EP4211752A1

EP4211752A1 - Terminal, tool for connecting an electric conductor to the terminal, and method for connecting an electric conductor to the terminal

Info

Publication number: EP4211752A1
Application number: EP21769452.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Andreas Wendt
Original assignee: Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2020-09-09
Filing date: 2021-09-01
Publication date: 2023-07-19
Also published as: WO2022053361A1; CN116057792A; LU102037B1; US20230361490A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a terminal (1) for connecting an electric conductor (2) and to a tool (100) for producing a connection between an electric conductor (2) and a terminal (1). The invention additionally relates to a method for producing a connection between an electric conductor (2) and a terminal (1) and to an assembly consisting of a terminal (1) and a tool (100).

Description

Clamp and tool for connecting an electrical conductor to the clamp and method of connecting an electrical conductor to the clamp

The invention relates to a terminal for connecting an electrical conductor and a tool for connecting an electrical conductor to a terminal. The invention also relates to a method for producing a connection of an electrical conductor to a clamp and an arrangement of clamp and tool.

Insulation displacement connection (IDC) is known from the prior art. An electrical contact is often formed by inserting or pressing electrical conductors into a fork-like resilient insulation displacement connector. The insulation of the electrical conductor is severed and the metallic, electrically conductive inner conductor is clamped in for contact with the insulation displacement connector.

Insulation displacement terminals are available in different designs, for example with single or double clamping. The insulation displacement connector must always be adapted and selected to the intended conductor type and its insulating material. For example, stranded conductors, solid conductors and enameled wire conductors with a cross section of approx. 0.01mm ² (enamelled wire) to approx. 6mm ² can be contacted with this. Corresponding tools for producing a connection of electrical conductors to terminals are also known from the prior art. A further problem is that, especially in the case of electrical conductors with a larger cross section, correspondingly higher forces have to be applied to connect the electrical conductor to the terminal. In this case, mechanical stresses that occur can, for example, be undesirably transferred to circuit boards or printed circuit boards to which the terminal is attached and/or even damage them.

For example, the document DE 10 2015 121 743 A1 describes a tool for connecting an electrical conductor that is encased in insulation to an insulation displacement connector. Inside the tool is a punch element for guidance and a cutting area for cutting the insulation of the electrical conductor before the electrical conductor is inserted into the clamping slot of the insulation displacement terminal. The tool is equipped with pivotable holding means for holding engagement with the insulation displacement terminal when the tool is in a set-down position.

From document US 3,805,214 A a gun-like tool for connecting an insulated electrical conductor to an electrical connector in the form of a clamp is known. The tool has a sliding piston with a mandrel for inserting the electrical conductor into the clamp, which, by means of corresponding outer edges and surfaces, actuates elastically resilient gripping elements for holding and releasing the clamp.

The document DE 10 2016 114 344 B3 discloses a lever tool for connecting an electrical conductor sheathed with insulation to an insulation displacement connector, the lever tool having a stamping element with pressure sections for the electrical conductor and a guide element on the one hand and a counter-bearing element for holding the insulation displacement connector on the other. The guide element engages in a form-fitting manner in a guide recess of the insulation displacement connector.

The document DE 100 48 298 A1 discloses a conductor connection element for connecting an electrical conductor to an insulation displacement connector. The conductor connection element has a connection body with two U-shaped conductor receiving chambers and an integral part with a thread for actuating a screwable clamping screw in order to press the electrical conductor into the insulation displacement terminal, which is arranged on the side of the conductor receiving chambers by means of a pin.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an improved terminal, an improved tool and an improved method for connecting an electrical conductor to a terminal.

This object is solved by the features of the independent claims. Further exemplary embodiments and applications of the invention emerge from the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

According to a first general aspect, the invention relates to a terminal for connecting an electrical conductor with a sheath, the terminal comprising a first side wall section, preferably extending in the direction of the connected electrical conductor or the electrical conductor to be connected, and a second side wall section, which are opposite and/or separate from one another are arranged at a distance from one another, with the first side wall section having a first clamping element and the second side wall section having a second clamping element, which are assigned to one another to form a clamping slot and are arranged spaced apart from one another at least in sections, the first side wall section on its end face and preferably the second side wall section on its end face , on which the electrical conductor is guided or attached to the terminal slot for connection to the terminal, one each Recess or recess has a groove-shaped design in order to receive or store a tool placed against the clamp or a tool making contact with the clamp in a form-fitting manner, at least in sections.

The terminal can preferably be designed as an insulation displacement terminal or as a so-called edge connector.

The connection can preferably include the formation of an electrically conductive connection between the terminal and the electrical conductor. The electrical conductor can preferably be an insulated electrical conductor or an electrical conductor sheathed with at least one insulating material.

The first side wall section and/or the second side wall section can preferably be designed as a metallic spring, for example as a leaf spring. In other words, the clamp can be designed as a double spring clamp. The first side wall section and the second side wall section can preferably be spaced apart from one another by a common web.

The clamping slot can preferably be designed to accommodate an electrical conductor. The first clamping element can preferably contact the second clamping element at least in sections in the area of the clamping slot, for example via a projection.

With the clamp according to the invention, an operative connection can be provided with a correspondingly configured and/or designed tool, or an operative connection can be provided which ensures storage or storage function of the tool on the clamp in the axial direction, i.e. in the direction of the connected or to be connected electrical conductor.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the recess extends along the wall thickness of the first side wall section and/or along the wall thickness of the second side wall section, preferably essentially perpendicular to the direction of the connected or to be connected electrical conductor.

A groove can preferably be formed on the end face, ie in the area of the end faces of the first and/or the second side wall section. As a result, the clamp, for example, does not require any further processing operations to create receiving areas or storage areas for a tool to be attached or applied.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the recess of the first and/or the second side wall section in a view, preferably in a side view of the clamp, at least in sections has a substantially funnel-shaped contour and/or a substantially arc-shaped and/or a has a substantially round contour.

As a result, for example, more or less defined guidance for a corresponding section of a tool for applying or attaching the tool to the clamp can be ensured.

It is also possible for the recess to be wedge-shaped, at least in sections.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the recess in the first side wall section is centered or arranged centrally in relation to the first side wall section and/or the recess in the second side wall section is centered or arranged in the middle in relation to the second side wall section.

As a result, for example, improved mechanical behavior, preferably elastic behavior, of the clamp with regard to the spring effect can be achieved.

The contours of the recesses on the first and the second side wall section preferably overlap in a view, preferably in a side view, of the clamp.

The tool can thus, for example, be rotated by 180° and placed on the clamp or attached to the clamp. This enables, for example, a further simplified assembly process.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the first clamping element and the second clamping element form at least one connection section for connecting the electrical conductor, the at least one connection section being viewed in a view, preferably in a side view, in the direction of the connected or to be connected Electrical conductor, having a substantially round or ring-shaped contour or a substantially oval or curved contour.

The at least one connection section can preferably be formed and/or arranged within the clamping slot of the clamp, preferably delimited on one side by at least one projection of the first and/or second clamping element.

As a result, electrical conductors of different sizes, ie different diameters, can be taken into account, for example for the connection to the terminal, at least in sections for receiving or contacting.

The first clamping element can be configured essentially identically and/or essentially symmetrically to the second clamping element, at least in sections.

A mutually directed arrangement of clamping surfaces in the form of end faces of the first clamping element and the second clamping element, preferably for forming at least one connection section, enables a clamping force or pressing force of a corresponding magnitude with such a configuration, for example, in relation to the electrical conductor.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the clamping slot in a view, preferably in a side view in the direction of the connected electrical conductor or the electrical conductor to be connected, at least in sections has a substantially V-shaped contour, which preferably fits into the contour of the at least one Connection section passes.

As a result, for example, the reception or guidance of the electrical conductor in or within the clamping slot can be further improved. Due to such a path for the electrical conductor, which is defined by the clamp, further elements or components on the tool for guiding the electrical conductor can be dispensed with, for example.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the first side wall section and the second side wall section are connected to one another via a common web and preferably the first side wall section, the second side wall section and the web in a view, preferably in a sectional view in the direction of the connected or of the electrical conductor to be connected, are essentially U-shaped. It is possible for the first side wall section and/or the first clamping element and/or the second side wall section and/or the second clamping element to have a plate-shaped and/or flat design, at least in sections.

