Connection terminal for direct conductor connection

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connection terminal (1) for connecting electrical conductors (L1, L2) in a direct connector connection. The connection terminal (1) has a carrier (2) which is formed by two frames (3, 4) which can be moved relative to one another along a movement axis (X). The carrier (2) has two conductor insertion channels (5, 6) each for inserting one electrical conductor (L1, L2) in a conductor insertion direction (R1, R2). The conductor insertion channels (5, 6) extend, as seen in the direction of the movement axis (X), in an overlapping manner in an overlap region (B) such that the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) form, at least in the overlap region (B), a common conductor contact space (20) for direct conductor connection of the electrical conductors (L1, L2) inserted in the two conductor insertion channels (5, 6). The connection terminal (1) furthermore has: an actuation part (7) for moving the two frames (3, 4) relative to one another along the movement axis (X) between (i) a clamping position, in which, for each conductor insertion channel (5, 6), a distal clamping edge (80, 90) of a clamping spring (8, 9) projects, in the conductor insertion direction (R1, R2) of the allocated conductor insertion channel (5, 6), in an inclined manner into the allocated conductor insertion channel (5, 6) to form a conductor clamping point (K1, K2) for the allocated electrical conductor (L1, L2), and (ii) a release position, in which the clamping springs (8, 9) release the respective allocated conductor insertion channel (5, 6) for insertion of the allocated electrical conductor (L1, L2) and thus open the respective conductor clamping point (K1, K2). The connection terminal (1) furthermore has a spring element (10) which forces the two frames (3, 4) into the clamping position.

Description

[0001] Connection terminal for direct conductor connection

[0002] The present invention relates to a connecting terminal for connecting electrical conductors in direct conductor connection.

[0003] Connecting terminals are generally known from the prior art. These have a connection area for each electrical conductor to be connected, which is usually formed by a spring-loaded terminal connection. The spring-loaded terminal connection usually has a contact frame and a clamping spring leg for each conductor, which presses against the contact frame to form a conductor clamping point for the electrical conductor. The contact frames are electrically connected to one another to electrically connect the connected electrical conductors. To ensure a secure and sufficient electrical connection, the contact frames are usually made of highly electrically conductive materials, such as copper.

[0004] It is now an object of the present invention to provide a connecting terminal of the type mentioned at the outset, by means of which a secure electrical connection between two electrical conductors is made possible in a favorable manner.

[0005] This object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims develop the central idea of ​​the present invention in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0006] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a connecting terminal for connecting electrical conductors in a direct conductor connection. Within the context of the present invention, "direct conductor connection" means that the electrical conductors connected via the connecting terminal are brought into direct physical contact and thus directly electrically connected. The connecting terminal has a support formed by two frames that are movable relative to one another along a movement axis.

[0007] The carrier has (at least) two conductor insertion channels, each for inserting an electrical conductor in a conductor insertion direction. The carrier therefore has (at least) a first conductor insertion channel for inserting a first electrical conductor in a first conductor insertion direction, and a second conductor insertion channel for inserting a second electrical conductor in a second conductor insertion direction. The conductor insertion channels overlap in an overlap region, as viewed in the direction of the movement axis, so that the conductor insertion channels form, at least in the overlap region, a common conductor contact space for directly connecting the electrical conductors inserted into the two conductor insertion channels. Thus, the conductor insertion channels run directly adjacent to one another and / or at least partially overlapping in the overlap region, in order to accordingly form the common conductor contact space.

[0008] The connecting clamp also has an actuating part. This serves to move the two frames relative to each other—thus the first frame relative to the second frame—along the movement axis between a clamping position and a release position.

[0009] In the clamping position, a clamping spring with a distal clamping edge inclined in the direction of the conductor insertion direction of the associated conductor insertion channel protrudes into the associated conductor insertion channel to form a conductor clamping point for the electrical conductor associated with this conductor insertion channel. Thus, in the clamping position, a first clamping spring with a distal first clamping edge inclined in the direction of the first conductor insertion direction protrudes into the first conductor insertion channel to form a first conductor clamping point for the first electrical conductor. Furthermore, in the clamping position, a second clamping spring with a distal second clamping edge inclined in the direction of the second conductor insertion direction protrudes into the second conductor insertion channel to form a second conductor clamping point for the second electrical conductor.

[0010] In the release position, the clamping springs each release the associated conductor insertion channel for insertion (or removal) of the associated electrical conductor, thus opening the respective conductor clamping point. Thus, in the release position, the first clamping spring releases the first conductor insertion channel for insertion (or removal) of the first electrical conductor, thus opening the first conductor clamping point. In the release position, the second clamping spring also releases the second conductor insertion channel for insertion (or removal) of the second electrical conductor, thus opening the second conductor clamping point.

[0011] The connecting clamp further comprises a spring element which urges the two frames into the clamping position; this preferably occurs with increasing spring force when moving towards the release position.

[0012] With the connecting terminal according to the invention, a direct conductor connection can be created between the two connected electrical conductors in a simple manner. The electrical conductors can thus be physically connected to one another, thereby achieving a highly effective electrical connection - namely a direct conductor connection. Any losses due to electrical conduction via an additional contact element of the connecting terminal can thus be reliably avoided. In addition, a simple electrical connection option is created because the (single) actuating part enables the (at least) two-part carrier - and therefore the two frames relative to one another - to be easily transferred from the clamping position to the release position (and back). Since the relative movement of the two frames of the carrier simultaneously opens or releases all conductor clamping points.closes, both the design of the connecting terminal and its operation are particularly simple and effective. Since the two clamping edges are inclined in the direction of the respective conductor insertion direction of the assigned conductor insertion channel, they also serve as an effective pull-off protection for an electrical conductor inserted into the assigned conductor insertion channel. The additional spring element serves, on the one hand, to easily transfer the conductor into the clamping position. On the other hand, the spring element serves to easily and permanently maintain the clamping position; this is regardless of any conductor cross-sections of the electrical conductors connected or to be connected to the connecting terminal.

