Robust high voltage low current connector

Abstract

An interconnection system for establishing a high voltage connection in a harsh environment where the connector may be subjected to vibrations, such as within a vehicle. The cable connector may have a TPA that may be inserted into the connector housing without the need to provide an opening in the sidewall, which facilitates a longer creepage distance. The plate connector may have fins with portions extending in a plurality of directions at the mounting junctions. The connector can be designed to have a structure which can be lengthened or shortened, so that the required creepage distance and gap distance can be established under the condition that the distance of the connector is not changed, and economic benefits can be brought to system designers using the connector. Furthermore, such fins support the flexible use of the same connector housing in addition to providing a longer creepage distance, such as enabling it to receive terminals supporting different mounting techniques, thereby mounting the housing in different orientations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed herein relates to electrical interconnect systems, such as connectors for supplying electrical power in harsh environments. Background Art

[0002] The present patent application relates generally to interconnection systems, such as interconnection systems including electrical connectors for interconnecting electronic components, and more particularly to interconnection systems for establishing high voltage connections in harsh environments, such as vehicles, where the connectors may be subject to vibration.

[0003] Electrical connectors are used in many electronic systems. Often, it is easier and more economical to manufacture the system as separate electronic assemblies that can be connected together using electrical connectors. Connectors can be used to interconnect components so that the components can operate together as part of a system. For example, connectors can be mounted on printed circuit boards within two components that are connected by mating the connectors. In other systems, it may be impractical to connect the two printed circuit boards by directly mating the connectors located on the two printed circuit boards. For example, when the system is assembled, the printed circuit boards may be separated by too much distance for a direct connection between the connectors mounted on the printed circuit boards.

[0004] In some systems, connections between components can be made via cables. The cables can be terminated with connectors that mate with connectors mounted on a printed circuit board. Thus, connections between components can be made by inserting a connector that is part of a cable assembly into a connector mounted on the printed circuit board. In other system architectures, a connector that terminates a cable can mate with another connector that terminates another cable.

[0005] A modern automobile is an example of a system that connects components via cables. For example, an automobile includes an electronic control unit (ECU) that controls various vehicle systems, such as the engine, transmission (TCU), safety systems, emissions control, lighting, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), entertainment systems, navigation systems, and cameras. The ECUs can be manufactured as separate components and connected via one or more in-vehicle networks formed by cables routed between these components. To simplify automobile manufacturing, these components can be manufactured separately and then connected via cables terminated with connectors, which can be connected to mating connectors terminated with other cables or to printed circuit boards within the components.

[0006] Automobiles present a harsh environment for electrical connectors. Vehicles are subject to vibration, which can cause connectors to become disengaged and stop functioning altogether. Alternatively, vibration can loosen terminals within the connector, which can also interfere with connector operation. Therefore, some connectors designed for use in harsh environments include terminal position assurance (TPA).

[0007] Connectors that carry high voltages may be designed with creepage distances that prevent arcing in the connector's intended operating environment.

[0008] Creepage distance is the length of the path along a surface between two conductive parts where high voltage may be present during operation. Connectors may also be designed with a clearance distance to prevent arcing. Clearance can be based on the shortest path through air between two conductive parts where high voltage may be present during operation. The creepage and clearance distances required to prevent arcing may depend on various factors, such as the voltage across adjacent conductive parts in the connector and the level of contamination in the operating environment. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The concepts described herein can be embodied as an electrical connector comprising: an insulating housing comprising a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns comprising a channel extending parallel to a mating direction; a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals comprising a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion being arranged within a corresponding channel of a column of the plurality of columns; and a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device comprising a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions extending into a channel of a corresponding column of the plurality of columns, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions comprises a latch feature, each of the plurality of terminals comprises a complementary latch feature, the complementary latch feature being configured to engage with a latch feature of a protrusion of the plurality of protrusions; and the TPA being configured to slide into the insulating housing in a manner parallel to the mating direction such that the latch feature of the TPA engages with the complementary latch feature of the terminal within the channel of the plurality of columns.

[0010] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns including a channel extending along a mating direction; and a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device including a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions aligned with the channel of a corresponding column in the plurality of columns and including a latch feature, wherein the TPA is configured to slide into the insulating shell in a direction opposite to the mating direction.

[0011] On the other hand, there is a method for assembling an electrical connector, the electrical connector including an insulating housing having multiple channels and including a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the TPA including multiple protrusions including a latching feature, the latching feature being associated with each of the multiple protrusions, the method comprising: inserting multiple terminals including complementary latching features into the TPA when the TPA is partially inserted into the insulating housing of the electrical connector and each of the multiple protrusions is aligned with a corresponding channel of the insulating housing of the electrical connector, so that the complementary latching feature of each of the multiple terminals engages with the latching feature associated with the corresponding protrusion of the multiple protrusions; and pushing the TPA into the insulating housing when the multiple terminals are inserted.

[0012] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including a cavity, a mating face and a plurality of openings through the mating face, and a terminal position assurance device (TPA) latch feature; a TPA, the TPA is arranged in the cavity and includes a body and a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, wherein the body includes a complementary TPA latch feature, each terminal receiving space in the plurality of terminal receiving spaces is aligned with the opening through the mating face and includes a terminal latch feature; a plurality of terminals, each terminal in the plurality of terminals includes a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion is arranged in a terminal receiving space in the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, and each terminal in the plurality of terminals includes a complementary terminal latch feature. The complementary terminal latch feature is configured to engage with the terminal latch feature within a receiving space in a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, wherein, for each terminal in the plurality of terminals arranged in a corresponding terminal receiving space in the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, the terminal latch feature and the complementary terminal latch feature of the corresponding terminal receiving space are configured to provide a first retaining force when engaged, the first retaining force being used to at least partially retain the terminal within the corresponding terminal receiving space; the TPA latch feature and the complementary TPA latch feature are configured to provide a second retaining force when engaged, the second retaining force being used to at least partially retain the TPA within the cavity; and the second retaining force is greater than the first retaining force.

[0013] On the other hand, a method for operating an electrical connector is provided, wherein the electrical connector includes a connector housing, the connector housing includes a mating face and a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device is configured to latch to the connector housing through a TPA latching feature, the TPA includes a body having a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, the plurality of terminal receiving spaces being configured to receive corresponding terminals of a plurality of terminals through a first face of the TPA, the method may include: sliding the TPA into the connector housing to engage the TPA latching feature; and pulling out at least one of the plurality of terminals through the first face of the TPA when the TPA latching feature is engaged.

[0014] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, which may include a plurality of channels opening at a mating joint of the connector and including a plurality of fins; and a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including: a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion being arranged in a corresponding channel of the plurality of channels, and a mounting portion, the mounting portion extending from the insulating shell and being configured for mounting to a printed circuit board at the mounting joint, wherein the mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint; and the plurality of fins being configured such that: when the mounting joint is parallel to the mating joint and when the mounting joint is perpendicular to the mating joint, the fins of the plurality of fins separate the aligned mounting portions of adjacent terminals.

[0015] On the other hand, the electrical connector may include: a board connector housing, the board connector housing including a plurality of channels, wherein the board connector housing includes a first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion can be configured as a mounting joint portion located at the first side portion, and the second side portion is transverse to the first side portion and can be configured as a mounting joint portion located at the second side portion.

[0016] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns including a channel extending along the mating direction and including an opening located at the mating joint of the connector; a terminal position ensuring device (TPA), the terminal position ensuring device including a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions extending into the channel of a corresponding column among the plurality of columns; and a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals being at least partially arranged in the channel of a corresponding column among the plurality of columns and engaging with a corresponding protrusion among the plurality of protrusions; wherein the TPA is configured to slide into the insulating shell in a direction opposite to the mating direction; and for terminals having a predetermined spacing at the mating joint, the creepage distance at the mating joint of the connector depends on the length of each of the plurality of columns.

[0017] Another aspect is a connector, which is configured to be mounted on a first side of a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board having a second side opposite to the first side and a connector arrangement structure including a conductive structure, the conductive structure being used to electrically connect to terminals of the connector, the terminals being exposed at the first and second sides of the printed circuit board, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including: a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels opening at a mating engagement portion of the connector; and a plurality of fins, the plurality of fins including: a first portion extending from the insulating shell in a first direction to a first distal end portion; and a second portion extending from the insulating shell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to a second distal end portion; and a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including: a mating contact portion, the mating contact portions being arranged correspondingly in the plurality of channels within a channel, wherein the respective channel comprises a wall having a length of a first distance in a direction perpendicular to the mating joint, and a mounting portion extending from the insulating housing and configured for mounting to a printed circuit board at the mounting joint, wherein the mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint; the plurality of fins are configured such that: a first portion of the plurality of fins separates aligned mounting portions of adjacent terminals on a first side; the mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are offset from a first distal end of the fins by a second distance; a second portion of the plurality of fins separates adjacent conductive structures of the connector arrangement on a second side; and the conductive structures of the connector arrangement on the second side are offset from the second distal end of the fins by a third distance; and a creepage distance of the connector is determined by the smaller of the first distance, the second distance, and the third distance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The drawings are not limited to the dimensions shown. For clarity, not all components are labeled in every figure. In the drawings:

[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary interconnect system with a mated cable connector and board connector, according to some embodiments.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary connector mounted to a printed circuit board at a first mounting engagement of the board connector.

