Power connection module, for clamping an electrical cable termination by a blade of which at least one deformable part is intended to constitute part of a terminal block of a connection assembly.

Abstract

Power connection module, with clamping of an electrical cable termination by a blade of which at least one deformable part is intended to constitute a part of a terminal block of a connection assembly. The invention essentially consists of an electrical connection module (3, 3', 3''; 3.1, 3.2, 3.3), intended to constitute a part of a terminal block of a connection assembly, of longitudinal axis (X), with a body provided with a cavity in which, after having been inserted, a cable termination contact is clamped between a fixed part and a transversely deformable part in contact with a blade, the clamping being carried out from the outside by a tool and by means of a clamping mechanism with a cam and force transmission part, or with a lever, housed in the body of the module.The cam-type clamping mechanism ensures the individual clamping of a termination contact to guarantee the desired electrical continuity, with a significant effort and in a reduced footprint within the module, the body of which is small. Figure for the abstract: Fig.4.

Description

Title of the invention: Power connection module, with clamping of an electric cable termination by a blade of which at least one deformable part is intended to constitute a part of a terminal block of a connection assembly. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrical power connectors.

[0002] More particularly, it concerns terminal block connection assemblies.

[0003] By "terminal block" is meant here and within the scope of the present invention, a device for ensuring electrical continuity between a cable and another part of an installation. A terminal block, also known as a connection terminal or screw terminal, is an electrically insulated module that fixes together two or more electrical wires / cables, intended to be electrically connected to each other, and comprises an insulating support and at least one clamping component for fixing the wires / cables.

[0004] By “contact” is meant here and within the framework of the present invention, an element made of electrically conductive material for allowing the electric current to pass.

[0005] Although described with reference to a preferred application, aeronautics, and more particularly aircraft wiring, the invention can be implemented in any other application which requires a power connection, in particular several hundred amperes and / or volts and particularly of a large number of electrical cables / wires between them in a junction zone. Prior art

[0006] One of the aircraft wiring operations consists of electrically connecting together a large number of electrical power cables / wires.

[0007] This operation is usually implemented using a screw terminal block, fixed to the structure of the aircraft, and into which the plurality of electrical cables / wires are inserted and then fixed by clamping.

[0008] Figures 1 and 2 show an example of such an existing terminal block, generally designated by the reference 1, which is designed to connect two or more electrical cables 2 equipped with terminals 20 at their ends by a screw-nut system.

[0009] This terminal block 1 firstly comprises an electrically insulating support 10 in which terminal screws 11 are fixed, each of which, with a nut 12, forms a screw-nut system for tightening the terminals 20 equipping the cables 2.

[0010] A washer, in particular electrically conductive, 13, of the corrugated washer type, is provided for each screw-nut system.

[0011] An electrically conductive bar 14 is crossed by each terminal screw 11. This bar 14 forms a bearing surface for the cable lugs 20 and thus constitutes an electrical shunt between the cables 2 to be electrically connected. This plate 14 is optional and each screw 11 is electrically independent. Alternatively, the plate 14 may extend only over a portion of the length and electrically connect only a portion of the screws.

[0012] The support 10 is fixed to an aircraft structure S by column screws 15.

[0013] A cover 16 held by the column screws 15 forms a protective cover for the screw-nut systems 11, 12.

[0014] Since the terminal block 1 is not watertight, an additional cover commonly called an “umbrella” is fixed to the structure of the aircraft, above the terminal block to prevent condensed moisture from dripping directly onto the cables 2 connected in the terminal block.

[0015] In addition to this non-sealing aspect, such a screw terminal 1 has many major drawbacks.

[0016] First of all, the lugs 20 must be perfectly oriented to be threaded around the terminal screws 11 for a satisfactory electrical connection. This most often implies that an operator has to untwist the cables 2.

[0017] The number of parts to be handled (screws, nuts, washers, shunt bar, cover, umbrella part) by an operator in charge of assembly is large, and moreover, there is a high risk of losing parts, which thus induces a risk of foreign objects, or mechanical debris (FOD, the English acronym for "Foreign Object Damage") that can cause damage, which is absolutely to be avoided in the aeronautics field.

[0018] This risk of loss of parts is all the more important since the areas in which the existing terminal blocks 1 are installed have difficult and / or very restricted access and / or a location that is inconvenient for the operator. For example, the insulating support 10 is usually fixed on the ceiling side in the structure of an aircraft. This may imply that the lugs installed on the screws 11 do not stay in place until a nut 12 has also been put in place. In other words, there is no function of pre-holding the lugs in position on the screws.

[0019] In addition to the intrinsic screw tightening operations which can be lengthy for a dedicated operator, another operator is systematically dedicated to checking the tightening torques applied for fixing the cable lugs 20.

[0020] Also, a screw terminal block requires not to put the cables under tension to avoid electrical risks for the operators in charge of the electrical connection. These risks cannot be completely ruled out during tests to verify the proper functioning.

[0021] So, in the end, the installation time for a screw terminal block is long.

[0022] Furthermore, the lugs 20 may need to be oriented at 180°, which is not very compatible with power cables which are rigid, typically with a diameter of the order of AWG 000 (unit of measurement “American Wire Gauge”), or 10.4 mm.

[0023] Finally, screw terminals do not allow for modularity because the number of cables 2 that can be connected in a single terminal block is fixed.

[0024] Patent US10998649B2 discloses a terminal block in which, after its insertion into a cavity of a body, an electrical cable conductor is clamped between a fixed blade and a movable and deformable blade, actuated by a rotary lever directly by an operator. This solution is not directly adaptable to a cable termination. In addition, the clamping force is reduced. And finally, there is no locking of the inserted conductor. The actuation space of the rotary lever is also significant, requiring good accessibility for the operator's hand. However, such access is far from being possible in an aeronautical environment. Detection of the correct insertion of the cable is also not achieved.

