Patent ID: 6692292
Filing Date: 2004-02-17
Classification: H01R

Abstract:
A terminal block assembly adapted for connection with an insulated electrical conductor, comprising:(a) a generally rectangular horizontally arranged terminal block body (4) formed of electrical insulating material and containing at least one open-topped chamber; (b) a stationary resilient electrical terminal (12) mounted in said chamber, said terminal including: (1) a horizontal bifurcated first contact means (18) terminating at a first end in bifurcated knife means (20), said first contact means extending longitudinally of said terminal block body and having an other end; and (2) a vertical support portion (40) having an upper end connected with said stationary contact other end, said vertical support portion having a lower end; (c) a vertically arranged actuator member (30) mounted in said chamber for displacement between disengaged and engaged positions relative to said stationary contact, said actuator member having an upper end containing a vertical bore (34) for receiving one end of the insulated conductor when said actuator member is in said disengaged position, said actuator member being operable during displacement toward said engaged position to cause the layer of insulation in the conductor to be pierced by said knife means and thereby effect electrical engagement between said stationary contact and the electrical conductor; and (d) stationary second contact means (42) carried by the other end of said vertical terminal portion, said second contact means including: (1) at least one horizontal female jack connector (46); and (2) a horizontal male connector (44) that extends laterally outwardly beyond said terminal block body.