[0021] Figure 3A yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of an exemplary cable connector.

[0022] Figure 3B yes Figure 1 A rear perspective view of a housing of an exemplary cable connector.

[0023] Figure 4 yes Figure 1Exploded view of an exemplary interconnect system.

[0024] Figure 5A and Figure 5B yes Figure 1 sectional view of an alternative implementation of an exemplary interconnect system in which terminals in a board-mounted connector of the interconnect system have different tail configurations.

[0025] 6A to 6D yes Figure 5A and Figure 5B A view of an alternative implementation form in which the creepage path is located at a mating joint, at a mounting joint of a board connector, at a side of a cable connector opposite the mating joint, on a surface of one side of a printed circuit board, and on an opposite side of the printed circuit board.

[0026] 7A to 7F 3 is a perspective view of a step during assembly of the cable connector of FIG. 3 .

[0027] Figures 8A to 8C are cross-sectional views through the cable connector of FIG. 3 in three positions with the TPA in the open position.

[0028] Figures 9A to 9C It passes through Figures 8A to 8C Cross-sectional view of the three positions of the TPA in which the TPA is in the locked position.

[0029] Figure 10A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the cable connector of FIG. 3 , with the TPA latched in a locked position.

[0030] Figure 10B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the cable connector of FIG. 3 with the TPA latched in an open position.

[0031] Figure 11A yes Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a board-mounted connector mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) in a right-angle configuration.

[0032] Figure 11B yes Figure 11A A side sectional view of a board-type connector housing.

[0033] Figure 12A yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a board-mount connector positioned to be mounted to a PCB in a right-angle configuration.

[0034] Figure 12B yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a board-mount connector positioned to be mounted to a PCB in a vertical configuration.

[0035] Figure 13 yes Figure 1A perspective view of a connector with a vertical mounting configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The inventors have recognized and understood techniques for economically manufacturing connectors suitable for use with high voltages in harsh environments. These techniques can be used individually, or one or more of these techniques can be used in combination.

[0037] The techniques described herein can achieve greater creepage distances to support high voltage operation, even when using a TPA that retains the terminals within the cable connector housing in harsh environments. The TPA can be configured to engage with the connector housing so that the terminals can be easily installed and / or removed, simplifying initial assembly and repair. For example, the TPA and the housing can have latching features and complementary latching features that cooperate to retain the TPA in the housing such that the force required to remove the TPA from the housing is greater than the force required to remove the terminals from the TPA.

[0038] In addition, board-mounted connectors can be manufactured with housings that support mounting to a printed circuit board (PCB) in any of a variety of orientations, such as a right-angle configuration or a vertical configuration. The housing can be configured to achieve a large creepage distance regardless of the orientation in which it is mounted. Housings that enable multiple mounting orientations can reduce the number of different parts that connector manufacturers need to produce, thereby improving the economy of the connector configurations produced.

[0039] Furthermore, the creepage distance of these connectors can be defined by structures that can be easily manufactured in shorter or longer lengths, enabling connectors constructed using the techniques described herein to be configured for a desired creepage distance without changing the spacing between terminals in the connector. This capability, for example, can enable automotive designers to modify connector specifications for greater creepage distances, such as to support operation in dirtier environments or at higher voltages, without having to modify other aspects of the cable assembly terminated with the connector or the PCB to which the connector is mounted.

[0040] The inventors recognize and appreciate that conventional approaches to providing connector robustness may result in connectors unsuitable for operation under high voltages. For example, conventional TPAs can be inserted through openings in the side of the connector. These openings create a shorter creepage path between the terminals, which can result in a shorter creepage distance for the connector. The designs disclosed herein may include TPAs with few or no such openings that shorten the creepage path within the connector.

[0041] The connectors described herein can be assembled from a housing subassembly having a TPA that latches to a connector housing. The TPA can include a terminal receiving space and a terminal latching feature for retaining the terminal in the terminal receiving space. The TPA can slide within the connector housing so that the TPA can be pushed into the connector housing to a position where the latching feature and / or complementary latching feature interferes with the movement of the housing, thereby locking the terminal within the TPA, which in turn can latch the TPA into place within the housing.

[0042] The TPA can be configured such that the terminal is inserted and / or removed through an insertion face that is opposite the mating face of the connector. In addition, the TPA can be slid into and / or out of a locked position in a direction perpendicular to the mating face of the connector, such that no holes are required in the side of the connector housing subassembly for operation of the TPA. This configuration achieves a longer creepage distance than conventional connectors, which require openings in the side of the connector housing to insert or remove the TPA. The creepage distance can be based, for example, at least in part, on an offset of the terminal relative to the mating face and / or insertion face of the TPA, through which the terminal is inserted).

[0043] The offset between the mating engagement and the point at which the terminal extends from the housing affects the length of the creepage path at the mating engagement. This offset can be made relatively large by positioning the terminal within a column in one connector and within a channel in the mating connector. Furthermore, the length of these offsets at the mating face can be varied by lengthening or shortening the column and / or channel without changing the spacing between the terminals or other aspects of the connection system. Similarly, the length of the offset at the insertion face of the cable connector can be varied by changing the length of the terminal-receiving channel within the TPA.

[0044] At the mounting joint of a board-type connector, the creepage distance can be determined at least in part based on the length of a fin extending from the housing. The fin can extend in a plane perpendicular to the mounting face of the connector. The fin can separate the mounting portions of adjacent terminals extending from the connector housing so that the creepage path at the mounting face crosses the distal end of the fin. Optionally, the fin can extend in two directions so that a portion of the fin separates the mounting portions of the terminals of the connector on a first side of the PCB, which can be the side of the PCB on which the connector is mounted. The second portion of the fin can extend in a direction perpendicular to the first portion of the fin to separate a conductive structure associated with mounting the connector, which extends to a second side of the PCB. By adjusting the length of the fin in one or more directions in which it extends, these creepage distances can be easily adjusted without changing the terminal spacing.

[0045] Alternatively, the fins may extend from multiple surfaces of the board-mounted connector housing.Such a connector can be mounted to a PCB in any of a variety of orientations, thereby economically enabling a single design housing to be manufactured into a connector suitable for any of a variety of configurations.

[0046] These technologies can be used individually or in combination. These technologies will be described below in conjunction with an interconnect system that can be used, for example, to establish physical connections between components in an automobile.

[0047] Figure 1 FIG. 1 shows an interconnection system 100 having a mated board connector 200 and a cable connector 300 according to some embodiments. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , the board connector 200 is mounted to the printed circuit board (PCB) 102. For simplicity, Figure 1 Only a portion of a printed circuit board is shown. PCB 102 can be, for example, a PCB in an ECU or other harsh environment. Cable connector 300 is shown as being terminated with a plurality of cables 106. In this example, cable connector 300 is terminated with six cables 106. In other examples, the cable connector can be terminated with more or fewer cables. No matter how many cables the cable connector 300 terminates, these terminated cables can form a cable assembly, for example, forming a wiring harness in an automobile that connects signals and power to an ECU or other electronic device that includes plate connector 200.

[0048] The interconnect system 100 may be configured for use in high voltage applications using one or more of the techniques described herein.

[0049] The board connector 200 may include an insulating housing 112. In this example, the insulating housing 112 is mounted to the PCB 102 to provide the board connector 200 in a right-angle configuration in which the mating engagement portion (e.g., Figure 2 The mating joint 206 of the board connector 200 is perpendicular to the mounting joint (eg, Figure 4 Mounting joint 416a).

[0050] The insulating housing 112 may be mounted to the printed circuit board 102 using at least one retainer 116. Figure 1In the example of , two retainers 116 are used. The board connector housing 112 can have a retainer slot 118, and each retainer 116 is inserted into the slot and engaged with the board connector housing 112. In this example, the board connector 200 is configured for surface mounting and soldering to the PCB 102, and a portion of the retainer 116 extends from the board connector housing 112 at the following position: the position is aligned with the pad on the surface of the PCB 102 to which the retainer 116 can be soldered. In examples where the board connector 200 is configured to be mounted to the PCB using other attachment techniques, the retainer 116 can have a mounting portion of other shapes. For example, the mounting portion of the retainer 116 can be configured as a press fit portion or as one or more rod-shaped members to be attached to the PCB using a through-hole soldering operation.

