Self-ejecting electrical connection system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electrical connector system (100) comprising a first connector body (104) defining a locking fin (106), a second connector body (110) configured to receive the first connector body (104), and a flexible locking arm (118) defined by the second connector body (110), the flexible locking arm being configured to releasably engage the locking fin (106). A plunger (120) is slidably attached to the second connector body (110) and movable from an engaged position (122) to a disengaged position (122), in which the plunger (120) holds the locking arm (118) engaged with the locking fin (106), and in the disengaged position, the plunger (120) disengages the locking arm (118) from the locking fin (106). A spring (126) is disposed between the plunger (122) and the second connector body (110) and configured to push the plunger (120) into the engaged position (122).

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 17 / 588,955, filed January 31, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 227,117, filed July 29, 2021, the full disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to an electrical connector with a self-ejecting feature. Background Technology

[0004] Existing electrical connection systems with self-ejection features cannot fully guide the thrust member on the locking device. Locking devices made of plastic fail over time due to polymer creep. Existing electrical connection systems typically require additional features in the male connector housing to provide self-ejection functionality. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, an electrical connector system includes a first connector body defining a locking fin, a second connector body configured to receive the first connector body, and a flexible locking arm defined by the second connector body, the flexible locking arm being configured to releasably engage the locking fin. A plunger is slidably attached to the second connector body and movable from an engaged position to a disengaged position, in which the plunger holds the locking arm engaged with the locking fin, and in the disengaged position, the plunger disengages the locking arm from the locking fin. The electrical connector system also includes a spring disposed between the plunger and the second connector body. The spring is configured to push the plunger into the engaged position.

[0006] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to the preceding paragraph, as the first connector body is inserted into the second connector body, the pushing surface on the flexible arm of the plunger contacts the front end of the first connector body, thereby compressing the spring and moving the plunger from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0007] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the second connector body is configured such that as the plunger reaches the disengaged position, the flexible arm bends such that the actuating surface no longer contacts the front end of the first connector body, thereby allowing the plunger to return from the disengaged position to the engaged position.

[0008] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, when the push surface contacts the front end, the compression of the spring causes the push surface on the flexible arm of the plunger to apply force to the front end of the first connector body, thereby pushing the first connector body and the second connector body apart.

[0009] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, a second connector body defines a guide channel in which a portion of a flexible arm is disposed. The guide channel defines a beveled surface configured to bend the flexible arm such that, as the plunger reaches the disengaged position, the actuating surface no longer contacts the front end of the first connector body.

[0010] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, a plunger defines a first tab portion having a first angled surface, and a locking arm defines a second tab portion having a second angled surface. As the plunger moves from an engaged position to a disengaged position, the first angled surface contacts the second angled surface, thereby raising the end of the locking arm over the locking fin.

[0011] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, when the plunger is in the disengaged position, the first tab holds the end of the locking arm above the locking fin.

[0012] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, when the plunger is in the disengaged position, the plunger is configured to raise the locking arm above the locking fins.

[0013] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, a locking arm defines an orifice in which a locking fin is received when the plunger is in the engaged position.

[0014] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the plunger and the second connector body are formed of a polymeric material. The electrical connector system also includes a metal clip disposed within the second connector body. A spring is disposed between the plunger and the metal clip.

[0015] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the spring is compressed when the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0016] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the spring is relaxed when the plunger is in the engaged position.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of the electrical connector system according to any of the preceding paragraphs, when the plunger is in the engaged position, a portion of the plunger prevents upward movement of the locking arm, thereby providing connector position assurance.

[0018] According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, a method of connecting an electrical connector system includes a first connector body defining a locking fin; a second connector body configured to receive the first connector body; a flexible locking arm defined by the second connector body, the flexible locking arm being configured to releasably engage the locking fin; a plunger slidably attached to the second connector body and movable from an engaged position to a disengaged position, wherein in the engaged position the plunger retains the locking arm engaged with the locking fin, and in the disengaged position the plunger disengages the locking arm from the locking fin; and a spring disposed between the plunger and the second connector body and configured to push the plunger into the engaged position, the method comprising the steps of:

[0019] Insert the second connector body into the first connector body;

[0020] • As the first connector body is inserted into the second connector body, the plunger is moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position through the contact between the pushing surface on the flexible arm of the plunger and the front end of the first connector body.

