Electrical connector assembly with connection indicator for a motor vehicle

Abstract

An electrical connector assembly includes a pair of electrical connectors for electrically connecting to one another to close an electrical circuit. The assembly also includes a connection indicator attached to one or more of the electrical connectors. The connection indicator generates feedback in response to the electrical connectors being one of connected to one another or disconnected from one another. The connection indicator is separate from the electrical circuit, and the feedback is at least one of a radio frequency signal (RF signal), an electronic signal, visible light, and an acoustic signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to automotive electronic devices, and more specifically to an electrical connector assembly having multiple connectors and a connection indicator that provides feedback to indicate whether the connectors have been connected or disconnected from each other. Background Technology

[0002] Modern vehicles have multiple electronic systems, each of which may include multiple electronic components, each having electrical connectors that connect the components to each other. Non-limiting examples of electronic systems may include engine management systems, ignition systems, radio systems, telematics systems, entertainment systems, and other electronic systems. While electrical connectors can be attached to each other during vehicle manufacturing, technicians may not apply sufficient force to fully connect the connectors and complete the circuitry. The lack of electrical connection between the connectors may not be discovered until the electronic systems are tested and / or operated.

[0003] Therefore, while existing electrical connectors have achieved their intended purpose, a new and improved electrical connector assembly is still needed to address these issues. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to several aspects of this disclosure, an electrical connector assembly is provided for an electronic system of a motor vehicle, the electronic system having a plurality of electrical components. The assembly includes a pair of electrical connectors for each electrical component and electrically connected to each other to close a circuit. The assembly also includes a connection indicator attached to one or more of the electrical connectors. The connection indicator generates feedback in response to the electrical connectors being connected to or disconnected from each other. The connection indicator is isolated from the circuit, and the feedback is at least one of a radio frequency (RF) signal, an electronic signal, visible light, and an acoustic signal.

[0005] In one aspect, the connection indicator includes a first support portion attached to one of the electrical connectors. The connection indicator also includes a second support portion for engagement with the other of the electrical connectors in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other. The connection indicator also includes a breakable portion connecting the first and second support portions to each other. The breakable portion is adapted to break in response to engagement of the second support portion with one of the electrical connectors and the electrical connectors being connected to each other.

[0006] On the other hand, the first support portion and the second support portion have associated first thickness and second thickness, and the breakable portion has a third thickness that is less than each of the first thickness and the second thickness.

[0007] On the other hand, the first support portion, the second support portion, and the fragile portion are integral components of the single piece.

[0008] On the other hand, one of the electrical connectors defines a recess, and a connection indicator is positioned within the recess. Another of the electrical connectors includes a surface adapted to engage with a second support portion of the connection indicator in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other.

[0009] On the other hand, the component also includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag having an integrated circuit coupled to a breakable portion. The integrated circuit disconnects in response to breakage of the breakable portion, preventing the RFID tag from transmitting RF signals to the wireless transceiver device.

[0010] On the other hand, RFID tags are able to send RF signals to wireless transceiver devices before the electrical connectors are connected to each other and the integrated circuits are disconnected.

[0011] On the other hand, the connection indicator emits an audible signal in response to the breakage of the fragile part.

[0012] On the other hand, the connection indicator includes a light source for emitting light, a first polarizing filter for transmitting light along a first transmission plane, and a second polarizing filter for transmitting light along a second transmission plane. The second polarizing filter is movable relative to the first polarizing filter between a first position and a second position. The connection indicator also includes a gear train attached to the second polarizing filter for moving the second polarizing filter to the second position in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other.

[0013] On the other hand, in response to the electrical connectors connecting to each other, the gear train moves the second polarizing filter to a second position, such that the first and second transmission planes are positioned at right angles to each other to block light.

[0014] On the other hand, in response to the electrical connectors connecting to each other, the gear train moves the second polarizing filter to a second position, such that the first and second transmission planes are not positioned at right angles relative to each other, and the first and second polarizing filters transmit light.