[0013] The actuating part can preferably be movably mounted on one of the two frames. The actuating part can thus be provided directly on a stable component, namely the support or its frame. Due to the direct arrangement on one of the two frames, the connecting clamp can also be designed to be particularly compact.

[0014] The actuating part can preferably have a bearing section with which it is mounted in a counter-bearing section of the connecting clamp—preferably of one of the two frames—for rotation about a rotation axis. The rotatable mounting by means of the bearing sections enables simple and defined rotatable mounting. This allows a defined lever arm of the actuating part to be provided. The actuating part can thus be provided as an actuating lever or a pivoting or rotating lever. This allows the actuating part to be designed with a particularly simple structure while simultaneously being effective.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, the actuating element can also be mounted in a translational manner. For example, the actuating element can also be designed as a push button.

[0016] The actuating part can preferably be movably mounted between a rest position, in which the frames are in the clamping position, and an actuating position, in which the frames are in the release position. The defined movable mounting of the actuating part between the rest position and the actuating position enables particularly simple and intuitive handling of the actuating part and thus a simple and safe achievement of the release position or return to the clamping position.

[0017] The actuating part can preferably have a first support section, with which the actuating part is supported on a second support section of one of the two frames, preferably the other of the two frames, when moving from the rest position to the actuating position in order to move the two frames from the clamping position to the release position. The support sections provide a simple structural measure for easily and reliably generating the relative movement of the frames by means of the actuating part through direct contact with the frame.

[0018] The first support section can preferably protrude axially with respect to the axis of rotation in order to achieve the relative movement of the two frames in a cam-like manner.

[0019] The actuating part preferably has a manipulation section by means of which an operator can manually operate the actuating part and preferably move it between the rest position and the actuating position. Thus, the actuating part can be manipulated in a simple and intuitive manner, or moved accordingly between the rest position and the actuating position.

[0020] The manipulation section can preferably protrude axially with respect to the rotation axis, so that the manipulation section is, on the one hand, easily accessible and, on the other hand, enables a defined lever arm for the simplest possible actuation.

[0021] At least one (or both) of the clamping springs can preferably be mounted or fastened to one of the two frames (e.g. riveted to it). Thus, during the relative movement of the frames, the clamping spring moves along with the frame having or supporting this clamping spring. The at least one clamping spring can then preferably have a trigger section which, upon movement from the clamping position to the release position, comes into or is in operative connection with a contact section of the other of the two frames in order to open the associated or respective conductor clamping point. These simple structural measures enable the conductor clamping point to be opened in a simple and effective manner. The relative movement of the frames is converted into an opening movement of the corresponding clamping spring.The second support section and the contact section of the other of the two frames can preferably be formed as an integral web of the other of the two frames. This integral web offers the possibility of combining two functional sections into one structural section of one of the frames, thus simplifying the construction of the connecting clamp or support. The integral web thus formed also provides good stiffening of the associated frame, ensuring its structural stability and allowing corresponding forces to be effectively transmitted through it.

[0022] At least one (or both) of the clamping springs can preferably be mounted or fastened (e.g. riveted to) one of the two frames. This can be the clamping spring already described and mounted on one of the two frames or the other of the two clamping springs. The at least one clamping spring can then preferably have a trigger section which, upon movement from the clamping position to the release position, comes into or is in operative connection with a contact section of the actuating part in order to open the associated or respective conductor clamping point. The actuating part can thus act directly on one of the two or both clamping springs in order to open the associated conductor clamping point(s). If necessary, this can be done in support of the manipulation by the contact section of the other of the two frames.

[0023] The actuating part can preferably be mounted on one of the two frames, while the two clamping springs are mounted or attached (e.g., riveted) to the other frame. The clamping springs are thus assigned to one of the two frames and move with it during the relative movement of the two frames. The design of the connecting clamp is thus particularly simple, with movement sequences that are both simple and effective.

[0024] Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the actuating part and one of the clamping springs to be mounted on one of the two frames, while the other clamping spring is mounted on the other of the two frames. This allows the respective frames to be designed somewhat more compactly, resulting in a compact connection terminal overall.

[0025] The spring element can preferably have a distal third clamping edge, which, in the clamping position, projects into the conductor contact space to urge the two inserted electrical conductors together in the conductor contact space (in particular for (improved or increased) direct conductor connection), and, in the release position, releases the conductor contact space for insertion (or removal) of the two electrical conductors—that is, the first and second electrical conductors. Thus, the third clamping edge makes it possible to hold the inserted electrical conductors, which extend adjacent to one another in the overlap region, securely in the direct conductor connection, preferably at least along the movement axis.The third clamping edge can also preferably be inclined in the direction of the conductor insertion direction of the directly adjacent conductor insertion channel to form a third conductor clamping point for the correspondingly assigned (i.e., closer) electrical conductor. Thus, the spring element can also serve as a supportive pull-out protection for this electrical conductor, further increasing the safety of the connecting terminal.

[0026] The clamping springs and preferably also the spring element can each have the following: a holding leg which is mounted or fastened to one of the two frames, a spring arch extending from the holding leg, and a clamping leg extending away from the spring arch on a side opposite the holding leg, which clamping leg has the clamping edge at a distal end, preferably at an end distal to the spring arch. Thus, the clamping springs and preferably also the spring element can have a particularly simple but effective design. The holding leg offers secure mounting of the clamping spring, the spring arch offers a simple way of providing a spring force for simple but effective deflection of the clamping leg, which in turn provides the clamping edge at a distal end in an effective, exposed manner.