[0051] The board connector 200 may include at least one fin 104. The fin 104 may extend perpendicularly to the mounting joint, with a fin 104 on each side of the mounting portion of the terminal of the board connector 200. Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 3 , the board connector 200 includes seven (7) fins such that a fin is positioned on each side of the six (6) terminals in the board connector 200. The cable connector 300 may include an insulating housing 114 into which a terminal position assurance device (TPA) 108 is inserted. At least one terminal 106 may be inserted into the TPA 108. Figure 1 1 shows a state of the interconnect system in which the TPA 108 has been inserted into the insulating housing 114 until the TPA 108 is in a locked position. In this state, the latching features and complementary latching features on the TPA 108 and the terminals ( Figure 1 The TPA 108 is engaged with the terminal 106 and is prevented from disengaging by features of the insulating housing 114. Thus, the TPA 108 can help retain the terminal 106 within the cable connector housing 114, even in harsh environments.

[0052] The cable connector 300 may include other features such as a latch and a connector position assurance device (CPA) 110. The latch ( Figure 1The CPA 110 may be configured to secure the cable connector 300 to the board connector 200 when mated with the board connector housing 112. The CPA 110 may be configured to secure the cable connector 300 to the board connector 200 when mated with the board connector housing 112. If the cable connector 300 is not properly seated within the board connector 200, portions of the board connector 200 may obstruct movement of the CPA 110 toward the board connector 200, such that a greater force may be required to slide the CPA 110 toward the board connector 200, thereby providing feedback to the user that the connectors are not properly mated. Conversely, when the board connector 200 and the cable connector 300 are properly mated, the CPA 110 may slide toward the board connector 200 into a state in which the CPA 110 prevents the latch features and complementary latch features on the board connector 200 and the cable connector 300 from disengaging.

[0053] Figure 2 The first mounting joint (eg, Figure 4 The mounting joint 416a) is mounted to the PCB 102 Figure 1 The board connector 200. Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 1 , the board connector housing 112 has a plurality of channels 202 that open at the mating engagement portion 206 of the board connector 200. Each channel 202 can be configured to receive a columnar member (e.g., Figure 3A Columnar member 302 in.

[0054] The channel 202 may be bounded by a wall 204 configured to be positioned on at least one side of a received post of the cable connector and to bound the channel 202. Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 5 , five (5) walls are shown, such that for six (6) posts of the cable connector, a wall 204 is located on at least one side.

[0055] The lengths of the walls 204 in a direction perpendicular to the mating engagement portion 206 may be the same. In other examples, the lengths of the walls 204 may not be uniform. Figure 2 In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the wall extends between the first side and the second side of the panel connector 200 .

[0056] Figure 3A yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the cable connector 300. Figure 3A In the example shown, the insulating housing 114 has six (6) posts 302. The insulating housing 114 can be provided with a post for each terminal 106, and can have a different number of posts if a different number of terminals are provided.

[0057] Adjacent columns 302 may be separated by gaps 306. Each gap 306 may allow a column 302 of the cable connector 300 to align with the channel 202 and wall 204 of the board connector 200, and each column 302 may be inserted into the channel 202 so that the board connector and the cable connector may mate.

[0058] The post 302 can extend and have a length parallel to the mating direction 304. The TPA 108 can be configured to slide relative to the housing along the mating direction 304 such that the TPA 108 is partially inserted and disposed within the insulating housing 114.

[0059] Figure 3B yes Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of the housing 114 of the cable connector 300. Figure 3B 3 is a rear view showing the interior cavity of the housing 114 into which the TPA 108 may be inserted. In this example, the cavity is divided into channels 308 by the structure defining the column 302. The column 302 of the insulating housing 114 may have channels 308 therein.

[0060] Each channel may be bounded on one or more sides by a wall formed as part of the housing 114. Figure 3B In the example of FIG. 1 , each channel 308 is bounded on four sides by the walls of the housing. Each channel may be configured to receive a protrusion (i.e., a portion) of the TPA 108. Figure 4 The protrusion 408 is received by spacing the protrusion into alignment with the channel, for example, when the TPA is positioned for insertion into the housing.

[0061] The channel 308 may have an inlet 310, a protrusion of the TPA 108 ( Figure 4 , 408) can be inserted into the passage through the entrance 310. The entrance 310 can open toward a second face portion of the connector opposite the mating face portion 314. With this configuration, the TPA 108 can be fully or partially inserted into the housing 114 from the second face portion via movement in a direction parallel to the mating direction. For example, insertion in a direction parallel to the mating direction can avoid the need for an opening in the side of the housing to receive the TPA, which would reduce creepage distances. Instead, the opening in the housing 114 for receiving the TPA 108 is located at a location on the connector housing that would otherwise access conductive structures, such as where the mating contact portion of a mating connector is inserted for mating, or where the cable 106 connected to the terminal exits the housing 114.

[0062] The insulating housing 114 may have a side wall 316 between the mating face 314 and the face having the aperture 310. The side wall 316 may be an insulating portion and may be configured to surround a protrusion of the TPA 108 and / or surround a terminal (e.g., Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the terminals are arranged within the protrusion of the TPA such that the sidewalls 316 surround both the protrusion of the TPA and the terminals within the protrusion.

[0063] The channel 308 may have an entrance 312 located at a mating face 314 and may be parallel to the Figure 3A The entrance 312 located at the mating face portion allows terminals (e.g., Figure 4 The mating contact portion 452 of the cable connector 300 enters the channel and mates with the terminal 452 of the cable connector 300 (eg, Figure 4 450) with.

[0064] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 FIG2 is an exploded view of the interconnection system 100. In the illustrated example, the cable connector 300 has terminals 450, each of which is configured as a female terminal. The board connector 200 has complementary terminals 452 that mate with the terminals 450. In this example, the terminals 452 are configured as male terminals. Figure 4 The terminals 450 and 452 are shown in a mated state, with the male terminal inserted into the female terminal such that the mating portions of each mated pair of terminals are in contact.

[0065] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the terminal 452 has a tail portion 404 that is configured for surface mounting. Figure 4 , a plurality of tails 404 are shown that terminate in feet that can be used during a surface mount soldering operation in which the board connector 200 is soldered to the PCB 102. Figure 4 In the example of FIG. 4 , the board connector 200 is configured as a right-angle connector in which the mating engagement portion of the connector is perpendicular to the mounting engagement portion 416 a. Therefore, the terminal 452 has a middle portion bent at a right angle between the mating contact portion and the tail portion 404 .

[0066] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the terminal 450 is configured to terminate the cable 106. For example, the tail portion 456 of the terminal 450 can be configured to be attached to the cable 106, such as by crimping or soldering. In this example, the cable connector 300 is configured to allow the cable 106 to exit the housing 114 through a surface of the connector that is parallel to and opposite the mating engagement portion.

[0067] The terminals 450 may also include one or more additional features to help position and maintain the terminals in a designed position relative to the housing. For example, a terminal latch feature 402 is shown for each terminal. The shape and function of the terminal latch feature 402 may be similar to the latch feature of the TPA 108 (e.g., Figure 5A 4. The latching feature 506 is complementary to the latching feature 506 in the receptacle terminal 450. In this example, the latching feature 506 comprises a beam that abuts the edge of a metal plate formed in the receptacle terminal 450. Thus, the complementary latching feature 402 can be an opening in the plate into which the latching feature 506 can extend to engage the edge of the plate.

[0068] The inventors have recognized and appreciated the need for a design that provides a greater creepage distance in a board-type connector, as well as the flexible use of a flexible housing, thereby efficiently manufacturing connectors for a variety of applications. A greater creepage distance in a board-type connector can be provided by fins extending from the face of the board-type connector in multiple directions. For example, the fins can typically be arranged in parallel planes perpendicular to the mating engagement of the connector. Each fin can have a portion extending in a direction parallel to the mating direction of the connector and another portion extending perpendicular to the mating direction. One portion of the fin can separate a conductive structure on a first side of a PCB that is associated with mounting the connector terminals to the PCB on which the connector is mounted. A second portion of the fin can separate a conductive structure on a second side of the PCB, opposite the first side, that is associated with mounting the connector terminals to the PCB. The dimensions of each portion of the fin can be designed to provide at least the required creepage distance in each of a variety of connector configurations.