[0025] CN211404771U also discloses a terminal block in which the tightening of a cable conductor is achieved by deformation of a contact blade by means of a pressure screw. This solution has the same drawbacks as that of patent US10998649B2. In addition, the end of the tightening force cannot be determined because it is directly linked to the manual screwing carried out. No detection of the correct insertion, at the correct depth, of the conductor is carried out.

[0026] To improve existing terminal blocks, the Applicant proposed in patent application EP3758165 a connection assembly which provides greater modularity, facilitates installation, particularly in areas with restricted access and / or for a large number of electrical wires / cables to be connected, and protects the operators responsible for the connection against electrical risks.

[0027] Although this solution gives complete satisfaction, there is still a need for improvement, in particular for the passage of high intensities, typically up to 400 A which implies a high contact pressure and therefore a high connection force, and this, without premature wear of the contacts appearing.

[0028] The invention aims to meet all or part of this need. Statement of the invention

[0029] To do this, the invention relates, according to one of its aspects, to an electrical connection module, intended to constitute a part of a terminal block of a connection assembly, of longitudinal axis (X) comprising: - at least one body made of electrically insulating material comprising at least a cavity extending along the X axis and adapted to accommodate an electrical cable termination, comprising a contact, preferably cylindrical, intended to be connected, preferably crimped onto an electrical cable; at least one blade comprising at least a part of a blade, which is electrically conductive and electrically conductive, housed fixedly or with play at least partly in the cavity, and at least a part of a blade, which is elastically deformable between a rest position in which it defines a space adapted to allow the insertion, along the X axis, of the contact of the electrical cable termination, and a deformed position in which it clamps, transversely to the X axis, the contact of the electrical cable termination so as to establish electrical continuity between the contact and the blade(s). at least one clamping mechanism, intended to be actuated by rotation from the outside comprising a means for transforming a rotation into a translation, transversely to the X axis, which exerts a force (F) on the deformable part of the blade to bring it from its rest position into its deformed position for clamping the contact of the electrical cable termination.

[0030] In other words, the invention essentially consists of a module for a terminal block connection assembly with a body provided with a cavity in which, after having been inserted, a cable termination contact is clamped between a fixed part and a transversely deformable part in contact with a blade, the clamping being carried out from the outside by a tool and by means of a clamping mechanism with a cam and force transmission part, or with a lever, housed in the body of the module.

[0031] The cam clamping mechanism ensures the individual clamping of a termination contact in order to guarantee the desired electrical continuity and this with a significant effort and in a reduced space requirement within the module whose body is of small dimensions.

[0032] Advantageously, the force transmission part is configured to be able to be inserted into a transverse groove of the termination contact in order to indicate the correct positioning (insertion) of the contact in the cavity. In the event of incorrect insertion, the force transmission part abuts against a part of the contact, preferably cylindrical, which does not allow the actuation of the clamping mechanism. Furthermore, the force transmission part prevents any sliding of the contact between the sheets.

[0033] As an advantageous option, a locking device makes it possible to lock the mechanism in the deformed position of the blade and therefore in the contact tightening configuration for the desired electrical continuity.

[0034] Preferably, the blade(s) are shaped to constitute at least two, preferably three, areas of direct support with the contact of the electrical termination in the deformed position of the second blade.

[0035] More preferably, the three support zones are distributed angularly at the periphery of the contact; Advantageously, they are arranged substantially at 120° from one another. This ensures well-distributed clamping around a cylindrical electrical termination contact.

[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the module comprises a single blade with a cross-section to the X axis, substantially U-shaped.

[0037] According to this embodiment, the clamping mechanism advantageously comprises a lever pivotally mounted in the body and accessible from the outside so as to deform at least one of the two branches of the U and thus bring it from its rest position to its deformed position.

[0038] According to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the module comprises at least one first blade, electrically conductive, housed in the cavity and rigid, and at least one second blade, electrically conductive, housed in the cavity and comprising at least one part elastically deformable between the rest position and the deformed position.

[0039] According to this other embodiment, the clamping mechanism comprises:

[0040] - a force transmission part, housed in the body,

[0041] - an interface part with a tool (H), mounted freely in rotation in a housing of the body and adapted to be rotated by the tool,

[0042] - a clamping cam, integral or made integrally with the interface part, the rotation of the clamping cam causing the translation of the force transmission part, transversely to the X axis, which exerts a force (F) on the second blade to bring it from its rest position into its deformed position for clamping the contact of the electrical cable termination.

[0043] Advantageously, the interface part may comprise an interface imprint with the tool, preferably a hollow hexagonal imprint.

[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment variant, the body of the module and / or the interface part comprises(s) at least one visual indicator arranged so as to be visible to an operator to indicate to him the position of the correct tightening of the contact of the electrical termination. The body of the module and / or the interface part may thus comprise, as a visual indicator, an area of ​​visible color.

[0045] According to an advantageous embodiment variant, the force transmission part comprises a locking portion adapted to be inserted, during the translation of said part, into a peripheral groove of the contact of the electrical termination and thus lock the latter in the body, preferably before or simultaneously with the tightening of the contact. Thus, the termination contact is locked in a correct insertion position before the tightening force is applied to it.

[0046] According to an advantageous characteristic, the locking portion has a shape complementary to that of the peripheral groove of the contact of the electrical termination.

[0047] According to an advantageous configuration, the second blade is mounted free in the first blade at one of its ends, and free at the other of its ends.

[0048] Preferably, the clamping cam is mounted in rotation between two branches of the first blade. This improves the absorption of mechanical forces, particularly in temperature-constrained environments.

[0049] According to an advantageous variant, the force transmission part further comprises a return portion for returning the second blade to its rest position, when loosening after unlocking the contact.

