Electrical components

Abstract

An electrical component may include a first housing unit, a second housing unit, and a locking member. The first housing unit may include a guide portion. The second housing unit may be releasably connected to the first housing unit. The locking member may be configured to slidably engage the guide portion. The locking member may be adjustable relative to the first and second housing units to an unlocked position and a locked position. When the locking member is in the unlocked position, the second housing unit can be removed from the first housing unit. When the locking member is in the locked position, the second housing unit may be secured to the first housing unit via the locking member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to electrical components, which may include electrical units, electrical unit housings, and / or electrical connectors, such as those that can be used in conjunction with a vehicle. background

[0002] The following background description is provided for informational purposes only. Therefore, no aspect of this background description is expressly or implicitly acknowledged as prior art to this disclosure unless otherwise proven to be prior art in any other way.

[0003] The use and / or assembly of some electrical components can be relatively complex. For example, for some designs, connecting the first housing unit and the second housing unit can be a complex process that may involve many different parts and / or may not produce a sufficiently secure connection.

[0004] Therefore, solutions / options are needed to minimize or eliminate one or more challenges or drawbacks of electrical components. The foregoing discussion is intended to illustrate examples in the field only and is not a denial of scope.

[0005] Overview

[0006] In an embodiment, an electrical component may include a first housing unit, a second housing unit, and / or a locking member. The first housing unit may include a guide portion. The second housing unit may be releasably connected to the first housing unit. The locking member may be configured to slidably engage the guide portion. The locking member may be adjustable relative to the first and second housing units to an unlocked position and a locked position. When the locking member is in the unlocked position, the second housing unit can be removed from the first housing unit. When the locking member is in the locked position, the second housing unit may be secured to the first housing unit via the locking member.

[0007] In some embodiments, the locking member is removably and slidably connected to the second housing unit.

[0008] In some embodiments, the locking member is adjustable to a removal position; and when the locking member is in the removal position, the locking member is removable from the second housing unit.

[0009] In some embodiments, the guide portion includes a groove configured to receive a flange of the locking member; and when the locking member is in the locked position, the flange engages with the groove and connects the locking member and the second housing unit to the first housing unit.

[0010] In some embodiments, the guide portion includes a guide surface that at least partially defines the groove; and the guide surface includes a first surface portion that is inclined toward the interior space of the first housing unit, such that when the locking member is adjusted toward the locking position, the locking member (i) contacts the first surface portion, (ii) moves toward the interior space of the first housing unit, and (iii) presses the second housing unit against the first housing unit.

[0011] In some embodiments, the locking member includes a groove; the second housing unit includes a connector protruding from the second housing unit, the connector being at least partially disposed in the groove; when the locking member is adjusted toward the unlocked position, the connector slides along the groove toward a first end of the groove; and when the locking member is adjusted toward the locked position, the connector slides along the groove toward a second end of the groove disposed opposite to the first end of the groove.

[0012] In some embodiments, the connector includes a lateral protrusion; and the lateral protrusion of the connector is configured to engage with the locking member to restrict the removal of the connector from the slot and to connect the locking member to the second housing unit.

[0013] In some embodiments, the locking member is removably and slidably connected to the second housing unit; the locking member is adjustable to a removed position; the slot includes an extension portion through which the connector is insertable into and / or removable from the slot; and when the locking member is in the removed position, the connector is disposed in the extension portion of the slot such that the locking member can be removed from the second housing unit.

[0014] In some embodiments, the connector includes a first lateral protrusion and a second lateral protrusion; the first lateral protrusion and the second lateral protrusion extend from an end of the connector in opposite directions; and the distance from the free end of the first lateral protrusion to the free end of the second lateral protrusion is equal to or less than the width of the extended portion of the slot; and greater than the width of the slot outside the extended portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second housing unit includes a hook connector configured to engage the locking member; and when the locking member is in the unlocked position, the hook connector engages the locking member and connects the locking member to the second housing unit.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second housing unit includes a hook member configured to engage the locking member; and when the locking member is in the locked position, the hook member engages the locking member and connects the locking member to the second housing unit.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second housing unit includes a tab; the locking member includes a latch configured to engage the tab; and when the locking member is in the locked position, the latch engages the tab and restricts adjustment of the locking member toward the unlocked position.

[0018] In some embodiments, the locking member includes a latch stop; and the latch stop is configured to be spaced apart from the latch and to limit the deflection of the latch.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first housing unit includes (i) an opening configured to receive a portion of the second housing unit and (ii) an electrical connector receiving portion; the second housing unit includes an electrical connector; and the opening, the electrical connector receiving portion and the electrical connector are configured such that the portion of the second housing unit can be inserted into the opening in a first direction, and subsequently, the second housing unit can be adjusted in a second direction different from the first direction to engage the electrical connector with the electrical connector receiving portion.

[0020] In some embodiments, the second housing unit includes: a connector; a tab; a hook member; and a hook connector. The locking member includes: a groove configured to receive the connector; a flange configured to slidably engage a recess in the guide portion; and a latch configured to engage the tab. The connector is slidably disposed in the groove. When the locking member is in the unlocked position: the connector is disposed in a first groove portion of the groove; the hook connector engages with the locking member; and the locking member is connected to the second housing unit via the connector and the hook connector. When the locking member is in the locked position: the flange engages with the recess and connects the locking member to the first housing unit; the connector is disposed in a second groove portion of the groove; the latch engages with the tab and resists adjustment of the locking member toward the unlocked position; and the hook member engages with the locking member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the locking member is removably and slidably connected to the second housing unit; the locking member is adjustable to a removed position; the slot includes an expansion slot portion through which the connector is insertable into and / or removable from the slot; the expansion slot portion of the slot is disposed between the first slot portion and the second slot portion; and when the locking member is in the removed position, the connector is disposed in the expansion slot portion such that the locking member can be removed from the second housing unit.

[0022] In an embodiment, an electrical component may include a first housing unit, a second housing unit, and a locking member. The first housing unit may include a guide portion having a recess. The second housing unit may be releasably connected to the first housing unit. The second housing unit may include a connector, a tab, a hook member, and / or a hook connector. The locking member may include a slot configured to receive the connector, a flange configured to slidably engage the recess of the guide portion, and / or a latch configured to engage the tab. The connector may be slidably disposed in the slot. The locking member may be adjustable relative to the first and second housing units to an unlocked position and a locked position. When the locking member is in the unlocked position, the second housing unit can be removed from the first housing unit, the connector may be disposed in a first slot portion of the slot, the hook connector may engage with the locking member, and / or the locking member may be connected to the second housing unit via the connector and the hook connector. When the locking member is in the locked position, the flange can engage with the groove and connect the locking member to the first housing unit, the connector can be disposed in the second groove portion of the groove, the latch can engage with the tab and resist adjustment of the locking member toward the unlocked position, the hook member can engage with the locking member, and / or the second housing unit can be fastened to the first housing unit via the locking member.

[0023] In one embodiment, a method of assembling an electrical component may include releasably connecting a first housing unit and a second housing unit. The method may include preventing the first and second housing units from being disconnected from each other by adjusting a locking member from an unlocked position to a locked position. Adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position may include engaging the locking member with a guide portion of the first housing unit.

[0024] In some embodiments, engaging the locking member with the guide portion includes inserting a flange of the locking member into a groove in the guide portion, wherein the groove is at least partially defined by a guide surface of the guide portion having a first surface portion and a second surface portion, and the first surface portion is inclined toward the interior space of the first housing unit; and adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position includes moving the second housing unit toward the first housing unit by sliding the flange along the first surface portion toward the second surface portion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method includes: setting the locking member in a removed position on the second housing unit before connecting the first housing unit and the second housing unit; and releasably connecting the locking member to the second housing unit by adjusting the locking member from the removed position to the unlocked position; wherein, when the locking member is set in the removed position, the locking member is capable of being set on the second housing unit and can be removed from the second housing unit.

