Electrical connector system

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector system. An electrical connector system is provided, and the electrical connector system includes a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base includes a retaining shoulder within each terminal cavity. The electrical connector system includes terminals received in corresponding terminal cavities. Each terminal includes a locking lance that engages a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in a corresponding terminal cavity. Each locking lance includes a reinforcing rib extending longitudinally along the locking lance.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Indian Application No. 202241038047 filed on July 1, 2022, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The subject matter herein relates generally to electrical connectors. Background Art

[0003] Electrical connectors are used within an electrical connector system to provide electrical connections between various components of the system. For example, an electrical connector can transmit data and / or power across a connector interface. An electrical connector that terminates to the end of a cable is called a cable connector, and the cable transmits data and / or power to / from the electrical connector to a remote location within the system.

[0004] Conventional systems may have requirements for multiple electrical connectors with different numbers of terminals in order to change the number of data lines or change the amount of power transmitted by the electrical connector. For example, such conventional systems may include two-position connectors, three-position connectors, four-position connectors, six-position connectors, nine-position connectors, twelve-position connectors, sixteen-position connectors, or other types of connectors. Typically, each connector is designed differently to provide the desired number of terminals. Such systems are expensive to design and manufacture because each connector is individually designed and manufactured.

[0005] There is a need for electrical connectors having interchangeable parts to reduce design and manufacturing time and costs. Summary of the invention

[0006] In one embodiment, an electrical connector system is provided, and the electrical connector system includes a connector housing, the connector housing includes a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base includes a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity. The electrical connector system includes a terminal received in a corresponding terminal cavity. Each terminal includes a locking lance that engages a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity. Each locking lance includes a reinforcing rib extending longitudinally along the locking lance.

[0007] In another embodiment, an electrical connector system is provided, and the electrical connector system includes a connector housing, the connector housing includes a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base includes a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity. The connector housing extends between a mating end and a cable end. The mating end is configured to mate with a mating electrical connector. The connector housing includes a sealing recess at the mating end. The electrical connector system includes a face seal received in the sealing recess. The face seal includes a first sealing surface that engages the connector housing and seals against the connector housing. The face seal includes a second sealing surface that is configured to engage a mating connector housing of the mating electrical connector. The electrical connector system includes a terminal received in a corresponding terminal cavity. The terminal is terminated to an end of a cable extending from the cable end of the connector housing. Each terminal includes a locking spear that engages a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

[0008] In another embodiment, an electrical connector system is provided, and the electrical connector system includes a connector housing, the connector housing includes a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base includes a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity. The connector housing extends between a mating end and a cable end. The mating end is configured to mate with a mating electrical connector. The electrical connector system includes a terminal received in a corresponding terminal cavity. Each terminal includes a locking spear that engages a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity. Each terminal includes a body extending between a front portion and a rear portion. The terminal includes a socket at the front portion, the socket being configured to receive a pin terminal of a mating electrical connector. The terminal includes a plurality of mating beams extending into the socket to be electrically connected to the pin terminal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 An electrical connector system is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment showing a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector ready to mate with each other.

[0010] Figure 2 An electrical connector system is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment showing a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector mated together.

[0011] Figure 3 A product line of electrical connectors for an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 4 is an exploded view of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 is a front portion of a connector housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 is a rear portion of a connector housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 9 is a front perspective view of a portion of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Fig.10 is a perspective view of a portion of a terminal in an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Fig.11 is a top view of a portion of a terminal in an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a rear portion of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Fig.13 is a front perspective view of a connector housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Fig.14 is a rear perspective view of a connector housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Fig.15 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] Fig.16 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment showing the electrical connector in an unmated state.

[0026] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment showing the electrical connector in a mated state.

[0027] Fig.19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment showing a face seal between connector housings when the electrical connectors are in an unmated state.

[0028] Fig. 20 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment showing a face seal between connector housings when the electrical connectors are in a mated state.

[0029] Fig.21is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment showing the electrical connector in a mated state.

[0030] Fig. 22 is a rear perspective view of a TPA device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Fig.23 is a rear perspective view of a TPA device according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Figure 1 The electrical connector system 100 is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment showing a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300 ready to mate with each other. Figure 2 The electrical connector system 100 is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300 mated together.

[0033] The electrical connectors 200, 300 are configured to mate at the separable mating interface 110. The electrical connector 300 is considered to be a mating electrical connector for the electrical connector 200, and the components of the electrical connector 300 may be identified as "mating" components hereinafter. The electrical connector 200 is considered to be a mating electrical connector for the electrical connector 300, and the components of the electrical connector 200 may be identified as "mating" components hereinafter.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connectors 200, 300 are cable electrical connectors disposed at the ends of the cables 202, 302, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connectors 200, 300 are power connectors configured to transmit power across a separable mating interface; however, the electrical connectors 200, 300 may additionally or alternatively transmit data across a separable mating interface. In various embodiments, the electrical connectors 200, 300 may be used in automotive applications, industrial applications, appliances, or other applications.

