EP3766132A1

EP3766132A1 - Spring force terminal for conductors

Info

Publication number: EP3766132A1
Application number: EP19709466.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Stephan Fehling; Michael Herrmann; Walter Hanning; Constantin Classen
Original assignee: Weidmueller Interface GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Weidmueller Interface GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2018-03-13
Filing date: 2019-03-06
Publication date: 2021-01-20
Also published as: WO2019174982A1; CN111869011A; DE202019101246U1; JP2021515972A; US11552413B2; CN111869011B; US20210057830A1; JP7316291B2; US20220209435A1; US11387580B2

Abstract

The invention relates to a spring force terminal (1), in particular a direct plug-in terminal, for connecting a conductor (10) which can be designed as a flexible stranded conductor, having at least the following features: a housing (3) with a chamber (4) and a plug-in channel (5) for the conductor into the chamber (4), a busbar (8) and/or a clamping cage (13), and a clamping spring (7) which is arranged in the chamber (4) and acts as a compression spring for fixing the electric conductor (10) on the busbar (8) and/or the clamping cage (13) in the region of a clamping point (K), wherein the clamping spring (7) has a clamping limb (7b) that can be pivoted about a pivot axis and can be adjusted from a latching state (R), in which the clamping limb is latched in a latching position, into a clamping state (K), in which the clamping limb is unlatched out of the latching state and pushes the electric conductor (10) against the busbar (8) or the clamping cage (13), and the latching state is produced by pressure acting on the clamping limb (11) in a conductor plug-in direction using a pusher (11). The clamping limb (7b) can be released from the latching state (R) using two differently actuatable adjustment means. The second trigger element (12) is designed to release the pusher (11) out of the latching position and thereby also release the clamping limb (7b) out of the latching state (R), said trigger element (12) being designed and arranged in the chamber (4) laterally of the pusher (11) such that the trigger element acts on the pusher perpendicularly to the conductor plug-in direction (X) or substantially perpendicularly to the conductor plug-in direction (X) in order to release the pusher out of the latching position.

Description

Spring terminal for conductor

The present invention relates to a spring-loaded terminal according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such spring terminals in a configuration as a direct plug-in terminals (push-in) with a clamping spring designed as a compression spring, which presses or presses the conductor against the busbar, are known in various embodiments. They differ mainly due to their application, for example, depending on the speed required by the current carrying capacity of the busbar, the spring force of the clamping spring and / or their installation conditions, especially their size. Here are a simple installation and a cost Fierstellung permanently Asked requirements for such a terminal.

The US 7,997,915 B2 discloses a wire end ferrule, at one end of a Di rect plug-in terminal for permanent connection of an electrical conductor is arranged. The direct plug-in terminal comprises a current-carrying clamping cage for the electrical contact of the electrical conductor and a spring for fixing the electrical rule conductor. The spring has a pivotable clamping leg, which is positioned at not inserted into the direct plug-in electrical conductor on a retaining edge, so that a free space for the electrical conductor kept and this is inserted into the clamping cage. When inserted into the direct plug-in terminal, the holding means is displaced so that the clamping leg is released and pivoted. The pivoted clamping leg presses the electrical conductor to the clamping cage.

From EP 2 768 079 A1 a further development of this direct plug-in terminal be known, in which the Verrastzustand with an actuating element, a Drü ckelement, after triggering of the locked clamping leg by the conductor is recoverable.

It is further known from DE 20 2017 103 185 U1 that the clamping leg can be released from the latching state with two different adjustment means. In this case, the latching state is not generated by locking an element on a free clamping edge of the clamping leg and the latching state is still solvable by introducing the Lei age in Leiterereinführrichtung in the housing. The first of the two adjusting means comprises a movable triggering element, which acts on the end of the kontaktie-generating conductor when loosening the conductor and with the clamping leg of the clamping spring directly or indirectly from the latching state is releasable. The second of the adjusting means, however, is an actuator for directly moving the Clamping leg. In this case, the actuating element itself can be latched together with the clamping leg of the clamping spring in the latching state and even directly from the latching state releasably, whereby the clamping leg of the clamping spring is released from the latching state. The actuator is a pusher for loading because of the clamping leg, which is displaceable in an insertion direction of the housing in a plug-in direction and limited perpendicular to the plug is movable and which is locked in the housing ver on a clamping edge of the housing in the latching state.

The spring-loaded terminal of the DE 20 2017 103 185 U1 has proven itself well. Nevertheless, their structural design should be further optimized. The solution to this problem is the object of the invention.

The object is achieved with a spring-loaded terminal according to claim 1 and / or 8. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent claims.

What is provided is a spring-loaded terminal, in particular direct plug-in terminal, for the connection of a conductor, which can be formed as a flexible stranded conductor, which has at least the following features:

a housing with a chamber and with an insertion channel for the conductor into the chamber,

a busbar and / or a clamping cage,

an arranged in the chamber, acting as a compression spring clamping spring for fixing the electrical conductor to the busbar and / or the clamping cage (13) in the region of a nip,

wherein the clamping spring pivotable about a pivot axis

Clamping leg, which is adjustable from a locking state in which it is locked in a detent position in a clamping state in which it is unlocked from the latching state and presses the electrical conductor against the busbar or the clamping cage, wherein the latching state by pressure on the Clamping legs in Leiteinführ direction is generated with a pusher,

wherein the clamping leg is releasable with two differently operable adjusting means from the latching state,

wherein the first of the two adjusting means comprises a movable trigger element, which acts on the end of the conductor to be contacted upon release of the conductor and with the second adjusting means and the clamping leg of the Klemmfe are releasable from the latching state, and

wherein the second of the two adjusting means of the pushers for moving the clamping leg, wherein the pusher in an actuating channel of the housing in Inserting direction is displaced and limited perpendicular to the insertion direction is movable Lich and even has a locking edge on which it can be latched in the housing at a locking edge of the housing in the latching state, wherein he holds the clamping spring accordingly locked in the open position, wherein the locking edge by entgegenge set moving from the latching state is solvable,

wherein the triggering element is designed for releasing the pusher from the detent position and thereby also for releasing the clamping leg from the latching state.