[0050] According to an advantageous embodiment, the body comprises an opening facing the cavity, internally provided with a plurality of longitudinal straight grooves, preferably regularly distributed angularly, each adapted to receive a straight groove formed around the sleeve of the electrical cable termination. The grooves of the termination sleeve allow the torsional forces of the cable to be taken up on the body of the module. In addition, they prevent rotation of the contact by sliding, once tightened in the connection module.

[0051] By choosing small angular sectors between grooves, we obtain an insertion of the contact in the module which does not require angular indexing.

[0052] According to an advantageous embodiment, the module comprises a locking / unlocking device for the clamping mechanism when the cam of the clamping is in its rotation position corresponding to the deformed position of the second blade.

[0053] According to a first variant embodiment, the locking device comprises: - a hole made in the interface part, - a rigid pin mounted on a spring, preferably a helical compression spring, the pin with the spring being housed inside the body of the module such that, in the deformed position of the second blade, the pin is inserted into the hole with the spring exerting a biasing force on the pin and thereby effecting locking of the clamping mechanism, its unlocking being effected by an applied torque to the interface part, which is adapted to overcome the biasing force of the spring.

[0054] According to a second variant embodiment, the locking device comprises: - a groove made in the interface part, - a rigid blade on a spring, preferably a coil spring pressure, the rigid blade being partially housed and the spring being housed inside the body of the module such that, in the deformed position of the second blade, the free end of the blade is inserted into the groove with the spring exerting a return force on the blade and thereby locking the clamping mechanism, its unlocking being achieved by pushing on a portion of the blade projecting from the body, which is adapted to overcome the return force of the spring.

[0055] According to a third variant embodiment, the locking device comprises: - at least one pin made on the periphery of the interface part or the clamping cam, - a spring, preferably a helical compression spring, housed inside the body of the module such that, in the deformed position of the second blade, the spring exerts a return force on the interface part and the clamping cam to wedge the pin in the body by releasing the interface part from the body, and thereby achieves the locking of the clamping mechanism, its unlocking being achieved by a push on the interface part, adapted to overcome the return force of the spring.

[0056] According to a fourth variant embodiment, the locking device comprises: - a slot made on an external face of the body, at the periphery of the interface part, - a flexible tab, integral or made integrally with the interface part such that, in the deformed position of the second blade, the free end of the tab is inserted into the slot, and thereby locks the clamping mechanism, its unlocking being achieved by releasing the free end of the tab, adapted to overcome the return force of the flexible tab

[0057] According to a first connection configuration, the first blade comprises a portion extending outside the body and adapted to be electrically connected by welding or screwing to a busbar.

[0058] The electrical connection module can also be dedicated to a connection between harnesses, i.e. between at least two separate electrical cable terminations.

[0059] Thus, according to a second connection configuration, the module comprises:

[0060] - two bodies aligned or side by side and fixed together or forming a single piece monobloc, - a single first blade being common to the cavities of the two bodies, - at least two second blades independent of each other, to tighten each one a contact, - at least two clamping mechanisms independent of each other. This allows at least two electrical cable terminations to be connected in series within the same module.

[0061] According to this second mode and a connection variant between a current input and three outputs are provided in the module: - each body comprises at least two cavities, aligned or not, the cavities preferably extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the module, - the two second blades of the same body being electrically connected to each other, preferably common to the cavities of the two bodies, so as to create an electrical shunt between the at least four electrical cable terminations when housed individually in the cavities.

[0062] According to a third connection configuration, the module comprises:

[0063] - two bodies aligned or side by side and fixed together or forming a single piece monobloc,

[0064] - a single first blade common to the cavities of the two bodies,

[0065] - a single second blade, comprising several independent deformable parts each to tighten a contact,

[0066] - at least two clamping mechanisms independent of each other.

[0067] The invention also relates to a terminal block connection assembly, comprising a plurality of modules of identical or different dimensions with cavities of identical or different dimensions for housing electrical terminations of identical or different dimensions.

[0068] The invention finally relates to a structure, in particular an aircraft structure, comprising at least one electrical connection module as described previously and / or at least one terminal block connection assembly as described above, preferably fixed to a support rail, itself intended to be fixed to the structure.

[0069] The advantages of the invention are numerous compared to existing systems, among which we can cite: - the elimination of cable orientation problems, which can be very rigid, by replacing the usual terminals with cylindrical contacts; - a reduction in the installation times of electrical cables in a structure, in particular an aircraft structure, by a rapid assembly system which guarantees effective tightening of the cable terminations, without the need for so-called torque tightening, i.e. by applying a specific tightening force in order to obtain maximum precision; - individual coupling of each electrical termination in a single or multi-cavity connection module; - effortless coupling since, before tightening, the gap between the two blades allows easy insertion without friction, which also has the advantage of not generating wear on the contact and / or its possible coating; - high contact pressure between the electrical contact of the termination of the cable and the contact blades within the module, which reduces the electrical contact resistance and thus allows a high current flow with reduced heating; - centering over a long length of the contact of the termination between the two contact blades within the module, which combined with the high contact pressure enables resistance to vibrations and wear of any possible contact coating; - detection of the correct positioning of the termination contact in the module by means of the locking device of the clamping mechanism; - both visual indication (marking on the module opposite an indicator on the interface part) and tactile indication (mechanical stop of the termination contact) of correct clamping of the termination contact in the module; - the removal of existing umbrella parts in an aircraft structure thanks to the waterproof solution with connection modules which house the electrical terminations in a waterproof manner in the cavities; - the absence of risk of loss of part (FOD for “Foreign Object Damage”), because the solution according to the invention is without independent, detachable part to install; - protection of operators against electrical risks, since they only have to directly handle electrically insulating parts (modules and insulating termination sleeves); - high modularity that can easily adapt to different wiring configurations; - the connection module is particularly suitable for a high-voltage power line (several hundred Volts), because there is only one potential in a connection module (phases and neutral are separated in different modules) and the creepage and insulation lines between electrical conductors are elongated.