[0069] For example, Figure 4 A connector housing 112 is shown having terminals 452 configured for use with a right-angle connector. However, in the example shown, the housing 112 is also configured to receive vertically mounted terminals configured for use with vertically mounted connectors. Alternatively or in addition, the housing 112 can receive terminals having tails configured as rod-shaped portions for plating through holes for soldering to a PCB. In each configuration, the mating contact portions of the terminals in the board connector 200 can be identical so that, regardless of the configuration, a cable connector having the mating engagement portion described herein can mate with the board connector.

[0070] To support flexibility, Figure 4In the example shown, the board-type connector housing 112 includes face portions 416a and 416b, either of which can be configured as a mounting joint by inserting a terminal having a tail portion suitable for the desired mounting configuration. Thus, the same board-type connector housing 112 can be used to manufacture a connector that can be mounted in two different orientations. When oriented at a right angle, the mounting joint can be located on face portion 416a. When oriented vertically, the mounting joint can be formed on face portion 416b.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, other components of the board connector 200 can be configured to support the flexibility of use of the housing 112. For example, the retainer 116 is shown as having a configuration that can also be installed in two different orientations. The retainer 116 has an exposed mounting portion at each face that can be used as a mounting interface. Figure 4 In the example of FIG, the holder 116 is configured for surface mounting, and the mounting portion is a surface that can be soldered to a pad on a PCB. In this example, the holder surface 462 can be soldered to the PCB in the right-angle connector, and the surfaces 464a and 464b can be soldered to the PCB in the vertical connector.

[0072] The retainer 116 also includes a protrusion 466 that can mechanically couple the retainer 116 to the board connector housing 112. The protrusion 466 can have an outwardly curved shape. More than one protrusion 466 can be included. Figure 4 In the example shown, the retainer 116 includes two protrusions 466 that are bent in opposite directions and are configured to engage opposite sides of the retainer slot 118 of the board connector housing 112 .

[0073] The retainer slot 118 can have an open portion at each face that may be used as a mounting interface. In this example, the slot 118 has a lateral opening to support mounting in different orientations (i.e., vertical and right angles). Thus, retainer face 462 and retainer faces 464a and 464b are exposed. Additional views of the retainer slot 118 can be seen in Figure 12A and Figure 12B .

[0074] exist Figure 4In the example of , TPA108 includes a protrusion 408, and the structure of the protrusion 408, here, a wall 410, defines a terminal receiving space. The protrusion may include a latching component that latches the terminal in the terminal receiving space. For example, TPA108 may include at least three walls 410 to define the terminal receiving space. TPA108 may include six protrusions or any number of protrusions, such as one protrusion for each terminal. When TPA108 is inserted into the housing 114, each protrusion 408 can be an internal column within the column 302 of the housing 114. The internal column can have an internal channel 406 that is configured to accommodate the terminal 450, wherein the wall 410 constrains the terminal 450. The terminal 450 can be configured to have a mating contact portion that is arranged within the corresponding internal channel.

[0075] The insulating housing 114 of the cable connector can have a cavity 412, such as an open space, configured to receive the TPA 108. Thus, the TPA 108 can have a body 414 configured to nest within the cavity 412. Each protrusion 408 can extend from the body 414.

[0076] Figure 5A and Figure 5B yes Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative implementation of the interconnect system 100 in which terminals in a board-mounted connector of the interconnect system have different tail configurations. Figure 5A The interconnect system includes a through-hole tail 516, and Figure 5B The interconnect system includes a surface mount tail 404. Thus, Figure 5B and Figure 4 The configuration shown corresponds. Figure 5A The same components are shown except that the terminal 452 has been replaced by a terminal having a tail portion 516 .

[0077] exist Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the cross-sectional view of FIG, the latching feature 506 is visible in each protrusion 408 (see also FIG for additional views of the latching feature 506). Figure 10A and Figure 10B ). The latch feature 506 may include a flexible beam 504 and a protrusion 508 located at a distal end 510 of the flexible beam 504.

[0078] Latch feature 506 can be configured to engage terminal complementary latch feature 402. Terminal complementary latch feature 402 can include an edge 512 forming a plate of terminal 450 that contacts protrusion 508 when in the engaged position. Edge 512 can be an edge adjacent opening 514.

[0079] The complementary latch feature 402 may include an opening 514 configured to receive at least a portion of the latch feature 506 , such as the protrusion 508 , when in the engaged position.

[0080] Without being limited by theory, the latching feature 506 and the complementary latching feature 402 enable the use of the TPA without shortening the creepage path of the cable connector 300. The opening in the insulating portion of the connector that supports the insertion, removal, and operation of the TPA is located in a channel adjacent to the central portion of the terminal, resulting in a shorter creepage path at one end and / or the other end of the terminal. These shorter creepage paths exist to allow conductive structures to enter the continuous housing of the connector, thereby allowing the connector to operate normally and limiting the creepage distance.

[0081] 6A to 6D yes Figure 5A and Figure 5B A view of a right-angle connector with a tail configuration is shown with the creepage paths at various joints and locations labeled. For example, Figure 6A and Figure 6B Shown Figure 5A Through-hole mounting configuration. Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view through the terminals of the connector looking down toward the first surface of the PCB 102 ′ to which the connector is mounted. Figure 6B is a view of a second, opposite side of the PCB showing conductive structures associated with the terminal mounting. These conductive structures may be, for example, a tail portion of the terminal extending through the PCB (e.g., a rod-shaped portion), solder connecting the tail portion to the PCB, and / or pads around the hole through which the tail portion extends. For simplicity, Figure 6B In FIG. 5 , these structures are approximated as tails 516 , but it should be understood that the specific shape of the conductive structures associated with the terminal mounting may vary based on the attachment technique.

[0082] exist Figure 6A In the example shown, four possible creepage paths 602a, 602b, 602c, and 602d are shown. Path 602a shows the creepage path at the mating joint of the board connector and the cable connector. Path 602a in this example crosses the surface of the insulating housing 114 of the cable connector between the two terminals, where high voltage may be present during operation. The length of path 602a may be at least twice the length of the column 302. Therefore, the creepage distance at the mating joint of the cable connector may depend on the length of the column. In some cases, path 602a may be the shortest creepage path in the connector, and the creepage distance of the connector may also depend on the length of the column.

[0083] Path 602b shows a creepage path along the surface of the TPA 108 between two conductive members, the terminals 450, where, in operation, a high voltage may be present. In this example, the length of the creepage path 602b may be at least twice the offset between the ends of the terminals and the surface through which the TPA's wires 106 extend.

[0084] Path 602c illustrates a creepage path along the surface of the board-type connector housing 112 between two terminals at the mating joint 206, where high voltage may be present during operation. In this example, the length of creepage path 602c may be at least twice the length of the wall 204 separating the terminals within the board-type connector. Thus, the creepage distance at the mating joint of the board-type connector may depend on the length of the wall 204. In some cases, path 602c may be the shortest creepage path in the connector, and the creepage distance of the connector may also depend on the length of the wall 204.

[0085] Path 602d illustrates the creepage path at mounting joint 416b, which passes through distal end 604 of fin 104 between two conductive members, namely tail 404, across which high voltage may be present during operation. The length of the path can depend on the offset between the conductive structure on the first side of the circuit board used to mount the tail and the distal end of the fin. For example, path 602d can be approximately twice the offset. In some cases, path 602c can be the shortest creepage path in the connector; the minimum creepage path can traverse at least a portion of fin 104.

[0086] exist Figure 6A In the example, no passage through wall 316 (e.g., Figure 3B Thus, the shortest creepage path in the cable connector will traverse the mating face 314 of the insulating housing (e.g., Figure 3B Likewise, there is no creepage path through the wall 204. Therefore, the shortest creepage path in the board-mounted connector will be across the mating engagement portion 206 or the side opposite the mating engagement portion.

[0087] Figure 6BTwo possible creepage paths 602e and 602f are shown in a configuration where the tail portion 516 is a through-hole tail. Path 602e is a creepage path between two conductive structures on the second surface of PCB 102' that are used to mount the terminal. The conductive structure is approximately the tail portion 516 in this example, and high voltage may be present across the terminal during operation. In this example, creepage path 602e extends around the distal end of fin 104. Therefore, the length of creepage path 602e is at least equal to twice the offset (in a direction parallel to the second surface) between the distal end of the fin and the conductive structure that mounts the adjacent terminal, and high voltage may be present across this conductive structure during operation.