[0021] • As the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the spring is compressed, thereby applying force to the front end of the first connector body and pushing the first connector body and the second connector body apart.

[0022] • As the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the flexible locking arm is raised above the locking fins;

[0023] • As the plunger reaches the disengaged position, the flexible arm bends, causing the actuating surface to no longer contact the front end of the first connector body;

[0024] • Because the pushing surface is no longer in contact with the front end, as the spring decompresses, the plunger moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position; and

[0025] • As the plunger moves back to the engaged position, the locking arm lowers above the locking fins, so that the locking fins are received in the orifice within the locking arm, thereby securing the first connector body to the second connector body.

[0026] In one or more embodiments of the method according to the preceding paragraph, the method further includes providing connector position assurance by positioning a portion of the plunger above the locking arm to prevent upward movement of the locking arm when the plunger is in the engaged position.

[0027] In one or more embodiments of the method according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the spring is compressed when the plunger is removed from the engaged position.

[0028] In one or more embodiments of the method according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the spring is relaxed when the plunger is in the engaged position.

[0029] According to one or more aspects of this disclosure, a method for disconnecting an electrical connector system includes a first connector body defining a locking fin; a second connector body configured to receive the first connector body; a flexible locking arm defined by the second connector body, the flexible locking arm being configured to releasably engage the locking fin; a plunger slidably attached to the second connector body and movable from an engaged position to a disengaged position, wherein in the engaged position the plunger retains the locking arm engaged with the locking fin, and in the disengaged position the plunger disengages the locking arm from the locking fin; and a spring disposed between the plunger and the second connector body and configured to push the plunger into the engaged position, the method comprising the steps of:

[0030] • Move the plunger from the engaged position to the disengaged position;

[0031] • As the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the flexible locking arm is raised above the locking fins;

[0032] • As the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the spring is compressed;

[0033] • Remove the first connector body from the second connector body; and

[0034] As the spring decompresses, the plunger moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position, thereby separating the first connector body from the second connector body through contact between the pushing surface on the plunger's flexible arm and the front end of the first connector body.

[0035] In one or more embodiments of the method according to the preceding paragraph, the spring is compressed as the plunger moves out of the engaged position.

[0036] In one or more embodiments of the method according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the spring is relaxed when the plunger is in the engaged position. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an electrical connector assembly in a disconnected state according to some embodiments;

[0039] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of one of the electrical connectors according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 3A This is a cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the initial stage of connection of the electrical connector assembly, according to some embodiments, when the front end of the first connector body contacts the pushing surface of the plunger in the second connector body.

[0041] Figure 3B Based on some embodiments Figure 3A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the initial connection phase shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0042] Figure 4A According to some embodiments, when the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, Figure 3A A cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the connection phase of the electrical connector assembly after the initial phase, as shown.

[0043] Figure 4B Based on some embodiments Figure 4A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the connection phase shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0044] Figure 5A Based on some embodiments Figure 4A During the connection phase of the electrical connector assembly following the stage shown, a cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly is shown. At this time, the inclined surface in the second connector body causes the push surface of the plunger to move out of contact with the front end of the first connector body, and while the plunger is in the disengaged position, the plunger lifts the locking arm in the second connector body above the locking fin on the first connector body.

[0045] Figure 5B Based on some embodiments Figure 5A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the connection phase shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0046] Figure 6A Based on some embodiments Figure 5A The cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the final stage of the connection of the electrical connector assembly after the stage shown, at which point the plunger lowers the locking arm onto the locking fin as it returns to the engaged position.

[0047] Figure 6B Based on some embodiments Figure 6A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the final stage of connection shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0048] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional side view of an electrical connector assembly according to some embodiments, showing a portion of a plunger configured to prevent disengagement between a locking arm and a locking fin while the plunger is in the engaged position.

[0049] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional side view of an electrical connector assembly according to some embodiments, showing a portion of a front stop forming a second connector body, the front stop being configured to prevent the plunger from moving forward to the engagement position.

[0050] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional side view of an electrical connector assembly during the initial phase of disconnection, according to some embodiments.

[0051] Figure 10 According to some embodiments, when the plunger moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, Figure 9 A cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase following the initial phase.