[0026] In some embodiments, adjusting the locking member from the removed position to the unlocked position includes engaging the locking member with a hook connector of the second housing unit; and adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position includes disengaging the locking member from the hook connector; and engaging the locking member with a hook member of the second housing unit.

[0027] The foregoing and other possible aspects, features, details, utility and / or advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from reading the following description and by consulting the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0028] While the claims are not limited to the specific illustrations, an understanding of the various aspects can be obtained through the discussion of various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated or omitted to better illustrate and explain the inventive aspects of the examples. Furthermore, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings or disclosed in the detailed description below. Exemplary illustrations are described in detail with reference to the following drawings:

[0029] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of an electrical component according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a partial exploded view that generally illustrates an embodiment of an electrical component according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0031] Figure 3A This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a first housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 3B This is a partially enlarged perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a first housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0033] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a second housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0034] Figure 4C This is a bottom view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a second housing unit according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0035] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a locking component according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a locking member disposed above and vertically aligned with the second housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a locking member disposed on a second housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure in a removed position.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a perspective view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a locking member disposed on a second housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure in the unlocked position.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view that generally illustrates an embodiment of a second housing unit partially disposed in the reception portion of a first housing unit in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 10D These are perspective views, first cross-sectional perspective views, top views, and second cross-sectional perspective views that generally illustrate embodiments of a first housing unit, a second housing unit, and a locking member in the unlocked position, in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0041] Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11CThese are perspective, cross-sectional, and top views, respectively, which generally illustrate embodiments of a first housing unit, a second housing unit, and a locking member in a locked position in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. Detailed description

[0042] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with embodiments and / or examples, such embodiments and / or examples are not intended to limit the present disclosure to those embodiments and / or examples. Rather, the present disclosure covers alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

[0043] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 1A-Figure 2 and Figures 9-11C As generally illustrated, electrical component 100 may include a first housing unit 200 (e.g., a distribution box), a second housing unit 300 (e.g., a fuse box), and / or a locking member 400. Electrical component 100 may be configured to receive power and / or distribute power to one or more other components (e.g., vehicle components / systems). The first housing unit 200 may be connected to and / or mounted on a support structure such as a vehicle. The second housing unit 300 may be connected to and / or mounted on the first housing unit 200, which may establish a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the second housing unit 300 and the first housing unit 200. The locking member 400 may be releasably connected to the first housing unit 200 and / or the second housing unit 300, for example, to fasten, lock, and / or secure the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200.

[0044] For example, in the embodiments, Figures 1A-3B As generally illustrated, the first housing unit 200 may have a generally rectangular shape and / or may be configured to receive and / or hold one or more first electrical components 202, such as circuit boards, relays, fuses, switches, controllers, capacitors, resistors, inductors, diodes, etc. (see, for example, Figure 9 , Figure 10B , Figure 10D and Figure 11B One or more first electrical components 202 may include one or more first electrical contacts 202a (see, for example, Figure 3A and Figure 10D The first housing unit 200 may have a first base 204 and a first cover 220. The first cover 220 may be releasably connected (e.g., via one or more connectors, fasteners, latches, etc.) to the first base 204, for example, to close the first base 204 and / or define a first interior space 206 (see, for example, Figure 9 , Figure 10B , Figure 10D and Figure 11B One or more first electrical components 202 may be disposed in the first internal space 206.

[0045] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3A and Figure 3B As generally illustrated, the first cover 220 may include a first main portion 222 and one or more first wall portions 224. The first main portion 222 may be generally planar and / or have a generally rectangular shape. One or more first wall portions 224 may project generally along the Z direction (e.g., perpendicular or obliquely relative to the first main portion 222) away from the first main portion 222, and / or may be configured to engage, contact, and / or abut against the first base 204. The first main portion 222 may have a first outer surface 222a, which may be generally oriented in the Z direction.

[0046] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3A and Figure 3B As generally illustrated, the first cover 220 and / or the first main portion 222 may include an electrical connector hole 230 and / or one or more hole walls 232. The electrical connector hole 230 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the first electrical connector 308 and / or the second electrical contact 302a, see [reference]). Figure 4B This allows for the establishment of a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300. The electrical connector hole 230 may be disposed in the first outer surface 222a of the first main portion 222 of the first cover 220 and / or may extend through the first main portion 222 to the first internal space 206 of the first housing unit 200 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 9 In some examples, the electrical connector hole 230 may be defined by and / or extend through a portion of the defining reception portion 240 of the first main portion 222. The electrical connector hole 230 may be defined at least partially by the first main portion 222 of the first cover 220 and / or one or more hole walls 232. One or more first electrical components 202 disposed in the first housing unit 200, such as one or more first electrical contacts 202a, may be disposed in and / or protrude into the electrical connector hole 230 (see, for example, Figure 3A and Figure 10D When the first electrical connector 308 of the second housing unit 300 engages with and / or is disposed / received in the electrical connector hole 230, the first electrical contact 202a of the first housing unit 200 may engage, contact, and / or abut against one or more second electrical contacts 302a of the second housing unit 300 (see, for example, Figure 10DThis can establish an electrical connection between the first housing unit 200 and / or the second housing unit 300.

[0047] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3A and Figure 3B As generally illustrated, the first cover 220 and / or the first main portion 222 may include a receiving portion 240, one or more receiving portion walls 242a-242d, and / or a flange 244. The receiving portion 240 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the second base 304 and / or the second cover 320). The receiving portion 240 may be at least partially defined by a first outer surface 222a of the first main portion 222 and / or one or more receiving portion walls 242a-242d. In at least some embodiments, the receiving portion 240 may be configured as a recess provided in the first outer surface 222a of the first cover 220.

[0048] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3A and Figure 3B As generally illustrated, one or more receiving walls 242a-242d may be configured to engage, contact, and / or abut against the second housing unit 300. One or more receiving walls 242a-242d may project generally along the Z direction (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely relative to the first main portion 222) away from the first main portion 222 (e.g., the first outer surface 222a) and / or extend generally along the first main portion 222 in the X and / or Y directions. One or more receiving walls 242a-242d may extend partially or completely around the outer periphery of the receiving portion 240, and / or may at least partially define the receiving portion 240. One or more receiving walls 242a-242d may be configured as part of and / or defined by a portion of the first wall portion 224 of the first cover 220. One or more receiving walls 242a-242d may include a first receiving wall 242a, a second receiving wall 242b, a third receiving wall 242c, and / or a fourth receiving wall 242d. The first receiving wall 242a and the second receiving wall 242b may be disposed opposite to each other and / or extend generally in the X direction. The third receiving wall 242c and the fourth receiving wall 242d may be disposed opposite to each other, may extend generally in the Y direction, and / or may extend between the end of the first receiving wall 242a and the end of the second receiving wall 242b, and / or connect the end of the first receiving wall 242a to the end of the second receiving wall 242b. The third receiving wall 242c may be disposed closer to the second end 200b of the first housing unit 200 than the fourth receiving wall 242d. The fourth receiving wall 242d may be disposed closer to the first end 200a of the first housing unit 200 than the third receiving wall 242c.

