Surge protection device, surge protection modules with such a surge protection device, and method for mounting a surge protection module

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a surge protection device for protecting a low-voltage supply system of a building against overvoltages. The surge protection device comprises a base body, on which an interface is provided for electrically and mechanically coupling the surge protection device to a busbar system comprising several busbars, and a receiving area arranged on the base body, in which an electrical attachment can be optionally accommodated.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention is directed to a surge protection assembly comprising such a surge protection device and an electrical attachment which is at least partially accommodated in the receiving area of ​​the base body.

[0003] Furthermore, the invention relates to a further surge protection assembly comprising such a surge protection device and a dummy module.

[0004] The invention is also directed to a method for assembling a surge protection assembly with a surge protection device of the type mentioned above and an electrotechnical attachment, wherein the electrotechnical attachment is at least partially received in the receiving area of ​​the base body.

[0005] Such surge protection devices and surge protection modules equipped with them are known from the prior art. The same applies to methods for installing a surge protection module of the aforementioned type. The low-voltage supply system to be protected is, for example, a wiring system in a residential or commercial building, which is to be protected in particular against surges resulting from a lightning strike.

[0006] For this purpose, it is known to provide surge arresters, for example in the form of spark gaps, within surge protection devices and interconnect them in such a way that overvoltages present on one or more of the busbars of the busbar system are reliably discharged to earth. Thus, the overvoltages do not reach the low-voltage supply system.

[0007] Corresponding interfaces for the electrical and mechanical coupling of the surge protection device to a busbar system comprising multiple busbars are known from DE 20 2018 104 832 U1, DE 10 2005 049 873 A1, and DE 10 2004 037 083 A1. Reference is made to the explanations therein.

[0008] A surge protection device of the type mentioned above can generally provide two alternative configurations of surge protection modules. Either an electrical attachment is provided in the receiving area, or the surge protection device is used without such an electrical attachment. The electrical attachment is, for example, an overcurrent protection device intended to protect an electronic device whose power consumption is not to be recorded by an electricity meter in the building's low-voltage supply system.

[0009] In the first case, with conventional surge protection devices, a separate terminal block must be installed to electrically connect the electrical component to the surge protection device. In the second case, i.e., if no electrical component is used, the terminal block must be removed from the surge protection device to ensure that it is touch-safe, preventing a person from touching live parts of the surge protection device. Another reason for removing the terminal block is to protect it from dirt and other undesirable environmental influences. Furthermore, there is a fundamental space issue that must also be considered.

[0010] DE 20 2018 006111 U1 discloses a surge protection device comprising a base body and an interface for electrically and mechanically coupling the surge protection device to a busbar system. Furthermore, a receiving area is provided in which an electrical attachment can be optionally accommodated.

[0011] EP 0 806 784 A2 describes a switching device for installation in a switch cabinet, wherein cables are provided to connect the switching device to the terminals of another switching device arranged directly adjacent. The cables are longitudinally movable relative to the switching device. The cables are mounted on a common support that can be adjusted between an extended and a retracted position.

[0012] The object of the present invention is to provide a surge protection device that can optionally be equipped with an electrical attachment, yet with minimal installation effort and space requirements. At the same time, the well-known, high safety standards, particularly with regard to touch safety, are maintained.

[0013] This object is achieved by a surge protection device of the type mentioned above, on the base body of which at least one contact tongue is provided, which is designed to electrically contact and mechanically secure the electrical attachment, which can be optionally arranged in the receiving area. The contact tongue is slidably mounted on the base body. The electrical attachment can thus be reliably coupled to the surge protection device in mechanical and electrical terms via the contact tongue. Since the contact tongue is slidably mounted on the base body, the installation of a separate contact element is no longer necessary, compared to the prior art. The contact tongue only needs to be pushed, if necessary, into a position intended for contacting and mechanical securing, which is referred to as the extended position.This results in significantly reduced assembly effort and space requirements compared to the state of the art. If no electrical attachment is to be used, the contact tongue can also be moved to a suitable position, known as the retracted position. This can also be achieved with comparatively little effort. In particular, the contact tongue is protected against unwanted contact in both positions, ensuring that the usual high safety standards are maintained in this regard.