[0088] Also shown is an additional creepage path 602f between the same two conductive structures. Path 602f extends along the surface of fin 104 through the distal end of the fin. In this example, creepage path 602f extends around the distal end of fin 104. Thus, the length of creepage path 602f is at least twice the offset (in a direction perpendicular to the second surface) between the distal end of the fin and the conductive structure used to mount the terminal, where high voltage may be present during operation. Fin 104 can be constructed so that paths 602e and 602f are approximately the same length, and one of paths 602e and 602f can be considered when determining the creepage distance of the connector or connection system. In the event that paths 602e and 602f have different sizes, the shorter path can be considered when determining the creepage distance.

[0089] The creepage distance of an interconnection system (or any part of an interconnection system, such as a connector or a connector joint) can be determined by the shortest creepage path within the interconnection system (or part of the interconnection system). Longer creepage paths may exist, but for simplicity, Figure 6A and Figure 6B For example, Figure 6B A path 602f is shown along and over the distal end of the fin. Figure 6A The corresponding path along and across the fin on the first side of the PCB is not shown in , because in this example, the path is longer than path 602d. However, if the path is shorter than path 602d, it can be considered when determining the shortest creepage path and the creepage distance.

[0090] Similar considerations apply to connectors of other configurations. Figure 6C The first side of the PCB is shown with a board connector mounted thereon by surface mount soldering. Figure 5B The configuration, Figure 5BThe tail 404 is a surface mount tail. Here, two possible creepage paths 602g and 602h are shown. Path 602g extends along one side of the PCB 102, around the fin 104, and across the surface of the PCB 102 between two conductive structures associated with mounting two adjacent terminals where high voltage may be present during operation. In this example, the conductive structure is similar to the tail 404 and its shape is similar to the shape of the fin 104. Figure 6A However, the path 602g is different from the path 602d ( Figure 6A ) Path 602h traverses the surface of fin 104 between two conductive structures associated with mounting two adjacent terminals, across which high voltage may be present during operation.

[0091] Figure 6D A second side of the PCB 102 is shown, with two creepage paths 602i and 602j shown. In this example, the creepage paths are located between conductive structures associated with mounting the terminal to the PCB 102. Although the terminal does not extend through the PCB 102, the conductive structure 606 associated with mounting the terminal can extend to the second side. In this example, for example, a conductive via connected to a surface mount pad on the first side can extend to the second side. In this example, the conductive structure is schematically shown as a rectangle. The conductive structure 606 can be a via extending through the PCB 102, a conductive pad on the via, solder, or a mounting end of the terminal. The conductive structure 606 can be exposed at both sides of the PCB 102, or at one side of the PCB 102. However, it should be understood that these structures can be other shapes, or these structures may not exist in certain implementations of the electronic system. The paths 602i and 602j in this example are similar to Figure 6B Paths 602e and 602f are similar, differing only in that the shape and position of the conductive structures at the ends of the paths may vary based on the connector footprint of the PCB to which the board-mounted connector is mounted. For example, conductive structure 606 may be electrically coupled to a terminal.

[0092] Creepage distance can be achieved by 6A to 6D The creepage distance of a connector or interconnect system can therefore be set by setting the individual dimensions of the individual structures, which determine the length of the shortest relevant path. As an example, the creepage distance can be determined by the length of the panel connector wall housing (e.g. Figure 11A D1 in), offset (e.g. Figure 11A S1 in), and along different axes or surfaces such as Figure 6D The minimum of the other offsets from the conductive structure 606 to the end of the fin 104 is determined.

[0093] 7A to 7F Shows the Figure 3A The method may be performed by first forming a housing subassembly and then inserting the terminal to terminate the cable into the terminal subassembly. The terminal may then be locked in place by operating the TPA of the housing subassembly. Figure 7A … Figure 7F While these steps are shown as being performed sequentially, it should be understood that all steps shown need not be performed in the order shown, nor at the same location or by the same entity. For example, the housing subassembly may be formed simultaneously by one entity, while the terminals may be terminated to the cables at a different time or location, or by a different entity. Similarly, final assembly of the connector by inserting and locking the terminals into the housing subassembly may be performed at another time or location, or by a different entity.

[0094] Figure 7A Assembly of the terminal subassembly is shown starting with the insulating housing 114 .

[0095] exist Figure 7B In the example of FIG, the TPA 108 is at least partially inserted into the insulating housing 114 such that the TPA 108 is not fully nested within the insulating housing 114. The TPA 108 can have one or more latching features that engage with complementary latching features on the housing 114 to hold the TPA in the first open position.

[0096] exist Figure 7C In the example of FIG. 1 , the CPA 110 is coupled to the insulating housing 114. The CPA 110 can also be latched to the housing in a first open position.

[0097] exist Figure 7D In the example shown, the terminal 450 has been crimped to the cable 106 .

[0098] like Figure 7E As shown, terminals 450 terminated to the cable 106 may be inserted into corresponding terminal receiving channels of the TPA 108. The terminals may be inserted until the latching features of the TPA engage with the complementary latching features of the terminals.

[0099] Figure 7F It is shown that the TPA 108 can be pushed so that the TPA 108 slides into the isolating housing 114 and enters the second locking position. When the TPA 108 is pushed into the isolating housing 114 together with the terminal 450, the corresponding part of the isolating housing 114 (e.g., Figure 9CThe surface 902 in the terminal contacts a corresponding protrusion of the TPA at an end portion, which contacts a complementary latching feature. This contact prevents the latching feature and / or the complementary latching feature from moving and disengaging, thereby ensuring that the terminal is securely locked in the connector housing.

[0100] Figures 8A to 8C are cross-sectional views through three positions of the cable connector 300 of FIG. 3 , with the TPA 108 in a first, open position.

[0101] like Figure 8A As shown, in this state, the TPA 108 is partially located within the insulating housing 114 . Figure 8A An example of this could be executing Figure 7E The result of the steps.

[0102] In this state, the TPA 108 can slide within the housing 114, but the housing and / or the TPA can be configured to prevent the TPA from being withdrawn from the housing 114. In this example, the latch feature 802 of the TPA is disposed within a hole 804 in the housing 114, which is configured to receive the latch feature 802. The latch feature 802 can include, for example, a flexible beam such that the flexible beam can deflect, thereby enabling the TPA 108 to be inserted into the illustrated state. Figure 8A , the latch feature 802 is engaged. When the latch feature 802 is located within the aperture 804 and a force is applied to the TPA 108 in a direction away from the insulating housing 114, the surface of the insulating housing within the aperture 804 acts as the TPA latch feature and contacts the latch feature 802, thereby preventing removal of the TPA 108. Although Figure 8A In the example shown, the latch feature 802 is located on the TPA 108 , but the latch feature 802 may be located on the insulating housing 114 and the hole 804 may be located in the TPA 108 .

[0103] The latching function can include preventing movement in one or more directions, such that the latching feature 802 is used to prevent the TPA 108 from moving out of the insulating housing 114. The TPA latching feature and the latching feature 802, when engaged, provide a first retaining force for at least partially retaining the TPA within the cavity 412. In some implementations, when the TPA 108 is in the open position, the first retaining force can be greater than the force required to extract the terminal 450 from the TPA 108. For example, the force can be the force required to pull the cable 106 to deflect the beam 504 that engages the terminal terminated to the cable 106. With the latching feature 802 engaged, at least one terminal can be extracted from the face of the TPA 108.

[0104] Additional latching features and complementary features may be provided to retain the TPA 108 in the locked position. Figure 8BIn the example of , the latch feature 806 is located on the side of the TPA 108 opposite the latch feature 802. The insulating housing can have a hole 808 located on the side of the insulating housing opposite the hole 804. The hole 808 can be configured to receive the latch feature 806 when the TPA 108 is pushed into the locked position. Alternatively, the hole 808 can be located in the TPA 108 and the latch feature 806 can be located on the insulating housing 114. Figure 8B 808 and a force is applied to the TPA 108 in a direction away from the insulating housing 114, the surface of the insulating housing that is located within the hole 808 contacts the latch feature 806 and prevents the TPA 108 (e.g., Figure 9B ) to move it out of the locked position.

[0105] exist Figures 8A to 8C In the example shown, the TPA is in the open position. The latch feature 506 engages the complementary latch feature 402. The latch feature 506 is disposed within a void 810 in the insulating housing 114. The void 810 can be configured to receive the latch feature 506 and can be an open space or can be separated by a divider (not shown). The latch feature 506 can freely move into the void. The insulating housing can include a passageway extending between the void 810 and a mating face portion adjacent to the terminal receiving space.

[0106] Figures 9A to 9C It passes through Figures 8A to 8C Cross-sectional view of the three positions where the TPA is pushed into the locked position.

[0107] exist Figure 9A In the example of FIG, the latch feature 802 is not engaged and is disposed within the aperture 804 without contacting a surface of the insulating housing 114 that limits the aperture 804. In this example, the aperture 804 is located between the first and second sides of the insulating housing 114.

