Adapter terminal, connector, and connector assembly

Abstract

The application discloses a switching terminal, which comprises a fixed part, a first connecting part and a second connecting part, the first connecting part is connected with the fixed part, the first connecting part is configured to be inserted with a conductive terminal of a connector, the first connecting part comprises a first base and a first elastic sheet part which is partially protruded from the first base; the second connecting part is connected with the fixed part, the second connecting part is configured to be inserted with a conductive terminal of a connecting connector, the second connecting part comprises a second base and a second elastic sheet part which is partially protruded from the second base. The switching terminal has simple structure and low cost. In addition, the application further discloses a connector and a connector assembly, the connector comprises the switching terminal and a first conductive terminal; the connector assembly comprises the connector and a connecting connector, the connecting connector comprises a second conductive terminal, and the whole structure is simple and convenient to use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an adapter terminal, a connector, and a connector assembly, belonging to the field of connector technology. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, high-current connectors often use three or more components, such as male terminals, adapter springs, and female terminals, to achieve the connection function. The assembly of multiple components is relatively complex, and the structure of the components themselves is also complex, resulting in high manufacturing costs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide an adapter terminal, connector, and connector assembly that are simple in structure, easy to use, and low in cost.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: an adapter terminal, comprising a fixing portion; a first mating portion connected to the fixing portion, the first mating portion being configured to mate with a conductive terminal of a connector, the first mating portion comprising a first base and a first spring portion at least partially protruding from the first base; and a second mating portion connected to the fixing portion, the second mating portion being configured to mate with a conductive terminal of a mating connector, the second mating portion comprising a second base and a second spring portion at least partially protruding from the second base.

[0005] As a further improvement of the adapter terminal in this invention, the second spring portion includes an abutment portion, a first guide portion, and a second guide portion; the first guide portion and the second guide portion extend smoothly from the abutment portion to the second base portion along different mating directions.

[0006] As a further improved technical solution of the adapter terminal in this invention, the second base includes a third substrate and a fourth substrate; the third substrate is connected to one end of the fixing part along a second direction; the fourth substrate is connected to the one end of the fixing part along the second direction, and the third substrate and the fourth substrate are arranged side by side along a first direction; the second spring portion includes a fifth spring and a sixth spring; the abutment portion includes a first abutment portion and a second abutment portion; the fifth spring is connected to the third substrate, the fifth spring includes the first abutment portion, and the first abutment portion protrudes from the third substrate along the first direction and in a direction away from the fourth substrate; the sixth spring is connected to the fourth substrate, the sixth spring includes the second abutment portion, and the second abutment portion protrudes from the fourth substrate along the first direction and in a direction away from the third substrate; the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0007] As a further improvement to the adapter terminal of the present invention, the first guide portion includes a first guide segment and a second guide segment; the second guide portion includes a first guide piece and a second guide piece; the fifth spring extends along the second direction, the fifth spring includes the first guide segment, and along the second direction, the first guide segment is located on one or both sides of the first abutment portion; along a third direction, the first guide piece is connected to the side of the first abutment portion near the third substrate; the sixth spring extends along the second direction, the sixth spring includes the second guide segment, and along the second direction, the second guide segment is located on one or both sides of the second abutment portion; along the third direction, the second guide piece is connected to the side of the second abutment portion near the fourth substrate; the third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0008] As a further improvement of the adapter terminal in this invention, the first abutting portion and the first guide segment extend along the first arcuate surface; the second abutting portion and the second guide segment extend along the second arcuate surface.

[0009] As a further improvement to the adapter terminal in this invention, the second spring portion further includes a seventh spring and an eighth spring; the seventh spring extends from the third substrate along the second direction, and the extension direction of the seventh spring is opposite to the extension direction of the fifth spring; along the third direction, the seventh spring and the fifth spring at least partially overlap, and the portion of the seventh spring protruding from the third substrate extends along the first arcuate surface; the eighth spring extends from the fourth substrate along the second direction, and the extension direction of the eighth spring is opposite to the extension direction of the sixth spring; along the third direction, the eighth spring and the sixth spring at least partially overlap, and the portion of the sixth spring protruding from the fourth substrate extends along the second arcuate surface.

[0010] As a further improvement to the adapter terminal of the present invention, the first base includes a first substrate and a second substrate; the first substrate is connected to the other end of the fixing part along the second direction; the second substrate is connected to the other end of the fixing part along the second direction, and the first substrate and the second substrate are arranged side by side along the first direction; the first spring portion includes a first spring and a second spring; the first spring is connected to the first substrate, the first spring includes a first elastic contact portion, the first elastic contact portion extends along a third arcuate surface, and the first elastic contact portion protrudes from the first substrate along the first direction and in a direction away from the second substrate; the second spring is connected to the second substrate, the second spring includes a second elastic contact portion, the second elastic contact portion extends along a fourth arcuate surface, and the second elastic contact portion protrudes from the second substrate along the first direction and in a direction away from the first substrate.

[0011] As a further improvement to the adapter terminal in this invention, the first spring contact portion further includes a third spring contact and a fourth spring contact; the third spring contact extends from the first substrate along the second direction, and the extension direction of the third spring contact is opposite to the extension direction of the first spring contact; along the third direction, the third spring contact and the first spring contact at least partially overlap, and the portion of the third spring contact protruding from the first substrate extends along the third arcuate surface; the fourth spring contact extends from the second substrate along the second direction, and the extension direction of the fourth spring contact is opposite to the extension direction of the second spring contact; along the third direction, the fourth spring contact and the second spring contact at least partially overlap, and the portion of the second spring contact protruding from the second substrate extends along the fourth arcuate surface.