[0035] The electrical connector 200 includes a retaining terminal 206 (in Figure 4 2. The connector housing 204 is shown in FIG. 20. The terminal 206 is terminated to the corresponding cable 202. The connector housing 204 extends between a mating end 210 at a front portion 211 of the connector housing 204 and a cable end 212 at a rear portion 213 of the connector housing 204. The cable 202 extends from the cable end 212. The mating end 210 is configured to mate with the electrical connector 300.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 200 includes one or more terminal position assurance (TPA) devices 140 coupled to the connector housing 204. The TPA device 140 is used to ensure that the terminal 206 is properly loaded and retained in the connector housing 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA device 140 is coupled to the rear portion 213 of the connector housing 204. The cable 202 extends through the TPA device 140. The TPA device 140 can engage the rear end of the terminal 206. In various embodiments, the TPA device 140 is secured to the connector housing 204 using a latch 142. In alternative embodiments, other securing devices can be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the latch 142 includes a window 144. The window 144 provides visual access to the latch feature of the connector housing 204, allowing the installer to visually check the connection between the latch 142 and the latch feature. Proper installation of the TPA device 140 provides the installer with assurance that the terminal 206 is properly installed in the connector housing 204.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 210 of the connector housing 204 is configured to be plugged into the electrical connector 300. The electrical connector 200 thus defines a plug connector, and the mating electrical connector 300 defines a receptacle connector that receives the mating end 210 of the plug connector 200.

[0038] The electrical connector 300 includes a connector housing 304 that holds terminals 306. The terminals 306 are terminated to corresponding cables 302. The connector housing 304 extends between a mating end 310 at a front portion 311 of the connector housing 304 and a cable end 312 at a rear portion 313 of the connector housing 304. The cable 302 extends from the cable end 312. The mating end 310 is configured to mate to the electrical connector 200.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304 defines a receptacle that receives the mating end 210 of the electrical connector 200. The electrical connector 300 thus defines a receptacle connector, and the mating electrical connector 200 defines a plug connector.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 300 includes one or more terminal position assurance (TPA) devices 150 coupled to the connector housing 304. The TPA device 150 is used to ensure that the terminal 306 is properly loaded and retained in the connector housing 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA device 150 is coupled to the rear portion 313 of the connector housing 304. The cable 302 extends through the TPA device 150. The TPA device 150 can engage the rear end of the terminal 306. In various embodiments, the TPA device 150 is secured to the connector housing 304 using a latch 152. In alternative embodiments, other securing devices can be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the latch 152 includes a window 154. The window 154 provides visual access to the latch feature of the connector housing 304, so that the installer can visually check the connection between the latch 152 and the latch feature. Proper installation of the TPA device 150 provides the installer with assurance that the terminal 306 is properly installed in the connector housing 304.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 300 is configured to be assembled to another component, such as a panel. For example, the electrical connector 300 can be received in a panel opening in the panel so that the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304 is located in front of the panel, and the cable end 312 of the connector housing 304 is located behind the panel. The electrical connector 300 includes a mounting projection 315 and a latch 317 for fixing the electrical connector 300 to the panel. For example, the mounting projection 315 can engage the rear side of the panel, and the latch 317 can be latchably connected to the front side of the panel. The latch 317 can be deflected to allow the electrical connector 300 to be removed from the panel. Optionally, the mounting projection 315 and the latch 317 can be provided at both the top and the bottom of the connector housing 304. In alternative embodiments, other types of mounting features can be used to fix the electrical connector 300 to the panel. For example, fasteners can be used to fix the electrical connector 300 to the panel.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a latch feature 314 for securing the electrical connector 300 to the electrical connector 200. For example, the latch feature 314 can be a latch projection extending from a side of the connector housing 304. Each latch projection can include a latch surface. The connector housing 204 includes a latch 214 that abuts against the latch feature 314 to secure the electrical connector 200 to the electrical connector 300. The latch 214 is disposed at an opposite side of the connector housing 204. The latch 214 is a deflectable latch configured to be released from the latch feature 314 to allow the electrical connector 200 to be removed from the electrical connector 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the latch 214 includes a window 216 through the body of the latch 214. The window 216 provides visual access to the latch feature 314. For example, an installer can visually inspect the connection between the latch 214 and the latch feature 314 to verify a proper latched connection between the electrical connectors 200 , 300 .

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, a face seal 120 is provided at the mating interface 110 between the electrical connectors 200 and 300. The face seal 120 is configured to be sealingly coupled to the front portion 211 of the connector housing 204, and is configured to be sealingly coupled to the front portion 311 of the connector housing 304. The face seal 120 provides a sealing interface between the electrical connectors 200 and 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the face seal 120 extends circumferentially around the perimeter of the connector housing 204 and / or the connector housing 304. When the electrical connectors 200 and 300 are mated, the face seal 120 can be compressed between the connector housings 204 and 304. The face seal 120 can be a sealing gasket. In various embodiments, the face seal 120 is made of a rubber material. In various embodiments, the cable 202 and / or the cable 302 can be sealed in the connector housings 204 and 304, respectively. For example, a cable seal (not shown) may be provided between the cable 202 and the connector housing 204 and / or between the cable 302 and the connector housing 304 .

[0044] Figure 3 The diagram shows a product series of electrical connectors 200 , 300 for the electrical connector system 100 . Figure 3 Complementary pairs of electrical connectors 200, 300 are shown. Each pair includes similar features; however, each pair has a different number of terminals 206, 306 and cables 202, 302. The connector housings 204, 304 are sized and shaped to accommodate the different number of terminals 206, 306 and cables 202, 302.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the first pair of electrical connectors A is a twelve-position electrical connector 200a, 300a. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 4×3 matrix (4 columns×3 rows). The second pair of electrical connectors B is a nine-position electrical connector 200b, 300b. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 3×3 matrix (3 columns×3 rows). The third pair of electrical connectors C is a six-position electrical connector 200c, 300c. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 2×3 matrix (2 columns×3 rows). The fourth pair of electrical connectors D is a four-position electrical connector 200d, 300d. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 4×1 matrix (4 columns×1 row). The fifth pair of electrical connectors E is a three-position electrical connector 200e, 300e. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 3×1 matrix (3 columns×1 row). The sixth pair of electrical connectors F is a two-position electrical connector 200f, 300f. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 2×1 matrix (2 columns×1 row). In other embodiments, other types of electrical connectors having different numbers of terminal positions may be provided.