In this case, the triggering element is also arranged in the chamber side of the pusher and designed such that it is for releasing the pusher from the latching position perpendicular to the conductor insertion direction or substantially perpendicular -. at an angle less than 45 °, preferably less than 30 ° - acts on the pusher to the conductor insertion direction. For in this way, the pusher with the particularly low forces that the conductor can possibly only exert on the triggering element can be easily and safely released from the latching state, which also releases the clamping spring from the latching position.

The release of the open position or the detent position of the clamping leg is re rum on the two ways possible, as described in the generic state of the art. Due to the measure mentioned in claim 1 but a particularly easy to be released from the locked state spring clamp, de ren constructive structure and their usability insofar have been further improved.

For this purpose, it is advantageous if the triggering element acts upon release of the latching state on at least one actuating contour of the pusher.

It may further be provided that the triggering element is designed as a pivotally mounted in the housing rocker arm with at least one lever arm and with a rotation axis and that the pusher has a rotation axis D1 l.

In an advantageous embodiment, which also solves the problem, an actuating contour is provided on the pusher force clamp for clamping an electrical conductor in the spring terminal and / or for releasing the electrical conductor from the spring with an actuating counter-contour of the trigger element cooperates. In this case, the triggering element preferably rotates from a basic position about an axis of rotation into a pivoting position. It is particularly preferred that the actuating counter contour in the basic position below the pivot pin of the trigger seelementes is arranged. As a result, the spring clamp is particularly platzspa end produced.

Then it can be advantageously provided that the directions of rotation of the pusher and the triggering element when releasing the pusher from the latching state are the same. This measure is advantageous, but not mandatory. With her, a particularly com pact structure of the release element with the two release paths by a Lösebetäti supply by the conductor or a direct movement of the pusher with a tool from outside the terminal or by hand can be realized.

It can also be advantageously provided for a good and safe loosening that the axis of rotation of the pusher is in the conductor insertion in front of the locking edge and above the clamping leg of the clamping spring and / or that the axis of rotation of the Auslöseele Mentes in Leiterereinführrichtung before the one or more actuating contours of the pusher lies.

It is also advantageous that the latching state is not generated by locking an element on a free clamping edge of the clamping leg and that the Rastzu stood by introducing the conductor in the conductor insertion into the housing and an act with the head on the trigger element and Mentes by the action of the Auslöseele on the pusher perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the insertion Rich device is solvable.

In order to design the release of the pusher from its detent position and thus the triggering of the clamping spring from its associated locking particularly reliable, further measures can be taken. Thus, it can be advantageously provided that the corresponding latching edges of the pusher and the Ge housing are formed as gradations, which preferably have rounded edges and or which have corresponding locking edge surfaces in the locked state at an angle between 0 and 30 °, preferably 5 to 20 ° aligned with each other. In this way, the sliding of the pusher from the locking Ver is facilitated in each case without the latching state itself could trigger. Overall, a self-locking in the region of the locking edge will be maintained so far, which can be checked by the expert in the experiment.

The spring-loaded terminal is not only suitable for full conductors, but also to a special extent for stranded conductors. Because the stranded conductor is displaced back and forth without splicing the strands in the locked state in the free space of the chamber in the housing. It is a material for the busbar selectable, which has good electrical conductivity, for example, copper or a copper alloy. For the clamping spring a spring steel as Fierstellmaterial is advantageous.

In the following the invention with reference to an embodiment with reference to the drawings will be described in more detail. This embodiment is a - but not the only possible - variant of the constructive implementation of the invention, which is in particular special variable within the scope of the claims. Show it:

Fig. 1 a is a sectional view of a spring-loaded terminal with a clamp

leg, which is provided for jamming an insertable into the spring terminal ble or inserted electrical conductor, in an unlocked state;

1 b shows the spring-loaded terminal of FIG. 1 a) in the manner of the view of FIG. 1 a) with the clamping leg in a latching state;

Figure 2a is a sectional view of the spring-loaded terminal of Figure 1 b) with a conductor during insertion of the conductor in the spring-loaded terminal, wherein the clamping leg is still in the latching state.

FIG. 2b shows the spring-loaded terminal from FIG. 2a) with an electrical conductor inserted into the spring-loaded terminal, wherein the clamping limb is unlocked from the latching state;

3a is a partially cutaway perspective view of the spring clip of FIG.

1 a and b and 2a and b in the state of Fig. 1 a;

Fig. 3b, the spring clip of Fig. 3a in the selected there type of view, with egg nem head during insertion of the conductor in the Federkraftklem me, with the clamping leg is still in a locked state; Fig. 3c, the spring-loaded terminal of Fig. 3a) and 3b) in the An elected there

Facility, with an inserted into the spring terminal electrical conductor, the clamping leg is unlocked from the locking state;

Fig. 4a-j perspective views of some components and component groups of the spring terminals of Figures 1 to 3;

Fig. 5a is a sectional view of a spring clamp according to the type of Figure 1 in an assembled state and in a side view, but without Ge häuseunterteil, wherein the state corresponds to a latching state of the type of Figure 3b.

Fig. 5b is the sectional view of Figure A, supplemented by some force arrows and ge single axes of rotation.