[0015] On the other hand, the gear train includes a rack attached to one of the electrical connectors and a pinion rotatably mounted to the other electrical connector. The pinion is driven by the rack in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other. The gear train also includes a first bevel gear coupled to the pinion, which is driven by the pinion. The gear train also includes a second bevel gear engaging with the first bevel gear and a second polarizing filter. The first bevel gear drives the second bevel gear, which in turn moves the second polarizing filter from a first position to a second position.

[0016] On the other hand, the second bevel gear is connected to the drive shaft, which in turn is connected to the center of the second polarizing filter.

[0017] On the other hand, the second bevel gear is a ring gear connected to the outer peripheral portion of the second polarizing filter.

[0018] On the other hand, the connection indicator includes one or more wireless pressure sensors attached to one or more of the electrical connectors. The wireless pressure sensors emit electronic signals in response to the electrical connectors connecting to each other.

[0019] On the other hand, one part of the electrical connector defines a recess in which the wireless pressure sensor is positioned. Another part of the electrical connector includes a surface for engaging with the wireless pressure sensor.

[0020] On the other hand, the electrical connectors have associated first and second fasteners, wherein the first and second fasteners engage with each other to keep the electrical connectors connected to each other. A wireless pressure sensor is attached to one of the first and second fasteners, such that the other of the first and second fasteners actuates the wireless pressure sensor to emit an electronic signal in response to the engagement of the first and second fasteners.

[0021] On the other hand, the connection indicator includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag with an integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including a first portion attached to one of the electrical connectors and a second portion attached to the other of the electrical connectors. The first and second portions of the integrated circuit are electrically connected to each other in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other, thereby completing the integrated circuit and transmitting an RF signal.

[0022] According to several aspects of this disclosure, a motor vehicle includes an electronic system having circuitry with multiple electrical components. The electrical components include at least a power source, a controller, at least one load, and an electrical connector assembly. The assembly includes a pair of electrical connectors for electrically connecting to each other to close a circuit. The assembly also includes a connection indicator attached to at least one of the electrical connectors. The connection indicator generates feedback in response to the electrical connectors connecting or disconnecting from each other. The connection indicator is isolated from the circuitry, and the feedback is at least one of a radio frequency (RF) signal, an electronic signal, visible light, and an acoustic signal.

[0023] According to several aspects of this disclosure, a method is provided for assembling an electrical connector assembly having a pair of electrical connectors and a connection indicator attached to at least one of the electrical connectors. The method includes electrically connecting the electrical connectors to each other to form a circuit, wherein the connection indicator is decoupled from the circuit. The method further includes generating feedback using the connection indicator. In response to the electrical connectors being connected or disconnected from each other, the feedback includes at least one of a radio frequency signal, an electronic signal, visible light, and an acoustic signal.

[0024] Further applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the descriptions and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a motor vehicle with an electronic system having multiple electrical components electrically connected to each other via associated electrical connector assemblies.

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an electrical connector assembly, illustrating that the assembly has a pair of electrical connectors, a connection indicator, and a pair of fasteners for keeping the connectors connected to each other.

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the electrical connector assembly before the electrical connectors are electrically connected to each other shows the connection indicator having a single piece with a breakable portion.

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged side view of the single piece of the connection indicator.

[0030] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged front view of the unit of the connection indicator shows that the connection indicator also has a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag) attached to the fragile part of the unit.

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the electrical connector assembly shows that, in response to the electrical connectors being electrically connected to each other, the fragile portion breaks and the RFID tag disconnects.

[0032] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 An enlarged perspective view of another example of a connection indicator shows that the connection indicator has a light source and a pair of polarizing filters attached to an electrical connector to block light emitted from the light source before the electrical connectors are connected to each other.

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An enlarged perspective view of the connection indicator shows that the connection indicator also has a rack extending from one of the electrical connectors and a gear train carried by the other electrical connector, wherein the gear train engages with the rack for moving at least one of the polarizing filters to transmit light when the electrical connectors are connected to each other.

[0034] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 An enlarged perspective view of another example of a connection indicator shows that the connection indicator has a pair of polarizers and a gear system, with a ring gear surrounding one of the polarizers.

[0035] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged perspective view of the connection indicator shows a ring gear moving one of the polarizing filters relative to another to transmit light emitted when the electrical connectors are connected to each other.