[0046] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The electrical connector system 100 includes a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300 , and a face seal 120 between the first electrical connector 200 and the second electrical connector 300 . Figure 4 A subset of the terminals 206 are shown ready to be loaded into the connector housing 204 and one of the TPA devices 140 is shown ready to be loaded into the connector housing 204 . Figure 4 A subset of the terminals 306 are shown ready to be loaded into the connector housing 304 and one of the TPA devices 150 is shown ready to be loaded into the connector housing 304 .

[0047] Additional references Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 2 are front and rear perspective views of a connector housing 204, respectively, the connector housing 204 includes a base 220 and a plurality of terminal passages 230 extending through the base 220. The terminal passages 230 receive corresponding terminals 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 220 extends between a top 222 and a bottom 224 of the connector housing 204. The base 220 extends between a first side 226 and a second side 228 of the connector housing 204. The base 220 may be generally rectangular in shape. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 220 may have other shapes.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 204 includes a terminal tube 232 extending forward from the base 220 of the connector housing 204 to the front 211 and a cable tube 234 extending backward from the base 220 of the connector housing 204 to the rear 213. The terminal channel 230 is open through the terminal tube 232 and the cable tube 234. The terminal 206 is received in the corresponding terminal tube 232. The cable 202 is received in the corresponding cable tube 234. Optionally, the terminal 206 can extend into the cable tube 234 to connect with the cable 202. In various embodiments, the base 220 can be approximately centered between the front 211 and the rear 213. For example, the terminal tube 232 can have a length approximately equal to the cable tube 234. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 220 can be closer to the front 211 or closer to the rear 213. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 204 includes a front recess 236 between corresponding terminal tubes 232 and a rear recess 238 between corresponding cable tubes 234. The recesses 236, 238 may be filled with air. For example, the material of the connector housing 204 may be removed to form the recesses 236, 238, and thus reduce the weight of the connector housing 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal tube 232 and the cable tube 234 are generally cylindrical. However, in alternative embodiments, the terminal tube 232 and / or the cable tube 234 may have other shapes. For example, one or more of the terminal tubes 232 may have different shapes (e.g., having one or more flat surfaces, such as D-shaped) for keying with the socket connector 300.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 204 includes a sealing pocket 246 at the mating end 210. The sealing pocket 246 can be provided in the front surface of the base 220. The face seal 120 is configured to be received in the sealing pocket 246. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing pocket 246 includes a groove 248. The groove 248 extends circumferentially around the perimeter of the base 220 (such as around the terminal tube 232). The face seal 120 can be pressed into the groove 248, such as by the connector housing 304, to lock the face seal in the sealing pocket 246.

[0050] In the exemplary embodiment, the latches 214 extend from the sides 226, 228 of the connector housing 204. In alternative embodiments, the latches 214 may be located at other locations, such as along the top 222 and / or bottom 224. In the illustrated embodiment, the latches 214 extend from the base 220.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 204 includes TPA latch elements 218 for securing the TPA device 140 to the connector housing 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA latch elements 218 are located at the top 222 and the bottom 224. The TPA latch elements 218 can be located proximate the rear portion 213. For example, the TPA latch elements 218 can extend from one or more of the cable tubes 234. In alternative embodiments, the TPA latch elements 218 can be at other locations.

[0052] Return to reference Figure 4 In an exemplary embodiment, the TPA device 140 includes a hollow insert 146 configured to be inserted into a corresponding cable tube 234. Each insert 146 includes a cable hole 148 that receives a corresponding cable 202. A distal end 149 of the insert 146 faces a rear end of the terminal 206. The distal end 149 of the insert 146 can engage the rear end of the terminal 206 to retain the terminal 206 in the terminal passage 230. If one of the terminals 206 is improperly loaded (such as not fully loaded) into the terminal passage 230, the distal end 149 of the insert 146 can bottom out against such a terminal 206, which restricts the TPA device 140 from being mated to the connector housing 204. For example, when the TPA device 140 bottoms out against the improperly loaded terminal 206, the latch 142 cannot engage the TPA latch element 218, which provides a visual indication to the installer that one of the terminals 206 is improperly loaded into the connector housing 204.

[0053] The terminal 206 is terminated to the end of the cable 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 is crimped onto the end of the cable 202. In various embodiments, a cable seal 160 may be provided at the end of the cable 202. The terminal 206 may be crimped to the cable seal 160. The cable seal 160 is configured to sealingly engage the cable 202. The cable seal 160 is configured to be inserted into a corresponding cable tube 234 to seal to the connector housing 204. The cable seal 160 prevents moisture or debris from entering the connector housing 204 through the rear portion 213. For example, the cable seal 160 seals against the cable tube 234 and seals against the end of the cable 202.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the cable seal 160 is an optional component. For example, the electrical connector 200 can be utilized with or without the cable seal 160 . Figure 4Two cables 202 with cable seals 160 and two cables 202 without cable seals 160 are shown in the diagram to illustrate two different configurations. However, typically, all cables 202 will be sealed or unsealed using cable seals 160. The connector housing 204 is designed to receive cables 202 with or without cable seals 160. In other words, the same connector housing 204 can be used in a sealed system or an unsealed system. Using the same connector housing 204 with sealed cables or unsealed cables reduces the overall cost of the electrical connector system 100 (such as by reducing the total number of parts used in the electrical connector system 100). The design cost of the electrical connector system 100 is reduced because different connector housings do not need to be designed for both sealed applications and unsealed applications.