[0014] The contact tongues are therefore made of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal, so that the electrical component can be electrically contacted.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the contact tongue protrudes at least partially into the receiving area in an extended position and is completely accommodated within the base body in a retracted position. The contact tongue is used in its extended position when the electrical attachment is to be electrically contacted and mechanically secured. By protruding into the receiving area, these functions are reliably fulfilled. The retracted position is preferably used when no electrical attachment is used in the receiving area. Since the contact tongue is completely accommodated within the base body, it is protected from unwanted contact. The surge protection device thus meets the usual high safety standards with regard to touch safety.Furthermore, in its retracted position, the contact blade is also protected from dirt and other undesirable environmental influences. It goes without saying that in its retracted position, the contact blade is outside the receiving area.

[0016] In particular, a guide is provided in the base body along which the contact tongue can be moved between the retracted and extended positions. This results in a defined movement of the contact tongue between the two positions. The two positions can correspond to the end positions of the contact tongue along the guide.

[0017] In the retracted position, the contact tongue can be separated from the receiving area by a cover movably mounted on the base body. The contact tongue is thus particularly reliably protected against unwanted contact and contamination in its retracted position. The cover can be spring-loaded toward a disconnected position, i.e., a position in which it separates the contact tongue from the receiving area. This reliably ensures that the cover assumes the disconnected position when the contact tongue is in the retracted position. In other words, the spring-loaded cover provides automatic disconnection or automatic contact protection, as the cover is moved into the disconnected position.

[0018] According to one variant, the cover is designed such that when the electrical attachment is inserted into the receiving area, it is moved from its disconnected position into a release position, such that it exposes an opening through which the contact tongue projects into the receiving area in the extended position. In the release position, the separation between the contact tongue and the receiving area is therefore eliminated. This occurs counter to the spring preload, if necessary, since the electronic attachment moves the cover into the release position against the spring force. The cover therefore does not cause any additional effort when mounting the electrical attachment. Preferably, a direction of movement of the cover connecting the disconnected position and the release position runs essentially perpendicular to a direction of movement of the contact tongue.

[0019] When the electrical attachment is removed and the contact tongue is moved to its retracted position, the spring, due to its spring preload, pushes the cover back into the disconnected position in which the cover covers the opening.

[0020] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover, which is movably mounted on the base body, is designed as a slider. More preferably, the slider is spring-loaded into the assigned release position.

[0021] In one variant, a locking device is also provided which is designed to lock the contact tongue in the extended position and / or in the retracted position. The locking device generates a mechanically perceptible resistance when the contact tongue reaches the retracted or extended position. At the same time, a certain force is required to move the contact tongue out of the extended or retracted position. This ensures that the contact tongue is not accidentally moved out of the retracted or extended position, and in particular that it does not release itself from the corresponding position. At the same time, when moved manually, the locking device provides feedback that the contact tongue has reached the desired position.This serves to ensure secure electrical contact and mechanical securing of the attachment to the surge protection device.

[0022] In this context, the locking device can comprise a locking contour arranged on the base body and a locking counter-contour formed on the contact tongue. In particular, the locking contour is resiliently mounted in the direction of the locking counter-contour. Such a locking device reliably provides the above-mentioned functions. At the same time, it is of simple and reliable construction and is easy to manufacture. In a particularly preferred variant, the locking contour is formed by a resilient locking arm manufactured integrally with the base body. Such a construction is particularly simple and therefore particularly cost-effective to manufacture.

[0023] A fixing unit can also be provided which is designed to fix the contact tongue in any desired displacement position. The fixing unit acts in addition to any locking device that may be present. In contrast to the locking device, the contact tongue can no longer be moved from a position fixed by the fixing unit without the fixing unit being transferred to a release state. Fixing preferably takes place in the retracted position or in the extended position. This allows the attachment to be reliably coupled electrically and mechanically to the surge protection device. The fixing unit therefore represents a mechanical safeguard for the contact tongue, ensuring that the contact tongue remains in its corresponding position and is not accidentally moved.

[0024] The fixing unit preferably comprises a fastening means, in particular a fastening screw, by means of which the contact tongue can be selectively secured to a contact base fixed within the base body and by means of which a displacement of the contact tongue relative to the fixed contact base can be selectively released. In particular, the fastening means can be actuated by means of a tool. In other words, the tool is used to loosen or tighten the fastening means so that the fixing unit releases or secures the contact tongue. In the event that the fastening means is a fastening screw, this can be actuated with a screwdriver. The fastening means is advantageously countersunk in the base body so that it can only be reached using the associated tool. This in turn provides reliable protection against accidental contact.