[0012] As a further improvement to the adapter terminal in this invention, the fixing part includes a first fixing wall, a second fixing wall opposite to the first fixing wall, a first connecting wall connecting one end of the first fixing wall and one end of the second fixing wall, and a second connecting wall connecting the other end of the first fixing wall and the other end of the second fixing wall; along the second direction, one end of the first fixing wall is connected to the first substrate, and the other end of the first fixing wall is connected to the third substrate; one end of the second fixing wall is connected to the second substrate, and the other end of the second fixing wall is connected to the fourth substrate; along the first direction, the first fixing wall and the second fixing wall are at least partially separated by a certain distance.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention discloses a connector comprising a first conductive terminal and an adapter terminal that mates with the first conductive terminal; the adapter terminal is the adapter terminal disclosed in the present invention.

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention also discloses a connector assembly comprising the connector and a mating connector; the mating connector includes a second conductive terminal that mates with the adapter terminal of the connector.

[0015] Compared to existing technologies, the adapter terminal disclosed in this invention includes a fixing part, a first mating part, and a second mating part; the connector includes the adapter terminal and a first conductive terminal; and the mating connector includes a second conductive terminal. The first mating part can be inserted into the first conductive terminal in the connector, and the second mating part can be inserted into the second conductive terminal in the mating connector, thereby realizing the connection of the two connectors. Furthermore, the mating portions (first mating portion and second mating portion) of the adapter terminal mainly include a base and a spring-loaded portion protruding from the base to achieve abutment connection. The overall structure of the adapter terminal, connector, and connector assembly is simple, easy to operate, and has a low cost. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first conductive terminal, the adapter terminal, and the second conductive terminal (with related cables shown) in a first embodiment of the connector assembly of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial diagram of the explosion.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top view of the intermediate connection terminal.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged schematic diagram of the second docking part.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of an adapter terminal at one angle.

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Enlarged schematic diagram of the second docking part.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Front view of the intermediate connection terminal.

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first conductive terminal from another angle.

[0024] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 Rear view of the second conductive terminal.

[0025] Figure 10 yes Figure 2A schematic diagram of the structure of the second conductive terminal from another angle.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first conductive terminal, the adapter terminal, and the second conductive terminal (with related cables shown) in a second embodiment of the connector assembly of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first conductive terminal, the adapter terminal, and the second conductive terminal (with related cables shown) in a third embodiment of the connector assembly of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. If several embodiments exist, features in these embodiments may be combined with each other without conflict. When the description refers to the drawings, unless otherwise stated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The descriptions in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention; rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses, products, and / or methods consistent with some aspects of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0029] The terminology used in this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. The singular forms “a,” “the,” or “the” as used in the specification and claims of this invention are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," and similar words used in the specification and claims of this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish features. Similarly, the terms "an" or "a" do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. Unless otherwise stated, the terms "before," "after," "upper," "lower," and similar words appearing in this invention are for ease of explanation only and are not limited to a specific location or spatial orientation. The terms "comprising" or "including" are an open-ended expression, meaning that the element preceding "comprising" or "including" encompasses the element following "comprising" or "including" and its equivalents, but this does not preclude the element preceding "comprising" or "including" from also including other elements. In this invention, the term "several" means two or more.

[0031] In the attached diagram, the first direction A1-A1, the second direction A2-A2, and the third direction A3-A3 are perpendicular to each other.

[0032] This invention discloses a connector assembly. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the first conductive terminal 2, the adapter terminal 1, and the second conductive terminal 3 (and related cable 4) is shown in a first embodiment of the connector assembly.

[0033] The connector assembly includes a connector and a mating connector. The connector includes an adapter terminal 1 and a first conductive terminal 2. The mating connector includes a second conductive terminal 3. The adapter terminal 1 and the first conductive terminal 2 are inserted into each other, and the second conductive terminal 3 and the adapter terminal 1 are inserted into each other to achieve mating between the connector and the mating connector. Other structural diagrams of the connector and the mating connector are not shown.

[0034] See Figure 2 The adapter terminal 1 includes a first mating portion 11, a fixing portion 12, and a second mating portion 13. Along the second direction A2-A2, the first mating portion 11 is connected to one end of the fixing portion 12, and the second mating portion 13 is connected to the other end of the fixing portion 12.

[0035] The first mating portion 11 includes a first base 111 and a first spring contact portion 112. The first spring contact portion 112 is configured to at least partially protrude from the first base 111. When the adapter terminal 1 mates with the second conductive terminal 3, the first spring contact portion 112 will abut against the second conductive terminal 3 to establish communication.

[0036] The first base 111 includes a first substrate 1111 and a second substrate 1112 arranged side by side along a first direction A1-A1. Along the second direction A2-A2, both the first substrate 1111 and the second substrate 1112 are connected to one end of the fixing part 12.

[0037] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first spring piece 112 includes a first spring piece 1121.

[0038] See Figure 3 The first spring piece 1121 extends from the first substrate 1111 along the second direction A2-A2. The first spring piece 1121 includes a first elastic contact portion 1121a. The first elastic contact portion 1121a protrudes from the first substrate 1111 along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the second substrate 1112.

[0039] See Figure 7 The first elastic contact portion 1121a extends along the third arcuate surface γ.

[0040] See Figure 3The first substrate 1111 includes a first frame member 1111a. The first frame member 1111a includes a first wall portion 1111a1, a second wall portion 1111a2 opposite to the first wall portion 1111a1, a third wall portion 1111a3 connecting one end of the first wall portion 1111a1 and one end of the second wall portion 1111a2, and a fourth wall portion 1111a4 connecting the other end of the first wall portion 1111a1 and the other end of the second wall portion 1111a2.

[0041] The second wall portion 1111a2 is located at the distal end of the adapter terminal 1. In other words, the second wall portion 1111a2 is located at the end of the first substrate 1111 that is away from the fixing portion 12.