[0055] In various embodiments, the TPA device 140 is not used when the cable seal 160 is utilized. For example, the cable tube 234 is not sized to receive both the cable seal 160 and the TPA device 140. Instead, the cable seal 160 can provide visual assurance to the installer that the terminal 206 is fully loaded into the connector housing 204. For example, the cable seal 160 can be visible at or protruding from the cable tube 234 when the terminal 206 is not fully loaded into the connector housing 204.

[0056] Additional references Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 2 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the terminals 206, each of which includes a body 250 extending between a mating end 252 and a terminating end 254. The terminating end 254 is configured to be terminated to the cable 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 includes a crimp barrel 256 at the terminating end 254, and the crimp barrel 256 is configured to be crimped to the end of the cable 202. Figure 7 The sealing style of the terminal 206 is shown, wherein the cable seal 160 is provided at the end of the cable 202 . Figure 8 An unsealed version of the terminal 206 is shown. In the unsealed version, the crimp barrel 256 is crimped directly to the outer jacket of the cable 202. In the sealed version, the crimp barrel 256 is crimped to the cable seal 160.

[0057] Additional references Fig. 9 , Fig. 9 2 is a front perspective view of a portion of the terminal 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 includes a socket 258 at the mating end 252. The socket 258 is configured to receive a pin ( Figure 4In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 is stamped and formed. For example, the terminal 206 may be stamped from a sheet of metal and formed into a tubular shape defining a socket 258 at the mating end 252 .

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 includes a mating beam 260 near the front of the body 250. Each mating beam 260 is stamped from the body 250 and formed to have a curved mating interface near its distal end. The mating beam 260 is bent inward to extend into the socket 258 to dock with the terminal 306. The mating beam 260 is deflectable and is configured to deflect outward when docking with the terminal 306. Such deflection produces an internal spring force that biases the mating beam 260 inward toward the terminal 306 to maintain a mechanical connection and electrical connection with the terminal 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 206 includes three mating beams 260 in the mating beam 260, and the three mating beams 260 are angularly offset from each other around the socket 258 and are equidistantly spaced. However, in alternative embodiments, the terminal 206 may include more or fewer mating beams 260.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 includes a centering tab 262 proximate the front of the body 250. The centering tab 262 is angularly offset from the mating beams 260 (e.g., centered between the mating beams 260). The centering tab 262 is configured to position the terminal 306 to coincide with the socket 258. For example, the centering tab 262 prevents the terminal 306 from traveling too far to one side relative to the terminal 206, which prevents overstressing of any of the mating beams 260. In an exemplary embodiment, the centering tab 262 is located forward of the mating interface of the mating beams 260, such that the centering tab 262 is mated with the terminal 306 before the mating beams 260 are mated with the terminal 306 during mating. In other words, the centering tab 262 centers the terminal 306 within the socket 258 before the terminal 306 engages the mating beams 260.

[0060] Return to reference Figure 4 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 , and additionally refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 , Fig.10 and Fig.112 are perspective and top views of a portion of a terminal 206, respectively, which, in an exemplary embodiment, includes a locking lance 270. The locking lance 270 is used to secure the terminal 206 in the connector housing 204. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking lance 270 is integrally formed with the body 250. For example, the locking lance 270 is stamped and formed by the body 250. The locking lance 270 is disposed along opposite sides of the terminal 206. In alternative embodiments, the locking lance 270 may be located at other locations. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 206 includes a pair of locking lances 270; however, in alternative embodiments, the terminal 206 may include more or fewer locking lances 270.

[0061] Each locking lance 270 includes a lance arm 272 extending between a fixed end 274 and a free end 276. The locking lance 270 is angled outward from the fixed end to the free end 276 to form a gap 278 between the free end 276 and the body 250 of the terminal 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking lance 270 includes an end projection 280 extending inward from the free end 276 toward the body 250. Optionally, the end projection 280 can extend generally perpendicular to the lance arm 272. The end projection 280 can substantially fill the gap 278 so as to prevent the cable 202 from entering the gap 278. The end projection 280 prevents the cable 202 from catching on the locking lance 270 during assembly, which can damage the locking lance 270.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking lance 270 includes a reinforcing rib 282 extending longitudinally along the locking lance 270. In various embodiments, the reinforcing rib 282 is integrally formed with the lance arm 272. For example, during the forming process, the reinforcing rib 282 can be coined or pressed by the lance arm 272. The reinforcing rib 282 increases the flexing force necessary to flex the locking lance 270 (such as when a pulling force in the rearward pulling direction is induced on the cable 202). In an exemplary embodiment, the reinforcing rib 282 extends a majority of the length of the lance arm 272 between the fixed end 274 and the free end 276. For example, the reinforcing rib 282 can extend more than 50% of the length of the lance arm 272. In various embodiments, the reinforcing rib 282 can extend more than 75% of the length of the lance arm 272. In an exemplary embodiment, the reinforcing rib 282 protrudes from the lance arm 272 of the locking lance 270 in the thickness direction. For example, these reinforcing ribs 282 can extend inwardly from the inner surface of the lance arm 272 or extend outwardly from the outer surface of the lance arm 272.

[0063] Return to reference Figure 4 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 , and additionally refer to Fig.12 , Fig.122 is a perspective view of the rear portion of the terminal 206, which includes a stop projection 284 at the rear of the body 250. The stop projection 284 may extend radially outward from the body 250. In an exemplary embodiment, the stop projection 284 is formed integrally with the body 250, such as being stamped and formed together with the body 250. The stop projection 284 is used to position the terminal 206 in the connector housing 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop projection 284 is located at the top of the terminal 206; however, in alternative embodiments, the stop projection 284 may be located at other locations. Optionally, in alternative embodiments, a plurality of stop projections may be provided. In various embodiments, the stop projection 284 may extend completely circumferentially around the body 250 at the rear. For example, the terminal 206 may include a flange defining the stop projection 284 at the rear.

