Electrical connector with recordable position assurance

Abstract

An electrical connector (102) having recordable position assurance includes a housing (118), an indicator feature (162), and a concealing feature (134). The housing is configured to engage a mating connector (104) during a mating operation. The indicator feature has a visual identifier disposed thereon. The indicator feature and the concealing feature are movable relative to one another between a concealed position and an exposed position. The concealing feature conceals at least a portion of the visual identifier in the concealed position. The visual identifier is exposed or can be exposed in the exposed position. The indicator feature is in the exposed position relative to the concealing feature when the housing is fully mated to the mating connector, and is in the concealed position relative to the concealing feature when the housing and the mating connector are not fully mated.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 202010829822.6, application date November 21, 2016, and invention title "Electrical Connector with Recordable Position Assurance". Technical Field

[0002] This article generally deals with electrical connector systems. Some electrical connector systems and / or their components include recordable features used to record and log the presence, location, characteristics, etc., of the connector system during the manufacturing or assembly process. For example, features indicating whether a first connector mates with a complementary second connector can be recorded. It may be useful to record the mating of the first and second connectors to verify that such a connection has been made during assembly and / or to verify the presence of the first and second connectors in a larger product being assembled (e.g., an automobile or an appliance). Such data can be stored in a database. Background Technology

[0003] One known mechanism for recording the mating of a first connector with a second connector utilizes a fastener, such as a screw or bolt, configured to be twisted. The fastener connects the first connector to the second connector, or to a structure on which the second connector is mounted. The connector system can be configured such that the fastener can only engage the first and second connectors when they are fully mated or at least nearly fully mated. The torque on the fastener can be a measured and recorded characteristic to indicate that the first and second connectors have mated. However, this known mechanism for recording the torque on the fastener to indicate the mating of a pair of connectors has several disadvantages. For example, the fastener may not be a necessary component in the mating process between the first and second connectors, making its primary purpose as a recordable feature. However, the use of fasteners increases component costs, adds assembly steps and complexity, and consumes valuable space along the connector system. For example, the connector system may be configured to be loaded into a narrow compartment. The fastener may interfere with wiring or other components in the compartment, and / or there may not be sufficient clearance in the compartment for tools to engage and actuate the fastener. Furthermore, torque measurement is only for the engaged fasteners, not for the electrical connectors or the connector system. Therefore, workers may mistakenly or intentionally circumvent the installation of fasteners and the recording of torque on the fasteners in order to record that the first pair of connectors has mated by recording the torque on different fasteners between different second pair connectors and associating that amount with the first pair of connectors in the log or database.

[0004] Another mechanism is still needed to record information about the electrical connector system or its components during the manufacturing or assembly process. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The aforementioned problem is addressed by an electrical connector with recordable position assurance as described herein. This electrical connector includes a housing, at least one electrical conductor, an indicator feature, and a concealed feature. The housing has a mating interface configured to engage complementary mating connectors during mating operation. The at least one electrical conductor is held within the housing. The at least one electrical conductor is configured to engage and electrically connect to one or more corresponding mating conductors of the mating connector. The indicator feature is carried by the housing. The indicator feature has a visual identifier disposed thereon. The concealed feature is carried by the housing. The indicator feature and the concealed feature are movable relative to each other between a concealed position and an exposed position. In the concealed position, the concealed feature conceals at least a portion of the visual identifier. The visual identifier is at least one of being exposed or exposed in the exposed position. When the housing is not fully mated relative to the mating connector, the indicator feature is in the concealed position relative to the concealed feature. When the housing is fully mated to the mating connector, the indicator feature is in the exposed position relative to the concealed feature. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electrical connector system according to an embodiment, showing a first connector ready to mate with a second connector.

[0008] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an electrical connector system is shown, illustrating the first connector mating with the second connector.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a side perspective view of an electrical connector system according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 3 The top perspective view of the first connector of the illustrated embodiment, with the lever in the closed position.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a rear perspective view of the lever of the first connector according to an embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a side view of the first connector of an electrical connector system according to another embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 It is based on Figure 6 A side view of the first connector of the illustrated embodiment shows a lever in a closed position relative to the housing.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the first connector of a connector system according to another embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 The diagram shows the connector position assurance (CPA) element and rail of the first connector and the lug of the second connector when the first connector is fully engaged with the second connector.

[0016] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a portion of the first connector of a connector system according to yet another embodiment.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a portion of the first connector of a connector system formed according to another embodiment.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a top perspective view of the first connector according to another embodiment.

[0019] Figure 13 It is based on Figure 12 Top perspective view of the first connector of the illustrated embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electrical connector system 100 according to an embodiment, including a first connector 102 and a second connector 104. The first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are configured to directly mate together. Figure 1 In the illustration, the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are shown as unmated but ready to mate with each other. The first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are used to provide a conductive signal transmission path across the interface between connectors 102 and 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 102 terminates to a cable, wire, or wire harness 106. The second connector 104 terminates to an electrical device, such as a server, computer, printed circuit board (e.g., daughter card or motherboard), microprocessor, router, etc. The second connector 104 may optionally be a plug connector, mounted to the structure or housing 108 of a mechanical or electrical device (e.g., server chassis, transmission, power steering system, etc.). The first connector 102 is configured to move in a mating direction 110 to mate with the second connector 104. In an alternative embodiment, both connectors 102 and 104 may be cable-mount connectors, or both connectors 102 and 104 may be structural-mount plug connectors.

