Terminal, connector and connector assembly

Abstract

The invention discloses a terminal, a connector and a connector assembly. The terminal includes: a single terminal plate having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to each other in a thickness direction thereof; the limiting shell comprises a top plate and a side plate; the top plate is positioned above the top surface of the terminal plate; the side plate is connected with the top plate and is fixed on the terminal plate in a riveting manner; the elastic contact piece is installed on the top face of the terminal plate and faces the top plate of the limiting shell, and the elastic contact piece is used for being in electric contact with a matched terminal inserted between the elastic contact piece and the top plate of the limiting shell so as to achieve electric connection between the terminal and the matched terminal. In the invention, the terminal body of the terminal only comprises the terminal plate, so that the structure of the terminal is simplified, and the production cost and the manufacturing difficulty are reduced. In addition, the terminal of the invention can be in reliable electric contact with a mating terminal in a vibration environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal, in particular to a terminal for a high-voltage connector. In addition, the present invention also relates to a connector including the terminal and a connector assembly including the connector. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, high-voltage connector terminals typically include a terminal body, a pair of elastic contacts, and a retaining housing. The terminal body includes two terminal plates. A gap is defined between the two terminal plates to allow insertion of a mating terminal. A pair of elastic contacts are positioned in the gap between the two terminal plates and fixed to the inner side surfaces of the two terminal plates, respectively, to clamp the mating terminal inserted between them and achieve electrical connection between the two terminals. The retaining housing is fitted over the two terminal plates of the terminal body to lock the terminal into the connector housing.

[0003] In the prior art, the terminal body consists of two terminal plates, resulting in a complex structure, high production costs, and significant manufacturing difficulties. Furthermore, in the prior art, vibration can cause the gap between the two terminal plates to shift, leading to poor electrical contact between the terminal and its mating terminal. Consequently, existing high-voltage connector terminals are not suitable for use in vibrating environments. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to solve at least one aspect of the above-mentioned problems and defects in the prior art.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a terminal is provided. The terminal comprises: a single terminal plate having a top surface and a bottom surface opposing each other in a thickness direction thereof; a limiting housing comprising a top plate positioned above the top surface of the terminal plate and side plates connected to the top plate and riveted to the terminal plate; and an elastic contact member mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate and facing the top plate of the limiting housing, the elastic contact member being configured to electrically contact a mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact member and the top plate of the limiting housing to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal board has a front end portion and a rear end portion opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction thereof, and the limiting shell and the elastic contact piece are installed on the front end portion of the terminal board; the limiting shell has a left opening and a right opening opposite to each other in the transverse direction of the terminal board to allow the mating terminal to be inserted between the elastic contact piece and the top plate of the limiting shell along the transverse direction of the terminal board.

[0007] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the side panels of the limiting housing include: a front side panel connected to the front side of the top panel; and a rear side panel connected to the rear side of the top panel. The limiting housing further includes: a front riveted plate connected to the underside of the front side panel and vertically bent toward the rear or the front; and a rear riveted plate connected to the underside of the rear side panel and vertically bent toward the rear. The front riveted plate is riveted to the top or bottom surface of the terminal plate, and the rear riveted plate is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate to secure the limiting housing to the terminal plate.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front riveting plate and the rear riveting plate are strip-shaped and extend in a transverse direction of the terminal plate.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front riveting plate includes a pair of strip portions riveted to the terminal plate, the pair of strip portions being located on left and right sides of the terminal plate and extending in a longitudinal direction of the terminal plate.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of rivet holes are respectively formed on the front rivet plate and the rear rivet plate, and a plurality of rivet columns are formed on the terminal plate. The plurality of rivet columns are riveted into the plurality of rivet holes, respectively, to rivet the front rivet plate and the rear rivet plate to the terminal plate.

[0011] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front rivet plate is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate, and the rivet column protrudes from the top surface of the terminal plate; a plurality of operating holes corresponding to the plurality of rivet holes on the front rivet plate are formed on the top plate of the limiting shell to allow the rivet punch on the riveting tool to pass through the top plate.

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the side panels of the limiting housing include: a front side panel connected to the front side of the top panel; and a rear side panel connected to the rear side of the top panel. The limiting housing further includes: a plurality of rivet tabs connected to the lower side of the front side panel and extending downward; and a rear rivet plate connected to the lower side of the rear side panel and bent vertically backward, a plurality of rivet grooves corresponding to the plurality of rivet tabs are formed on the front end surface of the terminal plate, the plurality of rivet grooves are arranged in a row along the transverse direction of the terminal plate, the plurality of rivet tabs are riveted to the plurality of rivet grooves, and the rear rivet plate is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate to fix the limiting housing to the terminal plate.

[0013] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, side walls on both sides of the rivet groove are bent and abut against outer surfaces on both sides of the rivet sheet to rivet the rivet sheet in the rivet groove.

[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the side panels of the limiting housing include: a front side panel connected to the front side of the top panel; and a rear side panel connected to the rear side of the top panel. The limiting housing further includes: at least one pair of riveted legs connected to the lower side of the front side panel and extending downward; and a rear riveted plate connected to the lower side of the rear side panel and bent vertically backward. At least one slot corresponding to each of the at least one pair of riveted legs is formed on the terminal plate. Each pair of riveted legs passes through a corresponding slot and is riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal plate. The rear riveted plate is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate to secure the limiting housing to the terminal plate.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, ends of each pair of riveting legs are bent away from each other and abut against the bottom surface of the terminal plate, so as to rivet the riveting legs to the bottom surface of the terminal plate.