[0049] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3A and Figure 3B As generally illustrated, flange 244 may project generally toward third receiving wall 242c from fourth receiving wall 242d (e.g., generally in the X direction). Flange 244 may be spaced apart from first main portion 222 and / or first outer surface 222a (e.g., at the free end of fourth receiving wall 242d). Flange 244 may extend longitudinally generally in the Y direction (e.g., along the free end of fourth receiving wall 242d). Flange 244 may extend between and / or connect first receiving wall 242a, second receiving wall 242b, and / or fourth receiving wall 242d. Flange 244, first receiving wall 242a, second receiving wall 242b, and / or fourth receiving wall 242d may at least partially define opening 246, which may open toward third receiving wall 242c (e.g., generally in the X direction). Opening 246 may be configured to receive and / or retain at least a portion of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the first end 300a of the second housing unit 300) (see, for example, Figure 9 , Figure 10B and Figure 11B ).

[0050] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3A and Figure 3B As generally illustrated, the first cover 220 may include one or more guide portions 258a, 258b (e.g., first guide portion 258a and / or second guide portion 258b), which may be configured to engage, contact, and / or receive at least a portion of the locking member 400. The guide portions 258a, 258b may project generally along the Z-direction (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely relative to the main portion) away from the first main portion 222 (e.g., the first outer surface 222a) of the first cover 220. The guide portions 258a, 258b may be positioned adjacent to and / or near the receiving portion 240 and / or one or more receiving portion walls 242a, 242b. The guide portions 258a, 258b may additionally and / or alternatively be integrally formed with and / or defined by a portion of one or more receiving portion walls 242a, 242b. Guide portions 258a, 258b may include one or more guide regions 260a-260d, which may be configured to engage a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., locking member flanges 410a-410d) and / or guide the movement / adjustment of the locking member 400.

[0051] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3B , Figure 10B and Figure 11BAs generally illustrated, guide portions 260a-260d may be configured to engage a portion of locking member 400 (e.g., locking member flanges 410a-410d) and / or guide movement / adjustment of locking member 400. Guide portions 260a-260d may include recesses 262a-262d configured to receive at least a portion of locking member 400 (e.g., locking member flanges 410a-410d). Recesses 262a-262d may extend generally in the X direction and / or may protrude into guide portions 258a, 258b (e.g., generally in the Y direction), such that recesses 262a-262d open toward the receiving portion 240 of the first cover 220. Guide portions 260a-260d may include notches 264a-264d. The notches 264a-264d may extend generally in the Z direction through the guide portions 258a, 258b to the recesses 262a-262d, and / or may facilitate the movement, adjustment, and / or insertion (e.g., generally in the Z direction) of a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., locking member flanges 410a-410d) into the recesses 262a-262d. The guide portions 260a-260d may include protrusions 266a-266d, which may at least partially define the recesses 262a-262d and / or the notches 264a-264d. The protrusions 266a-266d may be spaced apart from the first main portion 222 and / or one or more receiving walls 242a, 242b. The protrusions 266a-266d may include guide surfaces 268a-268d, which may at least partially define recesses 262a-262d and / or may generally face the first cover 220 and / or the receiving walls 242a, 242b (e.g., generally in the Z direction). The guide surfaces 268a-268d may include first surface portions 270a-270d (e.g., inclined portions) and / or second surface portions 272a-272d (e.g., flat portions). The first surface portions 270a-270d may extend from recesses 264a-264d to the second surface portions 272a-272d. The first surface portions 270a-270d may be inclined and / or angled toward the first housing unit 200 (e.g., the first internal space 206). In some examples, as the first surface portions 270a-270d approach the second surface portions 272a-272d, for example, generally in the X direction, the height of the grooves 262a-262d (for example, generally in the Z direction) can be reduced.The first surface portions 270a-270d can be configured to guide, move, adjust, etc. (e.g., generally in the Z direction) the locking member 400 toward the first housing unit 200 when the locking member 400 is adjusted toward the locking position. This can adjust the second housing unit 300 toward the first housing unit 200 and / or press the second housing unit 300 against the first housing unit 200, which can provide a tight mechanical connection between the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300.

[0052] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 3B As generally illustrated, the first guide portion 258a may be disposed adjacent to a portion of the first receiving portion wall 242a, connected to a portion of the first receiving portion wall 242a, and / or formed by a portion of the first receiving portion wall 242a. The first guide portion 258a may include a first guide area 260a and / or a second guide area 260b. The first guide area 260a may be positioned adjacent to and / or near the third receiving portion wall 242c. The first guide area 260a may be configured to engage the first locking member flange 410a. The first guide area 260a may include a first groove 262a, a first notch 264a, a first protrusion 266a, and / or a first guide surface 268a having a first surface portion 270a and / or a second surface portion 272a. The second guide area 260b may be positioned adjacent to and / or near the fourth receiving portion wall 242d. The second guide area 260b may be configured to engage the second locking member flange 410b. The second guide region 260b may include a second groove 262b, a second notch 264b, a second protrusion 266b, and / or a second guide surface 268b having a first surface portion 270b and / or a second surface portion 272b.

[0053] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 10B and Figure 11BAs generally illustrated, the second guide portion 258b may be configured as a portion adjacent to, connected to, and / or formed by a portion of the second receiving wall 242b. The second guide portion 258b may include a third guide region 260c and / or a fourth guide region 260d. The third guide region 260c may be configured adjacent to and / or near the third receiving wall 242c. The third guide region 260c may be configured to engage the third locking member flange 410c. The third guide region 260c may include a third groove 262c, a third notch 264c, a third protrusion 266c, and / or a third guide surface 268c having a first surface portion 270c and / or a second surface portion 272c. The fourth guide region 260d may be disposed adjacent to and / or near the fourth receiving wall 242d. The fourth guide region 260d may be configured to engage the fourth locking member flange 410d. The fourth guide region 260d may include a fourth groove 262d, a fourth notch 264d, a fourth protrusion 266d and / or a fourth guide surface 268d having a first surface portion 270d and / or a second surface portion 272d.

[0054] In the embodiments, one or more guide portions 258a, 258b and / or one or more guide regions 260a-260d may not protrude substantially upward from the first main portion 222 in the Z direction, and / or may not be easily visible when assembling the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300. For example, guide portions 258a, 258b and / or one or more portions thereof may be defined by and / or constructed as part of the first main portion 222 of the first cover 220. The notches 264a-264d of the guide portions 258a, 258b may be provided (e.g., directly) in the first outer surface 222a of the first main portion 222 (e.g., adjacent to the receiving portion 240) and / or the protrusions 266a-266d of the guide portions 258a, 258b may be defined by a portion of the first main portion 222 and / or configured as a portion of the first main portion 222 (e.g., a portion of the first outer surface 222a may define and / or form the outer surface of the protrusions 266a-266d). Additionally and / or alternatively, the guide portions 258a, 258b and / or one or more portions thereof may be substantially disposed within the receiving portion 240, may be disposed in and / or defined by one or more surfaces defining the receiving portion 240, and / or may be defined by a portion of the receiving portion walls 242a-242d and / or configured as a portion of the receiving portion walls 242a-242d. In such an example, at least a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., one or more locking member wall portions 404 and / or one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d) can be inserted into the receiving portion 240 to engage one or more guide portions 258a, 258b.

[0055] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 1A-Figure 2 and Figures 4A-4C As generally illustrated, the second housing unit 300 may have a generally rectangular shape and / or may be configured to receive and / or hold one or more second electrical components 302, such as circuit boards, relays, fuses, switches, controllers, capacitors, resistors, inductors, diodes, etc. (see, for example, Figure 9 The second electrical component 302 may include one or more second electrical contacts 302a (see, for example, Figure 4C and 10D ) and / or one or more third electrical contacts 302b (see, for example, Figure 4A , Figure 10C and Figure 11CThe second housing unit 300 may have a second base 304 and a second cover 320. The second cover 320 may be releasably connected (e.g., via one or more connectors, fasteners, latches, etc.) to the second base 304, for example, to close the second base 304 and / or define a second interior space 306 (see, for example, Figure 9 One or more second electrical components 302 may be disposed in the second internal space 306.

