Contacting device, system and use of a contacting device
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2026/057310
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-28
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
Smart Images
Figure EP2026057310_01102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] 202503212
[0002] 1
[0003] Description
[0004] Contacting device, system and use of a contacting device
[0005] The invention relates to a contacting device, a system with a contacting device and a use of the contacting device.
[0006] Electrical connections between individual electrical devices, units, or components of a technical system are most often made via plug connectors, even in the manufacturing and process industries. A plug connector typically consists of two parts: a socket and a plug. In industrial environments, connectors or terminal blocks are also very frequently used to connect and disconnect electrical wires. Terminal blocks are often used in control cabinets and distribution boards to enable organized and easily tided wiring.
[0007] When a large number of identically designed electrical devices, units, or components of a technical system are arranged in a row, a large number of interconnected contact connections, connection elements, or connection pins can be formed, each of which must be individually electrically contacted in order to, for example, record measured values such as the electrical voltage of the individual electrical devices, units, or components.Electrical devices, units or components of a technical system with a large number of connected contacts can be, for example, batteries, solar modules, sensor assemblies, automation equipment, control cabinets or stacks of electrochemical cells such as an electrolysis cell stack for hydrogen production, also called an "electrolysis stack", which usually comprises a large number of electrochemical cells in a horizontal or vertical stacked arrangement, with each cell having contact terminals for electrical contacting.
[0008] Especially in stacks of electrochemical cells, the cells differ both in terms of the materials used and their geometry. Within a stack, the spacing between cells can therefore vary due to manufacturing tolerances. Furthermore, the stack is subject to movement during operation, meaning it expands or contracts. For the electrical contacting of the cells, this means that the potential taps must be designed to be as variable as possible.
[0009] 2
[0010] Accordingly, when connecting a large number of interconnected contact terminals, connection elements, or connection pins, it can happen that significant positional tolerances or different pitch dimensions of the contact connections need to be compensated for. For example, in the case of electrolysis stacks, the so-called contact blades (metal ribs for electrical contact) of the individual electrochemical cells can have different distances from each other due to manufacturing inaccuracies in the cells. These differences are compensated for, among other things, by spacers between the cells. In the case of larger tolerance deviations, the manufacturing inaccuracies add up, so that with several parallel contact blades, dimensional deviations can occur that cannot be compensated for by a single connector or by a connector assembly. In such a case, a complete connection is not possible.In the case of different contact blade pitches, either connectors specific to each pitch must be developed or individual spacers must be placed between the connectors, requiring the production of a separate connector system for each pitch. This is associated with considerable time and expense and is therefore uneconomical. For contact blade tolerance deviations in the range of 0.1–1 mm, connectors with flexible contacts (e.g., floating connectors) can be used. However, such systems are no longer suitable for tolerance deviations in the range of several millimeters.
[0011] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing an improved device for electrical contacting which compensates for and easily overcomes the differences in distance between a plurality of arranged contact terminals.
[0012] This problem is solved by a device having the features of claim 1. Furthermore, the problem is solved by a system having the features of claim 12 and by using the device according to claim 14. Advantageous embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.
[0013] The basic idea of the invention is to create a flexible mechanical connection for a variety of common components or modules for the electrical contacting of unequally spaced contact terminals, connection elements, or connection pins. The invention therefore relates to a contacting device comprising at least two spaced-apart contacting modules, which are coupled to each other via at least one connecting element that is at least partially deformable, wherein the connecting element-202503212
[0014] 3
[0015] The module sections have coupling sections for arrangement on the contacting modules and bridging the distance between adjacent contacting modules for flexible connection of the module sections.
