System for attaching a connector to a conductor

Abstract

A system for attaching a connector to a conductor may include a tab assembly and a terminal. A joint assembly may be connected to the conductor and releasably connected to the connector. The terminal may be disposed in and connected to the tab assembly. A terminal may be connected to the conductor such that the terminal protrudes radially from the conductor. When a tab assembly is connected to the conductor and the connector, (i) the tab assembly may physically connect the conductor and the connector, and (ii) a terminal may engage a connector conductor of the connector, thereby electrically connecting the conductor and the connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to systems for attaching a connector to a conductor, such as an aluminum power conductor, which may be utilized in conjunction with and / or incorporated into a vehicle, for example. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003] While the claims are not limited to specific illustrations, an understanding of the various aspects can be obtained through discussion of the various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or hidden to better illustrate and explain the innovative aspects of the examples. Additionally, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the exact forms and configurations shown in the drawings or disclosed in the following detailed description. The exemplary illustrations are described in detail below with reference to the drawings:

[0004] Figure 1 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 2 is a perspective view generally illustrating another embodiment of a system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 3 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a conductor in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 4 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a plurality of terminals connected to a conductor in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figures 5 - 7 is a perspective view generally illustrating the use of Figure 1 a system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure to attach a connector to a conductor.

[0009] Figure 8 and Figure 9 are an exploded view and a perspective view, respectively, generally illustrating another embodiment of a terminal in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 10 and Figure 11 are a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a method of attaching Figure 8 and Figure 9 terminals to a conductor in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figures 12 - 15 is a perspective view generally illustrating the use of Figure 2 a system in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure to attach a connector to a conductor.

[0012] Figure 16 is a side cross-sectional view of a system generally illustrating teachings in accordance with the present disclosure Figure 2 .

[0013] Figure 17 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a system generally illustrating teachings in accordance with the present disclosure DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various described embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments

[0016] Referring Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a system 10 is depicted for attaching (e.g., in a non-parallel manner) an electrical connector 20 to a conductor 100. The system 10 includes one or more terminals 200 and one or more header assemblies 300 (e.g., see Figure 5 and Figure 12 ). Optionally, the system 10 may include the conductor 100 and / or the connector 20. The terminals 200 and the header assemblies 300 are each connected, attached, secured, and / or mounted to one or more portions of the conductor 100. The header assembly 300 receives and holds at least a portion of the conductor 100 and the terminals 200 (e.g., see Figure 5 and Figure 12 ). The header assembly 300 engages and releasably connects to the connector 20, thereby securing, attaching, and / or connecting the connector 20 to the conductor 100 (e.g., see Figures 5 - 7 and Figures 12 - 15 ). When the connector 20 is attached to the header assembly 300, the terminals 200 contact connector conductors 22 that are attached to the connector 20 and are at least partially disposed within the connector 20, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the conductor 100 and the connector 20

[0017] As Figure 3As generally illustrated, conductor 100 is a fluid-cooled aluminum electrical conductor. Alternatively, conductor 100 may not be fluid-cooled (e.g., may not be a fluid-cooled conductor) and / or may be another type of conductor (e.g., a copper conductor). Conductor 100 includes a conductor body 102, one or more internal insulators 110, 110' (e.g., XLPE insulators), one or more shields 120, 120', one or more external insulators 130, 130', 130'' and / or one or more protectors 140, 140'.

[0018] As Figure 3 As generally illustrated, conductor 100 includes a conductor body 102. The conductor body 102 is an elongated hollow and / or tubular aluminum body that serves as a conduit for a fluid F (e.g., a coolant) to, for example, cool the conductor 100 and / or one or more components coupled to the aluminum body. The conductor body 102 defines a fluid passageway 104 through which the fluid F can flow. Alternatively, the conductor body 102 may be a solid aluminum body (e.g., a solid aluminum core) that does not have a fluid passing therethrough and does not define a fluid passageway 104. The conductor body 102 and the fluid passageway 104 generally have a circular cross-sectional shape (e.g., in a plane extending radially), but may have other cross-sectional shapes in other embodiments. The conductor body 102 includes exposed regions 102A, sections, and / or portions that are not covered by the internal insulators 110, 110', shields 120, 120' or external insulators 130, 130', 130''. The exposed region 102A of the conductor body 102 is a longitudinal region, section, and / or portion of the conductor body 102 that is disposed between a first protector 140 (e.g., a first internal insulator 110, a first shield 120, and / or a first external insulator 130) and a second protector 140' (e.g., a second internal insulator 110', a second shield 120', a second external insulator 130', and / or a third external insulator 130''). Alternatively, in other embodiments, the exposed region 102A may have one or more configurations. For example, the exposed region 102A may be a region, section, and / or portion of the conductor body 102 that is exposed and / or accessible via one or more recesses (e.g., windows) disposed in and / or defined by one or more protectors 140, 140', internal insulators 110, 110', shields 120, 120' and / or external insulators 130, 130', 130''.

[0019] As Figure 3As generally illustrated, conductor 100 includes one or more internal insulators 110, 110' (e.g., a first internal insulator 110 and a second internal insulator 110'), and the one or more internal insulators 110, 110' protect and / or electrically insulate one or more parts, sections, and / or regions of the conductor body 102. The internal insulators 110, 110' are composed of and / or include a polymer (such as cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE)), but in other embodiments may be composed of and / or include one or more other suitable materials. The internal insulators 110, 110' are disposed on the conductor body 102 (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the conductor body 102) and are connected to the conductor body 102 (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the conductor body 102). The internal insulators 110, 110' extend circumferentially around the conductor body 102 and longitudinally along at least a part, section, and / or region of the conductor body 102. Each of the internal insulators 110, 110' has a tubular shape and circumferentially surrounds (e.g., completely) at least a longitudinal part, section, and / or region of the conductor body 102.

