Capacitor carrier assembly having a two-piece housing

Abstract

The present invention relates to a capacitor carrier assembly with a two-piece housing. A carrier is configured to house a capacitor, the capacitor including a housing, a first capacitor lead protruding from the housing, and a second capacitor lead protruding from the housing. The carrier includes a first container portion and a second container portion. The first container portion and the second container portion have the same shape and size and define an interior space when assembled together, which receives and holds the capacitor therein.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Capacitors used in electronic devices include capacitor leads that can be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) or other electronic components or devices. For example, the capacitor leads can be electrically connected to connection terminals provided on the PCB. In order to maintain the electrical connection, the capacitor can be mechanically fixed to prevent movement relative to the PCB due to vibration or shock. In some applications, a capacitor carrier mounted to the PCB is used to mechanically fix the capacitor relative to the PCB.

[0002] In some electronic devices that employ capacitors, tin whiskers may grow at the proximal ends of capacitor leads (e.g., where the capacitor leads exit the capacitor housing). Additionally, tin whiskers may grow at locations where the capacitor leads are electrically connected to connection terminals (e.g., adjacent to the distal ends of the capacitor leads). Still further, tin whiskers may grow at locations where the connection terminals are electrically connected to a PCB. If the tin whiskers become broken, the tin whiskers can form undesirable electrical connections between leads or components of the PCB, such as by forming an electrical short. Although it may be possible to prevent the growth of tin whiskers by applying a coating to the capacitor leads and / or using a soldering process to form certain electrical connections, such preventive measures can be expensive to implement in terms of materials and / or labor. Summary of the invention

[0003] In some aspects, a carrier for a capacitor is provided, the capacitor comprising a housing, a first capacitor lead protruding from the housing, and a second capacitor lead protruding from the housing. The carrier comprises: a first container portion comprising a first wall structure configured to receive and support the first portion of the capacitor; and a second container portion comprising a second wall structure configured to receive and support the second portion of the capacitor. The first container portion and the second container portion have the same shape and size. In addition, the first container portion and the second container portion define an interior space when assembled together in an assembled configuration and are configured to receive and hold the capacitor within the interior space.

[0004] In some embodiments, the carrier includes a first conductive connection terminal supported by the carrier, the first connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection between the first capacitor lead and the external device. In addition, the carrier includes a second conductive connection terminal supported by the carrier, the second connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection between the second capacitor lead and the external device. The first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are configured to maintain the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

[0005] In some embodiments, the carrier includes a first support terminal supported by the carrier, the first support terminal being configured to provide a mechanical connection between the carrier and the external device. In addition, the carrier includes a second support terminal supported by the carrier, the second support terminal being configured to provide a mechanical connection between the carrier and the external device. At least one of the first support terminal and the second support terminal is configured to maintain the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first wall structure includes a first through hole, and the second wall structure includes a second through hole. The first through hole and the second through hole are arranged so that when the first container portion and the second container portion are in an assembled configuration, each of the first through holes is aligned with a corresponding one of the second through holes. The carrier includes a conductive first connection terminal disposed in a first one of the first through holes and a corresponding first one of the second through holes, the first connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection to the first capacitor lead. The carrier includes a conductive second connection terminal disposed in a second one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, the second connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection to the second capacitor lead. The first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are configured to keep the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first connection terminal is configured to engage with one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and the second connection terminal is configured to engage with the other of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes. As a result, the first container portion and the second container portion are maintained in an assembled configuration.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first connection terminal is configured to be press-fitted into one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and the second connection terminal is configured to be press-fitted into the other of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first connecting terminal includes elastic protrusions that engage with the inner surface of one of the first through holes and the corresponding one of the second through holes, and the second connecting terminal includes elastic protrusions that engage with the inner surface of the other of the first through holes and the corresponding one of the second through holes.

[0010] In some embodiments, the housing is cylindrical. In addition, each of the first wall structure and the second wall structure includes a bracket portion configured to support the capacitor within the side wall. The curved shape of the bracket portion corresponds to the shape of a portion of the surface of the capacitor.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the first wall structure and the second wall structure includes: a semi-cylindrical portion shaped and sized to receive a portion of a capacitor housing; and a rectangular portion shaped and sized to receive a first capacitor lead and a second capacitor lead.

[0012] In some aspects, a capacitor carrier assembly includes a carrier and a capacitor disposed in the carrier. The capacitor includes a housing, a first capacitor lead, and a second capacitor lead, the first capacitor lead and the second capacitor lead protruding from one end of the housing. The carrier includes: a first container portion, which includes a first wall structure configured to receive and support a first portion of the capacitor; and a second container portion, which includes a second wall structure configured to receive and support a second portion of the capacitor. The first container portion and the second container portion have the same shape and size, and the first container portion and the second container portion define an interior space when assembled together in an assembled configuration and are configured to receive and hold the capacitor within the interior space.

[0013] In some aspects, a capacitor carrier is provided that encapsulates a portion of a capacitor including a joint interface where growth of tin whiskers can occur. By encapsulating a portion of a capacitor including a joint interface where growth of tin whiskers can occur, tin whiskers present in the device are retained within a confined space within the carrier, thereby avoiding the risk of an electrical short circuit condition.

[0014] The carrier is configured to mechanically support the capacitor securely relative to an electronic component or device (such as a PCB) and to provide an electrical connection between the capacitor and the electronic device. The carrier is a receptacle that includes: side walls; a cover that closes the open end of the side walls; and a bracket portion that protrudes from the side walls and cooperates with the cover to hold the capacitor within the carrier. In some embodiments, the cover is formed separately from the side walls, and in other embodiments, one edge of the cover is connected to the side walls via a living hinge.

[0015] The side walls and the cover comprise a wall structure enclosing the capacitor leads, whereby in the event of whisker formation, contact between the whisker and the PCB and its components can be avoided.

[0016] The carrier includes conductive connection terminals that electrically connect the capacitor leads to the PCB. The cover is held in a closed position relative to the side wall via the connection terminals. In some embodiments, the cover held in a closed position relative to the side wall via the connection terminals also includes a latch that secures the cover to the side wall, and in other embodiments, the latch may be omitted.

[0017] In some embodiments, the carrier housing is an assembly of two container-shaped housing parts, and the shapes and sizes of these housing parts are the same. As a result, a single part can be used for the two housing parts, thereby simplifying manufacturing logistics and reducing costs relative to embodiments in which the two housing parts are different.

[0018] In some embodiments, the mating edges of the two container-shaped shells are "shingled," which allows the carrier shell to expand or contract to accommodate capacitors of various diameters while still enclosing the capacitors within the carrier shell. As used herein, the term "shingled" refers to providing sharp-angled mating or joined edges of the shell portions such that when the carrier shell is viewed in a side view, the joined edges overlap. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly shown with the carrier cover open and with the capacitors seated in the carrier.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 1 , shown with the carrier cover closed and with the capacitors seated in the carrier.

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An end view of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 1 , shown with the carrier cover open and with the capacitors positioned in the carrier.

[0022] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a capacitor.

[0023] Figure 5 Is like along Figure 6 As seen on line 5-5 Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A top view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A front perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly shown with the capacitor omitted.

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A rear perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly shown with the capacitor omitted.

[0027] Fig. 9 yes Figure 20014] A bottom perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly shown with the capacitor omitted.

[0028] Fig.10 Is like along Figure 6 Line 10-10 seen Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0029] Fig.11 Is like along Figure 6 Line 11-11 seen Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0030] Fig.12 Is like along Figure 6 Line 12-12 seen Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0031] Fig.13 Is like along Figure 6 Line 13-13 seen Figure 2 0014] A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 10, which is shown with the capacitor omitted.