[0016] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the limiting shell also includes a pair of positioning parts, which are connected to the lower side of the front side plate and bent vertically toward the rear; a pair of positioning grooves are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate, and the pair of positioning grooves are respectively located on the left and right sides of the terminal plate, and the pair of positioning parts are positioned in the pair of positioning grooves.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a positioning groove is formed on the lower side of the front side plate of the limiting shell, and the positioning groove is located between the pair of positioning parts; the terminal board has a positioning protrusion located between the pair of positioning grooves, and the positioning protrusion is positioned in the positioning groove.

[0018] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal board has a front end portion and a rear end portion opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction thereof, and the limiting shell and the elastic contact member are installed on the front end portion of the terminal board; the limiting shell has a front opening and a rear opening opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of the terminal board to allow the mating terminal to be inserted from the front opening of the limiting shell along the longitudinal direction of the terminal board.

[0019] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the side panels of the limiting housing include: a left side panel connected to the left side of the top panel; and a right side panel connected to the right side of the top panel. The limiting housing further includes: a left riveted plate connected to the lower side of the left side panel and vertically bent to the right or left; and a right riveted plate connected to the lower side of the right side panel and vertically bent to the left or right. The left riveted plate and the right riveted plate are riveted to the top surface or bottom surface of the terminal plate to secure the limiting housing to the terminal plate.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the left rivet plate and the right rivet plate are strip-shaped and extend in the longitudinal direction of the terminal plate.

[0021] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of rivet holes are respectively formed on the left rivet plate and the right rivet plate, and a plurality of rivet columns are formed on the terminal plate. The plurality of rivet columns are riveted into the plurality of rivet holes, respectively, to rivet the left rivet plate and the right rivet plate to the terminal plate.

[0022] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the left rivet plate and the right rivet plate are riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate, and the rivet column protrudes from the top surface of the terminal plate; a plurality of operating holes corresponding to the rivet holes on the left rivet plate and the right rivet plate are formed on the top plate of the limiting shell to allow the rivet punch on the riveting tool to pass through the top plate.

[0023] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, at least one inwardly protruding rib is formed on the top plate of the limiting shell, and the rib extends along the longitudinal or transverse direction of the terminal plate, and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal can make reliable electrical contact with the elastic contact piece.

[0024] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cross section of the rib is semicircular, U-shaped or V-shaped.

[0025] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of convex bumps protruding toward the terminal board are formed on the top plate of the limiting shell, and the plurality of convex bumps are distributed in an array and are used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal can be in reliable electrical contact with the elastic contact piece.

[0026] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an anti-fool protrusion is formed on the top plate of the limit shell, and the anti-fool protrusion is used to cooperate with the guide groove in the shell of the connector to guide the terminal to be inserted into the shell of the connector in the correct orientation.

[0027] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, one or more elastic locks are formed on the top plate of the limiting shell, and the elastic locks are used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

[0028] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an elastic lock is formed on the left plate and / or the right plate of the limiting shell, and the elastic lock is used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

[0029] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elastic contact member includes a plurality of elastic arms extending along the transverse direction of the terminal board, and the plurality of elastic arms are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the terminal board; the plurality of elastic arms of the elastic contact member are used to simultaneously make electrical contact with the mating terminals inserted along the transverse direction of the terminal board.

[0030] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elastic contact member includes a plurality of elastic arms extending along the longitudinal direction of the terminal board, and the plurality of elastic arms are arranged in a row along the transverse direction of the terminal board; the plurality of elastic arms of the elastic contact member are used to simultaneously make electrical contact with the mating terminals inserted along the longitudinal direction of the terminal board.

[0031] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the limiting shell is an integral stamping part.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, a connector is provided, comprising: a housing and a terminal, wherein the terminal is inserted into the housing.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention, a connector assembly is provided. The connector assembly includes a connector and a mating connector adapted to mate with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing adapted to mate with the connector housing; and a mating terminal adapted to be inserted between a resilient contact of the connector and a top plate of a retaining housing to electrically contact the resilient contact of the connector.

[0034] In the aforementioned exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the terminal body of the terminal comprises only a single terminal plate, thereby simplifying the terminal structure, reducing production costs and manufacturing difficulty. Moreover, the terminal of the present invention can also maintain reliable electrical contact with the mating terminal in a vibrating environment.

[0035] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, which will help to provide a comprehensive understanding of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 A transverse sectional view showing a terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing an assembly of a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the rivet tab has not yet been riveted into the rivet groove;

[0041] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing an assembly of a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the rivet piece has been riveted into the rivet groove;

[0042] Figure 7 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 8 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the top;

[0044] Figure 9 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom;

[0045] Figure 10 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom;

[0046] Figure 11 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 12 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 13 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 14 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 15 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top;

[0051] Figure 16 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the bottom;

[0052] Figure 17 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 18 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 19 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 20 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top;

[0056] Figure 21 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the bottom;

[0057] Figure 22 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top;

[0058] Figure 23 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the bottom;

[0059] Figure 24 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 25 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top;

[0061] Figure 26 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the bottom;

[0062] Figure 27 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top;

[0063] Figure 28 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the bottom;

[0064] Figure 29 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0065] Figure 30 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 31 A transverse sectional view showing a terminal according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 32 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] Figure 33 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below through examples and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the specification, the same or similar reference numerals indicate the same or similar components. The following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings is intended to explain the overall inventive concept of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0070] In addition, in the following detailed description, for ease of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, it is apparent that one or more embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in diagrammatic form to simplify the accompanying drawings.