[0027] The spring element can preferably be formed integrally with at least one of the clamping springs, and furthermore, preferably in one piece. This allows for particularly simple manufacture and assembly of the respective components.

[0028] The spring element can preferably be designed as a spiral spring. This allows the use of a simple and preferably readily available spring element, simplifying its provision.

[0029] The coil spring can preferably extend and act along a longitudinal spring axis that runs parallel to the movement axis. This allows the coil spring to be provided in a particularly effective and compact manner.

[0030] The coil spring can preferably be mounted or fastened at one of its spring ends to a first fastening section of one of the two frames, and with its other spring end opposite one spring end to a second fastening section of the other of the two frames. Thus, the coil spring can be effectively supported at its opposite spring ends on one of the two frames in order to effectively transfer the spring force to the two frames and thus easily urge them into the clamping position. For example, the corresponding frames can have a projection section (e.g. a pin-like projection section) which, when the coil spring is in place, extends into the respective spring end of the coil spring, preferably along the spring's longitudinal axis, and thus secures the coil spring in a particularly simple and effective manner.

[0031] The spring element can preferably be arranged such that, at least when electrical conductors are inserted in the clamping position, it supports the pushing of at least one of the two clamping springs—i.e., one of the first and second—into the associated conductor insertion channel to close the associated conductor clamping point. The spring element can thus directly support one of the clamping springs, so that its spring force supports the closing of the corresponding conductor clamping point, thus effectively ensuring the electrical contact of the associated electrical conductor and thus of the two electrical conductors to each other, and enabling increased pull-off protection.

[0032] The clamping springs are preferably made of spring steel, particularly preferably as a stamped and bent part. This allows the clamping springs to be provided in a simple and effective manner.

[0033] The spring element is preferably made of spring steel. This allows the spring element to be provided in a simple and effective manner.

[0034] The frames are preferably manufactured as integral, one-piece components. This allows for particularly simple, stable, and effective deployment.

[0035] The frames are preferably made of sheet metal. Since the connecting terminal is intended to provide direct contact—i.e., a direct conductor connection—with the conductors inserted into it, the material of the frame or carrier can be selected independently of good electrical conductivity; unlike, for example, in the prior art, where copper is often chosen for the contact frame. Thus, a suitable sheet metal material offers the possibility of producing the frames both particularly stable and cost-effectively.

[0036] The frames can preferably each be manufactured as a stamped and bent part. This allows the frames to be manufactured particularly simply and effectively using known manufacturing methods. The two frames can preferably together enclose a contact space in which the conductor insertion channels and / or the conductor clamping points and / or the conductor contact space and / or the clamping springs and / or the spring element are / are at least partially accommodated. The frames can thus provide a defined area for the relevant components or sections, which is at least partially delimited from the outside and thus protected.

[0037] The two frames can preferably have corresponding guide sections to guide the frames relative to each other at least between the clamping position and the release position. Since the frames themselves have these guide elements, the carrier as a whole can be provided in a particularly compact manner, while enabling secure and simple guidance. The relative movement along the movement axis is preferably a translational movement.

[0038] The two frames can preferably have stop sections to block the two frames in the clamping position away from the release position and / or in the release position away from the clamping position. Thus, the two frames directly provide corresponding stops to reliably and precisely limit the relative movement within the intended, defined range of motion along the movement axis between the release position and the clamping position—or into the clamping position and / or into the release position.

[0039] The conductor insertion channels can preferably each be delimited by at least one wall section of the associated frame extending parallel to the associated conductor insertion direction and facing the clamping edges of the associated clamping spring, in order to form the conductor clamping point therebetween together with the clamping edge. Thus, the corresponding frame, by means of the wall section, provides a simple but stable section against which the corresponding clamping spring can press the electrical conductor for secure positioning and anti-pulling protection, thus forming an effective conductor clamping point.

[0040] The conductor insertion channels can preferably each be delimited at least by side wall sections of the associated frame extending on both sides with respect to the associated conductor insertion direction and with respect to the movement axis. Thus, the conductor insertion channel provides lateral guidance for the electrical conductors to be inserted through the corresponding side wall sections on both sides, so that the electrical conductors cannot move out of the contact position even when they are pushed against one another. Thus, the corresponding direct conductor connection can be permanently maintained or ensured in a particularly simple and effective manner.

[0041] The clamping edges, which are inclined in the direction of the corresponding conductor insertion direction, converge accordingly toward the conductor clamping point and can thus preferably serve as an insertion bevel toward the conductor clamping point. Preferably, the corresponding wall sections and / or one or both of the side wall sections can also be inclined or converge accordingly toward the conductor clamping point, thus forming insertion bevels and consequently creating an effective conductor insertion channel or conductor insertion funnel converging toward the conductor clamping point. This facilitates the insertion of an electrical conductor on the one hand, and enables effective and targeted guidance of the electrical conductor to the conductor clamping point on the other.

[0042] The conductor entry channels preferably extend parallel to each other. This allows for the largest possible overlap area, enabling a particularly secure direct conductor connection.

[0043] The conductor insertion channels preferably extend perpendicular to the axis of movement. By pushing the frames into the clamping position, the forces exerted to press the electrical conductors together can be transmitted particularly effectively—because they are perpendicular.

[0044] The conductor insertion directions of the conductor insertion channels are particularly preferably directed toward each other or essentially toward each other. This allows the electrical conductors to be inserted from two opposite sides, facilitating connection.