[0020] As Figure 3 As generally illustrated, conductor 100 includes one or more shields 120, 120' (e.g., a first shield 120 and a second shield 120'), and the one or more shields 120, 120' protect the conductor body 102 and / or one or more parts, sections, and / or regions of the one or more internal insulators 110, 110' from, for example, electrostatic interference, electromagnetic interference, and / or electric field interference. Each of the shields 120, 120' is configured as a braided sleeve (e.g., a metal braided sleeve and / or a non-metal braided sleeve) and is composed of and / or includes aluminum, but in other embodiments may have one or more other suitable configurations. The shields 120, 120' are disposed on the one or more internal insulators 110, 110' (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the one or more internal insulators 110, 110') and are connected to the one or more internal insulators 110, 110' (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the one or more internal insulators 110, 110'), which may connect the shields 120, 120' to the conductor body 102. The shields 120, 120' extend circumferentially around the conductor body 102 and the one or more internal insulators 110, 110', and longitudinally along at least a part, section, and / or region of the conductor body 102 and / or at least a part, section, and / or region of the one or more internal insulators 110, 110'.

[0021] As Figure 3As generally illustrated, conductor 100 includes one or more outer insulators 130, 130', 130" (e.g., a first outer insulator 130, a second outer insulator 130', and a third outer insulator 130"), the one or more outer insulators 130, 130', 130" protecting and / or electrically insulating one or more portions, sections, and / or regions of conductor body 102, one or more portions, sections, and / or regions of one or more inner insulators 110, 110', and / or one or more portions, sections, and / or regions of one or more shields 120, 120'. The outer insulators 130, 130', 130" are made of and / or include a polymer, but in other embodiments may be made of and / or include one or more other suitable materials. The outer insulators 130, 130', 130" are disposed on and connected to one or more shields 120, 120' (e.g., the outer circumferential surfaces of the one or more shields 120, 120'), which may connect the outer insulators 130, 130', 130" to conductor body 102. The outer insulators 130, 130', 130" extend circumferentially around conductor body 102, one or more inner insulators 110, 110', and / or one or more shields 120, 120'. The outer insulators 130, 130', 130" extend longitudinally along at least a portion, section, and / or region of conductor body 102, at least a portion, section, and / or region of one or more inner insulators 110, 110', and / or at least a portion, section, and / or region of one or more shields 120, 120'. One or more of the outer insulators 130, 130', 130" may be configured as a collar and / or may be disposed at or around the longitudinal ends of one or more shields 120, 120'.

[0022] As Figure 3As generally illustrated, conductor 100 includes one or more protectors 140, 140' (e.g., a first protector 140 and a second protector 140'). Each protector 140, 140' is defined by and / or includes one or more internal insulators 110, 110', one or more shields 120, 120' and / or one or more external insulators 130, 130', 130''. The first protector 140 is defined by and / or includes a first internal insulator 110, a first shield 120 and a first external insulator 130. The second protector 140' is defined by and / or includes a second internal insulator 110', a second shield 120', a second external insulator 130' and a third external insulator 130''. The first protector 140 and the second protector 140' are disposed on the conductor body 102 spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the conductor body 102 such that a part, section and / or region (e.g., an exposed region 102A) of the conductor body 102 is exposed and / or not covered by the protectors 140, 140'.

[0023] As Figure 3As schematically illustrated, a first internal insulator 110 and a second internal insulator 110' are disposed spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the conductor body 102 such that a region, section, and / or portion of the conductor body 102 (e.g., the exposed region 102A) is exposed and / or not covered by the internal insulators 110, 110'. A first shield 120 is disposed on the first internal insulator 110 (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the first internal insulator 110) and connected to the first internal insulator 110 (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the first internal insulator 110). The first shield 120 is disposed adjacent to the exposed region 102A of the conductor body 102. The end of the first shield 120 is disposed at or around the end of the first internal insulator 110 (e.g., aligned with the end of the first internal insulator 110), and this end of the first internal insulator 110 is disposed adjacent to and / or bordering the exposed region 102A of the conductor body 102. A first external insulator 130 is disposed on the first shield 120 (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the first shield 120) and connected to the first shield 120 (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the first shield 120). The first external insulator 130 is disposed adjacent to the exposed region 102A of the conductor body 102. The end of the first external insulator 130 is disposed at or around the end of the first internal insulator 110 (e.g., aligned with the end of the first internal insulator 110) and / or at or around the end of the first shield 120 (e.g., aligned with the end of the first shield 120). The first internal insulator 110, the first shield 120, and the first external insulator 130 define and / or form a first protector 140. A second shield 120' is disposed on the second internal insulator 110' (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the second internal insulator 110') and connected to the second internal insulator 110' (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the second internal insulator 110'). The second shield 120' is disposed adjacent to the exposed region 102A of the conductor body 102. The end of the second shield 120' is disposed at or around the end of the second internal insulator 110' (e.g., aligned with the end of the second internal insulator 110'), and the end of the second internal insulator 110' is disposed adjacent to and / or bordering the exposed region 102A of the conductor body 102. A second external insulator 130' and a third external insulator 130'' are disposed on the second shield 120' (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the second shield 120') and connected to the second shield 120' (e.g., the outer circumferential surface of the second shield 120'). The second external insulator 130' and the third external insulator 130'' are disposed spaced apart from each other on the second shield 120' in the longitudinal direction of the conductor body 102 and / or in the longitudinal direction of the second shield 120'.The second outer insulator 130' is disposed adjacent to the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102. The end of the second outer insulator 130' is disposed at or around the end of the second inner insulator 110' (e.g., aligned with the end of the second inner insulator 110') and / or at or around the end of the second shield 120' (e.g., aligned with the end of the second shield 120'). The second inner insulator 110', the second shield 120', the second outer insulator 130' and the third outer insulator 130'' define and / or form the second protector 140'.