[0042] The first spring piece 1121 extends from the first wall portion 1111a1 to the second wall portion 1111a2, and the end of the first spring piece 1121 near the second wall portion 1111a2 is a free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the second conductive terminal 3), the free end of the first spring piece 1121 can move along the first direction A1-A1 within the first frame member 1111a due to pressure.

[0043] See Figure 3 The first spring piece 112 also includes a third spring piece 1123.

[0044] The third spring piece 1123 is located within the first frame member 1111a. The third spring piece 1123 extends from the first substrate 1111 along the second direction A2-A2, and the extension direction of the third spring piece 1123 is opposite to the extension direction of the first spring piece 1121. Along the third direction A3-A3, the third spring piece 1123 and the first spring piece 1121 at least partially overlap.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, there are two first spring clips 1121. A first clearance space S1 exists between the two first spring clips 1121 along the third direction A3-A3. Viewed from one end of the first direction A1-A1, the first clearance space S1 is approximately V-shaped. The third spring clip 1123 extends into the first clearance space S1; correspondingly, the third spring clip 1123 includes a first inclined edge 1123b and a second inclined edge 1123c.

[0046] The third spring piece 1123 extends from the second wall portion 1111a2 toward the first wall portion 1111a1. The end of the third spring piece 1123 near the first wall portion 1111a1 is its free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the second conductive terminal 3), the free end of the third spring piece 1123 can move along the first direction A1-A1 within the first frame member 1111a due to pressure.

[0047] The third spring 1123 includes a third elastic contact portion 1123a. The third elastic contact portion 1123a extends out of the first substrate 1111 along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the second substrate 1112.

[0048] See Figure 7 The third elastic contact portion 1123a also extends along the third arcuate surface γ.

[0049] The first spring 1121 and the third spring 1123 are arranged in an alternating manner facing each other and have the same curvature, which allows them to protect each other and reduce the possibility of deformation of the first spring 1121 and the third spring 1123 during transportation or use.

[0050] See Figure 5 The first spring piece 112 further includes a second spring piece 1122. The second spring piece 1122 extends from the second substrate 1112 along the second direction A2-A2. The second spring piece 1122 includes a second elastic contact portion 1122a. The second elastic contact portion 1122a protrudes from the second substrate 1112 along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the first substrate 1111.

[0051] See Figure 7 The second elastic contact portion 1122a extends along the fourth arcuate surface δ.

[0052] See Figure 5 The second substrate 1112 includes a second frame member 1112a. The second frame member 1112a includes a fifth wall portion 1112a1, a sixth wall portion 1112a2 opposite to the fifth wall portion 1112a1, a seventh wall portion 1112a3 connecting one end of the fifth wall portion 1112a1 and one end of the sixth wall portion 1112a2, and an eighth wall portion 1112a4 connecting the other end of the fifth wall portion 1112a1 and the other end of the sixth wall portion 1112a2.

[0053] The sixth wall portion 1112a2 is located at the distal end of the adapter terminal 1. In other words, the sixth wall portion 1112a2 is located at the end of the second substrate 1112 that is away from the fixing portion 12.

[0054] The second spring piece 1122 extends from the fifth wall portion 1112a1 to the sixth wall portion 1112a2, and the end of the second spring piece 1122 near the sixth wall portion 1112a2 is its free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the second conductive terminal 3), the free end of the second spring piece 1122 can move along the first direction A1-A1 within the second frame member 1112a due to pressure.

[0055] The first spring section 112 also includes a fourth spring section 1124.

[0056] The fourth spring 1124 is located within the second frame member 1112a. The fourth spring 1124 extends from the second substrate 1112 along the second direction A2-A2, and the extending direction of the fourth spring 1124 is opposite to the extending direction of the second spring 1122.

[0057] Along the third direction A3-A3, the fourth spring 1124 and the second spring 1122 at least partially overlap.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, there are two second spring clips 1122. A second clearance space S2 exists between the two second spring clips 1122 along the third direction A3-A3. Viewed from one end of the first direction A1-A1, the second clearance space S2 is approximately V-shaped. The fourth spring clip 1124 extends into the second clearance space S2; correspondingly, the fourth spring clip 1124 includes a third inclined edge 1124b and a fourth inclined edge 1124c.

[0059] The fourth spring piece 1124 extends from the sixth wall portion 1112a2 toward the fifth wall portion 1112a1. The end of the fourth spring piece 1124 near the fifth wall portion 1112a1 is its free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the second conductive terminal 3), the free end of the fourth spring piece 1124 can move along the first direction A1-A1 within the second frame member 1112a due to pressure.

[0060] The fourth elastic contact 1124 includes a fourth elastic contact portion 1124a. The fourth elastic contact portion 1124a extends along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the first substrate 1111 and protrudes from the second substrate 1112.

[0061] See Figure 7 The fourth elastic contact portion 1124a also extends along the fourth arcuate surface δ.

[0062] The second spring 1122 and the fourth spring 1124 are arranged in an alternating manner facing each other and have the same curvature, which allows them to protect each other and reduce the possibility of deformation during transportation or use.

[0063] See Figure 2 The second mating portion 13 includes a second base 131 and a second spring portion 132. The second spring portion 132 is configured to at least partially protrude from the second base 131. When the adapter terminal 1 mates with the first conductive terminal 2, the second spring portion 132 abuts against the first conductive terminal 2 to establish communication.

[0064] See Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 The second base 131 includes a third substrate 1311 and a fourth substrate 1312 arranged side by side along the first direction A1-A1. Along the second direction A2-A2, both the third substrate 1311 and the fourth substrate 1312 are connected to the other end of the fixing part 12.

[0065] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second spring section 132 includes a fifth spring section 1321.

[0066] The fifth spring 1321 extends from the third substrate 1311 along the second direction A2-A2. The fifth spring 1321 includes a fifth elastic contact portion 1321a. The fifth elastic contact portion 1321a protrudes from the third substrate 1311 along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the fourth substrate 1312.