[0064] Return to reference Figure 4 , and additionally refer to Fig.13 and Fig.14 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 304, and the connector housing 304 includes a base 320 and a plurality of terminal passages 330 extending through the base 320. The terminal passages 330 receive corresponding terminals 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 320 extends between a top 322 and a bottom 324 of the connector housing 304. The base 320 extends between a first side 326 and a second side 328 of the connector housing 304. The base 320 may be generally rectangular in shape. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 320 may have other shapes.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a shroud 340 that forms a receptacle 342 that receives the mating end 210 of the connector housing 204. The shroud 340 extends forward from the base 320. The shroud 340 is located at the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304. The shroud 340 is defined by walls along a top 322, a bottom 324, a first side 326, and a second side 328. The shroud 340 extends to a mating edge 344 at the front 311. In an exemplary embodiment, the mating edge 344 is configured to sealingly engage the face seal 120.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a terminal tube 332 extending forward from the base 320 of the connector housing 304 to the front 311 and a cable tube 334 extending backward from the base 320 of the connector housing 304 to the rear 313. The terminal tube 332 extends into the socket 342. For example, the shield 340 surrounds the terminal tube 332. The terminal channel 330 is open through the terminal tube 332 and the cable tube 334. The terminal 306 is received in the corresponding terminal tube 332. The cable 302 is received in the corresponding cable tube 334. Optionally, the terminal 306 can extend into the cable tube 334 to connect with the cable 302. In various embodiments, the base 320 can be approximately centered between the front 311 and the rear 313. For example, the terminal tube 332 can have a length approximately equal to the cable tube 334. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 320 can be closer to the front 311 or closer to the rear 313. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a front recess 336 between corresponding terminal tubes 332 and a rear recess 338 between corresponding cable tubes 334. The recesses 336, 338 may be filled with air. For example, the material of the connector housing 304 may be removed to form the recesses 336, 338, and thus reduce the weight of the connector housing 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal tube 332 and the cable tube 334 are generally cylindrical. However, in alternative embodiments, the terminal tube 332 and / or the cable tube 334 may have other shapes. For example, one or more of the terminal tubes 332 may have different shapes (e.g., having one or more flat surfaces, such as D-shaped) for keying with the socket connector 300.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a sealing shoulder 348 that protrudes forward at the mating end 310. The sealing shoulder 348 may be located at the mating edge 344 of the shroud 340. The sealing shoulder 348 is configured to engage the face seal 120 and press the face seal 120 into sealing engagement with the connector housing 204. The sealing shoulder 348 may have a certain contour, such as a triangular shape.

[0068] In the exemplary embodiment, the latch features 314 extend from the sides 326, 328 of the connector housing 304. In alternative embodiments, the latch features 314 may be located at other locations, such as along the top 322 and / or bottom 324. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch features 314 extend from the exterior of the shroud 340.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a TPA latch element 318 for securing the TPA device 150 to the connector housing 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA latch element 318 is located at the sides 326, 328; however, in alternative embodiments, the TPA latch element 318 may be located at the top 322 and the bottom 324. The TPA latch element 318 may be positioned proximate the rear portion 313. For example, the TPA latch element 318 may extend from one or more of the cable tubes 334. In alternative embodiments, the TPA latch element 318 may be at other locations.

[0070] Return to reference Figure 4 In an exemplary embodiment, the TPA device 150 includes a hollow insert 156 configured to be inserted into a corresponding cable tube 334. Each insert 156 includes a cable hole 158 that receives a corresponding cable 302. The TPA device 150 can be identical to the TPA device 140, which allows the same parts to be used in both electrical connectors 200, 300, which can reduce the overall cost of the electrical connector system 100 by reducing design and manufacturing costs. The distal end 159 of the insert 156 faces the rear end of the terminal 306. The distal end 159 of the insert 156 can engage the rear end of the terminal 306 to retain the terminal 306 in the terminal channel 330. If one of the terminals 306 is improperly loaded (such as not fully loaded) into the terminal channel 330, the distal end 159 of the insert 156 can bottom out against such a terminal 306, which restricts the TPA device 150 from being mated to the connector housing 304. For example, when the TPA device 150 bottoms out against an improperly loaded terminal 306 , the latch 152 fails to engage the TPA latch element 318 , which provides a visual indication to the installer that one of the terminals 306 is improperly loaded into the connector housing 304 .

[0071] The terminal 306 is terminated to the end of the cable 302. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 is crimped onto the end of the cable 302. In various embodiments, a cable seal 160 may be provided at the end of the cable 302. The terminal 306 may be crimped to the cable seal 160. The cable seal 160 is configured to sealingly engage the cable 302. The cable seal 160 is configured to be inserted into a corresponding cable tube 334 to seal to the connector housing 304. The cable seal 160 prevents moisture or debris from entering the connector housing 304 through the rear portion 313. For example, the cable seal 160 seals against the cable tube 334 and seals against the end of the cable 302.

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment, the cable seal 160 is an optional component. For example, the electrical connector 300 can be utilized with or without the cable seal 160 . Figure 4Two cables 302 with cable seals 160 and two cables 302 without cable seals 160 are shown in the diagram to illustrate two different configurations. However, typically, all cables 302 will be sealed or unsealed using cable seals 160. The connector housing 304 is designed to receive cables 302 with or without cable seals 160. In other words, the same connector housing 304 can be used in a sealed system or an unsealed system. Using the same connector housing 304 with sealed cables or unsealed cables reduces the overall cost of the electrical connector system 100 (such as by reducing the total number of parts used in the electrical connector system 100). The design cost of the electrical connector system 100 is reduced because different connector housings do not need to be designed for both sealed and unsealed applications.