[0024] As Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figures 8 - 11 generally illustrated in, system 10 includes one or more terminals 200, 200' configured to electrically connect the conductor 100 and the connector 20. One or more terminals 200 (e.g., the first terminal / conductor body terminals 200A, 200B) are disposed on the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102 and are connected (e.g., physically and electrically) to the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102. Optionally, an embodiment of system 10 may further include one or more terminals 200 (e.g., the second terminal / shield terminal 200'), which are disposed on one or more shields 120, 120' (e.g., the second shield 120') and are connected (e.g., physically and electrically) to the one or more shields 120, 120' (e.g., the second shield 120'), as Figure 4 and Figure 5 illustrated in. One or more terminals 200 may be configured to be substantially similar and / or different from one or more other terminals 200. One or more terminals 200 and / or at least a portion of one or more terminals (e.g., blades 210, 234) project and / or extend laterally (e.g., vertically or obliquely) and / or substantially radially from the conductor 100.

[0025] According to an embodiment, such as in Figure 4In the embodiment generally illustrated, one or more terminals 200A are configured as an elongated body made of and / or including one or more materials. For example, the elongated body can be a blade 210 (e.g., a bimetallic blade) made of and / or including two different metals. The blade 210 extends laterally (e.g., vertically or obliquely) with respect to the conductor 100 and projects laterally and / or radially from the conductor 100. The blade 210 includes a first portion 212 and a second portion 214. The first portion 212 and the second portion 214 can be separate bodies that are connected to each other to form the blade 210 and / or the terminal 200A. Alternatively, the first portion 212 and the second portion 214 can be regions and / or sections of a monolithic body that defines the blade 210 and / or the terminal 200A. The first portion 212 is made of and / or includes aluminum. The first portion 212 is connected (e.g., laser welded and / or via laser welding) to the conductor 100, such as to an exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102. The end of the first portion 212 opposite the conductor 100 is connected to the second portion 214 of the blade 210. The second portion 214 is made of and / or includes copper. The second portion 214 forms and / or defines the free end of the blade 210 and is configured to engage and / or contact the connector conductor 22 to electrically connect the conductor 100 and the connector 20. The free end and / or the second portion 214 of the blade 210 is tapered to facilitate insertion into the connector 20 during engagement of the joint assembly 300 and the connector 20. The second terminals 200', 200A' include blades 210', first portions 212', and second portions 214' that are configured to be substantially similar to the corresponding features of the first terminal 200A. The first portion 212' of the second terminal 200' is connected (e.g., laser welded and / or via laser welding) to the second shield 120'.

[0026] According to an embodiment, such as in Figure 8 and Figure 9In the embodiment generally illustrated, terminal 200B includes a receptacle 220, a base 230, a cover 250, one or more biasing bodies 270, 270' and one or more connections 222, 224. The base 230, the cover 250 and the biasing bodies 270, 270' are made of and / or include copper, but may be made of and / or include one or more other suitable materials. The base 230 and the cover 250 are disposed on and connected to each other via one or more connections (e.g., a first connection 222, a second connection 224). The receptacle 220 is defined by one or more portions of the base 230 (e.g., a U-shaped body 232) and one or more portions of the cover 250 (e.g., a U-shaped body 252) and is located between one or more portions of the base 230 (e.g., the U-shaped body 232) and one or more portions of the cover 250 (e.g., the U-shaped body 252). The receptacle 220 is configured to receive and / or hold at least a portion of the conductor 100 (e.g., an exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102).

[0027] As Figure 8 and Figure 9 Generally illustrated in, the base 230 includes a generally U-shaped body 232, blades 234 and a protrusion 236. The blades 234 and the protrusion 236 are connected to opposite sides / ends of the U-shaped body 232 and project from the opposite sides / ends of the U-shaped body 232 in opposite directions (e.g., generally radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle 220 and / or the conductor 100). The protrusion 236 includes and / or defines a recess 238 that is configured to engage and / or receive a portion of the cover 250 (e.g., a flange 256). The blades 234 extend and / or project laterally (e.g., perpendicularly or obliquely) and / or radially with respect to the conductor 100. The free ends of the blades 234 are tapered to facilitate insertion into the connector 20 during engagement of the joint assembly 300 and the connector 20.

[0028] As Figure 8 and Figure 9As generally illustrated, cover 250 includes a generally U-shaped body 252, a projection 254, and a flange 256. The projection 254 and the flange 256 are connected to opposite sides / ends of the U-shaped body 252 and project from the opposite sides / ends of the U-shaped body 252 in opposite directions (e.g., generally radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity 220). The flange 256 is curved and / or generally S-shaped (e.g., defining an S-shape in a radial extension plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receiving cavity 220 and / or the conductor 100). The width of the flange 256 (e.g., in the longitudinal direction of the receiving cavity 220 and / or the conductor 100) is equal to and / or less than the width of the U-shaped body 252 of the cover 250 and the width of the protrusion 236 of the base 230. The flange 256 can be inserted into the recess 238 of the base 230 to establish a first connection portion 222 that at least to some extent connects the cover 250 and the base 230 to each other. Before establishing the second connection portion 224, when the flange 256 is disposed in the recess 238 (e.g., when establishing the first connection portion 222), the flange 256 is adjustable / movable within the recess 238 such that the cover 250 and / or the base 230 can move relative to each other to open / close the terminal 200B and / or the receiving cavity 220.