[0025] In a further development, the fastening means is also provided with an engagement surface for moving the associated contact tongue. The contact tongue can therefore be moved using this engagement surface immediately after the contact tongue has been released via the fastening means, whereby the contact tongue can be moved. This is particularly inexpensive, since the tool for releasing the fastening means can be used directly to move the contact tongue. In particular, the engagement surface for moving the contact tongue is part of an engagement contour for the tool for operating the fastening means. In the event that the fastening means is a fastening screw, an engagement contour for the tool can be slotted or cross-shaped. This then simultaneously serves to move the contact tongue using the screwdriver used.

[0026] According to an alternative, an engagement surface is provided on the contact tongue, which is designed to move the contact tongue on the base body. Such an engagement surface is present, in particular, independently of any engagement surface that may be present on the fastening element. This allows the contact tongue to be moved easily and precisely. Preferably, this engagement surface is also recessed within the base body in such a way that it can only be reached using a tool, such as a screwdriver. This protects the engagement surface from unwanted contact.

[0027] In one variant, the engagement surface protrudes from the contact tongue essentially perpendicular to the direction of displacement of the contact tongue. This allows for easy access to the engagement surface. Furthermore, such an engagement surface is advantageously positioned with regard to the force flow required to move the contact tongue. Further preferably, the contact tongue and the engagement surface are formed integrally with one another, i.e., a monolithic component is formed that encompasses the contact tongue and the engagement surface. The engagement surface can be a surface of a section of the contact tongue that has been formed at the end. This design is particularly simple and therefore cost-effective.

[0028] The contact tongue can be provided with a spring-loaded, movable base body. The contact tongue can be spring-loaded either into its extended or retracted position. With such a contact tongue, it is sufficient to release its movement to move it into the extended or retracted position. Active movement is then not necessary due to the spring load. Operating the contact tongue is therefore comparatively simple.

[0029] In this respect, the electronic attachment can be inserted into the receiving area, whereby it moves the cover from the separated position into the release position against the spring preload. In the separated position, the contact tongue is spring-loaded against the cover so that its tip rests against the cover. If the electronic attachment has adjusted the cover far enough upon insertion into the receiving area that the opening is released, the contact tongue could be automatically moved into the extended position due to the spring load. Depending on the design of the electronic attachment, the tip of the contact tongue may initially rest against an outer side of the electronic attachment until the latter is inserted far enough into the receiving area that a lateral insertion opening is aligned with the opening through which the contact tongue extends.The contact tongue is then automatically moved into the insertion opening of the electronic attachment due to the spring preload, whereby the contact tongue electrically contacts the electronic attachment and simultaneously secures it mechanically.

[0030] If no cover is provided, the contact tongue can also be moved into the extended position automatically, i.e., due to spring preload, by (manually) actuating the locking unit after inserting the electronic component, so that the corresponding contact tongue is released. In other words, the spring can then force the contact tongue into the extended position, since the contact tongue is no longer held in place by the locking unit. The contact tongue is then moved into the insertion opening of the electronic component via the spring, thereby electrically contacting the electronic component and mechanically securing it.

[0031] According to one variant, an electrical supply connection is arranged on the base body. In particular, the electrical supply connection is electrically connected in series with the contact tongue. Such a supply connection is used, in particular, to connect a smart meter or router, or another device whose power consumption is not to be recorded by the electricity meter of the building's low-voltage supply system. Typically, a device belonging to a grid operator, electricity supplier, or utility service provider is connected via the supply connection. Such devices can thus be supplied with the necessary electrical energy in a space-saving and reliable manner while simultaneously being protected.

[0032] Two contact tongues mounted on the base body can also be provided. In particular, the contact tongues are arranged at opposite ends of the receiving area. The contact tongues can be designed, for example, as a positive pole and a negative pole, or as a neutral conductor and a phase conductor. They are preferably geometrically identical. This allows a wide range of electrical attachments to be supplied with electrical power and mechanically secured to the surge protection device.

[0033] The object is further achieved by a surge protection assembly comprising a surge protection device according to the invention and an electrical attachment that is at least partially received in the receiving area of ​​the base body and is electrically coupled and mechanically secured to the surge protection device via the at least one contact tongue. The at least one contact tongue is in its extended position. In this way, the electrical attachment is reliably coupled to the overcurrent protection device both electrically and mechanically. The electrical attachment can also be easily mounted to the surge protection device.