[0045] The connecting terminal can preferably further comprise an insulating housing that at least partially accommodates the carrier. This allows the corresponding contacting elements to be accommodated in a simple and secure manner. The insulating housing also provides reliable protection for an operator while simultaneously improving the handling of a corresponding connecting terminal. The insulating housing can preferably be designed in such a way that the required clearance and creepage distances can be easily and reliably maintained.

[0046] The insulating housing can preferably support the actuating part, simplifying the construction of the connecting terminal and allowing the actuating part to be positioned at a desired, defined position. The support can preferably be a movable support, so that the actuating part is particularly effectively attached to the housing. The insulating housing can particularly preferably have the counter-support section, so that the advantages described for this purpose can be transferred to the insulating housing accordingly.

[0047] According to a further aspect, the present invention further relates to a modular terminal block comprising a plurality of the connecting terminals according to the invention. The plurality of connecting terminals are arranged in a row next to one another; preferably perpendicular to the conductor insertion directions and / or with their movement axes aligned parallel to one another. In a preferred embodiment, the insulating housings of adjacent connecting terminals can be connected to one another by a connecting section. The insulating housings and the connecting sections can preferably be formed integrally with one another; for example, in a plastic injection molding process, such as a two-component injection molding process.The connecting sections can preferably have or form a predetermined separation point for separating the adjacent connecting terminals, so that any number of interconnected connecting terminals can be removed from the modular plug-in terminal. For example, the connecting terminal can be used in a modular plug-in terminal that typically serves as a lamp terminal.

[0048] Further advantages, features, and embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the figures of the accompanying drawings. They show:

[0049] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a connecting terminal in the clamping position according to a first embodiment of the present invention,

[0050] Fig. 2 is a side view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 1 seen in direction II,

[0051] Fig. 3 is a front view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 1 seen in direction III,

[0052] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 1 in the

[0053] Release position,

[0054] Fig. 5 is a side view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 4 seen in direction V,

[0055] Fig. 6 is a front view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 4 seen in direction VI, Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 4 in the release position with inserted electrical conductors,

[0056] Fig. 8 is a side sectional view of the connecting terminal with inserted electrical conductors according to Fig. 7,

[0057] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the connecting terminal with inserted electrical conductors according to Fig. 7 in the clamping position,

[0058] Fig. 10 is a side sectional view of the connecting terminal with inserted electrical conductors according to Fig. 9,

[0059] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a connecting terminal in the clamping position according to a second embodiment of the present invention,

[0060] Fig. 12 is a perspective rear view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 11,

[0061] Fig. 13 is a side view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 11 seen in direction XIII,

[0062] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the connecting terminal according to Fig. 11 in the release position with inserted electrical conductors,

[0063] Fig. 15 is a side sectional view of the connecting terminal with inserted electrical conductors according to Fig. 14,

[0064] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the connecting terminal with inserted electrical conductors according to Fig. 14 in the clamping position, and

[0065] Fig. 17 is a side sectional view of the connecting terminal with inserted electrical conductors according to Fig. 16.

[0066] The figures show two embodiments of a connecting terminal 1 according to the invention for connecting electrical conductors Li, L2 in a direct conductor connection.

[0067] The connecting terminal 1 has a support 2 formed by at least—and here precisely—two frames 3, 4, namely a first frame 3 and a second frame 4. The frames 3, 4 are preferably each manufactured as integral, one-piece components, as can be seen from the figures. The frames 3, 4 can each be made from a single sheet metal. The frames 3, 4 can preferably each be manufactured as a stamped and bent part.

[0068] The two frames 3, 4 are movable relative to one another along a movement axis X, as can be seen, for example, from the combination of Figures 1 and 4 or Figures 11 and 14. The two frames 3, 4 can have mutually corresponding guide sections 30, 40 in order to move the frames 3, 4 relative to one another in a guided manner; this is preferably at least between a clamping position described below and a release position described below. The movement is preferably a translational movement along the movement axis X, which here extends in a straight line. In the simplest embodiment, the mutually corresponding guide sections 30, 40 can, for example, be mutually facing wall sections of the frames 3, 4.It is also conceivable that the guide sections 30, 40 have, on the one hand, a projection extending transversely / perpendicularly to the movement axis X and, on the other hand, a recess extending parallel to the movement axis X, which receives the projection in a manner guided along the movement axis X.

[0069] The carrier 2 has at least—and here precisely—two conductor insertion channels 5, 6, each for inserting an electrical conductor Li, L2 in a conductor insertion direction Ri, R2. Thus, the carrier 2 has a first conductor insertion channel 5 for inserting a first electrical conductor Li in a first conductor insertion direction Ri, and a second conductor insertion channel 6 for inserting a second electrical conductor L2 in a second conductor insertion direction R2. The conductor insertion channels 5, 6 can be seen in particular in the sectional views of Figures 8, 10, 15, and 17, but can also be seen in the perspective views of Figures 1, 4, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, and 16.

[0070] The conductor insertion channels 5, 6 preferably extend parallel to one another, as is particularly evident in the sectional views of Figures 8, 10, 15, and 17. The conductor insertion channels 5, 6 preferably extend perpendicular to the movement axis X. The conductor insertion directions Ri, R2 of the conductor insertion channels 5, 6 are preferably directed toward one another, so that the conductor insertion channels 5, 6 are consequently accessible from opposite sides of the connecting terminal 1, as is particularly evident in Figures 7 to 10 and 14 to 17.