[0052] Figure 11 Based on some embodiments Figure 10 A cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase following the stage shown, at which point the plunger lifts the locking arm in the second connector body above the locking fins on the first connector body.

[0053] Figure 12A According to some embodiments, when the plunger is in the disengaged position, Figure 11 A cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase following the phase shown.

[0054] Figure 12B Based on some embodiments Figure 12A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the connection phase shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0055] Figure 13A Based on some embodiments Figure 12A The cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase following the phase shown, at which point the plunger moves toward the disengaged position as the first connector body retracts from the second connector body.

[0056] Figure 13B Based on some embodiments Figure 13A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0057] Figure 14A Based on some embodiments Figure 13BThe cross-sectional side view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase following the phase shown, at which point the plunger moves toward the engagement position as the first connector body retracts from the second connector body.

[0058] Figure 14B Based on some embodiments Figure 14A The cutaway perspective view of the electrical connector assembly during the disconnection phase shows the state of the spring between the second connector body and the plunger.

[0059] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of an electrical connector assembly during the final stage of disconnection, according to some embodiments.

[0060] Figure 16A This is a perspective view of the plunger of an electrical connector assembly according to some embodiments;

[0061] Figure 16B A side view of a plunger according to some embodiments; and

[0062] Figure 17 This is an exploded view of one of the electrical connectors according to an alternative embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0063] This disclosure relates to an electrical connector system in which two mating connectors are configured to self-eject or automatically separate unless fully and properly mated together. This self-eject feature helps ensure that a correct connection is established and maintained between the mating connectors, as a separated connector is easier for an assembly operator to detect compared to a partially mated connector. One of the connectors includes a spring or similar force-generating device configured to push the connector away until a locking feature in each mating connector is properly engaged. The connector system also includes a movable plunger that locks and unlocks the locking feature as it moves between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The plunger also includes a connector position guarantee (CPA) feature configured to suppress unintentional unlocking and disengagement of the locking feature when the plunger is in the engaged position. When the plunger is in the engaged position, the plunger brings the spring to a relaxed state. The locking feature can be manually disengaged using the plunger to disconnect the two mating connectors. When this occurs, the spring pushes the two mating connectors apart to disconnect the electrical connection.

[0064] Non-limiting examples of this electrical connector system 100 are shown in Figure 1As shown in the diagram. The electrical connector system includes a first connector 102, which in this example is a male connector, having a first connector body 104 formed of an electrically insulating material. The first connector body 104 defines a locking fin 106 near its leading edge. As used herein, the forward and rearward directions are referenced relative to the longitudinal axis of the first connector 102 when the first connector 102 is inserted into a second mating connector 108 of the electrical connector system 100. The locking fin 106 has an acute-angled surface relative to the first connector body 104 on its forward face and a perpendicular surface on its rearward face. The second connector 108, in this example a female connector, and... Figure 2 As shown in more detail, a second connector body 110 defines a shield 112 configured to receive a first connector body 104. The first connector 102 includes a plurality of electrical terminals 114 disposed within the first connector body 104, these electrical terminals 114 being designed to mate with a plurality of corresponding mating electrical terminals 116 disposed within the second connector body 110 of the second connector 108, such as... Figure 9 The best result is shown in the middle.

[0065] The second connector body 110 includes a flexible locking arm 118 configured to releasably engage a locking fin 106 to maintain a connection between the first connector body 104 and the second connector body 110, thereby maintaining a connection between electrical terminals 114 in the first connector body 104 and mating electrical terminals 116 in the second connector body 110 of the second connector 108.

[0066] The second connector 108 also includes a plunger 120 slidably attached to the second connector body 110. The plunger 120 is movable from an engaged position 122 to a disengaged position 124, in which the plunger 120 holds the locking arm 118 engaged with the locking fin 106, and in the disengaged position 124, the plunger 120 disengages the locking arm 118 from the locking fin 106.