[0021] The first connector 102 includes a housing 118 and a plurality of conductors 120 held by the housing 118. The conductors 120 are electrically connected to wires in a cable 106. The conductors 120 are configured to engage and be electrically connected to a corresponding mating conductor 122 of the second connector 104 when connectors 102 and 104 are mated. The conductor 122 of the second connector 104 is held by a housing 124 of the second connector 104. Although in Figure 1 In the present invention, the first connector 102 and the second connectors 102 and 104 respectively include a plurality of conductors 120 and 122, but in an alternative embodiment, the connectors 102 and 104 may include only one corresponding conductor 120 and 122.

[0022] In an embodiment, the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are configured to mate with each other during a manufacturing or assembly process. It may be useful to record that the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 have mated to track progress during the manufacturing or assembly process and to verify if questions or issues arise later regarding whether the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 have mated. In an exemplary embodiment, the first connector 102 includes a visual identifier 112. The visual identifier 112 is associated with the corresponding first connector 102. For example, the visual identifier 112 may identify the first connector 102, for example, via a part number. The visual identifier 112 may also be associated with the second connector 104, for example, by identifying the second connector 104 to which the first connector 102 is configured to mate, or by identifying a broader electrical connector system 100. The visual identifier 112 may also be associated with a larger machine or device to which the first connector 102 is a component, such as a specific type or model of automobile or appliance. For example, the visual identifier 112 may provide the part number of the first connector 102 and the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the automobile in which the first connector 102 is assembled. In an alternative embodiment, as an alternative to or addition to the first connector 102, a visual identifier 112 may be provided on the second connector 104.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the first connector 102 is configured such that when the first connector 102 is not engaged with the second connector 104, the visual identifier 112 is concealed or hidden, and when the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are engaged, the visual identifier 112 is exposed or at least exposed. As used herein, "exposed" means that the article can be exposed by normal operation without requiring undue force that could damage one or more components. In the illustrated embodiment, the visual identifier 112 is drawn in dashed lines to indicate that the visual identifier 112 is concealed. Therefore, the first connector 102 is capable of switching between a concealed state in which the visual identifier 112 is concealed and an exposed state in which the visual identifier 112 is exposed. In the concealed state, the visual identifier 112 cannot be detected by the sensor 114 (in... Figure 2(As shown in the diagram) viewing and reading. Therefore, when connectors 102 and 104 are not mated, the information on visual identifier 112 cannot be read and recorded. This mechanism prevents connectors 102 and 104 from being incorrectly logged as mated when they are not actually mated. Visual identifier 112 can only be viewed to record that connectors 102 and 104 are mated when they are actually mated. Therefore, connector system 100 provides recordable positional assurance that the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are mated with each other.

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an electrical connector system 100 shows a first connector 102 mating with a second connector 104. Since the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 have mated, a visual identifier 112 is disclosed or exposed. Figure 2 The visual identifier 112 shown is a one-dimensional barcode comprising a series of parallel lines. In other embodiments, the barcode label 112 may be a two-dimensional or matrix barcode or a three-dimensional barcode including a depth component. In other embodiments, the visual identifier 112 is not a barcode, but may be a letter, shape, color, symbol, etc. Although the visual identifier 112 is not limited to a barcode, in some embodiments, the visual identifier 112 is a barcode, and the visual identifier 112 is referred to herein as barcode label 112.

[0025] Barcode label 112 can be viewed or read by sensor 114. Sensor 114 can be a handheld or mounted barcode scanner. Sensor 114 may include a light source and a photodetector to read barcode label 112. Optionally, sensor 114 may include a camera. Sensor 114 can be communicatively coupled to database 116, such that data acquired by sensor 114 is transferred to database 116 for storage. Database 116 may reside on a tangible and non-transitory computer-readable storage device. The storage device may be computer memory, such as random access memory (RAM) or a hard disk drive, or the storage device may be a removable storage drive, such as a solid-state device, optical drive, external hard disk drive, flash drive, etc. Database 116 can be remotely accessed from sensor 114 and subsequently accessed to access information about connector system 100 and / or the vehicle, appliance, or other machine or device to which connector system 100 is mounted. For example, by recording the information contained in the barcode label 112 in the database 116, the database 116 can be accessed remotely and / or at a subsequent date and time to verify that the first connector 102 has been mated to the second connector 104.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the first connector 102 includes an indicating feature and a hidden feature. A barcode label 112 is disposed on the indicating feature. The indicating feature and the hidden feature are movable relative to each other. For example, the indicating feature may be configured to move when the hidden feature is stationary, the hidden feature may be configured to move when the indicating feature is stationary, or the two features may be configured to move in different directions. The indicating feature and the hidden feature are movable between a hidden position and an exposed position. In the hidden position, the hidden feature conceals at least a portion of the barcode label 112, including the indicating feature. For example, the entire barcode label 112 or a portion of the barcode label 112 may be covered or obscured by the hidden feature in the hidden position. In some types of barcodes, such as two-dimensional barcodes, covering half or even less than half of the barcode may prevent a reader from being able to interpret any or some information contained in the barcode.