[0067] See Figure 7 The fifth elastic contact portion 1321a extends along the first arcuate surface α.

[0068] Further, see Figure 4 The fifth elastic contact portion 1321a includes a first abutting portion 1321a1 and a first guide segment 1321a2.

[0069] The first contact portion 1321a1 is configured to contact a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2).

[0070] Along the second direction A2-A2, the first guide segment 1321a2 is located on one or both sides of the first abutment portion 1321a1. When the first guide segment 1321a2 is located on one side of the first abutment portion 1321a1, the first guide segment 1321a2 is located on the side of the first abutment portion 1321a1 closer to the distal end of the adapter terminal 1.

[0071] The first guide segment 1321a2 extends smoothly along the first arc-shaped surface α from the first abutting portion 1321a1 to the third substrate 1311.

[0072] The second spring portion 132 also includes a first guide piece 1321a3. Along the third direction A3-A3, the first guide piece 1321a3 is located on the side of the fifth elastic contact portion 1321a near the third substrate 1311.

[0073] The first guide piece 1321a3 extends smoothly from the first abutment portion 1321a1 to the third substrate 1311 along an arc-shaped or spherical surface.

[0074] See Figure 3 The third substrate 1311 includes a third frame member 1311a. The third frame member 1311a includes a ninth wall portion 1311a1, a tenth wall portion 1311a2 opposite to the ninth wall portion 1311a1, an eleventh wall portion 1311a3 connecting one end of the ninth wall portion 1311a1 and one end of the tenth wall portion 1311a2, and a twelfth wall portion 1311a4 connecting the other end of the ninth wall portion 1311a1 and the other end of the tenth wall portion 1311a2.

[0075] The tenth wall portion 1311a2 is located at the distal end of the adapter terminal 1. In other words, the tenth wall portion 1311a2 is located at the end of the third substrate 1311 that is away from the fixing portion 12.

[0076] The fifth spring 1321 extends from the ninth wall portion 1311a1 to the tenth wall portion 1311a2, and the end of the fifth spring 1321 near the tenth wall portion 1311a2 is a free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2), the free end of the fifth spring 1321 can move along the first direction A1-A1 due to pressure within the third frame member 1311a.

[0077] See Figure 3 The second spring piece 132 further includes a seventh spring piece 1323. The seventh spring piece 1323 is located within the third frame member 1311a. The seventh spring piece 1323 extends from the third substrate 1311 along the second direction A2-A2, and the extension direction of the seventh spring piece 1323 is opposite to the extension direction of the fifth spring piece 1321. Along the third direction A3-A3, the seventh spring piece 1323 and the fifth spring piece 1321 at least partially overlap.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, there are two fifth spring pieces 1321. A third clearance space S3 exists between the two fifth spring pieces 1321 along the third direction A3-A3. Viewed from one end of the first direction A1-A1, the third clearance space S3 is approximately V-shaped. The seventh spring piece 1323 extends into the third clearance space S3, and correspondingly, the seventh spring piece 1323 includes a fifth inclined edge 1323b and a sixth inclined edge 1323c.

[0079] The seventh spring piece 1323 extends from the tenth wall portion 1311a2 toward the ninth wall portion 1311a1. The end of the seventh spring piece 1323 near the ninth wall portion 1311a1 is its free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2), the free end of the seventh spring piece 1323 can move along the first direction A1-A1 due to pressure within the third frame member 1311a.

[0080] The seventh spring 1323 includes a seventh elastic contact portion 1323a. The seventh elastic contact portion 1323a extends out of the third substrate 1311 along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the fourth substrate 1312.

[0081] See Figure 7 The seventh elastic contact portion 1323a extends along the first arcuate surface α.

[0082] See Figure 4 The seven elastic contact portions 1323a include a third abutting portion 1323a1 and a third guide segment 1323a2.

[0083] The third abutting portion 1323a1 is configured to abut against a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2).

[0084] Along the second direction A2-A2, the third guide segment 1323a2 is located on one or both sides of the third abutment portion 1323a1. When the third guide segment 1323a2 is located on one side of the third abutment portion 1323a1, the third guide segment 1323a2 is located on the side of the third abutment portion 1323a1 closer to the distal end of the adapter terminal 1.

[0085] The third guide segment 1323a2 extends smoothly along the first arcuate surface α from the third abutment portion 1323a1 to the third substrate 1311.

[0086] The fifth spring 1321 and the seventh spring 1323 are arranged in an alternating manner facing each other and have the same curvature, which allows them to protect each other and reduce the possibility of deformation of the fifth spring 1321 and the seventh spring 1323 during transportation or use.

[0087] See Figure 5 The second spring portion 132 further includes a sixth spring 1322. The sixth spring 1322 extends from the fourth substrate 1312 along the second direction A2-A2. The sixth spring 1322 includes a sixth elastic contact portion 1322a. The sixth elastic contact portion 1322a protrudes from the fourth substrate 1312 along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the third substrate 1311.

[0088] See Figure 7 The sixth elastic contact portion 1322a extends along the second arcuate surface β.

[0089] Further, see Figure 6 The sixth elastic contact portion 1322a includes a second abutting portion 1322a1 and a second guide segment 1322a2.

[0090] The second contact portion 1322a1 is configured to contact a mating conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2).

[0091] Along the second direction A2-A2, the second guide segment 1322a2 is located on one or both sides of the second abutment portion 1322a1. When the second guide segment 1322a2 is located on one side of the second abutment portion 1322a1, the second guide segment 1322a2 is located on the side of the second abutment portion 1322a1 closer to the distal end of the adapter terminal 1.

[0092] The second guide segment 1322a2 extends smoothly along the second arcuate surface β from the second abutment portion 1322a1 to the fourth substrate 1312.