[0056] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 4B , Figure 4C , Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10D As generally illustrated, the second housing unit 300 may include a first electrical connector 308 configured to engage an electrical connector hole 230 of the first housing unit 200 and / or be received in the electrical connector hole 230 of the first housing unit 200 to, for example, facilitate a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300. The first electrical connector 308 may be disposed on, integrally formed with, and / or connected to a second base 304. The first electrical connector 308 may extend from the second base 304 generally in the Z direction. One or more second electrical components 302, such as one or more second electrical contacts 302a, may be disposed in and / or protrude into the first electrical connector 308 (e.g., generally in the Z direction). When the first electrical connector 308 engages with and / or is disposed / received in the electrical connector hole 230 of the first housing unit 200, one or more second electrical contacts 302a may engage, contact, and / or abut against one or more first electrical contacts 202a of the first housing unit 200, which can establish an electrical connection between the first housing unit 200 and / or the second housing unit 300. In some examples, a sealing member 102 (e.g., annular seal, gasket, retaining ring, etc.) may be at least partially disposed and / or pressed between the first electrical connector 308 and one or more hole walls 232, which can facilitate the establishment of a sealing connection between the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300. Before the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300 are connected to each other, the sealing member 102 may be initially disposed in the electrical connector hole 230 (see, for example, Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) and / or on the first electrical connector 308 (see, for example, Figure 4C and Figure 9 ).

[0057] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 1A-Figure 2 , Figures 4A-4C , Figures 10A-10C and Figures 11A-11C As generally illustrated, the second housing unit 300 may include a second electrical connector 310 configured to engage one or more external components (e.g., wiring harnesses, adapters, cables, etc.) to electrically connect one or more first electrical components 202 and / or one or more second electrical components 302 to one or more external components, elements, and / or devices. The second electrical connector 310 may be disposed on, integrally formed with, and / or connected to the second cover 320. The second electrical connector 310 may extend from the second cover 320 generally in the Z direction. One or more second electrical components 302 disposed in the second housing unit 300, such as one or more third electrical contacts 302b, may be disposed in and / or protrude into the second electrical connector 310.

[0058] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 4A and Figure 4B As generally illustrated, the second cover 320 may include a second main portion 322 and one or more second wall portions 324. The second main portion 322 may be generally planar and / or have a generally rectangular shape. One or more second wall portions 324 may project generally along the Z direction (e.g., perpendicular or obliquely relative to the second main portion 322) away from the second main portion 322, and / or may be configured to engage, contact, and / or abut against the second base 304. The second main portion 322 may have a second outer surface 322a that may be generally oriented in the Z direction (e.g., away from the first housing unit 200).

[0059] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figures 6-8 , Figures 10A-10C and Figures 11A-11CAs generally illustrated, the second cover 320 may include one or more hook members 330 configured to engage and / or receive a portion of the locking member 400, for example, when the locking member 400 is positioned in a locked position. The hook members 330 may project generally along the Z-direction (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely relative to the second main portion 322) away from the second main portion 322 (e.g., the second outer surface 322a). The hook members 330 may include hook member protrusions 332, which may be located at a free end of the hook member 330 and / or may be spaced apart from the second main portion 322 (e.g., the second outer surface 322a), for example, in the Z-direction. The hook member protrusions 332 may extend toward the second end 300b of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., generally in the X-direction), such that the hook members 330 define a space 334 for receiving a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., a portion of the first end 400a of the locking member 400). When the locking member 400 is in the locked position, the hook member 330 can engage a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., a portion of the first end 400a of the locking member 400), which can connect the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300. When the locking member 400 is not in the locked position, for example when the locking member 400 is in the removed position and / or the unlocked position, the hook member 330 may not engage a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., a portion of the first end 400a of the locking member 400).

[0060] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figures 6-8 , Figures 10A-10C and Figures 11A-11CAs generally illustrated, the second cover 320 may include one or more tabs 340 configured to engage the latch 430 of the locking member 400 and / or be received in the latch recess 432 of the latch 430, for example, when the locking member 400 is in the locked position. When the locking member 400 is not in the locked position, such as when the locking member 400 is in the removed position and / or unlocked position, the tabs 340 may not engage with the latch 430 and / or latch recess 432 of the locking member 400. The tabs 340 may project generally along the Z direction (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely relative to the second main portion 322) away from the second main portion 322 (e.g., the second outer surface 322a). The tabs 340 may include a stop surface 342 that may generally face the first end 300a of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., generally in the X direction). When the locking member 400 is in the locked position, the stop surface 342 of the tab 340 may engage, contact, and / or abut against the latch 430 of the locking member 400. This may limit and / or prevent (i) the locking member 400 from being adjusted out of the locked position (e.g., adjusted toward the unlocked position and / or the removed position) and / or (ii) the latch 430 from disengaging from the tab 340. The tab 340 may include an inclined surface 344 that may extend obliquely relative to the second outer surface 322a and / or the stop surface 342. The inclined surface 344 may be configured to engage, contact, and / or deflect the latch 430 of the locking member 400 (e.g., generally away from the second housing unit 300 in the Z direction) when the locking member 400 is adjusted toward the locked position. This may facilitate insertion of the tab 340 into the latch recess 432 and / or engagement of the latch 430 with the stop surface 342.

[0061] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figures 6-8 , Figures 10A-10C and Figures 11A-11CAs generally illustrated, the second cover 320 may include one or more hook connectors 350a, 350b (e.g., a first hook connector 350a and / or a second hook connector 350b), which may be configured to engage and / or receive a portion of the locking member 400, for example, when the locking member 400 is in the unlocked position. The hook connectors 350a, 350b may project generally along the Z-direction (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely relative to the second main portion 322) away from the second main portion 322 (e.g., the second outer surface 322a). The hook connectors 350a, 350b may include hook connector protrusions 352a, 352b, which may be located at the free ends of the hook connectors 350a, 350b and / or may be spaced apart from the second main portion 322 (e.g., the second outer surface 322a). Hook connector protrusions 352a, 352b may extend toward a first end 300a of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., generally in the X direction) such that hook connectors 350a, 350b define spaces 354a, 354b for receiving a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., the first locking member edge 446a and / or the second locking member edge 446b). When the locking member 400 is in the unlocked position, hook connectors 350a, 350b may engage a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., the first locking member edge 446a and / or the second locking member edge 446b), which connects the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300. When the locking member 400 is not in the unlocked position, such as when the locking member 400 is in the removed position and / or the locked position, hook connectors 350a, 350b may not engage a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., the first locking member edge 446a and / or the second locking member edge 446b). In some examples, the first hook connector 350a and the second hook connector 350b may be positioned on opposite sides of the tab 340 relative to the Y direction.