[0029] As Figure 8 and Figure 9 As generally illustrated, biasing bodies 270, 270' (e.g., a first biasing body 270 and a second biasing body 270') are disposed in the receiving cavity 220 and engage, contact, and / or abut an exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102 to establish an electrical connection between the conductor 100, the terminal 200B, and / or the connector 20. Each of the biasing bodies 270, 270' includes a support frame 272, 272' and one or more spring bars 274, 274' that are connected to and supported by the support frames 272, 272'. The biasing bodies 270, 270' and / or the support frames 272, 272' have and / or form a semi-circular shape and / or a tube segment shape. The spring bars 274, 274' extend in the longitudinal direction of the receiving cavity 220 and / or the conductor 100 and / or extend generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the receiving cavity 220 and / or the conductor 100 between two (e.g., axial) ends of the support frames 272, 272' and / or between two opposing support members. Each of the spring bars 274, 274' includes at least a portion and / or a section that is arcuate. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the biasing bodies 270, 270', the support frames 272, 272', and / or the spring bars 274, 274' can have one or more other suitable configurations.

[0030] The first biasing body 270 is disposed on the U-shaped body 232 of the base 230 and is connected to the U-shaped body 232 of the base 230 (e.g., via one or more welds 276 between the support frame 272 and the U-shaped body 232). The second biasing body 270' is disposed on the U-shaped body 252 of the cover 250 and is connected to the U-shaped body 252 of the cover 250 (e.g., via one or more welds 276' between the support frame 272' and the U-shaped body 252). When the terminal 200B is disposed on the conductor 100 and / or the exposed area 102A of the conductor 100 is disposed in the receiving cavity 220 of the terminal 200B, the biasing bodies 270, 270' engage, contact, and / or abut the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102 via the spring bars 274, 274'. One or more of the spring bars 274, 274' can be compressed and / or deformed (e.g., elastically) via the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102, which can bias one or more of the spring bars 274, 274' against the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102 and increase and / or enhance the stability of the electrical connection between the conductor 100, the terminal 200B, and / or the connector 20.

[0031] As Figure 8 and Figure 9 Substantially as illustrated, the first connection portion 222 is defined and / or formed by one or more portions of the base 230 (e.g., the protrusion 236) and the cover 250 (e.g., the flange 256) that engage each other. The first connection portion 222 releasably and adjustably connects the cover 250 and the base 230 to each other at least to some extent. The second connection portion 224 is a weld between one or more portions of the base 230 (e.g., the blade 234) and the cover 250 (e.g., the protrusion 254) and / or one or more portions that connect the base 230 (e.g., the blade 234) and the cover 250 (e.g., the protrusion 254). One or more of the connection portions 222, 224 can alternatively be configured as a hinge, a weld, a fastener, or a rivet, as well as other suitable configurations. When the cover 250 and the base 230 are connected by the first connection portion 222 and not connected by the second connection portion 224 (e.g., before the second connection portion 224 is established), the cover 250 and / or the base 230 are adjustable and / or movable relative to each other such that (i) the base 230 and the cover 250 are detachable and / or separable, and (ii) the terminal 200B and / or the receiving cavity 220 are openable and closable. Once the second connection portion 224 is established and / or provided, the first connection portion 222 and the second connection portion 224 connect (e.g., fix) the base 230 and the cover 250 together such that relative movement between the cover 250 and the base 230 is constrained, limited, and / or prevented, and effectively prevents the opening of the terminal 200B and / or the receiving cavity 220.

[0032] Figure 10 and Figure 11 Figure 11 generally illustrates a method of attaching terminal 200B to conductor 100. To attach and / or connect conductor 100 and terminal 200B, flange 256 of cover 250 is inserted into recess 238 of base 230 to establish first connection portion 222, which initially (e.g., before providing second connection portion 224) releasably and adjustably connects base 230 and cover 250 to each other. Optionally, then, cover 250 and / or base 230 are moved relative to each other to fully open terminal 200B and / or receiving cavity 220 (e.g., if not already fully open), and terminal 200B is disposed on exposed area 102A of conductor body 102 and / or exposed area 102A of conductor body 102 is inserted into receiving cavity 220. Alternatively, before establishing first connection portion 222, cover 250 and / or base 230 may be disposed on exposed area 102A of conductor body 102. Then, cover 250 and / or base 230 are moved relative to each other to close terminal 200B and / or receiving cavity 220 and bring exposed area 102A of conductor body 102 into contact with biasing bodies 270, 270' (e.g., spring bars 274, 274' of biasing bodies 270, 270'), which in turn electrically connects conductor 100 and terminal 200B. When conductor body 102 is disposed in receiving cavity 220 and terminal 200B and / or receiving cavity 220 are closed, (i) projection 254 of cover 250 is disposed on, in contact with, and / or adjacent to blade 234 of base 230, (ii) flange 256 extends completely through recess 238 of projection 236 to the opposite side of projection 236 and / or base 230, and the free end of flange 256 contacts, abuts, and / or bears against the surface of projection 236 and / or base 230 facing away from cover 250, and (iii) biasing bodies 270, 270' (e.g., one or more of spring bars 274, 274' of biasing bodies 270, 270') are pressed against and / or biased against exposed area 102A of conductor body 102 and can thus be at least partially (e.g., elastically and / or resiliently) deformed. Subsequently, projection 254 of cover 250 and blade 234 of base 230 are connected, attached, and / or fixed to each other via second connection portion 224 (e.g., by laser welding projection 254 and blade 234 together), as Figure 11 generally illustrated in, such that terminal 200B and conductor 100 are connected, attached, and / or fixed to each other via first connection portion 222 and second connection portion 224.

