized in that the slot (230) is arranged at the free end (231) of the web and extends into the web at an end face (232) closing off the free end, the slot (230) being open in the end face (232), and / or in that the bearing surface is arranged at the free end (231) of the web.

12. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact element (3) is mounted floating in the interior (20) in two third translatory directions (R3, R3') running opposite to each other, extending parallel to the inserting direction (E1, E2), so that the contact element can move in this third translatory direction (R3, R3') within certain limits, limits being provided by an end stop (234).

13. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (2) is provided by a wall (240), two side walls (242) formed at opposite edges from the wall (240) and protruding substantially perpendicular from the wall (240), and by side edges (241) formed on the side walls (242).

14. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (2) has one or more installation openings (233), which are preferably arranged such that access to the contact element (3) for a tool can be provided and / or in that the contact element (3) has one or more installation openings (235) in which a tool can engage.

15. The connection element (1) as claimed in one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (2) has guide elements (280, 281, 290, 291) in the area of the entrance openings, making it easier to insert the busbar and / or in that the end stop is part of the guide elements (280, 281, 290, 291).