[0032] Fig.14 Is like along Figure 6 Line 13-13 seen Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 1 showing a capacitor positioned in a carrier.

[0033] Fig.15 Is like along Figure 7 Line 15-15 seen Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 1 , which is shown omitting the capacitors, the connecting terminals and the supporting terminals.

[0034] Fig.16 is a perspective view of the capacitor, connecting terminals and support terminals separated from the rest of the capacitor carrier assembly.

[0035] Fig.17 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment capacitor carrier assembly shown with capacitors positioned in the carrier.

[0036] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 A perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly shown with the first container portion omitted.

[0037] Fig.19 yes Fig.17 An exploded front perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0038] Fig. 20 yes Fig.17 An exploded rear perspective view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0039] Fig.21 yes Fig.17 A front perspective view of a container portion of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0040] Fig. 22 yes Fig.17 A rear perspective view of a container portion of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0041] Fig.23 Is like along Fig.17 Line 23-23 seen Fig.17 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0042] Fig.24 Is like along Fig.17 Line 24-24 seen Fig.17 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0043] Fig.25 Is like along Fig.17 Line 25-25 seen Fig.17 A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0044] Fig.26 Is like along Fig.17 Line 26-26 seen Fig.17 0014] A perspective cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 10, which is shown with the capacitor omitted.

[0045] Fig. 27 Is like along Fig.21 Line 27-27 seen Fig.17 A perspective cross-sectional view of a container portion of a capacitor carrier assembly of FIG. 1 , the capacitor carrier assembly being shown including support terminals.

[0046] Fig.28 yes Fig.17 A perspective view of the connection terminals of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0047] Fig.29 Is like along Fig.17 Line 29-29 seen Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0048] Fig.30 yes Fig.17 A perspective view of the support terminals of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0049] Fig.31 Is like along Fig.17 Line 31-31 seen Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly.

[0050] Fig.32 Is like along Fig.17 Line 32-32 seen Fig.17 0014] A cross-sectional view of a capacitor carrier assembly, wherein the dashed lines represent the packaging chamber and the area within the packaging chamber. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] refer to Figure 1-5 , the capacitor carrier assembly 1 mechanically supports the capacitor 2 relative to an electronic component or device (such as a PCB 18) and provides an electrical connection between the capacitor 2 and the PCB 18. The capacitor carrier assembly 1 includes a carrier 20 and a capacitor 2 disposed in the carrier 20. In addition, the capacitor carrier assembly 1 includes an electrically conductive connection terminal 80 and a support terminal 100. The connection terminal 80 is supported by the carrier 20 and provides an electrical connection between the lead 8 of the capacitor 2 and the contact socket 19 of the PCB 18. The support terminal 100 is supported by the carrier 20 and mechanically fixes the carrier 20 to the PCB 18 together with the connection terminal 80. The carrier 20 is a receptacle that receives and holds the capacitor 2 relative to the PCB 18. In addition, the carrier 20 includes wall structures that enclose the capacitor lead 8, as discussed further below, whereby in the event of whisker formation, contact between the whisker and the PCB 18 and its components can be avoided.

[0052] The capacitor 2 may be, for example, an electrolytic radial capacitor. The capacitor 2 includes a capacitor housing 4 having a generally cylindrical shape, the capacitor housing 4 including a closed first end 5 and an opposite open second end 6. The capacitor housing 4 is elongated along a longitudinal axis 15, which is perpendicular to the first end 5 and the second end 6 of the capacitor and is colinear with the centerline of the housing 4. The second end 6 is plugged via a rubber plug 7, and the housing 4 is crimped around the plug 7 to form a gas-tight seal between the housing 4 and the plug 7. At the crimped position, the housing 4 includes an annular region 14, the diameter of which is reduced relative to the diameter of the housing 4 at each end 5, 6. The annular region 14 extends around the circumference of the capacitor 2 and is disposed near the second end 6 (e.g., between the second end 6 and the midpoint of the capacitor 2).

[0053] The capacitor 2 includes a pair of capacitor leads 8 that protrude longitudinally and linearly from a plug 7 disposed in the second end 6 of the housing. Each of the capacitor leads 8 includes a proximal end 10 corresponding to the location where the capacitor lead 8 leaves the capacitor 2, and a distal end 12 that is opposite the proximal end and spaced apart from the plug 7.

[0054] Also refer to Figure 6-15 The carrier 20 includes a wall structure 21 which is configured to support and at least partially surround the capacitor 2 .

[0055] The wall structure 21 comprises a side wall 23 arranged to form a closed rectangular section. To this end, the side wall 23 comprises a first side 24 and a second side 25, the second side 25 being parallel to the first side 24 and spaced apart from the first side 24 and the capacitor longitudinal axis 15. The side wall 23 comprises a third side 26 facing the second end 6 of the capacitor. The third side 26 connects the first side 24 to the second side 25 and is perpendicular to the first side 24 and the second side 25. The side wall 23 comprises a fourth side 27 facing the first end 5 of the capacitor. The fourth side 27 is parallel to the third side 26 and spaced apart from the third side 26 and connects the first side 24 to the second side 25.

[0056] The first side 24 includes a connection terminal opening 36 disposed near the third side 26 and a support terminal opening 38 disposed near the fourth side 27. Similarly, the second side 25 includes a connection terminal opening 37 disposed near the third side 26 and a support terminal opening 39 disposed near the fourth side 27. The openings 36, 37, 38, 39 receive and hold respective connection terminals 80 and support terminals 100, as discussed in detail below.

[0057] The side wall 23 also includes a bracket 33 that protrudes inwardly from the side wall 23 and is configured to support the capacitor 2 within the side wall. The bracket 33 includes: a first bracket portion 33a that protrudes inwardly from the side wall first side 24; and a second bracket portion 33b that protrudes inwardly from the side wall second side 25 ( Fig. 9 ). Although the first bracket portion 33a and the second bracket portion 33b extend toward each other, there is a gap between them. Each of the first bracket portion 33a and the second bracket portion 33b defines a curved capacitor-facing surface 33c that is concave and when viewed in cross section ( Fig.12 ) has a partially circular profile when viewed in FIG. More specifically, the shape of the surface 33c facing the capacitor corresponds to the shape and size of a portion of the surface of the capacitor housing 4. Figure 2 When the carrier 20 is oriented as shown in FIG. 2 , the capacitor 2 is placed on the bracket 33 and is surrounded by the first side 24 , the second side 25 , the third side 26 and the fourth side 27 .

[0058] In addition to the side wall 23, the wall structure 21 includes a cover 40 that selectively closes one end (eg, upper end) of the side wall 23. The cover 40 closes one end of the side wall 23 and includes a curved portion 48 and a flat portion 49 ( Figure 2). The planar portion 49 of the cover 40 overlies the capacitor leads 8 and the bottom plate member 59a, which is discussed below. The planar portion 49 includes a pair of elongated openings 43, 44 that are configured to receive and retain the ends of the connecting terminals 80, as discussed in detail below. The curved portion 48 of the cover 40 overlies the bracket 33 and the capacitor 2 supported thereon. The inwardly facing surface 41 of the curved portion 48 is concave and when viewed in cross section ( Fig.12 ) has a partially circular profile when viewed in the drawing. More specifically, the shape of the inwardly facing surface 41 of the curved portion 48 corresponds to the shape and size of a portion of the surface of the capacitor housing 4. The curved portion 48 also includes cover openings 47, which advantageously allow for visual inspection to determine whether the capacitor 2 is placed in the carrier 20 (even when the cover 40 is closed). In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 40 includes three relatively large cover openings 47. For example, the sum of the three areas defined by the cover openings 47 is at least half of the total area of ​​the curved portion 48. In addition, the curved portion 48 includes an elongated opening 45 at a position overlying the first side 24 of the side wall. The opening 45 is configured to receive and hold one end of one of the support terminals 100, as discussed in detail below.