[0016] The advantage of the contacting device according to the invention is that a multitude of contact terminals arranged in a row and spaced at different intervals can be precisely, mechanically stable, and simultaneously electrically contacted using the device. By connecting a multitude of contacting modules, a device with a large overall length can be realized, suitable for contacting a multitude of terminals of a higher-level unit without requiring high precision in the manufacturing or assembly of the unit. The flexible coupling of the individual contacting modules is easy to handle and can be readily adapted to specific requirements. Furthermore, the contacting device according to the invention can replace several grid-specific individual connectors, thus reducing the number of individual parts.Depending on the design of the contact modules, it is also advantageously suitable for high-current applications.
[0017] The connecting element is designed to be at least partially deformable. The term "deformable" here encompasses flexible or elastic materials or designs. The deformation of the connecting element is achieved either through its geometry, its material, or a combination of both. With regard to the material, the term generally describes a material's ability to deform under the influence of forces, without necessarily specifying whether the material returns to its original shape (elastic) or is simply easily bent without breaking (flexible).
[0018] In advantageous embodiments, the module sections of the connecting element are arranged on the contacting modules in a form-fit or force-fit manner. A form-fit arrangement means that the section of the connecting element in the area of the contacting module and the contacting module itself are connected to each other by the design of their geometric shape. Form fit is achieved through the precise fitting and interlocking of geometric profiles such as teeth, grooves, or splines on the components to be joined. The shapes interlock and prevent relative movement, resulting in a secure and backlash-free connection. A force-fit arrangement means that the section of the connecting element in the area of the contacting module and the contacting module itself are held together by forces such as friction.This can be achieved, for example, by pressing the parts to be joined together, creating high friction that bonds the parts together. 202503212.
[0019] 4
[0020] Examples of friction-fit connections include screws, clamps, springs, and press fits. Friction-fit connections offer high load-bearing capacity and are usually easy to assemble and disassemble. They can be used in various materials and shapes, which expands their application possibilities. In many cases, friction-fit connections are more cost-effective than form-fit connections because they require less complex manufacturing techniques.
[0021] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the contacting device, the module sections of the connecting element are detachably arranged on the contacting modules in addition to the positive or non-positive connection. The detachability of the connection allows for significantly easier assembly or disassembly of the connecting element within the module area. Positive-locking detachable connections offer a high degree of security against unintentional loosening, as the connection is secured by the shape of the parts. Non-positive detachable connections distribute the applied forces evenly across the connection, thus reducing the stress on the individual components. Some non-positive connections, such as screw connections, can dampen vibrations and shocks, which extends the service life of the connected parts.
[0022] In a further advantageous embodiment, the contacting device is characterized in that the connecting element of the contacting modules is manufactured in one piece, and the module sections are integrally formed with the coupling sections. A one-piece connecting element means that the connecting element consists of a single piece of material without being assembled from multiple parts. When the module sections are integrally formed with the coupling sections, this means that the module sections and the coupling sections are manufactured as a single unit, without separate connections or transitions. A one-piece connecting element has no weak points that could arise from connections. This results in higher mechanical strength and stability. An example of this is a strap.An integrated design minimizes the risk of failures at connection points, thus increasing the reliability of the connector and, consequently, the entire contacting device. In this case, the tape material would consist of a rigid and a flexible component. A particularly advantageous design is that the module sections of the connector are made of a high-stiffness material, while the coupling sections are made of a flexible, low-stiffness material. This design allows the contacting device to be adapted particularly well to a wide variety of applications. 202503212.
[0023] 5
[0024] In another advantageous embodiment of the contacting device, the coupling sections of the connecting element essentially have a U-shaped geometry with two long leg sections and a short leg section connecting them. The advantage of this geometry of the coupling section lies in the fact that the flexibility of the section in this embodiment is achieved primarily through its shape (height and length of the individual leg sections). This allows the connecting element to be made of a material with high stiffness, such as metal (optionally encased in insulating material). The shape can be achieved by bending, punching, or laser cutting, depending on the specific requirements and the material thickness. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the connecting element with the U-shaped geometry is designed as a spring.The U-shape allows for elastic deformation, where the longer leg sections can be compressed or spread apart, creating a spring effect. The spring can be used particularly effectively due to its good elasticity and restoring force.