[0027] The portion of the indicator feature including the barcode label 112 is at least one of exposed or exposed in an exposed position, such that the barcode label 112 can be viewed and read by the sensor 114. In the exposed position, all information contained in the barcode label 112 can be read by the sensor 114. In an embodiment, the indicator feature is exposed relative to the concealed feature only when the housing 118 is fully engaged with the second connector 104. When the housing 118 is not fully engaged with the second connector 104, the indicator feature is concealed relative to the concealed feature. In an alternative embodiment, the indicator feature is exposed relative to the concealed position when the housing 118 is not fully engaged with the second connector 104, and the indicator feature is concealed or concealable only when the housing 118 is fully engaged with the second connector 104. In such an alternative embodiment, the sensor 114 cannot view and read the barcode label 112, indicating that the connectors 102, 104 are fully engaged.

[0028] Both the indicating and concealing features are carried by the housing 118. As used herein, a feature “carried by the housing” means that the feature is an integrated part of the housing 118; is disposed on, within, or through the housing 118; or is directly or indirectly connected to the housing 118 such that movement of the housing 118 also moves the “carried” feature. For example, as used herein, a feature indirectly connected to the housing 118 via a rotatable lever is carried by the housing.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a side perspective view of an electrical connector system 100 according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, a first connector 102 is prepared to mate with a second connector 104. The first connector 102 includes a barcode label 112 (in... Figure 4 (in the middle), but barcode label 112 in Figure 3The barcode label 112 is not visible because it is hidden. The barcode label 112 is hidden because the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 do not mate in the illustrated embodiment. The barcode label 112 is... Figure 4 Exposure in the middle, Figure 4 A first connector 102 in a mating position is shown. For example, as described in more detail herein, when the first connector 102 is not mated with the second connector 104, the barcode label 112 is hidden by a concealed feature of the first connector 102. However, when the first connector 102 is fully mated relative to the second connector 104, the barcode label 112 is exposed or at least exposed relative to the concealed feature. As used herein, "exposed" means capable of being exposed or revealed by reasonable effort using a conventional actuation mechanism. When the barcode label 112 can be detected by sensor 114 (in... Figure 2 (As shown in the image) When reading, barcode label 112 is exposed.

[0030] The housing 118 of the first connector 102 includes a mating end 126 and a terminating end 128. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 126 is oriented along a plane that is transverse to the plane along which the terminating end 128 is oriented. For example, the first connector 102 may be a right-angle connector, such that the mating end 126 is perpendicular to the terminating end 128. In an alternative embodiment, the first connector 102 may be a straight connector, such that the mating end 126 and the terminating end 128 are parallel and substantially collinear. Electrical conductor 120 (in Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) It is held within housing 118. Housing 118 defines a configuration interface 130 configured to engage the second connector 104 (or another complementary mating connector) during mating operation. For example, mating interface 130 is configured to engage housing 124 of the second connector 104. In an embodiment, mating interface 130 is configured to be received at least partially within an inner chamber 132 of housing 124. Alternatively, mating interface 130 may define an inner chamber therein receiving at least a portion of housing 124 of the second connector 104 during mating operation.

[0031] In an embodiment, housing 118 includes a top wall 136, a bottom wall 138, a left side wall 140, a right side wall 142, and a front wall 144. As used herein, relative or spatial terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” and “right” are used only to distinguish the referenced elements and do not necessarily require a specific location or orientation within the first electrical connector 102, the electrical connector system 100, or the environment surrounding the electrical connector system 100. Mating interface 130 extends from the bottom wall 138 and is at least partially defined by the left side wall 140, the right side wall 140, and the front wall 144.

[0032] In one embodiment, housing 118 includes a lever 134. Lever 134 is movably coupled to housing 118. For example, lever 134 may be configured to rotate, pivot, or slide relative to housing 118. Lever 134 is configured to provide a mating aid that reduces the amount of force required to engage the first connector 102 and the second connector 104. Lever 134 is movable relative to housing 118 between an open position and a closed position. For example, lever 134 is configured to engage the second connector 104 and pull the corresponding housings 118, 124 of the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 toward each other as lever 134 moves from the open position to the closed position. Lever 134 is configured such that when lever 134 is in the closed position, the first connector 102 is fully mated to the second connector 104, and when lever 134 is not in the closed position, the first connector 102 is not fully mated to the second connector 104. When lever 134 is in the open position, or in an intermediate position between the open and closed positions, lever 134 is not in the closed position. Figure 3 The middle is in the open position, and in Figure 4 It is in a closed position.