[0070] The applications envisaged for a terminal block with modules according to the invention are numerous, among which we can cite the wiring of civil aircraft.

[0071] Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the detailed description of examples of implementation of the invention given by way of illustration and not limitation with reference to the following figures. Brief description of the drawings

[0072] [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] shows a perspective view of an example of a screw terminal block according to the state of the art used for electrical wiring in aircraft structures.

[0073] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is another perspective view of a screw terminal block according to the state of art showing lug wire harnesses connected in the terminal block.

[0074] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of a connection module according to a first embodiment of the invention, with two symmetrical bodies fixed to each other with aligned cavities each housing a contact of an electrical cable termination.

[0075] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is an exploded view of the module according to [Fig.3] with the two electrical cable terminations.

[0076] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a cross-sectional view taken at the level of the body of a connection module according to the first embodiment of the invention, showing the tightening of the contact of a cable termination made in the cavity of the body by means of the mechanism integrated in the latter.

[0077] [Fig.6A], [Fig.6B] Figures 6A and 6B are cross-sectional views at the level of the clamping mechanism of a module, showing respectively the position before clamping and after clamping with locking of a contact of an electrical cable termination.

[0078] [Fig.7A], [Fig.7B], [Fig.7C] Figures 7A, 7B and 7C are perspective views partial and cutaway view of the clamping mechanism of a module, showing respectively the position before clamping, a position of the contact of an electrical cable termination making it impossible to clamp and lock and after clamping with locking of the contact.

[0079] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] shows [Fig.7C] from another perspective viewpoint.

[0080] [Fig.9A], [Fig.9B] Figures 9A and 9B are cross-sectional views at the level of the clamping mechanism of a module according to an alternative embodiment, showing respectively the position after clamping with locking of a contact of an electric cable termination and the loosening position after unlocking, the second blade being returned to this position by a portion of the force transmission part.

[0081] [Fig.10] [Fig.10] is a perspective and cross-sectional view of a connection module according to a second embodiment of the invention, with a body whose cavity houses a contact of an electrical cable termination.

[0082] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] is a perspective view of a module according to [Fig. 10] showing after tightening with locking of a contact of an electrical cable termination.

[0083] [Fig.l2A], [Fig.l2B], [Fig.l2C] Figures 12A, 12B and 12C are perspective views of an insertion variant with rotation blocking of a contact of an electrical cable termination in a module.

[0084] [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] is a longitudinal sectional view of a sealed variant of a connection module according to the invention with two bodies fixed together, each housing a contact of an electrical cable termination.

[0085] [Fig. 14] [Fig. 14] is a cross-sectional view of the module according to [Fig. 13] showing the sealing at the clamping mechanism.

[0086] [Fig. 15] [Fig. 15] is a perspective and cutaway view of a connection module according to the first mode with two bodies each housing two adjacent cavities, arranged side by side, showing the electrical shunt produced within the module body by the deformable blade and the rigid blade.

[0087] [Fig. 16] [Fig. 16] is a perspective view of an embodiment of a connection module according to the first mode with two bodies each housing two adjacent cavities, which makes it possible to make an electrical connection between one electrical termination at the input and three at the output.

[0088] [Fig. 17] [Fig. 17] is a cross-sectional view of a module according to [Fig. 16], showing the electrical shunt made within the same module body by both the deformable blade and the rigid blade.

[0089] [Fig. 18] [Fig. 18] is a perspective and cutaway view of a module according to [Fig. 15], showing the electrical shunt made within the same module body but only with a rigid blade.

[0090] [Fig. 19] [Fig. 19] is a perspective and cutaway view of a connection module according to the first mode with two bodies each housing two adjacent cavities, with the rigid blades isolated from each other and the deformable blades also isolated from each other.

[0091] [Fig.20] [Fig.20] is a perspective and cutaway view of a connection module according to the first mode, according to a variant with a single second monobloc blade comprising two deformable parts.

[0092] [Fig.21] [Fig.21] is a perspective view of one embodiment of a terminal block to several connection modules connected to the same busbar.

[0093] [Fig.22A], [Fig.22B] Figures 22A and 22B illustrate in perspective view and partial cutaway of a first variant of locking / unlocking of the clamping mechanism of a connection module according to the invention, respectively in the unlocked and locked position of the latter.

[0094] [Fig.23A], [Fig.23B] Figures 23A and 23B illustrate in perspective view and partial cutaway of a second variant of locking / unlocking of the clamping mechanism of a connection module according to the invention, respectively in the unlocked and locked position of the latter.

[0095] [Fig.24A], [Fig.24B] Figures 24A and 24B illustrate in perspective view and partial cutaway of a third variant of locking / unlocking of the clamping mechanism of a connection module according to the invention, respectively in the unlocked and locked position of the latter.

[0096] [Fig.25A], [Fig.25B] Figures 25A and 25B illustrate in perspective view and partial cutaway of a fourth variant of locking / unlocking of the clamping mechanism of a connection module according to the invention, respectively in the unlocked and locked position of the latter. Detailed description

[0097] Throughout the present application, the terms "vertical", "lower", "upper", "bottom", "top", "below" and "above" are to be understood by reference to an electrical connection module in a fixed configuration, in particular to a support rail, being arranged horizontally.

[0098] Similarly, the terms “internal” and “external” are to be understood in relation to an electrical connection module body according to the invention.

[0099] For the sake of clarity, the same numerical reference is used for the same element of an electric cable according to the state of the art and of an electric cable according to the invention.