[0059] The living hinge 34 extends along the rear edge 46 of the cover 40 and couples the rear edge 46 of the cover 40 to the second side 25 of the side wall 23. Therefore, the cover 40, the living hinge 34 and the side wall 23 are integrally formed. In the illustrated embodiment, the living hinge 34 is a single continuous hinge extending along the curved portion 48, while the planar portion 49 is hinge-free. In other embodiments, the living hinge 34 may be discontinuous. The living hinge 34 is thin relative to the thickness of the side wall second side 25 or the cover 40, so that the living hinge 34 is easy to fold.

[0060] The wall structure 21 also includes floor members 59a, 59b and 59c ( Fig.10 ), these bottom plate members close a portion of an end (e.g., a lower end) of the side wall 23 opposite to the cover 40. The first bottom plate member 59a is a planar member located below the cover plane portion 49. The first bottom plate member 59a extends between the side wall first side 24 and the side wall second side 25, and is adjacent to the side wall third side 26. The second bottom plate member 59b and the third bottom plate member 59c are bent to conform to the shape and size of the outer surface of the capacitor 2, and are located below the cover bent portion 48. The second bottom plate member 59b and the third bottom plate member 59c extend between the side wall first side 24 and the side wall second side 25. The second bottom plate member 59b is disposed between the first bottom plate member 59a and the bracket 33, and supports the second end 6 of the capacitor 2. The third bottom plate member 59c is disposed between the bracket 33 and the side wall fourth side 27, and supports the first end 5 of the capacitor 2.

[0061] The wall structure 21 further includes a first separation member 29 and a second separation member 42 ( Figure 1 and Fig.11 ), the first separating member and the second separating member are configured to engage the capacitor housing 4 along the annular region 14, whereby the capacitor 2 is held in a desired longitudinal position relative to the capacitor carrier 20.

[0062] Specifically, the first separating member 29 protrudes from the second bottom plate member 59b toward the cover 40. The first separating member 29 is in the form of a plane wall parallel to the side wall third side 26 and the side wall fourth side 27. The fixed edge of the first separating member 29 abuts the side wall first side 24, the second bottom plate member 59b and the side wall second side 25. The first separating member 29 includes a free edge 29a facing the cover 40, and the free edge 29a includes a curved first notch 29b. The shape and size of the first notch 29b correspond to the shape and size of the capacitor annular area 14.

[0063] The second separating member 42 protrudes from the curved portion 48 of the cover 40 toward the second base member 59. The second separating member 42 is in the form of a plane wall parallel to the side wall third side 26 and the side wall fourth side 27. The fixed edge of the second separating member 42 abuts the inner surface of the cover curved portion 48. The second separating member 42 includes a free edge 42a facing the second base member 59b, and the free edge 42a includes a curved second cutout 42b. The shape and size of the second cutout 42b correspond to the shape and size of the capacitor annular area 14.

[0064] The first cutout 29b and the second cutout 42b are received within the capacitor annular region 14 and, in combination, extend within the annular region 14 along substantially the entire circumference of the capacitor 2. With this configuration, the first separating member 29 and the second separating member 42 cooperate to form an inner wall 32 that tightly surrounds the capacitor 2 within the annular region 14. As a result, the capacitor 2 is held in a desired longitudinal position relative to the sidewall third side 26 and the sidewall fourth side 27. In addition, any whiskers formed at the proximal end 10 of the capacitor lead 8 are held between the inner wall 32 and the sidewall third side 26.

[0065] The wall structure 21 also includes a T-shaped lead support wall 52 ( Figure 1 and Fig. 9 ), the T-shaped lead support wall protrudes from the first base plate member 59a and is disposed in the carrier 20 between the inner wall 32 and the third side 26 of the side wall 23. There is a small gap between the upper edge of the lead support wall 52 and the planar portion 49 of the cover 40. As used herein, references to directions such as up, down, top, bottom, above, below, above, below, etc. are relative to Figure 2 It should be understood that the capacitor carrier assembly 1 is not limited to the orientation of the capacitor carrier assembly 1 shown in FIG. Figure 2 The orientation shown in is adopted.

[0066] The lead support wall 52 has a transverse portion 54 that is parallel to the side wall third side 26 and the side wall fourth side 27. There is a small gap between the lateral ends of the transverse portion 54 and the corresponding side wall first side 24 and side wall second side 25. In addition, the lead support wall 52 has a longitudinal portion 53 that is parallel to the side wall first side 24 and side wall second side 25 and extends between the side wall third side 26 and the transverse portion 54. The longitudinal portion 53 adjoins the transverse portion 54 at the midpoint of the transverse portion 54 and adjoins the side wall third side 26 at the midpoint of the side wall third side 26. The transverse portion 54 of the lead support wall 52 faces the capacitor second end 6 and includes a first lead receiving notch 55 and a second lead receiving notch 56 that are open along the upper edge of the transverse portion 54. The first lead receiving notch 55 is disposed between the longitudinal portion 53 and the side wall first side 24, and the second lead receiving notch 56 is disposed between the longitudinal portion 53 and the side wall second side 25. When capacitor 2 is positioned in carrier 20 , a first one of capacitor leads 8 extends through first lead receiving cutout 55 , and a second one of capacitor leads 8 extends through second lead receiving cutout 56 .

[0067] With this configuration, the proximal end 10 of the capacitor lead 8 is disposed on a side of the lateral portion 54 opposite to the distal end 12. In addition, the connection terminal 80 is disposed on the opposite side of the lateral portion 54 of the lead support wall 52. The proximal end 10 and the distal end 12 of the capacitor lead (including the position (e.g., the connection position) where the capacitor lead 8 is connected to the connection terminal 80) are enclosed in a closed internal space, which is hereinafter referred to as an encapsulation chamber 50. The encapsulation chamber 50 is defined between the inner wall 32 and the side wall third side 26, between the side wall first side 24 and the portion of the side wall second side 25 adjacent to the third side 26, and between the first bottom plate member 59a and the cover plane portion 49.

[0068] The packaging chamber 50 is configured to hold any whiskers that may form on the capacitor leads 8 therein, thereby preventing contact between the whiskers and the PCB 18 and its components. In addition, the packaging chamber 50 (which includes the lateral portion 54 of the lead support wall 52) isolates the locations where the capacitor leads 8 are connected to the connection terminals 80 from the lead proximal ends 10. Further, the packaging chamber 50 (which includes the longitudinal portion 53 of the lead support wall 52) isolates the locations where the capacitor leads 8 are connected to the connection terminals 80 from each other. Isolating the locations where the capacitor leads 8 are connected to the connection terminals 80 from the lead proximal ends 10 and from each other prevents whiskers from forming electrical shorts between the capacitor leads 8.

[0069] refer to Figure 5 and Fig.16, the capacitor carrier assembly 1 includes a pair of conductive connection terminals 80 and a pair of conductive support terminals 100. The connection terminals 80 and the support terminals 100 mechanically fix the carrier 20 to the PCB 18. Additionally, the connection terminals 80 electrically connect the capacitor leads 8 to the PCB contact socket 19. Further, one of the support terminals 100 and the connection terminals 80 mechanically fix the cover 40 to the sidewall 23. The connection terminals 80 and the support terminals 100 will now be described in detail.

