EP3772777B1 - Connection device for connecting an electrical line - Google Patents

Connection device for connecting an electrical line Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3772777B1
EP3772777B1 EP20189342.7A EP20189342A EP3772777B1 EP 3772777 B1 EP3772777 B1 EP 3772777B1 EP 20189342 A EP20189342 A EP 20189342A EP 3772777 B1 EP3772777 B1 EP 3772777B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
rocker
contact
leg
contact element
electrical line
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP20189342.7A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3772777A1 (en
Inventor
Jens Andresen
Heinz Reibke
Kevin Berghahn
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
Original Assignee
Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG filed Critical Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
Publication of EP3772777A1 publication Critical patent/EP3772777A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3772777B1 publication Critical patent/EP3772777B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
    • H01R4/48—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member
    • H01R4/4809—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar
    • H01R4/48185—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar adapted for axial insertion of a wire end
    • H01R4/4819—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar adapted for axial insertion of a wire end the spring shape allowing insertion of the conductor end when the spring is unbiased
    • H01R4/4821—Single-blade spring
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
    • H01R4/48—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member
    • H01R4/4809—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar
    • H01R4/4811—Spring details
    • H01R4/4814—Self-latching arrangements
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/28—Clamped connections, spring connections
    • H01R4/48—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member
    • H01R4/4809—Clamped connections, spring connections utilising a spring, clip, or other resilient member using a leaf spring to bias the conductor toward the busbar
    • H01R4/4828—Spring-activating arrangements mounted on or integrally formed with the spring housing
    • H01R4/4833—Sliding arrangements, e.g. sliding button