[0034] The electrical component can be a miniature circuit breaker or an overcurrent protection device. A miniature circuit breaker is also referred to as a circuit breaker. This allows smart meters, routers, or other devices whose power consumption should not be recorded by the electricity meter of the building's low-voltage supply system to be protected from excessive currents and / or voltages. Typically, this is a device from a grid operator, electricity supplier, or utility service provider.

[0035] In addition, a cover of the electrical attachment and the surge protection device can be connected to each other via a seal. The cover can be a transparent cover, also called a clear cover, which prevents direct access to the electrical attachment and thus prevents tampering. This essentially prevents unauthorized persons from operating the electrical attachment. The electrical attachment can therefore only be separated from the surge protection device by damaging the seal, as this would first require removing the cover, which is connected to the surge protection device via the seal. This makes it easy to detect tampering with the surge protection module and / or the electrical attachment.

[0036] The object is further achieved by a surge protection assembly comprising a surge protection device according to the invention and a dummy module which is at least partially received in the receiving region of the base body, wherein the at least one contact tongue is in its retracted position. The dummy module preferably has no electrical components, so that it is not electrically connected to the surge protection device. The mechanical coupling of the dummy module to the surge protection device is not via the contact tongue, but via separate means. By receiving the dummy module in the receiving region, no electrical attachment can be accommodated there. Thus, the dummy module reliably prevents manipulation and incorrect operation of the surge protection device.In addition, the dummy module provides additional contact protection for the components of the surge protection device.

[0037] In a preferred variant, the dummy module is sealed to the surge protection device, so that it can only be removed from the surge protection device by breaking the seal. This makes it easy to detect any tampering with the surge protection module.

[0038] In addition, the effects and advantages explained with regard to the surge protection device also apply to the two surge protection assemblies and vice versa.

[0039] In principle, a tamper protection device can be provided, which is coupled at least to the base body, to prevent tampering with the surge protection device, the electrical attachment, and / or the supply connection. For example, this prevents unauthorized tapping of the current present at the supply connection.

[0040] The problem is additionally solved by a method of the type mentioned above for assembling a surge protection module, which comprises the following steps: a) providing a surge protection device according to the invention, wherein the contact tongue is in its retracted position or is transferred into its retracted position, b) subsequently arranging the electrical attachment in the receiving area of ​​the main body of the surge protection device, and c) subsequently transferring the contact tongue into its extended position, so that the electrical attachment is electrically coupled to the surge protection device and mechanically secured.

[0041] The electrical component can thus be attached to the surge protection device with comparatively little assembly effort. This ensures reliable mechanical and electrical coupling.

[0042] Furthermore, the effects and advantages explained in connection with the surge protection device and the surge protection modules also apply to the process and vice versa.

[0043] The invention is explained below using various embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. They show: Figure 1 an overvoltage protection assembly according to the invention with an overvoltage protection device according to the invention and an electrical attachment, wherein the overvoltage protection assembly can be mounted by means of a method according to the invention, Figure 2 the surge protection device of the surge protection module Figure 1 in a separate presentation, Figure 3 one of the Figure 2 corresponding view of the surge protection device, wherein a base body of the surge protection device is shown partially in section, Figure 4a detail IV of the surge protection device from Figure 3 , Figure 5 another surge protection assembly according to the invention with a surge protection device according to the invention and a dummy module, Figure 6 the surge protection device of the surge protection module Figure 5 in a separate presentation, Figure 7 one of the Figure 6 corresponding view of the surge protection device, wherein a base body of the surge protection device is shown partially in section, Figure 8 a detail VIII of the surge protection device from Figure 7 , Figure 9 a perspective view of a portion of the surge protection device of Figure 7 along a direction IX, with a contact base shown transparent and a base body partially cut, Figure 10 a top view of the detail Figure 9 along a direction X in Figure 7, where a contact base is shown transparently and a base body is partially cut, Figure 11 a view of the detail Figure 10 along direction XI, Figure 12 and Figure 13 schematically an actuation of a contact tongue of the surge protection device according to the invention from the Figures 1 to 11 via an engagement surface provided on the contact tongue, Figure 14 and 15 schematically an actuation of a contact tongue of the surge protection device according to the invention from the Figures 1 to 11 via an engagement surface provided on a fastening device, Figures 16 and 17 each show a section of an inventive overvoltage protection device according to an alternative embodiment in different states, and Figure 18 the surge protection device from the Figures 16 and 17during the assembly of an electrical attachment to form a surge protection assembly according to the invention.