[0100] Figures 1 and 2 have already been described in detail in the preamble. They will therefore not be commented on below.

[0101] Figures 3 and 4 show an example of an electrical connection module according to a first embodiment of the invention, generally designated by the reference 3, intended to form part of a terminal block of a connection assembly.

[0102] This electrical connection module 3 comprises two bodies 30, preferably identical or symmetrical, fixed to each other. The fixing means between the two bodies 30 are not shown but they may be screws / nuts passing right through the bodies.

[0103] Each body 30 is electrically insulating with a longitudinal axis X, and intended to house, clamp, lock and connect at least one termination 4 of an electric cable 2.

[0104] More precisely, each body 30 comprises a cavity 31 within it and the two cavities 31, preferably of the same size, are opposite each other in each of which a termination 4 of electric cable 2 is inserted, tightened and locked, as explained below.

[0105] An electrical cable termination 4, with a central axis XI, comprises an electrically insulating sleeve 40 and a cylindrically shaped electrical contact 41 crimped onto an electrical cable 2, inserted and fixed in particular by snap-fastening, inside the sleeve 40.

[0106] The sleeve 40 comprises on its outer periphery straight grooves 42 which extend around the central axis XI over part of the length of the sleeve.

[0107] The cylindrical contact 41 is provided with a peripheral groove 43 which allows the detection of the correct insertion and the locking of the contact 41 in the cavity 31 of a body 30, as explained below.

[0108] A first electrically conductive blade 32 is housed fixedly or with a very low clearance to facilitate assembly in each cavity 31 and re-centering of the termination contact after tightening against the blade. In the example illustrated in [Fig.4], this first blade 32, of general U-shaped section, is common to the cavities 31 of the two bodies 30.

[0109] A second blade 33, preferably electrically conductive, is also housed in each cavity 31. This second blade 33 is elastically deformable between a rest position in which it defines with the first blade 32 a space adapted to allow the insertion, along the X axis, of the contact 41 of the electrical cable termination 4, and a deformed position in which it clamps with the first blade, transversely to the X axis, the contact of the electrical cable termination so as to establish electrical continuity between the contact 41 and the first and second blades 32 and 33.

[0110] To achieve this deformation of the blade 33 and therefore the tightening of the contact 41, the module 3 integrates a tightening mechanism 5 in each body 30, accessible from the outside and actuated by a tool which makes it possible to provide a significant tightening force.

[0111] This mechanism 5 comprises a force transmission part 50 housed in the body 30, an interface part 51 with a tool, mounted freely in rotation in a housing 34 of the body and adapted to be rotated by the tool, and a clamping cam 52, integral or made integrally with the interface part 51.

[0112] As shown in [Fig.5], when a contact 41 is inserted into the cavity 31, the rotation of the clamping cam 52 carried out by the rotation (R) of the interface part 51 causes the translation of the transmission part 50, transversely to the axis X, which exerts by means of the cam 52 a force (F) on the second blade 33 to bring it from its rest position ([Fig.6A]) into its deformed position for clamping the contact 41 ([Fig.6B]).

[0113] As also shown in [Fig.5], the blades 32 and 33 are advantageously shaped to constitute three direct support zones, arranged substantially at 120° to one another, as symbolized by the arrows, with the contact 41 in the deformed position of the second blade 33. The three angularly distributed direct support zones make it possible to balance the contact and to stabilize it mechanically in the connection module.

[0114] According to an advantageous assembly, the second blade 33 is mounted free in the first blade 32 at one of its ends 330, and free at the other of its ends 331 (figures 5, 6A, 6B).

[0115] According to another advantageous arrangement, the clamping cam 52 is mounted in rotation between two branches 320, 321 of the first blade 32 (figures 5, 6A, 6B). Thus, not only is a compact arrangement of the clamping mechanism 5 and the blades 32, 33 but also the recovery of mechanical forces passing from the cam to the blade 32 is improved, particularly under high temperature.

[0116] An advantageous variant consists of producing the force transmission part 50 with a locking portion 53 adapted to be inserted, during the translation of the part 50, into the peripheral groove 43 of the contact 41 of the electrical termination 4 and thus lock the latter in the body, preferably before or simultaneously with the tightening of the contact. As shown in [Fig.5], this locking portion 53 preferably has a shape complementary to that of the peripheral groove 43 of the contact 41.

[0117] Thus, in the rest position of the blade 33 and in the absence of rotation of the interface part 51, a contact 41 can be freely inserted, i.e. without effort, between the blades 32 and 33 ([Fig.7A]). Conversely, if the interface part has undergone rotation and is no longer in its open position, the locking portion 53 is in mechanical interference with the contact 41 during its insertion, preventing non-compliant assembly.

[0118] If the contact 41 is not inserted over a sufficient stroke into the cavity 31 of the body 30, the locking portion 53 of the part 50 abuts on the cylindrical part of the contact 41 ([Fig.7B]). Thus, in this configuration, the locking of the contact 41 in the cavity 31 is impossible as is its clamping by the blade 33.

[0119] Conversely, if the contact 41 is correctly inserted into the cavity 31 of the body 30, the locking portion 53 of the part 50 is inserted into the peripheral groove 43 of the contact 41 and thus locks it in the cavity 31 (figures 7C, 8). In other words, the contact is blocked in translation along the X axis. The clamping of the contact 41 between the fixed blade 32 and the blade 33 to be deformed can then be carried out.

[0120] The interface part 51 may comprise an interface imprint 54 with the tool, preferably a hollow hexagonal imprint. An operator can thus use a usual, external tool such as a hexagonal wrench.