[0093] The second spring portion 132 further includes a second guide piece 1322a3. Along the third direction A3-A3, the second guide piece 1322a3 is located on the side of the sixth elastic contact portion 1322a near the fourth substrate 1312. The second guide piece 1322a3 extends smoothly from the second abutment portion 1322a1 towards the fourth substrate 1312 along an arcuate or spherical surface.

[0094] See Figure 5The fourth substrate 1312 includes a fourth frame member 1312a. The fourth frame member 1312a includes a thirteenth wall portion 1312a1, a fourteenth wall portion 1312a2 opposite to the thirteenth wall portion 1312a1, a fifteenth wall portion 1312a3 connecting one end of the thirteenth wall portion 1312a1 and one end of the fourteenth wall portion 1312a2, and a sixteenth wall portion 1312a4 connecting the other end of the thirteenth wall portion 1312a1 and the other end of the fourteenth wall portion 1312a2.

[0095] The fourteenth wall portion 1312a2 is located at the distal end of the adapter terminal 1. In other words, the fourteenth wall portion 1312 is located at the end of the fourth substrate 1312 that is away from the fixing portion 12.

[0096] The sixth spring piece 1322 extends from the thirteenth wall portion 1312a1 to the fourteenth wall portion 1312a2, and the end of the sixth spring piece 1322 near the fourteenth wall portion 1312a2 is a free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2), the free end of the sixth spring piece 1322 can move along the first direction A1-A1 due to pressure within the fourth frame member 1312a.

[0097] See Figure 5 The second spring section 132 also includes an eighth spring section 1324.

[0098] The eighth spring 1324 is located within the fourth frame member 1312a. The eighth spring 1324 extends from the fourth substrate 1312 along the second direction A2-A2, and the extension direction of the eighth spring 1324 is opposite to the extension direction of the sixth spring 1322.

[0099] Along the third direction A3-A3, the eighth spring 1324 and the sixth spring 1322 at least partially overlap.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, there are two sixth spring pieces 1322. A fourth clearance space S4 exists between the two sixth spring pieces 1322 along the third direction A3-A3. Viewed from one end of the first direction A1-A1, the fourth clearance space S4 is approximately V-shaped. The eighth spring piece 1324 extends into the fourth clearance space S4, and correspondingly, the eighth spring piece 1324 includes a seventh inclined edge 1324b and an eighth inclined edge 1324c.

[0101] The eighth spring piece 1324 extends from the fourteenth wall portion 1312a2 to the thirteenth wall portion 1312a1. The end of the eighth spring piece 1324 near the thirteenth wall portion 1312a1 is its free end. When the adapter terminal 1 is connected to a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2), the free end of the eighth spring piece 1324 can move along the first direction A1-A1 due to pressure within the fourth frame member 1312a.

[0102] The eighth spring 1324 includes an eighth elastic contact portion 1324a. The eighth elastic contact portion 1324a extends along the first direction A1-A1 in a direction away from the third substrate 1311 and protrudes from the fourth substrate 1312.

[0103] See Figure 7 The eighth elastic contact portion 1324a extends along the second arcuate surface β.

[0104] See Figure 6 The eighth elastic contact portion 1324a includes a fourth abutting portion 1324a1 and a fourth guide segment 1324a2.

[0105] The fourth abutment portion 1324a1 is configured to abut against a conductive terminal (e.g., the first conductive terminal 2).

[0106] Along the second direction A2-A2, the fourth guide segment 1324a2 is located on one or both sides of the fourth abutment portion 1324a1. When the fourth guide segment 1324a2 is located on one side of the fourth abutment portion 1324a1, the fourth guide segment 1324a2 is located on the side of the fourth abutment portion 1324a1 closer to the distal end of the adapter terminal 1.

[0107] The fourth guide segment 1324a2 extends smoothly from the fourth abutment portion 1324a1 to the fourth substrate 1312 along the second arcuate surface β.

[0108] The sixth spring 1322 and the eighth spring 1324 are arranged in an alternating pattern facing each other, and have the same curvature, which allows them to protect each other and reduce the possibility of deformation during transportation or use.

[0109] See Figure 4 and Figure 6The first guide segment 1321a2, the second guide segment 1322a2, the third guide segment 1323a2, and the fourth guide segment 1324a2 constitute the first guide segment 1326 in the second docking portion 13. The first guide piece 1321a3 and the second guide piece 1322a3 constitute the second guide segment 1327 in the second docking portion 13. The first abutting portion 1321a1, the second abutting portion 1322a1, the third abutting portion 1323a1, and the fourth abutting portion 1324a1 constitute the abutting portion 1325 in the second docking portion 13.

[0110] The first elastic contact portion 1121a and the third elastic contact portion 1123a both extend along the third arcuate surface γ; the second elastic contact portion 1122a and the fourth elastic contact portion 1124a both extend along the fourth arcuate surface δ; the fifth elastic contact portion 1321a and the seventh elastic contact portion 1323a both extend along the first arcuate surface α; and the sixth elastic contact portion 1322a and the eighth elastic contact portion 1324a both extend along the second arcuate surface β. Compared to setting the elastic contact portion to extend along a spherical surface, the form of extending along an arcuate surface in the illustrated embodiment allows for a larger contact area with the conductive terminal (first conductive terminal 2 or second conductive terminal 3), making it more suitable for conducting large currents.

[0111] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 5 The fixing part 12 includes a first fixing wall 121, a second fixing wall 122 opposite to the first fixing wall 121, a first connecting wall 123 connecting one end of the first fixing wall 121 and one end of the second fixing wall 122, and a second connecting wall 124 connecting the other end of the first fixing wall 121 and the other end of the second fixing wall 122.