[0033] exist Figures 3 to 7 In the illustrated embodiment, lever 134 is configured to rotate or pivot from an open position to a closed position in a curved locking direction 160 to provide engagement assistance. In an alternative embodiment not shown, lever 134 may slide relative to housing 118 from an open position to a closed position. For example, lever 134 may include a wedge that pulls the corresponding housings 118, 124 of the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 toward each other as lever 134 advances in a linear locking direction (not shown). Therefore, as used herein, the term "lever" includes features that move via sliding motion and is not limited to features that move via rotational and / or pivoting motion.

[0034] Figure 3 The lever 134 has a generally U-shaped structure, comprising two arms 146 and a handle 148, the handle 148 extending between and connecting the two arms 146. The arms 146 are pivotally coupled to a left side wall 140 and a right side wall 142, such that a first arm 146A is coupled to the left side wall 140 and a second arm 146B is coupled to the right side wall 142. Each arm 146 defines a pivot aperture 152 in which a corresponding pivot element 154 (referred to herein as a post 154) of the housing 118 is received. The post 154 extends from the left side wall 140 and the right side wall 142, although... Figure 3Only the post 154 on the left side wall 140 is visible. The lever 134 is connected to the housing 118 via an engagement between the post 154 and the edge of an arm 146 defining and surrounding a pivot aperture 152. The post 154 is a fixed axis, and the arm 146 of the lever 134 pivots about the post 154. Alternatively, the post 154 may be pivotable relative to the housing 118. In an alternative embodiment, the lever 134 comprises an integral post that serves as an axis and is received within a bore in the housing 118.

[0035] Each arm 146 defines a curved track 150 adjacent to the aperture 152. The curved track 150 is configured to engage components of the housing 124 of the second connector 104. For example, the housing 124 may include at least two protrusions 156 (referred to herein as rods 156) extending at least partially from the inner surface 158 of the housing 124 into the inner chamber 132. The rods 156 are configured to receive in the corresponding curved track 150 of the arm 146 during engagement. Rotating or pivoting the lever 134 about the post 154 causes the curved track 150 to move relative to the rods 156. As the lever 134 displaces or pivots from the open position to the closed position, the edge of the curved track 150 engages the rods 156 and pulls the rods 156 toward the post 154 in a straight direction. When the lever 134 reaches the closed position, the first connector 102 is fully engaged relative to the second connector 104, such that the conductor 120 of the first connector 102 (in...) Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) it fully engages with the corresponding conductor 122 of the second connector 104. In some alternative embodiments, the arm 146 of the lever 134 may include a hook instead of a curved track to engage the rod 156, and / or the lever 134 may include a protrusion received within a groove or curved track in the housing 124.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 102 further includes a connector position assurance (CPA) element 162 configured to provide assurance that the first connector 102 is fully engaged with the second connector 104 during mating operations. For example, the CPA element 162 is movable between a first position and a second position. When the first connector 102 is not fully engaged with the second connector 104, the CPA element 162 is positioned in the first position and movement of the CPA element 162 to the second position is restricted until the first connector 102 is fully engaged with the second connector 104. The CPA element 162 may be configured to automatically move to the second position due to mechanical means when the connectors 102, 104 are fully engaged. Alternatively, the fully engaged connectors 102, 104 do not move the CPA element 162, but instead allow the CPA element 162 to move to the second position by removing a mechanical obstruction that restricts movement to the second position.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, CPA element 162 is coupled to handle 148 of lever 134. Although not in Figure 3 As shown, barcode label 112 (in Figure 4 (As shown in the diagram) is disposed on CPA element 162. For example, CPA element 162 includes a base portion 164 and a flange portion 166, the flange portion 166 extending from the base portion 164 and bending out of the plane of the base portion 164. A barcode label 112 is disposed on a first side 168 of the base portion 164 facing the handle 148. Because the barcode label 112 is disposed on CPA element 162, in the illustrated embodiment, CPA element 162 defines an indicative feature of the first connector 102. In the illustrated embodiment, CPA element 162 is in a first position. When CPA element 162 is in the first position, a segment 170 of handle 148 conceals the barcode label 112. Therefore, handle 148 of lever 134 defines a concealed feature of the first connector 102. The first position of CPA element 162 may be referred to as the concealed position. Optionally, handle 148 defines a window 172 extending through handle 148. Window 172 is located between the first end 174 and the second end 176 of handle 148, such that window 172 is inside the periphery of handle 148.

[0038] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 3 The top perspective view of the first connector of the illustrated embodiment, with lever 134 in the closed position. Figure 3 The second connector 104 is not shown in the diagram. Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, although it can be recognized that lever 134 in the closed position indicates that the first connector 102 is fully engaged with the second connector 104. Therefore, in Figure 4 In the following description, it is assumed that the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 are fully mated to each other.

[0039] CPA element 162 is shown in a second position. In the second position, the barcode label 112 is exposed relative to a concealed feature (e.g., segment 170 of the handle 148). Therefore, the second position of CPA element 162 can be referred to herein as the exposed position. To transition from the concealed position to the exposed position, CPA element 162 moves in a revealing direction 178 extending generally from the second end 176 of the handle 148 toward the first end 174. In an embodiment, movement of CPA element 162 in the revealing direction 178 to the exposed position is limited until lever 134 is in the closed position, indicating that the first connector 102 has fully engaged. Figure 5 An exemplary mechanism is shown that restricts the movement of CPA element 162 until lever 134 is in the closed position.