6 shows a side view of an area of a latching edge between the housing and the pusher in the latching state, shown in enlarged detail;

7 shows a terminal block with two spring-loaded terminals according to the invention in a perspective view; Fig. 8 in (a) and (b) a triggering element for the spring-loaded terminals of the series terminal of Figure 7 in various perspective views.

FIG. 9 shows a row clamping arrangement with a multiplicity of terminal blocks arranged one after another in a rowing direction according to FIG. 7; FIG. and

Fig.10 in (a) - (d) each have a section of the terminal block of FIG.

7, each showing the spring clamp in different states.

Figs. 1 a and b. Fig. 2a, b and Fig. 3a, 3b and 3c show a first spring clamp 1 in different views and "Beschaltungszuständen". The individual components or assemblies of these components are to be understood in addition zend in Fig. 4a-4h, Fig. 5a, b and Fig. 6 to consider.

The spring-loaded terminal 1 has a housing 3, in which a direct plug connection 2 (also called "push-in connection") is formed. The housing 3 is preferably made of an insulating plastic. The housing 3 may be formed integrally or mehrtei lig. In this respect, reference is additionally made to the generic state of the art, in which various embodiments are described, which in principle can also be combined with the present invention. Thus, the housing 3 may be formed laterally open and it may be formed anreihbar.

The housing 3 - see also FIGS. 4a, 4c and 4d - consists here by way of example of a substantially rectangular cross-section, sleeve-like housing lower part 3a, on which an upper housing part 3b can be placed. Such a configuration is preferably realized here. The upper housing part 3b can be held on the lower housing part 3a by force and / or positive locking, for example, be locked.

In the housing 3, a chamber 4 for receiving functional elements of the di rect connections 2, in particular also metal parts are formed. Here, the chamber 4 is formed in the housing lower part 3a. The chamber 4 can be formed there upwards and possibly also downwardly open. At the top, the chamber 4 is closed by the upper housing part 3b. Downwards, it may be formed closed or open insofar as down to a connection to connect to an external electrical assembly can connect. In this respect, reference is made to Fig. 9 of the generic state of the art. The lower housing part 3a may alternatively also have a plurality of chambers, a plurality of direct connections 2 and, moreover, a plurality of housing upper parts or an upper housing part which crosses over a plurality of chambers (not shown here). The chamber 4 is on the one hand by a Leiterereinsteckkanal 5 with one of the Außensei th of the housing - called "Einsteckseite", here the top - connected and on the other hand by an actuating channel 6. The actuating channel 6 extends in We sentlichen parallel to Leitereinsteckkanal 5. The actuating channel may be cylindrical or in-step and / or conical. The conductor insertion channel 5 and / or the actuating channel 6 may advantageously be formed in the upper housing part 3b. The conductor insertion channel 5 is used for inserting a conductor 10 in a Leitereinsteckrichtung X in the housing. He may have a kind of insertion funnel. The conductor 10 has a stripped conductor end. This serves for insertion into the direct plug connection 2 (FIGS. 2a, 2b).

In the chamber 4, a clamping spring 7 and a bus bar 8 are arranged to form the direct plug connection 2. Optionally, a metal clamping cage can be seen before, which can serve to support the clamping spring 7 and / or the busbar 8. But it can also be provided no clamping cage. In this respect, reference is made in turn to the generic state of the art.

According to Fig. 1 a to 3c, a metallic assembly is provided, which has a (simple design) clamping cage 13 (see in particular Fig. 1 a and 2a), in which the clamping spring 7 can be inserted. The clamping cage 13 is at least U-shaped in a side view and has three legs 13a, 13b, 13c. Laterally it is open, but un problematic, since here the lower housing part 3a the conductor 10 centered.

Between these legs 13a, 13b, 13c, the clamping spring 7 is set. At least one of the legs 13a, b, c can be used for connection to an electrical subassembly (not shown here), for example for connection to a plug, not shown here, or to a printed circuit board or the like. The bus bar 8 is identical here to the clamping cage , in particular with its legs 13a.

The clamping cage 13 is used with the clamping spring 7 from an open side in the Ge housing base 3a. Such elements are preassembled to each other, so easy to assemble and are well protected in the housing base 3a.

In any case, the one leg 13a of the clamping cage 13 is formed by the busbar 8, which runs parallel to the Leitereinsteckrichtung X first in this section, then following the actual contact section below to a nip K in a transverse leg 13b transverse to Leitereinsteckrichtung X and then in a turn parallel to the conductor insertion opening X extending leg 13c against the Leiterereinsteckrichtung X. The clamping spring 7 is U-shaped or V-shaped and has a Stützschen Article 7 a and a clamping leg 7 b. The support leg 7a is supported on an abutment. This abutment may be formed by a projection on a wall of the chamber 4. Here it is ge by the leg 13 c of the busbar 8 forms.

The clamping leg 7b is connected via an arcuate back 7c with the Stützschen Article 7a. The back 7c may overlap a support contour of the housing 3, which projects into the chamber 4, but this is not mandatory.

The pivotable clamping leg 7b serves to act with spring force in the region of the clamping point K (FIG. 2b) with a clamping edge 7d at its end on the respective conductor 10 and to press this conductor 10 or its stripped conductor end against the busbar 8. Thus, an electrically conductive contact between the inserted conductor 10 and the bus bar 8 is made. This is well understood from Fig. 1 b.

The conductor 10 can be guided in the conductor insertion direction X through the conductor insertion channel 5 into the chamber 4 in the region of the clamping point K (see FIG. 2 a, FIG.

4a).

In the actuating channel 6, an actuating element is arranged. The actuating element is here in a preferred embodiment as a pressing element - called "pusher 1 1", formed, which is guided displaceably in the actuating channel 6.