[0044] Figure 1 shows a surge protection assembly 10 having a surge protection device 12 which serves to protect a low-voltage supply system of a building against overvoltages.

[0045] The surge protection device 12 comprises a base body 14, which in the illustrated embodiment is essentially formed from two body parts 14a, 14b.

[0046] On the base body 14, more precisely on a Figure 1 An interface 16 for electrically and mechanically coupling the surge protection device 12 to a busbar system comprising several busbars is arranged on the side of the body half 14a shown below. Such interfaces 16 are known per se, so they will not be explained in detail below.

[0047] In addition, coupling elements 17 are provided, via which the surge protection device 12 can be mechanically coupled to the busbar system.

[0048] The base body 14 also has a receiving area 18 in which Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment of the surge protection module 10, an electrical attachment 20 in the form of a circuit breaker 22 is incorporated. Such a circuit breaker 22 can also be referred to as a circuit breaker.

[0049] The receiving area 18 is formed by a (lateral) recess on the base body 14 so that the electrical attachment 20 can be inserted.

[0050] Furthermore, an electrical supply connection 24 is arranged on the base body 14, which is in the Figure 1 is only shown schematically.

[0051] Such a supply connection 24 can be used, for example, to supply electrical power to a smart meter (not shown in detail) or other electrical device.

[0052] In the surge protection assembly 10, the electrical supply connection 24 is electrically connected in series with the circuit breaker 22. The circuit breaker 22 thus serves to protect the electrical supply connection 24 and the devices connected to it from excessive currents and / or voltages.

[0053] Furthermore, the circuit breaker 22 is electrically coupled to the overvoltage protection device 12 via two contact tongues 26, 28 which are displaceably mounted on the base body 14 and is mechanically secured to the overvoltage protection device 12 (cf. Figures 2 to 4 ).

[0054] The contact tongues 26, 28 are geometrically identical.

[0055] In addition, the contact tongues 26, 28 are positioned at opposite ends of the receiving area 18, so that the contact tongues 26, 28, in particular their tips, are opposite each other.

[0056] If the circuit breaker 22 is inserted into the receiving area 18, the contact tongues 26, 28 are in an extended position.

[0057] In this position, the contact tongues 26, 28 protrude into the receiving area 18 and thus contact the connection contacts provided on the circuit breaker 22, so that they electrically contact the circuit breaker 22 and at the same time mechanically secure it.

[0058] The connection contacts are arranged countersunk in channels or insertion openings extending from side surfaces 22a, 22b of the circuit breaker 22 relative to an outer contour of the circuit breaker 22.

[0059] The contact tongues 26, 28 thus engage in these channels in their extended position and thus secure the circuit breaker 22 in a form-fitting manner to the surge protection device 12. In other words, due to the securing by the contact tongues 26, 28, the circuit breaker 22 can neither be removed from the receiving area 18 nor tilted or moved within the receiving area 18.

[0060] In order to ensure the displaceability of the contact tongues 26, 28 on the base body 14, a contact base 30, 32 is provided for each of the contact tongues 26, 28, which is fixed within the base body 14 and which is Figures 3 and 4 are shown in more detail.

[0061] Each contact base 30, 32 is equipped with a longitudinal guide 30a, 32a in the form of an elongated hole, along which the contact tongues 26, 28 can be moved. The direction of movement is designated V.

[0062] Furthermore, the surge protection device 12 comprises a fixing unit 34, 36 for each of the contact tongues 26, 28, each of which is designed to secure the associated contact tongue 26, 28 in any desired displacement position on the associated contact base 30, 32. Furthermore, the fixing units 34, 36 can be used to enable the displacement of the respective associated contact tongue 26, 28.

[0063] For this purpose, the fixing unit 34 comprises a first fastening means 38 in the form of a fastening screw, which passes through the guide 30a and is screwed into the contact tongue 26 in such a way that the contact tongue 26 can be selectively clamped to the contact base 30 by turning the fastening screw.

[0064] The fixing unit 36 ​​comprises a second fastening means 40 in the form of a fastening screw, which passes through the guide 32a and is in turn screwed into the contact tongue 28 such that the contact tongue 28 can be selectively clamped to the contact base 32 by turning the fastening screw.