[0036] Figure 11 yes Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view of another example of an electrical connector assembly shows that the connection indicator is a wireless pressure sensor disposed in a recess formed in one electrical connector and engaging with a protrusion extending from another electrical connector.

[0037] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the electrical connector assembly shows a protrusion housed in a recess for actuating a wireless pressure sensor in response to the electrical connectors connecting to each other.

[0038] Figure 13 yes Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the fastener of the electrical connector shows another example of a connection indicator that includes multiple wireless pressure sensors attached to one or more of the fastener.

[0039] Figure 14 yes Figure 2 An enlarged cross-sectional view of another example of an electrical connector assembly shows a connection indicator including an RFID tag with an integrated circuit having a first portion attached to a protrusion extending from one of the electrical connectors and a second portion positioned adjacent to a recess formed in the other of the electrical connectors.

[0040] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A schematic end view of the protrusion.

[0041] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 An enlarged cross-sectional view of an electrical connector, wherein the second portion of the circuit is disposed adjacent to the recess of the electrical connector.

[0042] Figure 17 yes Figure 14 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the electrical connector assembly shows that, in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other, the first and second portions of the integrated circuit are electrically connected to each other to close the circuit.

[0043] Figure 18It is used for operation Figure 2 A flowchart of an example of a method for electrically connecting components. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses.

[0045] This disclosure describes a non-limiting example of an electrical connector assembly for an electronic system in a motor vehicle. The assembly includes two or more electrical connectors and a connection indicator for providing feedback and / or notification that the connectors are electrically connected or disconnected from each other. Although these non-limiting examples of connection indicators provide feedback in the form of radio frequency (RF) signals, electronic signals, visible light, acoustic signals, or any combination thereof, it is contemplated that the connection indicator may provide other suitable forms of feedback and / or notification. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the electrical connector assembly can be integrated into any automotive electronic system or non-automotive electronic system.

[0046] refer to Figure 1 An example of a motor vehicle 100 includes an electronic system 102 having a circuit 104 with multiple electrical components 106. Non-limiting examples of the electronic system 102 may include an engine management system, an ignition system, a radio system, a telematics system, an entertainment system, and other suitable electronic systems. Components 106 may include at least a power supply 108, a controller 110, and one or more loads 112. It is conceivable that the electronic system may include other suitable electrical components.

[0047] refer to Figure 2 The electronic system 102 also includes an electrical connector assembly 114 (“assembly”), which has associated electrical components 106. Figure 1 And they are electrically connected to each other to close circuit 104. Figure 1 The assembly 114 also includes a pair of electrical connectors 116, 118. The assembly further includes a connection indicator 120 attached to at least one of the electrical connectors 116, 118, which generates feedback and / or notification in response to the electrical connectors 116, 118 being connected to or disconnected from each other. As described in detail below, the connection indicator 120 is decoupled from the circuitry 104, and the feedback and / or notification is a radio frequency (RF) signal. Figures 3 to 6 ), electronic signals ( Figures 11 to 15 ), visible light ( Figures 7 to 10 ) and sound signals ( Figures 3 to 6 At least one of the following.