[0071] According to an overall technical concept of the present invention, a terminal is provided. The terminal comprises: a single terminal plate having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to each other in the thickness direction thereof; a limiting shell comprising a top plate located above the top surface of the terminal plate and a side plate connected to the top plate and fixed to the terminal plate by riveting; and an elastic contact member mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate and facing the top plate of the limiting shell, the elastic contact member being configured to electrically contact a mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact member and the top plate of the limiting shell to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0072] According to another general technical concept of the present invention, a connector is provided, comprising: a housing and a terminal, wherein the terminal is inserted into the housing.

[0073] According to another general technical concept of the present invention, a connector assembly is provided. The connector assembly includes a connector and a mating connector adapted to mate with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing adapted to mate with the connector housing; and a mating terminal adapted to be inserted between a resilient contact of the connector and a top plate of a retaining housing to electrically contact the resilient contact of the connector.

[0074] Figure 1 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A transverse sectional view showing a terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a terminal is disclosed. The terminal includes: a single terminal plate 1, a limiting shell 2 and an elastic contact 3. The terminal plate 1 has a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to each other in its thickness direction Z. The limiting shell 2 is riveted to the terminal plate 1 and includes a top plate 20 located above the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The elastic contact 3 is mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate 1 and faces the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. The elastic contact 3 is used to electrically contact the mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact 3 and the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0076] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal board 1 has a front end and a rear end opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction Y thereof, and the limiting housing 2 and the elastic contact member 3 are mounted on the front end of the terminal board 1. The limiting housing 2 has a left opening and a right opening opposite to each other in the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1 to allow the mating terminal to be inserted between the elastic contact member 3 and the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2 along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1.

[0077] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 also includes: a front side plate 21, a rear side plate 22, a front riveted plate 23 and a rear riveted plate 24. The front side plate 21 is connected to the front side of the top plate 20. The front riveted plate 23 is connected to the lower side of the front side plate 21 and is bent vertically toward the rear. The rear side plate 22 is connected to the rear side of the top plate 20. The rear riveted plate 24 is connected to the lower side of the rear side plate 22 and is bent vertically toward the rear. The front riveted plate 23 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and the rear riveted plate 24 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1 to fix the limiting shell 2 to the terminal plate 1.

[0078] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the front riveted plate 23 and the rear riveted plate 24 are strip-shaped and extend along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1 .

[0079] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of rivet holes 2a are respectively formed on the front rivet plate 23 and the rear rivet plate 24, and a plurality of rivet columns 1a are formed on the terminal plate 1, and the plurality of rivet columns 1a are respectively riveted into the plurality of rivet holes 2a to rivet the front rivet plate 23 and the rear rivet plate 24 to the terminal plate 1.

[0080] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the front rivet plate 23 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and the rivet columns 1a protrude from the top surface of the terminal plate 1. A plurality of operating holes 2a' corresponding to the plurality of rivet holes 2a on the front rivet plate 23 are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2 to allow the rivet punch on the riveting tool to pass through the top plate 20.

[0081] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one inwardly protruding rib 2b is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the rib 2b extends along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1, and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact piece 3 can be reliably electrically contacted.

[0082] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the cross section of the rib 2b can be semicircular, U-shaped or V-shaped.

[0083] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, an anti-fool protrusion 2c is formed on the top plate 20 of the limit shell 2, and the anti-fool protrusion 2c is used to cooperate with a guide groove (not shown) in the housing of the connector (not shown) to guide the terminal to be inserted into the housing of the connector in the correct orientation.

[0084] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, one or more elastic locks 2d are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2, and the elastic locks 2d are used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

[0085] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic contact member 3 includes a plurality of elastic arms 30 extending along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and the plurality of elastic arms 30 are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1. The plurality of elastic arms 30 of the elastic contact member 3 are used to simultaneously electrically contact the mating terminals inserted along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1.

[0086] Figure 4 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing an assembly of a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the rivet tab has not yet been riveted into the rivet groove; Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing an assembly of a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the rivet piece has been riveted into the rivet groove; Figure 7 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figures 4 to 7 The second embodiment shown is Figures 1 to 3 The main difference of the first embodiment shown is the different riveting method between the front side plate 21 and the terminal plate 1.

[0088] like Figures 4 to 7As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 includes a plurality of rivet plates 25. The plurality of rivet plates 25 are connected to the lower side of the front side plate 21 and extend downward. A plurality of rivet grooves 15 corresponding to the plurality of rivet plates 25 are formed on the front end surface of the terminal plate 1, and the plurality of rivet grooves 15 are arranged in a row along the transverse direction X of the terminal plate 1. The plurality of rivet plates 25 are riveted into the plurality of rivet grooves 15, respectively, and the rear rivet plate 24 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1 to fix the limiting shell 2 to the terminal plate 1.

[0089] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the side walls 15a on both sides of the rivet groove 15 are pressed toward the inner side of the rivet groove 15 during riveting and abut against the outer surfaces of both sides of the rivet plate 25 to rivet the rivet plate 25 in the rivet groove 15.