[0033] as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 5 - 7 and Figures 12 - 17As generally illustrated, system 10 includes one or more adapter assemblies 300 (e.g., adapter assembly 300A and / or adapter assembly 300B), which are configured to physically connect conductor 100 and connector 20 and facilitate electrical connection of conductor 100 and connector 20 (e.g., by aligning blades 210, 234 of terminal 200 with connector conductor 22 when connecting conductor 100 and connector 20). Adapter assembly 300 is configured to receive, hold, and / or accommodate at least a portion of conductor 100 (e.g., exposed area 102A of conductor body 102), at least a portion of terminal 200, and at least a portion of connector 20. In other words, at least a portion of conductor 100 (e.g., exposed area 102A of conductor body 102), at least a portion of terminal 200, and at least a portion of connector 20 are disposed within adapter assembly 300. Adapter assembly 300 is disposed on, connected to, and / or mounted on conductor 100 (e.g., exposed area 102A of conductor body 102). Adapter assembly 300 extends at least partially circumferentially around at least a portion of conductor 100 (e.g., exposed area 102A of conductor body 102). Adapter assembly 300 includes adapters 310 (e.g., adapter 310A and / or adapter 310B) and caps 360 (e.g., cap 360A and / or cap 360B) that can be connected to each other.

[0034] As Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figures 5 - 7 and Figures 12 - 17 As generally illustrated, adapter 310 is configured to receive and / or hold at least a portion of conductor 100 (e.g., exposed area 102A of conductor body 102), at least a portion of terminal 200, and at least a portion of connector 20.

[0035] As Figure 5 and Figure 12As generally illustrated, the connector 310 includes a support 312 that engages the conductor 100 and to which the connector 310 is connected via the support 312. The connector 310 and / or the support 312 includes and / or defines a depression 314 (e.g., an opening, a recess, a hole, an orifice, etc.) that is configured to receive and / or hold at least a portion of the conductor 100 (e.g., the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102) and at least a portion of the terminal 200. The support 312 includes one or more support surfaces 316 (e.g., connector support surfaces), and at least some of the support surfaces at least partially define the depression 314. When disposed within the connector assembly 300, the connector 310, and / or the depression 314, at least a portion of the conductor 100 and / or at least a portion of the terminal 200 may rest on and / or be supported by one or more of the support surfaces 316. The length of the support 312 and / or the depression 314 (e.g., generally in the longitudinal direction of the conductor 100) substantially corresponds to (e.g., is equal to) the length of the exposed area 102A of the conductor 100 and / or the length of the cap 360 (e.g., see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 13 - 15 ). Thus, when the exposed area 102A of the conductor 100 is disposed within the depression 314, the connector 310 and / or the support 312 extends between and may contact a first protector 140 (e.g., a first inner insulator 110, a first shield 120, and a first outer insulator 130) and a second protector 140' (e.g., a second inner insulator 110', a second shield 120', and a second outer insulator 130').

[0036] In some embodiments, such as the embodiment generally depicted in Figure 16 , one or more support surfaces 316 (e.g., support surface 316B) of the support 312 contact and support at least a portion of the cover 250 (e.g., the U-shaped body 252, the protrusion 254, and / or the flange 256) of the terminal 200B, but do not contact and / or directly support the body 230 of the terminal 200B. In other embodiments, such as in Figure 17In the embodiment generally depicted, one or more support surfaces 316 (e.g., support surface 316B) of the support member 312 may include a stepped configuration that contacts and supports at least a portion of the cover 250 (e.g., the U-shaped body 252, the protrusion 254, and / or the flange 256) and at least a portion of the body 230 of the terminal 200B (e.g., the protrusion 236).

[0037] As Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 5 - 7 and Figures 12 - 17 generally illustrated in, the joint 310 includes an adapter 330 that engages the connector 20, and the joint 310 and the joint assembly 300 are physically connected to the connector 20 via the adapter 330. The adapter 330 is connected to the support member 312 (e.g., integrally formed with the support member 312) and projects laterally (e.g., vertically or obliquely) and / or radially from the support member 312 with respect to the conductor 100. The adapter 330 defines an internal space 332 that is configured to receive at least a portion of the terminal 200 (e.g., at least a portion of the blades 210, 234) and at least a portion of the connector 20. The adapter 330 can be connected to the connector 20 via the engagement of a fastener formation 334 of the adapter 330 and a complementary fastener structure 24 of the connector 20, which secures the connector 20 within the internal space 332 and attaches the connector 20 to the joint 310, the joint assembly 300, and / or the conductor 100 (e.g., see Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 ).

[0038] As Figure 16 and Figure 17 generally illustrated in, the recess 314 of the support member 312 and the internal space 332 of the adapter 330 are connected to each other via a channel 340 defined by the joint 310 and / or one or more portions of the joint 310. When the terminal 200 is disposed within the joint assembly 300, the joint 310, and / or the recess 314, the blade portions 210, 234 of the terminal 200 are partially disposed within the channel 340, extend through the channel 340, and project from the channel 340 into the internal space 332 of the adapter 330 such that the blades 210, 234 can be engaged with and / or contacted by the connector conductors 22.

[0039] As Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 5 - 7 and Figures 12 - 17As generally illustrated, the cap 360 may be connected to and / or fixed to the connector 310 (e.g., connected and / or fixed to the support 312 and / or the adapter 330) to at least partially enclose and / or cover the recess 314, thereby fixing the conductor 100 and the terminal 200 in the recess 314 of the support 312. This in turn connects and / or attaches the connector 310 and / or the connector assembly 300 to the conductor 100 and the terminal 200. The cap 360 may be at least partially disposed within the connector 310 and / or at least partially disposed outside the connector 310. Additionally and / or alternatively, the cap 360 may be releasably connected to the connector 310 or non-releasably connected to the connector 310. For example, in Figure 1 and Figures 5 - 7 the embodiment generally illustrated, the cap 360A is disposed (e.g., completely) outside the connector 310A and is releasably connected to the connector 310A. In other embodiments, such as in Figure 2 and Figures 12 - 17 the embodiment generally illustrated, the cap 360B is disposed (e.g., completely) within the connector 310B and is non-releasably connected to the connector 310B (e.g., via potting material 322). When connected to the connector 310, the cap 360 at least partially encloses the recess 314. The cap 360 includes one or more support surfaces 362 (e.g., cap support surfaces) that, when the cap 360 is connected to the connector 310, may contact and / or rest on at least a portion of the conductor 100 and / or at least a portion of the terminal 200 (e.g., see Figure 5 and Figure 12 ), which may support, fix, and / or stabilize the conductor 100 in the recess 314. The length of the cap 360 (e.g., generally in the longitudinal direction of the conductor 100) substantially corresponds to (e.g., is equal to) the length of the exposed region 102A of the conductor 100 and / or the length of the support 312 (e.g., see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 13 - 15)。Thus, when the connector assembly 300 is disposed on and / or attached to the conductor 100, the connector assembly 300, the connector 310, the support 312, and / or the cap 360 extend between the first protector 140 (e.g., the first inner insulator 110, the first shield 120, and the first outer insulator 130) and the second protector 140' (e.g., the second inner insulator 110', the second shield 120', and the second outer insulator 130') and may contact the first protector 140 (e.g., the first inner insulator 110, the first shield 120, and the first outer insulator 130) and the second protector 140' (e.g., the second inner insulator 110', the second shield 120', and the second outer insulator 130').