[0073] In various embodiments, the TPA device 150 is not used when the cable seal 160 is utilized. For example, the cable tube 334 is not sized to receive both the cable seal 160 and the TPA device 150. Instead, the cable seal 160 can provide visual assurance to the installer that the terminal 306 is fully loaded into the connector housing 304. For example, the cable seal 160 can be visible at or protruding from the cable tube 334 when the terminal 306 is not fully loaded into the connector housing 304.

[0074] Additional references Fig.15 and Fig.16 , Fig.15 and Fig.16 3 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the terminals 306, each of which includes a body 350 extending between a mating end 352 and a terminating end 354. The terminating end 354 is configured to be terminated to the cable 302. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 includes a crimp barrel 356 at the terminating end 354, and the crimp barrel 356 is configured to be crimped to the end of the cable 302. Fig.15 The sealing style of the terminal 306 is shown, wherein the cable seal 160 is provided at the end of the cable 302 . Fig.16 An unsealed version of the terminal 306 is shown. In the unsealed version, the crimp barrel 356 is crimped directly to the outer jacket of the cable 302. In the sealed version, the crimp barrel 356 is crimped to the cable seal 160.

[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 includes a pin 358 at the mating end 352. The pin 358 is configured to be received in the socket 258 of the terminal 206 ( Figure 4 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 is stamped and formed. For example, the terminal 306 can be stamped from a sheet of metal and formed into a tubular shape having a tapered nose defining a pin 358 at the mating end 352.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 includes a locking lance 370. The locking lance 370 is used to secure the terminal 306 in the connector housing 304. The locking lance 370 can be similar to the locking lance 270 ( Figure 4 ). Each locking lance 370 includes a lance arm 372 extending between a fixed end 374 and a free end 376. The locking lance 370 is angled outward from the fixed end to the free end 376 to form a gap 378 between the free end 376 and the body 350 of the terminal 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking lance 370 includes an end protrusion 380 extending inward from the free end 376 toward the body 350. Optionally, the end protrusion 380 can extend generally perpendicular to the lance arm 372. The end protrusion 380 can substantially fill the gap 378 so as to prevent the cable 302 from entering the gap 378. The end protrusion 380 prevents the cable 302 from hooking on the locking lance 370 during assembly, which can damage the locking lance 370.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking lance 370 includes a reinforcing rib 382 that extends longitudinally along the locking lance 370. In various embodiments, the reinforcing rib 382 is integrally formed with the lance arm 372. For example, the reinforcing rib 382 can be pressed or pressed from the lance arm 372 during the forming process. The reinforcing rib 382 increases the flexing force necessary to flex the locking lance 370 (such as when a pulling force in a rearward pulling direction is induced on the cable 302). In an exemplary embodiment, the reinforcing rib 382 extends a majority of the length of the lance arm 372 between the fixed end 374 and the free end 376.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 includes a stop projection 384 at the rear of the body 350. The stop projection 384 can extend radially outward from the body 350. In an exemplary embodiment, the stop projection 384 is integrally formed with the body 350, such as being stamped and formed together with the body 350. The stop projection 384 is used to position the terminal 306 in the connector housing 304.

[0079] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the electrical connectors 200 , 300 in an unmated state. Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment, which shows the electrical connectors 200, 300 in a mated state. The electrical connectors 200, 300 are shown as sealed connectors having a cable seal 160 sealed to the cable 202, 302 and the connector housing 204, 304. For example, the cable seal 160 is received in the cable tube 234, 334 and is sealed to the connector housing 204, 304 in the cable tube 234, 334.

[0080] During assembly, the terminal 206 and the cable 202 are loaded into the connector housing 204 (such as through the rear portion 213). The terminal 206 and the cable 202 are loaded into the terminal passage 230 through the cable tube 234. The terminal 206 passes through the base 220 into the terminal tube 232. The socket 258 at the mating end 252 of the terminal 206 is positioned in the terminal tube 232 for mating with the terminal 306. When the terminal 206 is fully inserted into the connector housing 204, the locking lance 270 flexes outward to engage the connector housing 204 to hold the terminal 206 in the connector housing 204. For example, the free end 276 of the locking lance 270 engages the retaining shoulder 221 of the base 220. The locking lance 270 prevents the terminal 206 from being pulled back out of the connector housing 204. The reinforcing ribs 282 increase the flexing force necessary to flex the locking lance 270 (such as when a pulling force in a rearward pulling direction is induced on the cable 202). In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 is loaded into the connector housing 204 until the stop projection 284 engages the base 220 or a retaining shoulder (not shown) of the base 220 (e.g., bottoms out against the base 220 or a retaining shoulder of the base 220). The stop projection 284 prevents the terminal 206 from moving forward into the connector housing 204 beyond the stop position. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 220 is captured between the stop projection 284 and the locking lance 270.

[0081] During assembly, the terminal 306 and the cable 302 are loaded into the connector housing 304 (such as through the rear portion 313). The terminal 306 and the cable 302 are loaded into the terminal passage 330 through the cable tube 334. The terminal 306 passes through the base 320 into the terminal tube 332. The pin 358 at the mating end 352 of the terminal 306 is positioned in the terminal tube 332 for mating with the socket 258 of the terminal 206. When the terminal 306 is fully inserted into the connector housing 304, the locking lance 370 flexes outward to engage the connector housing 304 to hold the terminal 306 in the connector housing 304. For example, the free end 376 of the locking lance 370 engages the retaining shoulder 321 of the base 320. The locking lance 370 prevents the terminal 306 from being pulled back out of the connector housing 304. The reinforcing ribs 382 increase the flexion force necessary to flex the locking lances 370 (such as when a pulling force in a rearward pulling direction is induced on the cable 302). In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 is loaded into the connector housing 304 until the stop projection 384 engages the base 320 or a retaining shoulder (not shown) of the base 320 (e.g., bottoms out against the base 320 or a retaining shoulder of the base 320). The stop projection 384 prevents the terminal 306 from moving forward into the connector housing 304 beyond the stop position. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 320 is captured between the stop projection 384 and the locking lances 370.