[0070] At a position adjacent to the second end 6 of the capacitor and the capacitor lead 8, the connection terminal 80 is press-fitted into connection terminal openings 36, 37 provided in the carrier 20.

[0071] Each connection terminal 80 is a conductive thin plate, which includes a first end 81, a second end 82 opposite to the first end 81, and an intermediate midpoint 78 disposed between the first end 81 and the second end 82. Each connection terminal 80 includes: a first side edge 90, which extends between the first end 81 and the second end 82; and a second side edge 91, which is parallel to the first side edge 90 and extends between the first end 81 and the second end 82. The connection terminal 80 is elongate such that the distance between the first side edge 90 and the second side edge 91 is less than the distance between the first end 81 and the second end 82. Each connection terminal 80 includes a first surface 93 and a second surface 94 opposite to the first surface 93. The first surface 93 and the second surface 94 are defined by the first end 81, the second end 82, the first side edge 90, and the second side edge 91.

[0072] The second end 82 of the connection terminal includes a plug 89, which is configured to be press-fitted into a conductive socket. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end 82 of the connection terminal includes a pair of plugs 89, which are arranged side by side and are configured to be received in the contact socket 19 of the PCB 18. In use, the plug 89 provides an electrical and mechanical connection between the connection terminal 80 and the PCB 18.

[0073] The first side edge 90 and the second side edge 91 of each connection terminal 80 include a serrated region 98. Specifically, the serrated region 98 is disposed on each of the first side edge 90 and the second side edge 91 at a position disposed between the first end 81 and the midpoint 78. The serrated region 98 includes a series of closely spaced protruding ridges 74, and each ridge 74 terminates in a vertex 76.

[0074] Each connection terminal 80 includes a cover retaining portion 83, a PCB connection portion 84, and a body portion 85 disposed between the cover retaining portion 83 and the PCB connection portion 84.

[0075] The connecting terminal cover retaining portion 83 includes the connecting terminal first end 81 and the indented region 98. The cover retaining portion 83 is configured to be received and retained within corresponding openings 43, 44 in the cover 40, as discussed further below.

[0076] The connection terminal PCB connection portion 84 includes the connection terminal second end 82 of the connection terminal 80 including the pair of connector plugs 89 received in the contact receptacles 19 of the PCB 18 .

[0077] The connecting terminal body portion 85 extends between the cover holding portion 83 and the PCB connecting portion 84 and includes a flange 92 that protrudes from the lateral side edge 90 of the connecting terminal 80. The flange 92 protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the second surface 94 (e.g., the side of the body portion 85 facing the capacitor). The body portion 85 (except for the flange 92) is coplanar with the cover holding portion 83 and the PCB connecting portion 84 and resides in a plane parallel to the sidewall first side 24 and the sidewall second side 25.

[0078] The flange 92 provides an insulation displacement connector (IDC) 88 that is configured to receive and form an electrical connection with the capacitor lead 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the IDC 88 is a narrow V-shaped cutout that is open upward, for example, toward the carrier cover 40. In use, the body portion 85 is electrically connected to the capacitor lead 8 at a connection location 86 corresponding to the joint between the corresponding capacitor lead 8 and the IDC 88. Since the capacitor lead 8 forms an electrical connection to the connection terminal 80 via the IDC 88, the capacitor 2 is electrically connected to the PCB 18 via the connection terminal 80. The flange 92 (including the connection location 86) is disposed in the packaging chamber 50, whereby the electrical connection between the capacitor lead 8 and the connection terminal 80 is encapsulated.

[0079] The portion of the body portion 85 disposed between the flange 92 and the PCB connection portion 84 is a planar plate having a shape and size suitable for press-fitting into the connection terminal openings 36 , 37 provided in the side wall 23 at a position adjacent to the capacitor second end 6 , thereby securing the carrier 20 to the corresponding connection terminals 80 .

[0080] The support terminal 100 is a conductive terminal that is press-fitted into the support terminal openings 38 , 39 provided in the side wall 23 at a location adjacent to the capacitor first end 5 .

[0081] The support terminal 100 is similar to the connecting terminal 80. For this reason, common elements are referred to by common reference numerals, and the description of the common elements is not repeated. The support terminal 100 is different from the connecting terminal 80 in that the support terminal 100 does not include a flange 92 or an IDC 88. In addition, the first side edge 90 and the second side edge 91 of the support terminal 300 each include a shoulder 95, which corresponds to the position where the body portion 85 is widened. The shoulder 95 is arranged between the serrated area 98 and the second end 82 of the support terminal.

[0082] In addition, although the support terminal 100 is conductive and the support terminal plug 89 is received in the contact socket 19 of the PCB 18, the support terminal 100 is not electrically connected to the capacitor 2. Therefore, the support terminal 100 provides a mechanical connection between the carrier 20 and the PCB 18, and does not provide an electrical connection between the capacitor 2 and the PCB 18.

[0083] Although the cover 40 is fixed to the side wall 23 by two connection terminals 80 and the frontmost support terminal 100, the cover 40 may also include a latch 60. The latch 60 is a supplementary fixing feature that ensures that the cover 40 remains fixed to the side wall 23 regardless of extreme use conditions (e.g., in applications involving large vibrations or mechanical shocks), thereby allowing the capacitor carrier 20 to function reliably (e.g., retaining the capacitor 2 therein and maintaining electrical connection to the PCB contact socket 19). The latches 60 are arranged on the side of the carrier 20 opposite to the living hinge 34 and are spaced apart from each other.

[0084] Each latch 60 includes a hook portion 62 and a loop portion 63 that engages the hook portion 62, thereby preventing the cover 40 from pivoting about the living hinge 34. The hook portion 62 protrudes outward from the outer surface of the first side 24 of the side wall. When the carrier 20 is viewed facing the first side 24 of the side wall, the hook portion 62 has a rectangular profile. The hook portion 62 has an angled outwardly facing surface 66. The upper end of the outwardly facing surface 66 is flush with the first side 24 of the side wall, and the lower end of the outwardly facing surface 66 is spaced apart from the first side 24 of the side wall, whereby the cross-section of the hook portion has a right-angled triangular profile. The lower edge 68 of the hook portion 62 is parallel to the first floor member 59a and provides an engagement surface adjacent to the surface of the loop portion 63. The loop portion 63 is a straight ring that hangs down from the forward-facing surface of the cover 40 and defines a through opening 64. When the cover 40 closes the open end of the side wall 23, the loop portion 63 overlies the first side 24 of the side wall at a position corresponding to the corresponding hook portion 62. Additionally, when lid 40 is closed, hook portion 62 is received within through opening 64 and an upwardly facing edge 65 of through opening 64 engages a lower edge 68 of hook portion 62 along a lower end of loop portion 63 , thereby preventing lid 40 from pivoting about living hinge 34 .

[0085] Although carrier 20 is shown with two latches 60, it should be understood that carrier 20 may include a greater or lesser number of latches as desired for a particular application. In addition, it is contemplated that there are applications where latches may be omitted, such as shown in the second embodiment capacitor carrier described below.