[0121] According to an advantageous embodiment, the body of the module 30 comprises at least one visual indicator 35, 36 and the interface part 51 also comprises at least one visual indicator 55. These visual indicators 35, 36, 55, in particular each in the form of an area of ​​visible color, are arranged on the upper face of the body so as to be visible to an operator to indicate to him the position of the correct tightening of the contact 41 of the electrical termination. Thus, in the example illustrated, an indicator 55 of the interface part 51, in the form of a colored arrow, is positioned opposite an indicator 35 of the body, of a first color, for example green when tightening is carried out and opposite an indicator 36, of a second color, in a position of complete loosening of the contact, which corresponds to the rest position of the blade 33.

[0122] In an advantageous variant, the force transmission part 50 can also comprise a return portion 56 which is attached to the free end of the blade 33. In the example illustrated, this return portion 56 covers in some way this free end of the blade 33. Thus, when the contact 41 is unlocked, this return portion 56 exerts traction on the free end of the blade 33 and returns it from its deformed position ([Fig.9A]) to its rest position ([Fig.9B]).

[0123] [Fig. 10] shows an example of an electrical connection module according to a second embodiment of the invention, generally designated by the reference 3', also intended to form part of a terminal block of a connection assembly.

[0124] This electrical connection module 3' comprises an electrically insulating body 30 intended to house, clamp, lock and connect a termination 4 of an electrical cable 2, as already described.

[0125] Here the module 3' comprises a single blade 33' whose cross section is substantially U-shaped, which is housed in the cavity 31 of the module. One of the branches 330 of the U is rigid and fixed, the other of the branches 331 being able to be deformed to move closer to the fixed branch 330.

[0126] The clamping mechanism 5' here consists of a single lever mounted to pivot around the fixed branch 330 while being accessible from outside the body 30.

[0127] Thus, once the contact 41 is inserted freely, without effort, between the two branches 330, 331 spaced apart from each other and in the rest position ([Fig. 10]), the pivoting of the lever 5' downwards in the illustrated example allows a housing with blocking of the free end 332 of the branch 331 in a suitable housing 50' of the lever, which causes the branch 331 to be brought closer by deformation towards the branch 330 ([Fig.l 1]). Thus, in the deformed position of the branch 331, the contact 41 is tightened.

[0128] As shown in [Fig.l 1], the shape and dimensions of the lever 5' are advantageously chosen to best fit the exterior of the body 30 of the module, without protruding outwards.

[0129] As shown in detail in figures 12A to 12C, a part of the module body 30 and an electrical cable termination 4 can be produced so as to block the latter from rotating once its contact is inserted into a cavity 31.

[0130] Thus, as shown, the body 30 comprises a tubular extension 37 with an opening 38 facing the cavity 31, which is internally provided with a plurality of longitudinal straight grooves 39, preferably distributed regularly angularly, and which are each adapted to receive a straight groove 42 formed around the sleeve 40 of the electrical cable termination 4.

[0131] The grooves 42 allow the torsional forces of the cable 2 to be taken up on the body of the module 3 and also prevent the rotation of the contact 41 by sliding, once inserted and tightened in the connection module 3.

[0132] The grooves 42 are preferably slightly angularly spaced from each other. of the others, which allows the contact 41 to be inserted into the body 30 of the module, without having to index it in rotation beforehand.

[0133] A sealed connection variant can be envisaged between the termination contact(s) 41 and the module body(ies) 30.

[0134] As shown in [Fig. 13], this variant may for example consist of implanting at least one O-ring 44 on the free end of the sleeve 40, at the interface with the body 30, and at least one annular cable gland 45 mounted in the other end of the sleeve 30 at the interface with the cable 2.

[0135] It is also possible to provide an O-ring 300 at the interface between two bodies 30 fixed together.

[0136] In addition, an O-ring 500 can be provided arranged around the interface part 51, in its housing ([Fig. 14]).

[0137] The connection modules according to the invention allow different connection configurations between electrical harnesses with electrical cable termination 4.

[0138] As described and illustrated previously, a single module 3 may comprise two bodies 30, preferably identical or symmetrical, aligned opposite each other and fixed to each other. This allows an electrical connection with a single input and output.

[0139] It is also possible to envisage a 3” connection module with two bodies 30 arranged side by side, electrically connecting two cable terminations arriving on the same side of the module ([Fig. 15]). As can be seen in this [Fig. 15], a single first blade 32 and a second blade 33 are housed in the cavities 31. The single blade 33 comprises two parts which are deformable independently of each other with a cam clamping mechanism 51 and electrically connected to each other, so as to create an electrical shunt between the two electrical cable terminations 4 when they are inserted individually into the cavities. The two bodies 30 can be fixed to each other or made entirely from a single piece.

[0140] This variant with side-by-side module bodies can for example be implemented on the same face of a panel.

[0141] Other multi-output configurations are possible.

[0142] Figures 16 to 18 illustrate a variant with one electrical input E and three electrical outputs S with an electrical shunt made inside the bodies 30 of a 3” connection module according to the first mode.

[0143] More precisely, as shown in figures 17 and 18, the module 3'” comprises two bodies 30 aligned and fixed together, each of the bodies 30 internally comprising two cavities 31 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the module.

[0144] Each contact 41 is clamped by means of a clamping mechanism 5 independent of the others.

[0145] The first blade 32 is common to the cavities 31 of the two bodies 30.

[0146] In the variant of [Fig. 17], two second blades 33 independent of each other are housed in the cavities 31 and electrically connected to each other, so as to create an electrical shunt between the four electrical cable terminations 4 when they are inserted individually into the cavities.

[0147] To hold the blades 32, 33 inside the body 30, a holding spacer 301 can be provided.

[0148] An alternative for producing the electrical shunt is shown in [Fig.18]: the shunt is produced solely by the first blade 32, the deformable blades 33 being electrically insulated from each other.