[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment of the contacting device, the contacting modules have at least one contact mechanism on their underside for contacting terminal contacts of a higher-level unit. Integrating a separate contact mechanism into the contacting modules improves the electrical contact. The contact mechanism should be designed such that it has at least one contact surface opposite one of the terminal contacts, which at least partially touches the terminal contact of the higher-level unit for electrical contact.In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the contact mechanism is designed such that a terminal contact of the higher-level unit is at least partially enclosed by two opposing contact surfaces. These contact surfaces are designed as springs or connected to springs to increase and permanently maintain the pressure of the contact surfaces on the terminal contact. This embodiment allows for particularly reliable contacting of a terminal contact. The contact surfaces can, for example, be in the form of metal strips or wire springs. The terminal contact to be enclosed is located between the two contact surfaces. When the contact surfaces are pressed together by the external force of the springs, the terminal contact is held between them.The springs or spring-like structures ensure that constant pressure is exerted on the contact to guarantee a secure, stable, and durable connection. Depending on the application, various materials, shapes, and sizes of the contact surfaces of the contact mechanism can be used. 202503212.
[0026] 6
[0027] In a further advantageous embodiment of the contacting device, the contacting modules are designed to be positively and detachably coupled. Positive-locking connections are easy to assemble and disassemble, simplifying maintenance and module replacement. The elimination of additional fastening elements makes them easy to handle and replace. The design of the contacting modules as connectors or terminal blocks is particularly advantageous. Connectors are versatile and can be easily adapted to various requirements. Terminal blocks offer a modular design that allows for easy expansion and adaptation. In particular, both types of modules can be used in parallel in the contacting device according to the invention.
[0028] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a contact module of the contacting device further comprises at least one electrical fuse and at least one wiring unit for connecting at least one signal transmission line. In this embodiment, the signal path for the electrical signal runs from the contact mechanism of the module via the fuse to at least one of the wiring units. If the contact module is designed, for example, as a terminal block, the terminal block with integrated fuse and wiring unit represents an attractive solution for electrical connections, since various functions are combined in a single component. The integration of the fuse saves space and prevents excessively high currents from destroying the terminal block and subsequent monitoring units, thus minimizing further hazards such as the risk of fire.The wiring unit simplifies the wiring process. Separate terminals for the fuse and wiring are not required, saving time and effort. If the fuse is integrated and replaceable, the entire terminal block does not need to be replaced during maintenance. Even if the fuse is not integrated and replaceable, there is still an advantage if the contact device comprises multiple terminal blocks. In this case, a single terminal block can be replaced.
[0029] The previously formulated problem is further solved by a system with at least one contacting device according to the invention and with at least one profile rail, wherein the system is characterized in that the contacting modules are designed as clamping devices, in particular as terminal blocks, which can be positively and detachably coupled to the at least one profile rail. In this way, reliable and stable contacting of a large number of contact connections can be achieved in a simple manner.
[0030] 7
[0031] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the profile rail has recesses on its underside, which are configured such that, to establish an electrical contact, a contact mechanism mounted on the underside of the clamping device contacts at least a portion of a contact surface of a terminal contact of a higher-level unit through the recess in the profile rail. The innovative use of prefabricated parts, such as the profile rail adapted to the array of terminals of a higher-level unit, in conjunction with the terminal blocks of the contacting device according to the invention, each of which contains a contact mechanism also adapted to the array of terminal elements or contact connections, leads to a significantly improved contacting of the multitude of arrayed terminal elements or contact connections.The modular design allows for quick and reliable installation, minimizing the likelihood of installation errors and resulting in a cost-effective solution that significantly reduces the complexity of connections and the associated effort. The invention thus enables the use of standard components that are easily adapted to the arranged contact connections. It is advantageously suited for both the initial installation of individual electrical devices, electrical units, or components of a technical system, as well as for maintenance work.