This makes it possible, for example, to reduce the weight of the clamp without significantly impairing mechanical properties such as rigidity or stability.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the first side wall section comprises a further first clamping element and the second side wall section comprises a further second clamping element, which are assigned to one another and spaced apart from one another at least in sections to form a further clamping slot.

As a result, for example, the electrical conductor can be connected to the terminal at two spaced-apart connection sections, which results, for example, in optimized electrical contacting.

It is possible for the further first clamping element to contact the further second clamping element at least in sections in order to form an operative connection between the further first clamping element and the further second clamping element.

The further first clamping element can additionally be configured essentially identically and/or symmetrically to the further second clamping element, at least in sections.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the first side wall section and/or the second side wall section has at least one holding element for forming an operative connection with a tool placed or attached to the clamp on a front side opposite the front side with the recess.

The at least one holding element can be designed, for example, as a projection or as a recess, that is to say a recess.

The operative connection can preferably have a positive connection at least in sections and/or a non-positive connection at least in sections, such as a clamp connection, in order to preferably generate a closed flow of force at least in sections within the tool and the clamp. In other words, the at least one holding element can be designed in such a way that a tool, preferably a gripping element or locking element of the tool, can be attached to it.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the clamp is formed from a metallic material, preferably integrally in one piece, preferably by at least one bending process and/or stamping process.

As a result, for example, the clamp can be manufactured inexpensively.

A second general aspect of the invention relates to a tool, preferably an application tool, for making a connection, i.e. for connecting, an electrical conductor with a sheath to a terminal with at least one holding element and at least one groove-shaped recess on a front side, on which the electrical conductor is connected the clamping slot of the clamp for connection to the clamp is guided or attached, preferably to a clamp as disclosed herein, wherein the tool comprises a guide frame which is configured at least in sections for contacting or connecting the clamp, preferably at least the at least one recess, and/or or is formed, and a carriage unit which is movably mounted on the guide frame for guiding the electrical conductor into the terminal, preferably into the clamping slot of the terminal, the guide frame having at least one locking element which is pivotally mounted and the carriage unit for actuating the at least one locking element is slidably coupled to or with the at least one locking element in order, at least in sections, to engage the at least one locking element with the at least one holding element of the terminal during the guidance of the electrical conductor into the terminal, preferably within the terminal to bring intervention.

The tool can preferably be configured and/or designed for applying and/or connecting an electrical conductor to a clamp. The electrical conductor can be designed as a sheathed conductor in the form of an electrical conductor with a sheath. The carriage unit can preferably be mounted in a translationally displaceable manner.

The terminal can be contacted by the tool in a form-fitting manner, at least in sections. As a result, a tool is provided, for example, which avoids mechanical loads on carrier materials or carrier structures of a terminal, such as circuit boards or circuit boards, when connecting an electrical conductor to the terminal, or at least keeps them as low as possible. Mechanical loads, for example in the form of forces, preferably occur predominantly only within the tool, the electrical conductor and the clamp.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the guide frame has at least one essentially tongue-shaped or essentially pin-like section, preferably projection, in the contact area for at least section-wise contacting of the terminal, preferably the at least one groove-shaped recess.

As a result, a form-fitting tongue and groove connection can be formed, for example, at least in sections.

The essentially spring-shaped or essentially pin-like projection can, for example, be rounded and/or chamfered at least in sections.

It is possible for the guide frame to have at least one cutting element in order to cut the sheathing of the electrical conductor at least in sections and preferably before the electrical conductor is guided into the terminal or within the terminal, preferably by the carriage unit, with the at least one cutting element preferably being detachable and / or is pivotally mounted.

In a preferred embodiment, the guide frame can have four cutting elements. Preferably, at least one pre-cutting of the electrical conductor can take place, for example, by the at least one cutting element. The at least one cutting element can be replaced by a detachable mounting, for example, and/or replaced by at least one cutting element of a different configuration and/or design. As a result, for example, the cutting depth and/or the cutting angle on the electrical conductor can be varied. Furthermore, as a result, for example, the tool can be adapted to different electrical conductors. According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one cutting element can be attached or attached to a bearing pin, with at least one recess of the at least one cutting element receiving a projection of the guide frame, which supports the bearing pin in sections.

The recess of the at least one cutting element can preferably at least partially contact or rest against the projection of the guide frame.

As a result, for example, an axial displaceability of the at least one cutting element in the direction of the bearing bolt can be prevented.

The bearing pin can be configured, for example, at least in sections, in the shape of a cylinder.

It is possible for the at least one cutting element to be configured and/or designed, preferably configured and/or designed at least in sections in the shape of a wedge or pyramid, to push the sheathing of the electrical conductor apart at the cut point or in the cut area, preferably pushing it apart to press.

The cut point or the cut area can preferably form the electrical contact point or the electrical contact area for forming the connection of the electrical conductor to the terminal, ie to one of the connection sections of the terminal.

In other words, the electrical conductor that has been stripped in places or in certain areas can be prepared for guiding or insertion into the clamping slot of the clamp. The insulation of the electrical conductor can preferably be pushed or pushed apart at least as far as the at least one clamping slot of the clamp is wide.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one cutting element is subjected to a pretension, preferably by a spiral spring, and/or is arranged or designed to be adjustable, preferably by means of a screw connection.

The spiral spring can preferably move or return the at least one cutting element to a defined initial position. The spiral spring can preferably be arranged on the bearing bolt on which the at least one cutting element is detachably and/or pivotably mounted, and/or arranged or supported on the projection of the guide frame.

The adjustability of the at least one cutting element, preferably by means of a screw connection, can preferably include the cutting depth and/or the cutting angle. In this way, for example, different electrical conductors, that is to say electrical conductors of different sizes, can be processed with the tool.

The screw connection can preferably make contact with a stop on the guide frame.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the carriage unit is slidably mounted on the guide frame by means of a link guide, with preferably two link tracks being arranged or formed on the guide frame and two sliding blocks being arranged or formed on the carriage unit.

The sliding blocks can preferably be accommodated at least in sections in a form-fitting manner in the sliding tracks.

It is possible for the carriage unit to include at least one stop element, preferably in the form of a stop buffer, for contacting the clamp and for the at least one stop element to be adjustable in its position relative to the carriage unit.

In this way, for example, the distance traveled by the carriage unit can be adjusted, and this ensures that the electrical conductor is guided into the terminal from a starting position to a definable end position, ie connection position.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one stop element comprises a screw connection, a threaded screw or threaded spindle with a stop buffer preferably being provided to contact the terminal at least in sections, preferably in a connection position of the electrical conductor to the terminal. According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the guide frame has at least one shoulder, preferably at least one fold, in the contact area or holding area for contacting the terminal at least in sections, which forms a stop to preferably prevent plastic deformation of the terminal during the connection of the prevent electrical conductor to the terminal.

For example, this can prevent the clamp from being bent open too much.

It is possible for the at least one shoulder of the guide frame to have a chamfer or a rounding at least in sections in the contact area or holding area.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the at least one locking element has a hook section, preferably in the contact area or holding area for at least section-wise contacting of the clamp, in order to encompass the clamp on the at least one holding element at least in sections, the hook section preferably at least has a chamfer or a rounding in sections.

This ensures, for example, that the clamp can be picked up easily and precisely in order to hold the clamp via the at least one locking element.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the carriage unit comprises an actuating element, via which the carriage unit is coupled to or with the at least one locking element, wherein the actuating element is preferably configured at least in sections as cylindrical or bolt-shaped and/or with the at least one Locking element, preferably a sliding surface of the at least one locking element, forms a plain bearing connection.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the pivot axis of the at least one cutting element and the pivot axis of the at least one locking element are essentially perpendicular to one another or are arranged perpendicular to one another in a view, preferably in a plan view.

In addition, the first/further first clamping element and/or the second/further second clamping element can be designed at least in sections as a cutting element and preferably each have a cutting edge at least in sections to prevent further cutting of the to be able to carry out the electrical conductor through the first/further first clamping element and/or the second/further second clamping element.