[0062] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figures 6-8 , Figures 10A-10C and Figures 11A-11CAs generally illustrated, the second cover 320 may include one or more connectors 360, which may be configured to adjustably (e.g., slidably) engage the locking member 400. The connectors 360 may be configured to insert into and / or be removable from the slots 416 of the locking member 400 (e.g., via an extension slot portion 416c). For example, when the position of the locking member 400 is adjusted, the connectors 360 may be adjustable (e.g., slidable) within and / or along the slots 416. The connectors 360 may project generally along the Z-direction (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely relative to the second main portion 322) away from the second main portion 322 (e.g., the second outer surface 322a). Connector 360 may include one or more lateral protrusions 362, 364 (e.g., a first lateral protrusion 362 and / or a second lateral protrusion 364), which may be located at a free end of connector 360 and / or spaced apart from a second main portion 322 (e.g., a second outer surface 322a). The lateral protrusions 362, 364 may extend outward from connector 360 (e.g., generally in the Y direction) such that connector 360 defines one or more spaces 366a, 366b for receiving a portion of locking member 400. In some examples, the first lateral protrusion 362 and / or the second lateral protrusion 364 may extend from connector 360 in generally opposite directions such that at least a portion of connector 360 has a T-shaped cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the X direction. For example, when the locking member 400 is positioned in the unlocked and / or locked positions, the lateral protrusions 362, 364 may be configured to engage and / or contact the locking member 400 to restrict the connector 360 from being removed from the slot 416 of the locking member 400 and / or to connect the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300.

[0063] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figures 5A-10C and Figures 11A-11CAs generally illustrated, locking member 400 can be releasably connected to first housing unit 200 and / or second housing unit 300, for example, to fasten, lock, and / or secure the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200. Locking member 400 can be movable relative to the first housing unit 200 and / or the second housing unit 300 (e.g., adjustable, rotatable, pivotable, slidable, etc.). Locking member 400 can be moved to a locked position, in which it can fasten, lock, and / or secure the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200 to restrict and / or prevent removal of the second housing unit 300 from the first housing unit 200. Locking member 400 can be moved to an unlocked position, in which it can not fasten, lock, and / or secure the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200, which in turn allows the second housing unit 300 to be disconnected from and / or removed from the first housing unit 200. When in the unlocked position, the locking member 400 can be connected to and / or mounted on the second housing unit 300, and therefore can be removed from the first housing unit 200 together with the second housing unit 300 (e.g., simultaneously). The locking member 400 can be moved to a removed position, in which the locking member 400 can be connected to and / or disconnected from the first housing unit 200 and / or the second housing unit 300.

[0064] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 5A and Figure 5B As generally illustrated, locking member 400 may include a locking member main portion 402 and one or more locking member wall portions 404. Locking member main portion 402 may be generally planar and / or have a generally rectangular shape. One or more locking member wall portions 404 may project generally along the Z-direction (e.g., perpendicular or obliquely relative to locking member main portion 402) away from locking member main portion 402, and / or may be configured to engage, contact, and / or abut against first cover 220, second cover 320, and / or guide portions 258a, 258b. Locking member 400 may include a grip portion 406, which a user can grasp, for example, when adjusting the position of locking member 400.

[0065] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs generally illustrated, the locking member 400 may include one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d (e.g., a first locking member flange 410a, a second locking member flange 410b, a third locking member flange 410c, and / or a fourth locking member flange 410d), which may be configured to engage corresponding guide portions 258a, 258b, and / or corresponding guide regions 260a-260d of the first housing unit 200. The first locking member flange 410a may be configured to engage the first guide region 260a and / or adjust / slide in the first recess 262a. The second locking member flange 410b may be configured to engage the second guide region 260b and / or adjust / slide in the second recess 262b. The third locking member flange 410c may be configured to engage the third guide region 260c and / or adjust / slide in the third recess 262c. The fourth locking member flange 410d can be configured to engage the fourth guide region 260d and / or adjust / slide in the fourth groove 262d. The first locking member flange 410a and the third locking member flange 410c can be disposed opposite to each other at or around the second end 400b of the locking member 400. The second locking member flange 410b and the fourth locking member flange 410d can be disposed opposite to each other at or around the first end 400a of the locking member 400. The locking member flanges 410a-410d can be disposed on the locking member 400 (e.g., one or more locking member wall portions 404), connected to the locking member 400 (e.g., one or more locking member wall portions 404), and / or integrally formed with the locking member 400 (e.g., one or more locking member wall portions 404). Locking member flanges 410a-410d may project generally in the Y direction from locking member 400 and / or one or more locking member wall portions 404, and / or may extend generally in the X direction along a portion of locking member 400. When locking member 400 is in the unlocked position, one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d (e.g., all locking member flanges 410a-410d) may not engage their respective guide portions 260a-260d and / or recesses 262a-262d. When locking member 400 is not in the unlocked position, such as when locking member 400 is in the removed position and / or locked position, one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d (e.g., all locking member flanges 410a-410d) may engage their respective guide portions 260a-260d and / or recesses 262a-262d.

[0066] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs generally illustrated, the locking member 400 may include a slot 416 configured to adjustably receive and / or engage a connector 360 of the second housing unit 300. The slot 416 may extend longitudinally in the X direction and / or substantially in the Z direction through the locking member 400 (e.g., the main portion 402 of the locking member). The slot 416 may include a first slot portion 416a, a second slot portion 416b, and / or an extended slot portion 416c. The first slot portion 416a may be located at an end of the slot 416 closer to a first end 400a of the locking member 400. The second slot portion 416b may be located at an opposite end of the slot 416 closer to a second end 400b of the locking member 400. The first slot portion 416a and / or the second slot portion 416b may be configured to restrict and / or prevent the connector 360 of the second housing unit 300 from being removed from the slot 416 (e.g., because the connector 360 and / or one or more lateral protrusions 362, 364 contact the locking member main portion 402). An extension slot portion 416c may be disposed relative to the X direction between the first slot portion 416a and the second slot portion 416b. The extension slot portion 416c may be configured to allow the connector 360 of the second housing unit 300 to be inserted into and / or removed from the slot 416. For example, the distance from the free end of the first lateral protrusion 362 to the free end of the second lateral protrusion 364 may (i) be equal to or less than the width of the extension slot portion 416c (e.g., approximately in the Y direction) and / or (ii) be greater than the width of the slot 416 outside the extension slot portion 416c (e.g., the width of the first slot portion 416a and / or the width of the second slot portion 416b). Additionally and / or alternatively, the expansion slot portion 416c may have a shape complementary to and / or similar to that of the connector 360 (e.g., generally triangular). Due to the variation in width of the slot 416, the connector 360 may be inserted into and / or removed from the expansion slot portion 416c of the slot 416 (e.g., when the locking member 400 is in the removed position), and / or when the connector 360 is disposed in the first slot portion 416a and / or the second slot portion 416b (e.g., when the locking member 400 is not in the removed position), the removal of the connector 360 from the slot 416 may be restricted and / or prevented. When the locking member 400 is in the removed position, the connector 360 may be disposed in and / or aligned with the expansion slot portion 416c. When the locking member 400 is in the unlocked position, the connector 360 may be disposed in the first slot portion 416a. When the locking member 400 is in the locked position, the connector 360 can be disposed in the second slot portion 416b.

[0067] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs generally illustrated, locking member 400 may include latch 430 and / or latch stop 434. Latch 430 may be configured to engage tab 340 of second housing unit 300 to secure locking member 400 in a locked position. Latch 430 may include latch recess 432 configured to receive tab 340 of second housing unit 300. Latch 430 may be configured to resiliently deform (e.g., generally in the Z direction). Latch 430 may be configured to deflect away from second housing unit 300 toward a deflected position via inclined surface 344 of tab 340 when locking member 400 is adjusted toward the locked position, and / or return to an undeflected position when locking member 400 reaches the locked position and latch 430 transitions from contacting inclined surface 344 to contacting stop surface 342 of tab 340. Additionally and / or alternatively, the latch 430 may be configured to be actuated and / or deflected by a user to disengage the latch 430 and the tab 340 from each other, which may allow the locking member 400 to be adjusted to a disengaged position (e.g., toward a removed position and / or an unlocked position). For example, but not limited to, the latch 430 may latch the locking member 400 in the locked position until released by the user. The latch stop 434 may be configured to contact and / or abut the latch 430 to limit the bending and / or deflection of the latch 430 beyond a certain point, for example, when the latch 430 is actuated by the user (e.g., to prevent damage to the latch 430). The latch stop 434 may be at least partially disposed above the latch 430 and / or the locking member opening 440 relative to the Z direction, and / or may extend from a first side of the locking member 400 to a second side of the locking member 400 (e.g., generally in the Y direction). For example, the latch stop 434 may include a U-shaped configuration that can open toward the latch 430. The latch stop 434 can be configured such that when the locking member 400 moves between positions, the hook connectors 350a-350b can move and / or slide under the latch stop 434.