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a connection device for connecting an electrical line according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a connection device includes a housing that has a plug-in opening for plugging in an electrical line.
  • An electrical contact element is arranged in the housing and can be moved from an open position into a contacting position relative to the housing in order to make electrical contact in the contacting position with an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening.
  • connection devices it is desirable to enable easy connection of an electrical line. It can be advantageous here that when an electrical line is plugged in, the connection device closes automatically, i.e. the contact element is automatically transferred from the open position to the contacting position in order to make safe and reliable contact with the electrical line plugged into the plug-in opening of the housing.
  • Such automatic triggering should not only be possible with a comparatively rigid electrical line, for example with a ferrule arranged on an electrical line, but also with an electrical line that is inserted into the plug-in opening of the housing with comparatively little insertion force.
  • connection device to be delivered in its open position in order to enable direct connection of an electrical line within the framework of intended use.
  • the contact element of the connection device should not be triggered, if possible, even in the event of a shock effect or vibrations.
  • the DE 198 25 629 B4 discloses a spring-loaded terminal with a clamping body arranged in a connection space, which is held in a prestressed position before the insertion of an electrical conductor with one end of the conductor into the connection space and is released after the insertion of the conductor into the connection space.
  • an insulating housing has a conductor terminal device which has a stationary contact element arranged in the insulating housing and a sliding part arranged in the insulating housing so that it can be moved between a conductor insertion position and a clamping position by means of a guide means.
  • the sliding part is moved into the clamped position in order to contact the electrical conductor with the connection terminal.
  • U1 known connecting device is a contact leg of a leg spring forming a contact element latched in an open position with a support leg of the leg spring.
  • an electrical line interacts with the support leg and thus releases the latching of the contact leg, so that the connection device closes automatically when the electrical line is plugged in.
  • U1 known connecting device has a clamping spring on a clamping leg which can be latched in an open position via a latching device.
  • a spring-loaded terminal which has a clamping spring, the clamping spring having a clamping leg which can be pivoted about a pivot axis and which can be adjusted from a latched state in which it is latched in a latched position to a clamped state in which it is unlatched from the latched state and presses the electrical conductor against the busbar or the terminal cage.
  • the clamping leg can be released from the locked state with two different adjustment means.
  • the DE 30 19 149 A1 discloses a spring clamp with a latching element arranged in a connection chamber, the clamping leg of the clamping spring being able to be locked by the latching element in the position lifted from the contact wall, and the locking being releasable after the electrical conductor has been inserted into the connection chamber by actuating a triggering element connected to the latching element is.
  • a spring-loaded terminal with a clamping spring is known, with the clamping spring having a clamping leg which can be pivoted about a pivot axis in a pivoting direction and which can be adjusted from a latched state in which it is latched to a holding means by moving the electrical conductor into a clamped state in which it can be Retaining means is unlocked and presses the electrical conductor against the busbar.
  • connection device for connecting an electrical line, which makes it possible to easily connect an electrical line when the connection device closes automatically, even with low insertion forces.
  • the connecting device has a rocker element which has a bearing head and a rocker leg extending from the bearing head.
  • the bearing head is tiltably mounted on a bearing section that is stationary relative to the housing.
  • the rocker element is designed to hold the contact element in the open position in a first tilted position.
  • the rocker element can be tilted from the first tilted position into a second tilted position by the action of the electrical line on the rocker leg when the electrical line is inserted into the plug-in opening, in order to release the contact element for transfer into the contacting position.
  • the contact element has at least one latching section which is latched in the open position by the rocker element.
  • the rocker element is mounted such that it can be tilted relative to the housing.
  • the rocker element is supported relative to the housing via the bearing head, so that the rocker element can be tilted about the bearing head in relation to the housing.
  • the rocker element serves to latch the contact element in a first tilted position in such a way that the contact element is held in its open position.
  • an electrical line can be inserted into the plug-in opening of the housing without this being prevented by the contact element, i.e. without the contact element protruding into the area of the plug-in opening and thus making it difficult or even blocking the insertion of the electrical line.
  • the electrical line When plugged into the plug-in opening, the electrical line interacts with the rocker arm of the rocker element, so that the rocker element is tilted from its first tilted position into the second tilted position.
  • the contact element is released by the tilting of the rocker element, so that the contact element can be transferred from the open position into the contacting position and the connection device can thus (automatically) close.
  • the contact element is held securely and reliably in the open position by the rocker element. This makes it possible in particular to deliver the connecting device in the open position, with automatic triggering of the connecting device being at least significantly more difficult, for example due to a shock effect or due to vibrations, when the connecting device is being transported.
  • the rocker element can be easily and inexpensively manufactured and mounted on the housing.
  • the rocker arm can provide a comparatively large lever arm, the rocker element can be tilted in a simple manner even with low insertion forces, for example in the case of an electrical cable without a ferrule attached to one end of the conductor, so that the connection device closes automatically and reliably, even with cables can take place, which act on the rocker element with a low insertion force.
  • the contact element is formed by a spring element.
  • a spring element can be formed by a leg spring (acting under pressure) or a tension spring (acting under tension via a tension leg).
  • the contact element can thus be elastically adjusted and deflected in order in particular to enable automatic closing of the connection device when an electrical line is plugged in.
  • the contact element has a support leg that is supported in a stationary manner relative to the housing and a contact leg that can be deflected in a resilient manner relative to the support leg for making contact with the electrical line.
  • the contact leg In the open position of the connecting device, the contact leg is latched via the rocker element.
  • the contact leg In the contacting position, on the other hand, the contact leg is in electrically contacting contact with the electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening of the housing, for example in contact with a current bar around a stripped conductor end of the line of the connection device and thus to electrically contact the line with the current bar.
  • the support leg can be connected to the contact leg, for example, via a curved connection section, the connection section being placed around a housing section of the housing, for example, and the support leg providing support relative to the housing.
  • the contact element is thus fixed to the housing via the support leg, with the contact leg being able to be deflected in an elastically resilient manner towards the support leg in order to adjust the contact element between the open position and the contacting position.
  • the contact leg is stretched elastically towards the support leg when the contact element is in the open position. In the open position, in which the contact leg latches via the rocker element and is thus held in position, the contact leg is thus spring-mechanically prestressed towards the support leg. If an electrical line acts on the rocker arm of the rocker element when it is inserted into the plug-in opening and the rocker element tilts as a result, the contact arm is released and automatically moves into the contacting position due to its spring-elastic tension in order to make contact with the electrical line inserted in the plug-in opening.
  • the rocker arm is advantageously arranged behind the contact arm, viewed along a plugging direction in which the electrical line is to be inserted into the plug-in opening, so that when it is plugged into the plug-in opening, the electrical line is first moved past the contact arm and then interacts with the rocker arm reaches, so that when the rocker element is triggered, the contact leg of the contact element can reliably come into contact with the electrical line plugged into the plug-in opening.
  • the rocker element can be tilted via its bearing head on a bearing section that is stationary relative to the housing.
  • the bearing section can, for example, be formed integrally on the contact element and formed, for example, by an end of the support leg.
  • the rocker element is mounted on the contact element and, upon interaction with an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening, can tilt toward the support leg in order to release the contact leg for transfer from the open position to the contacting position.
  • bearing section can also be connected to the contact element as an additional part.
  • the contact element has at least one latching section which is latched in the open position by the rocker element.
  • the latching section can be formed by a tab that protrudes from the contact leg and is bent over to form the contact leg, which is latched to the rocker element in the open position of the contact element.
  • a latching section can be formed on both sides of the contact leg, for example, so that a reliable, resilient latching can be established with the rocker element.
  • the at least one latching section rests in the open position on a support surface of the rocker element adjoining the bearing head.
  • the bearing head can be formed by support surfaces which extend at an acute angle to one another and are placed on the bearing section and thus provide a tiltable bearing of the rocker element with respect to the housing.
  • the at least one latching section of the contact element is in contact with one of the support surfaces in the open position, so that the contact element is held in the open position by it. If the rocker element is tilted from the first tilted position into the second tilted position, the at least one latching section can be raised (slightly), for example, and thereby moved over the bearing head of the rocker element, so that the contact element is transferred from the open position to the contacting position.
  • the contact leg which is elastically braced in the open position, can thereby be released and snap in the direction of the contacting position in contact with the electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening.
  • the contact element is formed as an integral, bent sheet metal part.
  • the contact element can be made from spring steel, for example, and can be designed, for example, as a stamped and bent part.
  • the contact element can be in the form of a torsion spring or a tension spring.
  • the contact element can also be composed of different individual parts.
  • the rocker element can be tilted relative to the housing about a tilting axis, which is directed perpendicularly to a plane along which the contact element can be adjusted between the open position and the contacting position.
  • the contact element is designed as a leg spring, for example, then the contact leg can be elastically deflected in a plane relative to the support leg and can therefore be moved along this plane to the support leg.
  • the tilting axis about which the rocker element can be tilted relative to the housing is directed perpendicularly to this plane, so that the rocker element can be tilted in the plane in which the contact element can also be adjusted.
  • the rocker element has a first rocker arm on a first side of the bearing head for interaction with the electrical line and a second rocker arm on a second side of the bearing head, facing away from the first side.
  • the second rocker arm arranged on the other, remote side can, for example, serve to interact with a stop section of the housing, so that the second rocker arm, for example, defines the second tilted position .
  • the rocker element cannot be tilted beyond the second tilted position in relation to the housing when the second rocker arm strikes the stop section which is stationary in relation to the housing.
  • the rocker element can advantageously be symmetrical in the plane perpendicular to the tilting axis.
  • the rocker legs of the rocker element can be of the same shape and can extend symmetrically from the bearing head in order to produce a form of symmetry.
  • the symmetry can be limited to a mass symmetry, in that the mass of the legs is balanced with respect to the bearing on the bearing section, in order to provide a mass-symmetrical rocker element.
  • the (shape or mass) symmetrical design has the advantage that vibration and shock-related forces on the rocker arm (e.g. during transport) are compensated and unintentional release of the clamp is made significantly more difficult.
  • rocker element is asymmetrically, for example with rocker arms of unequal length. It can be advantageous here, however, for the rocker element to have a balanced mass ratio around the bearing head for functional reasons of resistance to vibration and shock.
  • the connecting device has an actuating element, for example in the form of a push button mounted on the housing so that it can be displaced along an actuating direction, for acting on the contact element.
  • the actuating element can be used in particular to move the contact element from the contacting position into the open position, so that by actuating the actuating element the contact element can be disengaged from an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening and the electrical line can thus be detached from the connection device.
  • the contact element is designed as a leg spring
  • the actuating element can act, for example, on the contact leg of the leg spring in order to adjust it and thereby transfer the contact element from the contacting position to the open position.
  • the connecting device has a current bar for making electrical contact with the electrical line in the contacting position of the contact element.
  • the current bar has, for example, a bar section with which an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening is pressed into contact via the contact element, so that the electrical line makes electrical contact with the bar section.
  • a further electrical line can be connected to the current bar, for example, or the current bar can have electrical connections, for example for arranging the connection device on a printed circuit board or for connecting to an associated plug connector.
  • Figures 1A to 1C , 2A to 2C and 3A, 3B show an exemplary embodiment of a connecting device 1 which enables an electrical line 2 to be connected.
  • the connection device 1 can, for example, be part of a plug connector, with several connection devices 1 being able to be combined with one another in order to enable the connection of several electrical lines.
  • the connecting device 1 has a housing 10 in which a plug-in opening 100 is formed, into which an electrical line 2 can be plugged in along a plug-in direction E.
  • the housing 10 delimits a connection chamber 101 into which the electrical line 2 can be inserted with a (stripped) conductor end 20 by plugging it into the plug-in opening 100 in order to make electrical contact within the connection chamber 101 with a current bar 13 arranged on the housing 10 .
  • the connecting device 1 has a contact element 11 in the form of a torsion spring, which has a contact leg 110, a support leg 112 connected to the contact leg 110 via a curved connecting section 111, and a bearing section formed by a bent, chamfered end of the support leg 112 113 has.
  • the contact element is routed around a housing section 102 of the housing 10 with the connecting section 111 and is supported on the housing 10 via the support leg 112 , so that the contact element 11 is fixed to the housing 10 .
  • the contact leg 110 is elastically deflectable to the support leg 112 and between a contacting position ( Figure 1C , 2C ) and an open position ( Figure 1B , 2 B ) adjustable.
  • the contact leg 110 In the contact position ( Figure 1C , 2C ) the contact leg 110 is in contrast closer to the bar section 130, so that an electrical line 2 inserted into the plug-in opening 100 is pressed by means of the contact leg 110 into electrically contacting contact with the bar section 130 and is thus electrically contacted with the current bar 13.
  • the contact leg 110 of the contact element 11 is latched via a rocker element 12, so that the contact leg 110 is held in position.
  • the contact leg 110 has two lateral, bent, lug-shaped latching sections 114 which protrude downwards from the contact leg 110 along the insertion direction E and are in latching operative connection with the rocker element 12 in the open position of the contact element 11 .
  • the rocker element 12 has two rocker legs 120 , 121 that protrude from a central bearing head 124 .
  • the bearing head 124 is formed between the supporting surfaces 122, 123 adjoining the rocker arms 120, 121 and forms a tipping point about which the rocker element 12 can be tilted relative to the housing 10.
  • the rocker element 12 is arranged with the bearing head 124 on the bearing section 113 formed on the support leg 112 of the contact element 11 in such a way that the support surfaces 122, 123 receive the bearing section 113 between them.
  • the supporting surfaces 122, 123 form an acute angle to one another, so that the rocker element 12 can be tilted about a tilting axis K over a tilting angle limited by the supporting surfaces 122, 123 relative to the bearing section 113.
  • the rocker element 12 latches the contact leg 110 of the contact element 11 via the latching sections 114, so that the contact leg 110 is held in its open position.
  • the latching sections 114 are in contact with the supporting surface 123 of the rocker element 12 facing away from the bar section 130 of the current bar 13 .
  • the rocker element 12 When an electrical cable 2 is inserted into the plug-in opening 100, the rocker element 12 is actuated by the conductor end 20 inserted into the connection chamber 101, in that the conductor end 20 acts on the rocker leg 120 of the rocker element 12 facing the bar section 130 and thereby moves the rocker element 12 out of the first tilted position ( Figure 3B ) tilted.
  • the latching sections 114 and thus the contact leg 110 are (slightly) raised, with the supporting surface 123 facing the latching sections 114 also being inclined so that the latching sections 114 can slide over the bearing head 124 and the contact leg 110 can thus move in the direction of its contacting position ( Figure 1C , 2C ) misaligned.
  • the electrical line 2 inserted into the plug-in opening 100 is thus electrically contacted in that the electrical line 2 is pressed into contacting contact with the bar section 130 via the contact leg 110 .
  • the rocker element 12 When the electrical line 2 acts, the rocker element 12 is tilted into a second tilted position. Because the rocker arm 120 forms a comparatively large lever arm, a comparatively small amount of force is required for the inserted electrical line 2, so that the connection device 1 can also be closed with comparatively flexible electrical lines 2, for example with electrical lines 2 without wire-end ferrules attached to them.
  • the second tilted position is defined by a stop section 103 of the housing 10, against which the rocker arm 121 rests in the second tilted position, as shown in FIG Figure 1C and 2C is evident.
  • the connecting device 1 has an actuating element 14 which is accommodated in a guide opening 104 in the housing 10 and which can be actuated along an actuating direction B in order to convert the contact element 11 from a closed position into the open position. If the contact element 11 is to move from the closed position without an electrical line 2 ( Figure 1A , 2A , 3A ) or from the closed position with the electrical line connected 2 ( Figure 1C , 2C ) to the open position ( Figure 1B , 2 B , 3B ) are transferred, the actuating element 14 can be pressed into the housing 10 in the actuating direction B, for example using a tool such as a screwdriver, so that an actuating section 141 of the actuating element 14 in the form of a shaft extending into the connection chamber 101 onto the Contact leg 110 of the contact element 11 acts and thereby moves the contact leg 110 into the open position.
  • a tool such as a screwdriver
  • the contact leg 110 latches automatically with the rocker element 12 via the latching sections 114 in that the latching sections 114 are moved over the bearing head 124 and the rocker element 12 is thereby taken along and into the first tilted position ( Figure 1B , 2 B , 3B ) is tilted.
  • actuating element 14 can also be guided adjustably on housing 10 along an actuation direction directed transversely to plug-in direction E, in order to act on contact leg 110 from the side.
  • the rocker element 12 is symmetrically shaped in a plane perpendicular to the tilting axis K, in that the rocker arms 120, 121 are of the same length and are arranged symmetrically to one another, or at least the mass of the rocker arms 120, 121 to produce a mass symmetry with a view to the Storage at the bearing head 124 is balanced.
  • rocker element 11 it is also conceivable for the rocker element 11 to be designed asymmetrically, for example with rocker arms 120, 121 of unequal length.
  • the contact element 11 is designed as a torsion spring, but it can also be designed as a tension spring, for example.
  • the contact element can be made, for example, from a spring steel sheet and formed integrally as a stamped and bent part.
  • the contact element 11 can be designed to be spring-elastic
  • the rocker element 12 can, for example, be formed essentially rigidly, that is to say not be designed to be springy.
  • rocker element 12 serves to latch the contact leg 110 in a position remote from the bar section 130 of the current bar 13 in order to enable an electrical line 2 to be easily plugged in.
  • rocker leg 120 of rocker element 12 protruding into the area of plug-in opening 100, rocker element 12 can be tilted in order to cancel the latching with contact leg 110 and thus enable automatic closing of connecting device 1.
  • connection device of the type described here can be used in different ways, for example in a switch cabinet or in another electrical system for connecting one or more electrical lines.
  • connection devices can be used here in combination with one another, so that a connection arrangement can be created to which a plurality of electrical lines can be connected.
  • the connecting device can enable delivery in the open position.
  • the contact element can be held securely, reliably and resiliently in the open position without easily closing unintentionally, particularly in the event of a shock or vibration effect.

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Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Anschlusseinrichtung zum Anschließen einer elektrischen Leitung nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The invention relates to a connection device for connecting an electrical line according to the preamble of claim 1.

Eine derartige Anschlusseinrichtung umfasst ein Gehäuse, das eine Stecköffnung zum Einstecken einer elektrischen Leitung aufweist. In dem Gehäuse ist ein elektrisches Kontaktelement angeordnet, das aus einer Öffnungsstellung in eine Kontaktierstellung relativ zu dem Gehäuse verstellbar ist, um in der Kontaktierstellung mit einer in die Stecköffnung eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung elektrisch zu kontaktieren.Such a connection device includes a housing that has a plug-in opening for plugging in an electrical line. An electrical contact element is arranged in the housing and can be moved from an open position into a contacting position relative to the housing in order to make electrical contact in the contacting position with an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening.