A third general aspect of the invention relates to a method for producing a connection of an electrical conductor with sheathing to a terminal with at least one clamping slot, at least one holding element and at least one groove-shaped recess on a front side, on which the electrical conductor is connected to the clamping slot of the terminal for connection is brought or attached to the clamp. The clamp may preferably be configured as disclosed herein. The method can preferably be carried out with a tool as disclosed herein. The tool can be operated manually, for example, or it can also be arranged on a robot arm for the automated production of the connection.

The procedure includes:

Placing or applying the tool to the clamp, preferably on end faces of at least two opposite side wall sections of the clamp which are spaced apart from the at least one clamping slot and which each have the at least one groove-shaped recess;

at least partially forming a form-fitting, preferably detachable, connection between the at least one recess and the tool, preferably a spring-shaped or peg-like section of the tool;

inserting the electrical conductor into the tool;

Attaching at least one pivotally mounted locking element of the tool to the clamp, preferably to the at least one holding element, by means of the carriage unit and holding the clamp, preferably by the at least one pivoted locking element;

guiding the electrical conductor to and/or at least partially into the area of the at least one clamping slot by means of a carriage unit of the tool;

Leading, preferably pushing or pressing, the electrical conductor into the region of a connection section of the at least one clamping slot and establishing the connection between the electrical conductor and the clamp. Attaching at least one pivotally mounted locking element of the tool to the clamp can also include, for example: Forming a power flow, preferably a closed power flow, between the clamp, the electrical conductor and the tool, preferably the at least one pivoted locking element.

The guiding, preferably pushing or pressing, of the electrical conductor into the region of a connection section of the at least one clamping slot can also preferably include, at least in sections and/or at least temporarily, a widening or folding open of the clamp.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the method further comprises: guiding the electrical conductor to at least one cutting element of the tool by means of the carriage unit;

at least partially cutting the sheathing of the electrical conductor at a point to be connected to the terminal or at a region to be connected to the terminal by means of the at least one cutting element;

The cutting can preferably include cutting through the insulation at the point to be contacted or in the area to be contacted up to at least one wire. Preferably, the insulation of the electrical conductor can be cut at a time when the at least one pivotally mounted locking element is already holding the terminal or making contact with it, preferably on the at least one holding element of the terminal.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it can be provided that the method further comprises: pushing apart or pressing apart the sheathing of the electrical conductor at the point cut at least in sections or the area cut at least in sections by means of the at least one cutting element.

The casing can be pushed apart or pushed apart as far as the at least one clamping slot of the clamp is wide.

A fourth general aspect of the invention relates to an arrangement comprising a clamp as disclosed herein and a tool as disclosed herein. In order to avoid repetition, features that are directed purely to the device of the tool according to the invention and/or that are disclosed in connection therewith should also apply as disclosed in accordance with the method and be claimable and vice versa.

The exemplary embodiments and features of the invention described above can be combined with one another as desired. Further or other details and advantageous effects of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the attached figures.

Show it:

1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the clamp;

FIG. 1B is a side view of the clamp embodiment shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C is a front view of the clamp embodiment shown in FIG. 1A;

1D is a plan view of the clamp embodiment shown in FIG. 1A;

• Figure 2A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the tool;

FIG. 2B is a side view of the tool embodiment shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a front view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 2A;

3A is a perspective view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C and another embodiment of a clamp;

FIG. 3B is a side view of the embodiment of the tool and clamp shown in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a front view of the embodiment of the tool and clamp shown in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the tool and clamp embodiment shown in FIG. 3A and an electrical conductor inserted into the tool;

FIG. 4B is a side view of the embodiment of the tool and clip shown in FIG. 4A with the electrical conductor loaded into the tool;

4C is a front view of the embodiment of the tool and clamp shown in FIG. 4A with the electrical conductor inserted into the tool;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the tool and clamp embodiment shown in FIG. 3A and an electrical conductor connected to the clamp; FIG. 5B is a side view of the embodiment of the tool and clamp shown in FIG. 5A with the electrical conductor connected to the clamp;

FIG. 5C is a front view of the embodiment of the tool and clamp shown in FIG. 5A with the electrical conductor connected to the clamp;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the tool embodiment shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 6B shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A shows a further perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the tool illustrated in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7B shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the cutting element shown in FIG. 7B;

FIG. 8A is a plan view of the tool embodiment shown in FIG. 2A;

Fig. 8B is a sectional view (section A-A in Fig. 8A) of the tool embodiment shown in Fig. 8A;

FIG. 8C shows an enlarged area of the exemplary embodiment of the tool illustrated in FIG. 8B in a sectional view;

FIG. 9A is a top plan view of the tool embodiment shown in FIG. 2A;

Fig. 9B is a sectional view (section A-A in Fig. 9A) of the embodiment of the tool shown in Fig. 9A;

FIG. 9C shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the tool shown in sectional view in FIG. 9B;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 3A (without the carriage assembly) with the clamp;

FIG. 10B is an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A is a top plan view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 3A (without the carriage assembly) with the clamp;

Figure 11B is a sectional view (section A-A of Figure 11A) of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in Figure 11A;

FIG. 11C is an enlarged portion of the sectional view of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in FIG. 11B; 11A is a sectional view (section BB in FIG. 11A) of the embodiment of the tool with (expanded) clamp shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 11E is an enlarged portion of the sectional view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 11D with (expanded) clamp;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 12B is an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13A is a top plan view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 3A (without the carriage assembly) with the clamp;

Fig. 13B is a sectional view (section A-A in Fig. 13A) of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in Fig. 13A;

FIG. 13C is an enlarged portion of the sectional view of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in FIG. 13B;

FIG. 14A is a top plan view of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in FIG. 3A;

Figure 14B is a sectional view (section A-A of Figure 14A) of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in Figure 14A;

Figure 14C is another sectional view (section B-B of Figure 14A) of the embodiment of the clamp tool shown in Figure 14A;

FIG. 14D is a perspective view of the punch element of the tool embodiment shown in FIG. 3A.

Identical or functionally equivalent components or elements are identified in the figures with the same reference symbols. For their explanation, reference is also made in part to the description of other exemplary embodiments and/or figures in order to avoid repetition.

The following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures serves for the purpose of further illustration or clarification and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the terminal 1 for connecting an electrical conductor 2 with a sheath 20, ie for connecting a sheathed electrical conductor 2 (see, for example, FIGS. 4A to 5C). The clamp 1 comprises a web 5 which is plate-shaped. Components and elements of the clamp 1 are arranged or formed on the web 5, which are described in more detail below.

On the one hand, fastening plugs 23 in the form of soldering pins or soldering pins are arranged or preferably formed on the web 5 . The fastening plugs 23 are used to attach or fasten the terminal 1 to, for example, a circuit board, circuit board or printed circuit board (not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity).

Furthermore, the web 5 comprises a first side wall section 3 and a second side wall section 4 . The first side wall section 3 is arranged at a distance from the second side wall section 4 via the web 5 . In addition, the first side wall section 3 is arranged opposite the second side wall section 4 .

The first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 are essentially mirror-symmetrical to one another. The first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 extend in the direction of the connected or to be connected electrical conductor 2 (double arrow marked with "X"). The first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 are preferably designed as resilient or preferably spring-elastic elements in the form of Formed metal springs and therefore have a certain elasticity.

The first side wall section 3 has an integrally formed first clamping element 7 and an integrally formed further first clamping element 16 in the direction of the connected electrical conductor 2 or the electrical conductor 2 to be connected in each case on an outer side, ie an end face. The second side wall section 4 has an integrally formed second clamping element 8 and an integrally formed further second clamping element 17 in the direction of the connected electrical conductor 2 or the electrical conductor 2 to be connected in each case on an outer side, ie an end face.

The first clamping element 7 and the second clamping element 8 are configured and/or arranged substantially mirror-symmetrically to one another, at least in sections. The additional first clamping element 16 and the additional second clamping element 17 are configured and/or arranged substantially mirror-symmetrically to one another, at least in sections. The additional first clamping element 16 and the additional second clamping element 17 are configured and/or designed in accordance with the first clamping element 16 and the second clamping element 17 . The first clamping element 7 and the second clamping element 8 as well as the further first clamping element 16 and the further second clamping element 17 are arranged spaced apart from one another at least in sections via the first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 and thus each form a clamping slot 6. The clamping slot 6 is used to hold and/or connect the electrical conductor 2 and is explained in more detail below.