[0108] exist Figure 9B In the example of FIG. 8 , the latch feature 806 is engaged such that at least one surface of the latch feature 806 contacts at least one surface of the insulating housing that restricts the aperture 808 .

[0109] exist Figure 9CIn the example shown, latch feature 506 is engaged and locked. Latch feature 506 engages with complementary latch feature 402 and surface 902 of insulating housing 114. This state can be achieved by pressing terminal 450 into the TPA, causing flexible beam 504 to deflect as the terminal surface straddles protrusion 508. When the terminal surface clears protrusion 508, protrusion 508 can enter opening 514 of the terminal as flexible beam 504 rebounds from the deflected state to the undeflected state. Protrusion 508 can then engage the edge of the terminal that limits opening 514. When the TPA latch feature and the terminal latch feature engage, they can provide a second retaining force that serves to at least partially retain the terminal within the terminal-receiving space defined by TPA 108. As described above, this retaining force can be less than the retaining force provided by latch features 802 and 804 holding the TPA within the housing, allowing the terminal to be removed.

[0110] However, when the latch feature 506 is locked, a greater holding force can be provided. In the locked state, a portion of the insulating housing 114, such as surface 902, resists movement of the latch feature 506 away from the corresponding terminal 450. Surface 902 resists movement of the flexible beam 504 into the deflected state. When the TPA 108 is in the locked state, the latch feature and / or the complementary latch feature can be adjacent to surface 902 within the channel, such that the latch feature and the complementary latch feature are prevented from disengaging.

[0111] Figure 10A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the cable connector of FIG. 3 , with the TPA latched in a locked position.

[0112] exist Figure 10A In the example shown in FIG, the TPA 108 can be unlocked by applying a force at the location indicated by arrow 1002. A tool can be used to facilitate unlocking the TPA 108.

[0113] Figure 10B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the cable connector of FIG. 3 with the TPA latched in an open position.

[0114] exist Figure 10B In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the TPA 108 can be unlocked by applying force at the location indicated by arrow 1004. A tool can be used to facilitate unlocking the TPA 108. Arrow 1004 is located at the intersection of the TPA 108 and the Figure 10A As can be seen, the housing 114 includes a passageway leading to the void 810 to enable a tool to be inserted and the protrusion 508 to be pushed out from the opening 514.

[0115] Figure 11A yes Figure 21 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a board connector 200 mounted to a PCB 102 in a right-angle configuration.

[0116] exist Figure 11A In the example of FIG, the dimensions of the board connector 200 are shown. The pitch P1 can be a center-to-center spacing, such as the spacing between the channels 202 of the board connector housing 112. The pitch P1 can be between 4 mm and 5 mm, and as a non-limiting example, the pitch P1 can be 4.5 mm.

[0117] The offset S1 may be the distance between the end of the terminal 404 and the distal end of the fin 104. In this example, the offset S1 may be measured perpendicular to the mounting interface of the board connector 200. The offset S1 may be any value within a range of 1 mm to 10 mm, for example.

[0118] The terminals 404 may have mating contact portions 1102 disposed within corresponding channels 202. The mating contact portions 1102 may be configured to mate with the terminals, for example. Figure 4 Terminal 450 is electrically connected.

[0119] The terminal 452 can have a mounting portion 1104 extending from the insulating housing 112. The mounting portion 1104 can be configured to be mounted to the PCB 102 for use in a mounting joint (e.g., Figure 4 416a or 416b) in the board connector housing 112, and thus are mounted at the first side or the second side of the board connector housing 112. The mounting portions 1104 can be arranged to align at the mounting joint. The plurality of fins 104 can be configured such that: when the surface that can be configured as the mounting joint is parallel to the mating joint and when the mounting joint is perpendicular to the mating joint, the plurality of fins 104 separate the mounting portions 1104 of adjacent terminals 404, as shown in FIG. Figure 11A shown.

[0120] Figure 11B yes Figure 11A A side cross-sectional view of the board connector housing. Figure 11B In the example of , the distance D1 is the length of the wall 204 of the channel 202. The distance D1 can be measured in a direction perpendicular to the mating joint.

[0121] As described above, creepage distance is primarily set by dimensions such as D1 and S1. Therefore, there is no need to change the spacing of the terminals within the connector to increase creepage distance. The dimensions of the board connector housing 112 can be changed, including changing the offset S1 and the distance D1. While certain dimensions can be changed, the spacing P1 can remain unchanged and can be predetermined. By changing the dimensions of the offset S1 and the distance D1, the creepage distance can be increased or decreased. To change the offset S1, the dimensions of the fin 104 can be changed. To change the distance D1, the wall 204 can be changed. This capability is particularly advantageous for designers of automotive systems or other systems that may use such connectors.

[0122] For example, a system designer may need to change the creepage distance after the system is designed. For example, it may be determined that a system that is expected to be in a first pollution level may need to be manufactured to withstand different pollution levels. The pollution level may be based on the environment and the amount of foreign particles, such as dust, in the environment that may provide a conductive path. Since the pollution level can affect the creepage distance, a change in the pollution level may require a change in the creepage distance. For example, in order to be able to operate in the case of a higher pollution level, the creepage distance can be increased. In the connector described in this article, this increased creepage distance can be achieved by increasing the dimensions without changing the connector spacing. If the spacing of the connectors remains unchanged, a connector with an increased creepage distance can be mounted to the PCB to replace a connector with a smaller creepage distance. This replacement of parts avoids redesigning the entire assembly including the PCB on which the connector is mounted, thereby providing another way in which the design herein improves efficiency. Clearance issues can also be taken into account by increasing or decreasing these dimensions.

[0123] The same dimensions may also affect the clearance distance. For example, a connector using the technology described herein can be constructed with dimensions that provide a creepage distance of 5 mm or greater and a clearance distance of 8.75 mm on the PCB side of the board connector. This design can prevent arcing on the PCB side of the board connector, even when a 1000V or 6000V pulse is applied to the connector under environmental conditions corresponding to pollution degree 2. The same technology can be used to provide a creepage distance of 12.5 mm or greater or a clearance distance of 12.72 mm or greater. This design can prevent arcing on the PCB side of the board connector, even when a 1000V or 8000V pulse is applied to the connector under environmental conditions corresponding to pollution degree 3.

[0124] Figure 12A yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a board connector 200 positioned to be mounted to a PCB 102 in a right-angle configuration, Figure 12Byes Figure 2 1 is a perspective view of a board connector 200 positioned to be mounted to a PCB 102 in a vertical configuration.

[0125] exist Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the example shown, the fin 104 has a first distal end 1202a and a second distal end 1202b. The insulating housing 112 may have a mating joint and a mounting joint. The mounting joint may be parallel to or perpendicular to the mating joint. When mounted in a right-angle configuration, such as Figure 12A As shown, the second distal end portion 1202b is parallel to the mounting joint. Figure 12B As shown, the first distal end portion 1202a is parallel to the mounting joint. Thus, portions of the fin 104 extend from and are perpendicular to the surface parallel to the mating joint, and portions of the fin 104 extend from and are perpendicular to the surface perpendicular to the mating joint.

[0126] When the board connector 200 is surface-mounted and soldered to the first side of the PCB 102 , the first distal portion 1202 a is located on the first side of the PCB 102 .

[0127] exist Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the example of FIG. 1 , the board connector 200 includes a rod-shaped member 1204a and a rod-shaped member 1204b. Figure 12A and Figure 12B Two rods 1204a are shown in the example, but any number of rods may be included. When mounted in a right angle configuration, such as Figure 12A As shown, rod 1204a is parallel to the mounting joint and rod 1204b is perpendicular to the mounting joint. Figure 12B As shown, rod 1204b is parallel to the mounting joint, while rod 1204a is perpendicular to the mounting joint. The connector layout structure may include portions of rods 1204a and 1204b. When rod 1204a or 1204b is installed, rod 1204a or 1204b may at least partially extend through PCB 102 to a second side opposite the first side to which the surface-mounted board-type connector is soldered. Thus, one rod may extend from a surface parallel to the mating joint and perpendicular to that surface, while the other rod may extend from a surface perpendicular to the mating joint and perpendicular to that surface.

[0128] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the connector in a vertical mounting configuration. Figure 13 In the example of FIG, the contact tail can be a vertically mounted terminal.