Elektrische Anschlusseinrichtungen ganz unterschiedlicher Bauform sind aus dem Stand der Technik bekannt. Bei einem Schraubanschluss beispielsweise wird eine elektrische Leitung mit einem abisolierten Leiterende in eine Stecköffnung eingesteckt und sodann durch Verschrauben klemmend an dem Schraubanschluss festgelegt. Bei einer Federkraftklemme wird demgegenüber eine elektrische Leitung in eine Stecköffnung eingesteckt und kommt mit dem Schenkel einer Feder in Anlage, wobei die Feder derart auf die elektrische Leitung einwirkt, dass die elektrische Leitung mechanisch arretiert und zudem elektrisch zum Beispiel mit einer Stromschiene kontaktiert ist.Electrical connection devices of very different designs are known from the prior art. In the case of a screw connection, for example, an electrical line with a stripped conductor end is inserted into a plug-in opening and then fixed in a clamping manner on the screw connection by screwing. In the case of a spring-loaded terminal, on the other hand, an electrical line is inserted into a plug-in opening and comes into contact with the leg of a spring, the spring acting on the electrical line in such a way that the electrical line is mechanically locked and is also electrically contacted, for example with a busbar.

Bei solchen Anschlusseinrichtungen ist wünschenswert, ein einfaches Anschließen einer elektrischen Leitung zu ermöglichen. Vorteilhaft kann hierbei sein, dass beim Einstecken einer elektrischen Leitung die Anschlusseinrichtung selbsttätig schließt, also das Kontaktelement selbsttätig aus der Öffnungsstellung in die Kontaktierstellung überführt wird, um sicher und zuverlässig mit der in die Stecköffnung des Gehäuses eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung zu kontaktieren. Solch ein selbsttätiges Auslösen soll hierbei nicht nur bei einer vergleichsweise starren elektrischen Leitung, beispielsweise bei einer an einer elektrischen Leitung angeordneten Aderendhülse, möglich sein, sondern auch bei einer elektrischen Leitung, die mit vergleichsweise geringer Steckkraft in die Stecköffnung des Gehäuses eingesteckt wird.With such connection devices, it is desirable to enable easy connection of an electrical line. It can be advantageous here that when an electrical line is plugged in, the connection device closes automatically, i.e. the contact element is automatically transferred from the open position to the contacting position in order to make safe and reliable contact with the electrical line plugged into the plug-in opening of the housing. Such automatic triggering should not only be possible with a comparatively rigid electrical line, for example with a ferrule arranged on an electrical line, but also with an electrical line that is inserted into the plug-in opening of the housing with comparatively little insertion force.

Hierbei ist jedoch zu berücksichtigen, dass vorgesehen sein kann, die Anschlusseinrichtung in ihrer Öffnungsstellung auszuliefern, um im Rahmen einer bestimmungsgemäßen Verwendung ein unmittelbares Anschließen einer elektrischen Leitung zu ermöglichen. Beim Transport einer solchen Anschlusseinrichtung soll das Kontaktelement der Anschlusseinrichtung daher nach Möglichkeit auch bei Schockwirkung oder Vibrationen nicht auslösen.However, it must be taken into account here that provision can be made for the connection device to be delivered in its open position in order to enable direct connection of an electrical line within the framework of intended use. When transporting such a connection device, the contact element of the connection device should not be triggered, if possible, even in the event of a shock effect or vibrations.

Die DE 198 25 629 B4 offenbart eine Federkraftklemme mit einem in einem Anschlussraum angeordneten Klemmkörper, der vor dem Einführen eines elektrischen Leiters mit einem Leiterende in den Anschlussraum in einer Vorspannstellung gehalten und nach dem Einführen des Leiters in den Anschlussraum freigegeben ist.The DE 198 25 629 B4 discloses a spring-loaded terminal with a clamping body arranged in a connection space, which is held in a prestressed position before the insertion of an electrical conductor with one end of the conductor into the connection space and is released after the insertion of the conductor into the connection space.

Bei einer aus der DE 10 2015 119 407 A1 bekannten Anschlussklemme weist ein Isolierstoffgehäuse eine Leiterklemmeneinrichtung auf, die ein ortsfest in dem Isolierstoffgehäuse angeordnetes Kontaktelement sowie ein zwischen einer Leitereinführungsstellung und einer Klemmstellung mittels eines Führungsmittels bewegbar in dem Isolierstoffgehäuse angeordnetes Schiebeteil aufweist. Bei Einstecken eines elektrischen Leiters wird das Schiebeteil in die Klemmstellung verschoben, um den elektrischen Leiter mit der Anschlussklemme zu kontaktieren.At one from the DE 10 2015 119 407 A1 known connection terminal, an insulating housing has a conductor terminal device which has a stationary contact element arranged in the insulating housing and a sliding part arranged in the insulating housing so that it can be moved between a conductor insertion position and a clamping position by means of a guide means. When an electrical conductor is plugged in, the sliding part is moved into the clamped position in order to contact the electrical conductor with the connection terminal.

Bei einer aus der DE 20 2016 007 200 U1 bekannten Anschlusseinrichtung ist ein Kontaktschenkel einer ein Kontaktelement ausbildenden Schenkelfeder in einer Öffnungsstellung mit einem Stützschenkel der Schenkelfeder verrastet. Bei Einstecken gelangt eine elektrische Leitung mit dem Stützschenkel in Wechselwirkung und löst somit die Verrastung des Kontaktschenkels, sodass die Anschlusseinrichtung bei Einstecken der elektrischen Leitung selbsttätig schließt.At one from the DE 20 2016 007 200 U1 known connecting device is a contact leg of a leg spring forming a contact element latched in an open position with a support leg of the leg spring. When plugging in, an electrical line interacts with the support leg and thus releases the latching of the contact leg, so that the connection device closes automatically when the electrical line is plugged in.

Bei einer aus der DE 20 2016 104 971 U1 bekannten Anschlusseinrichtung weist eine Klemmfeder einen Klemmschenkel auf, der in einer Öffnungsstellung über eine Rasteinrichtung verrastbar ist.At one from the DE 20 2016 104 971 U1 known connecting device has a clamping spring on a clamping leg which can be latched in an open position via a latching device.

Aus der DE 20 2017 103 185 U1 ist eine Federkraftklemme bekannt, welche eine Klemmfeder aufweist, wobei die Klemmfeder einen um eine Schwenkachse verschwenkbaren Klemmschenkel aufweist, der von einem Rastzustand, in dem er in einer Raststellung verrastet ist, in einen Klemmzustand verstellbar ist, in dem er aus dem Rastzustand entrastet ist und den elektrischen Leiter gegen die Stromschiene oder den Klemmkäfig drückt. Der Klemmschenkel ist mit zwei verschiedenen Verstellmitteln aus dem Rastzustand lösbar.From the DE 20 2017 103 185 U1 a spring-loaded terminal is known which has a clamping spring, the clamping spring having a clamping leg which can be pivoted about a pivot axis and which can be adjusted from a latched state in which it is latched in a latched position to a clamped state in which it is unlatched from the latched state and presses the electrical conductor against the busbar or the terminal cage. The clamping leg can be released from the locked state with two different adjustment means.

Die DE 30 19 149 A1 offenbart eine Federklemme, mit einem in einer Anschlusskammer angeordneten Rastglied, wobei der Klemmschenkel der Klemmfeder in von der Kontaktwand abgehobener Stellung durch das Rastglied verriegelbar ist und wobei die Verriegelung nach dem Einführen des elektrischen Leiters in die Anschlusskammer durch Betätigung eines mit dem Rastglied verbundenen Auslöseglieds lösbar ist.The DE 30 19 149 A1 discloses a spring clamp with a latching element arranged in a connection chamber, the clamping leg of the clamping spring being able to be locked by the latching element in the position lifted from the contact wall, and the locking being releasable after the electrical conductor has been inserted into the connection chamber by actuating a triggering element connected to the latching element is.

Weiter ist aus der EP 2 843 764 A1 eine Federkraftklemme mit einer Klemmfeder bekannt, wobei die Klemmfeder einen um eine Schwenkachse in eine Schwenkrichtung verschwenkbaren Klemmschenkel aufweist, der von einem Rastzustand, in dem er an einem Haltemittel verrastet ist, durch Verschieben des elektrischen Leiters in einen Klemmzustand verstellbar ist, in dem er vom Haltemittel entrastet ist und den elektrischen Leiter gegen die Stromschiene drückt.Next is from the EP 2 843 764 A1 a spring-loaded terminal with a clamping spring is known, with the clamping spring having a clamping leg which can be pivoted about a pivot axis in a pivoting direction and which can be adjusted from a latched state in which it is latched to a holding means by moving the electrical conductor into a clamped state in which it can be Retaining means is unlocked and presses the electrical conductor against the busbar.

Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es, eine Anschlusseinrichtung zum Anschließen einer elektrischen Leitung zur Verfügung zu stellen, die ein einfaches Anschließen einer elektrischen Leitung bei selbstständigem Schließen der Anschlusseinrichtung auch bei geringen Steckkräften ermöglicht.It is the object of the present invention to provide a connection device for connecting an electrical line, which makes it possible to easily connect an electrical line when the connection device closes automatically, even with low insertion forces.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch einen Gegenstand mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.This object is solved by an object with the features of claim 1.