[0040] Figure 5This is a rear perspective view of the lever 134 of the first connector 102 according to an embodiment. The lever 134 is shown in the open position, while the CPA element 162 is shown in the concealed position. The CPA element 162 is coupled to the rear side 180 of the handle 148. The barcode label 112 is shown in dashed lines because it is located on the first side or front side 168 of the CPA element 162 (in...). Figure 3 (as shown in the image). Figure 5 As shown, when the CPA element 16 is in the hidden position, the barcode label 112 is not aligned with the window 172 of the handle 148. The barcode label 112 is positioned between the window 172 and the second end 176 of the handle 148. The CPA element 162 is configured to move toward the first end 174 of the handle 148 in the revealing direction 178 to align the barcode label 112 with the window 172.

[0041] CPA element 162 may be held between two lugs 182 or rails projecting from rear side 180. Lugs 182 may extend partially around a second side or rear side 186 of CPA element 162 to hold CPA element 162 abutting or at least close to the rear side 180 of handle 148. Base 164 may include laterally extending fingers 184 that engage lugs 182 to prevent CPA element 162 from detaching from handle 148. Handle 148 defines two deflectable protrusions 188 biased to extend at least partially rearward from the rear side 180 of handle 148. For example, protrusions 188 may be cantilevered, having a fixed end 190 directly attached to handle 148 and a free end 192 indirectly attached to handle 148 via fixed end 190. In an embodiment, protrusions 188 in a stationary, undeflected state are configured to block the path of movement of CPA element 162 to limit movement from a concealed position to an exposed position. For example, the free end 192 of the protrusion 188 can engage the top edge 194 of the CPA element 162, for example, along the finger 184 of the CPA element 162.

[0042] Now back Figure 3 In one embodiment, the housing 118 of the first connector 102 defines two protrusions 198 projecting from the top wall 136 of the housing 118. The protrusions 198 are positioned such that when the lever 134 is moved to the closed position, each protrusion 198 engages a corresponding one of the deflectable protrusions 188. Now back to... Figure 5The protrusion 198 forces the protrusion 188 to deflect toward the surface of the rear side 180 of the handle 148, and optionally beyond the surface of the rear side 180, which moves the protrusion 188 out of the path of movement of the CPA element 162. Therefore, when the lever 134 is in the closed position, the protrusion 188, which normally hinders movement of the CPA element 162 in the disclosure direction 178, is deflected out of the path of the CPA element 162 by the protrusion 198, allowing the CPA element 162 to be moved to the exposed position. The CPA element 162 can be configured to be moved by an operator pushing or pulling the flange portion 166 in the disclosure direction 178. Although the illustrated embodiment shows two protrusions 188 and two corresponding protrusions 198 on the housing 118, alternative embodiments may include only one protrusion 188 and one protrusion 198, or more than two protrusions 188 and protrusions 198. In the description... Figure 5 When considering the mechanism shown, it should be understood that the subject matter of the invention described herein is not limited to this one example mechanism. Other mechanisms may be used to prevent the movement of CPA element 162 until lever 134 is in the closed position.

[0043] Now back Figure 4 When the CPA element 162 is in the exposed position, the barcode label 112 is aligned with and exposed through the window 172 of the handle 148. The barcode label 112 can be detected through the window by the sensor 114 (in... Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram) Viewing and reading. The barcode label 112 in the illustrated embodiment is a one-dimensional barcode, which includes a series of parallel lines spaced apart from each other. The number, width, and arrangement of the lines and spaces convey specific information. This information can identify the first connector 102 and / or the connector system 100 (as shown in the diagram) by providing, for example, part number, manufacturer, part name, etc. Figure 3 (As shown in the diagram). This information can also identify the vehicle, electrical appliance, or other machine or device to which the connector system 100 is installed. The barcode label 112 may be printed, painted, etched, or otherwise formed directly on the CPA element 162. Alternatively, the barcode label 112 may be formed on a sticker, film, etc., and subsequently glued or otherwise attached to the CPA element 162. In other embodiments, the barcode may be a two-dimensional matrix barcode or a three-dimensional barcode, rather than a one-dimensional barcode.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment, when the CPA element 162 is in the exposed position, the barcode label 112 is positioned outside the periphery of the handle 148, rather than being exposed through a window in the handle 148. For example, the size and / or shape of the CPA element 162 may be configured such that when in the exposed position, the top edge 194 (in...) Figure 5As shown in the diagram, the first end 174 protrudes beyond the handle 148, and the barcode label 112 is exposed outside (or on the outside) of the first end 174. In another alternative embodiment, the CPA element 162 may be coupled to one of the arms 146 of the lever 134 instead of the handle 148.