The first clamping element 7 and the second clamping element 8 are configured and/or designed and arranged relative to one another in such a way that they form a connection section 11 for connecting the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1 . The further first clamping element 16 and the further second clamping element 17 are also configured and/or designed and arranged in relation to one another in such a way that they form a (further) connection section 11 (not visible in the figures) for connecting the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1. The electrical conductor 2 preferably remains in the connection sections 11 in the connected state of the electrical conductor 2.

Furthermore, the clamp 1 shown in Figure 1A comprises retaining elements 18 in the form of molded wall sections, which are located between the first side wall section 3 and the first clamping element 7 and the further first clamping element 16 and between the second side wall section 4 and the second clamping element 8 and the further second clamping element 17 are located. Alternatively, the holding elements 18 can also be formed, for example, as protruding or protruding projections. The holding elements 18 are used to form at least some sections of a positive connection with a tool 100 (see the further Figures 2A to 14C) around the terminal 1 on the tool 100 to form a power flow, preferably during the connection of the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1 to hold. Each wall section of a holding element 18 preferably has a respective contact surface 19 (see in particular the further FIGS. 1B and 1C).

On the end face of the first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4, i.e. the side on which the electrical conductor 2 is guided or placed on the clamping slot 6 for connection to the terminal 1, the first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 each comprise a recess 12, 13. The recesses 12, 13 are designed in the form of grooves in order to receive a tool 100 placed against the clamp 1 or making contact with the clamp 1 in a form-fitting manner, at least in sections. the Recess 12 on the first side wall section 3 and the recess 13 on the second side wall section 4 are essentially symmetrical and/or identical to one another.

The recess 12 extends along the wall thickness D3 of the first side wall section 3 and the recess 13 extends along the wall thickness D4 of the second side wall section 4. The transition of the recess 12 into the corresponding end faces of the first side wall section 3 is rounded. The transition from the recess 13 to the corresponding end faces of the second side wall section 4 is designed with curves. As a result, a suitably designed tool 100 with a spring-shaped or pin-shaped projection 113 (see, for example, FIG. 10B) can be used to produce an at least partially positive connection between the tool 100 and the clamp 1 in a simple manner. In other words, a defined and simplified guiding, preferably positioning, of the tool 100 to the clamp 1 is ensured by forming such a tongue and groove connection 12, 113.

The recess 12 and the recess 13 are arranged in the middle or centered with respect to the first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 . As a result, together with a preferably more or less symmetrical design of the terminal 1, the tool 100 can also be rotated through 180° and placed on the terminal 1 in order to insert the electrical conductor 2 into the terminal 1 for connection to the terminal 1, i.e. in to guide the clamping slots 6 of the clamp 1.

Furthermore, the first side wall section 3 has a recess 14 with a rectangular cross section and the second side wall section 4 has a recess 15 with a rectangular cross section.

The first clamping element 7 and the second clamping element 8, analogously to the further first clamping element 16 and the further second clamping element 17, each also have a projection 9, 10 in order to form a stop and thus a limitation for the electrical conductor 2 in the terminal 1 .

As already briefly mentioned above, the direction or extension and thus the position of the connected or to be connected electrical conductor 2 in or on the terminal 1, preferably in the connection sections 11, is marked with the double arrow marked with “X”.

Figure 1B shows a side view of the embodiment of the clamp 1 shown in Figure 1A. From this it can be seen that the first clamping element 7 and the further first clamping element 16 are connected to the first side wall section 3 via the wall sections of the holding elements 18, preferably are integrally connected to one another in one piece. The wall sections of the holding elements 18 preferably have contact surfaces 19 for a tool 100 to be placed on the clamp 1 on the end face directed towards the web 5, which will be described in more detail below.

FIG. 1B also shows that the recess 12 (and the recess 13) has a funnel-shaped contour in this view.

Figure 1C shows a front view of the embodiment of the clamp 1 shown in Figures 1A and 1B.

In the front view shown in FIG. 1C, the clamping slot 6 has a substantially V-shaped contour at least in sections, that is to say in the entry area of the clamping slot 6 .

It is possible for the clamp 1, i.e. the first clamping element 7 and/or the second clamping element 8, to have a cutting edge at least in sections in the region of the essentially V-shaped contour for further cutting at least in sections of the electrical conductor 2. This can also apply to the additional first clamping element 16 and/or the additional second clamping element 17 .

The connection section 11 for connecting the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1 has a substantially oval or curved contour in the view shown in FIG. 1C. As a result, for example, electrical conductors 2 of different sizes, ie different diameters, can be accommodated in the terminal 1 and connected to the terminal 1.

The clamping slot 6 of the clamp 1 is for receiving or connecting an electrical conductor 2 to the clamp 1 through the first clamping element 7 and the second clamping element 8 and the further first clamping element 16 and the further second clamping element 17 from one direction only, i.e. on open or accessible at one end. In other words, the electrical conductor 2 can only be guided into the terminal 1 via the essentially V-shaped section of the clamping slot 6 . As already explained, the further first clamping element 16 and the further second clamping element 17 form a connection section 11 and thus a second connection area for the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1 analogously to the first clamping element 7 and the second clamping element 8 .

Figure ID shows a top view of the embodiment of the clamp 1 shown in Figures 1A to 1C.

In this view, the terminal 1 has an essentially rectangular contour with rounded corners.

Also clearly visible are the clamping slots 6 formed by the clamping elements 7 and 8 as well as 16 and 17 as well as the web 5 of the clamp 1.

FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 for producing a connection of an electrical conductor 2 with a sheathing 20 (see, for example, FIG. 4C) to a terminal 1 (not shown in FIG. 2A).

The tool 100 can be configured and/or designed, for example, as a hand-operated tool 100 or also as a tool 100 operated by a robot.

The tool 100 includes a guide frame 101. The guide frame 101 has a U-shaped configuration with a web area and opposing leg areas. A carriage unit 102 is located within the guide frame 101. The carriage unit 102 is mounted on the guide frame 101 so that it can move, preferably in a translatory manner, in order to guide the electrical conductor 2 into the terminal 1. The carriage unit 102 is actuated by a plunger element 115 which is cylindrical. The stamping element 115 is operatively connected to the carriage unit 102 via a through hole in the web area of the guide frame 101. The direction of movement of the carriage unit 102 on the tool 100 is identified by a double arrow marked “Y”.

A total of four locking elements 103 are pivotably and preferably releasably pivotably mounted on the guide frame 101, ie the leg regions of the guide frame 101. The storage takes place by means of appropriately designed bearing bolts 111. The bearing bolts 111 accommodate bearing sections of the locking elements 103 in order to preferably form plain bearing connections. The locking elements 103 can preferably be secured on the bearing bolts 111 against displacement in the axial direction, i.e. in the direction of the bearing bolts 111, and thus against loosening from the bearing bolts 111, for example by means of a screw connection arranged or formed on the end face of the bearing bolts 111 .

The locking elements 103 are designed in the form of a lever or gripping arm. The locking elements 103 each have a hook section 106 at the end which is opposite the bearing by means of bearing bolts 111 . The hook section 106 is designed at least in sections to correspond to the configuration and/or design of the terminal 1 in order to ensure a positive connection with the terminal 1, preferably during the connection of the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1.

On the bearing sections of the locking elements 103, projections 103A running obliquely are provided, at least in sections, with corresponding active surfaces, which lie outside the pivot axis of the locking elements 103 in order to be able to actuate them by the carriage unit 102 (see preferably Figures 12A and 12B). Furthermore, the locking elements 103 have sliding surfaces along their lever-shaped extension, at least in sections.

The carriage unit 102 is coupled to or with two locking elements 103 on each side of the tool 100 in order to actuate them. The coupling is effected by actuating elements 117 of the carriage unit 117 in a cylindrical configuration, which preferably contact the above-mentioned surfaces of the locking elements 103 and thus bring about a pivoting movement of the locking elements 103 about the respective bearing bolts 111 by moving the carriage unit 102. A further description can be found below with reference to FIGS. 12A and 12B.