Preferably, a free end 11 a of the pusher 11 projects beyond the outside of the housing 3, so that it is easily accessible. This is advantageous but not mandatory. Next can advantageously be formed at this free end 1 1 a an actuating contour - in particular a recess 1 1 d - for attaching a tool, in particular a screwdriver to the pusher 1 1. This recess 11 d is preferably dimensioned such that a screwdriver is relatively firmly and far into the recess 1 1 d inserted (Fig. 4b, Fig. 4c). The upper actuating end of the pusher 1 1 but can also lie within the actuating channel 6.

The other - end facing away from the operating end 1 1 c of the pusher 1 1 extends into the chamber 4. It lies here in the lower half of this chamber. The pusher 1 1 also has a pressure contour 1 1 b - here between its two ends 11 a and 1 1 c - on. This pressure contour 1 1 b serves to on the clamping leg 7b in the insertion direction to be able to exert a force with the pusher 1 1 to Nöff the clamping leg 7b.

Below the first pressing contour 1 1 b, the pusher 1 1 a slot 1 1 e in the manner of a through hole or a lower recess with side walls on (see also Fig. 4b and 4c).

The clamping leg 7b passes through in the assembled state, the slot 1 1 e and can be pivoted limited within the slot 1 1 e.

The pusher 1 1 also has an actuating contour 1 1 f for the action of a still to be described triggering element 12.

Side of the slot 1 1 e, the pusher here one or two arms 1 1 g (see also Fig. 4), at the lower ends in each case the actuating contour 1 1 f is formed for the triggering element 12 to be described later.

The pusher has the pusher contour 1 1 b here between the arms 1 1 g at the top of the slot 1 1 e, with the pressure contour 1 1 b, the pressure on the

Clamping leg 7b can be exercised to be able to exert pressure on the clamping leg 7b when depressing the pusher 1 1 in the actuating channel 6 in Leitereinführrichtung X with the Drückkontur 1 h or here the pressing edge to pivot this and space from the busbar 8 , so that a conductor 10 can be inserted into the open clamping point K.

The arms 1 1 g of the pusher 1 1 extend here laterally of the clamping spring 7. Such a safe release on the two arms 1 1 g of the pusher 1 1 can be realized. This action in turn moves the pusher 1 1, which is supported detent on the housing 3 so that it releases from the latching on the locking edge 31, whereby the pusher 1 1 is released and in the actuating channel 6 again against the insertion direction X by the spring force of the released clamping leg 7b slides slightly upwards.

Here this is at least one actuating contour 1 1 f near the end of 1 1 c of the Drü ckers 1 1 provided in the chamber 4. It lies below the terminal point K.

Laterally next to the end of 1 1 c of the pusher 1 1 or above the end of the pusher - here the side of the actuating contour 1 1 f (relative to a still explanatory latch state with maximum inserted pusher 1 1) - is a movable element Auslöseele 12 in the chamber 4 arranged. This trigger element 12 is here in an advantageous - but not mandatory - Ausgestal device formed as a rocker arm having two rotatable about an axis of rotation lever arms 12a, 12b (see also Fig. 4e), g), i), j)). The rocker arm 12 may be formed as a Win kelhebel. It may be stored in a bearing housing 14 or on a bearing bock or the like., That is inserted into the chamber 4, for example, together with the busbar 8 and / or the clamping cage 13. For this purpose, the tilting lever 12 may have an axis 12 c, which is inserted into a bearing recess 14 a, the Lagerbo ckes 14 pivotally. The lever arm 12a is for actuation by the conductor by pressing down in the chamber 4 and the lever arm 12b for moving the pusher 1 1 to release from the detent position.

The pusher 1 1 also has at least one lateral graduation in the manner of a Versat ZES, on which a first locking edge 1 1 h (see also Fig. 4b and 5 and 6) is formed from. This locking edge 1 1 h cooperates with a corresponding locking edge 31 on / in the chamber 4 of the housing 3. To trainees this locking edge 31, the housing 3, here the upper housing part 3b, a corresponding Stu examination.

In this case, the locking edge 1 1 h is formed on the side facing the clamping leg 7b of the pusher 1 1. This is advantageous but not mandatory.

By pressing the pusher 1 1 in the operating channel 6 in the insertion direction X can be exercised on the clamping leg 7b on the pressure contour 1 1 b.

On the one hand, this serves to open the clamping point K when the conductor is inserted in order to be able to remove the conductor 10.

Starting from the position of Fig.1 a, the function of the pusher 1 1 but to another one is the other. As soon as the pusher 1 1 or its locking edge 1 1 h in Leitein guide X has been pressed so deep that it passes the corresponding oppositely directed locking edge 31 of the housing 3 - here in the transition region from Actuate supply channel 6 to chamber 4 - is the pusher 1 1 pushed by the force of the clamping spring 7 and the clamping leg 7b somewhat perpendicular to the insertion direction X for the conductor 10 to the side and / or pivoted. The locking edge 1 1 h of the pusher 1 1 locked behind the corresponding locking edge 31 of the Ge housing 3 (see Fig. 5a and 5b). Here is the locking edge 31 and gradation of housin ses 3 in an exemplary embodiment of the upper housing part 3b (Fig. 5b). It is thus necessary for the pusher 11 to be somewhat displaceable and / or pivotable in the housing 3 or in the actuation channel 6 in a limited manner transversely to the insertion direction. This displaceability and / or pivoting is preferably dimensioned at least such that the locking edge 1 1 h when depressing the pusher 1 1 in the above-described (n) detent position can be moved (see in particular Fig. 5 and the pivot axis D1 1) , The pivot axis D1 1 is the axis about which the pusher rotates in the superimposed pivotal and linear movement in the release of the detent position when the trigger element acts on him (referred to as D1 1). Here, the actuating channel 6 here is not a cylindrical course but one in Leitereinführrichtung X initially slightly tapered and then widening course, the rotation axis D1 1 by conditioning the pusher 11 to the transition region can be formed in the housing 3 between the tapered and then re-expanding region of the actuating channel 6.