[0090] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one inwardly protruding rib 2b is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the rib 2b extends along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact member 3 can be reliably electrically contacted.

[0091] Figure 8 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the top; Figure 9 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a third embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom; Figure 10 An exploded schematic diagram viewed from the bottom shows a terminal according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Figures 8 to 10 The third embodiment shown is Figures 1 to 3 The main difference of the first embodiment shown is the different riveting method between the front side plate 21 and the terminal plate 1.

[0093] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting housing 2 includes at least one pair of riveted legs 26, which are connected to the lower side of the front side plate 21 and extend downward. At least one slot 16 corresponding to the at least one pair of riveted legs 26 is formed on the terminal board 1. Each pair of riveted legs 26 passes through a corresponding slot 16 and is riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal board 1. The rear riveted plate 24 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal board 1 to fix the limiting housing 2 to the terminal board 1.

[0094] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the end portions 26a of each pair of riveted legs 26 are bent away from each other by stamping during riveting and rest against the bottom surface of the terminal block 1 to rivet the riveted legs 26 to the bottom surface of the terminal block 1 .

[0095] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting housing 2 further includes a pair of positioning portions 27, which are connected to the lower side of the front side plate 21 and bent vertically toward the rear. The riveted legs 26 are connected to the positioning portions 27. A pair of positioning grooves 17 are formed on the top surface of the terminal board 1, one on each side of the terminal board 1, and the pair of positioning portions 27 are positioned in the pair of positioning grooves 17.

[0096] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a positioning groove 218 is formed on the lower side of the front side plate 21 of the limiting housing 2, and the positioning groove 218 is located between the pair of positioning portions 27. The terminal board 1 has a positioning protrusion 18 located between the pair of positioning grooves 17, and the positioning protrusion 18 is positioned in the positioning groove 218.

[0097] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one inwardly protruding rib 2b is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the rib 2b extends along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact member 3 can be reliably electrically contacted.

[0098] Figure 11 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Figure 11 The fourth embodiment shown is Figures 1 to 3 The main difference from the first embodiment shown is the structure of the front rivet plate 23 .

[0100] like Figure 11 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the front riveting plate 23 includes a pair of strip portions 23 a riveted to the terminal plate 1 , the pair of strip portions 23 a being respectively located on the left and right sides of the terminal plate 1 and extending along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1 .

[0101] Figure 13 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Figure 13 The fifth embodiment shown is Figures 1 to 3 The main difference between the first embodiment shown is the number of ribs 2b on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2. In the first embodiment, two ribs 2b are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2. In the fifth embodiment, three ribs 2b are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2.

[0103] Figure 14 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Figure 14 The sixth embodiment shown is Figures 1 to 3 The main difference of the first embodiment shown is the number and position of the elastic lock buckles 2d on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. In the first embodiment, only one elastic lock buckle 2d is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. Figure 14 In the sixth embodiment shown, two elastic lock buckles 2 d are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2 , and the two elastic lock buckles 2 d are spaced apart front to back in the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1 .

[0105] Figure 15 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top; Figure 16 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom is shown.

[0106] Figure 15 and Figure 16 The seventh embodiment shown is the same as Figures 1 to 3 The main difference of the first embodiment shown is that the structures of the foolproof protrusion 2c and the elastic lock 2d on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 are different. Figures 1 to 3 In the first embodiment shown, the fool-proof protrusion 2c is in the shape of a convex hull, and the elastic lock 2d extends obliquely along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1. Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the seventh embodiment shown, the anti-fool protrusion 2c is rib-shaped and extends along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and the elastic lock 2d extends obliquely along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, so that the terminal can be inserted into the connector housing along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1.

[0107] Figure 17 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a terminal is disclosed. The terminal includes: a single terminal plate 1, a limiting shell 2 and an elastic contact 3. The terminal plate 1 has a top surface and a bottom surface relative to each other in its thickness direction Z. The limiting shell 2 is riveted to the terminal plate 1 and includes a top plate 20 located above the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The elastic contact 3 is mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate 1 and faces the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. The elastic contact 3 is used to electrically contact the mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact 3 and the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0109] like Figures 17 and 18As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal board 1 has a front end and a rear end opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction Y thereof, and the limiting housing 2 and the elastic contact member 3 are mounted on the front end of the terminal board 1. The limiting housing 2 has a front opening and a rear opening opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1 to allow the mating terminal to be inserted from the front opening of the limiting housing 2 along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1.

[0110] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 also includes: a left side plate 28, a left riveted plate 280, a right side plate 29 and a right riveted plate 290. The left side plate 28 is connected to the left side of the top plate 20. The left riveted plate 280 is connected to the lower side of the left side plate 28 and is bent vertically to the right. The right side plate 29 is connected to the right side of the top plate 20. The right riveted plate 290 is connected to the lower side of the right side plate 29 and is bent vertically to the left. The left riveted plate 280 and the right riveted plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1 to fix the limiting shell 2 to the terminal plate 1.

[0111] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are strip-shaped and extend along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1 .

[0112] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of rivet holes 2a are respectively formed on the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290, and a plurality of rivet columns 1a are formed on the terminal plate 1, and the plurality of rivet columns 1a are respectively riveted into the plurality of rivet holes 2a to rivet the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 to the terminal plate 1.

[0113] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and the rivet columns 1a protrude from the top surface of the terminal plate 1. A plurality of operating holes 2a' corresponding to the rivet holes 2a on the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2 to allow the rivet punch on the riveting tool to pass through the top plate 20.