[0032] The previously formulated problem is also solved by using a contacting device in the embodiments described above for the electrical contacting of a plurality of arranged terminal contacts of a stack of electrochemical cells, in particular an electrolysis cell stack or a fuel cell stack, wherein each cell has at least one laterally projecting terminal contact for current conduction. The use of all embodiments of the invention for electrolysis stacks for hydrogen production is particularly noteworthy. All embodiments of the invention exhibit their advantageous effects in these applications. The contacting device according to the invention allows the numerous electrical connections to each individual cell to be established simply and efficiently, for example, to check the cell voltage. The contacting of the electrochemical cells must be reliable and permanent.Due to the high currents that can flow in the event of a fault, every connection must be protected. Measuring leads must not be mixed up. All these requirements are met by the arrangement according to the invention. The large number of measuring points significantly reduces the considerable time and cost involved in wiring the stacks. Thanks to the pre-assembled individual components, the arrangement according to the invention is easy to install. 202503212.
[0033] 8
[0034] The properties, features, and advantages of this invention described above, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become clearer and more readily understandable in connection with the following description of exemplary embodiments, which are explained in more detail in conjunction with the drawings. The drawings show:
[0035] FIG 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the contacting device according to the invention.
[0036] FIG 2 shows a top view of the embodiment of the contacting device according to the invention from FIG. 1.
[0037] FIG 3 shows a cross-section of an embodiment of the connecting element according to the invention.
[0038] FIG 4 shows a perspective view of two embodiments of the contacting devices according to the invention.
[0039] FIG 5 shows a front view of an embodiment of the contacting device according to the invention with contact mechanism.
[0040] FIG 6 shows a cross-section through a system with an embodiment of the contacting device according to the invention and a modified profile rail and a perspective view of the modified profile rail.
[0041] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a contacting device 1 according to the invention, which in this embodiment is used for the electrical contacting of approximately equally spaced contact ribs or contact blades 50 of a higher-level unit 100. The higher-level unit can, for example, be stacked electrochemical cells of an electrolyzer (especially for hydrogen production) or a fuel cell stack.
[0042] In this variant, the device 1 comprises a plurality of spaced-apart contact modules 10. Figure 1 shows a number of n = 20 contact modules. The contact module 10 is designed differently depending on the application. Connector modules or terminal blocks with terminal blocks prove advantageous. A connector is generally defined as a plug-in device used to connect electrical conductors, enabling the easy exchange of electrical or electronic components.
[0043] 9
[0044] elements enabled. In industrial environments, connector modules are frequently used, as shown in detail in Fig. 5. A terminal block is generally an insulating part that carries one or more mutually insulated clamping arrangements and is designed for secure mounting on a mounting surface. A profile rail is typically used as the mounting surface. Examples of such terminal blocks would be the 8WH series terminals with push-in connection from Siemens. In principle, any electrical connection or coupling device is suitable as a contact module, provided it has a housing or three-dimensional module to which at least one partially deformable connecting element can be coupled.
[0045] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the connecting element 8 is designed as a flexible band. The band thickness is selected such that a stable mechanical connection of the contact modules 10 is ensured. In this embodiment, the contacting device 1 has a connecting band on each of its two opposite sides along longitudinal axis L, adjacent to the contact terminals 50 to be contacted, which couples the individual contact modules 10. The band is thus arranged laterally on each of the contact modules 10. According to the invention, the band has various sections, which can be designed differently. Basically, two areas or sections of the connecting element 8 can be distinguished: the module sections 8A, which are arranged on the contact modules 10, and the coupling sections 8B for the flexible connection of the module sections 8A of the contact modules 10.In this configuration, the tape in module section 8A consists of a rigid, solid material, such as a plastic-coated metal strip, and has a straight path. In module section 8A, the tape is attached to the contact module. The tape can be glued, screwed, or riveted to the contact module. Clamps, clips, or similar detachable fasteners can be used advantageously if a non-permanent attachment is desired. In this configuration, the coupling sections 8B essentially have a U-shaped geometry with two long leg sections and a short leg section connecting them. In this configuration, the long leg sections are also made of a rigid, solid material, while the short leg sections 8C are made of a flexible material such as rubber. [Possibly...]For certain applications, elastic materials can also be used for the short leg section 8C. Alternatively, the band can be manufactured in one piece from a deformable plastic and held in module section 8A by a clamping device or clamping element. If the contacting device is used in hydrogen electrolysis, the band material should be electrically insulating to prevent short circuits. 202503212.