In this way, the clamping spring 7 or its clamping leg 7b in an open position in the housing 3 via a latching of the pusher also indirectly with latched or latched (see Figure 1 b and 2a).

This latching takes place by pressure on the clamping leg in Leitereinführrichtung with the pusher 1 1, which is latched to the housing in a locking position, from which it can also be moved out again to release the latching of the pusher 1 1 and thus also the clamping spring 7 ,

In the locked position, the conductor 10 can be pushed in a simple manner into the region of the clamping point K. By the pusher 1 1 itself is locked, and the clamping spring 7 and the clamping leg is held even in an open position ge. So a leader can be introduced. To contact this, the detent position must be solved. The release of the open position or the detent position of the clamping leg 7b is possible in two different ways.

Because the latching state is not achieved by latching an element to the free

Clamping edge 7d, that is, the end of the locking leg 7b takes place at which the conductor is to terminals, only a very small force is required to release the clamping leg from the detent position. This makes use of the invention by not the locking position or the locking state at the free clamping edge 7 d of the clamping leg 7 b manufactures but by pressure through the pusher 1 1 on the clamping leg 7 b spaced in the conductor insertion direction of the clamping edge rather in mittle ren Part of the clamping leg 7. In this case, even if the head 10, for example, is designed as a very thin multi-strand conductor, with which only a very small force can be exerted on the trigger element 12, the pusher 1 1 itself are used directly to solve the clamping spring 7 and its clamping leg 7 b from the detent position. The clamping spring 7 holds with its clamping leg 7 b the pusher 1 1 in the locked position.

This is implemented in various ways, so expediently in the manner described below. In this operation, the pusher 1 1 for Lö sen the detent position at its upper end something in the housing 3 is so moved - here laterally perpendicular to the insertion X - moved or pivoted in that the latching edge 1 1 h is moved out of the latching position on the latching edge 31 and the latching of the pusher 1 1 on the housing 3 is released. Thus, the detent Stel development of the locking leg 7b is released. In this way, the clamping leg 7b of the clamping spring 7 relax and the conductor 10 in the nip K against the power rail 8 press. This is conceivable here manually or with a tool.

More specifically, this area can be seen in FIG. Advantageously, radii at the corner regions or edge regions in the region of the corresponding Rastkan tenflächen the gradations or locking edges 31 and 1 1 h are formed, which are not too small, so that the pusher 1 1 is well detached from the housing. The radii may preferably be in a range between 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm. In addition, the Rastkan tenflächen, which actually define the "locking edges", not exactly parallel zueinan be aligned - which is also possible - but can preferably be oriented slightly obliquely at an angle greater than 1 ° to 45 ° to each other, that while a self-locking locking is achieved, but possibly also such a self-locking, which is easier to solve than one with parallel surfaces and / or very small edge radii in the region of the locking edge surfaces.

Alternatively, with the conductor end of the conductor 10 in the conductor insertion X a force F10 be exerted on the trigger element 12 to release the pusher 1 1 from the open position and thus from the detent position. The conductor 10 presses on the one of the two lever arms, namely the lever arm 12a. As a result, the trigger element rotates about its axis of rotation 12c and the other lever arm 12b acts with egg ner force F12 on the actuating contour 1 1 f of the pusher 1 1 a. This action in turn moves the pusher 1 1, which is supported on the housing 3, so that it releases from the latching on the locking edge 31, whereby the pusher 1 1 is released and in the actuating channel 6 again against the insertion direction X by the force of released clamping leg 7b slides slightly upwards. The above described moving the pusher 1 1 is an alternative solution, if, for example, the head 10 is so flexible that with him in a one case no sufficient force for Actuation of the trigger element 12 generates who can.

It is advantageous if the recess 1 1 d is dimensioned so deep at the out of the housing 4 protruding end 1 1 a of the pusher 1 1 that by hand or preferably with an inserted screwdriver or other tool a force on the pusher 1 first can be exercised to solve this from his rest position to sen.

The pusher 1 1 may still have a gradation, which corresponds to a gradation of Actuate supply channel 6 and realized a insertion limit for the pusher 1 1 in Leiterereinsteckrichtung X (not visible here).

According to Fig. 4, the trigger element 12 is formed from a supplementary subassembly to the assembly of the elements 13 and 7. This subassembly can be pure from Me tall, pure plastic or mixed of elements of metal and plastic be available. It has here the trigger element 12 and the bearing block or a Lagerge housing 14 on which the trigger element 12 is pivotally mounted. This sub-assembly is on the terminal cage 13 with pre-assembled and used together with this and the busbar 7 in the housing 3.

The bearing block 14 may be formed as a separate element to the clamping cage 13 made of metal or plastic, which is fastened to the clamping cage 13 (Fig. 4e, g, i, j) and in turn receptacles for the trigger element 12. Alternatively, it can also be formed by lugs on the busbar.

The trigger element 12 has the two lever arms 12a, 12b. Therefore, a force can be exerted on the trigger element 12 with the conductor end of the conductor 10 in Leitereinführrichtung X to release the pusher 1 1 from the open position and thus from the detent position. The conductor 10 presses on one of the two Hebelar me, namely the lever arm 12a. As a result, the trigger element 12 rotates about ne axis of rotation 12 c and the other lever arm 12 b acts as a triggering contour on one or two corresponding actuating contour (s) 1 1 f of the pusher 1 1 a. Preferably, the one or more actuating contours of the triggering element 12 act on the pusher 11 at a right angle or substantially at right angles (= 90 ° plus / minus 30 °).