[0068] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs generally illustrated, the locking member 400 may include a locking member opening 440 configured to receive one or more hook connectors 350a, 350b and / or tabs 340 of the second housing unit 300. The locking member opening 440 may extend through the locking member 400 generally in the Z direction (e.g., the locking member main portion 402). The latch 430 of the locking member 400 may project into the locking member opening 440, for example, generally in the X direction. The locking member opening 440 may include a first opening portion 440a, a second opening portion 440b and / or a third opening portion 440c (e.g., a notch opening portion). The first opening portion 440a and / or the second opening portion 440b may be disposed and / or defined on opposite sides of the latch 430 relative to the Y direction, and / or may extend generally in the X direction adjacent to the latch 430. The first opening portion 440a may be defined at least partially by a first locking member edge 446a of the locking member 400. The second opening 440b may be at least partially defined by the second locking member edge 446b of the locking member 400. A third opening 440c may be disposed between the first opening 440a and / or the second opening 440b (e.g., relative to the Y direction). The first opening 440a may be configured to adjustably receive the first hook connector 350a, the second opening 440b may be configured to adjustably receive the second hook connector 350b, and / or the third opening 440c may be configured to adjustably receive the tab 340. For example, openings 440a-440c may be configured as tracks for receiving the tab 340 and / or the hook connectors 350a-350b to restrict movement of the locking member 400 relative to the second housing unit 300 and / or the first housing unit 200, thereby restricting movement of the locking member 400 in the X, Y, and / or Z directions.

[0069] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 7As generally illustrated, locking member 400 can be moved (e.g., adjusted, rotated, pivoted, slid, etc.) to a removed position. When locking member 400 is in the removed position, (i) connector 360 can be disposed in and / or aligned with expansion slot portion 416c, which allows connector 360 to be removed from slot 416 (e.g., in the Z direction), (ii) first hook connector 350a can be disposed in first opening portion 440a and can be non-engaged with first locking member edge 446a, (iii) second hook connector 350b can be disposed in second opening portion 440b and can be non-engaged with second locking member edge 446b, (iv) tab 340 can be disposed in third opening portion 440c and can be non-engaged with latch 430 and / or latch recess 432, and / or (v) hook member 330 can be non-engaged with locking member 400. Therefore, when the locking member 400 is in the removed position, the locking member 400 can be connected to and / or disconnected from the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the second cover 320). Before the second housing unit 300 is disposed on and / or connected to the first housing unit 200, the locking member 400 can be connected to and / or disconnected from the second housing unit 300, which can facilitate the assembly of the electrical assembly 100. Additionally and / or alternatively, after the second housing unit 300 is disposed on and / or connected to the first housing unit 200, the locking member 400 can be connected to and / or disconnected from the second housing unit 300. In some examples, when the locking member 400 is in the removed position, the locking member 400 can substantially restrict, block, and / or prevent the second housing unit 300 from being disposed in the receiving portion 240 and / or connected to the first housing unit 200 (e.g., by one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d being misaligned with the corresponding recesses 264a-264d, contacting the corresponding guide portions 260a-260d, and / or contacting the corresponding protrusions 266a-266d). When in the removed position, the locking member 400 can also substantially restrict, block, and / or prevent the second housing unit 300 from being removed from the receiving portion 240 and / or disconnected from the first housing unit 200 (e.g., by one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d being misaligned with the corresponding recesses 264a-264d, contacting the corresponding guide portions 260a-260d, and / or contacting the corresponding protrusions 266a-266d).

[0070] For example, in the embodiments, Figures 8-10CAs roughly illustrated, locking member 400 can be moved (e.g., adjusted, rotated, pivoted, slid, etc.) to the unlocked position. When locking member 400 is in the unlocked position, (i) connector 360 can be disposed in the first slot portion 416a, which can restrict and / or prevent connector 360 from being removed from slot 416; (ii) first hook connector 350a can be disposed in the first opening portion 440a and can engage the first locking member edge 446a; (iii) second hook connector 350b can be disposed in the second opening portion 440b and can engage the second locking member edge 446b; (iv) tab 340 can be disposed in the third opening portion 440c and can not engage latch 430; (v) hook member 330 can not engage locking member 400; and / or (vi) one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d (e.g.) For example, all locking member flanges 410a-410d can be positioned relative to the second housing unit 300 and / or the first electrical connector 308 such that (a) when the first electrical connector 308 is inserted into the electrical connector hole 230 of the first housing unit 200, the locking member flanges 410a-410d can be inserted through notches 264a-264d into the grooves 262a-262d of the corresponding guide portions 260a-260d of the first housing unit 200, and / or (b) when the first electrical connector 308 is removed from the electrical connector hole 230, the locking member flanges 410a-410d can be removed from the grooves 262a-262d of the corresponding guide portions 260a-260d (via notches 264a-264d). Therefore, when the locking member 400 is in the unlocked position, the locking member 400 can be connected to the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the second cover 320) and / or mounted on the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the second cover 320), but may not engage with and / or connect to the first housing unit 200.

[0071] For example, in the embodiments, Figure 1A and Figures 11A-11CAs roughly illustrated, locking member 400 can be moved (e.g., adjusted, rotated, pivoted, slid, etc.) to a locked position. When locking member 400 is in the locked position, (i) connector 360 can be disposed in the second slot portion 416b of slot 416, which can restrict and / or prevent connector 360 from being removed from slot 416, (ii) first hook connector 350a can be disposed in the first opening portion 440a and may not engage the first locking member edge 446a, (iii) second hook connector 350b can be disposed in the second opening portion 440b and may not engage the second locking member edge 446b, (iv) tab 340 can engage latch 430 and / or can be disposed in latch recess 432, (v) hook member 330 can engage a portion of locking member 400 (e.g., the first end 400a of locking member 400), and / or (vi) one or Multiple locking member flanges 410a-410d (e.g., all locking member flanges 410a-410d) may (a) be disposed relative to the second housing unit 300 and / or the first electrical connector 308 such that the locking member flanges 410a-410d are disposed in the grooves 262a-262d of the respective guide portions 260a-260d of the first housing unit 200, and / or (b) engage with the protrusions 266a-266d of the respective guide portions 260a-260d (e.g., the first surface portions 270a-270d and / or the second surface portions 272a-272d), which may restrict and / or prevent the locking member flanges 410a-410d from being removed from the grooves 262a-262d (e.g., via notches 264a-264d). Therefore, when the locking member 400 is in the locked position, the locking member 400 can be connected to, engaged with, and / or mounted on the first housing unit 200 (e.g., the first cover 220) and / or the second housing unit 300 (e.g., the second cover 320). Furthermore, the second housing unit 300 can be pressed and / or clamped between the locking member 400 (e.g., the main portion of the locking member 400) and / or the first housing unit 200 (e.g., the first cover 220) generally in the Z direction, which can connect, fasten, lock, and / or secure the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200 to restrict and / or prevent the second housing unit 300 from being removed from the first housing unit 200.