[0114] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one inwardly protruding rib 2b is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the rib 2b extends along the longitudinal direction Y or the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact member 3 can be reliably electrically contacted.

[0115] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the cross section of the rib 2b is semicircular, U-shaped or V-shaped.

[0116] like Figures 17 and 18As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, an anti-fool protrusion 2c is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the anti-fool protrusion 2c is used to cooperate with the guide groove in the housing of the connector to guide the terminal to be inserted into the housing of the connector in the correct orientation.

[0117] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the embodiment shown in the figure, one or more elastic locks 2d are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2. The elastic locks 2d are used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the elastic locks 2d are L-shaped cantilevered.

[0118] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, an elastic lock 2d is formed on the left plate 28 and / or the right plate 29 of the limiting shell 2, and the elastic lock 2d is used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

[0119] like Figures 17 and 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic contact member 3 includes a plurality of elastic arms 30 extending along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1, and the plurality of elastic arms 30 are arranged in a row along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1. The plurality of elastic arms 30 of the elastic contact member 3 are used to simultaneously electrically contact the mating terminals inserted along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1.

[0120] Figure 19 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Figure 19 The ninth embodiment shown is the same as Figure 17 and Figure 18 The main difference of the eighth embodiment shown is that the number of ribs 2b on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 is different. Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the eighth embodiment shown, there are two ribs 2b on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. Figure 19 In the ninth embodiment shown, the number of the ribs 2b on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 is three.

[0122] Figure 20 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top; Figure 21 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom is shown.

[0123] Figure 20 and Figure 21 The tenth embodiment shown is Figure 17 and Figure 18 The main difference of the eighth embodiment shown is that the riveting positions of the left riveting plate 280 and the right riveting plate 290 are different. Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the eighth embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal block 1. Figure 20 and Figure 21 In the tenth embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal plate 1. Figure 20 and Figure 21 In the tenth embodiment shown, the elastic lock buckle 2d on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 is located on the left side and is in the shape of an arc-shaped spring sheet.

[0124] Figure 22 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top; Figure 23 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom is shown.

[0125] Figure 22 and Figure 23 The eleventh embodiment shown is the same as Figure 17 and Figure 18 The main difference of the eighth embodiment shown is that the riveting positions of the left riveting plate 280 and the right riveting plate 290 are different. Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the eighth embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal block 1. Figure 22 and Figure 23 In the eleventh embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal plate 1. Figure 22 and Figure 23 In the eleventh embodiment shown, no elastic lock buckle 2d is provided on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2. The elastic lock buckle 2d is formed on the left side plate 28 and the right side plate 29 of the limiting housing 2 and is in the shape of an arc-shaped spring sheet.

[0126] Figure 24 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0127] Figure 24 The twelfth embodiment shown is Figure 17 and Figure 18 The main difference of the eighth embodiment shown is that the cross section of the rib 2b on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 is different. Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the eighth embodiment shown, the cross section of the rib 2b is U-shaped. Figure 24 In the twelfth embodiment shown, the cross section of the rib 2b is V-shaped.

[0128] Figure 25 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top; Figure 26 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom is shown.

[0129] Figure 25 and Figure 26 The thirteenth embodiment shown is the same as Figure 17 and Figure 18 The main difference of the eighth embodiment shown is that the riveting positions of the left riveting plate 280 and the right riveting plate 290 are different. Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the eighth embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal block 1. Figure 25 and Figure 26 In the thirteenth embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal plate 1. Figure 25 and Figure 26 In the thirteenth embodiment shown, the elastic lock buckle 2d is located on the left side of the top plate 20 and is in the shape of an arc-shaped spring sheet.

[0130] Figure 27 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the top; Figure 28 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the bottom is shown.

[0131] Figure 27 and Figure 28 The fourteenth embodiment shown is the same as Figure 17 and Figure 18 The main difference of the eighth embodiment shown is that the riveting positions of the left riveting plate 280 and the right riveting plate 290 are different. Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the eighth embodiment shown, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal block 1. Figure 27 and Figure 28 In the fourteenth embodiment shown, the left riveting plate 280 and the right riveting plate 290 are riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal plate 1. Figure 27 and Figure 28 In the fourteenth embodiment shown, the rib 2b on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2 extends longitudinally along the terminal board 1, and the elastic lock 2d is located in the middle of the top plate 20 and is in the shape of an obliquely extending spring sheet.

[0132] like Figures 1 to 28 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 is an integrated stamping part.

[0133] like Figures 1 to 28 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a connector is also disclosed. The connector mainly includes: a housing (not shown) and the aforementioned terminals. The terminals are inserted into the housing.

[0134] like Figures 1 to 28 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a connector assembly is also disclosed. The connector assembly includes a connector and a mating connector. The mating connector is adapted to mate with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing and a mating terminal. The mating housing is adapted to mate with the connector housing. The mating terminal is adapted to be inserted between the elastic contact member 3 of the connector and the top plate 20 of the retaining housing 2 to electrically contact the elastic contact member 3 of the connector.