[0071] The conductor insertion channels 5, 6 overlap in an overlap region B, viewed in the direction of the movement axis X, so that the conductor insertion channels 5, 6 form, at least in the overlap region B, a common conductor contact space 20 for direct contact—i.e., for direct conductor connection—of the electrical conductors Li, L2 inserted into the two conductor insertion channels 5, 6. Accordingly, the conductor insertion channels 5, 6 preferably run directly adjacent to one another in the conductor contact space 20 or at least partially overlap one another. In this way, a direct conductor connection is enabled, as can be seen in particular from the sectional views in Figures 10 and 17.

[0072] The conductor insertion channels 5, 6 are preferably each delimited at least by side wall sections 50, 60 of the associated frame 3, 4 extending on both sides with respect to the associated conductor insertion direction Ri, R2 and with respect to the movement axis X. As can be seen from the figures, the side wall sections 50, 60 of the two conductor insertion channels 5, 6 can each be part of the same frame wall section 33, 43 of the corresponding frame 3, 4.

[0073] The connecting clamp 1 can further comprise an actuating part 7 for moving the two frames 3, 4 relative to one another along the movement axis X - i.e. for moving the first frame 3 relative to the second frame 4 along the movement axis X - between a clamping position (cf. Figures 1-3, 9-13, 16 and 17) and a release position (cf. Figures 4-8, 14 and 15). The actuating part 7 can preferably be movably mounted on one of the two frames 3, 4. This can be clearly seen, for example, in the second exemplary embodiment in Figures 11-17 in the lower region of the connecting clamp 1. In the exemplary embodiment in Figures 1-10, the actuating part 7 is also movably mounted on the upper side of one of the two frames - here the first frame 3.

[0074] The actuating part 7 can have a bearing section 70, with which it is mounted in a counter-bearing section 17 of the connecting terminal 1, rotatable about a rotation axis D. The counter-bearing section 17 can be part of one of the two frames 3, 4 - here, for example, the first frame 3. In the first exemplary embodiment of Figures 1-10, the counter-bearing section 17 is, for example, part of an upper wall section 32 of the corresponding frame 3 - here, the first frame 3, while the counter-bearing section 17 in the second exemplary embodiment of Figures 11-17 is an arcuate section of the corresponding frame 3 - here, also the first frame 3 - which extends below the other frame 4 - here, the second frame 4. In Fig. 14, the actuating part 7 is shown slightly offset upwards to better illustrate the position and design of the corresponding components, in order to better identify the areas otherwise concealed by it, such as the counter-bearing section 17.

[0075] The actuating part 7 can preferably be movably mounted between a rest position (cf. Figures 1-3, 9-13, 16 and 17), in which the frames 3, 4 are or are located in the clamping position, and an actuating position (cf. Figures 4-8, 14 and 15), in which the frames 3, 4 are or are located in the release position.

[0076] The actuating part 7 can preferably have a manipulation section 71, by means of which an operator can manually operate the actuating part 7 and preferably move it between the rest position and the actuating position. As can be seen in particular from the first exemplary embodiment in Figures 1-10, the manipulation section 71 can preferably protrude axially with respect to the axis of rotation D. The manipulation section 71 also protrudes in the second exemplary embodiment in Figures 11-17. In both embodiments, the manipulation section 71 is provided such that it extends flat and thus compactly in the clamping position, while it protrudes exposed in the release position. Thus, an operator can easily recognize the state of the connecting terminal 1. In this way, it can be ensured that the actuating part 7 is securely in the clamping position for operation.

[0077] The actuating part 7 can be designed such that it remains in the clamping position and / or the release position or is releasably locked in the corresponding position. This simplifies assembly with the connecting terminal 1.

[0078] The actuating part 7 can preferably have a first support section 72, with which the actuating part 7 is supported on a second support section 42 of one of the two frames 4, 3—here, for example, the second frame 4 or the other of the two frames 4, 3—when moving from the rest position to the actuating position, in order to move the two frames 3, 4 from the clamping position to the release position. This is clearly visible, for example, in Figures 7 and 15. According to the first exemplary embodiment (cf. Figure 7), the first support section 72 is formed by two mutually parallel extending extensions 77 of the actuating part 7, which extend or protrude axially with respect to the rotational axis D—here opposite the manipulation section 71. The arcuate distal end of these extensions forms the first support section 72.The second support section 42 is formed here by a laterally projecting web section 21 of the other of the two frames 4, 3 - here the second frame 4. In the exemplary embodiment of Figures 11-17, the first support section 72, comparable to the first exemplary embodiment, is formed as a section of the actuating part 7 that projects axially with respect to the rotation axis D. The second support section 42 is formed by an underside of the second frame 4, against which the first support section 72 extends and presses in a cam-like manner by rotational movement of the actuating part 7 about the rotation axis D, thus moving the two frames 3, 4 relative to one another along the movement axis X into the release position. The actuating part 7 can preferably be made of a plastic; this is particularly preferably done using a plastic injection molding process.

[0079] In the clamping position, for each conductor insertion channel 5, 6, a clamping spring 8, 9 with a distal clamping edge 80, 90 protrudes into the associated conductor insertion channel 5, 6 at an angle in the direction of the conductor insertion direction Ri, R2 of the associated conductor insertion channel 5, 6 to form a conductor clamping point Kl, K2 for the associated electrical conductor Li, L2. In the exemplary embodiments shown here as examples, this means that in the clamping position, a first clamping spring 8 with a distal first clamping edge 80 protrudes into the first conductor insertion channel 5 at an angle in the direction of the first conductor insertion direction Ri to form a first conductor clamping point Kl for the first electrical conductor Li, and a second clamping spring 9 with a distal second clamping edge 90 protrudes into the second conductor insertion channel 6 at an angle in the direction of the second conductor insertion direction Ri to form a second conductor clamping point K2 for the second electrical conductor L2.This is particularly evident in the sectional views of Figures 10 and 17.