[0065] Another overvoltage protection module 42 is in the Figures 5 to 11 shown.

[0066] This is essentially constructed from the overvoltage protection device 12, which has already been explained in connection with the overvoltage protection assembly 10, and a dummy module 44.

[0067] The dummy module 44 is housed in the receiving area 18 and thus prevents an electrical component 20 from being accidentally inserted into it. Furthermore, the dummy module 44 provides protection against contamination.

[0068] In particular, the dummy module 44 is designed without any electrical components.

[0069] In order for the dummy module 44 to be inserted into the receiving area 18, the contact tongues 26, 28 are each in a retracted position in which they are each completely received in the base body 14 (see in particular Figures 7 and 8 ).

[0070] In this context, the contact tongues 26, 28 can each be preloaded into the retracted position by a spring (not shown in detail). In this case, to move the contact tongues 26, 28 into their respective retracted positions, it would be sufficient to release the fastening means 38, 40 and thus release the displaceability of the contact tongues 26, 28. Otherwise, the contact tongues 26, 28 must be manually moved into the respective retracted positions, as will be explained later.

[0071] The contact tongues 26, 28 are further each coupled to a locking device 46, by means of which they can be locked in the extended position and in the retracted position, as can be seen from the Figures 9 and 10 emerges.

[0072] This prevents the contact tongues 26, 28 from being moved manually in an unintentional manner.

[0073] Furthermore, the locking device 46 provides an increased resistance to displacement when the contact tongues 26, 28 are manually moved when reaching the retracted position and the extended position, so that reaching the respective position is noticeable.

[0074] The locking device 46 is explained by way of example in interaction with the contact tongue 26 (cf. Figures 9 to 11 ).

[0075] In this context, a locking contour 48 is arranged on the base body 14, which projects in the direction of the contact tongue 26.

[0076] The locking contour 48 is also positioned at the end of a spring-loaded locking arm 50.

[0077] It interacts with a locking counter contour 52 which is formed on the contact tongue 26.

[0078] In this context, the locking counter contour 52 comprises a first projection 52a, a second projection 52b and an intermediate, substantially flat section 52c.

[0079] If the retracted position of the contact tongue 26 is assumed (see in particular Figure 10 ), it is locked in the retracted position, since the second projection 52b cannot pass the locking contour 48 without contact when the contact tongue 26 is displaced in the direction of the receiving area 18.

[0080] However, if the contact tongue 26 is moved with sufficient force, the second projection 52b does indeed come into contact with the locking contour 48, but due to the resilient properties of the locking arm 50 in the illustration according to Figure 10 move slightly upwards and thus slide past the locking contour 48.

[0081] When the second projection 52 has passed the locking contour 48, the contact tongue 26 can be moved without interaction with the locking contour 48 until it comes into contact with the first projection 52a.

[0082] If the contact tongue 26 is moved further with sufficient force, the locking contour 48 springs again in the illustration according to Figure 10 upwards so that the first projection 52a can slide past the locking contour 48.

[0083] The contact tongue 26 then reaches its extended position and is locked there, since in order to push the contact tongue 26 back the spring resistance of the locking arm 50 would have to be overcome again.

[0084] The contact tongues 26, 28 can be moved according to two basic options, which are described below with reference to the Figures 12 to 15 be explained.

[0085] The first option is to move the contact tongues 26, 28 using a tool 54, which in this case is a screwdriver. The tip of the tool 54 is inserted into a space between a portion of the base body 14 and an engagement surface 56 of the contact tongue 26, 28.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surface 56 is provided on an extension formed integrally with the contact tongue 26, 28 and is substantially perpendicular to a displacement direction V of the contact tongues 26, 28.

[0087] The tool 54 can now be pivoted while maintaining contact with the contact surface 56 and the section of the base body 14 in such a way that the contact tongue 26, 28 is displaced in the direction of the receiving area 18 (see arrows in Figure 13 ).

[0088] The engagement surface 56 is located at the end of a recess 60 in the base body 14. In other words, the engagement surface 56 is recessed within the base body 14. As a result, the engagement surface 56 can only be reached with the help of the tool 54 and, in particular, cannot be reached with human fingers. The engagement surface 56 is thus protected against contact.

[0089] In order to push the contact tongue 26, 28 in an opposite direction, the tool 54 can be used to attack the contact surface 61.