[0046] 10
[0047] Figure 2 shows a top view of the embodiment of the contacting device according to the invention from Fig. 1. The equally spaced contact ribs 50 of the higher-level unit 100 are clearly visible. In reality, however, the distances 50d between the contact ribs 50 will never be exactly the same due to manufacturing tolerances. These manufacturing tolerances are no longer relevant for the contacting device according to the invention, as they can be easily compensated for by the flexible connecting element 8.
[0048] Figure 3 shows a possible cross-sectional embodiment of the connecting element 8 according to the invention. Here, the connecting element 8 is designed as a strip and exhibits at least partially flexible properties. In this embodiment, the strip essentially has a U-shaped geometry with two long leg sections and a short leg section connecting the two long leg sections, and can be divided into different sections. The strip thickness is selected to ensure a stable mechanical connection between the contact modules. In the simplest case, the connecting element is a single piece and completely flexible or elastic. The elastic material can be an elastomer, which returns to its original shape after stretching or deformation. Examples include natural rubber, silicone, and polyurethane.The flexible area of the connecting element 8 can be limited to the coupling section 8B between the contacting modules, or even only to individual sections thereof (case 8C). Flexibility can be achieved through the shape and / or material of the connecting element. Various designs can be implemented for area 8B or 8C of the connecting element: the use of elastic materials that operate under either compression or shear; a metallic design that gains its flexibility through the movement of loosely fitted parts that roll or slide against each other, or through the bending of non-moving metallic parts; the use of springs; a metallic design in which the connecting element is shaped to act like a spring; or the use of thin metal membranes that bend under load.In principle, any shape and / or material is conceivable for the flexible connecting element 8 between each pair of contact modules 10. However, applications involving high currents must be considered, as appropriate insulating sheathing of metallic parts may then be necessary.
[0049] Figure 4 shows, in addition to the embodiment of the contacting device 1 from Fig. 1, a perspective view of a further embodiment 2 of the contacting device according to the invention. In this embodiment 2, the contacting device has two connecting strips of the individual contacting modules on the upward-facing side along longitudinal axis L. Each of the 202503212
[0050] 11
[0051] Both bands are arranged on the top side of the modules, adjacent to and parallel with the edge of the modules' side surfaces of the contacting device 1. This arrangement of the bands has the advantage of being easier to access and install. In the case of clamping closures in the module sections, the bands can be attached particularly easily.