[0082] During mating, the mating end 210 of the connector housing 204 is inserted into the receptacle 342 at the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304. The shroud 340 surrounds the mating end 210 of the connector housing 204. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal tube 232 is loaded into the terminal tube 332. The terminal 206 is mated to the terminal 306. For example, the pin 358 is loaded into the socket 258. The mating beam 260 engages the pin 358 of the terminal 306 to electrically join the terminal 206 to the terminal 306. The centering tab 362 centers the pin 358 within the socket 258 to prevent overstressing of any of the mating beams 260. The electrical connectors 200, 300 are mated until the latch 214 latchably engages the latch feature 314. In the exemplary embodiment, the latch feature 314 is exposed through the window 216 of the latch 214 for visual inspection or verification that the latch 214 is latchably coupled to the latch feature 314 .

[0083] The face seal 120 is positioned between the connector housings 204, 304 to provide a sealed mating interface between the electrical connectors 200, 300. The face seal 120 is coupled to the connector housing 204. The mating edge 344 of the connector housing 304 engages the face seal 120 when mated.

[0084] Fig.19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electrical connector system 100 illustrating the face seal 120 between the connector housings 204 , 304 when the electrical connectors 200 , 300 are in an unmated state. Fig. 20 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the electrical connector system 100 illustrating the face seal 120 between the connector housings 204 , 304 when the electrical connectors 200 , 300 are in a mated state.

[0085] The face seal 120 is positioned in the sealing pocket 246 at the mating end 210 of the connector housing 204. When assembled, the face seal 120 is aligned with the groove 248. In various embodiments, the face seal 120 does not necessarily extend into the groove 248 before mating with the sealing shoulder 348 of the connector housing 304. When mated ( Fig. 20 ), the sealing shoulder 348 is pressed into the face seal 120. The sealing shoulder 348 can compress the face seal 120. In the exemplary embodiment, the sealing shoulder 348 forces the face seal 120 into the groove 248 to lock the face seal 120 in the sealing pocket 246. The face seal 120 is compressed between the connector housings 204, 304 to create a sealing interface with the connector housings 204, 304.

[0086] Fig.211 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment, which shows the electrical connectors 200, 300 in a mated state. The electrical connectors 200, 300 are shown as unsealed connectors (without Fig.17 and Fig.18 In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA devices 140, 150 are used to ensure that the terminals 206, 306 are properly positioned after assembly.

[0087] During assembly, after the terminals 206, 306 are loaded into the connector housings 204, 304, respectively, the TPA devices 140, 150 are coupled to the rear ends of the connector housings 204, 304. The inserts 146, 156 of the TPA devices 140, 150 are inserted into the corresponding wire tubes 234, 334. The distal ends 149, 159 face the rear ends of the terminals 206, 306. The distal ends 149, 159 may engage the rear ends to hold the terminals 206, 306 in the terminal passages 230, 330. If one of the terminals 206 or 306 is improperly loaded (e.g., not fully loaded) into the terminal passage 230 or 330, the distal ends 149, 159 may bottom out against such a terminal 206, 306, which restricts the TPA devices 140, 150 from mating with the connector housings 204, 304, respectively, which provides a visual indication to the installer that one of the terminals 206, 306 is improperly loaded into the connector housings 204, 304.

[0088] Fig. 22 1 is a rear perspective view of a TPA device 150 according to an exemplary embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA device 150 includes two rows of cable holes 158 to receive two rows of cables. The cable holes 158 are open at the sides thereof, such as for loading cables into the cable holes 158 from the sides. In the illustrated embodiment, the latches 152 of the TPA device 150 are located at the sides. However, in alternative embodiments, other locations are possible.

[0089] Fig.23 1 is a rear perspective view of a TPA device 150 according to an exemplary embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA device 150 includes a single row of cable holes 158. The cable holes 158 are open at the bottom thereof, such as for loading cables through the bottom into the cable holes 158. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 152 of the TPA device 150 is located at the top. However, in alternative embodiments, other positions are possible.

[0090] It will be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. For example, the embodiments described above (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with one another. In addition, without departing from the scope of the present invention, many modifications may be made to adapt specific situations or materials to the teachings of the present invention. The dimensions, material types, orientations of various components, and the number and position of various components described herein are intended to define the parameters of certain embodiments, and are by no means restrictive, but are merely exemplary embodiments. Upon reviewing the above description, many other embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims together with the full scope of equivalents granted by such claims. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the corresponding terms "comprising" and "wherein". In addition, in the following claims, the terms "first", "second", and "third", etc. are used only as markers, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the following claim limitations are not written in a means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for..." followed by a recitation of the function without additional structure.

Claims

1. An electrical connector system, comprising: a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base, the base including a retaining shoulder within each terminal cavity; as well as Terminals are received in corresponding terminal cavities, each terminal including a locking lance engaging a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity, each locking lance including a reinforcing rib extending longitudinally along the locking lance.

2. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcement rib protrudes from the locking lance in a thickness direction.

3. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking lance includes a lance arm extending from a fixed end to a free end that engages the retaining shoulder, the reinforcing rib extending a majority of the length of the lance arm between the fixed end and the free end.

4. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The reinforcing ribs increase the buckling force necessary to buckle the locking lance.

5. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking lance includes an end projection extending inwardly from an end of the locking lance.

6. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking lance extends between a fixed end and a free end, the locking lance being angled outwardly from the fixed end to the free end to form a gap between the free end and the body of the terminal, the locking lance including an end projection extending inwardly from the free end toward the body to at least partially close the gap.

7. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal includes a body extending between a front portion and a rear portion, the terminal includes a crimping barrel extending behind the rear portion for connecting to a cable, the body includes a stop protrusion extending outward from the end portion, the stop protrusion is configured to engage the base of the connector housing to position the terminal in the terminal cavity.

8. The electrical connector system according to claim 7, wherein: The terminal is loaded into the terminal cavity such that the base is captured between the stop projection that prevents the terminal from moving forward in the terminal cavity and the locking lance that prevents the terminal from moving rearward in the terminal cavity.

9. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal includes a body extending between a front portion and a rear portion, the terminal including a crimp barrel behind the rear portion, the crimp barrel being crimped to an end portion of a cable, wherein the crimp barrel is crimped to a cable seal to retain the cable seal on the end portion of the cable.

10. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal includes a body extending between a front portion and a rear portion, the terminal including a socket at the front portion, the socket being configured to receive a pin terminal of a mating electrical connector, the terminal including a plurality of mating beams extending into the socket to electrically connect to the pin terminal.

11. The electrical connector system according to claim 10, wherein: The mating beams are angularly offset and have uniform spacing therebetween.

12. The electrical connector system according to claim 10, wherein: The terminal includes a centering tab proximate the front of the body, the centering tab being angularly offset from the mating beam, the centering tab being configured to position the pin to coincide with the socket.

13. The electrical connector system according to claim 12, wherein: The centering projection is located in front of the mating interface of the mating beam, so that the centering projection is in abutment with the pin before the mating beam is in abutment with the pin during mating.

14. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal cavities are arranged in rows and columns to hold the terminals in rows and columns for mating with mating terminals of a mating electrical connector.

15. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The connector housing includes a terminal tube in front of the base and a cable tube behind the base, the terminal cavity extends through the corresponding terminal tube and the corresponding cable tube, the terminal includes a mating end in the corresponding terminal tube for mating with a mating terminal of a mating electrical connector, the terminal is terminated to a cable, and the cable extends through the cable tube to leave the connector housing.

16. The electrical connector system according to claim 15, wherein: The front recess is located between the corresponding terminal tubes, and the rear recess is located between the corresponding cable tubes.

17. The electrical connector system according to claim 1, wherein: The connector housing includes a latch configured to latchably secure the connector housing to a latch feature of the mating electrical connector, the latch including a window through the latch that allows visual access to the latch feature of the mating electrical connector when the latch is latchably coupled to the latch feature.

18. The electrical connector system according to claim 1 further includes a terminal position assurance (TPA) device connected to the connector housing, the TPA including a retaining shoulder at the front of the TPA device, the retaining shoulder being received in a corresponding terminal cavity to engage the terminal.

19. The electrical connector system of claim 1, further comprising a face seal at the mating end of the connector housing, the face seal configured to seal between the mating end of the connector housing and a mating connector housing of a mating electrical connector.

20. The electrical connector system of claim 19, wherein: The connector housing includes a sealing pocket at the mating end, the face seal being received in the sealing pocket.

21. The electrical connector system of claim 20, wherein: The seal pocket includes a groove into which the face seal is pressed by the mating connector housing to lock the face seal in the seal pocket.

22. The electrical connector system of claim 19, wherein: The connector housing includes a forwardly projecting sealing shoulder at the mating end, the sealing shoulder being configured to engage the face seal and press the face seal into sealing engagement with the mating connector housing.

23. An electrical connector system, comprising: a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base, the base including a retaining shoulder within each terminal cavity, the connector housing extending between a mating end and a cable end, the mating end being configured to mate with a mating electrical connector, the connector housing including a sealing recess at the mating end; a face seal received in the seal pocket, the face seal including a first sealing surface engaging the connector housing and sealing against the connector housing, the face seal including a second sealing surface configured to engage a mating connector housing of the mating electrical connector; as well as Terminals are received in corresponding terminal cavities, the terminals terminating to ends of cables extending from the cable end of the connector housing, each terminal including a locking lance that engages a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

24. The electrical connector system of claim 23, wherein: The seal pocket includes a groove into which the face seal is pressed by the mating connector housing to lock the face seal in the seal pocket.

25. An electrical connector system, comprising: a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base, the base including a retaining shoulder within each terminal cavity, the connector housing extending between a mating end and a cable end, the mating end being configured to mate with a mating electrical connector; as well as Terminals are received in corresponding terminal cavities, each terminal including a locking lance that engages a corresponding retaining terminal to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity, each terminal including a body extending between a front portion and a rear portion, the terminal including a socket at the front portion, the socket being configured to receive a pin terminal of the mating electrical connector, the terminal including a plurality of mating beams extending into the socket to be electrically connected to the pin terminals.

26. The electrical connector system of claim 25, wherein: The mating beams are angularly offset and have uniform spacing therebetween.

27. The electrical connector system of claim 25, wherein: The terminal includes a centering tab proximate the front of the body, the centering tab being angularly offset from the mating beam, the centering tab being configured to position the pin to coincide with the socket.

28. The electrical connector system of claim 25, wherein: The centering projection is located in front of the mating interface of the mating beam, so that the centering projection is in abutment with the pin before the mating beam is in abutment with the pin during mating.

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