Demnach weist die Anschlusseinrichtung ein Wippenelement auf, das einen Lagerkopf und einen von dem Lagerkopf erstreckten Wippenschenkel aufweist. Der Lagerkopf ist an einem zu dem Gehäuse ortsfesten Lagerabschnitt verkippbar gelagert. Das Wippenelement ist ausgebildet, in einer ersten Kippstellung das Kontaktelement in der Öffnungsstellung zu halten. Das Wippenelement ist durch Einwirken der elektrischen Leitung auf den Wippenschenkel bei Einstecken der elektrischen Leitung in die Stecköffnung aus der ersten Kippstellung in eine zweite Kippstellung verkippbar, um das Kontaktelement zum Überführen in die Kontaktierstellung freizugeben. Das Kontaktelement weist zumindest einen Rastabschnitt auf, der in der Öffnungsstellung durch das Wippenelement verrastet ist.Accordingly, the connecting device has a rocker element which has a bearing head and a rocker leg extending from the bearing head. The bearing head is tiltably mounted on a bearing section that is stationary relative to the housing. The rocker element is designed to hold the contact element in the open position in a first tilted position. The rocker element can be tilted from the first tilted position into a second tilted position by the action of the electrical line on the rocker leg when the electrical line is inserted into the plug-in opening, in order to release the contact element for transfer into the contacting position. The contact element has at least one latching section which is latched in the open position by the rocker element.

Das Wippenelement ist verkippbar zu dem Gehäuse gelagert. Das Wippenelement ist hierzu über den Lagerkopf relativ zu dem Gehäuse abgestützt, sodass das Wippenelement um den Lagerkopf zu dem Gehäuse verkippt werden kann.The rocker element is mounted such that it can be tilted relative to the housing. For this purpose, the rocker element is supported relative to the housing via the bearing head, so that the rocker element can be tilted about the bearing head in relation to the housing.

Das Wippenelement dient dazu, in einer ersten Kippstellung das Kontaktelement derart zu verrasten, dass das Kontaktelement in seiner Öffnungsstellung gehalten ist. In der Öffnungsstellung kann eine elektrische Leitung in die Stecköffnung des Gehäuses eingesteckt werden, ohne dass dies durch das Kontaktelement gehindert ist, ohne dass also das Kontaktelement in den Bereich der Stecköffnung hineinragt und somit das Einstecken der elektrischen Leitung erschwert oder gar blockiert.The rocker element serves to latch the contact element in a first tilted position in such a way that the contact element is held in its open position. In the open position, an electrical line can be inserted into the plug-in opening of the housing without this being prevented by the contact element, i.e. without the contact element protruding into the area of the plug-in opening and thus making it difficult or even blocking the insertion of the electrical line.

Bei Einstecken in die Stecköffnung gelangt die elektrische Leitung mit dem Wippenschenkel des Wippenelements in Wechselwirkung, sodass das Wippenelement aus seiner ersten Kippstellung in die zweite Kippstellung verkippt wird. Durch das Verkippen des Wippenelements wird das Kontaktelement freigegeben, sodass das Kontaktelement aus der Öffnungsstellung in die Kontaktierstellung überführt werden und die Anschlusseinrichtung somit (selbsttätig) schließen kann.When plugged into the plug-in opening, the electrical line interacts with the rocker arm of the rocker element, so that the rocker element is tilted from its first tilted position into the second tilted position. The contact element is released by the tilting of the rocker element, so that the contact element can be transferred from the open position into the contacting position and the connection device can thus (automatically) close.

Durch das Wippenelement wird das Kontaktelement sicher und zuverlässig in der Öffnungsstellung gehalten. Dies ermöglicht insbesondere, die Anschlusseinrichtung in geöffneter Stellung ausliefern, wobei bei einem Transport der Anschlusseinrichtung ein selbsttätiges Auslösen der Anschlusseinrichtung zum Beispiel aufgrund einer Schockwirkung oder aufgrund von Vibrationen zumindest deutlich erschwert ist.The contact element is held securely and reliably in the open position by the rocker element. This makes it possible in particular to deliver the connecting device in the open position, with automatic triggering of the connecting device being at least significantly more difficult, for example due to a shock effect or due to vibrations, when the connecting device is being transported.

Das Wippenelement kann einfach und kostengünstig gefertigt und an dem Gehäuse montiert werden.The rocker element can be easily and inexpensively manufactured and mounted on the housing.

Weil der Wippenschenkel einen vergleichsweise großen Hebelarm zur Verfügung stellen kann, kann das Wippenelement auch bei geringen Steckkräften, beispielsweise bei einer elektrischen Leitung ohne eine an einem Leiterende angebrachte Aderendhülse, in einfacher Weise verkippt werden, sodass das Schließen der Anschlusseinrichtung selbsttätig und zuverlässig auch bei Leitungen erfolgen kann, die mit geringer Steckkraft auf das Wippenelement einwirken.Because the rocker arm can provide a comparatively large lever arm, the rocker element can be tilted in a simple manner even with low insertion forces, for example in the case of an electrical cable without a ferrule attached to one end of the conductor, so that the connection device closes automatically and reliably, even with cables can take place, which act on the rocker element with a low insertion force.

Das Kontaktelement ist in einer Ausgestaltung durch ein Federelement ausgebildet. Beispielsweise kann ein solches Federelement durch eine (auf Druck wirkende) Schenkelfeder oder eine (auf Zug über einen Zugschenkel wirkende) Zugfeder ausgebildet sein. Das Kontaktelement kann somit elastisch verstellt und ausgelenkt werden, um insbesondere ein selbsttätiges Schließen der Anschlusseinrichtung bei Einstecken einer elektrischen Leitung zu ermöglichen.In one configuration, the contact element is formed by a spring element. For example, such a spring element can be formed by a leg spring (acting under pressure) or a tension spring (acting under tension via a tension leg). The contact element can thus be elastically adjusted and deflected in order in particular to enable automatic closing of the connection device when an electrical line is plugged in.

In einer Ausgestaltung weist das Kontaktelement einen ortsfest zu dem Gehäuse abgestützten Stützschenkel und einen federelastisch zu dem Stützschenkel auslenkbaren Kontaktschenkel zum Kontaktieren mit der elektrischen Leitung auf. Der Kontaktschenkel ist in der Öffnungsstellung der Anschlusseinrichtung über das Wippenelement verrastet. In der Kontaktierstellung ist der Kontaktschenkel demgegenüber mit der in die Stecköffnung des Gehäuses eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung in elektrisch kontaktierender Anlage, beispielsweise um ein abisoliertes Leiterende der Leitung in Anlage mit einem Strombalken der Anschlusseinrichtung zu drücken und damit die Leitung mit dem Strombalken elektrisch zu kontaktieren.In one embodiment, the contact element has a support leg that is supported in a stationary manner relative to the housing and a contact leg that can be deflected in a resilient manner relative to the support leg for making contact with the electrical line. In the open position of the connecting device, the contact leg is latched via the rocker element. In the contacting position, on the other hand, the contact leg is in electrically contacting contact with the electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening of the housing, for example in contact with a current bar around a stripped conductor end of the line of the connection device and thus to electrically contact the line with the current bar.

Der Stützschenkel kann beispielsweise über einen gekrümmten Verbindungsabschnitt mit dem Kontaktschenkel verbunden sein, wobei der Verbindungsabschnitt beispielsweise um einen Gehäuseabschnitt des Gehäuses herumgelegt ist und der Stützschenkel eine Abstützung gegenüber dem Gehäuse bereitstellt. Über den Stützschenkel ist das Kontaktelement somit zu dem Gehäuse festgelegt, wobei der Kontaktschenkel elastisch federnd zu dem Stützschenkel ausgelenkt werden kann, um das Kontaktelement zwischen der Öffnungsstellung und der Kontaktierstellung zu verstellen.The support leg can be connected to the contact leg, for example, via a curved connection section, the connection section being placed around a housing section of the housing, for example, and the support leg providing support relative to the housing. The contact element is thus fixed to the housing via the support leg, with the contact leg being able to be deflected in an elastically resilient manner towards the support leg in order to adjust the contact element between the open position and the contacting position.

In einer Ausgestaltung ist der Kontaktschenkel in der Öffnungsstellung des Kontaktelements elastisch zu dem Stützschenkel gespannt. In der Öffnungsstellung, in der der Kontaktschenkel über das Wippenelement verrastet und somit in Position gehalten ist, ist der Kontaktschenkel somit federmechanisch zu dem Stützschenkel vorgespannt. Wirkt eine elektrische Leitung bei Einstecken in die Stecköffnung auf den Wippenschenkel des Wippenelements ein und verkippt dadurch das Wippenelement, wird der Kontaktschenkel freigegeben und verstellt sich aufgrund seiner federelastischen Spannung selbsttätig in die Kontaktierstellung, um mit der in die Stecköffnung eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung zu kontaktieren.In one embodiment, the contact leg is stretched elastically towards the support leg when the contact element is in the open position. In the open position, in which the contact leg latches via the rocker element and is thus held in position, the contact leg is thus spring-mechanically prestressed towards the support leg. If an electrical line acts on the rocker arm of the rocker element when it is inserted into the plug-in opening and the rocker element tilts as a result, the contact arm is released and automatically moves into the contacting position due to its spring-elastic tension in order to make contact with the electrical line inserted in the plug-in opening.

Der Wippenschenkel ist hierbei - betrachtet entlang einer Steckrichtung, in die die elektrische Leitung in die Stecköffnung einzustecken ist - vorteilhafterweise hinter dem Kontaktschenkel angeordnet, sodass bei Einstecken in die Stecköffnung die elektrische Leitung zunächst an dem Kontaktschenkel vorbei bewegt wird und sodann in Wechselwirkung mit dem Wippenschenkel gelangt, sodass bei Auslösen des Wippenelements der Kontaktschenkel des Kontaktelements zuverlässig in Anlage mit der in die Stecköffnung eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung gelangen kann.In this case, the rocker arm is advantageously arranged behind the contact arm, viewed along a plugging direction in which the electrical line is to be inserted into the plug-in opening, so that when it is plugged into the plug-in opening, the electrical line is first moved past the contact arm and then interacts with the rocker arm reaches, so that when the rocker element is triggered, the contact leg of the contact element can reliably come into contact with the electrical line plugged into the plug-in opening.