[0072] An embodiment of the method for assembling at least a portion of electrical component 100 is generally described in Figures 6-11C The diagram shows that the method may include connecting the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300, as approximately in... Figures 6-8 As illustrated in the diagram. Optionally, the method may include connecting the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200 after connecting the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300, as approximately in... Figures 9-11CAs illustrated in the diagram. Alternatively, the method may include connecting the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300 (see, for example, Figure 1B The second housing unit 300 is connected to the first housing unit 200 beforehand. Embodiments of the method for removing at least a portion of the electrical assembly 100 may include (e.g., by actuating and / or deflecting the latch 430) disengaging the latch 430 from the tab 340 and / or performing one or more of the steps described below, such as performing one or more of the steps in opposite directions and / or performing one or more of the steps in reverse order.

[0073] For an embodiment, connecting the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300 and / or the second cover 320 may include (e.g., generally in the Z direction) aligning the connector 360 with the expansion slot portion 416c, the first hook connector 350a with the first opening portion 440a, the second hook connector 350b with the second opening portion 440b, and / or the tab 340 with the third opening portion 440c (see, for example, Figure 6 Once aligned, the locking member 400 can then be adjusted and / or moved onto the second housing unit 300 (e.g., approximately in the Z direction) such that the locking member 400 is positioned in the removed position (see, for example, Figure 7 Adjusting and / or moving the locking member 400 onto the second housing unit 300 may include inserting the connector 360 into the expansion slot portion 416c, inserting the first hook connector 350a into the first opening portion 440a, inserting the second hook connector 350b into the second opening portion 440b, and / or inserting the tab 340 into the third opening portion 440c. The locking member 400 can then be removed from its removed position (see, for example, Figure 7 Move and / or adjust (e.g., generally in the X direction) toward and / or to the unlock position (see, for example, Figure 8 For example, by sliding, rotating, pivoting, etc. Moving and / or adjusting the locking member 400 from the removal position to the orientation and / or into the unlock position may include sliding the connector 360 in the slot 416 from the extension slot portion 416c to the first slot portion 416a, engaging the first hook connector 350a with the first locking member edge 446a, and / or engaging the second hook connector 350b with the second locking member edge 446b, which may connect the locking member 400 to the second housing unit 300 and / or restrict the removal of the locking member 400 from the second housing unit 300.

[0074] For example, in the embodiments described in general Figure 9Connecting the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200 may include inserting a portion of the first end 300a of the second housing unit 300 (e.g., generally along the X direction) into the receiving portion 240 and / or the opening 246 of the first housing unit 200, and subsequently adjusting, moving, rotating, pivoting, etc. (e.g., generally along the Z direction) the second end 300b of the second housing unit 300 into the receiving portion 240. Adjusting and / or moving the second end 300b of the second housing unit 300 into the receiving portion 240 may include engaging and / or inserting the first electrical connector 308 into the electrical connector hole 230. This may include engaging and / or contacting one or more first electrical contacts 202a with one or more second electrical contacts 302a to establish an electrical connection between the first housing unit 200 and / or the second housing unit 300 (e.g., see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 10D Additionally and / or alternatively, adjusting and / or moving the second end portion 300b of the second housing unit 300 into the receiving portion 240 may include (e.g., generally in the Z direction) inserting the first locking member flange 410a through the first notch 264a into the first groove 262a of the first guide portion 260a, inserting the second locking member flange 410b through the second notch 264b into the second groove 262b of the second guide portion 260b, inserting the third locking member flange 410c through the third notch 264c into the third groove 262c of the third guide portion 260c, and / or inserting the fourth locking member flange 410d through the fourth notch 264d into the fourth groove 262d of the fourth guide portion 260d, reaching approximately... Figures 10A-10C The location shown in the diagram.

[0075] In the embodiment, the locking member 400 can then be released from the unlocked position (see, for example, Figures 10A-10C Move to the locked position (for example, see...) Figures 11A-11CThis allows the locking member 400 to be connected to the first housing unit 200, which in turn allows the second housing unit 300 to be fastened, locked, and / or secured to the first housing unit 200 via the locking member 400, thereby limiting and / or preventing the second housing unit 300 from being removed from the first housing unit 200. Adjusting the locking member 400 from the unlocked position to the locked position may include adjusting and / or sliding (e.g., generally in the X direction) a first locking member flange 410a passing through a first groove 262a to engage a first protrusion 266a, adjusting and / or sliding (e.g., generally in the X direction) a second locking member flange 410b passing through a second groove 262b to engage a second protrusion 266b, adjusting and / or sliding (e.g., generally in the X direction) a third locking member flange 410c passing through a third groove 262c to engage a third protrusion 266c, and / or adjusting and / or sliding (e.g., generally in the X direction) a fourth locking member flange 410d passing through a fourth groove 262d to engage a fourth protrusion 266d. This can connect the locking member 400 and / or the second housing unit 300 to the first housing unit 200. Adjusting the locking member flanges 410a-410d through the grooves 262a-262d may engage, contact, and / or slide the locking member flanges 410a-410d (e.g., generally in the X direction) along the first surface portions 270a-270d of the protrusions 266a-266d to engage the second surface portions 272a-272d. This may adjust and / or move at least a portion of the locking member 400 toward the first housing unit 200 (e.g., generally in the Z direction) and / or push the second housing unit 300 toward and / or abut against the first housing unit 200, which may ensure a tight and secure connection between the first housing unit 200 and the second housing unit 300. Additionally and / or alternatively, adjusting the locking member 400 from the unlocked position to the locked position may include sliding the connector 360 within the slot 416 from the first slot portion 416a to the second slot portion 416b, adjusting the first hook connector 350a within the first opening portion 440a to disengage the first hook connector 350a from the edge 446a of the first locking member, adjusting the second hook connector 350b within the second opening portion 440b to disengage the second hook connector 350b from the edge 446b of the second locking member, engaging at least a portion of the locking member 400 (e.g., the first end 400a) with the hook member 330, and / or engaging the latch 430 with the tab 340.Engaging the latch 430 with the tab 340 may include deflecting the latch 430 away from the second housing unit 300 by sliding the latch 430 along the inclined surface 344 of the tab 340, inserting the tab 340 into the latch recess 432 of the latch 430, and / or engaging / contacting the stop surface 342 of the tab 340 with the latch 430. This may limit and / or prevent the locking member 400 from adjusting out of the locked position and / or moving out of the locked position (e.g., toward the removed position and / or the unlocked position).

[0076] While embodiments are generally illustrated as follows: the first housing unit 200 includes one or more guide portions 258a, 258b, and the locking member 400 includes one or more locking member flanges 410a-410d, embodiments may also include opposite constructions or combinations / hybrids of guide portion / flange constructions. Similarly, while embodiments are generally illustrated as follows: the second housing unit 300 includes one or more connectors 360, tabs 340, hook members 330, and / or hook connectors 350a, 350b, and the locking member 400 includes one or more slots 416, openings 440, latches 430, and / or edges 446a, 446b, embodiments may also include opposite constructions or combinations / hybrids of connector / slot, tab / latch, and / or hook / edge constructions.