[0045] Figure 6 It is a connector system 100 according to another embodiment (in Figure 1 A side view of the first connector 102 (shown in the image). Lever 134 is pivotally connected to housing 118 at pivot element 154 or post. Figure 6 In the diagram, lever 134 is in the open position relative to housing 118. A barcode label 112 is disposed on the outer surface 202 of housing 118, such that the wall of housing 118 defines an indicative feature in the illustrated embodiment. The barcode label 112 is concealed by a segment 204 of lever 134, which defines a concealment feature when housing 118 is not fully engaged with a mating connector (e.g., Figure 3 When the second connector 104 shown is in use, it conceals the barcode label 112. The barcode label 112 is shown in dashed lines because it is hidden by segment 204 of the lever 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the barcode label 112 is disposed on the outer surface 202 of the left side wall 140 of the housing 118, and segment 204 is the first arm 146A of the lever 134, which is disposed along the left side wall 140.

[0046] Arm 146A defines a recessed portion 206 along its first edge 208. The recessed portion 206 is a notch or cutout in arm 146A that extends from the first edge 208 toward a second edge 210, but does not fully extend to the second edge 210. The recessed portion 206 and... Figure 3 The window 172 shown is similar, except that the recess 206 is not limited to one side at the first edge 208.

[0047] Figure 7 It is based on Figure 6 A side view of the first connector 102 of the illustrated embodiment shows a lever 134 in a closed position relative to the housing 118. (As shown) Figure 7As shown, when lever 134 pivots to the closed position, the recessed portion 206 of lever 134 aligns with the barcode label 112 on the housing 118, making the barcode label 112 exposed and visible through the recessed portion 206. Therefore, the barcode label 112 is exposed relative to the first arm 146A of the previously concealed barcode label 112. The size and shape of the recessed portion 206 correspond to the size and shape of the barcode label 112 to expose the entire area of ​​the barcode label 112. Although the barcode label 112 is rectangular in the illustrated embodiment, in other embodiments, the barcode label 112 may be square, circular, elliptical, etc.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment, the recessed portion 206 may be defined along the second edge 210 of the arm 146A instead of along the first edge 208, or the arm 146A may be defined with... Figure 3 The window 172 shown is similar to a regular window, but instead of a recessed portion along one of the edges 208, 210. Additionally, a second barcode label can be positioned on the right side wall 142 of the housing 118 (in...). Figure 3 (shown in the middle) as Figure 6 and Figure 7 The replacement or addition of the first barcode label 112 on the left side wall 140 shown makes the second arm 146B of the lever 134 ( Figure 3 Hide the second barcode label until lever 134 is in the closed position.

[0049] In another alternative embodiment, a barcode label 112 is disposed on the inner surface (not shown) of the lever 134 as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 An alternative to the barcode label 112 shown is located on the housing 118. The housing 118 defines a concealed feature. For example, the barcode label 112 may be disposed on a protrusion or portion of the lever 134, which is aligned with and faces one side of the housing 118 when the lever 134 is in the open position. However, when the lever 134 is pivoted to the closed position, the protrusion or portion of the lever 134 having the barcode label 112 protrudes beyond the side of the housing 118 (e.g., vertically or laterally) to expose the barcode label 112, thereby allowing the barcode label 112 to be read.

[0050] Figure 8 It is a connector system 100 according to another embodiment (in Figure 1A perspective view of the first connector 102 (shown in the figure). The housing 118 of the first connector 102 optionally does not include levers providing mating assistance. In the illustrated embodiment, a barcode label 112 is disposed on the outer surface 202 of the housing 118. For example, the barcode label 112 may be located on the front end wall 144, such that the front end wall 144 of the housing 118 defines an indicating feature. The housing 118 also includes a CPA element 214 coupled to the outer surface 202. The CPA element 214 extends through the barcode label 112 to define a concealment feature that conceals the barcode label 112 when the housing 118 is not fully mated to a mating connector (e.g., the second connector 104). In the illustrated embodiment, as the mating interface 130 engages the second connector 104, the CPA element 214 is configured to engage the second connector 104 and slide relative to the housing 118 in a disclosure direction 216 to expose the barcode label 112 when the housing 118 is fully mated to the second connector 104. Therefore, since CPA element 214 only slides relative to housing 118 when housing 118 is fully engaged with second connector 104, CPA element 214 provides position assurance. CPA element 214 is referred to herein as sliding insert 214. The disclosed direction 216 extends toward top wall 136 away from mating end 126 of housing 118.

[0051] In one embodiment, the slidable insert 214 is a flat plate held in a track 218 between two rails 220 extending along the outer surface 202 of the housing 118. Figure 8 The insert 214 is in a hidden position, allowing it to extend past the barcode label 112 to prevent the barcode label 112 from being detected by the sensor 114 (in the...). Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram) The slidable insert 214 includes at least one deflectable latch 222 extending from a first end 223 of the insert 214. The first end 223 of the insert 214 is closer to the mating end 126 of the housing 118 than the second end of the insert 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 214 includes two latches 222. Each latch 222 includes a latch 224 projecting from the corresponding latch 222. The latch 224 is configured to engage a corresponding one of the rails 220 of the housing 118 to prevent the slidable insert 214 from moving along the rails 218 in the disclosed direction 216 when the housing 118 is not fully mated to the second connector 104.