[0149] Another variant with two inputs E and two outputs S, illustrated in [Fig. 19], may consist of two aligned and fixed bodies 30 each comprising two cavities 31, but without shunting the two electrical lines. In other words, the two electrical lines pass through the connection module electrically independently of each other. In this variant, the module comprises two first fixed blades 32 independent and electrically insulated from each other, and at least one second deformable blade 33 per electrical line, insulated between each electrical line.

[0150] An alternative embodiment of the second blade 33 is shown in [Fig.20]: it is possible to provide for the production of a single blade 33 in the form of a single piece which can be housed in two cavities 31 facing one another, with parts 333 elastically deformable independently of one another, for example by creating one or more openings of material 334 between them.

[0151] Another possible configuration with connection modules according to the invention is a connection of several terminations 4 of electrical cable 2 to a busbar or connection bar.

[0152] Such a configuration is illustrated in [Fig.21] with three modules 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, preferably identical, arranged parallel to each other. In this illustrated configuration, each body 30 of the modules comprises a single cavity 31 in which a contact 41 of a termination 4 of an electric cable 2 is inserted and clamped.

[0153] Each of the first blades 32 comprises an extension portion 322 which extends outside the body 30.

[0154] Each body 30 comprises an extension 302 of straight parallelepiped shape, which supports a portion 322 of a blade 32.

[0155] The parallel electrical connection between the different blades 32 and therefore between the electrical terminations 4 is made by a common busbar 6 which is fixed by means of a screw / nut 60 in the extension portion 322 of each blade 32. It is of course possible to envisage, instead of the screws / nuts 60, fixing by welding to the busbar.

[0156] To ensure anti-unlocking of the contact 41 in a module body 30, which could occur for example in the event of vibrations, shocks, or the like, a module 3 can be provided with a locking / unlocking device 7 for the clamping mechanism 5.

[0157] This device 7 is configured to be active when the clamping cam 50 is in its rotational position corresponding to the deformed position of the second blade 33.

[0158] Several advantageous construction variants can be envisaged.

[0159] Figures 22A and 22B show a first variant of such a device 7 which comprises:

[0160] - a hole 70 made in the interface part 51,

[0161] - a rigid pin 71 mounted on a spring 72, preferably a helical spring of compression. An adjustment screw 73 is used to hold the spring in the body and adjust its tension.

[0162] This pin 71 with the spring 72 are housed inside the body 30 so that, in the deformed position of the second blade 33, the pin 71 is inserted into the hole 70 with the spring exerting a return force on the pin ([Fig.22B]). This results in locking the clamping mechanism 5. Its unlocking is achieved by a rotational torque applied to the interface part 51, which is adapted to overcome the return force of the spring 72 and therefore remove the pin 71 from the hole 70 ([Fig.22A]).

[0163] Figures 23A and 23B show a second variant of a device 7 which comprises:

[0164] - a groove 73 made in the interface part 51,

[0165] - a rigid blade 74 on a spring 75, preferably a helical spring of com pressure.

[0166] The rigid blade 74 is partially housed and the spring 75 is housed inside the body 30 such that, in the deformed position of the second blade 33, the free end of the blade 74 is inserted into the groove 73 with the spring exerting a return force on the blade ([Fig.23B]). This locks the clamping mechanism 5. Its unlocking is achieved by pushing on a portion of the blade 74 projecting from the body, which is adapted to overcome the return force of the spring 75 and therefore remove the blade 74 from the groove 73 ([Fig.23A]).

[0167] Figures 24A and 24B show a third variant of a device 7 which comprises:

[0168] - at least one pin 76 made on the periphery of the interface part 51,

[0169] - a spring 760, preferably a helical compression spring,

[0170] housed inside the cam 52.

[0171] In the deformed position of the second blade 33, the spring 760 pushes the interface part 51 outwards from the body 30 upwards, the pin 76 of which is housed in a vertical groove arranged in the body. When the pin 76 is housed in the vertical groove of the body, the rotation of the interface part 51 and the cam 52 is blocked.

[0172] To loosen the contact, an operator presses vertically downwards with a tool, in the imprint 54 of the interface part 51. The latter sinks into the body and thus compresses the spring 760. At the same time, the pin 76 of the interface part leaves its housing and is housed in a horizontal circular groove arranged in the body. The rotational movement of the interface part 51 then becomes possible, causing the rotation of the cam 52, and therefore the return to the rest position of the second blade 33 and thus the loosening of the contact.

[0173] This unlocks the clamping mechanism 5 ([Fig.24A]).

[0174] Figures 25A and 25B show a fourth variant of a device 7 which comprises:

[0175] - a slot 77 made on an external face of the body, at the periphery of the part interface,

[0176] - a flexible tab 78, integral or made integrally with the interface part of such that, in the deformed position of the second blade 33, the free end of the tab 78 is inserted into the slot 77 ([Fig.25B]). This locks the clamping mechanism 5. Its unlocking is achieved by releasing the free end of the tab 78, adapted to overcome the return force of the flexible tab ([Fig.25A]). Another slot 79 can be provided to accommodate this free end in the loosened position of the contact 41 corresponding to the rest position of the blade 33.

[0177] Other variations and improvements may be provided without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0178] Modules of different dimensions can be provided with a different number of cavities to accommodate electrical cable terminations 4 of different sizes.

[0179] It is also possible to provide for fixing and locking of a connection module in a support rail.

[0180] As is clear from the description, to achieve the tightening of an electrical termination contact, a connection module can be provided with a single blade of which at least one part is elastically deformable, or with a rigid blade and a deformable blade.

[0181] If in the illustrated examples, the cam clamping mechanism is described in relation to the first mode with a rigid blade and an elastically deformable blade while the pivoting lever clamping mechanism is described in relation to a single blade with a U-shaped section, it is also possible to envisage a pivoting lever for the deformation of the blade clamping the contact with a rigid blade and a clamping cam to bring the branches of the single U-shaped blade closer together.