Das Wippenelement ist über seinen Lagerkopf verkippbar an einem zu dem Gehäuse ortsfesten Lagerabschnitt gelagert. Der Lagerabschnitt kann beispielsweise integral an dem Kontaktelement geformt und beispielsweise durch ein Ende des Stützschenkels ausgebildet sein. Das Wippenelement ist in diesem Fall an dem Kontaktelement gelagert und kann bei Wechselwirkung mit einer in die Stecköffnung eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung zu dem Stützschenkel verkippen, um den Kontaktschenkel zum Überführen aus der Öffnungsstellung in die Kontaktierstellung freizugeben.The rocker element can be tilted via its bearing head on a bearing section that is stationary relative to the housing. The bearing section can, for example, be formed integrally on the contact element and formed, for example, by an end of the support leg. In this case, the rocker element is mounted on the contact element and, upon interaction with an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening, can tilt toward the support leg in order to release the contact leg for transfer from the open position to the contacting position.

Der Lagerabschnitt kann jedoch auch als Zusatzteil mit dem Kontaktelement verbunden sein.However, the bearing section can also be connected to the contact element as an additional part.

Erfindungsgemäß weist das Kontaktelement zumindest einen Rastabschnitt auf, der in der Öffnungsstellung durch das Wippenelement verrastet ist. Ist das Kontaktelement beispielsweise durch eine Schenkelfeder geformt, so kann der Rastabschnitt zum Beispiel durch eine von dem Kontaktschenkel vorstehende, zu dem Kontaktschenkel umgebogene Lasche geformt sein, die in der Öffnungsstellung des Kontaktelements mit dem Wippenelement verrastet ist. Beidseits des Kontaktschenkels kann hierbei beispielsweise jeweils ein Rastabschnitt geformt sein, sodass eine zuverlässige, belastbare Verrastung mit dem Wippenelement hergestellt werden kann.According to the invention, the contact element has at least one latching section which is latched in the open position by the rocker element. If the contact element is formed by a torsion spring, for example, the latching section can be formed by a tab that protrudes from the contact leg and is bent over to form the contact leg, which is latched to the rocker element in the open position of the contact element. A latching section can be formed on both sides of the contact leg, for example, so that a reliable, resilient latching can be established with the rocker element.

In einer Ausgestaltung liegt der zumindest eine Rastabschnitt in der Öffnungsstellung an einer an den Lagerkopf anschließenden Stützfläche des Wippenelements an. Beispielsweise kann der Lagerkopf durch unter einem spitzen Winkel zueinander erstreckte Stützflächen gebildet sein, die auf den Lagerabschnitt aufgesetzt sind und somit eine verkippbare Lagerung des Wippenelements zu dem Gehäuse bereitstellen. Mit einer der Stützflächen ist der zumindest eine Rastabschnitt des Kontaktelements in der Öffnungsstellung in Anlage, sodass darüber das Kontaktelement in der Öffnungsstellung gehalten ist. Wird das Wippenelement aus der ersten Kippstellung in die zweite Kippstellung verkippt, so kann dadurch der zumindest eine Rastabschnitt beispielsweise (geringfügig) angehoben und dadurch über den Lagerkopf des Wippenelements hinweg bewegt werden, sodass das Kontaktelement aus der Öffnungsstellung in die Kontaktierstellung überführt wird. Beispielsweise kann der in der Öffnungsstellung elastisch verspannte Kontaktschenkel dadurch freigegeben werden und in Richtung der Kontaktierstellung in Anlage mit der in die Stecköffnung eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung schnappen.In one configuration, the at least one latching section rests in the open position on a support surface of the rocker element adjoining the bearing head. For example, the bearing head can be formed by support surfaces which extend at an acute angle to one another and are placed on the bearing section and thus provide a tiltable bearing of the rocker element with respect to the housing. The at least one latching section of the contact element is in contact with one of the support surfaces in the open position, so that the contact element is held in the open position by it. If the rocker element is tilted from the first tilted position into the second tilted position, the at least one latching section can be raised (slightly), for example, and thereby moved over the bearing head of the rocker element, so that the contact element is transferred from the open position to the contacting position. For example, the contact leg, which is elastically braced in the open position, can thereby be released and snap in the direction of the contacting position in contact with the electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening.

In einer Ausgestaltung ist das Kontaktelement als integrales, gebogenes Blechteil geformt. Das Kontaktelement kann beispielsweise aus einem Federstahl gefertigt und beispielsweise als Stanzbiegeteil ausgebildet sein. Das Kontaktelement kann die Form einer Schenkelfeder oder einer Zugfeder aufweisen.In one embodiment, the contact element is formed as an integral, bent sheet metal part. The contact element can be made from spring steel, for example, and can be designed, for example, as a stamped and bent part. The contact element can be in the form of a torsion spring or a tension spring.

Das Kontaktelement kann sich jedoch auch aus verschiedenen Einzelteilen zusammensetzen.However, the contact element can also be composed of different individual parts.

In einer Ausgestaltung ist das Wippenelement um eine Kippachse zu dem Gehäuse verkippbar, die senkrecht zu einer Ebene gerichtet ist, entlang derer das Kontaktelement zwischen der Öffnungsstellung und der Kontaktierstellung verstellbar ist. Ist das Kontaktelement beispielsweise als Schenkelfeder ausgebildet, so ist der Kontaktschenkel in einer Ebene relativ zu dem Stützschenkel elastisch auslenkbar und somit entlang dieser Ebene zu dem Stützschenkel bewegbar. Die Kippachse, um die das Wippenelement zu dem Gehäuse verkippbar ist, ist senkrecht zu dieser Ebene gerichtet, sodass das Wippenelement in der Ebene verkippbar ist, in der auch das Kontaktelement verstellbar ist.In one embodiment, the rocker element can be tilted relative to the housing about a tilting axis, which is directed perpendicularly to a plane along which the contact element can be adjusted between the open position and the contacting position. If the contact element is designed as a leg spring, for example, then the contact leg can be elastically deflected in a plane relative to the support leg and can therefore be moved along this plane to the support leg. The tilting axis about which the rocker element can be tilted relative to the housing is directed perpendicularly to this plane, so that the rocker element can be tilted in the plane in which the contact element can also be adjusted.

In einer Ausgestaltung weist das Wippenelement einen ersten Wippenschenkel an einer ersten Seite des Lagerkopfs zum Wechselwirken mit der elektrischen Leitung und einen zweiten Wippenschenkel an einer der ersten Seite abgewandten, zweiten Seite des Lagerkopfs auf. Während eine elektrische Leitung bei Einstecken in die Stecköffnung mit dem ersten Wippenschenkel in Wechselwirkung gelangt, kann der auf der anderen, abgewandten Seite angeordnete, zweite Wippenschenkel beispielsweise zum Wechselwirken mit einem Anschlagabschnitt des Gehäuses dienen, sodass über den zweiten Wippenschenkel beispielsweise die zweite Kippstellung definiert ist. Insbesondere kann durch Anschlagen des zweiten Wippenschenkels an dem zu dem Gehäuse ortsfesten Anschlagabschnitt das Wippenelement nicht über die zweite Kippstellung hinaus zu dem Gehäuse verkippt werden.In one configuration, the rocker element has a first rocker arm on a first side of the bearing head for interaction with the electrical line and a second rocker arm on a second side of the bearing head, facing away from the first side. While an electrical line interacts with the first rocker arm when it is inserted into the plug-in opening, the second rocker arm arranged on the other, remote side can, for example, serve to interact with a stop section of the housing, so that the second rocker arm, for example, defines the second tilted position . In particular, the rocker element cannot be tilted beyond the second tilted position in relation to the housing when the second rocker arm strikes the stop section which is stationary in relation to the housing.

Das Wippenelement kann vorteilhafterweise in der zur Kippachse senkrechten Ebene symmetrisch ausgebildet sein. Insbesondere können die Wippenschenkel des Wippenelements gleich geformt und symmetrisch von dem Lagerkopf zum Herstellen einer Formsymmetrie erstreckt sein. Gegebenenfalls kann die Symmetrie auf eine Massesymmetrie beschränkt sein, indem die Masse der Schenkel bezüglich der Lagerung an dem Lagerabschnitt ausgeglichen ist, um ein massesymmetrisches Wippenelement bereitzustellen. Die (form- oder masse-) symmetrische Bauweise hat den Vorteil, dass sich vibrations- und schockbedingte Kräfte auf die Wippenschenkel (z.B. beim Transport) kompensieren und ein unbeabsichtigtes Auslösen der Klemme deutlich erschweren.The rocker element can advantageously be symmetrical in the plane perpendicular to the tilting axis. In particular, the rocker legs of the rocker element can be of the same shape and can extend symmetrically from the bearing head in order to produce a form of symmetry. If necessary, the symmetry can be limited to a mass symmetry, in that the mass of the legs is balanced with respect to the bearing on the bearing section, in order to provide a mass-symmetrical rocker element. The (shape or mass) symmetrical design has the advantage that vibration and shock-related forces on the rocker arm (e.g. during transport) are compensated and unintentional release of the clamp is made significantly more difficult.

Dies ist jedoch nicht zwingend. Denkbar ist auch, das Wippenelement asymmetrisch beispielsweise mit ungleich langen Wippenschenkeln auszubilden. Vorteilhaft kann hierbei aber sein, dass das Wippenelement dann wiederum aus funktionalen Gründen der Vibrations- und Schockresistenz ein um den Lagerkopf ausgewogenes Masseverhältnis aufweist.However, this is not mandatory. It is also conceivable to design the rocker element asymmetrically, for example with rocker arms of unequal length. It can be advantageous here, however, for the rocker element to have a balanced mass ratio around the bearing head for functional reasons of resistance to vibration and shock.

Die Anschlusseinrichtung weist, in einer Ausgestaltung, ein Betätigungselement, zum Beispiel in Form eines entlang einer Betätigungsrichtung verschiebbar an dem Gehäuse gelagerten Drückers, zum Einwirken auf das Kontaktelement auf. Das Betätigungselement kann insbesondere dazu dienen, das Kontaktelement aus der Kontaktierstellung in die Öffnungsstellung zu überführen, sodass durch Betätigung des Betätigungselements das Kontaktelement außer Anlage von einer in die Stecköffnung eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung gebracht und die elektrische Leitung somit von der Anschlusseinrichtung gelöst werden kann. Ist das Kontaktelement als Schenkelfeder ausgebildet, kann das Betätigungselement beispielsweise auf den Kontaktschenkel der Schenkelfeder einwirken, um diesen zu verstellen und dadurch das Kontaktelement aus der Kontaktierstellung in die Öffnungsstellung zu überführen.In one configuration, the connecting device has an actuating element, for example in the form of a push button mounted on the housing so that it can be displaced along an actuating direction, for acting on the contact element. The actuating element can be used in particular to move the contact element from the contacting position into the open position, so that by actuating the actuating element the contact element can be disengaged from an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening and the electrical line can thus be detached from the connection device. If the contact element is designed as a leg spring, the actuating element can act, for example, on the contact leg of the leg spring in order to adjust it and thereby transfer the contact element from the contacting position to the open position.