[0048] Now for reference Figures 3 to 6The connection indicator 120 includes a first support portion 122 attached to one of the electrical connectors 118 and a second support portion 124 engaging with a protrusion 126 extending from the other electrical connector 116 in response to the electrical connectors 116, 118 being connected to each other. In this example, the connection indicator 120 also includes a breakable portion 128 connecting the first support portion 122 and the second support portion 124 to each other. Additionally, in this example, the first support portion 122 and the second support portion 124 have associated first thickness T1 and second thickness T2, and the breakable portion 128 has a third thickness T3 less than each of the first thickness T1 and the second thickness T2. The first support portion 122, the second support portion 124, and the breakable portion 128 are integral components of the single piece 130. Figure 5 As best illustrated in this example, the connection indicator 120 also includes a radio frequency identification tag 132 (RFID tag) having an integrated circuit 134 coupled to a breakable portion 128. When the electrical connectors 116, 118 are connected to each other, the RFID tag 132 is able to transmit RF signals to the wireless transceiver device 136 before the integrated circuit 134 is disconnected. In this non-limiting example, one of the electrical connectors 118 defines a recess 138 in which the connection indicator 120 is positioned, and the other electrical connector 116 has a protrusion 126 having a surface 140 adapted to engage with a second support portion 124 of the connection indicator 120 in response to the connection of the electrical connectors 116, 118 to each other. Figure 6 As best illustrated, when connectors 116 and 118 are connected to each other, in response to the engagement of the surface 140 of protrusion 126 with the second support portion 124, the breakable portion 128 is adapted to break and the integrated circuit is adapted to disconnect, so that the RFID tag 132 does not transmit RF signals to the wireless transceiver device 136. Alternatively, in this example, when the breakable portion 128 breaks, the connection indicator 120 emits an acoustic signal or other audible sound that can be heard by a technician connecting the electrical connectors 116 and 118. In other examples, it is conceivable that the connection indicator 120 comprises only a single piece 130 without the RFID tag 132, such that the feedback consists only of the acoustic signal generated by the breakage of the breakable portion 128.

[0049] Now for reference Figure 7 and Figure 8Another example of the connection indicator 220 includes a light source 242 mounted to an electrical connector 218 for emitting light to indicate that the electrical connectors are electrically connected to each other. The connection indicator 220 also includes a first polarizing filter 244 mounted to the electrical connector 218 for transmitting light along a first transmission plane. The connection indicator 220 also includes a second polarizing filter 246 mounted to the electrical connector 218 for transmitting light along a second transmission plane, and the second polarizing filter 246 is available in a first position relative to the first polarizing filter 244. Figure 7 ) and the second position ( Figure 8 The connection indicator 220 also includes a gear train 248, which is mounted to the electrical connector 218 and the second polarizing filter 246, for moving the second polarizing filter 246 to at least one of a first position and a second position in response to the electrical connectors 216 and 218 being connected to each other. Figure 8 In the illustrated example, in response to the electrical connectors 216, 218 being connected to each other, the gear train 248 moves the second polarizing filter 246 to a second position such that the first and second transmission planes are not positioned perpendicular to each other, thereby allowing the first and second polarizing filters to transmit light from the light source 242 to a technician determining whether the electrical connectors 216, 218 are connected to each other. However, it is conceivable that, in response to the electrical connectors 216, 218 being connected to each other, the gear train 248 could alternatively move the second polarizing filter 246 to a second position such that the first and second transmission planes are positioned perpendicular to each other, blocking light. In other words, the gear train 248, along with the first polarizing filter 244 and the second polarizing filter 246, could be configured to transmit light visible to a technician to indicate whether the electrical connectors are connected or disconnected.

[0050] Although Figure 2The connection indicator 120 includes a protrusion 126 without any teeth, but the connection indicator 220 includes a gear train 248 having a rack 250 attached to the electrical connector 216. The gear train 248 also includes a pinion 252 rotatably mounted to another electrical connector 218, and the pinion 252 is driven by the rack 250 in response to the electrical connectors 216, 218 being connected to each other. The gear train 248 also includes a first bevel gear 254 rotatably mounted to the electrical connector 218 and engaging the pinion 252. The first bevel gear 254 is driven by the pinion 252. The gear train 248 also includes a second bevel gear 256 rotatably mounted to the electrical connector 218 and engaging the first bevel gear 254. The second bevel gear 256 is driven by the first bevel gear 254, and the second polarizing filter 246 is moved by the second bevel gear 256. In this example, the second bevel gear 256 is coupled to a drive shaft 258, which is coupled to the central portion 260 of the second polarizing filter 246. It is conceivable that the gear train may have other suitable gears and / or include biasing components, such as torsion springs, for returning the second polarizing filter from the second position to the first position.