[0129] Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of this invention, it is to be appreciated various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

[0130] Example Implementations

[0131] The concepts described herein can be embodied as an electrical connector comprising: an insulating housing comprising a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns comprising a channel extending parallel to a mating direction; a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals comprising a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion being arranged within a corresponding channel of a column of the plurality of columns; and a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device comprising a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions extending into a channel of a corresponding column of the plurality of columns, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions comprises a latch feature, each of the plurality of terminals comprises a complementary latch feature, the complementary latch feature being configured to engage with a latch feature of a protrusion of the plurality of protrusions; and the TPA being configured to slide into the insulating housing in a manner parallel to the mating direction such that the latch feature of the TPA engages with the complementary latch feature of the terminal within the channel of the plurality of columns.

[0132] The electrical connector may optionally include one or more of the following: the insulating housing may include a plurality of gaps between adjacent columns in the plurality of columns. The latching feature of each of the plurality of protrusions may include a flexible beam having a distal end and a protrusion located at the distal end. The complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of terminals may include an opening configured to receive the protrusion of the latching feature within a column in the plurality of columns. The TTPA may be configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to a locked position, wherein, for each of the plurality of protrusions and a corresponding terminal located within the same channel as the protrusion in the plurality of channels, a portion of the insulating housing prevents movement of the latching feature away from the corresponding terminal. Each of the plurality of protrusions may include an internal column having an internal channel that accommodates a terminal in the plurality of terminals. Each of the plurality of protrusions may include at least three walls that constrain the terminal in the plurality of terminals. The TPA may be arranged within the insulating housing such that a corresponding portion of the insulating housing contacts the corresponding protrusion at an end portion, and the end portion contacts the complementary latching feature of the terminal. When the TPA is slid into the isolation housing, at least one opening of the isolation housing is blocked. Each of the plurality of columns may have a length in the mating direction; and the creepage distance is at least twice the length of the column. The isolation housing may have a mating face portion, with entrances to the channels of the plurality of columns positioned at the mating face portion; the isolation housing may have a second face portion opposite the mating face portion, the second face portion including an opening configured to receive the TPA; and the isolation housing may include a side wall located between the mating face portion and the second face portion, the side wall surrounding the plurality of terminals, wherein no creepage path exists that passes through the side wall to a terminal of the plurality of terminals, and the creepage path does not traverse the second face portion or a portion of the mating face portion.

[0133] The electrical connector can be mated with a board-type connector including a board-type connector housing, wherein the board-type connector housing includes a mounting joint and a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels opening at the mating joint of the board connector and being bounded by a wall of the board-type connector housing; a plurality of columns of the insulating housing can be at least partially disposed within corresponding channels of the board-type connector housing; and a minimum creepage path of the board connector can traverse a portion of the mounting joint. The board-type connector housing can include a plurality of fins extending to distal ends at the mounting joint such that the minimum creepage path of the board connector traverses a portion of the fins including the distal ends.

[0134] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns including a channel extending along a mating direction; and a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device including a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions aligned with the channel of a corresponding column in the plurality of columns and including a latch feature, wherein the TPA is configured to slide into the insulating shell in a direction opposite to the mating direction.

[0135] The connector may optionally have one or more of the following: the insulating housing may include a plurality of gaps between adjacent columns in the plurality of columns. The latch feature of each of the plurality of protrusions may include a flexible beam having a distal end and a protrusion located at the distal end. The TPA may be configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to a locked position, in which, for each of the plurality of protrusions and a corresponding terminal located in the same channel as the protrusion in the plurality of channels, a portion of the insulating housing prevents movement of the latch feature away from the corresponding terminal. Each of the plurality of protrusions may include an internal column having an internal channel. Each of the plurality of protrusions may include at least three walls configured to limit insertion of a terminal into the protrusion.

[0136] On the other hand, a method for assembling an electrical connector is provided, wherein the electrical connector includes an insulating housing having a plurality of channels and includes a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the TPA including a plurality of protrusions having a latching feature, the latching feature being associated with each of the plurality of protrusions, the method comprising: inserting a plurality of terminals including complementary latching features into the TPA when the TPA is partially inserted into the insulating housing of the electrical connector and each of the plurality of protrusions is aligned with a corresponding channel of the insulating housing of the electrical connector, so that the complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of terminals engages with the latching feature associated with a corresponding protrusion of the plurality of protrusions; and pushing the TPA into the insulating housing when the plurality of terminals are inserted.

[0137] The method may optionally include one or more of the following: the latching feature of each of the plurality of protrusions may include a flexible beam having a protrusion at a distal end; the complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of terminals may include an edge adjacent to an opening in the terminal; and, for each of the plurality of terminals, inserting the plurality of terminals into the TPA such that the complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of terminals engages the latching feature associated with a corresponding protrusion of the plurality of protrusions may include: deflecting the flexible beam when a surface of the terminal straddles the protrusion; and enabling the protrusion to enter the opening of the terminal when the flexible beam rebounds from a deflected state to an undeflected state. For each of the plurality of terminals, a surface within a corresponding channel may resist movement of the flexible beam into the deflected state. After the TPA is pushed, the surface within the corresponding channel may resist movement of the latching feature away from the corresponding terminal. When the TPA is pushed into the insulating housing, the corresponding portion of the insulating housing may contact the corresponding protrusion at an end portion, which contacts the complementary latching feature of the terminal. The insulating housing may have a mating face portion, where entrances to the passages of the plurality of pillars are positioned; the insulating housing may have a second face portion opposite the mating face portion, the second face portion including an opening configured to receive the TPA; and the TPA may include an insulating portion coupled to the insulating housing, the insulating portion surrounding the plurality of terminals between the mating face portion and the second face portion. The insulating housing may have a mating face portion, where entrances to the passages of the plurality of pillars are positioned; the insulating housing may have a second face portion opposite the mating face portion, the second face portion including an opening configured to receive the TPA; and the minimum creepage path of the electrical connector may traverse a portion of the mating face portion or a portion of the second face portion.

[0138] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including a cavity, a mating face, a plurality of openings through the mating face, and a terminal position assurance device (TPA) latch feature; a TPA, the TPA is arranged in the cavity and includes a body and a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, wherein the body includes a complementary TPA latch feature, each terminal receiving space in the plurality of terminal receiving spaces is aligned with the opening through the mating face and includes a terminal latch feature; a plurality of terminals, each terminal in the plurality of terminals includes a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion is arranged in a terminal receiving space in the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, each terminal in the plurality of terminals includes a complementary terminal latch feature The complementary terminal latch feature is configured to engage with the terminal latch feature within a receiving space in a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, wherein, for each terminal in the plurality of terminals arranged in a corresponding terminal receiving space in the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, the terminal latch feature and the complementary terminal latch feature of the corresponding terminal receiving space are configured to provide a first retaining force when engaged, the first retaining force being used to at least partially retain the terminal within the corresponding terminal receiving space; the TPA latch feature and the complementary TPA latch feature are configured to provide a second retaining force when engaged, the second retaining force being used to at least partially retain the TPA within the cavity; and the second retaining force is greater than the first retaining force.

[0139] The connector may optionally have one or more of the following: a terminal latch feature and a complementary terminal latch feature can engage so that a protrusion of the terminal latch feature is disposed in an opening of a corresponding complementary terminal latch feature. A TPA latch feature and a complementary TPA latch feature can engage so that a protrusion of the complementary TPA latch feature is disposed in an opening of a corresponding TPA latch feature. The terminal latch feature may include a flexible beam having a distal end and a protrusion located at the distal end. The TPA may be configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to a locked position such that a portion of the insulating housing blocks movement of the terminal latch feature away from the corresponding terminal. The insulating housing may include a void adjacent to the terminal latching features of the plurality of terminal receiving spaces; the TPA may be configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to an open position such that the terminal latching features are free to move into the void; the TPA latching feature and the complementary TPA latching feature may be a first TPA latching feature and a first complementary TPA latching feature; the insulating housing and the TPA may further include a second TPA latching feature and a second complementary TPA latching feature; and the second TPA latching feature and the second complementary TPA latching feature may be configured to engage when the TPA is in the open position. The insulating housing includes a plurality of passages extending between the mating face and the void adjacent to the terminal receiving spaces.

[0140] On the other hand, a method for operating an electrical connector is provided, wherein the electrical connector includes a connector housing, the connector housing includes a mating face and a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device is configured to latch to the connector housing through a TPA latching feature, the TPA includes a body having a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, the plurality of terminal receiving spaces being configured to receive corresponding terminals of a plurality of terminals through a first face of the TPA, the method may include: sliding the TPA into the connector housing to engage the TPA latching feature; and pulling out at least one of the plurality of terminals through the first face of the TPA when the TPA latching feature is engaged.