Such a release of the pusher 1 1 and the clamping spring with particularly low forces is possible. As a result, in turn, the triggering safety is increased in terms of triggering by inserting a conductor into the nip in a simple manner.

Alternatively, the pusher 1 1 can be solved by pressing at its upper end directly from the detent position, as described above.

Preferably, the directions of rotation of the pusher 1 1 and the triggering element 12 when releasing the pusher 1 1 from the latching state are the same. This is clearly visible in FIG. 5. For in FIG. 5, the (imaginary) axes of rotation D1 1 and D12 of the pusher 11 and of the triggering element 12 are indicated.

The axis of rotation D1 1 of the pusher 1 1 is in Leitereinsführrichtung X in front of the locking edge of the pusher 1 1. It is also above the clamping leg 7b of the clamping spring 7 ("above" = in the direction of insertion X in front of the clamping spring 7).

The one or more actuating contours 1 1 f, however, are preferably at the level or better below the axis of rotation of the trigger element 12 ("below" = in the direction of insertion X behind the axis of rotation D12).

In this way, a compact design can be achieved and it is also possible in a simple manner, the above-described advantageous orientation of the force of the trigger element 12 to implement vertically or substantially perpendicular to the lever arm of the trigger element constructive.

It is also conceivable, optionally an additional element, in particular a sliding element for deflecting the conductor insertion force in the direction of the release force provided (not shown here).

Fig. 7 shows a terminal block 15 with two spring-loaded terminals 1 according to the invention in a perspective view. The terminal block 15 has a preferably in the mounting direction unilaterally open electrically insulating housing 3, the force terminals comprises the spring 1 and on a DIN rail 160 (see Fig. 9) can be latched. For latching onto the DIN rail 160, the housing 3 Aufrastmittel 16 on. The spring clamps 1 are arranged transversely to the insertion direction 91 in a transverse direction 93 and transversely to a direction of arrangement 92 on opposite sides I, II of the series terminal 15.

The spring clamps 1 each have the chamber in which each of the Klemmfe is arranged. The back 7c of the clamping spring 7 wraps around a portion of the Ste ges 70, which forms the pivot axis for the clamping leg 7b of the clamping spring 7. The support leg 7a of the clamping spring 7 is supported when pivoting the clamping leg 7b about the pivot axis of a support contour 32 of the housing 3 from.

Each of the spring-loaded terminals 1 has the pusher 1 1. This is arranged in Betätigungska channel 6. The clamping leg 7b passes through the slot 1 1 e of the pusher.

He is within the slot 1 1 e at least limited pivot. For actuating the clamping leg 7b, the pusher 1 1 has the pressing contour 1 1 b (see Fig. 10 (a)), with which it can exert pressure on the clamping leg 7b.

The pusher 1 1 also has the actuating contour 1 1 f for acting on the triggering element 12 (see Fig. 10 (c)).

The trigger element 12 is rotatably arranged here about a pivot pin 12c, which forms the axis of rotation. It is described in more detail in the context of FIG. 8. The triggering element 12 of the second, in the image plane left side of the terminal block 15 arranged spring terminal 1 is shown explosively exhibited and pushed by sliding in the direction of assembly 92 on its pivot pin 12c.

In addition, the spring-force terminals 1 of the terminal block 15 here in each case a clamping cage 13 with two transversely arranged legs 13a, 13b. The clamping cages 13 of the terminal block 15 are connected to each other by a busbar 8. The terminal cages 13 and the interconnecting power rail 8 is here shown exploded exhibited and by moving in on direction 92 in the terminal block 15 inserted.

In each of the spring terminals 1, an electrical conductor 10 through the conductor insertion channel 5 in the insertion direction 91 can be inserted. The spring-loaded terminals 1 with a plugged-in conductor 10 are shown in FIG. 9.

In the spring clamp 1 arranged on the first, right in the image plane I, the pusher 11 is latched with its latching edge 11 (see Fig. 10 (a)) to the latching edge 31 of the housing 3 in the latching state DR. The clamping spring 7 is characterized in the Locking state R, in which the clamping leg 7b releases the chamber 4 and therefore this is open for insertion of the electrical conductor 10. This state is also shown in FIG. 10

(A).

In the on the second, in the image plane left side II arranged Federerkraftklem me 1, the pusher 1 1, however, is in a dissolved, unlatched position L.

In this position, the pusher 1 1 relative to the detent position DR against the plug-in direction 91 is shifted upward. The clamping leg 7b is in the closed position K, in which he passes through the chamber 4. This condition is also shown in Fig. 10 (d).

Fig. 8 shows in (a) and (b) the trigger element 12 for the spring-loaded terminals 1 of this terminal 15 in two perspective views. The triggering element has egg nen hollow cylindrical body 12 f, which has at each opposite ends a wheel-shaped widening 12 g. The hollow cylindrical body 12f is slidable on the rotation axis forming the pivot pin 12c. At the trigger element 12 is a He belarm 12 a arranged, which is operable with the inserted into the spring terminal 1 electrical rule conductor 10. Between the spacers 12 g, an intermediate space 12 e is formed, in which the end 1 1 c of the pusher 1 1 is inserted. Starting from an open actuating end (not labeled), starting in the direction of the hollow cylindrical body 12 f, the lever arm 12 a widens. Approximately below the rotary axis 12c, it has an actuating counter-contour 12d (see Fig. 10 (a)), which is seen before, to act together with an actuating contour 11 f of the pusher 11. FIG. 9 shows a row clamping arrangement 150 with a multiplicity of terminal blocks 15, arranged one after another in the arrangement direction 92, according to FIG. 7. The row clamping arrangement 150 is latched onto a DIN rail 160. In each of the spring terminals 1, an electrical conductor 10 is inserted.