Furthermore, the tool 100 shown in FIG. 2A comprises cutting elements 107 pivotably mounted on the guide frame 101, which are explained in more detail below with reference to further figures.

FIG. 2B shows a side view of the embodiment of the tool shown in FIG. 2A

100 The locking elements 103 are shown in the unfolded state, ie pivoted outwards away from the guide frame 101 . The actuating members 117 of the carriage unit 102 contact with respective projections 103A of the locking members 103. The carriage unit 102 is in a home position.

The contact area of the tool 100 for at least partially contacting the clamp 1 with the pivotably mounted cutting elements 107 is clearly visible.

Figure 2C shows a front view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 2A.

In order to guide the electrical conductor 2 into the terminal 1, the carriage unit 102 comprises a conductor guide section 112 on the corresponding side facing the terminal 1. The conductor guide section 112 is arched for at least partially contacting the electrical conductor 2, as can be seen from the front view in Figure 2C becomes clear.

Furthermore, the leg regions of the U-shaped guide frame 101 can also be seen in this illustration, between which the carriage unit 102 is movably or displaceably arranged, ie is mounted.

Figure 3A shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figures 2A to 2C with a further embodiment of a clamp 1.

The terminal 1 is in this case contacted at least in sections by the tool 100 in the contact area of the tool 100 . In other words, the arrangement of tool 100 and clamp 1 forms a positive connection at least in sections. The tool 100 is located on that end face of the terminal 1 on which the electrical conductor 2 (see Figures 4A to 5C) is guided or applied to the / the terminal slot / s 6 of the terminal 1 to the electrical conductor 2 then connect terminal 1.

The carriage unit 102 and the locking elements 103 coupled to it are in a starting position in the unfolded state.

Figure 3B shows this state in a side view of the arrangement of the tool 100 with the

clamp 1 The clamp 1 is configured and/or designed to be adapted, at least in sections, to the tool 100 with the locking elements 103 .

The first contact of the tool 100 with the clamp 1 occurs when the tool 100 is placed on the clamp 1, preferably via the groove-like recess 12 and/or the groove-like recess 13 through a correspondingly designed section 113 on the tool 100. This is explained in more detail below.

The front view of tool 100 with clamp 1 shown in FIG. 3C shows that clamp 1 is configured somewhat differently in comparison to clamp 1 shown in FIGS. 1A to ID. In particular, in the case of the clamp 1 shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the projections 9, 10 of the first and second clamping elements 7, 8 form a longer section of the clamping slot 6 than in the previously illustrated exemplary embodiment of the clamp 1.

Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 3A with the clamp 1 and an electrical conductor 2 inserted into the tool 100.

Looking at the front view shown in Figure 4C, the electrical conductor 2 is designed as a sheathed conductor and includes a sheath 20 (sheath insulation), a filling insulation 21 and a stranded wire 22 accommodated therein. The stranded wire 22 comprises a plurality of individual wires and is preferably made of an electrically conductive material , For example, copper or a copper alloy, and is used to connect the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1 to establish an electrically conductive connection. The casing 20 and/or the filling insulation 21 is preferably formed from an insulating material.

The electrical conductor 2 penetrates the tool 100 and is located in a starting position AP above cutting elements 107, which are pivotably mounted on the tool 100 and are preferably detachable or exchangeable. In other words, the electrical conductor 2 is in front of a cutting process of the electrical conductor 2 that still has to be carried out in order to expose the stranded wire 22. The mounting of the cutting elements 107 is described with reference to the further FIGS. 7A to 8C. Figure 4B shows a side view of the embodiment of the tool shown in Figure 4A

100 and the clamp 1 with the electrical conductor 2 inserted into the tool 100.

FIG. 4C shows a front view of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 and the clamp 1 illustrated in FIG. into the clamping slot 6 and thus into the connection section 11 of the clamp 1.

Figure 5A shows a perspective view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 3A with the clamp 1 and an electrical conductor 2 connected to the clamp 1.

The electrical conductor 2 is in an end position EP, i.e. in a connection position on the terminal 1 and thus in the respective connection section 11 within the clamping slots 6 of the terminal 1. In comparison to the state of the tool 100 shown in Figures 4A to 4C , preferably state of the carriage unit 102, the carriage unit 102 has been moved along the link tracks 104 of the guide frame 101 in the direction of the clamp 1. By moving the carriage unit 102 and thus guiding the electrical conductor 2 from a starting position AP to an end position EP, the locking elements 103 coupled to the carriage unit 102 were simultaneously actuated via the two operating elements 117 of the carriage unit 102 .

The locking elements 103 were moved around the respective bearing bolts 111 to the tool 100 and thus to the clamp 1 as the carriage unit 102 moved along the guide frame 101, so that the wall sections of the holding elements 18 of the clamp 1 could be contacted and received at least in sections by the hook sections 106 of the locking elements 103 has taken place.

The bearings of the locking elements 103, the carriage unit 102 with its actuating elements 117 and the coupling of the carriage unit 102 to the locking elements 103 are preferably adapted to one another and/or configured and designed accordingly in such a way that the clamp 1 can be held by the hook sections 106 of the locking elements 103 already takes place or is given at a point in time before the electrical conductor 2 is brought to the cutting elements 107 by means of the carriage unit 102 for cutting at least in sections to be led. In other words, the locking elements 103 swivel at a very early point in time, i.e. after a short distance of the carriage unit 102, in the direction of the clamp 1 in order to hold it on the correspondingly provided holding elements 18 by means of the hook sections 106 of the locking elements 103 (see for example the illustration in FIG. 6A with the corresponding position of the carriage unit 102 on the guide frame 101 and the actuating element 117 on the three visible locking elements 103).

Preferably, a more or less closed power flow is formed between the terminal 1, the electrical conductor 2 and the tool 100. The introduction of mechanical loads, for example compressive forces, into a circuit board or printed circuit board, to which the terminal 1 can be attached, for example, can thus be avoided or at least significantly reduced.

Figure 5B shows a side view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 5A with the terminal 1 and the electrical conductor 2 connected to the terminal 1.

The hook sections 106 of the locking elements 103 which are placed against the clamp 1, i.e. against the wall sections of the holding elements 18 or are in contact with them, are clearly visible.

The electrical conductor 2 is preferably guided by the conductor guide sections 112 of the carriage unit 102 , preferably pushed or pressed into the clamping slots 6 of the clamp 1 .

Figure 5C shows a front view of the embodiment of the tool 100 and the clamp 1 shown in Figure 5A with the electrical conductor 2 connected to the clamp 1.

Compared to the representations in FIGS. 3C and 4C, the electrical conductor 2 is now integrated in the receiving sections 11 to form the connection to the terminal 1 (end position EP) and is held by the respective clamping elements 7, 8 and 16, 17.

FIG. 5C also shows the design of the punch unit 115 for actuating the carriage unit 102, which includes a hexagon screw head and a threaded spindle. In this case, the threaded spindle converts rotational movements of the stamping unit 115 into a linear, ie translatory movement of the carriage unit 102 . The stamp unit 115 can be driven by an electric motor, for example. Alternatively, the carriage unit 102 and thus the tool 100 can also be actuated manually (with a corresponding key), for example. FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 illustrated in FIG. 2A. A locking element 103 is not illustrated for the purpose of more detailed illustration.

The cutting elements 107, which are mounted detachably and pivotably on the guide frame 101, are clearly visible for at least partially cutting, i.e. cutting through the insulation of the electrical conductor 2 before it is guided into the clamping slots 6 of the terminal 1 for connection to the terminal 1.

FIG. 6B shows an enlarged area of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 illustrated in FIG. 6A. The area in which a cutting element 107 is mounted on the guide frame 101 is preferably illustrated. The cutting element 107 is attached or can be attached to a bearing pin 111 and is thus pivotably mounted about the bearing pin 111 . The bearing pin 111 in turn is held by a projection 101A of the guide frame 101, preferably by forming a plug-in connection, by means of which the bearing pin 111 is inserted through a bore on the projection 101A. The cutting element 107 comprises a recess 107A along the bearing on the bearing pin 111, which is configured and/or designed to receive the projection 101A of the guide frame 101 at least in sections, so that the cutting element 107 is secured in the direction of the bearing pin 111 and thus in the axial direction .