[0086] refer to Figure 17-32 The capacitor carrier assembly 201 of the alternative embodiment includes a carrier 220 of the alternative embodiment and a capacitor 2 placed in the carrier 220. In addition, the capacitor carrier assembly 201 includes a connection terminal 280 and a support terminal 300 of the alternative embodiment. Figure 17-32 The capacitor carrier assembly 201 shown in FIG. 1 is similar to the capacitor carrier assembly 201 shown in FIG. Figure 1-16 The capacitor carrier assembly 1 described is similar in that the connection terminals 280 are supported by the carrier 220 and provide an electrical connection between the leads 8 of the capacitor 2 and the contact sockets 19 of an electronic component or device, such as a PCB 18. The support terminals 300 are supported by the carrier 20 and, together with the connection terminals 280, mechanically secure the carrier 220 to the PCB 18. Like the carrier 20, the carrier 220 is a receptacle that receives and holds the capacitor 2 relative to the PCB 18. In addition, the carrier 220 includes wall structures that enclose the capacitor leads 8, as discussed further below, thereby preventing contact between the whiskers and the PCB 18 and its components in the event of whisker formation.

[0087] The carrier 220 includes a first container portion 222(1) configured to receive and support a first portion of the capacitor 2, and a second container portion 222(2) configured to receive and support a second portion of the capacitor 2. The first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) are each a half shell having an open side 227 and define an interior space configured to receive and hold the capacitor 2 when assembled together.

[0088] The first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) each have the same shape and size, so that the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) are identical. By using two identical parts to provide the carrier 220, manufacturing costs are reduced, and parts logistics and assembly are simplified, as compared to, for example, the embodiments described earlier. Since the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) have the same shape and size, only the first container portion 222(1) will be described in detail, and it will be referred to as "container portion 222".

[0089] The container portion 222 includes a wall structure 221 that provides: a semi-cylindrical portion 204 shaped and sized to receive and support a portion of the capacitor housing 4; and a rectangular prism portion 206 shaped and sized to receive a first capacitor lead and a second capacitor lead.

[0090] The wall structure 221 providing the semi-cylindrical portion 204 forms a hollow structure having a generally semi-cylindrical shape. Specifically, the wall structure 221 providing the semi-cylindrical portion 204 defines a half of a cylinder, wherein the cylinder has been cut in half along its height direction. As a result, the wall structure 221 includes: a generally planar first side 224; a generally planar second side 225, which is parallel to the first side 224 and spaced apart from the first side; and a third side 226, which extends between the first side 224 and the second side 225. The third side 226 is curved so as to partially surround a container portion longitudinal axis 234, which is parallel to the cylinder height direction and perpendicular to the first side 224 and the second side 225.

[0091] When the capacitor 2 is placed in the carrier 220, the respective inner surfaces 224a, 225a, 226a of the first side 224, the second side 225, and the third side 226 face the capacitor 2. The respective outer surfaces 225b, 226b of the second side 225 and the third side 226 define a portion of the outer surface of the container portion 222. The first side 224 has in common with the rectangular prism portion 206, whereby the outer surface 224b of the first side 224 forms a portion of the packaging chamber 250, as discussed below.

[0092] The first side 224 has a free or exposed first edge 261, and the second side 225 has a free or exposed second edge 262. The curved third side 226 has a free or exposed third edge 263, and a free or exposed fourth edge 264, which is parallel to the third edge 263 and spaced apart from the third edge. When the container portion 222 is observed facing the open side 227, the corresponding first edge 261, the second edge 262, the third edge 263 and the fourth edge 264 of the semi-cylindrical part 204 form a rectangular profile together. The first edge 261, the third edge 263 and the fourth edge 264 are at an acute angle relative to the corresponding inner and outer surfaces 224a, 224b, 225a and 225b, 226a and 226b of the corresponding first side 224, the second side 225 and the third side 226. In addition, the third edge 263 and the fourth edge 264 are parallel to each other.

[0093] The inner surface 226a of the curved third side 226 provides a bracket 233 configured to support the capacitor 2 within the side wall. When viewed in cross section, the bracket 233 has a partially circular profile ( Fig.26). More specifically, the shape of the bracket 233 corresponds to the shape and size of a portion of the surface of the capacitor case 4.

[0094] In some embodiments, the bracket 233 may include a deformable capacitor support structure that prevents the capacitor 2 from moving around within the carrier during use under vibration and / or shock conditions. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 233 includes two circumferentially spaced crush ribs 233a that protrude radially inward from the third side inner surface 226 ( Fig.21 , Fig. 22 ). The extrusion rib 233 has a generally triangular profile, and the apex of each extrusion rib 233a is configured to be extruded or deformed to accommodate capacitors of different diameters. As an alternative to using the extrusion rib 233a, the bracket 233 may include an elastic spring feature (not shown) that protrudes inwardly from the third side inner surface 226a and elastically accommodates capacitors of different diameters.

[0095] When capacitor 2 is placed in Fig.18 When the carrier 220 is oriented as shown in FIG. 2 , the capacitor 2 is placed on the bracket 233 and is partially surrounded by the first side 224 , the second side 225 , the third side 226 and surrounded by their respective edges 261 , 262 , 263 , 264 .

[0096] The outer surface 226b of the third side 226 is truncated to provide a flat portion 218 parallel to the open side 227. The third side 226 also includes a single container opening 247 disposed on the flat portion 218. The container opening 247 advantageously allows for determining whether the capacitor 2 is disposed in the carrier 220 during visual inspection.

[0097] The wall structure 221 providing the semi-cylindrical portion 204 comprises a separating member 229 which is configured to engage the capacitor housing 4 along the annular region 14, whereby the capacitor 2 is held in a desired longitudinal position relative to the capacitor carrier 20. Specifically, the separating member 229 protrudes from the inner surface 226a of the third side 226 towards the open side 227 in a direction perpendicular to the inner surface 226a of the third side. The separating member 229 is parallel to the first side 224 and the second side 225 and comprises a free edge 229a facing the open side 227. The free edge 229a comprises a curved (semi-circular) separating member cutout 229b. The shape and size of the separating member cutout 229b correspond to the shape and size of a portion of the circumference of the housing 4. Specifically, the shape and size of the separating member cutout 229b correspond to the shape and size of a portion of the circumference of the capacitor annular region 14.

[0098] The wall structure 221 providing the rectangular prism portion 206 includes four side wall portions arranged to form a frame (e.g., a closed rectangular section). Specifically, the four side wall portions include: a first transverse portion corresponding to a first side 224 common to the semi-cylindrical portion 204; and a planar second transverse portion 251 parallel to the first side 224. The first side 224 and the second transverse portion 251 each extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis 234.

[0099] The four side wall portions include a planar first longitudinal portion 252 extending between the first side 224 and the second transverse portion 251 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 234 and slightly inward relative to the third edge 263. In addition, the four side wall portions include a planar second longitudinal portion 253 extending between the first side 224 and the second transverse portion 251 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 234 and slightly inward relative to the fourth edge 264. The wall structure 221 providing the rectangular prism portion 206 also includes a planar third longitudinal wall portion 254 extending between the first side 224 and the second transverse portion 251 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 234 and disposed between the first longitudinal portion 252 and the second longitudinal portion 253.

[0100] When the capacitor 2 is placed in the carrier 220, the outer surface 224b of the first side 224, the inner surface 251a of the second transverse portion 251, and the respective inner surfaces 252a, 253a of the first longitudinal portion 252 and the second longitudinal portion 253 face the capacitor leads 8. When the capacitor 2 is placed in the carrier 220, the third longitudinal portion 254 is placed between the capacitor leads 8. The respective outer surfaces 252b, 253b, 251b of the first longitudinal portion 252, the second longitudinal portion 253, and the second transverse portion 251 define portions of the outer surface of the container portion 222.