[0135] Figure 29 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 30 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 31 A transverse sectional view showing a terminal according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a terminal is disclosed. The terminal includes: a single terminal plate 1, a limiting shell 2 and an elastic contact 3. The terminal plate 1 has a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to each other in its thickness direction Z. The limiting shell 2 is riveted to the terminal plate 1 and includes a top plate 20 located above the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The elastic contact 3 is mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate 1 and faces the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. The elastic contact 3 is used to electrically contact the mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact 3 and the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0137] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal board 1 has a front end and a rear end opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction Y thereof, and the limiting housing 2 and the elastic contact member 3 are mounted on the front end of the terminal board 1. The limiting housing 2 has a left opening and a right opening opposite to each other in the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1 to allow the mating terminal to be inserted between the elastic contact member 3 and the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2 along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1.

[0138] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 also includes: a front side plate 21, a rear side plate 22, a front riveted plate 23 and a rear riveted plate 24. The front side plate 21 is connected to the front side of the top plate 20. The front riveted plate 23 is connected to the lower side of the front side plate 21 and is bent vertically toward the front. The rear side plate 22 is connected to the rear side of the top plate 20. The rear riveted plate 24 is connected to the lower side of the rear side plate 22 and is bent vertically toward the rear. The front riveted plate 23 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and the rear riveted plate 24 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1 to fix the limiting shell 2 to the terminal plate 1.

[0139] like Figures 29 to 31As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the front riveted plate 23 and the rear riveted plate 24 are strip-shaped and extend along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1 .

[0140] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of rivet holes 2a are respectively formed on the front rivet plate 23 and the rear rivet plate 24, and a plurality of rivet columns 1a are formed on the terminal plate 1. The plurality of rivet columns 1a are riveted into the plurality of rivet holes 2a, respectively, to rivet the front rivet plate 23 and the rear rivet plate 24 to the terminal plate 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the front rivet plate 23 is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and the rivet columns 1a protrude from the top surface of the terminal plate 1.

[0141] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of bumps 2b' are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2, protruding toward the terminal board 1. The plurality of bumps 2b' are used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal to ensure reliable electrical contact between the mating terminal and the elastic contact member 3.

[0142] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, one or more elastic locks 2d are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2, and the elastic locks 2d are used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

[0143] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic contact member 3 includes a plurality of elastic arms 30 extending along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and the plurality of elastic arms 30 are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1. The plurality of elastic arms 30 of the elastic contact member 3 are used to simultaneously electrically contact the mating terminals inserted along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1.

[0144] like Figures 29 to 31 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 and the elastic contact member 3 are respectively integral stamped parts.

[0145] Figure 32 A perspective schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 33 An exploded schematic diagram showing a terminal according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0146] like Figure 32 and Figure 33As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a terminal is disclosed. The terminal includes: a single terminal plate 1, a limiting shell 2 and an elastic contact 3. The terminal plate 1 has a top surface and a bottom surface relative to each other in its thickness direction Z. The limiting shell 2 is riveted to the terminal plate 1 and includes a top plate 20 located above the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The elastic contact 3 is mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate 1 and faces the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2. The elastic contact 3 is used to electrically contact the mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact 3 and the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2 to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0147] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal board 1 has a front end and a rear end opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction Y thereof, and the limiting housing 2 and the elastic contact member 3 are mounted on the front end of the terminal board 1. The limiting housing 2 has a front opening and a rear opening opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1 to allow the mating terminal to be inserted from the front opening of the limiting housing 2 along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1.

[0148] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 also includes: a left side plate 28, a left riveted plate 280, a right side plate 29 and a right riveted plate 290. The left side plate 28 is connected to the left side of the top plate 20. The left riveted plate 280 is connected to the lower side of the left side plate 28 and is bent vertically to the left (i.e., bent vertically toward the outside). The right side plate 29 is connected to the right side of the top plate 20. The right riveted plate 290 is connected to the lower side of the right side plate 29 and is bent vertically to the right (i.e., bent vertically toward the outside). The left riveted plate 280 and the right riveted plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1 to fix the limiting shell 2 to the terminal plate 1.

[0149] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are strip-shaped and extend along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1 .

[0150] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of rivet holes 2a are formed on the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290, respectively, and a plurality of rivet columns 1a are formed on the terminal plate 1. The plurality of rivet columns 1a are riveted into the plurality of rivet holes 2a, respectively, to rivet the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 to the terminal plate 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the left rivet plate 280 and the right rivet plate 290 are riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and the rivet columns 1a protrude from the top surface of the terminal plate 1.

[0151] like Figure 32 and Figure 33As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one inwardly protruding rib 2b is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the rib 2b extends along the longitudinal direction Y or the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1, and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact member 3 can be reliably electrically contacted.

[0152] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the cross section of the rib 2b is semicircular, U-shaped or V-shaped.

[0153] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, an anti-fool protrusion 2c is formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting shell 2, and the anti-fool protrusion 2c is used to cooperate with the guide groove in the housing of the connector to guide the terminal to be inserted into the housing of the connector in the correct orientation.

[0154] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the embodiment shown in the figure, one or more elastic locks 2d are formed on the top plate 20 of the limiting housing 2. The elastic locks 2d are used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the elastic locks 2d are L-shaped cantilevered.

[0155] like Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic contact member 3 includes a plurality of elastic arms 30 extending along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1, and the plurality of elastic arms 30 are arranged in a row along the transverse direction X of the terminal board 1. The plurality of elastic arms 30 of the elastic contact member 3 are used to simultaneously electrically contact the mating terminals inserted along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal board 1.

[0156] like Figures 32 to 33 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the limiting shell 2 and the elastic contact member 3 are respectively integral stamped parts.