[0077] This document describes various examples / implementations for use in various devices, systems, and / or methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples / implementations described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the examples / implementations can be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the examples / implementations described in this specification. Those skilled in the art will understand that the examples / implementations described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and therefore it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0078] Throughout this specification, references to “example,” “in an example,” “according to an example,” “various embodiments,” “according to an embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or “embodiment,” etc., indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example / embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the appearance of the phrases “example,” “in an example,” “according to an example,” “in various embodiments,” “according to an embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or “embodiment,” etc., in multiple places throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples / embodiments. Therefore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment / example may be combined, in whole or in part, without limitation, with features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples, provided that such combination is not illogical or ineffective. Moreover, numerous modifications may be made to adapt particular circumstances or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0079] It should be understood that references to a single element are not necessarily limited in this way, but may include one or more such elements. Any directional references (e.g., positive, negative, upper, lower, up, down, left, right, to the left, to the right, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are used only for identification purposes to aid the reader in understanding this disclosure and do not create any limitation, particularly regarding the location, orientation, or use of the examples / embodiments.

[0080] References to engagement (e.g., attachment, connection, link, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between connected components, relative movement between components, direct connection, indirect connection, fixed connection, movable connection, operative connection, indirect contact, and / or direct contact. Therefore, a reference to engagement does not necessarily mean that two components are directly connected / linked and fixed to each other. Connections of electrical components (if any) may include mechanical connections, electrical connections, wired connections, and / or wireless connections, etc. The use of “e.g.” and “such as” in this specification should be interpreted broadly and used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited to such examples. The use of “and” and “or” should be interpreted broadly (e.g., considered as “and / or”). For example and without limitation, the use of “and” does not necessarily require all elements or features to be listed, and the use of “or” is inclusive unless such a construction would be illogical.

[0081] While this document may describe processes, systems, and methods in combination with one or more steps in a particular sequence, it should be understood that these methods can be practiced by steps in different orders, by steps performed simultaneously, by additional steps, and / or by omissions of certain steps.

[0082] Everything contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive. Changes may be made in detail or structure without departing from this disclosure.

Claims

1. An electrical component, comprising: The first housing unit includes a guide portion; A second housing unit that can be releasably connected to the first housing unit; and A locking member, configured to slidably engage the guide portion; The locking member can be adjusted to an unlocked position and a locked position relative to the first housing unit and the second housing unit; When the locking member is in the unlocked position, the second housing unit can be removed from the first housing unit; When the locking member is in the locked position, the second housing unit is fastened to the first housing unit via the locking member; and The second housing unit includes a hook connector configured to engage the locking member, and when the locking member is in the unlocked position, the hook connector engages the locking member and connects the locking member to the second housing unit.

2. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein, The locking member is removably and slidably connected to the second housing unit.

3. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The locking member can be adjusted to a removed position; and When the locking member is in the removed position, the locking member can be removed from the second housing unit.

4. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The guide portion includes a groove configured to receive a flange of the locking member; and When the locking member is in the locked position, the flange engages with the groove and connects the locking member and the second housing unit to the first housing unit.

5. The electrical component according to claim 4, wherein: The guide portion includes a guide surface that at least partially defines the groove; and The guide surface includes a first surface portion that is inclined toward the interior space of the first housing unit, such that when the locking member is adjusted toward the locking position, the locking member (i) contacts the first surface portion, (ii) moves toward the interior space of the first housing unit, and (iii) presses the second housing unit against the first housing unit.

6. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The locking component includes a groove; The second housing unit includes a connector protruding from the second housing unit, the connector being at least partially disposed in the slot; When the locking member is adjusted toward the unlocked position, the connector slides along the first end of the groove toward the groove; and When the locking member is adjusted toward the locking position, the connector slides along the groove toward the second end of the groove, which is disposed opposite to the first end of the groove.

7. The electrical component according to claim 6, wherein: The connector includes a lateral protrusion; and The lateral protrusion of the connector is configured to engage with the locking member to restrict the removal of the connector from the slot and to connect the locking member to the second housing unit.

8. The electrical component according to claim 6, wherein: The locking member is removably and slidably connected to the second housing unit; The locking component can be adjusted to a removed position; The slot includes an extension portion, through which the connector can be inserted into and / or removed from the slot; and When the locking member is in the removed position, the connector is disposed in the extended portion of the slot, allowing the locking member to be removed from the second housing unit.

9. The electrical component according to claim 8, wherein: The connector includes a first lateral protrusion and a second lateral protrusion; The first lateral protrusion and the second lateral protrusion extend from the end of the connector in opposite directions; and The distance from the free end of the first lateral protrusion to the free end of the second lateral protrusion: The width is equal to or less than the width of the extended portion of the slot; and It is greater than the width of the groove outside the extended portion.

10. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The second housing unit includes a hook member configured to engage the locking member; and When the locking member is in the locked position, the hook member engages the locking member and connects the locking member to the second housing unit.

11. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The second housing unit includes tabs; The locking member includes a latch configured to engage the tab; and When the locking member is in the locked position, the latch engages the tab and restricts the adjustment of the locking member toward the unlocked position.

12. The electrical component of claim 11, wherein: The locking component includes a latch stop; and The latch stop is spaced apart from the latch and is configured to limit the deflection of the latch.

13. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The first housing unit includes (i) an opening configured to receive a portion of the second housing unit and (ii) an electrical connector receiving portion; The second housing unit includes an electrical connector; and The opening, the electrical connector receiving portion, and the electrical connector are configured such that a portion of the second housing unit can be inserted into the opening in a first direction, and subsequently, the second housing unit can be adjusted in a second direction different from the first direction to engage the electrical connector with the electrical connector receiving portion.

14. The electrical component according to claim 1, wherein: The second housing unit includes: Connector; spurs; and Hook component; The locking component includes: A slot configured to receive the connector; A flange, the flange being configured to slidably engage a groove in the guide portion; and A latch, configured to engage the tab; The connector is slidably disposed in the slot; When the locking member is in the unlocked position: The connector is disposed in the first slot portion of the groove; The hook connector engages with the locking member; and The locking member is connected to the second housing unit via the connector and the hook connector; When the locking member is in the locked position: The flange engages with the groove and connects the locking member to the first housing unit; The connector is disposed in the second slot portion of the groove; The latch engages with the tab and resists adjustment of the locking member toward the unlocked position; and The hook component engages with the locking component.

15. The electrical component of claim 14, wherein: The locking member is removably and slidably connected to the second housing unit; The locking component can be adjusted to a removed position; The slot includes an expansion slot portion, through which the connector can be inserted into and / or removed from the slot; The extended slot portion of the slot is disposed between the first slot portion and the second slot portion; and When the locking member is in the removed position, the connector is disposed in the expansion slot portion, allowing the locking member to be removed from the second housing unit.

16. A method of assembling an electrical component according to claim 1, the method comprising: The first housing unit and the second housing unit can be releasably connected; and The first housing unit and the second housing unit are prevented from disconnecting by adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position; Adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position includes engaging the locking member with the guide portion of the first housing unit.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein: Engaging the locking member with the guide portion includes inserting the flange of the locking member into a groove in the guide portion, wherein the groove is at least partially defined by a guide surface of the guide portion having a first surface portion and a second surface portion, and the first surface portion is inclined toward the interior space of the first housing unit; and Adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position includes moving the second housing unit toward the first housing unit by sliding the flange along the first surface portion toward the second surface portion.

18. The method of claim 16, comprising: Before connecting the first housing unit and the second housing unit, the locking member is positioned in the removed position on the second housing unit; and The locking member is releasably connected to the second housing unit by adjusting the locking member from the removed position to the unlocked position; When the locking member is positioned at the removal position, the locking member can be positioned on the second housing unit and can be removed from the second housing unit.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein: Adjusting the locking member from the removed position to the unlocked position includes engaging the locking member with the hook connector of the second housing unit; and Adjusting the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position includes: Disengage the locking member from the hook connector; and Engage the locking member with the hook member of the second housing unit.

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