[0040] Figures 5 - 7 Generally illustrates a method of attaching the connector 20 to the conductor 100 using and / or utilizing a system 10 including the terminal 200A and the connector assembly 300A (such as Figure 1 system 10). As Figure 5 shown, the connector assembly 300A is connected, attached, and / or mounted to the conductor 100 and / or the terminal 200A. To connect the connector assembly 300A to the conductor 100 and / or the terminal 200A, the exposed area 102A of the conductor 100 is disposed in the recess 314 such that the blade 210 of the terminal 200A projects through the channel 340 into the internal space 332 of the adapter 330. Then, the cap 360A is disposed on the connector 310A and adjusted to at least partially enclose and / or cover the recess 314 and engage the latching formation 364 (e.g., a recess and / or a depression) of the cap 360A and the complementary latching structure 318 (e.g., a latching nose and / or a protrusion disposed on the adapter 330) of the connector 310A, which releasably connects the cap 360A and the connector 310A, as Figure 1 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 generally shown in. In this way, the cap 360A fixes the conductor 100 and the terminal 200A in the recess 314 of the support 312 and connects the connector 310A and / or the connector assembly 300A to the conductor 100 and the terminal 200A. Then, at least a portion of the connector 20 and / or the connector conductor 22 is inserted into the internal space 332 of the adapter 330 (e.g., in a lateral and / or radial direction relative to the conductor 100), as Figure 6 generally shown in, so that the fastener structure 24 of the connector 20 engages the complementary fastener structure 334 of the connector assembly 300A and the connector conductor 22 engages the terminal 200A. The engagement of the fastener structures 24, 334 releasably connects the connector 20 to the connector assembly 300A, as Figure 7As depicted, this physically connects the connector 20 to the conductor 100. The engagement of the connector conductor 22 with the terminal 200A electrically connects the connector 20 to the conductor 100.

[0041] Figures 12 - 15 Generally illustrated is a method of attaching the connector 20 to the conductor 100 using and / or utilizing a system 10 including a terminal 200B and a joint assembly 300B (such as Figure 2 the system). As Figure 12 shown, the joint assembly 300B is connected, attached, and / or mounted to the conductor 100 and / or the terminal 200B.

[0042] To connect the joint assembly 300 to the conductor 100 and / or the terminal 200B, an exposed area 102A of the conductor 100 is disposed in a recess 314 and contacts (e.g., rests on) one or more support surfaces 316 (e.g., support surface 316A) of a support 312 such that the terminal 200B (e.g., cap 250, U-shaped body 252, protrusion 254, flange 256, base 230, and / or projection 236) contacts and / or rests on one or more support surfaces 316 (e.g., support surface 316B) of the support 312, and a blade 234 of the terminal 200B projects through a channel 340 into an internal space 332 of an adapter 330. A cap 360B (e.g., generally in a radial direction of the conductor 100) is inserted into a chamber 320 of the support 312, the chamber 320 opening in the same direction as the recess 314, such that the cap 360B is disposed within (e.g., fully disposed within) the support 312 and / or the joint 310B and partially encloses the recess 314, the chamber 320, and / or the support 312, as Figure 13 generally shown. In this way, the cap 360B fixes the conductor 100 and the terminal 200B in the recess 314 of the support 312 and connects the joint 310B and / or the joint assembly 300B to the conductor 100 and the terminal 200B. Then a potting material 322 is disposed in the recess 314, the chamber 320, and / or the channel 340, such as by conveying and / or injecting the potting material 322 through an orifice 366 in the cap 360B, as Figure 13 generally depicted. The potting material 322 may substantially fill the entire remaining space within the recess 314, the chamber 320, the channel 340, and / or the orifice 366, as Figure 16 and Figure 17is generally illustrated. The potting material 322 contacts and / or adheres to the conductor 100 (e.g., the exposed area 102A of the conductor body 102), the terminal 200B, the adapter 310B (e.g., the support 312 and / or the adapter 330), and / or the cap 360B to non - releasably connect (i) the adapter 310B and the cap 360B, and (ii) the conductor 100, the terminal 200B, and the adapter assembly 300B. The potting material 322 also restrains, limits, and / or prevents galvanic corrosion between the conductor 100 (e.g., the conductor body 102) and the terminal 200B within the adapter assembly 300B. Then, at least a portion of the connector 20 and / or the connector conductor 22 is inserted into the internal space 332 of the adapter 330 (e.g., in a lateral and / or radial direction relative to the conductor 100), as Figure 14 generally shown in, so that the fastener structure 24 of the connector 20 engages with the complementary fastener structure 334 of the adapter assembly 300B, and the connector conductor 22 engages with the terminal 200B. The engagement of the fastener structures 24, 334 releasably connects the connector 20 to the adapter assembly 300B, as Figure 15 depicted in, which physically connects the connector 20 to the conductor 100. The engagement of the connector conductor 22 with the terminal 200B electrically connects the connector 20 to the conductor 100.