[0051] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 Another example of the gear train 348 used to connect the indicator 320 is... Figure 7 and Figure 8 The gear train 248 for connecting indicator 220 is similar, and gear train 348 has similar parts identified by the same reference numerals plus 100. However, although Figure 7 and Figure 8 The gear train 248 includes a second bevel gear 256, but the gear train 348 includes an annular bevel gear 356 attached to the outer peripheral portion 362 of the second polarizing filter 346. Although Figures 7 to 10 Each example shown includes two pairs of gears that engage with each other, but it is conceivable that other examples of the connecting indicator may have more or fewer pairs of gears. As a non-limiting example only, the gear train may include a ball screw with a threaded shaft having helical raceways for ball bearings to act as a precision screw.

[0052] Now for reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 Another example of an electrical connector assembly 414 with a connection indicator 420 is similar to Figures 3 to 6 An electrical connector assembly 114 having a connection indicator 120. Assembly 414 has similar components identified by the same reference numerals plus 300. However, although... Figures 3 to 6The connection indicator 120 includes an RFID tag 132 attached to the single piece 130 and positioned within a recess 138 of the electrical connector 118, but the connection indicator 420 is a wireless pressure sensor 464 positioned within a recess 438 of the electrical connector 418. Figure 12 As shown, electrical connector 416 includes a protrusion 426 with a surface 440 received within a recess 438 for engaging with wireless pressure sensor 464 in response to electrical connection between the first electrical connector 416 and the second electrical connector 418. Wireless pressure sensor 464 transmits electronic signals to a wireless transceiver device to notify a technician that connectors 416 and 418 are electrically connected to each other.

[0053] refer to Figure 13 An enlarged cross-sectional view of another example of fasteners 566 and 568 used in electrical connector assembly 514 is shown. Fasteners 566 and 568 are... Figure 2 The fasteners 166 and 168 of the electrical connector assembly 114 are similar, and assembly 114 has the same parts identified by the same reference numerals plus 400. However, although Figure 2 The electrical connector assembly 114 has a connection indicator 120 in the form of a protrusion 126 for engaging with a single piece 130 to disconnect a breakable portion 128 and an integrated circuit 134 attached to the breakable portion 128. However, the electrical connector assembly 514 has one or more connection indicators 520 in the form of wireless pressure sensors 564, 565 attached to associated fasteners 566, 568. More specifically, the pair of electrical connectors 516, 518 have associated first fasteners 566 and second fasteners 568, for example, a pair of hook-and-loop fasteners, which engage with each other to keep the electrical connectors 516, 518 connected to each other. Wireless pressure sensors 564, 565 are attached to the associated first fasteners 566 and second fasteners 568 such that the other of the first fasteners 566 and second fasteners 568 actuates the associated wireless pressure sensor in response to the engagement of the first fasteners 566 and second fasteners 568. At least one of the wireless pressure sensors 564 and 565 emits an electronic signal in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other and the fasteners 566 and 568 engaging with each other. Electrical connector 516 defines a recess 538 in which one wireless pressure sensor 564 is positioned, and another electrical connector 518 includes a surface 540 for engaging with the wireless pressure sensor 565.

[0054] Now for reference Figures 14 to 17 Another example of electrical connector assembly 614 is... Figures 3 to 6 The electrical connector assembly 114 is similar and has similar parts identified by the same reference numerals plus 500. However, although Figures 3 to 6The connection indicator 120 has an integrated circuit 134 that disconnects in response to electrical connectors 116, 118 being electrically connected to each other. However, the connection indicator 620 includes an RFID tag 632 with an integrated circuit 634 having a first portion 670 attached to a protrusion 626 of the first electrical connector 616 and a second portion 672 positioned adjacent to a recess 638 of the second electrical connector 618. When the first electrical connector 616 and the second electrical connectors 616, 618 are connected to each other, in response to the protrusion 626 being received within the recess 638, the first portion 670 and the second portion 672 are electrically connected to each other to complete or close the integrated circuit 634 and transmit RF signals to the wireless transceiver device 636.

[0055] Now for reference Figure 18 It provides a way to operate Figure 2 A flowchart of an example of method 700 for an electrical connector assembly 114. Method 700 begins at block 702, where electrical connectors 116 and 118 are connected to each other. In this example, a protrusion 126 extends from electrical connector 116. Figures 2 to 6 The recess 138 is aligned with the recess 138 formed in another electrical connector 118, such that when the electrical connectors 116, 118 are electrically connected to each other, the recess 138 accommodates the protrusion 126.