In the on the first, in the image plane right side I arranged spring terminal 1, the electrical conductor 10 is not yet jammed. This state is also shown in FIG. 10

(B).

In the on the second, in the image plane left side II arranged Federkraftklem me 1, the electrical conductor 10 is jammed. He presses the trigger element 12. The sen state also shows Fig. 10 (c).

FIG. 10 shows in (a) - (d) in each case a section of the terminal block 15 according to FIG. 7, the section in each case showing the spring-loaded terminal 1 in different states. In Fig. 10 (a), the pusher is in the latching state DR. This is also the clamping spring 7 in the latching state R and the clamping leg 7b is adjusted against its restoring force. As a result, the chamber 4 is opened and an electrical conductor 10 can be inserted into the spring-loaded terminal 1. The trigger element 12 is in the basic position G, in which the lever arm 12a of the trigger element 12, which is provided for cooperation with the electrical conductor 10, extends transversely to the insertion direction 91 in the transverse direction 93. In this basic position G, the actuating counter contour 12d is arranged below the pivot pin 12c forming the axis of rotation of the triggering element 12. As a result, the pusher 11 is in the intermediate space 12e between tween the widening 12 g of the hollow cylindrical body 12 f of the Auslöseele Mentes 12 is positioned. This arrangement is very space-saving and the spring clamp 1 therefore very small / narrow buildable.

Fig. 10 (b) shows the spring terminal 1 during insertion of the electrical conductor 10 in the chamber 4. The electrical conductor 10 is not jammed yet.

In Fig. 10 (c), the electrical conductor 10 is as far as possible in the chamber 4 leads, so that it actuates the lever arm 12 a of the trigger element 12 and this is rotated in the direction of rotation 95. The trigger element 12 is therefore located in a ver swinging pivot position S. The pusher 1 1 is in the released position L. He is by means of the clamping leg 7b with the restoring force of the clamping spring 7 ge conditions the plug 91 is moved. The clamping leg 7 b presses the electrical rule conductor 10 against the clamping cage 13, so that it is jammed in the spring terminal 1.

By the pivoting of the trigger element 12, the actuation Gegenkon tur 12d by the rotation angle (not labeled) wasting. As a result, it is exposed to its position below the pivot pin 12c. As a result, the actuating counter contour 12d for the operating contour 11 f of the pusher is easily accessible and actuated.

Based on this state, the pusher 1 1 can easily be moved in the insertion direction 91 and slightly against the transverse direction 93 (perpendicular to the insertion direction), so that the actuating contour 1 1 f of the pusher 1 1 with the Ge gene contour 12d of the trigger element 12 cooperates, and the trigger element 12 is rotated back against the direction of rotation 95. In this case, the clamping leg 7b is pivoted against the restoring force of the clamping spring 7 in the pivoting direction 97, so that it releases the electrical conductor 10. The conductor 10 can then be pulled against the A plug-in direction 91 from the chamber 4. Thus, another electrical conductor 10 is inserted into the chamber 4, the Drü cker 1 1 can now be latched with its locking edge 11 h at the locking edge 31 of the housing 3 again. The clamping spring 7 is then again in the state of Fig. 10 (a).

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

Spring terminal 1

Direct plug connection 2

Housing 3

Housing base 3a

Upper housing part 3b

Locking edge 31

Supporting contour 32

Chamber 4

Conductor insertion channel 5

Actuation channel 6

Clamping spring 7

Bridge, swivel axis 70

Support leg 7a

Clamping leg 7b

Back 7c

Clamping edge 7d

Locking state, open position R

Clamping state, closed position K

Busbar 8

Ladder 10

Pusher 1 1

free end 1 1 a

Well 1 1 d

End 1 1 c first pressure contour 1 1 b, 1 1 b '

Slot 1 1 e

Actuating contour 1 1 f

Arms 1 1 g

Locking edge 1 1 h

Locked DR

Solved L Triggering element 12 lever arms 12a, 12b pivot pin, axis of rotation 12c actuation counter-contour 12d

Gap 12e

Hollow cylindrical body 12f

Radical widening 12g

Basic position G

Swivel position S

Clamping cage 13

Leg 13a, 13a, 13c

Bearing block 14

Bearing recess 14a

Terminal block 15

Terminal block assembly 150

Latching means 16

DIN rail 160

Insertion / insertion direction 91

Arranging direction 92

Transverse direction 93

Extension direction 94, 96

Turning / swiveling direction 95, 97

First, in picture level right part I

Second, in picture level left part II

Claims

claims

1. spring terminal (1), in particular direct plug-in terminal, for connecting a conductor (10), which may be formed as a flexible stranded conductor having at least the following features:

a. a housing (3) having a chamber (4) and having an insertion channel (5) for the conductor into the chamber (4),

b. a busbar (8) and / or a clamping cage (13),

c. a in the chamber (4) acting as a compression spring Klemmfe the (7) for fixing the electrical conductor (10) on the busbar (8) and / or the clamping cage (13) in the region of a clamping point (K), d. wherein the clamping spring (7) has a clamping leg (7b) which can be pivoted about a pivot axis and is adjustable from a latching state (R) in which it is latched in a latching position into a clamping state (K), in which it emerges from Latching state is unlatched and the electrical conductor (10) against the busbar (8) or the Klemmkä fig (13) presses, wherein the latching state by pressure on the clamping leg (1 1) is generated in Leitereinführrichtung with a pusher (1 1) e. wherein the clamping leg (7b) with two different operable Ver adjusting means of the locking state (R) is solvable,

f. wherein the first of the two adjusting means comprises a movable tripping element (12) on which the end of the conductor to be contacted (10) acts upon release of the conductor (10), and