[0052] Figure 5 shows a side view of a contact module 10 of the contacting device 1. The module consists of a housing that protects the internal components and is designed to allow easy mounting on a contact terminal. The housing can be made of plastic or metal, depending on the requirements for environmental resistance and mechanical strength. An electrical contact mechanism 11 is located in the lower part of the housing, which establishes the connection to a contact terminal (here, contact rib 50). In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the contact mechanism 11 consists of a so-called tulip contact. A tulip contact, also called a round contact, is a special type of electrical contact commonly used in switchgear.It serves to create a flexible and easily detachable connection between a movable part (here, the contacting device) and a fixed part (here, the contact ribs of the higher-level unit). The tulip contact has a tulip-shaped structure consisting of several spring-loaded contact lamellae. These lamellae ensure uniform contact pressure on the contact points. The contact mechanism 11 should, in principle, be equipped with at least one contact surface that, for electrical contact with the higher-level unit, at least partially touches the contact terminal. In this embodiment, integrated power lines (not shown) lead from the contact mechanism 11 within the housing of the contacting module 10 to at least one wiring unit 12 for connecting at least one signal transmission line.Particularly for applications involving high electrical currents of several kA, the insertion of a fuse 13 into the signal path is advisable. This can be one or more electrical fuses for overcurrent protection. In some versions, the contact module 10 can be designed so that the fuse 13 is replaceable. Advantageously, the wiring unit 12 has an insertion aid for connecting a single- or multi-pole signal transmission line. Wiring units with an external so-called "push-in connection" are frequently used. Wires can be inserted into the wiring unit without tools. The push-in connections include a spring mechanism. The wire is inserted into the connection, thereby actuating the push-in mechanism.Once the wire is inserted, the mechanism locks and the spring force presses the connector firmly against the wire to create a secure and permanent electrical connection. 202503212.
[0053] 12
[0054] Figure 6 shows a cross-section through a system 40 with an embodiment of the contacting device according to the invention and a modified profile rail 15. The system 40 comprises at least one contacting device 1 as shown in Figure 1 and at least one profile rail 15, which can be mounted on a higher-level unit 100 (for example, a stack of electrochemical cells). In this embodiment, the contacting modules 10 of the contacting device 1 are designed as a clamping device, in particular as terminal blocks, and can be positively and detachably coupled to the at least one profile rail 15.
[0055] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, a rectangular flat connector with a semicircular shape on its short upper side (often with dimensions of 6.3 mm wide and 0.8 mm thick or 4.8 mm wide and 0.8 mm thick) is provided as the electrical connection element 51 or contact connection on the superior unit 100 instead of long contact ribs. When individual electrochemical cells, each with a flat connector on its side, are stacked on top of each other, one or more rows of contact connections are created in this way. In these cases, the flat connectors are usually connected directly or via adapters to a so-called bipolar plate of a cell. In this application, the profile rail of the system according to the invention can be mounted on the cell stack in such a way that the connection elements 51 protrude through the recesses in the profile rail.
[0056] The profile rail 15 can be a standard mounting rail for the mechanical fastening of electrical devices according to DIN standards, for example, DIN EN 60715, with a top hat profile, II, C, or G profile. Commonly used top hat rails, according to the standard, have a width of 35 mm (bottom edge plus "hat brim") and a height of 7.5 or 15 mm with a material thickness (sheet thickness) of at least 1 mm. Depending on the application, other rail parameters are possible. The rail material should be electrically insulating to prevent short circuits. Profile rails often have elongated holes or recesses or slots arranged at regular intervals along the central longitudinal axis of the rail. In the figure shown...In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the recesses 20 are not used, or not only used, for fastening purposes, but also as openings through which connecting elements 51 or pins or bolts, which are connected to a higher-level unit, can protrude. Figure 6 below shows a perspective view of a DIN rail 15, which has recesses 20 at regular intervals along the indicated longitudinal axis 21 of the underside of the DIN rail. In this embodiment, these recesses correspond approximately to the width of the underside of the DIN rail. In this embodiment, the distances between the recesses 20 along the longitudinal axis 21 are greater than the 202503212.
[0057] 13
[0058] Length of the recesses themselves. Depending on the application, elongated holes can also be provided along the longitudinal axis 21, which are closely spaced but not as wide. The size and shape of the recesses 20 depend essentially on the connection elements 51 of the higher-level unit 100 to which they are to be connected.