[0067] The second connector 108 also includes a pair of compression coil springs 126 disposed between the plunger 120 and the second connector body 110. These springs 126 are configured to push the plunger 120 into an engagement position 122. In alternative embodiments, these springs may be replaced by other types of springs that can push the plunger 120 into the engagement position 122, such as sheet compression springs, polymer compression springs, pneumatic compression springs, or tension springs. As the first connector body 104 is inserted into the second connector body 110, the pushing surface 128 on the tip of the flexible arm 130 of the plunger 120 contacts the tip 132 of the first connector body 104, thereby compressing the springs 126 and moving the plunger 120 from the engagement position 122 to the disengagement position 124, as... Figure 3A and 4A As shown. The compression of spring 126 applies a force between the first connector body 104 and the second connector body 110, which pushes the first connector 102 and the second connector 108 apart. As the first connector 102 and the second connector 108 mate, the assembly operator overcomes this force by applying a reaction force to the first connector 102 and the second connector 108. As used herein, the front-back direction is referenced relative to the longitudinal axis of the second connector 108 in the direction in which the second connector 108 mates with the first connector 102.

[0068] exist Figure 16A and 16B The portion 134 of the flexible arm 130, best shown in the diagram, is disposed within a guide channel 136 in the second connector body 110, and the rear end of the guide channel 136 is defined as an angled bevel feature 138. When the plunger 120 is pulled back as... Figure 5A In the disengaged position 124 shown, the inclined surface feature 138 causes the flexible arm 130 to bend upwards, so that the pushing surface 128 no longer contacts the front end 132 of the first connector body 104, as shown. Figure 6A As shown. This allows the plunger 120 to return from the disengaged position 124 to the engaged position 122.

[0069] like Figure 4A As shown, the plunger 120 is defined with a first tab portion 140 having a first angled surface 142 on its rear end, and the locking arm 118 is defined with a second tab portion 144 having a second angled surface 146 on its front end. Figure 4AAs shown, as the plunger 120 moves from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, the first angled surface 142 contacts the second angled surface 146, raising the tip of the locking arm 118 above the locking fin 106 of the first connector body 104. When the plunger 120 is in the disengaged position 124, the first tab 140 raises and holds the tip of the locking arm 118 above and above the locking fin 106, thereby disengaging the locking arm 118 from the locking fin 106 and allowing the first connector body 104 to separate and be removed from the second connector body 110.

[0070] Locking arm 118 defines orifice 148. After plunger 120 moves from disengaged position 124 to engaged position 122 and the first tab 140 is no longer engaged with the second tab 144, locking fin 106 is received in orifice 148. Figure 7 As shown.

[0071] When the plunger 120 moves from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, the spring 126 is compressed, and when the plunger 120 is in the engaged position 122, the spring 126 is relaxed, as... Figure 3B , 4B As shown in 5B and 6B.

[0072] The plunger 120 and the second connector body 110 are formed of a polymer material. Figure 17 In the alternative embodiment shown, the electrical connector system 100 further includes a metal clip 150 disposed within the second connector body 110. A spring 126 is disposed between the plunger 120 and the metal clip 150. The metal clip provides the benefit of reducing polymer creep in the second connector body 110 that occurs over time.

[0073] A portion 152 of the plunger 120 is configured to prevent the locking arm 118 from moving upward when the plunger 120 is in the engaged position 122, thereby providing a connector position guarantee function.

[0074] The front end 154 of the plunger 120 can contact the second connector body 110 to prevent the plunger 120 from moving beyond the engagement position 122, such as... Figure 8 As shown.

[0075] A method for connecting the above-mentioned electrical connector system includes the following steps:

[0076] Insert the second connector body 110 into the first connector body 104, as follows: Figure 3A As shown;

[0077] As the first connector body 104 is inserted into the second connector body 110, the plunger 120 is moved from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124 via the contact between the pushing surface 128 on the flexible arm 130 of the plunger 120 and the front end 132 of the first connector body 104. Figure 4A and 5A As shown;

[0078] As the plunger 120 moves from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, the spring 126 is compressed, thereby applying force to the front end 132 of the first connector body 104 and pushing the first connector body 104 and the second connector body 110 apart, as... Figure 4B and 5B As shown;

[0079] As the plunger 120 moves from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, the flexible locking arm 118 is raised above the locking fins 106, as... Figure 5A As shown;

[0080] As the plunger 120 reaches the disengagement position 124, the flexible arm 130 bends, causing the push surface 128 to no longer contact the front end 132 of the first connector body 104, as... Figure 5A As shown;

[0081] Since the pushing surface 128 is no longer in contact with the front end 132, as the spring 126 decompresses, the plunger 120 moves from the disengaged position 124 to the engaged position 122, as... Figure 6A and 6B As shown; and

[0082] As the plunger 120 moves back to the engaged position 122, the locking arm 118 is lowered above the locking fin 106, so that the locking fin 106 is received within the orifice 148 in the locking arm 118, thereby securing the first connector body 104 to the second connector body 110, as shown below. Figure 6A As shown.