In einer Ausgestaltung weist die Anschlusseinrichtung einen Strombalken zum elektrischen Kontaktieren mit der elektrischen Leitung in der Kontaktierstellung des Kontaktelements auf. Der Strombalken weist beispielsweise einen Balkenabschnitt auf, mit dem eine in die Stecköffnung eingesteckte elektrische Leitung über das Kontaktelement in Anlage gedrückt wird, sodass die elektrische Leitung mit dem Balkenabschnitt elektrisch kontaktiert. An den Strombalken kann beispielsweise eine weitere elektrische Leitung angeschlossen sein, oder der Strombalken kann elektrische Anschlüsse zum Beispiel zum Anordnen der Anschlusseinrichtung an einer Leiterplatte oder zum Verbinden mit einem zugeordneten Steckverbinder aufweisen.In one configuration, the connecting device has a current bar for making electrical contact with the electrical line in the contacting position of the contact element. The current bar has, for example, a bar section with which an electrical line inserted into the plug-in opening is pressed into contact via the contact element, so that the electrical line makes electrical contact with the bar section. A further electrical line can be connected to the current bar, for example, or the current bar can have electrical connections, for example for arranging the connection device on a printed circuit board or for connecting to an associated plug connector.

Der der Erfindung zugrunde liegende Gedanke soll nachfolgend anhand der in den Figuren dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiele näher erläutert werden. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1A
eine Ansicht eines Ausführungsbeispiels einer Anschlusseinrichtung, in einer Kontaktierstellung eines Kontaktelements in Form einer Schenkelfeder;
Fig. 1B
eine Ansicht der Anschlusseinrichtung, in einer Öffnungsstellung des Kontaktelements;
Fig. 1C
eine Ansicht der Anschlusseinrichtung, bei eingesteckter elektrischer Leitung;
Fig. 2A
eine seitliche Ansicht der Anordnung gemäß Fig. 1A;
Fig. 2B
eine seitliche Ansicht der Anordnung gemäß Fig. 1B;
Fig. 2C
eine seitliche Ansicht der Anordnung gemäß Fig. 1C;
Fig. 3A
eine gesonderte Ansicht des Kontaktelements zusammen mit einem Wippenelement und einem Strombalken der Anschlusseinrichtung, in der Kontaktierstellung des Kontaktelements;
Fig. 3B
eine Ansicht der Anordnung gemäß Fig. 3A, in der Öffnungsstellung des Kontaktelements; und
Fig. 4
eine schematische Ansicht zur Veranschaulichung der Funktion der Anschlusseinrichtung.
The idea on which the invention is based is to be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures. Show it:
Figure 1A
a view of an embodiment of a connection device, in a contacting position of a contact element in the form of a torsion spring;
Figure 1B
a view of the connection device in an open position of the contact element;
Figure 1C
a view of the connection device with the electrical cable plugged in;
Figure 2A
according to a side view of the arrangement Figure 1A ;
Figure 2B
according to a side view of the arrangement Figure 1B ;
Figure 2C
according to a side view of the arrangement Figure 1C ;
Figure 3A
a separate view of the contact element together with a rocker element and a current bar of the connection device, in the contacting position of the contact element;
Figure 3B
a view of the arrangement according to Figure 3A , in the open position of the contact element; and
4
a schematic view to illustrate the function of the connection device.

Fig. 1A bis 1C, 2A bis 2C und 3A, 3B zeigen ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer Anschlusseinrichtung 1, die das Anschließen einer elektrischen Leitung 2 ermöglicht. Die Anschlusseinrichtung 1 kann beispielsweise Bestandteil eines Steckverbinders sein, wobei mehrere Anschlusseinrichtungen 1 miteinander kombiniert sein können, um das Anschließen mehrerer elektrischer Leitungen zu ermöglichen. Figures 1A to 1C , 2A to 2C and 3A, 3B show an exemplary embodiment of a connecting device 1 which enables an electrical line 2 to be connected. The connection device 1 can, for example, be part of a plug connector, with several connection devices 1 being able to be combined with one another in order to enable the connection of several electrical lines.

Die Anschlusseinrichtung 1 weist ein Gehäuse 10 auf, in dem eine Stecköffnung 100 geformt ist, in die eine elektrische Leitung 2 entlang einer Steckrichtung E eingesteckt werden kann. Das Gehäuse 10 begrenzt eine Anschlusskammer 101, in die die elektrische Leitung 2 mit einem (abisolierten) Leiterende 20 durch Einstecken in die Stecköffnung 100 eingeführt werden kann, um innerhalb der Anschlusskammer 101 mit einem an dem Gehäuse 10 angeordneten Strombalken 13 elektrisch zu kontaktieren.The connecting device 1 has a housing 10 in which a plug-in opening 100 is formed, into which an electrical line 2 can be plugged in along a plug-in direction E. The housing 10 delimits a connection chamber 101 into which the electrical line 2 can be inserted with a (stripped) conductor end 20 by plugging it into the plug-in opening 100 in order to make electrical contact within the connection chamber 101 with a current bar 13 arranged on the housing 10 .

Die Anschlusseinrichtung 1 weist - bei dem dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel - ein Kontaktelement 11 in Form einer Schenkelfeder auf, die einen Kontaktschenkel 110, einen über einen gekrümmten Verbindungsabschnitt 111 mit dem Kontaktschenkel 110 verbundenen Stützschenkel 112 und einen durch ein umgebogenes, abgekantetes Ende des Stützschenkels 112 geformten Lagerabschnitt 113 aufweist. Das Kontaktelement ist mit dem Verbindungsabschnitt 111 um einen Gehäuseabschnitt 102 des Gehäuses 10 herumverlegt und über den Stützschenkel 112 zu dem Gehäuse 10 abgestützt, sodass das Kontaktelement 11 zu dem Gehäuse 10 festgelegt ist.In the exemplary embodiment shown, the connecting device 1 has a contact element 11 in the form of a torsion spring, which has a contact leg 110, a support leg 112 connected to the contact leg 110 via a curved connecting section 111, and a bearing section formed by a bent, chamfered end of the support leg 112 113 has. The contact element is routed around a housing section 102 of the housing 10 with the connecting section 111 and is supported on the housing 10 via the support leg 112 , so that the contact element 11 is fixed to the housing 10 .

Der Kontaktschenkel 110 ist elastisch zu dem Stützschenkel 112 auslenkbar und zwischen einer Kontaktierstellung (Fig. 1C, 2C) und einer Öffnungsstellung (Fig. 1B, 2B) verstellbar.The contact leg 110 is elastically deflectable to the support leg 112 and between a contacting position ( Figure 1C , 2C ) and an open position ( Figure 1B , 2 B ) adjustable.

In der Öffnungsstellung (Fig. 1B, 2B) ist der Kontaktschenkel 110 von einem Balkenabschnitt 130 des Strombalkens 13 entfernt, sodass der Kontaktschenkel 110 nicht (oder zumindest nicht wesentlich) in den Bereich der Stecköffnung 100 hineinragt und somit eine elektrische Leitung 2 entlang der Steckrichtung E im Wesentlichen ungehindert in die Stecköffnung 100 eingesteckt und in die Anschlusskammer 101 eingeführt werden kann.In the open position ( Figure 1B , 2 B ) the contact leg 110 is removed from a bar section 130 of the current bar 13, so that the contact leg 110 does not (or at least not significantly) protrude into the region of the plug-in opening 100 and thus an electrical line 2 along the plug-in direction E is plugged into the plug-in opening 100 essentially unhindered and can be inserted into the terminal chamber 101.

In der Kontaktierstellung (Fig. 1C, 2C) ist der Kontaktschenkel 110 demgegenüber dem Balkenabschnitt 130 angenähert, sodass eine in die Stecköffnung 100 eingesteckte elektrische Leitung 2 mittels des Kontaktschenkels 110 in elektrisch kontaktierende Anlage mit dem Balkenabschnitt 130 gepresst und dadurch elektrisch mit dem Strombalken 13 kontaktiert wird.In the contact position ( Figure 1C , 2C ) the contact leg 110 is in contrast closer to the bar section 130, so that an electrical line 2 inserted into the plug-in opening 100 is pressed by means of the contact leg 110 into electrically contacting contact with the bar section 130 and is thus electrically contacted with the current bar 13.

In der Öffnungsstellung ist der Kontaktschenkel 110 des Kontaktelements 11 über ein Wippenelement 12 verrastet, sodass der Kontaktschenkel 110 in Position gehalten wird. Der Kontaktschenkel 110 weist zwei seitliche, umgebogene, laschenförmige Rastabschnitte 114 auf, die entlang der Steckrichtung E nach unten von dem Kontaktschenkel 110 vorstehen und in der Öffnungsstellung des Kontaktelements 11 in rastender Wirkverbindung mit dem Wippenelement 12 stehen.In the open position, the contact leg 110 of the contact element 11 is latched via a rocker element 12, so that the contact leg 110 is held in position. The contact leg 110 has two lateral, bent, lug-shaped latching sections 114 which protrude downwards from the contact leg 110 along the insertion direction E and are in latching operative connection with the rocker element 12 in the open position of the contact element 11 .

Das Wippenelement 12 weist zwei gegenüber einem mittigen Lagerkopf 124 abstehende Wippenschenkel 120, 121 auf. Der Lagerkopf 124 ist zwischen an die Wippenschenkel 120, 121 anschließende Stützflächen 122, 123 geformt und bildet einen Kipppunkt aus, um den das Wippenelement 12 zu dem Gehäuse 10 verkippbar ist.The rocker element 12 has two rocker legs 120 , 121 that protrude from a central bearing head 124 . The bearing head 124 is formed between the supporting surfaces 122, 123 adjoining the rocker arms 120, 121 and forms a tipping point about which the rocker element 12 can be tilted relative to the housing 10.