[0157] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described above are exemplary and can be improved by those skilled in the art. The structures described in various embodiments can be freely combined without causing any conflicts in structure or principle. These changes should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0158] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the embodiments disclosed in the drawings are intended to exemplify the preferred implementations of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0159] Although some embodiments of the general inventive concept have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the general inventive concept, the scope of which is defined in the claims and their equivalents.

[0160] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the word "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. In addition, any element reference in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A terminal, characterized in that: include: A single terminal plate (1) having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to each other in a thickness direction (Z) thereof; The limiting shell (2) comprises: A top plate (20) located above the top surface of the terminal plate (1); and Side plates (21, 22, 28, 29) connected to the top plate (20) and fixed to the terminal plate (1) by riveting; and An elastic contact member (3) is mounted on the top surface of the terminal plate (1) and faces the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2). The elastic contact piece (3) is used to electrically contact a mating terminal inserted between the elastic contact piece (3) and the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2) to achieve electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

2. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal board (1) has a front end portion and a rear end portion that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction (Y) thereof, and the limiting shell (2) and the elastic contact member (3) are mounted on the front end portion of the terminal board (1); The limiting shell (2) has a left opening and a right opening that are opposite to each other in the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1), so as to allow the mating terminal to be inserted between the elastic contact piece (3) and the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2) along the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1).

3. The terminal according to claim 2, characterized in that: The side plates (21, 22) of the limiting housing (2) include: A front side plate (21) connected to the front side of the top plate (20); and A rear side plate (22) connected to the rear side of the top plate (20), The limiting shell (2) also includes: A front riveted plate (23) connected to the lower side of the front side plate (21) and bent vertically toward the rear or the front; and The rear riveting plate (24) is connected to the lower side of the rear side plate (22) and is bent vertically toward the rear. The front riveting plate (23) is riveted to the top surface or bottom surface of the terminal plate (1), and the rear riveting plate (24) is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate (1) to fix the limiting shell (2) to the terminal plate (1).

4. The terminal according to claim 3, characterized in that: The front riveting plate (23) and the rear riveting plate (24) are strip-shaped and extend along the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1).

5. The terminal according to claim 3, wherein: The front riveting plate (23) includes a pair of strip-shaped portions (23a) riveted to the terminal plate (1), the pair of strip-shaped portions (23a) being respectively located on the left and right sides of the terminal plate (1) and extending along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1).

6. The terminal according to claim 3, wherein: A plurality of rivet holes (2a) are respectively formed on the front rivet plate (23) and the rear rivet plate (24), and a plurality of rivet columns (1a) are formed on the terminal plate (1). The plurality of rivet columns (1a) are respectively riveted into the plurality of rivet holes (2a) to rivet the front rivet plate (23) and the rear rivet plate (24) to the terminal plate (1).

7. The terminal according to claim 6, characterized in that: The front riveting plate (23) is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate (1), and the riveting column (1a) protrudes from the top surface of the terminal plate (1); A plurality of operating holes (2a') corresponding to the plurality of riveting holes (2a) on the front riveting plate (23) are formed on the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2) to allow a riveting punch on a riveting tool to pass through the top plate (20).

8. The terminal according to claim 2, characterized in that: The side plates (21, 22) of the limiting housing (2) include: A front side plate (21) connected to the front side of the top plate (20); and A rear side plate (22) connected to the rear side of the top plate (20), The limiting shell (2) also includes: A plurality of rivet plates (25) connected to the lower side of the front side plate (21) and extending downward; and The rear riveting plate (24) is connected to the lower side of the rear side plate (22) and is bent vertically toward the rear. A plurality of rivet grooves (15) corresponding to the plurality of rivet pieces (25) are formed on the front end surface of the terminal plate (1), and the plurality of rivet grooves (15) are arranged in a row along the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1). The plurality of rivet pieces (25) are riveted into the plurality of rivet grooves (15) respectively, and the rear rivet plate (24) is riveted onto the top surface of the terminal plate (1) to fix the limiting shell (2) to the terminal plate (1).

9. The terminal according to claim 8, characterized in that: The side walls (15a) on both sides of the rivet groove (15) are rolled toward the inside of the rivet groove (15) during riveting and abut against the outer surfaces on both sides of the rivet sheet (25) to rivet the rivet sheet (25) in the rivet groove (15).

10. The terminal according to claim 2, wherein: The side plates (21, 22) of the limiting housing (2) include: A front side plate (21) connected to the front side of the top plate (20); and A rear side plate (22) connected to the rear side of the top plate (20), The limiting shell (2) also includes: At least one pair of riveted legs (26) connected to the lower side of the front side plate (21) and extending downward; and The rear riveting plate (24) is connected to the lower side of the rear side plate (22) and is bent vertically toward the rear. At least one slot hole (16) corresponding to the at least one pair of riveted legs (26) is formed on the terminal plate (1), each pair of riveted legs (26) passes through a corresponding slot hole (16) and is riveted to the bottom surface of the terminal plate (1), and the rear riveted plate (24) is riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate (1) to fix the limiting shell (2) to the terminal plate (1).

11. The terminal according to claim 10, characterized in that: The ends (26a) of each pair of riveting legs (26) are bent away from each other during riveting and abut against the bottom surface of the terminal plate (1) to rivet the riveting legs (26) to the bottom surface of the terminal plate (1).