[0083] The method may further include the following step: when the plunger 120 is in the engaged position 122, preventing the locking arm 118 from moving upward by positioning a portion 152 of the plunger 120 above the locking arm 118, thereby providing connector position assurance, such as Figure 7 As shown.

[0084] As the plunger 120 moves out of the engaged position 122, the spring 126 is compressed, and when the plunger 120 is in the engaged position 122, the spring 126 is relaxed, as... Figure 3B , 4B As shown in 5B and 6B.

[0085] A method for disconnecting the aforementioned electrical connector system includes the following steps:

[0086] • Move the plunger 120 from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, as follows: Figure 9 and 10 As shown;

[0087] As the plunger 120 moves from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, the flexible locking arm 118 is raised above the locking fins 106, as... Figure 11 As shown;

[0088] As the plunger 120 moves from the engaged position 122 to the disengaged position 124, the spring 126 is compressed, as... Figure 12B As shown;

[0089] • Remove the first connector body 104 from the second connector body 110, as follows: Figure 14A and 15 As shown; and

[0090] As spring 126 decompresses, plunger 120 moves from disengaged position 124 to engaged position 122, as... Figure 12A , 12B As shown in 13A, 13B, 14A and 14B, the first connector body 104 is separated from the second connector body 110 through contact between the push surface 128 on the flexible arm 130 of the plunger 120 and the front end 132 of the first connector body 104.

[0091] As the plunger 120 moves out of the engaged position 122, the spring 126 is compressed, and when the plunger 120 is in the engaged position 122, the spring 126 is relaxed, as... Figure 12B , 13B As shown in 14B.

[0092] While the invention has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and its elements can be replaced by equivalents without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, various modifications can be made to adapt particular circumstances or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from its main scope. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to the one or more embodiments disclosed, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the appended claims.

[0093] As used herein, “one or more” includes functions performed by a single element, functions performed by more than one element in a distributed manner, functions performed by a single element, functions performed by several elements, or any combination of the above.

[0094] It should also be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., are used in some cases to describe various elements herein, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the various described embodiments, a first contact may be referred to as a second contact, and similarly, a second contact may be referred to as a first contact. Both the first and second contacts are contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0095] The terminology used in the description of the various embodiments herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and appended claims of the various described embodiments, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to equally include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that the term “comprising” as used herein specifically means the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0096] As used herein, depending on the context, the term "if" may optionally be interpreted as "when" or "in response to determination" or "in response to detection". Similarly, depending on the context, the phrase "if determined" or "if detected [the stated condition or event]" may optionally be interpreted as "in response to the decision" or "in response to the decision" or "[when the condition or event is detected]" or "in response to the detection of [the stated condition or event]".

[0097] Furthermore, while this document may use terms of regulation or orientation, these elements should not be limited by such terms. Unless otherwise stated, all regulations or orientations are for the purpose of distinguishing one element from another and, unless otherwise stated, do not indicate any particular order, sequence of operations, direction, or orientation.