Wie insbesondere aus den Ansichten gemäß Fig. 3A und 3B ersichtlich ist (in denen das Gehäuse 10 entfernt ist), ist das Wippenelement 12 mit dem Lagerkopf 124 derart an dem an dem Stützschenkel 112 des Kontaktelements 11 geformten Lagerabschnitt 113 angeordnet, dass die Stützflächen 122, 123 den Lagerabschnitt 113 zwischen sich aufnehmen. Die Stützflächen 122, 123 bilden dabei einen spitzen Winkel zueinander aus, sodass das Wippenelement 12 um eine Kippachse K über einen durch die Stützflächen 122, 123 begrenzten Kippwinkel zu dem Lagerabschnitt 113 verkippbar ist.As per particular from the views Figures 3A and 3B As can be seen (in which the housing 10 is removed), the rocker element 12 is arranged with the bearing head 124 on the bearing section 113 formed on the support leg 112 of the contact element 11 in such a way that the support surfaces 122, 123 receive the bearing section 113 between them. The supporting surfaces 122, 123 form an acute angle to one another, so that the rocker element 12 can be tilted about a tilting axis K over a tilting angle limited by the supporting surfaces 122, 123 relative to the bearing section 113.

In einer in Fig. 3B dargestellten, ersten Kippstellung verrastet das Wippenelement 12 den Kontaktschenkel 110 des Kontaktelements 11 über die Rastabschnitte 114, sodass der Kontaktschenkel 110 in seiner Öffnungsstellung gehalten ist. Hierzu liegen die Rastabschnitte 114 an der vom Balkenabschnitt 130 des Strombalkens 13 abgewandten Stützfläche 123 des Wippenelements 12 an.in a Figure 3B illustrated, first tilted position, the rocker element 12 latches the contact leg 110 of the contact element 11 via the latching sections 114, so that the contact leg 110 is held in its open position. For this purpose, the latching sections 114 are in contact with the supporting surface 123 of the rocker element 12 facing away from the bar section 130 of the current bar 13 .

Das Wippenelement 12 wird bei Einstecken einer elektrischen Leitung 2 in die Stecköffnung 100 durch das in die Anschlusskammer 101 eingeführte Leiterende 20 betätigt, indem das Leiterende 20 auf den dem Balkenabschnitt 130 zugewandten Wippenschenkel 120 des Wippenelements 12 einwirkt und dadurch das Wippenelement 12 aus der ersten Kippstellung (Fig. 3B) verkippt. Dadurch werden die Rastabschnitte 114 und somit der Kontaktschenkel 110 (geringfügig) angehoben, wobei zudem die den Rastabschnitten 114 zugewandte Stützfläche 123 schräg gestellt wird, sodass die Rastabschnitte 114 über den Lagerkopf 124 hinweg gleiten können und sich der Kontaktschenkel 110 somit in Richtung seiner Kontaktierstellung (Fig. 1C, 2C) verstellt. Die in die Stecköffnung 100 eingesteckte elektrische Leitung 2 wird somit elektrisch kontaktiert, indem die elektrische Leitung 2 über den Kontaktschenkel 110 in kontaktierende Anlage mit dem Balkenabschnitt 130 gepresst wird.When an electrical cable 2 is inserted into the plug-in opening 100, the rocker element 12 is actuated by the conductor end 20 inserted into the connection chamber 101, in that the conductor end 20 acts on the rocker leg 120 of the rocker element 12 facing the bar section 130 and thereby moves the rocker element 12 out of the first tilted position ( Figure 3B ) tilted. As a result, the latching sections 114 and thus the contact leg 110 are (slightly) raised, with the supporting surface 123 facing the latching sections 114 also being inclined so that the latching sections 114 can slide over the bearing head 124 and the contact leg 110 can thus move in the direction of its contacting position ( Figure 1C , 2C ) misaligned. The electrical line 2 inserted into the plug-in opening 100 is thus electrically contacted in that the electrical line 2 is pressed into contacting contact with the bar section 130 via the contact leg 110 .

Bei Einwirkung der elektrischen Leitung 2 wird das Wippenelement 12 in eine zweite Kippstellung verkippt. Weil der Wippenschenkel 120 einen vergleichsweise großen Hebelarm ausbildet, ist eine vergleichsweise geringe Kraftwirkung der eingesteckten elektrischen Leitung 2 erforderlich, sodass das Schließen der Anschlusseinrichtung 1 auch bei vergleichsweise flexiblen elektrischen Leitungen 2, beispielsweise bei elektrischen Leitungen 2 ohne daran angebrachte Aderendhülsen, bewirkt werden kann.When the electrical line 2 acts, the rocker element 12 is tilted into a second tilted position. Because the rocker arm 120 forms a comparatively large lever arm, a comparatively small amount of force is required for the inserted electrical line 2, so that the connection device 1 can also be closed with comparatively flexible electrical lines 2, for example with electrical lines 2 without wire-end ferrules attached to them.

Die zweite Kippstellung ist durch einen Anschlagabschnitt 103 des Gehäuses 10 definiert, an dem der Wippenschenkel 121 in der zweiten Kippstellung anliegt, wie dies aus Fig. 1C und 2C ersichtlich ist.The second tilted position is defined by a stop section 103 of the housing 10, against which the rocker arm 121 rests in the second tilted position, as shown in FIG Figure 1C and 2C is evident.

In Fig. 1A, 2A und 3A ist die Anschlusseinrichtung 1 in geschlossener Stellung ohne angeschlossene elektrische Leitung 2 dargestellt. Bei so geschlossener Anschlusseinrichtung 1 ist der Kontaktschenkel 110 in Anlage mit einem Anschlag 131 an dem Balkenabschnitt 130 des Strombalkens 13, sodass der Kontaktschenkel 110 in einer definierten Stellung abgestützt ist. In einer solchen, geschlossenen Stellung der Anschlusseinrichtung 1 kann ein Direktstecken einer elektrischen Leitung 2 (ohne Betätigung des Kontaktelements 11) möglich sein.In Figure 1A , 2A and 3A the connecting device 1 is shown in the closed position without the electrical line 2 connected. When the connecting device 1 is closed in this way, the contact leg 110 is in contact with a stop 131 on the bar section 130 of the current bar 13, so that the contact leg 110 is supported in a defined position. In such a closed position of the connecting device 1, it may be possible to plug in an electrical line 2 directly (without actuating the contact element 11).

Die Anschlusseinrichtung 1 weist ein Betätigungselement 14 auf, das in einer Führungsöffnung 104 des Gehäuses 10 aufgenommen und entlang einer Betätigungsrichtung B betätigt werden kann, um das Kontaktelement 11 aus einer geschlossenen Stellung in die Öffnungsstellung zu überführen. Soll das Kontaktelement 11 aus der geschlossenen Stellung ohne angeschlossene elektrische Leitung 2 (Fig. 1A, 2A, 3A) oder aus der geschlossenen Stellung bei angeschlossener elektrischer Leitung 2 (Fig. 1C, 2C) in die Öffnungsstellung (Fig. 1B, 2B, 3B) überführt werden, so kann das Betätigungselement 14 - zum Beispiel unter Verwendung eines Werkzeugs wie eines Schraubendrehers - in die Betätigungsrichtung B in das Gehäuse 10 eingedrückt werden, sodass ein Betätigungsabschnitt 141 des Betätigungselements 14 in Form eines in die Anschlusskammer 101 hinein erstreckten Schafts auf den Kontaktschenkel 110 des Kontaktelements 11 einwirkt und dadurch den Kontaktschenkel 110 in die Öffnungsstellung bewegt. Dabei verrastet der Kontaktschenkel 110 über die Rastabschnitte 114 selbsttätig mit dem Wippenelement 12, indem die Rastabschnitte 114 über den Lagerkopf 124 hinweg bewegt werden und dadurch das Wippenelement 12 mitgenommen und in die erste Kippstellung (Fig. 1B, 2B, 3B) verkippt wird.The connecting device 1 has an actuating element 14 which is accommodated in a guide opening 104 in the housing 10 and which can be actuated along an actuating direction B in order to convert the contact element 11 from a closed position into the open position. If the contact element 11 is to move from the closed position without an electrical line 2 ( Figure 1A , 2A , 3A ) or from the closed position with the electrical line connected 2 ( Figure 1C , 2C ) to the open position ( Figure 1B , 2 B , 3B ) are transferred, the actuating element 14 can be pressed into the housing 10 in the actuating direction B, for example using a tool such as a screwdriver, so that an actuating section 141 of the actuating element 14 in the form of a shaft extending into the connection chamber 101 onto the Contact leg 110 of the contact element 11 acts and thereby moves the contact leg 110 into the open position. The contact leg 110 latches automatically with the rocker element 12 via the latching sections 114 in that the latching sections 114 are moved over the bearing head 124 and the rocker element 12 is thereby taken along and into the first tilted position ( Figure 1B , 2 B , 3B ) is tilted.

Anzumerken ist hierzu, dass - anders als bei dem dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel - das Betätigungselement 14 auch entlang einer quer zur Steckrichtung E gerichteten Betätigungsrichtung an dem Gehäuse 10 verstellbar geführt sein kann, um aus seitlicher Richtung auf den Kontaktschenkel 110 einzuwirken.It should be noted here that—in contrast to the exemplary embodiment shown—actuating element 14 can also be guided adjustably on housing 10 along an actuation direction directed transversely to plug-in direction E, in order to act on contact leg 110 from the side.

Bei dem dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel ist das Wippenelement 12 in einer senkrecht zur Kippachse K gerichteten Ebene symmetrisch geformt, indem die Wippenschenkel 120, 121 gleich lang ausgebildet und symmetrisch zueinander angeordnet sind oder zumindest die Masse der Wippenschenkel 120, 121 zum Herstellen einer Massesymmetrie mit Blick auf die Lagerung an dem Lagerkopf 124 ausgeglichen ist.In the exemplary embodiment shown, the rocker element 12 is symmetrically shaped in a plane perpendicular to the tilting axis K, in that the rocker arms 120, 121 are of the same length and are arranged symmetrically to one another, or at least the mass of the rocker arms 120, 121 to produce a mass symmetry with a view to the Storage at the bearing head 124 is balanced.