[0112] Along the second direction A2-A2, one end of the first fixing wall 121 is connected to the first substrate 1111, and the other end of the first fixing wall 121 is connected to the third substrate 1311; one end of the second fixing wall 122 is connected to the second substrate 1112, and the other end of the second fixing wall 122 is connected to the fourth substrate 1312.

[0113] Along the first direction A1-A1, the first fixing wall 121 and the second fixing wall 122 are separated by a certain distance. This makes the fixing part 12 more three-dimensional and easier to fix inside the connector (such as an insulating body fixed inside the connector).

[0114] In other words, see Figure 5Along the second direction A2-A2, the fixing part 12 includes a first end face 126 and a second end face 127 opposite to the first end face 126. The fixing part 12 also includes a through cavity 125. The through cavity 125 extends through the first end face 126 and the second end face 127 along the second direction A2-A2.

[0115] See Figure 3 The first fixed wall 121 includes a first positioning protrusion 1211. The first positioning protrusion 1211 protrudes from the first fixed wall 121 in a direction away from the second fixed wall 122; see also Figure 5 The second fixed wall 122 includes a second positioning protrusion 1221, which protrudes from the second fixed wall 122 in a direction away from the first fixed wall 121.

[0116] See Figure 7 There is a plane M between the third substrate 1311 and the fourth substrate 1312, and the adapter terminal 1 is symmetrical about the plane M.

[0117] The adapter terminal 1 described in this invention can be integrally formed by multiple stamping processes. The material of the adapter terminal 1 can be a copper alloy. See also... Figure 2 The adapter terminal 1 is connected to the second conductive terminal 3 via a flat first base 111 and a first spring contact portion 112 protruding outward from the first base 111; the adapter terminal 1 is connected to the first conductive terminal 2 via a flat second base 131 and a second spring contact portion 132 protruding outward from the second base 131, resulting in a simple structure. Furthermore, see [link to other documentation]. Figure 2 and Figure 7 The entire adapter terminal 1 can be roughly unfolded along plane M (see...). Figure 2 (The fixing part 12 unfolds along the serrated interlocking line A4). By unfolding the adapter terminal 1, those skilled in the art can easily understand the entire stamping process of the adapter terminal 1. The adapter terminal 1 only requires multiple stampings to obtain, which makes the manufacturing process of the adapter terminal 1 simple and the manufacturing cost low.

[0118] See Figure 2 and Figure 8 The first conductive terminal 2 includes a first plug portion 21 and a first connecting portion 22 connected to the first plug portion 21.

[0119] The first connector 21 includes a first abutting wall 211, a second abutting wall 212 opposite to the first abutting wall 211, a third connecting wall 213 connecting one end of the first abutting wall 211 and one end of the second abutting wall 212, and a fourth connecting wall 214 connecting the other end of the first abutting wall 211 and the other end of the second abutting wall 212.

[0120] See Figure 8 The first insertion portion 21 has a first mating end face 210 and a first mating space 215. The first mating space 215 extends through the first mating end face 210 along its extension direction (the third direction A3-A3 in the figure). The first abutting wall 211, the second abutting wall 212, the third connecting wall 213, and the fourth connecting wall 214 surround the first mating space 215.

[0121] The first insertion portion 21 also has a first clearance groove 216 and a second clearance groove 217. The first clearance groove 216 penetrates the third connecting wall 213 in a direction perpendicular to the third connecting wall 213, and extends along the third direction in the A3-A3 direction and penetrates the first mating end face 210. The second clearance groove 217 penetrates the fourth connecting wall 214 in a direction perpendicular to the fourth connecting wall 214, and extends along the third direction in the A3-A3 direction and penetrates the first mating end face 210.

[0122] In the illustrated embodiment, the first conductive terminal 2 is inserted into the adapter terminal 1 along the third direction A3-A3. The first clearance groove 216 and the second clearance groove 217 abut from the second base 131. After insertion, the first abutment wall 211 and the second abutment wall 212 are pressed against the outside of the second spring piece 132 to achieve electrical connection with the adapter terminal 1.

[0123] See Figure 2 and Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 21 further includes a first edge 2181, a second edge 2182, a third edge 2183, and a fourth edge 2184.

[0124] The first edge 2181 extends from one side of the first abutment wall 211 toward one side of the second abutment wall 212; correspondingly, the second edge 2182 extends from one side of the second abutment wall 212 toward one side of the first abutment wall 211. The third edge 2183 extends from the other side of the first abutment wall 211 toward the other side of the second abutment wall 212; correspondingly, the fourth edge 2184 extends from the other side of the second abutment wall 212 toward the other side of the first abutment wall 211.

[0125] The first edge 2181, the second edge 2182, the third edge 2183, and the fourth edge 2184 constitute the first edge 218 of the first connector 21. When the first connector 21 mates with the adapter terminal 1 along the third direction A3-A3, the first edge 218 provides guidance. Furthermore, the first edge 218 can also provide positional constraint on the adapter terminal 1 located within the first mating space 215.

[0126] See Figure 2 The first conductive terminal 2 is inserted into the adapter terminal 1 at a 90° angle along the third direction A3-A3. During insertion, the first ridge 218 of the first conductive terminal 2 and the second guide portion 1327 in the adapter terminal 1 provide guidance.

[0127] In other embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 11 In the second embodiment shown, the first conductive terminal 2 and the adapter terminal 1 are connected along the second direction A2-A2.

[0128] At this time, the first ridge 218 of the first conductive terminal 2 and the first guide portion 1326 in the adapter terminal 1 are guided.

[0129] In the third embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 12 As shown, the first conductive terminal 2 is mated with the adapter terminal 1 at a 270° angle along the third direction A3-A3. At this time, the first ridge 218 and the second guide portion 1327 of the first conductive terminal 2 are guided. As described above, the arrangement of the first guide portion 1326 and the second guide portion 1327 allows the adapter terminal 1 to be mated with the corresponding conductive terminal (such as the first conductive terminal 2) at multiple angles (90°, 180°, or 270°). This advantage is particularly important in applications such as vehicles where high current needs to be transmitted and where sockets and plugs often require right-angle assembly.