A spiral spring 108 is also located on the bearing pin 111 between the projection 101A and the cutting element 107. The spiral spring 108 is supported on the one hand on the guide frame 101 and on the other hand on the cutting element 107. The spiral spring 108 applies a pretension to the cutting element 107, so that if the cutting element 107 pivots outwards about the bearing pin 111, the cutting element 107 is returned to its original position on the guide frame 101, i.e. to a corresponding stop on the guide frame 101.

The position of the cutting element 107 in relation to the guide frame 101 and thus also in relation to the carriage unit 102 and the electrical conductor 2 can be variably adjusted by means of a screw connection 110 , preferably using a grub screw on the cutting element 107 . Thus, the cutting element 107 can be adjusted individually and relatively easily for electrical conductors 2 of different sizes, that is to say different diameters of the jacket insulation 20 .

Due to the detachable pivot mounting of the cutting element 107, the cutting element 107 can also be used against another cutting element 107 with a different configuration (e.g. in regarding cutting angle, cutting edge, size, cutting depth). Thus, for example, electrical conductors 2 of different sizes can also be taken into account.

FIG. 7A shows a further perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 illustrated in FIG. 6A, wherein a locking element 103 has been omitted to illustrate the cutting element 107 in more detail and is therefore not illustrated.

A projection 113 of the guide frame 101 in the form of a spring-shaped or pin-like section on the guide frame 101 is also visible in this illustration.

The projection 113 is configured and/or designed in such a way that it can dip or engage in a form-fitting manner at least in sections in the groove-like recess 12 of the clamp 1 in order, for example, to optimally position the tool 100 in relation to the clamp 1 or to guide it in order to be placed on the clamp 1. This ensures, for example, that the electrical conductor 2 is connected to the terminal 1 quickly and easily. Tool 100 is always in a defined position or in contact with terminal 1.

Figure 7B shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of tool 100 shown in Figure 7A.

The cutting element 107 is, as already described above, slipped or can be slipped onto the bearing bolt 111 and pivoted about it. A section of the cutting element 107 includes the screw connection 110 with the grub screw, which has also already been described, and which makes contact with a stop on the guide frame 101 in order to be able to adjust the cutting element 107 with regard to its positioning or arrangement in relation to the guide frame 101 and thus to an electrical conductor 2.

The spring-shaped or pin-like projection 113 of the guide frame 101 is also clearly visible in this figure.

Figure 7C shows a perspective view of the cutting element of Figure 7B. The cutting element 107 is preferably wedge-shaped and therefore includes, in addition to a cutting edge, a section that widens from the cutting edge in order to at least partially cut the sheathing 20 of the electrical conductor 2 to expose the wire, the individual wire or the To push strand 22 of the electrical conductor 2 apart or to press and prepare for the connection process of the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1.

FIG. 8A shows a plan view of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 illustrated in FIG. 2A. Screw connections 110 can be seen through bores in the web area of the guide frame 101, the purpose of which is described in more detail below with reference to further figures. The stamping element 115 has a hexagonal head for actuating the carriage unit 102 .

Figure 8B shows a sectional view (section A-A in Figure 8A) of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 8A.

The first opposed pair of cutting elements 107 is shown in sectional view. As already described, each cutting element 107 is mounted in a detachable and pivotable manner via a respective bearing pin 111 . The cutting elements 107 are attached to the bearing bolts 111 . The bearing pins 111 are in turn fastened or mounted at least in sections on projections 101A of the guide frame 101 . The cutting elements 107 are designed to be adjustable in terms of their position and/or their angle on the guide frame 101 via the screw connections 110, which include grub screws that make contact with a section of the guide frame 101 that serves as a stop.

FIG. 8C shows an enlarged area of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 shown in a sectional view in FIG. 8B.

The grub screws of the screw connection 110, which contact a stop of the guide frame 101, are clearly visible. Furthermore, it can be seen from FIG. 8C that a region of the recess 107A of the cutting element 107 lies behind the projection 101A of the guide frame 101 in the direction of the bearing pin 111 . This ensures that the cutting element 107 is secured in the direction of the bearing pin 111 and thus in the axial direction. In addition, the cross section of a section of the spiral spring 108 can be seen, which is preferably supported on the guide frame 101, i.e. the shoulder 101B of the guide frame 101, in order to be able to return the cutting element 107 to a starting position or stop position by applying force to the cutting element 107. The shoulder 101B serves as a limit for the clip 1 on the opposite side to that on which the coil spring 108 contacts the guide frame 101 and will be described in more detail below. The shoulder 101B includes at least a section of a chamfer 101C, which is intended to facilitate the process of placing or attaching the tool 100 to the terminal 1 for contacting.

Figure 9A shows, analogously to Figure 8A, a top view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 2A.

Figure 9B shows a sectional view (section A-A in Figure 9A) of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 9A.

Between the carriage unit 102 and the web area of the guide frame 101 the stamping element 115 with the threaded spindle for actuating, ie moving the carriage unit 102 is arranged. The threaded spindle is preferably located within the leg areas of the guide frame 101.

The carriage unit 102 comprises two stop elements 116. The stop element 116 is arranged within the guide frame 101 and on that side of the carriage unit 102 which is assigned to the clamp 1. The stop element 116 can be adjusted in its position relative to the carriage unit 102 by means of a screw connection 110 . The screw connection 110 can, for example, comprise a flat-head screw on which the stop element 116 is arranged.

The stop element 116 makes contact at least in sections with the terminal 1 (not shown in Figure 9B), i.e. preferably a face on that face of the terminal 1 on which the electrical conductor 2 is guided or placed on the terminal slot 6 for connection to the terminal 1.

The adjustability of the stop element 116 in relation to the carriage unit 102 means that a defined position of the carriage unit 102 and thus a defined end position of the electrical conductor 2 can be achieved at the desired point or in the desired area in the connection section 11 of the terminal 1. FIG. 9B also clearly shows the mounting of spiral springs 108 on the bearing bolts 111 for applying a pretension to the cutting elements 107.

Figure 9C shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 9B in sectional view.

Here, the stop element 116 is graphically highlighted, which is essentially cylindrical and is arranged at the end of a threaded bolt of a flat-head screw 110 . The stop element 116 can be formed from a plastic material, for example.

The screw connection 110 with the flat-head screw is accommodated in the carriage unit 102 and can be adjusted or adjusted in relation to it.

In addition, a section of a link track 104, on which the carriage unit 102 is slidably mounted and can therefore slide along, is shown. The guide track 104 is preferably formed integrally in one piece with the guide frame 101 .

Figure 10A shows a perspective view of the embodiment of tool 100 shown in Figure 3A without carriage unit 102, but with contacted, i.e. held, terminal 1.

Figure 10B shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of tool 100 shown in Figure 10A with clip 1 received.

The positive connection, at least in sections, between the spring-shaped or pin-shaped projection 113 of the guide frame 101 and the groove-shaped recess 12 of the clamp 1, in which the projection 113 engages in the recess 12, is clearly visible.

Furthermore, the detachable attachment of the clamp 1 to the tool 100 by the hook section 106 of a locking element 103, which at least partially contacts and/or encompasses a holding element 18 of the clamp 1, can be seen.

The terminal 1 is thus held by the tool 100, so preferably during the connection of the electrical conductor 2 to the terminal 1, that is, during the connection process Formation of an electrically conductive connection between the electrical conductor 2 and the terminal 1, no or at least negligible loads are transmitted via the terminal 1 to, for example, a printed circuit board to which the terminal 1 is attached.

Figure 11A shows a further plan view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 3A without carriage unit 102, but with clamp 1.

Figure 11B shows a sectional view (section A-A in Figure 11A) of the embodiment of tool 100 with clamp 1 shown in Figure 11A.