[0080] In the release position, the clamping springs 8, 9 each release the associated conductor insertion channel 5, 6 for inserting (or removing) the associated electrical conductor Li, L2 and thus open the respective conductor clamping point Ki, K2. In the exemplary embodiments shown here, this means that in the release position, the first clamping spring 8 releases the first conductor insertion channel 5 for inserting (or removing) the first electrical conductor Li and thus opens the first conductor clamping point Kl, and the second clamping spring 9 releases the second conductor insertion channel 6 for inserting (or removing) the second electrical conductor L2 and thus opens the second conductor clamping point K2, as can be seen, for example, in the sectional views in Figures 8 and 15.

[0081] The clamping springs 8, 9 can preferably be made of spring steel; this is preferably done as a stamped and bent part.

[0082] At least one, and here both, of the clamping springs 8, 9 can be mounted on one of the two frames 3, 4. Thus, in the first embodiment of Figures 1-10, the two clamping springs 8, 9 are mounted on the same—here the second—frame 4. In this embodiment, the actuating part 7 is then mounted on the other of the two frames (here, the first frame 3). The at least one, and here both, of the clamping springs 8, 9 can then have a trigger section 84, 94, which, during the movement from the clamping position to the release position, is or can be brought into operative connection with a contact section 34 of the other of the two frames (here, the first frame 3), in order to open the associated conductor clamping point(s) Ki, K2, as can be seen from the combination of Figures 7 and 8.Similarly, in the second embodiment, the second clamping spring 9 has the release section 94, which, when moving from the clamping position to the release position, is or can be brought into operative connection with a contact section 34 of the corresponding other of the two frames - here the first frame 3 - in order to open the associated conductor clamping point K2, as can be seen from the combination of Figures 12 and 15.

[0083] As can be seen in particular with reference to Figures 1-7, the second support section 42 and the contact section 34 of the other of the two frames 4, 3 (here the second frame 4) can be formed as an integral web 21 of the other of the two frames 4, 3 (here the second frame 4).

[0084] As can be seen in particular from the second embodiment of Figures 11-17, the actuating part 7 and one of the clamping springs (here, for example, the first clamping spring 8) can be mounted on one of the two frames 3, 4 (here on the first frame 3), and the other clamping spring (here the right or second clamping spring 9) can then be mounted on the other of the two frames 4, 3 (here the second frame 4).

[0085] At least one or both of the clamping springs 8, 9 can therefore be mounted on one of the two frames 3, 4. As can be seen with reference to the second exemplary embodiment in Figures 11-17, the at least one clamping spring (here, for example, the first clamping spring 8) can have a trigger section 84, which, during the movement from the clamping position to the release position, is or can be brought into operative connection with a contact section 74 of the actuating part 7 in order to open the associated conductor clamping point (here, the first conductor clamping point K1), as can be seen in particular from the sectional view in Figure 15. This is particularly effective when the respective clamping spring 8, 9 is mounted on the same frame 3, 4 as the actuating part 7, as is the case, for example, for the first clamping spring 8 in the second exemplary embodiment in Figures 11-17.

[0086] The connecting clamp 1 further comprises a spring element 10 which urges the two frames 3, 4 into the clamping position; this preferably occurs with increasing spring force when moving towards the release position.

[0087] As can be seen in particular from the sectional views of Figures 15 and 17 with regard to the second exemplary embodiment, the spring element 10 can have a distal third clamping edge 100 which, in the clamping position (cf. Fig. 17), projects into the conductor contact space 20 in order to press the two inserted electrical conductors Li, L2 against one another in the conductor contact space 20 (i.e., to establish or support / improve / increase the direct conductor connection), and in the release position, releases the conductor contact space 20 for the insertion (or removal) of the two electrical conductors Li, L2 - i.e., here the first and second electrical conductors Li, L2 (cf. Fig. 15). The spring element 10 can also, comparable to the clamping springs 8, 9, have a corresponding triggering section 104 comparable to the triggering sections 84, 94, which can be connected to a contact section 34 of the frame 3, 4 other than the frame carrying the spring element 10 (here, for example,of the first frame 3) and / or the actuating part 7 interact.

[0088] The clamping springs 8, 9 (cf. both illustrated embodiments) and preferably also the spring element 10 (cf. the second embodiment) can each have a holding leg 81, 91, 101, which is mounted or fastened to one of the two frames 3, 4, a spring arch 82, 92, 102 extending from the holding leg 81, 91, 101, and a clamping leg 83, 93, 103 extending away from the spring arches 82, 92, 102 on a side opposite the holding leg 81, 91, 101, which has the clamping edge 80, 90, 100 at a distal end, here preferably at an end distal to the spring arch 82, 92, 102.

[0089] The spring element 10 can preferably be formed integrally with at least one of the clamping springs (here in the second embodiment the right or second clamping spring 9) and further preferably, as shown, in one piece.

[0090] The clamping springs 8, 9 and also the spring element 10 can be mounted on the corresponding frame 3, 4 in different ways. A detachable or non-detachable mounting is conceivable. For example, as shown, the clamping springs 8, 9 can be riveted to the associated frame 3, 4. This can also apply to the spring element 10, as shown by way of example in the second exemplary embodiment.

[0091] As can be seen from the first embodiment, the spring element 10 can also be designed as a spiral spring. The spiral spring 10 can extend and act along a spring longitudinal axis F. The spring longitudinal axis F preferably extends parallel to the movement axis X.