[0052] In one embodiment, the housing 124 of the second connector 104 includes at least one lug 226 projecting from a corresponding wall 228 of the housing 124, which abuts against or at least faces the slidable insert 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the two lugs 226 are shown in dashed lines because they are located on the invisible inner surface of the wall 228.

[0053] Figure 9 This illustrates the first connector 102 (in) when it is fully engaged with the second connector 104. Figure 8 The CPA element 214 (or slidable insert 214) and rail 220 shown in the figure, as well as the second connector 104 (shown in the figure) Figure 8 The convex lug 226. (e.g.) Figure 9 As shown, lug 226 has a tapered or angled upper edge 230 that pushes and deflects latches 222 toward each other and away from the corresponding rail 220. The deflection of latches 222 releases engagement of latch 224 with the bottom end 232 of rail 220. Relative movement of the first connector 102 and the second connector 104 during mating operation causes lug 226 to move vertically upward relative to rail 220. With lug 226 in the revealing direction 216, lug 226 forces slidable insert 214 upward along track 218. Ultimately, this movement of slidable insert 214 exposes barcode label 112. In the illustrated embodiment, barcode label 112 is exposed below the first end 223 of insert 214, but in an alternative embodiment, it may be exposed through a window of insert 214. Therefore, the barcode label 112 is automatically exposed when fully mated with the first connector 102 and the second connector 104, without requiring additional manual intervention beyond the mating connectors 102 and 104. The barcode label 112 in... Figure 9 The barcode is represented as a two-dimensional matrix.

[0054] Figure 10 It is a connector system 100 according to another embodiment (in Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the first connector 102 shown in the image. This portion of the first connector 102 shown includes a front end wall 144. Figure 8 and Figure 9 Similar to the illustrated embodiment, the housing 118 of the first connector 102 includes a CPA element 250, which is coupled to the outer surface 202 of the front end wall 144 at or near the mating interface 130. The CPA element 250 is referred to herein as a slidable insert 250. In the illustrated embodiment, a barcode label 112 is disposed on the slidable insert 250 (not on the outer surface 202 of the housing 118), making the slidable insert 250 an indicative feature. A concealed feature of the barcode label 112 when the first connector 102 is not fully mated with the mating connector is the socket 252 of the housing 118. The slidable insert 250 is retained within the socket 252. The barcode label 112 and portions of the slidable insert 250 within the socket 252 are shown in dashed lines.

[0055] The socket 252 has opposing left side 254 and right side 256 fixed to the outer surface 202 of the housing 118, and a first opening 258 at a first end or lower end 260 of the socket 252. The left side 254 and right side 256 of the socket 252 may optionally be made of... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The rail 220 shown defines the area. The lower end 260 of the socket 252 is closer to the mating end 126 of the housing 118 than the upper end of the socket 252. The slidable insert 250 can have a... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The sliding insert 214 shown has a similar shape. For example, the sliding insert 250 includes two latches 264 protruding through a first opening 258 at the lower end 260 of the socket 252. (Similar to...) Figure 8 and Figure 9 Similar to latch 222 shown, latch 264 is configured to prevent movement of the slidable insert 250 from a concealed position to an exposed position until a fully mating connection is achieved. Second connector 104 ( Figure 8 ) convex ear 226 (in Figure 8 (As shown in the figure) Release latch 264 and drive slidable insert 250 to the exposed position in the revealing direction 216.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the socket 252 has a second opening 266 at its upper end 262. Although not shown, when the socket 252 is in the exposed position, the tip 268 of the slidable insert 250 protrudes through the second opening 266, and a barcode label 112 on the insert 250 is exposed above the upper end 262 of the socket 252. In an alternative embodiment, the socket 252 may define a window, and the barcode label 112 is exposed through the window of the socket 252 when the slidable insert 250 is in the exposed position. In such an alternative embodiment, the upper end 262 of the socket 252 may optionally be closed (such that the socket 252 does not define the second opening 266).

[0057] Figure 11 The connector system 100 is formed according to another embodiment (in Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the first connector 102 shown in the diagram. In the illustrated embodiment, with... Figure 10 As in the illustrated embodiment, a barcode label 112 is disposed on a CPA element 270 that defines an indicative feature. The CPA element 270, referred to herein as a sliding insert 270, is coupled to and disposed along the inner surface 272 of the front end wall 144 of the housing 118. The front end wall 144 defines a window 274 that extends through the wall 144 between its inner surface 272 and outer surface 202. The wall 144 defines a concealment feature that conceals the barcode label 112 when the sliding insert 270 is in a concealed position. Figure 11 In this configuration, the slidable insert 270 is in a concealed position relative to the housing 118. The barcode label 112 and most of the slidable insert 270 are shown in dashed lines because these components are located on the other side of the front end wall 144. Alternatively, another wall of the housing 118 (instead of the front end wall 144) could be used as a concealed feature.