[0056] At block 704, in response to either the electrical connectors 116 and 118 being connected or disconnected from each other, the connection indicator 120 generates feedback including radio frequency signals, electronic signals, visible light, and / or acoustic signals. Continuing with the previous example, in response to the electrical connectors 116 and 118 being electrically connected to each other, the surface 140 of the protrusion 126 engages with the second support portion 124 of the single piece 130 to cause the breakable portion 128 to break and disconnect the integrated circuit 134 attached to the breakable portion 128. In other examples ( Figures 7 to 10 In this configuration, the connection indicator includes a first polarizing filter and a second polarizing filter, as well as a gear train. The first and second polarizing filters have associated first and second transmission planes. The gear train is used to move the second polarizing filter relative to the first polarizing filter in response to a technician electrically connecting the first and second electrical connectors to each other, thereby emitting visible light to the technician. Figures 11 to 13 In other examples, the connection indicator includes one or more wireless pressure sensors attached to one or more electrical connectors, such that the wireless pressure sensors engage in response to an electrical connection between the electrical connectors to transmit electronic signals to a wireless transceiver device. In yet another example ( Figures 14 to 17In this embodiment, the connection indicator includes an RFID tag with an integrated circuit having a first portion carried by a protrusion extending from one of the electrical connectors and a second portion positioned adjacent to a recess formed in the other electrical connector, such that in response to the electrical connectors being electrically connected to each other, the first portion and the second portion are electrically connected to each other to transmit an RF signal.

[0057] Therefore, it should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. After reading the above description, many embodiments and applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, in addition to the examples provided. The scope of the invention should not be determined by reference to the above description, but rather by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. Future developments in the art discussed herein are expected and contemplated, and the disclosed systems and methods will be incorporated into such future embodiments. In summary, it should be understood that the invention is capable of modifications and variations and is limited only by the following claims.

[0058] All terms used in the claims are intended to be given their simple and common meaning as understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise expressly indicated herein. In particular, the use of singular articles such as “a,” “the,” and “the” should be understood to refer to one or more of the indicated elements, unless the claims set forth an explicit limitation to the contrary.

[0059] The description in this disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and variations thereof without departing from the spirit of this disclosure are intended to fall within its scope. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the scheme and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An electrical connector assembly for a motor vehicle, the electrical connector assembly comprising: A pair of electrical connectors for connecting each other to close a circuit; as well as A connection indicator is attached to at least one of the electrical connectors, wherein the connection indicator comprises: The first support portion is attached to one of the electrical connectors; A second support portion is used for engagement with another of the electrical connectors in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other; and A breakable portion, wherein the first support portion and the second support portion are connected to each other, the breakable portion being adapted to break in response to engagement of the second support portion with one of the electrical connectors and the electrical connectors being connected to each other; The connection indicator generates feedback in response to the breakage of the fragile part, and the connection indicator is disconnected from the circuit. The feedback is at least one of radio frequency signals, electronic signals, visible light, and acoustic signals.

2. The electrical connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the first support portion and the second support portion have associated first thickness and second thickness, and the breakable portion has a third thickness less than each of the first thickness and the second thickness.

3. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first support portion, the second support portion, and the breakable portion are integral components of a single piece.

4. The electrical connector assembly of claim 3, wherein one of the electrical connectors defines a recess, the connection indicator is positioned within the recess, and the other of the electrical connectors includes a surface adapted to engage with a second support portion of the connection indicator in response to the electrical connectors being connected to each other.

5. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 4, further comprising: An RFID tag having an integrated circuit coupled to the breakable portion, the integrated circuit disconnecting in response to the breakage of the breakable portion, so that the RFID tag does not transmit radio frequency signals to a wireless transceiver device.

6. The electrical connector assembly of claim 5, wherein the radio frequency identification tag is capable of transmitting radio frequency signals to the wireless transceiver device before the electrical connectors are connected to each other and the integrated circuit is disconnected.

7. The electrical connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the connection indicator emits an acoustic signal in response to the breakage of the fragile portion.

Images