[0059] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the terminal block of the contact module 10 is mounted and secured by snapping it onto the rail 15. This method is particularly suitable for DIN rails or G-rails. The latter is especially advantageous when the contacting device 1 comprises a plurality of terminal blocks as contact modules 10, which snap in and out, thus allowing simple and secure attachment to the modified profile rail 15. The terminal blocks can then be suspended at an angle on one side of the profile rail 15 and, after adjusting the contact mechanisms 11, pivoted around the longitudinal axis of the profile rail in the direction of the connection elements 51 of the higher-level unit 100, and then come to rest on it.It is important that, before the contacting device is folded down, the terminal blocks are positioned so that at least one contact surface of the contact mechanisms 11 can touch the connection elements 51 of the higher-level unit 100, at least partially. Snap-in mechanisms could be used, for example, to ensure contact. A corresponding locking tab (not shown) could be provided on the terminal blocks, and a corresponding spring mechanism could be incorporated within the terminal blocks. Securing the terminal blocks with various accessories such as sliding nuts or hook-head screws is also conceivable.
[0060] As shown in Fig. 5, integrated power lines 14 lead from the contact mechanism 11 of the contacting module 10 of this embodiment in Fig. 6 within the housing of the contacting module via one or more electrical fuses 13 to at least one wiring unit 12 for connecting at least one signal transmission line 14. On the opposite sides of the housing of the contacting module 10, which run perpendicular to the surface of the higher-level unit, the module sections 8A are indicated as rectangular loops for attaching a band-shaped connecting element of the contacting modules 10 of the contacting device 1 of the system 40.
Claims
202503212 14 Patent claims 1. Contacting device (1) comprising at least two contacting modules (10) spaced apart from each other, which are coupled to each other via at least one connecting element (8) which is at least partially deformable, wherein the connecting element (8) has module sections (8A) for arrangement on the contacting modules (10) and coupling sections (8B) bridging the distance between adjacent contacting modules (10) for flexible connection of the module sections (8A).
2. Contacting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the module sections (8A) of the connecting element (8) are arranged in a form-fitting or force-fitting manner on the contacting modules (10).
3. Contacting device according to claim 2, characterized in that the module sections (8A) are further detachably arranged on the contacting modules (10).
4. Contacting device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the connecting element (8) is made in one piece and the module sections (8A) are formed integrally with the coupling sections (8B).
5. Contacting device according to claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the module sections (8A) of the connecting element (8) have a material with high stiffness while the coupling sections (8B) have a flexible material with low stiffness.
6. Contacting device according to claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the coupling sections (8B) of the connecting element (8) essentially have a U-shaped geometry with two long leg sections and a short leg section connecting the two long leg sections.
7. Contacting device according to claim 6, characterized in that, that the coupling sections (8B) are essentially designed as springs.
8. Contacting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contacting modules (10) have at least one contact mechanism (11) for contacting connection contacts (50, 51) of a higher-level unit (100). 15 9. Contacting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contacting modules (10) are designed in such a way that they can be coupled in a form-fitting and detachable manner.
10. Contacting device according to claim 9, characterized in that the contacting modules (10) are designed as connectors or terminal blocks.
11. Contacting device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the contacting module (10) further comprises at least one electrical fuse (13) and at least one wiring unit (12) for connecting a signal transmission line (14), wherein the signal path runs from the contact mechanism (11) of the contacting module (10) via the fuse (13) to the at least one wiring unit (12).
12. System (40) comprising at least one contacting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, and at least one profile rail (15), characterized in that the contacting modules (10) are designed as clamping devices, in particular as terminal blocks, which can be coupled to the at least one profile rail (15) in a form-fitting and detachable manner.
13. System (40) according to claim 12, characterized in that the profile rail (15) has recesses (20) on its underside which are designed such that, in order to produce an electrical contact, a contact mechanism (11) mounted on the underside of the clamping device touches at least a contact surface of a connecting contact (50, 51) of a superior unit (100) at least partially through the recess (20) of the profile rail (15).
14. Use of a contacting device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11 for electrically contacting a plurality of connected terminal contacts (50, 51) of a stack of electrochemical cells, in particular an electrolysis cell stack or a fuel cell stack, wherein each cell has at least one laterally projecting terminal contact (50, 51) for current dissipation.