[0182] In the illustrated examples, the deformable blade 33 is electrically conductive. It is also possible to envisage an electrically insulating blade.

[0183] The expression “comprising a” must be understood as being synonymous with “comprising at least one”, unless otherwise specified.

Claims

Claims

1. Electrical connection module (3, 3', 3”; 3.1, 3.2, 3.3), intended to constitute a part of a terminal block of a connection assembly, of longitudinal axis (X) comprising: - at least one body (30) made of electrically insulating material comprising at least one cavity (31) extending along the axis X and adapted to house an electrical cable termination (4), comprising a contact (41), preferably cylindrical, intended to be connected, preferably crimped onto an electrical cable (2);- at least one blade (32, 33), comprising at least a part of a blade, which is electrically conductive and housed fixedly or with play, at least partly in the cavity, and at least a part of a blade, which is elastically deformable between a rest position in which it defines a space adapted to allow the insertion, along the X axis, of the contact of the electrical cable termination, and a deformed position in which it clamps, transversely to the X axis, the contact of the electrical cable termination so as to establish electrical continuity between the contact and the blade(s);- at least one clamping mechanism (5), intended to be actuated by rotation from the outside, comprising a means for transforming a rotation into a translation transversely to the X axis, which exerts a force (F) on the deformable blade part to bring it from its rest position into its deformed position for clamping the contact of the electrical cable termination.;

2. Electrical connection module according to claim 1, the blade(s) being shaped to constitute at least two, preferably three, direct support zones with the contact of the electrical termination in the deformed position.

3. Electrical connection module according to claim 2, the three support zones being distributed angularly at the periphery of the contact.

4. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a single blade with a cross-section to the X axis, substantially U-shaped.

5. Electrical connection module according to claim 4, the clamping mechanism (5) comprising a lever pivotally mounted in the body and accessible from the outside so as to deform at least one of the two branches of the U and thus bring it from its rest position to its deformed position.

6. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 1 to 3, comprising at least one first blade (32), electrically conductive, housed in the cavity and rigid, and at least one second blade (33), electrically conductive, housed in the cavity and comprising at least one part elastically deformable between the rest position and the deformed position.

7. Electrical connection module according to claim 6, the clamping mechanism (5) comprising: - a force transmission part (50), housed in the body, - an interface part (51) with a tool, mounted freely in rotation in a housing (34) of the body and adapted to be rotated by the tool, - a clamping cam (52), integral or made integrally with the interface part, the rotation of the clamping cam causing the translation of the force transmission part, transversely to the X axis, which exerts a force (F) on the second blade to bring it from its rest position into its deformed position for clamping the contact of the electrical cable termination.

8. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 6 or 7, the force transmission part comprising a locking portion (53) adapted to be inserted, during the translation of said part, into a peripheral groove of the contact of the electrical termination and thus lock the latter in the body, preferably before or simultaneously with the tightening of the contact.

9. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 6 to 8, the clamping cam being mounted in rotation between two branches (320, 321) of the first blade.

10. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 8 or 9, the force transmission part further comprising a return portion for returning the second blade to its rest position, during loosening after unlocking the contact.

11. The electrical connection module according to one of claims 6 to 10, comprising a locking / unlocking device (7) of the clamping mechanism, when the clamping cam is in its rotation position corresponding to the deformed position of the second blade.

12. Electrical connection module according to claim 11, the locking device comprising: - a hole made in the interface part, - a rigid pin mounted on a spring, preferably a helical compression spring, the pin with the spring being housed inside the body of the module such that, in the deformed position of the second blade, the pin is inserted into the hole with the spring exerting a return force on the pin and thereby locking the clamping mechanism, its unlocking being achieved by a rotational torque applied to the interface part, which is adapted to overcome the return force of the spring.

13. Electrical connection module according to claim 11, the locking device comprising: - a groove made in the interface part, - a rigid blade on a spring, preferably a helical compression spring, the rigid blade being partially housed and the spring being housed inside the body of the module such that, in the deformed position of the second blade, the free end of the blade is inserted into the groove with the spring exerting a return force on the blade and thereby locking the clamping mechanism, its unlocking being achieved by pushing on a portion of the blade projecting from the body, which is adapted to overcome the return force of the spring.

14. Electrical connection module according to one of the preceding claims, the body comprising an opening (38) facing the cavity, provided internally with a plurality of longitudinal straight grooves (39), preferably distributed regularly angularly, adapted each to receive a straight groove (42) formed around the sleeve of the electrical cable termination.

15. Electrical connection module according to one of the preceding claims, the blade comprising a portion (322) extending outside the body and adapted to be electrically connected by welding or screwing to a busbar (6).

16. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 6 to 14, comprising: - two bodies aligned or side by side and fixed together or forming a single piece, - a single first blade common to the cavities of the two bodies, - at least two second blades independent of each other, each for tightening a contact, - at least two tightening mechanisms independent of each other.

17. Electrical connection module according to one of claims 6 to 14, comprising: - two bodies aligned or side by side and fixed together or forming a single piece, - a single first blade common to the cavities of the two bodies, - a single second blade, comprising several independent deformable parts each for tightening a contact, - at least two tightening mechanisms independent of each other.

18. Terminal block connection assembly, comprising a plurality of electrical connection modules (3.1, 3.2, 3.3) according to one of the preceding claims, of identical or different sizes with cavities of identical or different sizes to house electrical terminations of identical or different sizes.

19. Structure, in particular of an aircraft, comprising at least one electrical connection module according to one of claims 1 to 17 and / or at least one terminal block connection assembly according to claim 18, preferably fixed on a support rail, itself intended to be fixed to the structure.

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