[0092] The coil spring 10 can be mounted or fastened at one of its spring ends 105 to a first fastening section 35 of one of the two frames (here, the left or first frame 3), and with its other spring end 106, opposite one spring end 105, to a second fastening section 46 of the other of the two frames (here, the right or second frame 4). The respective fastening sections 35, 46 can, as can be seen, for example, in Figures 8 and 10, be designed as projection sections projecting into the respective spring end 105, 106 along the spring's longitudinal axis F.

[0093] The spring element 10 can preferably be arranged such that, at least when the electrical conductors Li, L2 are inserted in the clamping position, it supports the pushing of at least one of the two clamping springs (in Fig. 10, for example, the right or second clamping spring 9) into the associated conductor insertion channel (here, the second conductor insertion channel 6) in order to close the associated conductor clamping point (here, consequently, the second conductor clamping point K2).

[0094] The spring element 10 can also preferably be made of spring steel.

[0095] The two frames 3, 4 can preferably together enclose or delimit a contact space A in which the conductor insertion channels 5, 6 and / or the conductor clamping points Ki, K2 and / or the conductor contact space 20 and / or the clamping springs 8, 9 and / or the spring element 10 are or are at least partially accommodated.

[0096] The two frames 3, 4 preferably have stop sections 37, 47 in order to block the two frames 3, 4 in the clamping position away from the release position, as is particularly clearly shown, for example, by the two base sections of the frames 3, 4 in the sectional view of Fig. 10 (see also Fig. 17). The two frames 3, 4 can also have stop sections in order to block the two frames 3, 4 in the release position away from the clamping position. In the exemplary embodiments shown here, the latter stop sections are not absolutely necessary, since this task is performed by the clamping springs 8, 9 and / or spring element 10 compressed towards the release position. For example, in the first exemplary embodiment of Figs. 1-10, the fastening sections or projection sections 35, 46 can serve as such stop sections.

[0097] The conductor insertion channels 5, 6 can preferably each be delimited by at least one wall section 31, 41 of the associated frame 3, 4 extending parallel to the associated conductor insertion direction Ri, R2 and facing the clamping edge 80, 90 of the associated clamping spring 8, 9, in order to form the conductor clamping point Ki, K2 therebetween together with the clamping edge 80, 90, as can be seen in particular from the sectional views of Figures 8, 10, 15 and 17. The connecting terminal i preferably further comprises an insulating housing (not shown) which at least partially accommodates the carrier 2. The insulating housing can also support the actuating part 7, preferably support it movably, and particularly preferably comprise the counter-support section 17 for this purpose.

[0098] A series plug-in terminal (not shown) according to the invention can also be formed by using several of the connecting terminals 1 according to the invention. For this purpose, the several connecting terminals 1 are arranged in series next to one another, preferably perpendicular to the or one of the conductor insertion directions Ri, R2 and / or with their movement axes X aligned parallel to one another.

[0099] If the connecting terminals 1 have the above-described insulating housing, it is conceivable that the insulating housings of the adjacent connecting terminals 1 are then connected to one another with a connecting section, thus easily forming a connected modular terminal. The connecting sections can preferably have or form a predetermined separation point for separating the adjacent connecting terminals 1.

[0100] The present invention is not limited by the embodiments described above, as long as it is encompassed by the subject matter of the following claims.

Claims

Claims 1. A connecting terminal (1) for connecting electrical conductors (Li, L2) in a direct conductor connection, comprising: a carrier (2) formed by two frames (3, 4) which are movable relative to one another along a movement axis (X), wherein the carrier (2) has two conductor insertion channels (5, 6), each for inserting an electrical conductor (Li, L2) in a conductor insertion direction (Ri, R2), wherein the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) overlap in an overlap region (B) as seen in the direction of the movement axis (X), so that the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) form, at least in the overlap region (B), a common conductor contact space (20) for the direct conductor connection of the electrical conductors (Li, L2) inserted into the two conductor insertion channels (5, 6), an actuating part (7) for moving the two frames (3, 4) relative to one another along the movement axis (X) between: • a clamping position in which, for each conductor insertion channel (5, 6), a clamping spring (8, 9) with a distal clamping edge (80, 90) projects inclined in the direction of the conductor insertion direction (Ri, R2) of the associated conductor insertion channel (5, 6) into the associated conductor insertion channel (5, 6) to form a conductor clamping point (Kl, K2) for the associated electrical conductor (Li, L2), and • a release position in which the clamping springs (8, 9) each release the associated conductor insertion channel (5, 6) for inserting the associated electrical conductor (Li, L2) and thus open the respective conductor clamping point (Ki, K2), and a spring element (10) which urges the two frames (3, 4) into the clamping position.

2. Connecting terminal (1) according to claim 1, wherein the actuating part (7) is movably mounted on one of the two frames (3, 4).

3. Connecting clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating part (7) has a bearing section (70) with which it is mounted in a counter-bearing section (17) of the connecting clamp (1), preferably of one of the two frames (3, 4), so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis (D).

4. Connection terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating part (7) can be moved between a rest position in which the frames (3, 4) are in the clamping position, and an actuating position in which the frames (3, 4) are in the release position, is movably mounted.

5. Connecting terminal (1) according to claim 4, wherein the actuating part (7) has a first support section (72) with which the actuating part (7) is supported on a second support section (42) of one of the two frames (4, 3), preferably the other of the two frames (4, 3), when moving from the rest position to the actuating position, in order to move the two frames (3, 4) from the clamping position to the release position, wherein the first support section (70) particularly preferably projects axially with respect to the axis of rotation (D).

6. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating part (7) has a manipulation section (71) by means of which an operator can manually operate the actuating part (7) and preferably move it between the rest position and the actuating position, wherein the manipulation section (71) particularly preferably protrudes axially with respect to the axis of rotation (D).

7. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the clamping springs (8, 9) is mounted on one of the two frames (3, 4), and wherein the at least one clamping spring (8, 9) has a trigger section (84, 94) which, when moved from the clamping position to the release position, is in operative connection with a contact section (34) of the other of the two frames (4, 3) in order to open the associated conductor clamping point (K1, K2).

8. Connection terminal (1) according to claim 4 and 7, wherein the second support portion (42) and the contact portion (34) of the other of the two frames (4, 3) are formed as an integral web (21) of the other of the two frames (4, 3).

9. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the clamping springs (8, 9) is mounted on one of the two frames (3, 4), and wherein the at least one clamping spring (8, 9) has a trigger section (84, 94) which, when moved from the clamping position to the release position, is in operative connection with a contact section (74) of the actuating part (7) in order to open the associated conductor clamping point (Ki, K2).

10. Connection terminal (i) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating part (7) is mounted on one of the two frames (3, 4), and the two clamping springs (8, 9) are mounted on the other of the two frames (4, 3).

11. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the actuating part (7) and one of the clamping springs (8, 9) are mounted on one of the two frames (3, 4), and wherein the other clamping spring (9, 8) is mounted on the other of the two frames (4, 3).

12. Connection terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring element (10) has a distal third clamping edge (100) which, in the clamping position, projects into the conductor contact space (20) in order to urge the two inserted electrical conductors (Li, L2) against one another in the conductor contact space (20), and, in the release position, releases the conductor contact space (20) for the insertion of the two electrical conductors (Li, L2).

13. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring element (10) is designed as a spiral spring.

14. Connecting terminal (1) according to claim 13, wherein the spiral spring (10) extends and acts along a spring longitudinal axis (F) which extends parallel to the movement axis (X), and / or wherein the spiral spring (10) is mounted or fastened at one of its spring ends (105) to a first fastening section (35) of one of the two frames (3, 4), and with its other spring end (106) opposite the one spring end (105) to a second fastening section (46) of the other of the two frames (4, 3).

15. Connection terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring element (10) is arranged such that, at least when electrical conductors (Li, L2) are inserted in the clamping position, it urges at least one of the two clamping springs (8, 9) into the associated conductor insertion channel (5, 6) in a supporting manner in order to close the associated conductor clamping point (Ki, K2).

16. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping springs (8, 9) and preferably also the spring element (10) each comprise: • a holding leg (81, 91, 101) which is mounted or attached to one of the two frames (3, 4), • a spring arch (82, 92, 102) extending from the holding leg (81, 91, 101), and • a clamping leg (83, 93, 103) extending away from the spring arch (82, 92, 102) on a side opposite the holding leg (81, 91, 101), which has the clamping edge (80, 90, 100) at a distal end, preferably at an end distal to the spring arch (82, 92, 102).

17. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring element (10) is formed integrally with at least one of the clamping springs (8, 9) and further preferably in one piece.

18. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping springs (8, 9) are made of spring steel, preferably as a stamped and bent part, and / or wherein the spring element (10) is made of spring steel.

19. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the frames (3, 4) are each manufactured as integral one-piece components, and / or wherein the frames (3, 4) are each manufactured from a sheet metal, and / or wherein the frames (3, 4) are each manufactured as a stamped and bent part.

20. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two frames (3, 4) together enclose a contact space (A) in which at least partially the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) and / or the conductor clamping points (Ki, K2) and / or the conductor contact space (20) and / or the clamping springs (8, 9) and / or the spring element (10) is / are received.

21. Connecting clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two frames (3, 4) have mutually corresponding guide sections (30, 40) in order to move the frames (3, 4) in a guided manner relative to one another at least between the clamping position and the release position.

22. Connecting clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two frames (3, 4) have stop sections (37, 47) to block the two frames (3, 4) in the clamping position away from the release position, and / or to block them in the release position away from the clamping position. 23- Connecting terminal (i) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) are each delimited by at least one wall section (31, 41) of the associated frame (3, 4) extending parallel to the associated conductor insertion direction (Ri, R2) and facing the clamping edge (80, 90) of the associated clamping spring (8, 9) in order to form the conductor clamping point (Ki, K2) therebetween together with the clamping edge (80, 90).

24. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) are each delimited at least by side wall sections (50, 60) of the associated frame (3, 4) extending on both sides with respect to the associated conductor insertion direction (Ri, R2) and with respect to the movement axis (X).

25. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) extend parallel to one another, and / or wherein the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) extend perpendicular to the movement axis (X), and / or wherein the conductor insertion directions (Ri, R2) of the conductor insertion channels (5, 6) are directed towards one another.

26. Connecting terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an insulating housing which at least partially accommodates the carrier (2).

27. Connecting terminal (1) according to claim 26, wherein the insulating material housing supports the actuating part (7), preferably supports it movably, particularly preferably having the counter-bearing section (17) for this purpose.

28. A series plug-in terminal comprising a plurality of the connecting terminals (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which are arranged in series next to one another, preferably perpendicular to the conductor insertion directions (Ri, R2) and / or with their movement axes (X) aligned parallel to one another.

29. A modular plug-in terminal according to claim 28 with a connecting terminal (1) according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the insulating material housings of adjacent connecting terminals (1) are connected to one another by a connecting section.

30. A series plug-in terminal according to claim 29, wherein the connecting sections have or form a predetermined separation point for separating the respective adjacent connecting terminals (1).

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