12. The terminal according to claim 5 or 10, characterized in that: The limiting shell (2) further includes a pair of positioning portions (27), wherein the pair of positioning portions (27) are connected to the lower side of the front side plate (21) and are bent vertically toward the rear; A pair of positioning grooves (17) are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate (1), the pair of positioning grooves (17) are respectively located on the left and right sides of the terminal plate (1), and the pair of positioning portions (27) are positioned in the pair of positioning grooves (17).

13. The terminal according to claim 12, characterized in that: A positioning groove (218) is formed on the lower side of the front side plate (21) of the limiting shell (2), and the positioning groove (218) is located between the pair of positioning portions (27); The terminal board (1) has a positioning protrusion (18) located between the pair of positioning grooves (17), and the positioning protrusion (18) is positioned in the positioning groove (218).

14. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: The terminal board (1) has a front end portion and a rear end portion that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction (Y) thereof, and the limiting shell (2) and the elastic contact member (3) are mounted on the front end portion of the terminal board (1); The limiting shell (2) has a front opening and a rear opening that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal board (1), so as to allow the mating terminal to be inserted from the front opening of the limiting shell (2) along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal board (1).

15. The terminal according to claim 14, characterized in that: The side plates (28, 29) of the limiting housing (2) include: a left side panel (28) connected to the left side of the top panel (20); and The right side plate (29) is connected to the right side of the top plate (20). The limiting shell (2) also includes: A left riveted plate (280) connected to the lower side of the left side plate (28) and bent vertically to the right or left; and The right riveted plate (290) is connected to the lower side of the right side plate (29) and is vertically bent to the left or right. The left riveting plate (280) and the right riveting plate (290) are riveted to the top surface or the bottom surface of the terminal plate (1) to fix the limiting shell (2) to the terminal plate (1).

16. The terminal according to claim 15, characterized in that: The left riveting plate (280) and the right riveting plate (290) are strip-shaped and extend along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1).

17. The terminal according to claim 15, characterized in that: A plurality of rivet holes (2a) are respectively formed on the left rivet plate (280) and the right rivet plate (290), and a plurality of rivet columns (1a) are formed on the terminal plate (1). The plurality of rivet columns (1a) are respectively riveted into the plurality of rivet holes (2a) to rivet the left rivet plate (280) and the right rivet plate (290) to the terminal plate (1).

18. The terminal according to claim 17, characterized in that: The left riveting plate (280) and the right riveting plate (290) are riveted to the top surface of the terminal plate (1), and the riveting column (1a) protrudes from the top surface of the terminal plate (1); A plurality of operating holes (2a') are formed on the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2), respectively corresponding to the riveting holes (2a) on the left riveting plate (280) and the right riveting plate (290), so as to allow a riveting punch on a riveting tool to pass through the top plate (20).

19. The terminal according to claim 2 or 14, characterized in that: At least one inwardly protruding rib (2b) is formed on the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2), and the rib (2b) extends along the longitudinal direction (Y) or the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1) and is used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact member (3) are in reliable electrical contact.

20. The terminal according to claim 19, characterized in that: The cross section of the convex rib (2b) is semicircular, U-shaped or V-shaped.

21. The terminal according to claim 2 or 14, characterized in that: A plurality of convex bumps (2b') protruding toward the terminal board (1) are formed on the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2), and the plurality of convex bumps (2b') are distributed in an array and are used to apply a predetermined pressure on the inserted mating terminal so that the mating terminal and the elastic contact member (3) are in reliable electrical contact.

22. The terminal according to claim 2 or 14, characterized in that: An anti-fouling protrusion (2c) is formed on the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2), and the anti-fouling protrusion (2c) is used to cooperate with a guide groove in the housing of the connector to guide the terminal to be inserted into the housing of the connector in a correct orientation.

23. The terminal according to claim 2 or 14, characterized in that: One or more elastic lock buckles (2d) are formed on the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2), and the elastic lock buckles (2d) are used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

24. The terminal according to claim 15, characterized in that: An elastic lock buckle (2d) is formed on the left side plate (28) and / or the right side plate (29) of the limiting shell (2), and the elastic lock buckle (2d) is used to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the terminal in the housing of the connector.

25. The terminal according to claim 2, characterized in that: The elastic contact member (3) comprises a plurality of elastic arms (30) extending along the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1), and the plurality of elastic arms (30) are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1); The multiple elastic arms (30) of the elastic contact piece (3) are used to simultaneously electrically contact with the mating terminals inserted along the transverse direction (X) of the terminal board (1).

26. The terminal according to claim 14, characterized in that: The elastic contact member (3) comprises a plurality of elastic arms (30) extending along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1), and the plurality of elastic arms (30) are arranged in a row along the transverse direction (X) of the terminal plate (1); The multiple elastic arms (30) of the elastic contact piece (3) are used to simultaneously electrically contact with the mating terminals inserted along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal board (1).

27. The terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: The limiting shell (2) is an integrated stamping part.

28. A connector, characterized in that: include: case; and The terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the terminal is inserted into the housing.

29. A connector assembly, characterized in that: include: The connector according to claim 28; and A mating connector, suitable for mating with the connector, The mating connector includes: A mating housing, used to mate with the housing of the connector; and The mating terminal is used to be inserted between the elastic contact piece (3) of the connector and the top plate (20) of the limiting shell (2) to electrically contact the elastic contact piece (3) of the connector.

Images