FIG. 11C shows an enlarged portion of the sectional view of the embodiment of tool 100 shown in FIG. The side wall sections 3, 4 are sectionally accommodated in corresponding shoulders 101B, preferably folds 101B, of the guide frame 101. The shoulders 101B are arranged opposite to each other on the guide frame 101 and are configured and/or formed in accordance with the clamp 1.

For receiving the terminal 1, each step 101B has a chamfer 101C on an inner portion, that is, a portion directed toward the terminal 1 to be received. Thus, an improved or easier attachment of the tool 100 to the clamp 1 can be achieved. Alternatively, a rounding can be provided instead of the chamfer 101C.

Figure HD shows a sectional view (section B-B in Figure 11A) of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 11A with expanded clamp 1, i.e. enlarged clamp slot 6.

In FIG. 11D, the clamp 1 is shown in a state in which the electrical conductor 2 (not shown in FIG. 11B for reasons of more detailed illustration) can be guided or is being guided into the clamping slot 6.

Figure 11E shows an enlarged area of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 11D in a sectional view with an expanded terminal 1. This graphically highlighted representation shows that the terminal 1 is guided on its end face, on which the electrical conductor 2 is guided to the terminal slot 6 or is created, at least in sections with the paragraphs 101B contacted or limited by the ledges 101B with respect to expansion. In other words, the first side wall section 3 and the second side wall section 4 are limited in their spring-elastic movement possibilities by the shoulders 101B of the guide frame 101 . This prevents, for example, the terminal 1 from plastically deforming during the connection process of the electrical conductor 2, since the terminal 1 is prevented from widening too much.

Figure 12A shows a perspective view of the tool 100 shown in Figure 3A with clamp 1. Figure 12B shows an enlarged portion of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 12A with clamp 1.

FIG. 12B shows the coupling of the locking element 103, which is pivotably and preferably detachably mounted on the guide frame 101 via a bearing pin 111. The ability of the locking element 103 to pivot about the bearing pin 111 is shown with a double arrow in FIG. 12B for more detailed illustration.

The locking member 103 has an inclined projection 103A adjacent to the lever-shaped portion of the locking member 103 with its sliding contact surface for the operating member 117 . The projection 103A is arranged at a distance from the bearing pin 111 and thus from the pivot axis of the locking element 103 . By actuating, ie contacting the projection 103A with the actuating element 117, a force and thus a torque can be introduced into the locking element 103, which pivots the locking element 103 away from the tool 100 and thus releases a clamp 1 that is being held.

It is possible for bearing bolt 111 to form a screw connection 110 with guide frame 101 at least in sections (not shown in Figures 12A and 12B), i.e. to have an external thread at least in sections so that it can be fastened in a corresponding internal thread on guide frame 101. It is also possible for the bearing pin 111 to additionally have a cylindrical head section with a correspondingly larger diameter in order to mount or secure the locking element 103 on the bearing pin 111 in the axial direction, ie in the longitudinal direction of the bearing pin 111 . In the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 illustrated in FIG. 12B, the bearing bolt 111 can be detachably fastened to the guide frame 101 by means of a slotted screwdriver in order to form a screw connection. In this case, the locking element 103 is already arranged on the bearing pin 111 .

Figure 13A shows a plan view of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 3A without carriage unit 102, but with clamp 1. Figure 13B shows a sectional view (section AA in Figure 13A) of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 13A with clamp 1.

The recess 13 of the clamp 1 visible in this view partially contacts the peg-shaped projection 113 of the guide frame 101 (this also applies to the recess 12 of the clamp 1--see, for example, FIG. 10B). Furthermore, the clamp 1 is held on the tool 100 by means of the locking elements 103 which make contact with the holding elements 18 of the clamp 1 .

The clamp 1 is thus releasably fastened or held on the tool 100 so that loads occurring, preferably compressive forces, occur during the connection of the electrical conductor 2 to the clamp 1 predominantly only within the system tool 100, electrical conductor 2 and clamp 1.

FIG. 13C shows an enlarged area of the exemplary embodiment of the tool 100 with clamp 1 illustrated in FIG. 13B in a sectional view.

The chamfer 106A is formed on the area of the hook section 106 facing the contact surface 19 of the holding element 18 so that an improved contacting process of the locking element 103 with the terminal 1 can take place.

The hook section 106 also includes a rounded portion 106A in sections, which extends along the area of the hook section 106 which can contact the wall section of the holding element 18 (partially visible in FIG. 13C), which adjoins the second side wall section 4. The rounding 106A preferably also allows the clamp 1 to widen in a certain area. The clamp 1 can thus be optimally held by the locking element 103 of the tool 100 .

Figure 14A shows a plan view of the embodiment of tool 100 shown in Figure 3A with clamp 1. Figure 14B shows a sectional view (section A-A in Figure 14A) of the embodiment of tool 100 shown in Figure 14A with clamp 1.

The carriage unit 102 is shown in an initial position so that the electrical conductor 2 can be inserted into the tool 100 between the carriage unit 102, ie the conductor guide section 112 and the cutting elements 107.

In addition, an arrow shows the movement of the carriage unit 102 and preferably the stop element 116 on the carriage unit 102 in the direction of the clamp 1, on which the stop element 116 then makes contact, at least in sections, with an end face of the clamp 1 and thus the carriage unit 102 in its mobility along of the guide frame 101 adjustably limited. The adjustability can preferably take place depending on the configuration and/or design of the terminal 1 and/or the electrical conductor 2 to be connected.

Figure 14C shows another sectional view (section B-B in Figure 14A) of the embodiment of tool 100 with clamp 1 shown in Figure 14A.

The stamping element 115 comprises a hexagonal screw head which is arranged outside of the guide frame 101, ie on the web area of the guide frame 101 and which is detachably fastened to a threaded spindle via a screw connection 110 . The threaded spindle in turn forms a screw connection 110 with the carriage unit 102 . By rotating the hexagon screw head and thus the threaded spindle of the punch unit 115, this rotary movement is converted into a linear, ie translational movement of the carriage unit 102. As already described above, the carriage unit 102 is slidably mounted on the guide frame 101 and configured accordingly for guiding the electrical conductor 2 into the terminal 1 to form a connection, ie an electrically conductive connection.

Figure 14D shows a perspective view of the punch element 115 of the embodiment of the tool 100 shown in Figure 3A. The hexagon screw head for actuating or rotating the plunger element 115 is releasably attached to the threaded spindle by means of a screw connection 110 in the form of a grub screw. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above. Rather, a large number of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the idea of the invention and therefore fall within the scope of protection. Preferably, the invention also claims protection for the subject-matter and features of the subclaims independently of the claims referred to.

Reference List

1 clamp

2 electrical conductors

3 first sidewall section

4 second sidewall section

5 jetty

6 clamping slot

7 first clamping element

8 second clamping element

9 lead

10 lead

11 connection section

12 recess

13 recess

14 recess

15 recess

16 further first clamping element

17 further second clamping element

18 holding element

19 contact surface

20 sheath

21 fill insulation

22 core, single wire, stranded

23 fixing plug

100 tool

101 guide frame

101A protrusion

101B paragraph

101C chamfer, fillet

102 carriage unit

103 locking element

103A protrusion

104 slide track

105 sliding block 106 hook section

106A fillet, chamfer

107 cutting element

107A recess 108 spiral spring

110 screw connection, screw

111 bearing pin

112 wire routing section

113 projection 115 stamping element

116 stop element

117 actuator

AP Starting position of the electrical conductor (loading position)

D3 wall thickness of the first side wall section D4 wall thickness of the second side wall section

EP End position of the electrical conductor (connection position)

X Direction/course of the electrical conductor in the terminal

Y Direction of movement of the carriage unit/stamp element

Claims

CLAIMS Clamp (1) for connecting an electrical conductor (2) with a sheath (20), the clamp (1) having a first side wall section (3) preferably extending in the direction of the connected electrical conductor (2) or the electrical conductor to be connected and a second side wall section (4) which are arranged opposite one another and/or at a distance from one another, the first side wall section (3) having a first clamping element (7) and the second side wall section (4) having a second clamping element (8), which are used to form a clamping slot (6) are associated with one another and are spaced apart from one another at least in sections, with the first side wall section (3) on its front side and preferably the second side wall section (4) on its front side, on which the electrical conductor (2) is connected to the clamping slot (6) for the Connection to the terminal (1) is performed, each having a recess (12, 13) which is groove-shaped to in the Recess (12, 13) to receive a tool (100) applied to the clamp (1) in a form-fitting manner, at least in sections. Clamp (1) according to claim 1, wherein the recess (12, 13) extends along the wall thickness (D3) of the first side wall section (3) and/or along the wall thickness (D4) of the second side wall section (4). Clamp (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the recess (12, 13) of the first and/or the second side wall section (3, 4) has a funnel-shaped contour at least in sections in a view, preferably in a side view of the clamp (1). and/or has an arcuate and/or round contour. Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recess (12) of the first side wall section (3) is arranged centered with respect to the first side wall section (3) and/or the recess (13) of the second side wall section (4) with respect is arranged centered on the second side wall section (4). Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims,

39 wherein the first clamping element (7) and the second clamping element (8) form at least one connection section (11) for connecting the electrical conductor (2), the at least one connection section (11) in a view, preferably in a side view, in the direction of the connected or the electrical conductor (2) to be connected, has a substantially round contour or a substantially oval contour.