[0090] Alternatively, the contact tongue 26, 28 can be moved over an engagement surface 62 provided on the respective fastening means 38, 40.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surface 62 is simultaneously a component of an engagement contour for the tool 54 in order to actuate the fastening means 38, 40.

[0092] In this context, the tool 54 is placed against the contact surface 62 and, together with the fastening means 38, 40, which is screwed into the associated contact tongue 26, 28, is moved in the direction of the receiving area 18 or away from the receiving area 18 (see arrow in Figure 14 ).

[0093] Two surge protection assemblies 10, 42 were explained above, each comprising an identically designed surge protection device 12. It is therefore understood that features, properties, and advantages of the surge protection device explained in connection with the surge protection assembly 10 also apply to the surge protection device 12 in the surge protection assembly 42, and vice versa.

[0094] An alternative embodiment of the overvoltage protection device 12 is shown in the Figures 16 to 18 shown.

[0095] A cover 64, which in this case is designed as a slide, is slidably mounted on the base body 14 such that it can separate an associated contact tongue 26, 28 in its retracted position from the receiving area 18. The contact tongue 26, 28 is therefore neither accessible by hand nor by means of a tool from the receiving area 18.

[0096] For this purpose, in the embodiment shown, the cover 64 is pre-tensioned into its separating position by means of a spring 66, which in Figure 16 is shown.

[0097] The cover 64 and the spring 66 are configured in such a way that the cover 64 can be transferred from the disconnected position into its release position by means of an electrical attachment 20 inserted into the receiving area 18, which in this case is again designed as a circuit breaker 22, which in Figure 17 is shown.

[0098] In the release position, the cover 64 releases a corresponding opening 68 in the base body 14 through which the corresponding contact tongue 26, 28 extends in its extended position in order to electrically contact and mechanically secure the electrotechnical attachment 20.

[0099] For the transition from the disconnected position to the release position, the cover 64 is moved by means of the electrical attachment 20 against the preload force of the spring 66, as can be seen from Figure 18 This opens the opening 68 accordingly.

[0100] Depending on the design of the electronic attachment 22, the contact tongue 26, 28 can then directly contact the electronic attachment 22 or initially rest against an outer side of the electronic attachment 22 until the latter is inserted into the receiving area 18 to such an extent that a lateral insertion opening of the electronic attachment 22, also referred to as a channel, is aligned with the opening 68 through which the contact tongue 26, 28 extends.

[0101] Then, the contact tongue 26, 28 is moved into the insertion opening of the electronic attachment 22 either manually or automatically due to a spring preload, whereby the contact tongue 26, 28 electrically contacts the electronic attachment 22, in particular the corresponding connection contacts, and at the same time mechanically secures the electronic attachment 22.

[0102] Regardless of whether the surge protection device 12 is in accordance with the Figures 1 to 15 or 16 to 18 is designed, the overvoltage protection assembly 10, which comprises the overvoltage protection device 12 and the electrical attachment 20, can be manufactured as follows.

[0103] First, the overvoltage protection device 12 is provided, wherein the contact tongues 26, 28 are already in their retracted position or are moved into the retracted positions.

[0104] The transfer of the contact tongues 26, 28 into the respective retracted position can be carried out analogously to the illustrations in the Figures 12 to 15 take place, whereby either the engagement surface 62 on the respectively assigned fastening means 38, 40 or the engagement surface 61. Automatic transfer can also take place, provided that a corresponding spring is provided which urges the contact tongues 26, 28 into the respective retracted position.

[0105] The electrical attachment 20 is then arranged in the receiving area 18 of the base body 14. This is easily possible because the contact tongues 26, 28 are completely accommodated within the base body 14, so that the receiving area 18 is completely exposed.

[0106] Subsequently, the contact tongues 26, 28 are moved into their extended positions. This is done by loosening the respective fastening means 38, 40 and moving the contact tongues 26, 28 towards the receiving area 18, as shown in the Figures 12 to 15 The contact tongues 26, 28 can be moved manually or automatically, provided that appropriate springs are provided that urge the contact tongues 26, 28 into their extended positions.

[0107] In the extended position, the contact tongues 26, 28 make electrical contact with the electrical attachment 20.

[0108] On the other hand, they also secure the attachment part 20 mechanically via a positive connection, since, as already explained, they engage in channels on the side surfaces 22a, 22b of the attachment part 20.