[0058] The mechanism for releasing the slidable insert 270 from its concealed position and moving it to its exposed position in the revealing direction 216 may optionally be similar to... Figure 8-10 The embodiment shown and described herein. A barcode label 112 is disposed on the outward surface of the slidable insert 270 such that when the slidable insert 270 is in the exposed position, the barcode label 112 is aligned with the window 274 and is visible from the outside of the housing 118 through the window 274. See also... Figure 3 For example, when the housing 124 of the second connector 104 is received inside the housing 118 of the first connector 102 during mating operation, instead of as Figure 3 As shown, housing 118 is received in the inner chamber 132 of housing 124, and can be used Figure 11 The example shown.

[0059] Figure 12 This is a top perspective view of a first connector 102 according to another embodiment. The first connector 102 includes a CPA element 280 defining a concealed feature. The CPA element 280 is held on the top wall 136 of the housing 118 and is slidable relative to the housing 118. A barcode label 112 (in...) Figure 13 (As shown in the diagram) disposed on the outer surface 202 of the top wall 136, such that the top wall 136 of the housing 118 becomes an indicative feature. In the illustrated embodiment, the barcode label 112 is hidden by the CPA element 280, so the barcode label 112 is neither visible nor machine-readable. Therefore, the top wall 136 relative to... Figure 12 The CPA element 280 is in a hidden position.

[0060] The first connector 102 includes a lever 134, which provides for connecting the first connector 102 to the second connector 104 (in Figure 3 (Illustrated) The engagement aid. Lever 134 is shown in the closed position. In an embodiment, when lever 134 is not in the closed position, it restricts movement of CPA element 280 relative to housing 118. As lever 134 rotates to the closed position, a first protrusion 282 projecting from handle 148 of lever 134 engages deflectable latch 284 of CPA element 280, which releases latch 284 from latching surface 286 of housing 118, allowing CPA element 280 to slide relative to housing 118 and lever 134 thereon in the disclosed direction 288.

[0061] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The top perspective view of the first connector 102 shown. Figure 13 In this configuration, the top wall 136 of the housing 118 is in the revealing position relative to the CPA element 280. For example, the CPA element 280 is already in the revealing direction 288 from... Figure 12 The initial position shown is moved to Figure 13 The final position shown reveals the barcode label 112 disposed on the top wall 136. As the CPA element 280 moves in the revealing direction 288, the flange 290 of the CPA element 280 extends past a portion of the handle 148 of the lever 134 to mechanically prevent the lever 134 from rotating from the closed position toward the open position. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the flange 290 extends past a second protrusion 292 projecting from the handle 148 (in... Figure 12 (Shown in more detail below). By extending through handle 148, CPA element 280 provides a lock that holds lever 134 in the closed position. Optionally, deflectable latch 284 (or a different latch) of CPA element 280 can be configured to... Figure 13 The position shown engages the second latching surface 294 of the housing 118 to prevent the CPA element 280 from accidentally moving relative to the housing 118 in the concealed direction 296, which is opposite to the revealing direction 288.

[0062] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. The dimensions, material types, orientations of various components, and the number and position of various components described herein are intended to define parameters of certain embodiments and are by no means restrictive, and are merely exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electrical connector having recordable position assurance, the electrical connector comprising: a housing having a mating interface configured to engage a complementary mating connector during a mating operation; at least one electrical conductor held in the housing; an indicator feature carried by the housing, the indicator feature having a visual identifier disposed thereon, the visual identifier comprising at least one of a one-dimensional barcode, a two-dimensional barcode, or a three-dimensional barcode; and a concealment feature carried by the housing, wherein the indicator feature and the concealment feature are movable relative to one another between a concealed position and an exposed position, the concealment feature concealing at least a portion of the visual identifier in the concealed position, the visual identifier being at least one of exposed or exposable in the exposed position; wherein the indicator feature is in the concealed position relative to the concealment feature when the housing is incompletely mated relative to the mating connector, the indicator feature is in the exposed position relative to the concealment feature when the housing is completely mated to the mating connector, wherein the housing includes a lever movable relative to the housing between an open position and a closed position, the lever configured to engage the mating connector and move the housing and the mating connector relatively toward one another as the lever moves from the open position to the closed position such that the housing is completely mated to the mating connector when the lever is in the closed position, the lever defining the concealment feature, wherein the indicator feature is a connector position assurance element having the visual identifier disposed thereon, the connector position assurance element coupled to and movable relative to the lever, the visual identifier concealed by a segment of the lever when the connector position assurance element is in the concealed position relative to the lever, the visual identifier exposable through a window defined in the segment and / or through a window defined outside a perimeter of the segment when the connector position assurance element is in the exposed position relative to the lever, wherein the lever includes at least one protrusion that engages the connector position assurance element to block movement of the connector position assurance element relative to the lever from the concealed position to the exposed position when the lever is not in the closed position, the housing defining at least one protrusion that engages and deflects the at least one protrusion when the lever is in the closed position such that the connector position assurance element is movable relative to the lever to the exposed position.

2. The electrical connector of claim 1, wherein, the visual identifier identifying the electrical connector, the visual identifier being machine-readable such that the visual identifier is readable by a sensor when the visual identifier is exposed relative to the concealment feature in the exposed position of the indicator feature.

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