6. Terminal (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping slot (6) in a view, preferably in a side view in the direction of the connected or to be connected electrical conductor (2), at least partially has a V-shaped contour, which preferably merges into the contour of at least one connecting section (11).

7. Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side wall section (3) and the second side wall section (4) are connected to one another via a common web (5) and preferably the first side wall section (3), the second side wall section (4 ) and the web (5) are U-shaped in a view, preferably in a sectional view in the direction of the connected or to be connected electrical conductor (2).

8. Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side wall section (3) and/or the first clamping element (7) and/or the second side wall section (4) and/or the second clamping element (8) is at least partially plate-shaped and / or is flat.

9. Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side wall section (3) comprises a further first clamping element (16) and the second side wall section (4) comprises a further second clamping element (17), which are used to form a further clamping slot (6 ) associated with each other and are arranged at least partially spaced from each other.

10. Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side wall section (3) and/or the second side wall section (4) has at least one holding element (18) on an end face opposite the end face with the recess (12, 13). for forming an operative connection with a tool (100) applied to the clamp (1).

40 Clamp (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the clamp (1) is formed from a metallic material, preferably integrally in one piece, preferably by at least one bending process and/or stamping process. Tool (100), preferably application tool (100), for connecting an electrical conductor (2) with a sheath (20) to a terminal (1) with at least one holding element (18) and at least one groove-shaped recess (12, 13). an end face on which the electrical conductor (2) is guided to the clamping slot (6) of the clamp (1) for connection to the clamp (1), preferably to a clamp (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the Tool (100) comprises a guide frame (101), which is configured and designed at least in sections for contacting the clamp (1), preferably at least the at least one recess (12, 13), and a carriage unit (102) which is attached to the Guide frame (101) for guiding the electrical conductor (2) into the terminal (1) is movably mounted, the guide frame (101) having at least one locking element (103) which is pivotably mounted and the carriage unit (102) for actuating ung of the at least one locking element (103) is slidably coupled to the at least one locking element (103) in order to hold the at least one locking element (103) with the at least one holding element at least in sections while the electrical conductor (2) is being guided into the terminal (1). (18) of the clamp (1) to engage. Tool (100) according to claim 12, wherein the guide frame (101) in the contact area for at least partially contacting the clamp (1), preferably the at least one groove-shaped recess (12, 13), at least one spring-shaped or pin-like section (113), preferably a projection , having. The tool (100) according to Claim 12 or 13, wherein the guide frame (101) has at least one cutting element (107) in order to cut the sheathing (20) of the electrical conductor (2) at least in sections and preferably before the electrical conductor (2) is guided in to cut the clamp (1), the at least one cutting element (107) preferably being mounted detachably and/or pivotably.

41

15. The tool (100) according to claim 14, wherein the at least one cutting element (107) can be attached or attached to a bearing bolt (111), wherein at least one recess (107 A) of the at least one cutting element (107) has a projection (101 A) of the Guide frame (101), which supports the bearing pin (111) in sections, receives.

16. Tool (100) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the at least one cutting element (107) is configured and designed, preferably at least in sections wedge-shaped or pyramid-shaped and configured and designed, the sheathing (20) of the electrical conductor (2) at the cut Place or at the cut area to push apart.

17. Tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 14 to 16, wherein the at least one cutting element (107) is subjected to a pretension, preferably by a spiral spring (108), and/or is adjustable, preferably by means of a screw connection (110), is arranged.

18. Tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 17, wherein the carriage unit (102) is displaceably mounted on the guide frame (101) by means of a link guide (104, 105), with preferably two link tracks (104) on the guide frame ( 102) are arranged or formed and two sliding blocks (105) are arranged or formed on the carriage unit (102).

19. Tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 18, wherein the carriage unit (102) comprises at least one stop element (116) for contacting the clamp (1) and preferably the at least one stop element (116) in its position relative to the carriage unit ( 102) is adjustable.

20. The tool (100) according to claim 19, wherein the at least one stop element (116) comprises a screw connection (110), a threaded screw (110) with a stop buffer (116) preferably being provided to contact the clamp (1) at least in sections , Preferably in a connection position of the electrical conductor (2) to the terminal (1).

21. Tool (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 12 to 20, wherein the guide frame (101) has at least one shoulder (101B), preferably at least one fold (101B), in the contact area for at least partially contacting the clamp (1), which forms a stop to preferably prevent plastic deformation of the clamp (1) during to prevent the connection of the electrical conductor (2) to the terminal (1). Tool (100) according to claim 21, wherein the at least one step (101B) has a chamfer (101C) or a rounding (101C) at least in sections. Tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 22, wherein the at least one locking element (103) has a hook section (106) in order to at least partially encompass the clamp (1) on the at least one holding element (18), the Hook section (106) has a chamfer (106A) or a rounding (106A) at least in sections. Tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 23, wherein the carriage unit (102) comprises an actuating element (117) via which the carriage unit (102) is coupled to or with the at least one locking element (103), wherein preferably the Actuating element (117) is at least partially cylindrical or bolt-shaped and/or forms a plain bearing connection with the at least one locking element (103). Tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 24, wherein the pivot axis of the at least one cutting element (107) and the pivot axis of the at least one locking element (103) are substantially perpendicular to one another in a view, preferably in a plan view. Method for connecting an electrical conductor (2) with a sheath (20) to a terminal (1) with at least one clamping slot (6), at least one holding element (18) and at least one groove-shaped recess (12, 13) on a front side, on which the electrical conductor (2) is guided to the clamping slot (6) of the clamp (1) for connection to the clamp (1), preferably with a tool (100) according to one of the preceding claims 12 to 25, comprising: • Placing the tool (100) on the clamp (1), preferably on the end faces of at least two opposite side wall sections (3, 4) of the clamp (1) spaced apart from the at least one clamping slot (6), each of which has the at least one groove-shaped have recess;

• At least in sections forming a positive connection between the at least one recess (12, 13) and the tool (100);

• Insertion of the electrical conductor (2) in the tool (100);

• Attachment of at least one pivotally mounted locking element (103) of

tool (100) to the clamp (1), preferably to the at least one holding element (18), by means of the carriage unit (102) and holding the clamp (1), preferably by the at least one pivotally mounted locking element (103);

• Leading the electrical conductor (2) to and / or at least partially in the

Area of the at least one clamping slot (6) by means of a slide unit (103) of the tool (100);

• Guide the electrical conductor (2) in the region of a connection section (11) of the at least one clamping slot (6) and establish the connection between the electrical conductor (2) and the terminal (1). The method of claim 26, further comprising:

• guiding the electrical conductor (2) to at least one cutting element (107) of the tool (100) by means of the carriage unit (103);

• At least partially cutting the sheathing (20) of the electrical conductor

(2) at a location or area to be connected to the clamp (1) by means of the at least one cutting element (107); The method of claim 27, further comprising:

• pushing apart the sheathing (20) of the electrical conductor (2) at the point cut at least in sections or at the area cut at least in sections by means of the at least one cutting element (107); Arrangement comprising a clamp (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to

11 and a tool (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 12 to 25.

44