[0109] The contact tongues 26, 28 are fixed in the extended position by means of the fastening means 38,40.

[0110] As already explained above, the contacting of the electrotechnical attachment 20 can take place automatically, provided that the electrotechnical attachment 20 moves the spring-loaded cover 66 into the release position, whereby the opening 68 is released, so that the spring-loaded contact tongues 26, 28 can also assume their extended positions as soon as the insertion openings of the electrotechnical attachment 20 are aligned with the openings 68.

[0111] Basically, an overvoltage protection device 12 is provided, which can optionally be provided with an electrical attachment in order to protect an electrical component provided at a supply connection in a space-saving and touch-safe manner.

Claims

1. An overvoltage protection device (12) for protecting a low-voltage supply system of a building against overvoltages, comprising a base body (14), on which an interface (16) is provided for electrical and mechanical coupling of the overvoltage protection device (12) to a busbar system comprising a plurality of busbars, and a receiving area (18) which is arranged on the base body (14) and in which an electrotechnical add-on part (20) can optionally be received, characterized in that at least one contact tongue (26, 28) is provided on the base body (14), which is configured to electrically contact and mechanically secure the electrotechnical add-on part (20) which can optionally be arranged in the receiving area (18), the contact tongue (26, 28) being displaceably mounted on the base body (14).

2. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that the contact tongue (26, 28) projects at least in sections into the receiving area (18) in an extended position and is fully received within the base body (14) in a retracted position.

3. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to claim 2, characterized in that when in the retracted position, the contact tongue (26, 28) is separated from the receiving area (18) by a cover (64) movably mounted on the base body (14).

4. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by a latching device (46) which is configured to lock the contact tongue (26, 28) in the extended position and / or in the retracted position.

5. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to claim 4, characterized in that the latching device (46) comprises a latching contour (48) arranged on the base body (14) and a latching counter-contour (52) formed on the contact tongue (26, 28), in particular wherein the latching contour (48) is resiliently mounted in the direction of the latching counter-contour (52).

6. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by a fixing unit (34, 36) which is configured to fix the contact tongue (26, 28) in any desired displacement position.

7. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to claim 6, characterized in that the fixing unit (34, 36) comprises a fastening means (38, 40), in particular a fastening screw, by means of which the contact tongue (26, 28) can be selectively fixed to a contact base (30, 32) fixed within the base body (14) and by means of which a displacement of the contact tongue (26, 28) relative to the fixed contact base (30, 32) can be selectively enabled.

8. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that an engagement surface (56, 61) is provided on the contact tongue (26, 28), which is designed to displace the contact tongue (26, 28) on the base body (14).

9. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact tongue (26, 28) is provided on the base body (14) so as to be displaceable in a spring-loaded manner.

10. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that an electrical supply connection (24) is arranged on the base body (14), in particular wherein the electrical supply connection (24) is electrically connected in series with the contact tongue (26, 28).

11. The overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that two contact tongues (26, 28) are provided which are displaceably mounted on the base body (14), in particular wherein the contact tongues (26, 28) are arranged at opposite ends of the receiving area (18).

12. An overvoltage protection assembly (10) comprising an overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of the preceding claims and an electrotechnical add-on part (20), which is at least partly received in the receiving area (18) of the base body (14) and is electrically coupled to the overvoltage protection device (12) by means of the at least one contact tongue (26, 28) and is mechanically secured, the at least one contact tongue (26, 28) being in its extended position.

13. The overvoltage protection assembly (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that the electrotechnical add-on part (20) is a circuit breaker (22) or an overcurrent protection device.

14. An overvoltage protection assembly (42) comprising an overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of claims 1 to 11 and a dummy module (44) which is at least partly received in the receiving area (18) of the base body (14), the at least one contact tongue (26, 28) being in its retracted position.

15. A method of assembling an overvoltage protection assembly (10) according to claim 12 or 13, comprising the following steps: (a) providing an overvoltage protection device (12) according to any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the contact tongue (26, 28) is in its retracted position or is transferred to its retracted position; (b) subsequently arranging the electrotechnical add-on part (20) in the receiving area (18) of the base body (14) of the overvoltage protection device (12); and (c) subsequently transferring the contact tongue (26, 28) to its extended position, so that the electrotechnical add-on part (20) is electrically coupled to the overvoltage protection device (12) and mechanically secured.