[0043] While embodiments are generally illustrated as the system 10 including a single first terminal 200, a single second terminal 200', and / or a single adapter assembly 300, embodiments of the system 10 may include a plurality of first terminals 200, a plurality of second terminals 200', and / or a plurality of adapter assemblies 300. Similarly, while embodiments are generally illustrated as the system 10 including a single terminal configuration 200A, 200B and a single adapter assembly configuration 300A, 300B, embodiments of the system 10 may include a plurality of terminals 200, 200' having different configurations and / or a plurality of adapter assemblies 300 having different configurations, which may be used together with each other in various different combinations. For example, the system 10 may include a conductor 100, a terminal 200A at least partially disposed in the adapter assembly 300A, a terminal 200B at least partially disposed in the adapter assembly 300B, another terminal 200A at least partially disposed in another adapter assembly 300B, and another terminal 200B at least partially disposed in another adapter assembly 300A. Additionally and / or alternatively, the adapter assemblies 300, 300A, 300B may be used in combination with the second terminal 200' in a manner similar to the above - described first terminals 200, 200A, 200B.

[0044] The present disclosure includes but is not limited to the following embodiments:

[0045] 1. A system for attaching an electrical connector to a conductor, comprising: a connector assembly that can be connected to the conductor and can be releasably connected to the connector; a terminal disposed in the connector assembly and connected to the connector assembly, the terminal being capable of connecting to the conductor such that the terminal projects radially from the conductor; wherein when the connector assembly is connected to the conductor and the connector, (i) the connector assembly physically connects the connector and the conductor, and (ii) the terminal engages a connector conductor of the connector, thereby electrically connecting the conductor and the connector.

[0046] 2. The system according to embodiment 1, wherein the connector assembly includes a connector and a cap; the connector includes a recess that houses at least a portion of the terminal and at least a portion of the conductor; the cap can be connected to the connector, and when connected to the connector, the cap at least partially encloses the recess; and the connector assembly can be connected to the conductor by connecting the cap to the connector.

[0047] 3. The system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the connector includes: a support member via which the connector can be connected to the conductor; and an adapter via which the connector can be connected to the connector.

[0048] 4. The system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the support member defines the recess; and the adapter is connected to the support member and projects laterally from the support member relative to the conductor.

[0049] 5. The system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support member includes a support surface that at least partially defines the recess and supports at least a portion of the conductor.

[0050] 6. The system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the cap includes a support surface, at least one of which contacts and rests on at least a portion of the conductor.

[0051] 7. The system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adapter defines an internal space that houses at least a portion of the connector.

[0052] 8. The system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the connector includes a channel that connects the recess of the connector and the internal space of the adapter; and the terminal is at least partially disposed in the channel and projects from the channel into the internal space of the adapter.

[0053] 9. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the adapter includes a fastener structure; and the joint assembly is connected to the connector via the engagement of the fastener structure and a complementary fastener structure of the connector.

[0054] 10. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the cap includes a latch structure; the joint includes a complementary latch structure; and the cap can be releasably connected to the joint via the engagement of the latch structure of the cap and the complementary latch structure of the joint.

[0055] 11. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the terminal includes a blade extending transversely to the conductor; and the blade includes a first portion made of aluminum and a second portion made of copper.

[0056] 12. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the terminal can be connected to the conductor by welding the first portion of the blade to the conductor; and the second portion of the blade is connected to the first portion of the blade and defines the free end of the blade.

[0057] 13. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the terminal includes: a base; a cover that can be connected to the base; and a receiving cavity defined by the cover and the base and between the cover and the base, the receiving cavity accommodating at least a portion of the conductor.

[0058] 14. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the base includes a protrusion defining a recess; the cover includes a flange that can be inserted into the recess; and a first connection portion at least partially connecting the base and the cover can be established by inserting the flange into the recess.

[0059] 15. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the base includes a blade; the cover includes a protrusion; and a second connection portion at least partially connecting the base and the cover can be established by connecting the protrusion and the blade.

[0060] 16. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein, before establishing the second connection portion, the flange can be adjusted within the recess such that the base and the cover can move relative to each other to open or close the receiving cavity.

[0061] 17. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the base includes a U-shaped body, a blade, and a protrusion, the blade and the protrusion are connected to opposite ends of the U-shaped body of the base and protrude from the opposite ends of the U-shaped body of the base; and the cover includes a U-shaped body, a protrusion, and a flange, the protrusion and the flange are connected to opposite ends of the U-shaped body of the cover and protrude from the opposite ends of the U-shaped body of the cover.

[0062] 18. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the terminal includes a plurality of biasing bodies, each biasing body includes a support frame and at least one spring rod, the at least one spring rod is connected to the support frame and supported by the support frame, and the at least one spring rod can be contacted via the conductor; a first biasing body among the plurality of biasing bodies is connected to the U-shaped body of the base; and a second biasing body among the plurality of biasing bodies is connected to the U-shaped body of the cover.

[0063] 19. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein: the connector defines the recess and the chamber; the recess and the chamber open in the same direction; and the cap can be disposed in the chamber, and when disposed in the chamber, the cap at least partially encloses the recess and the chamber.

[0064] 20. The system according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the cap includes an orifice through which potting material can be injected into at least one of the chamber and the recess to irreleasably connect (i) the connector and the cap and (ii) the connector assembly, the terminal, and the conductor.