G. wherein the second of the two adjusting means of the pusher (1 1) for movement of the clamping leg (7 b), wherein the pusher (1 1) in a actuator should account duct (6) of the housing (3,) in the insertion direction (X) is displaceable and limited perpendicular to the insertion direction is movable and a locking edge (1 1 h), to which it in the housing (3,) at a locking edge (31) of the housing (3,) in the latching state (R) can be latched, where at he the clamping spring (7) holds correspondingly locked in the open position, wherein the latching edge (31) by opposing movement from the latching state (R) is releasable,

H. wherein the second triggering element (12) for releasing the pusher (1 1) from the detent position and thereby also for releasing the clamping leg (7 b) from the latching state (R) is designed,

characterized in that

i. the triggering element (12) is arranged and formed in such a way laterally of the pusher (1 1) in the chamber (4) that it is used for releasing the pusher from the latching position perpendicular to the conductor insertion direction (X) or in the sentlichen perpendicular to the conductor insertion direction (X) on the pusher acts.

2. Spring terminal (1) according to the preamble of claim 1 or claim 1,

characterized in that

j. an actuating contour (11 f) is provided on the pusher (1 1), which for clamping an electrical conductor (10) in the spring-loaded terminal (1) and / or for releasing the electrical conductor from the spring-loaded terminal (1) with an actuating mating contour ( 12 d) of the trigger element (12) cooperates so that the trigger element (12) from a basic position (G) about a rotation axis (12 c) in a pivot position (S) rotates, wherein the actuating mating contour (12 d) in the normal position ( G) is arranged below a pivot pin (12c) of the trigger element (12).

3. Spring terminal (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the release element (12) upon release of the latching state on at least one actuation contour (1 1 f) of the pusher (1 1) acts.

4. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trigger element (12) is arranged and formed such that the side of the pusher (1 1) in the chamber (4) that it is for releasing the pusher from the detent position in Essentially perpendicular - ie in a win angle of less than 45 °, preferably less than 30 ° - the conductor insertion direction (X) acts on the pusher.

5. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trigger element (12) as a in the housing (3) pivotally mounted rocker arm with lever arms (12a, 12b) and with a rotation axis (D12) is formed and that the pusher (1 1) has a rotation axis (D1 1).

6. spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the directions of rotation of the pusher (1 1) and the triggering lementes (12) when releasing the pusher (11) from the latching state are the same.

7. spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axis of rotation (D1 1) of the pusher (1 1) in Leitereinführ- direction (X) in front of the locking edge (1 1 h) of the pusher and before the korrespondie-generating locking edge (31) of the housing (3).

8. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the axis of rotation (D1 1) of the pusher (1 1) in Leitereinführ direction (X) in front of the clamping leg (7b) of the clamping spring (7).

9. Spring terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims or according to the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that the axis of rotation (D12) of the trigger element in the conductor insertion direction (X) in front of the one or more actuating contours (11 f) of the pusher (1 1) is located.

10. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the corresponding locking edges (11 h, 31) of the Drü ckers (1 1) and the housing (3) are formed as gradations.

1 1. spring terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gradations have rounded edges.

12. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gradations corresponding locking edge surfaces have, which are aligned in the locked state at an angle between 0 and 30 °, preferably 5 to 20 ° to each other.

13. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the latching state (R) is not generated by latching a Elemen tes on a free clamping edge (7 d) of the clamping leg (7 b) and that the latching state by introducing the conductor in Ladereinereinrichtung in the housing and acting on the conductor (10) on the trigger element (12) and by the action of the trigger element on the pusher is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the insertion detachable.

14. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rocker arm has two lever arms (12a, 12b), of which is adapted to be pivoted with the conductor (10) and of which the other designed is to act on the pusher (1 1) to release it from the latching state (X).

15. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (3) has a housing lower part (3a) and a thereto fastened housing upper part (3b), wherein preferably the housin seunterteil (3a) is designed in the manner of a circumferentially closed and one-sided or two-sided open sleeve in which the chamber (4) is formed.

16. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the upper housing part (3b) of the Leiterereinsteckkanal (5) and the actuating channel (6) are formed.

17. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a clamping cage (13) is provided, in which the clamping spring (7) is insertable and that this clamping cage (13) and the clamping spring (7) of an open End face forth in the sleeve-like housing lower part (3A) can be used.

18. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (3) is laterally open and preferably arranged anreihbar.

19. spring clamp (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a bearing block (15) on the clamping cage (13) is formed or arranged, on which the trigger element (12) is pivotally mounted.

20. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating channel (6) for the pusher (1 1) in wesent union parallel to the conductor insertion channel (5).

21. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pusher (1 1) with a free end (11 a) from the Be tätigungskanal (6) in any case in the latching state (R) projects or with this curse tet or that the pusher (1 1) with a free end (11 a) in any case in the latching state (R) within the housing (3).

22. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pusher (1 1) is moved in the insertion direction (X) by the spring force of the clamping spring (7) transversely to the insertion direction (X) in the locking position.

23 spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pusher (1 1) by moving by hand or with a nem manually operable actuating tool such as a screwdriver (S), in particular in the opposite direction transverse to the insertion, from the latching state (R) is releasable.

24. Spring terminal (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pusher (1 1) at least one recess (1 1 d) or two recesses (1 1 d, 1 1 d 'for attachment of the actuating tool has, the individually or in interaction is / are dimensioned such that with the actuating tool moving of the pusher (1 1) in the insertion direction (X) and also perpendicular to the insertion (X) can be realized.