[0101] The wall structure 221 providing the rectangular prism portion 206 includes a floor member 259 that closes the end of the frame opposite the open side 227. The floor member 259 is planar and parallel to the open side 227. The perimeter of the floor member 259 abuts each of the first side 224, the second transverse portion 251, the first longitudinal portion 252, and the second longitudinal portion 253.

[0102] The first longitudinal portion 252 has a fifth free or exposed edge 265, the second longitudinal portion 253 has a sixth free or exposed edge 266, and the third longitudinal portion 254 has a seventh free or exposed edge 267. When the container portion 222 is viewed facing the open side 227, the corresponding first edge 261, the fifth edge 265, the sixth edge 266, and the seventh edge 267 of the rectangular prism portion 206 together form a rectangular profile. Each of the fifth edge 265, the sixth edge 266, and the seventh edge 267 is at an acute angle relative to the inner and outer surfaces 252a and 252b, 253a and 253b, 254a and 254b of the corresponding first longitudinal portion 252, the second longitudinal portion 253, and the third longitudinal portion 254. In addition, the fifth edge 265, the sixth edge 266, and the seventh edge 267 are parallel to each other.

[0103] The first side 224 (corresponding to the first lateral portion) has a first free or exposed edge 261, and the second lateral portion 251 has an eighth free or exposed edge 268. In addition, the first side 224 and the second lateral portion 251 each have a discontinuity in a height dimension. As a result, a first portion 261(1), 268(1) of the respective first edge 261 and eighth edge 268 has a first height dimension, and a second portion 261(2), 268(2) of the first edge 261 and eighth edge 268 has a second height dimension, wherein the height dimensions correspond to the distance of the respective edges 261, 268 from the bottom plate member 259, and wherein the first portion 261(1), 268(1) is the portion closest to the third edge 263, and the second portion 261(2), 268(2) is the portion closest to the fourth edge 264. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 261(1), 268(1) is shorter than the second portion 261(2), 268(2).

[0104] Each of the first portions 261(1), 268(1) of the first edge 261 and the eighth edge 268 and the second portions 261(2), 268(2) of the first edge 261 and the eighth edge 268 is at an acute angle relative to the inner and outer surfaces 224a and 224b, 251a and 251b of the respective first side 224 and the second lateral portion 251. The first portion 261(1) of the first edge 261 is parallel to the first portion 268(1) of the eighth edge 268, and the second portion 261(2) of the first edge 261 is parallel to the second portion 268(2) of the eighth edge 268, wherein the angles of the first portions 261(1), 268(1) are opposite to the angles of the second portions 261(2), 268(2).

[0105] The first portion 261 ( 1 ) and the second portion 261 ( 2 ) of the first edge 261 each include a curved cutout 270 shaped and sized to receive the capacitor lead 8 in a clearance fit manner.

[0106] The first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) are assembled together so that the free edge of the first container portion faces the corresponding free edge of the second container portion 222(2). Specifically, the first edge 261 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the first edge 261 of the second container portion 222(2), the second edge 262 of the first container portion 222(1) faces and is parallel to the second edge 262 of the second container portion 222(2), the third edge 263 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the fourth edge 264 of the second container portion 222(2), and the fourth edge 264 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the third edge 263 of the second container portion 222(2). , the fifth edge 265 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the sixth edge 266 of the second container portion 222(2), the sixth edge 266 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the fifth edge 265 of the second container portion 222(2), the seventh edge 267 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the seventh edge 267 of the second container portion 222(2), and the eighth edge 268 of the first container portion 222(1) is adjacent to and parallel to the eighth edge 268 of the second container portion 222(2). As a result, when the first container portion 222(1) is assembled with the second container portion 222(2), each of the joined edges 261, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268 is "shingled" such that the joined edges 261, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268 overlap when viewed along a plane 235 that includes the open side 227 (e.g., from a point within the plane). Because each of the joined edges 261, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268 is shingled, the carrier 220 can be expanded to accommodate capacitors 2 of various sizes while still enclosing the capacitors 2.

[0107] refer to Figure 17-18 , Fig. 22 and Fig.32When the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) are in an assembled configuration, the respective semi-cylindrical portions 204 of each of the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) cooperate to provide a cylindrical chamber for receiving the capacitor housing 4. The separation member 229 of the first container portion 222(1) cooperates with the separation member 229 of the second container portion 222(2) to form an inner wall 232. In addition, the separation member cutout 229b of the first container portion 222(1) and the separation member cutout 229b of the second container portion 222(2) are received within the capacitor annular region 14 and extend within the annular region 14 substantially along the entire circumference of the capacitor 2. With this configuration, the separation members 229 of the respective first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) cooperate to tightly surround the capacitor 2 within the annular region 14, and the capacitor 2 is held in a desired longitudinal position relative to the carrier 220.

[0108] The proximal end 10 and the distal end 12 of the capacitor lead 8 (including the connection position 32 where the capacitor lead 8 is connected to the connection terminal 280) are enclosed in a closed internal space, which is hereinafter referred to as the encapsulation chamber 250. The encapsulation chamber 250 is defined between the inner wall 232 and the second transverse portion 251, between the first longitudinal portion 252 and the second longitudinal portion 253, and between the respective bottom plate members 259 of the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2).

[0109] The packaging chamber 250 is configured to retain any whiskers that may form on the capacitor leads 8 therein, thereby preventing contact between the whiskers and the PCB 18 and its components. In addition, the packaging chamber 250 is isolated into three separate packaging areas 241, 242, 243 that separate the respective connection locations 86 of the capacitor leads 8 from each other and from the proximal ends 10 of the capacitor leads 8. Specifically, the packaging chamber 250 includes a first area 241 defined between the inner wall 232, the first side 224, and corresponding portions of the third side 226. The first area 241 encapsulates the proximal end 10 of each capacitor lead 8. The packaging chamber 250 includes a second area 242 defined between the first side 224, the second transverse portion 251, the first longitudinal portion 252, the third longitudinal portion 254, and the respective bottom plate members 259 of the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2). The second region 242 encapsulates the connection location 86 and the distal end 12 of one of the capacitor leads 8. In addition, the encapsulation chamber 250 includes a third region 243 defined between the first side 244, the second transverse portion 251, the first longitudinal portion 252, the third longitudinal portion 254, and the respective floor members 259 of the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2). The third region 243 encapsulates the connection location 86 and the distal end 12 of another of the capacitor leads 8.

[0110] Each of the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) includes a connection terminal opening 236, 237 configured to receive and retain a corresponding connection terminal 280. A first one 236 of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 extends through the bottom plate member 259 at a position adjacent to the first longitudinal portion 252, and a second one 237 of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 extends through the bottom plate member 259 at a position adjacent to the second longitudinal portion 253.

[0111] In addition, each of the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) includes a support terminal opening 238, 239 configured to receive and retain a corresponding support terminal 300. A first 238 of the support terminal openings 238, 239 extends through a first boss 248 disposed on an outer surface 226b of the third side 226. The first boss 248 is located at the intersection of the third free edge 263 and the second side 225. A second 239 of the support terminal openings 238, 239 extends through a second boss 249 disposed on an outer surface 226b of the third side 226. The second boss 249 is located at the intersection of the fourth free edge 264 and the second side 225.

[0112] With this configuration, when the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) are in the assembled configuration, each of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 of the first container portion 222(1) is aligned with a corresponding one of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 of the second container portion 222(2). Similarly, when the first container portion 222(1) and the second container portion 222(2) are in the assembled configuration, each of the support terminal openings 238, 239 of the first container portion 222(1) is aligned with a corresponding one of the support terminal openings 238, 239 of the second container portion 222(2).