Alternativ ist jedoch auch denkbar, das Wippenelement 11 asymmetrisch, zum Beispiel mit ungleich langen Wippenschenkeln 120, 121 auszubilden.Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable for the rocker element 11 to be designed asymmetrically, for example with rocker arms 120, 121 of unequal length.

Das Kontaktelement 11 ist bei dem dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel als Schenkelfeder ausgestaltet, kann beispielsweise aber auch als Zugfeder ausgebildet sein. Das Kontaktelement kann beispielsweise aus einem Federblech gefertigt und als Stanzbiegeteil integral geformt sein.In the exemplary embodiment shown, the contact element 11 is designed as a torsion spring, but it can also be designed as a tension spring, for example. The contact element can be made, for example, from a spring steel sheet and formed integrally as a stamped and bent part.

Während das Kontaktelement 11 federelastisch ausgestaltet sein kann, kann das Wippenelement 12 beispielsweise im Wesentlichen starr geformt, also nicht federnd ausgebildet sein.While the contact element 11 can be designed to be spring-elastic, the rocker element 12 can, for example, be formed essentially rigidly, that is to say not be designed to be springy.

Fig. 4 veranschaulicht die grundlegende Funktionsweise der Anschlusseinrichtung 1. Das Wippenelement 12 dient dazu, den Kontaktschenkel 110 in einer von dem Balkenabschnitt 130 des Strombalkens 13 entfernten Stellung zu verrasten, um ein einfaches Einstecken einer elektrischen Leitung 2 zu ermöglichen. Durch Einwirken auf einen in den Bereich der Stecköffnung 100 hineinragenden Wippenschenkel 120 des Wippenelements 12 kann das Wippenelement 12 verkippt werden, um auf diese Weise die Verrastung mit dem Kontaktschenkel 110 aufzuheben und somit ein selbsttätiges Schließen der Anschlusseinrichtung 1 zu ermöglichen. 4 illustrates the basic mode of operation of the connection device 1. The rocker element 12 serves to latch the contact leg 110 in a position remote from the bar section 130 of the current bar 13 in order to enable an electrical line 2 to be easily plugged in. By acting on a rocker leg 120 of rocker element 12 protruding into the area of plug-in opening 100, rocker element 12 can be tilted in order to cancel the latching with contact leg 110 and thus enable automatic closing of connecting device 1.

Der der Erfindung zugrunde liegende Gedanke ist nicht auf die vorangehend geschilderten Ausführungsbeispiele beschränkt, sondern lässt sich auch in andersgearteter Weise verwirklichen.The idea on which the invention is based is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above, but can also be implemented in a different manner.

Eine Anschlusseinrichtung der hier beschriebenen Art kann in unterschiedlicher Weise eingesetzt werden, beispielsweise an einem Schaltschrank oder an einer anderen elektrischen Anlage zum Anschließen von einer oder mehreren elektrischen Leitungen. Mehrere Anschlusseinrichtungen können hierbei kombiniert miteinander verwendet werden, sodass eine Anschlussanordnung geschaffen werden kann, an die eine Mehrzahl von elektrischen Leitungen angeschlossen werden kann.A connection device of the type described here can be used in different ways, for example in a switch cabinet or in another electrical system for connecting one or more electrical lines. Several connection devices can be used here in combination with one another, so that a connection arrangement can be created to which a plurality of electrical lines can be connected.

Die Anschlusseinrichtung kann insbesondere ein Ausliefern in geöffneter Stellung ermöglichen. Das Kontaktelement kann sicher, zuverlässig und belastbar in der geöffneten Stellung gehalten sein, ohne insbesondere bei Schock- oder Vibrationswirkung ohne weiteres unbeabsichtigt zu schließen.In particular, the connecting device can enable delivery in the open position. The contact element can be held securely, reliably and resiliently in the open position without easily closing unintentionally, particularly in the event of a shock or vibration effect.

BezugszeichenlisteReference List

11
Anschlusseinrichtungconnection device
1010
GehäuseHousing
100100
Stecköffnungplug opening
101101
Anschlusskammerconnection chamber
102102
Gehäuseabschnitthousing section
103103
Anschlagabschnittstop section
104104
Führungsöffnungguide hole
1111
Kontaktelementcontact element
110110
Kontaktschenkelcontact leg
111111
Verbindungsabschnittconnection section
112112
Stützschenkelsupport legs
113113
Lagerabschnittstorage section
114114
Rastabschnittrest section
1212
Wippenelementrocker element
120, 121120, 121
Wippenschenkelseesaw leg
122, 123122, 123
Stützflächesupport surface
124124
Lagerkopfbearing head
1313
Strombalkenpower bar
130130
Balkenabschnittbar section
131131
Anschlagattack
1414
Betätigungselementactuator
140140
KopfHead
141141
Betätigungsendeactuation end
22
LeiterDirector
2020
Leiterendeconductor end
BB
Betätigungsrichtungoperating direction
EE
Steckrichtungmating direction
KK
Kippachsetilt axis

Claims (13)

  1. Connecting device (1) for connecting an electrical line (2), having a housing (10) which has a plug opening (100) for plugging in an electrical line (2), and an electric contact element (11) which is disposed on the housing (10) and from an opening position is adjustable to a contacting position so as to, in the contacting position, electrically contact an electrical line (2) plugged into the plug opening (100), wherein a rocker element (12) which has a bearing head (124), mounted so as to be tiltable on a bearing portion (113) that is stationary relative to the housing (10), and has a rocker leg (120, 121) which extends from the bearing head (124), characterized in that the rocker element (12) in a first tilted position is configured to hold the contact element (11) in the opening position, wherein the rocker element (12), as a result of the electrical line (2) acting on the rocker leg (120) when plugging in the electrical line (2) into the plug opening (100), is tiltable from the first tilted position to a second tilted position so as to release the contact element (11) for transfer to the contacting position, wherein the contact element (11) has at least one latching portion (114) which in the opening position is latched by the rocker element (12).
  2. Connecting device (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the contact element (11) is configured by a spring element.
  3. Connecting device (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the contact element (11) has a support leg (112), which is supported to as to be stationary relative to the housing (10), and a contact leg (110) which for contacting the electrical line (2) is deflectable in a spring-elastic manner relative to the support leg (112).
  4. Connecting device (1) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the contact leg (110) in the opening position of the contact element (11) is elastically tensioned relative to the support leg (112) .
  5. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bearing portion (113) is shaped on the contact element (11).
  6. Connecting device (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the at least one latching portion (114) in the opening position rests against a support face (123) that adjoins the bearing head (124) and, when tilting the rocker element (12) from the first tilted position to the second tilted position for transferring the contact element (11) to the contacting position, is able to be moved above and across the bearing head (124).
  7. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact element (11) is shaped as an integral, bent sheet-metal part.
  8. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rocker element (12) relative to the housing (10) is tiltable about a tilting axis (K) which is oriented so as to be perpendicular to a plane along which the contact element (11) is adjustable between the opening position and the contacting position.
  9. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rocker element (12) on a first side of the bearing head (124) has a first rocker leg (120) for interacting with the electrical line (2), and on a second side of the bearing head (124), facing away from the first side, has a second rocker leg (121).
  10. Connecting device (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the second rocker leg (121) in the second tilted position rests on a detent portion (103) that is stationary relative to the housing (10).
  11. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rocker element (12) is configured to be symmetrical.
  12. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an activating element (14) for acting on the contact element (11), so as to transfer the contact element (11) from the contacting position to the opening position.
  13. Connecting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a current bar (13) for electrically contacting the electrical line (2) in the contacting position of the contact element (11).
EP20189342.7A 2019-08-08 2020-08-04 Connection device for connecting an electrical line Active EP3772777B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102019121442.4A DE102019121442A1 (en) 2019-08-08 2019-08-08 Connection device for connecting an electrical line

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3772777A1 EP3772777A1 (en) 2021-02-10
EP3772777B1 true EP3772777B1 (en) 2023-03-29

Family

ID=71948473

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20189342.7A Active EP3772777B1 (en) 2019-08-08 2020-08-04 Connection device for connecting an electrical line

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3772777B1 (en)
CN (1) CN112350080B (en)
DE (1) DE102019121442A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2944283T3 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102019132316A1 (en) * 2019-11-28 2021-06-02 Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG Spring clamp terminal for conductors
DE102020119372B4 (en) 2020-07-22 2023-12-07 WAGO Verwaltungsgesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung Conductor connection terminal
DE102022100165A1 (en) 2022-01-05 2023-07-06 Phoenix Contact Gmbh & Co. Kg Electrical connection device

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3019149C2 (en) * 1980-05-20 1983-05-05 Phönix Elektrizitätsgesellschaft H. Knümann GmbH & Co KG, 4933 Blomberg Screwless connector
DE19825629B4 (en) * 1998-06-08 2007-06-06 Siemens Ag Spring terminal
CN203250858U (en) * 2013-02-02 2013-10-23 厦门西霸士连接器有限公司 Button type rapid wiring terminal
DE202013100740U1 (en) * 2013-02-19 2013-03-08 Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG Spring terminal for conductor
DE202014103797U1 (en) * 2013-08-27 2014-11-28 Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG Spring terminal for conductor
DE102014114026B4 (en) * 2014-09-26 2023-03-30 Wago Verwaltungsgesellschaft Mbh Conductor terminal and method of assembly
DE102015119407B4 (en) * 2015-11-11 2020-09-03 Phoenix Contact Gmbh & Co. Kg Connection terminal and multiple terminal
DE202017103185U1 (en) * 2016-05-30 2017-09-01 Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG Spring terminal for conductor
AT15515U1 (en) * 2016-06-13 2017-11-15 Benedict Gmbh Spring terminal
DE202016104971U1 (en) * 2016-09-08 2017-12-11 Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG Direct plug-in terminal for a conductor

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN112350080B (en) 2022-04-26
EP3772777A1 (en) 2021-02-10
DE102019121442A1 (en) 2021-02-11
ES2944283T3 (en) 2023-06-20
CN112350080A (en) 2021-02-09

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