[0065] Various examples / embodiments for various devices, systems, and / or methods are described herein. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples / embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the examples / embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the examples / embodiments described in this specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that the examples / embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be understood that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0066] References throughout this specification to "an example", "in an example", "according to an example", "various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment", etc., mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example / embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "an example", "in an example", "according to an example", "in various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment", etc., in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples / embodiments. Thus, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic shown or described in connection with one embodiment / example may be combined, without limitation, with the features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples, in whole or in part, so long as such combination is not illogical or non-functional. Additionally, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0067] It should be understood that a reference to a single element is not necessarily so limited, but may include one or more such elements. Any directional references (e.g., positive, negative, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are for identification purposes only to assist the reader in understanding the present disclosure and do not create a limitation, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the example / embodiment.

[0068] "One or more" includes functions performed by one element, functions performed by more than one element (e.g., in a distributed manner), several functions performed by one element, several functions performed by several elements, or any combination of the above.

[0069] It should also be understood that although in some instances the terms first, second, etc. are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first contact may be referred to as a second contact, and similarly, a second contact may be referred to as a first contact, without departing from the scope of the various embodiments described. Both the first element and the second element are elements, but they are not the same element.

[0070] The terms used in the description of the various embodiments described herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various described embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "includes", "including", "comprises", and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0071] References to couplings (e.g., attachments, couplings, connections, etc.) should be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between the connections of elements, relative movement between elements, direct connections, indirect connections, fixed connections, movable connections, operative connections, indirect contacts, and / or direct contacts. Thus, references to couplings do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected / coupled and in a fixed relationship to each other. Connections of electrical components (if any) may include mechanical connections, electrical connections, wired connections, and / or wireless connections, etc. The use of "for example" and "such as" in this specification should be construed broadly and are used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0072] Although processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in connection with one or more steps in a particular sequence, it should be understood that the methods may be practiced by performing the steps in a different order, by performing certain steps simultaneously, by additional steps, and / or by omitting certain described steps.

[0073] As used herein, the term "if" is optionally construed to mean "when" or "upon" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting", depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "if determined" or "if detected [the stated condition or event]" is optionally construed to mean "when determining" or "in response to determining" or "when detecting [the stated condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the stated condition or event]", depending on the context.

[0074] All content included in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be construed as illustrative only and not restrictive. Changes may be made in details or structure without departing from the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A system for attaching an electrical connector to a conductor, comprising: a connector assembly connectable to the conductor and releasably connectable to the connector; a terminal disposed in and connected to the joint assembly, the terminal being connectable to the conductor such that the terminal radially protrudes from the conductor; wherein, when the connector assembly is connected to the conductor and the connector, (i) the connector assembly physically connects the connector and the conductor, and (ii) the terminal engages the connector conductor of the connector, thereby electrically connecting the conductor and the connector.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: The joint assembly includes a joint and a cap; The connector includes a recess that receives at least a portion of the terminal and at least a portion of the conductor; The cap is connectable to the connector and when connected to the connector, the cap at least partially closes the recess; and The joint assembly is connectable to the conductor via connecting the cap to the joint.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The connector comprises: a support via which the connector can be connected to the conductor; and An adapter, the header can be connected to the connector via the adapter.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein: The support member defines the recess; and The adapter is connected to the support and protrudes from the support laterally with respect to the conductor.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The support includes a support surface that at least partially defines the recess and supports at least a portion of the conductor.

6. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The cap includes support surfaces, at least one of the support surfaces contacts and rests on at least a portion of the conductor.

7. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The adapter defines an interior space that accommodates at least a portion of the connector.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein: The connector includes a passage connecting the recess of the connector and the interior space of the adapter; and The terminal is at least partially disposed in the passage and protrudes from the passage into the interior space of the adapter.

9. The system of claim 3, wherein: The adapter includes a fastener structure; and The joint assembly is connectable to the connector via engagement of the fastener structure with a complementary fastener structure of the connector.

10. The system of claim 2, wherein: The cap includes a latch structure; The connector includes complementary latching structures; and The cap is releasably connectable to the connector via engagement of the latching structure of the cap with the complementary latching structure of the connector.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein: The terminal includes a blade extending transversely relative to the conductor; and The blade includes a first portion comprised of aluminum and a second portion comprised of copper.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein: The terminal is connectable to the conductor via welding the first portion of the blade to the conductor; and The second portion of the blade is connected to the first portion of the blade and defines a free end of the blade.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein: The terminal comprises: base; a cover connectable to the base; and A receiving cavity is defined by and located between the cover and the base, and receives at least a portion of the conductor.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein: The base includes a protrusion defining a recess; The cover includes a flange insertable into the recess; and A first connection at least partially connecting the base and the cover can be established via inserting the flange into the recess.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The base includes blades; The cover includes a protrusion; and A second connection at least partially connecting the base and the cover can be established via connecting the protrusion and the blade.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein: Before establishing the second connection, the flange is adjustable within the recess such that the base and the cover are movable relative to each other to open or close the receiving cavity.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein: The base includes a U-shaped body, blades, and protrusions, the blades and the protrusions being connected to and protruding from opposite ends of the U-shaped body of the base; and The cover includes a U-shaped body, a protrusion, and a flange connected to and protruding from opposite ends of the U-shaped body of the cover.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein: The terminal comprises a plurality of biasing bodies, each biasing body comprising a support frame and at least one spring bar connected to and supported by the support frame, the at least one spring bar being contactable via the conductor; a first biasing body of the plurality of biasing bodies connected to the U-shaped body of the base; and A second biasing body of the plurality of biasing bodies is connected to the U-shaped body of the cover.

19. The system of claim 2, wherein: The joint defines the recess and chamber; The recess and the chamber open in the same direction; and The cap is positionable within the cavity and, when positioned within the cavity, the cap at least partially closes the recess and the cavity.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein: The cap includes an aperture through which potting material can be injected into at least one of the cavity and the recess to non-releasably connect (i) the connector and the cap and (ii) the connector assembly, the terminal, and the conductor.

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