[0113] In addition to the first container portion 222 ( 1 ) and the second container portion 222 ( 2 ) of the carrier 220 , the capacitor carrier assembly 201 also includes a connection terminal 280 and a support terminal 300 .

[0114] refer to Fig.28 and Fig.29 , the connection terminals 280 are press-fitted into the connection terminal openings 236, 237. Each connection terminal 280 is a conductive thin plate, which includes a first end 281, a second end 282 opposite to the first end 281, and a midpoint 278 disposed in the middle between the first end 281 and the second end 282. Each connection terminal 280 includes: a first side edge 290 extending between the first end 281 and the second end 282; and a second side edge 291 parallel to the first side edge 290 and extending between the first end 281 and the second end 282. The connection terminal 280 is elongated so that the distance between the first side edge 290 and the second side edge 291 is smaller than the distance between the first end 281 and the second end 282. Each connection terminal 280 includes a first surface 293 and a second surface 294 opposite to the first surface 293. The first surface 293 and the second surface 294 are defined by the first end 281, the second end 282, the first side edge 290, and the second side edge 291.

[0115] The second end 282 of the connection terminal includes a plug 289 that is configured to be press-fitted into a conductive socket. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end 282 of the connection terminal includes a pair of plugs 289 that are arranged side by side and configured to be received in the contact socket 19 of the PCB 18. In use, the plugs 289 provide an electrical and mechanical connection between the connection terminal 280 and the PCB 18.

[0116] The first side edge 290 and the second side edge 291 of each connection terminal 280 include a first serrated area 298 and a second serrated area 299. Specifically, the first serrated area 298 is disposed on each of the first side edge 290 and the second side edge 291 at a position disposed between the first end 281 and the midpoint 278. In addition, the second serrated area 299 is disposed on each of the first side edge 290 and the second side edge 291 at a position disposed between the midpoint 278 and the second end 282. Each serrated area 298, 299 includes a series of closely spaced protruding ridges 274, wherein each ridge 274 terminates in a vertex 276.

[0117] Each connection terminal 280 includes a first elastic member 272 and a second elastic member 273 protruding from a first surface 293. Specifically, the first elastic member 272 protrudes from the first surface 293 at a position disposed between the first end 281 and the midpoint 278 so that its side surface is the sawtooth of the first sawtooth region 298. In addition, the second elastic member 273 protrudes from the first surface 293 at a position disposed between the midpoint 278 and the second end 282 so that its side surface is the sawtooth of the second sawtooth region 299. Therefore, each elastic member 272, 273 is spaced apart from the first end 281, the second end 282, the first side edge 290, and the second side edge 291. In the illustrated embodiment, the first elastic member 272 and the second elastic member 273 are generally rectangular leaf springs, which are integrally formed with the connecting terminal 280, for example, by a process including the following steps: cutting a portion of the outline of the elastic members 272, 273 in a stamping step, followed by a deformation step, whereby the distal end 272a, 273a of each of the elastic members 272, 273 is bent so as to protrude from the first surface 293.

[0118] Each of the connection terminals 280 includes a cover holding portion 283 , a PCB connection portion 284 , and a body portion 285 disposed between the cover holding portion 283 and the PCB connection portion 284 .

[0119] The connection terminal cover retaining portion 283 includes a connection terminal first end 281 and a first indented region 298. The cover retaining portion 283 is configured to be received and retained within a corresponding connection terminal opening 236, 237 of the first container portion 222(1).

[0120] The connection terminal PCB connection portion 284 includes a connection terminal second end 282 of the connection terminal 280 including the pair of connector plugs 289 received in the contact sockets 19 of the PCB 18 .

[0121] The connecting terminal body portion 285 extends between the cover retaining portion 283 and the PCB connecting portion 284, and includes a second serrated area and a flange 292. The flange 292 protrudes from the first side edge 290 of the connecting terminal 280. The flange 292 is arranged between the first serrated area 298 and the second serrated area 299, and protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the second surface 294 of the connecting terminal 280. That is, the flange 292 protrudes from the side of the connecting terminal 280 facing the capacitor. In use, the flange 292 is parallel to the second end 6 of the capacitor.

[0122] The flange 292 provides an insulation displacement connector (IDC) 88 that is configured to receive and form an electrical connection with the capacitor lead 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the IDC 88 is a narrow V-shaped cutout that is open upward, for example, open toward the container partially open side 227. In use, the connection terminal 280 is electrically connected to the capacitor lead 8 at a connection location 86 corresponding to the joint between the corresponding capacitor lead 8 and the IDC 88. Since the capacitor lead 8 forms an electrical connection to the connection terminal 280 via the IDC 88, the capacitor 2 is electrically connected to the PCB 18 via the connection terminal 280. The flange 292 (which includes the connection location 86) is placed in the packaging chamber 250, whereby the electrical connection between the capacitor lead 8 and the connection terminal 280 is encapsulated.

[0123] In use, the first container portion 222(1) is assembled with the second container portion 222(2), such as Fig.17 , and the connection terminal 280 is press-fitted into each of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 of the first container portion 222 (1) so that the first serrated area 298 engages with the inner surface of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 of the first container portion 222 (1). In addition, the connection terminal 280 is press-fitted into the connection terminal openings 236, 237 of the second container portion 222 (2) so that the first surface 293 and the second surface 294 are parallel to the longitudinal axis 234, and so that the second serrated area 299 engages with the inner surface of the connection terminal openings 236, 237 of the second container portion 222 (2).

[0124] Furthermore, the distal tip 272a, 273a of each elastic member 272, 273 engages a shoulder 236a, 237a ( Fig.29 ). The shoulders 236a, 237a are parallel to the open side 227 and face away from the open side 227. With this configuration, the first elastic member 272 and the second elastic member 273 cooperate to prevent the first container portion 222 (1) from separating from the second container portion 222 (2) in a direction perpendicular to the open side 227.

[0125] refer to Fig.30 and Fig.31 , the support terminal 300 is similar to the connecting terminal 280. For this reason, common elements are referred to by common reference numerals, and the description of the common elements is not repeated. The support terminal 300 is different from the connecting terminal 280 in that the support terminal 300 does not include a flange 292 or an IDC 88. Instead, each of the first side edge 290 and the second side edge 291 of the support terminal 300 includes a low-profile rectangular protrusion 392. The protrusion 392 is arranged between the first serrated area 298 and the second serrated area 299 and protrudes in a direction parallel to the second surface 294 of the support terminal 300. The protrusion 392 serves as a stopper to prevent the support terminal 300 from being over-inserted into the corresponding support terminal openings 238, 239 of the second container portion 222 (2).

[0126] In addition, although the support terminal 300 is conductive and the support terminal plug 289 is received in the contact socket 19 of the PCB 18, the support terminal 300 is not electrically connected to the capacitor 2. Therefore, the support terminal 300 provides a mechanical connection between the carrier 220 and the PCB 18, and does not provide an electrical connection between the capacitor 2 and the PCB 18.

[0127] In use, the first container portion 222(1) is assembled with the second container portion 222(2), such as Fig.17 , and the support terminal 300 is press-fitted into each of the support terminal openings 238, 239 of the first container portion 222 (1) so that the first serrated area 298 engages with the inner surface of the support terminal openings 238, 239 of the first container portion 222 (1). In addition, the support terminal 300 is press-fitted into the support terminal openings 238, 239 of the second container portion 222 (2) so that the first surface 293 and the second surface 294 are parallel to the longitudinal axis 234, and the second serrated area 299 engages with the inner surface of the support terminal openings 238, 239 of the second container portion 222 (2).