Claims

1. An electrical connector system (100), comprising: a first connector body (104) defining a locking fin (106); a second connector body (110) configured to receive the first connector body (104); a flexible locking arm (118) defined by the second connector body (110) configured to releasably engage the locking fin (106); a plunger (120) slidably attached to the second connector body (110) and movable from an engaged position (122) in which the plunger (120) holds the locking arm (118) engaged with the locking fin (106) to a disengaged position (124) in which the plunger (120) disengages the locking arm (118) from the locking fin (106); and a spring (126) disposed between the plunger (120) and the second connector body (110) and configured to urge the plunger (120) into the engaged position (122), wherein as the first connector body (104) is inserted within the second connector body (110), a push surface (128) on a flexible arm (130) of the plunger (120) contacts a forward end (132) of the first connector body (104) thereby compressing the spring (126) and moving the plunger (120) from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), wherein the second connector body (110) is configured to bend the flexible arm (130) such that as the plunger (120) reaches the disengaged position (124), the push surface (128) no longer contacts the forward end (132) of the first connector body (104) thereby allowing the plunger (120) to return from the disengaged position (124) to the engaged position (122), the compression of the spring (126) causing the push surface (128) on the flexible arm (130) of the plunger (120) to exert a force on the forward end (132) of the first connector body (104) thereby urging the first connector body (104) and the second connector body (110) apart when the push surface (128) is in contact with the forward end (132), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled surface (146), and wherein as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), the first angled surface (142) contacts the second angled surface (146) thereby lifting an end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106), the plunger (120) defines a first tab portion (140) having a first angled surface (142) and the locking arm (118) defines a second tab portion (144) having a second angled wherein the first tab portion (140) holds the end of the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106) when the plunger (120) is in the disengaged position (124), wherein the plunger (120) is configured to lift the locking arm (118) above the locking fin (106) when the plunger (120) is in the disengaged position (124), wherein the plunger (120) and the second connector body (110) are formed of a polymeric material, wherein the electrical connector system (100) further comprises a metal clip (150) disposed within the second connector body (110), and wherein the spring (126) is disposed between the plunger (120) and the metal clip (150).

2. The electrical connector system (100) of claim 1, characterized in that the second connector body (110) defines a guide channel (136) in which a portion (134) of the flexible arm (130) is disposed, and wherein the guide channel (136) defines a ramped surface (138) configured to bend the flexible arm (130) such that the push surface (128) no longer contacts the front end (132) of the first connector body (104) as the plunger (120) reaches the disengaged position (124).

3. The electrical connector system (100) of claim 1, wherein, the locking arm (118) defines an aperture (148) in which the locking fin (106) is received when the plunger (120) is in the engaged position (122).

4. The electrical connector system (100) of claim 1, characterized in that, the spring (126) is compressed as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124).

5. The electrical connector system (100) of claim 1, wherein, the spring (126) is relaxed when the plunger (120) is in the engaged position (122).

6. The electrical connector system (100) of claim 1, wherein, a portion (152) of the plunger (120) blocks upward movement of the locking arm (118) when the plunger (120) is in the engaged position (122), thereby providing a connector position assurance.

7. A method of connecting the electrical connector system (100) of any of the preceding claims, the method comprising: inserting the first connector body (104) into the second connector body (110); moving the plunger (120) from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124) via contact between a push surface (128) on a flexible arm (130) of the plunger (120) and a front end (132) of the first connector body (104) as the first connector body (104) is inserted into the second connector body (110); compressing the spring (126) as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124), thereby exerting a force on the front end (132) of the first connector body (104) and urging the first connector body (104) and the second connector body (110) apart; lifting the flexible locking arm (118) over the locking fin (106) as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124); bending the flexible arm (130) such that the push surface (128) no longer contacts the front end (132) of the first connector body (104) as the plunger (120) reaches the disengaged position (122); moving the plunger (120) from the disengaged position (124) to the engaged position (122) as the spring (126) decompresses because the push surface (128) is no longer in contact with the front end (132); and lowering the locking arm (118) over the locking fin (106) as the plunger (120) moves back to the engaged position (122) such that the locking fin (106) is received within an aperture (148) within the locking arm (118) thereby securing the first connector body (104) to the second connector body (110).

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, Further comprising: providing a connector position assurance by positioning a portion (152) of the plunger (120) over the locking arm (118) when the plunger (120) is in the engaged position (122) thereby preventing upward movement of the locking arm (118).

9. The method of claim 7, wherein, compressing the spring (126) as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122).

10. The method of claim 7, wherein, relaxing the spring when the plunger is in the engaged position.

11. A method of disconnecting the electrical connector system (100) of any of claims 1-6, the method comprising: moving the plunger (120) from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124); lifting the flexible locking arm (118) over the locking fin (106) as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124); compressing the spring (126) as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122) to the disengaged position (124); extracting the first connector body (104) from the second connector body (110); and moving the plunger (120) from the disengaged position (124) to the engaged position (122) as the spring (126) decompresses thereby separating the first connector body (104) from the second connector body (110) via contact between a push surface (128) on the flexible arm (130) of the plunger (120) and a front end (132) of the first connector body (104).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, compressing the spring (126) as the plunger (120) moves from the engaged position (122).

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, relaxing the spring (126) when the plunger (120) is in the engaged position (122).

Images