[0130] See Figure 8The first abutment wall 211 includes a third positioning protrusion 2111, which protrudes from the first abutment wall 211 in a direction away from the second abutment wall 212. The third positioning protrusion 2111 facilitates the first insertion portion 21 to abut or snap into position on the connector.

[0131] In use, the first conductive terminal 2 and the adapter terminal 1 are assembled to the connector.

[0132] See Figure 2 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The second conductive terminal 3 includes a second plug portion 31 and a second connection portion 32 connected to the second plug portion 31.

[0133] The second connector 31 includes a third abutting wall 311, a fourth abutting wall 312 opposite to the third abutting wall 311, a fifth connecting wall 313 connecting one end of the third abutting wall 311 and one end of the fourth abutting wall 312, and a sixth connecting wall 314 connecting the other end of the third abutting wall 311 and the other end of the fourth abutting wall 312.

[0134] The second insertion portion 31 has a second mating end face 310 and a second mating space 315. The second mating space 315 extends through the second mating end face 310 along its extension direction (the second direction A2-A2 in the figure). The third abutment wall 311, the fourth abutment wall 312, the fifth connecting wall 313, and the sixth connecting wall 314 surround the second mating space 315.

[0135] The second connector 31 also has a third clearance groove 316 and a fourth clearance groove 317. The third clearance groove 316 penetrates the fifth connecting wall 313 along a direction perpendicular to the fifth connecting wall 313, and extends along the second direction A2-A2 and penetrates the second mating end face 310. The fourth clearance groove 317 penetrates the sixth connecting wall 314 along a direction perpendicular to the sixth connecting wall 314, and extends along the second direction A2-A2 and penetrates the second mating end face 310.

[0136] See Figure 2 and Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the second conductive terminal 3 is inserted into the adapter terminal 1 along the second direction A2-A2. After insertion, the third abutment wall 311 and the fourth abutment wall 312 are pressed against the outside of the first spring piece 112 to achieve electrical connection with the adapter terminal 1.

[0137] See Figure 2 and Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 31 further includes a fifth edge 3181, a sixth edge 3182, a seventh edge 3183, and an eighth edge 3184.

[0138] The fifth edge 3181 extends from one side of the third abutment wall 311 toward one side of the fourth abutment wall 312; correspondingly, the sixth edge 3182 extends from one side of the fourth abutment wall 312 toward one side of the third abutment wall 311. The seventh edge 3183 extends from the other side of the third abutment wall 311 toward the other side of the fourth abutment wall 312; correspondingly, the eighth edge 3184 extends from the other side of the fourth abutment wall 312 toward the other side of the third abutment wall 311.

[0139] The fifth edge 3181, the sixth edge 3182, the seventh edge 3183, and the eighth edge 3184 constitute the second edge 318 of the second insertion part 31.

[0140] When the second connector 31 mates with the adapter terminal 1 along a direction perpendicular to the second mating end face 310 (i.e., the second direction A2-A2 in the figure), the second ridge 318 provides guidance. Furthermore, the second ridge 318 can also constrain the position of the adapter terminal 1 located within the second mating space 315.

[0141] See Figure 9 The third abutment wall 311 includes a fourth positioning protrusion 3111, which protrudes from the third abutment wall 311 in a direction away from the fourth abutment wall 312.

[0142] The fourth positioning protrusion 3111 makes it easy for the second insertion part 31 to abut or snap into the mating connector.

[0143] As described above, both the first conductive terminal 2 and the second conductive terminal 3 have relatively simple structures and are easy to manufacture. The adapter terminal 1 is inserted into the first conductive terminal 2 and the second conductive terminal 3 respectively, making the connection method relatively simple. In addition, the first conductive terminal 2 and the adapter terminal 1 can be inserted at multiple angles (90°, 180° and 270°), which makes it easy for the corresponding connector and the mating connector to achieve connections at different angles.

[0144] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical solutions described in the present invention. The understanding of the present invention should be based on those skilled in the art. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still make modifications or equivalent substitutions to the present invention. All technical solutions and improvements that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. An adapter terminal (1), characterized in that, Including the fixing part (12); A first mating portion (11) is connected to the fixing portion (12), the first mating portion (11) is configured to mate with a conductive terminal of a connector, the first mating portion (11) includes a first base (111) and a first spring portion (112) that at least partially protrudes from the first base (111); and The second mating portion (13) is connected to the fixing portion (12) and is configured to mate with the conductive terminal of a mating connector. The second mating portion (13) includes a second base (131) and a second spring portion (132) that at least partially protrudes from the second base (131). The second spring portion (132) includes an abutment portion (1325), a first guide portion (1326), and a second guide portion (1327). The first guide portion (1326) and the second guide portion (1327) extend smoothly from the abutment portion (1325) to the second base portion (131) along different docking directions; Along the second direction (A2-A2), the first guide portion (1326) is disposed on one or both sides of the abutment portion (1325); Along the third direction (A3-A3), the second guide portion (1327) is connected to the side of the abutment portion (1325) near the second base portion (131); The second direction (A2-A2) is perpendicular to the third direction (A3-A3).

2. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second base (131) includes a third substrate (1311) and a fourth substrate (1312). The third substrate (1311) is connected to one end of the fixing part (12) along the second direction (A2-A2); The fourth substrate (1312) is connected to one end of the fixing part (12) along the second direction (A2-A2), and the third substrate (1311) and the fourth substrate (1312) are arranged side by side along the first direction (A1-A1); The second spring section (132) includes a fifth spring (1321) and a sixth spring (1322). The abutting part (1325) includes a first abutting part (1321a1) and a second abutting part (1322a1). The fifth spring (1321) is connected to the third substrate (1311). The fifth spring (1321) includes the first abutting portion (1321a1), and the first abutting portion (1321a1) protrudes from the third substrate (1311) along the first direction (A1-A1) and in a direction away from the fourth substrate (1312). The sixth spring (1322) is connected to the fourth substrate (1312). The sixth spring (1322) includes a second abutment portion (1322a1), and the second abutment portion (1322a1) protrudes from the fourth substrate (1312) along the first direction (A1-A1) and in a direction away from the third substrate (1311). The second direction (A2-A2) is perpendicular to the first direction (A1-A1).

3. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first guide section (1326) includes a first guide segment (1321a2) and a second guide segment (1322a2); The second guide portion (1327) includes a first guide piece (1321a3) and a second guide piece (1322a3); The fifth spring (1321) extends along the second direction (A2-A2), the fifth spring (1321) includes the first guide segment (1321a2) and extends along the second direction (A2-A2), the first guide segment (1321a2) is located on one or both sides of the first abutment portion (1321a1); Along the third direction (A3-A3), the first guide piece (1321a3) is connected to the side of the first abutment (1321a1) near the third substrate (1311); The sixth spring (1322) extends along the second direction (A2-A2), and the sixth spring (1322) includes the second guide section (1322a2) along the second direction (A2-A2). The second guide section (1322a2) is located on one or both sides of the second abutment (1322a1). Along the third direction (A3-A3), the second guide piece (1322a3) is connected to the side of the second abutment (1322a1) near the fourth substrate (1312); The third direction (A3-A3) is perpendicular to the first direction (A1-A1) and the second direction (A2-A2).

4. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first abutting portion (1321a1) and the first guide segment (1321a2) extend along the first arcuate surface (α); the second abutting portion (1322a1) and the second guide segment (1322a2) extend along the second arcuate surface (β).

5. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second spring section (132) also includes a seventh spring (1323) and an eighth spring (1324). The seventh spring (1323) extends from the third substrate (1311) along the second direction (A2-A2), and the extension direction of the seventh spring (1323) is opposite to the extension direction of the fifth spring (1321); along the third direction (A3-A3), the seventh spring (1323) and the fifth spring (1321) at least partially overlap, and the portion of the seventh spring (1323) protruding from the third substrate (1311) extends along the first arcuate surface (α); The eighth spring (1324) extends from the fourth substrate (1312) along the second direction (A2-A2), and the extension direction of the eighth spring (1324) is opposite to the extension direction of the sixth spring (1322); along the third direction (A3-A3), the eighth spring (1324) and the sixth spring (1322) at least partially overlap, and the portion of the sixth spring (1322) protruding from the fourth substrate (1312) extends along the second arcuate surface (β).

6. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first base (111) includes a first substrate (1111) and a second substrate (1112). The first substrate (1111) is connected to the other end of the fixing part (12) along the second direction (A2-A2); The second substrate (1112) is connected to the other end of the fixing part (12) along the second direction (A2-A2), and the first substrate (1111) and the second substrate (1112) are arranged side by side along the first direction (A1-A1); The first spring section (112) includes a first spring (1121) and a second spring (1122). The first spring (1121) is connected to the first substrate (1111). The first spring (1121) includes a first elastic contact portion (1121a). The first elastic contact portion (1121a) extends along the third arcuate surface (γ). The first elastic contact portion (1121a) protrudes from the first substrate (1111) along the first direction (A1-A1) and in a direction away from the second substrate (1112). The second spring (1122) is connected to the second substrate (1112). The second spring (1122) includes a second elastic contact portion (1122a). The second elastic contact portion (1122a) extends along the fourth arcuate surface (δ) and protrudes from the second substrate (1112) along the first direction (A1-A1) and in a direction away from the first substrate (1111).

7. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first spring section (112) also includes a third spring (1123) and a fourth spring (1124). The third spring (1123) extends from the first substrate (1111) along the second direction (A2-A2), and the extension direction of the third spring (1123) is opposite to the extension direction of the first spring (1121); along the third direction (A3-A3), the third spring (1123) and the first spring (1121) at least partially overlap, and the portion of the third spring (1123) protruding from the first substrate (1111) extends along the third arcuate surface (γ); The fourth spring (1124) extends from the second substrate (1112) along the second direction (A2-A2), and the extension direction of the fourth spring (1124) is opposite to the extension direction of the second spring (1122); along the third direction (A3-A3), the fourth spring (1124) and the second spring (1122) at least partially overlap, and the portion of the second spring (1122) protruding from the second substrate (1112) extends along the fourth arcuate surface (δ).

8. The adapter terminal (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that: The fixing part (12) includes a first fixing wall (121), a second fixing wall (122) opposite to the first fixing wall (121), a first connecting wall (123) connecting one end of the first fixing wall (121) and one end of the second fixing wall (122), and a second connecting wall (124) connecting the other end of the first fixing wall (121) and the other end of the second fixing wall (122). Along the second direction (A2-A2), one end of the first fixing wall (121) is connected to the first substrate (1111), and the other end of the first fixing wall (121) is connected to the third substrate (1311); one end of the second fixing wall (122) is connected to the second substrate (1112), and the other end of the second fixing wall (122) is connected to the fourth substrate (1312). Along the first direction (A1-A1), the first fixed wall (121) and the second fixed wall (122) are at least partially separated by a certain distance.

9. A connector, characterized in that: It includes a first conductive terminal (2) and an adapter terminal (1) that mates with the first conductive terminal (2); The adapter terminal (1) is the adapter terminal (1) as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. A connector assembly, characterized in that: Includes the connector and mating connector as described in claim 9; The mating connector includes a second conductive terminal (3), which is mated with the adapter terminal (1) of the connector.

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