[0128] Furthermore, the distal end 272a, 273a of each resilient member 272, 273 engages a shoulder 236a, 237a ( Fig.31 ). The shoulders 236a, 237a are parallel to the open side 227 and face away from the open side 227. With this configuration, the first elastic member 272 and the second elastic member 273 cooperate to prevent the first container portion 222 (1) from separating from the second container portion 222 (2) in a direction perpendicular to the open side 227.

[0129] Therefore, the carrier assembly 1 includes two features for maintaining the first container portion 222 (1) in an assembled configuration with the second container portion 222 (2): first, each of the connecting terminals 280 and the supporting terminals 300 mechanically engages both the first container portion 222 (1) and the second container portion 222 (2) via the first serrated area 298 and the second serrated area 299; and second, each of the connecting terminals 280 and the supporting terminals 300 mechanically engages both the first container portion 222 (1) and the second container portion 222 (2) via the elastic members 272, 273.

[0130] In the illustrated embodiment, the capacitor carrier assembly mechanically supports capacitor 2 relative to PCB 18 and provides an electrical connection between capacitor 2 and PCB 18. It should be understood that the capacitor carrier assembly can support capacitor 2 relative to other electronic components or devices and is not limited to use with PCBs.

[0131] Selected illustrative embodiments of capacitor carrier assemblies are described above in considerable detail. It should be understood that only structures considered necessary to illustrate the capacitor carrier assembly are described herein. Other conventional structures, as well as those in the accessory and auxiliary components of the capacitor carrier assembly, are assumed to be known and understood by those skilled in the art. In addition, although working examples of capacitor carrier assemblies have been described above, the capacitor carrier assembly is not limited to the working examples described above, and various design changes may be implemented without departing from the capacitor carrier assembly as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A carrier for a capacitor, the capacitor comprising a housing, a first capacitor lead protruding from the housing, and a second capacitor lead protruding from the housing, the carrier include: a first container portion including a first wall structure configured to receive and support a first portion of the capacitor; as well as a second container portion including a second wall structure configured to receive and support a second portion of the capacitor, in The first container portion and the second container portion have the same shape and size, and the first container portion and the second container portion define an interior space when assembled together in an assembled configuration and are configured to receive and retain the capacitor within the interior space; Wherein, the carrier comprises: an electrically conductive first connection terminal supported by the carrier, the first connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection between the first capacitor lead and an external device; and a conductive second connection terminal supported by the carrier, the second connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection between the second capacitor lead and the external device, wherein the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are configured to hold the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion; a first support terminal supported by the carrier, the first support terminal being configured to provide a mechanical connection between the carrier and the external device; and a second support terminal supported by the carrier, the second support terminal being configured to provide a mechanical connection between the carrier and the external device, Wherein, at least one of the first support terminal and the second support terminal is configured to maintain the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

2. The vector according to claim 1, wherein The first wall structure comprises a first through hole, The second wall structure comprises a second through hole, The first through-holes and the second through-holes are arranged such that each of the first through-holes is aligned with a corresponding one of the second through-holes when the first container portion and the second container portion are in an assembled configuration, and in, The carrier comprises: a conductive first connection terminal disposed in a first one of the first through holes and a corresponding first one of the second through holes, the first connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection to the first capacitor lead, a conductive second connection terminal disposed in a second one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, the second connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection to the second capacitor lead, Wherein, the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are configured to hold the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

3. The vector according to claim 2, wherein The first connection terminal is configured to engage with one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and The second connection terminal is configured to engage with the other of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, Thereby, the first container part and the second container part are maintained in the assembled configuration.

4. The vector according to claim 3, wherein The first connection terminal is configured to be press-fitted into one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and The second connection terminal is configured to be press-fitted into the other one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes.

5. The vector according to claim 3, wherein The first connection terminal includes an elastic protrusion that engages with an inner surface of one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and The second connection terminal includes an elastic protrusion that engages with inner surfaces of the other of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes.

6. The vector according to claim 1, wherein The housing is cylindrical, and Each of the first and second wall structures includes a bracket portion configured to support the capacitor within the first and second wall structures, the bracket portion having a curved shape corresponding to a shape of a portion of a surface of the capacitor.

7. The vector according to claim 1, in, Each of the first wall structure and the second wall structure comprises: a semi-cylindrical portion shaped and sized to receive a portion of the capacitor housing, and A rectangular portion is shaped and sized to receive the first capacitor lead and the second capacitor lead.

8. A capacitor carrier assembly comprising a carrier and a capacitor disposed in the carrier, wherein The capacitor include: shell; a first capacitor lead; as well as a second capacitor lead, the first capacitor lead and the second capacitor lead protrude from one end of the housing, and the carrier comprises: a first container portion including a first wall structure configured to receive and support a first portion of the capacitor; and a second container portion including a second wall structure configured to receive and support a second portion of the capacitor, in The first container portion and the second container portion have the same shape and size, and the first container portion and the second container portion define an interior space when assembled together in an assembled configuration and are configured to receive and retain the capacitor within the interior space; Wherein, the carrier comprises: an electrically conductive first connection terminal supported by the carrier, the first connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection between the first capacitor lead and an external device; and a conductive second connection terminal supported by the carrier, the second connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection between the second capacitor lead and the external device, wherein the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are configured to hold the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion; a first support terminal supported by the carrier, the first support terminal being configured to provide a mechanical connection between the carrier and the external device; and a second support terminal supported by the carrier, the second support terminal being configured to provide a mechanical connection between the carrier and the external device, Wherein, at least one of the first support terminal and the second support terminal is configured to maintain the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

9. The capacitor carrier assembly of claim 8, wherein The first wall structure comprises a first through hole, The second wall structure comprises a second through hole, The first through-holes and the second through-holes are arranged such that each of the first through-holes is aligned with a corresponding one of the second through-holes when the first container portion and the second container portion are in an assembled configuration, and in, The carrier comprises: a conductive first connection terminal disposed in a first one of the first through holes and a corresponding first one of the second through holes, the first connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection to the first capacitor lead, a conductive second connection terminal disposed in a second one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, the second connection terminal being configured to provide an electrical connection to the second capacitor lead, Wherein, the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are configured to hold the first container portion in an assembled configuration with the second container portion.

10. The capacitor carrier assembly of claim 9, wherein The first connection terminal is configured to engage with one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and The second connection terminal is configured to engage with the other of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, Thereby, the first container part and the second container part are maintained in the assembled configuration.

11. The capacitor carrier assembly of claim 10, wherein The first connection terminal is configured to be press-fitted into one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and The second connection terminal is configured to be press-fitted into the other one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes.

12. The capacitor carrier assembly of claim 10, wherein The first connection terminal includes an elastic protrusion that engages with an inner surface of one of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes, and The second connection terminal includes an elastic protrusion that engages with inner surfaces of the other of the first through holes and a corresponding one of the second through holes.

13. The capacitor carrier assembly of claim 8, wherein The housing is cylindrical, and Each of the first and second wall structures includes a bracket portion configured to support the capacitor within the first and second wall structures, the bracket portion having a curved shape corresponding to a shape of a portion of a surface of the capacitor.

14. The capacitor carrier assembly according to claim 8, in, Each of the first wall structure and the second wall structure comprises: a semi-cylindrical portion shaped and sized to receive a portion of the capacitor housing, and A rectangular portion is shaped and sized to receive the first capacitor lead and the second capacitor lead.

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