[0141] The method may optionally include one or more of the following: the method may further include: disengaging a TPA latch feature; and withdrawing the TPA from the connector housing with the TPA latch feature disengaged. Engaging the TPA latch feature may include: inserting a portion of a flexible beam on one of the TPA and the housing into an opening in the other of the TPA and the housing. The TPA latch feature may be a first TPA latch feature; the electrical connector may include a second TPA latch feature; the second TPA latch feature may be configured to retain the TPA in a locked position relative to the connector housing, in which a portion of the connector housing prevents movement of a terminal latch of the TPA; and the method may further include: disengaging the second TPA latch feature before sliding the TPA into the connector housing.

[0142] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, which may include a plurality of channels opening at a mating joint of the connector and including a plurality of fins; and a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including: a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion being arranged in a corresponding channel of the plurality of channels, and a mounting portion, the mounting portion extending from the insulating shell and being configured for mounting to a printed circuit board at the mounting joint, wherein the mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint; and the plurality of fins being configured such that: when the mounting joint is parallel to the mating joint and when the mounting joint is perpendicular to the mating joint, the fins of the plurality of fins separate the aligned mounting portions of adjacent terminals.

[0143] The connector may optionally have one or more of the following: the insulating housing may include a first surface parallel to the mating engagement portion and a second surface perpendicular to the mating engagement portion; at least a first portion of the fins of the plurality of fins extends from the first surface and is perpendicular to the first surface, and at least a second portion of the fins of the plurality of fins extends from the second surface and is perpendicular to the second surface. The insulating housing may include a first mounting rod extending from the first surface and is perpendicular to the first surface; and the insulating housing may include a second mounting rod extending from the second surface and is perpendicular to the second surface. The insulating housing may be configured to receive a plurality of terminals, the plurality of terminals including surface mount tails or through-hole tails. The insulating housing may be configured to receive a plurality of terminals, the plurality of terminals being right-angle terminals or vertically mounted terminals.

[0144] On the other hand, the electrical connector may include: a board connector housing, the board connector housing including a plurality of channels, wherein the board connector housing includes a first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion can be configured as a mounting joint portion located at the first side portion, and the second side portion is transverse to the first side portion and can be configured as a mounting joint portion located at the second side portion.

[0145] The electrical connector may optionally have one or more of the following: the electrical connector may include a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including: a mating contact portion arranged in a corresponding channel of the plurality of channels; and a mounting portion extending from the board connector housing and configured to be mounted to a printed circuit board at a mounting joint located at the first side or the second side. The mounting portions of the plurality of terminals may be arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint. The plurality of channels may be open at the mating joint of the electrical connector. The board connector housing may include a plurality of fins, the plurality of fins being configured such that: when the mounting joint is located at the first side and when the mounting joint is located at the second side, the plurality of fins separate the aligned mounting portions of adjacent terminals. The insulating housing may be configured to receive a plurality of terminals, the plurality of terminals including surface mount tails or through-hole tails.

[0146] On the other hand, the connector may include: an insulating shell, the insulating shell including a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns including a channel extending along a mating direction and including an opening located at a mating joint of the connector; a terminal position assurance device (TPA), the terminal position assurance device including a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions extending into a channel of a corresponding column among the plurality of columns; and a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals being at least partially arranged within a channel of a corresponding column among the plurality of columns and engaging with a corresponding protrusion among the plurality of protrusions; wherein the TPA is configured to slide into the insulating shell in a direction opposite to the mating direction; and for terminals having a predetermined spacing at the mating joint, the creepage distance at the mating joint of the connector depends on the length of each of the plurality of columns.

[0147] The electrical connector may optionally have one or more of the following: the connector may be mated with a board connector. The board connector may include a board connector housing including a mounting joint and a plurality of fins extending from the mounting joint, wherein a fin of the plurality of fins separates adjacent terminals of the plurality of terminals. The minimum creepage path for the board connector may traverse at least a portion of a fin of the plurality of fins. Each of the plurality of terminals may include a mating contact portion, the mating contact portion being arranged within a channel of a corresponding columnar member of the plurality of columns. The insulating housing may include a plurality of gaps, each of the plurality of gaps being arranged between adjacent columns of the plurality of columns. Each of the plurality of protrusions may include an internal columnar member having an internal channel, the internal channel accommodating a terminal of the plurality of terminals.

[0148] Another aspect is a connector configured to be mounted on a first side of a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board having a second side opposite to the first side and a connector arrangement structure including a conductive structure, the conductive structure being used to electrically connect to terminals of the connector, the terminals being exposed at the first and second sides of the printed circuit board, the connector may include: an insulating housing, the insulating housing including: a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels opening at a mating engagement portion of the connector; and a plurality of fins, the plurality of fins including: a first portion extending from the insulating housing in a first direction to a first distal end portion; and a second portion extending from the insulating housing in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to a second distal end portion; and a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including: a mating contact portion, the mating contact portions being arranged in a corresponding position in the plurality of channels. within a channel, wherein the respective channel comprises a wall having a length of a first distance in a direction perpendicular to the mating joint, and a mounting portion extending from the insulating housing and configured for mounting to a printed circuit board at the mounting joint, wherein the mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint; the plurality of fins are configured such that: a first portion of the plurality of fins separates aligned mounting portions of adjacent terminals on a first side; the mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are offset from a first distal end of the fins by a second distance; a second portion of the plurality of fins separates adjacent conductive structures of the connector arrangement structure on a second side; and the conductive structure of the connector arrangement structure on the second side is offset from the second distal end of the fins by a third distance; and a creepage distance of the connector is determined by the smaller of the first distance, the second distance, and the third distance.

[0149] The connector may optionally have one or more of the following: a wall may be located between the third side and the fourth side; and there is no creepage path that passes through the wall to a terminal among the plurality of terminals that does not traverse the third side or the fourth side. The connector may be configured for surface mount soldering to a first side of a printed circuit board; and the fin may be configured such that when the connector is surface mount soldered to the first side of the printed circuit board, the first distal end of the fin is located on the first side of the printed circuit board. The mounting portion of each of the plurality of terminals may include a rod-shaped portion; and the conductive structure of the connector arrangement structure located on the second side of the board may include portions of the rod-shaped portions of the plurality of terminals that extend through the second side of the printed circuit board. The first direction may be perpendicular to the mating engagement portion.

[0150] The technology described herein can be used with connectors having configurations other than those described above. For example, the technology described herein can be used with mezzanine connectors or backplane connectors. Such alternative connector configurations can be used with all or any suitable subset of the features described herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that all structures, materials, and construction techniques described herein can be used together, but in certain embodiments, some or all of the structures, materials, or techniques may be omitted.

[0151] Such changes or modifications are intended to be part of this disclosure and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Furthermore, while the advantages of the present invention have been noted, it should be understood that not every embodiment of the present invention will include all of the advantages described. Certain embodiments may not achieve any of the advantages described herein, and in some cases, may not. Accordingly, the foregoing description and accompanying drawings are for reference only.

[0152] The various aspects of the present invention may be used alone, in combination, or in various arrangements not specifically discussed in the foregoing embodiments. Therefore, the application of the various aspects of the present invention is not limited to the details and arrangements of components set forth in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings. For example, aspects described in one embodiment may be combined in any manner with aspects described in other embodiments.

[0153] In the claims, the use of ordinal numbers such as "first", "second", "third" and the like to modify claim elements does not in itself indicate the priority, precedence or order of one claim element relative to another claim element, nor does it indicate the temporal order of the actions of performing the method. Instead, it serves only as a label to distinguish one claim element with a specific name from another element with the same name (but using an ordinal number), thereby distinguishing the claim elements.

[0154] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to be limited to dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0155] The indefinite articles "a" and "an" as used in this specification and claims should be understood to mean "at least one" unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0156] As used in this specification and claims, the phrase "at least one" when referring to a list of one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more elements in the list of elements, but does not necessarily include at least one element of every element explicitly listed in the list of elements, nor does it exclude any combination of elements in the list of elements. This limitation also allows for the optional presence of other elements in addition to the elements explicitly listed in the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether or not such elements are related to the elements explicitly listed.

[0157] The phrase "and / or" as used in this specification and claims should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so connected together, that is, these elements are present in a connected manner in some cases and in a separated manner in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be understood in the same way, that is, "one or more" of the elements so connected together. In addition to the elements explicitly specified by the "and / or" clause, other elements may optionally be present, whether or not these elements are related to the elements explicitly specified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when referring to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with open language such as "comprising", in one embodiment, it may refer to only A (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, it may refer to only B (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, it may refer to both A and B (optionally including other elements); and so on.

[0158] As used in this specification and claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" should be understood to be inclusive, i.e., including at least one of a plurality of elements or a series of elements, but also including more than one element, and optionally including other unlisted items. Only terms that clearly indicate the opposite meaning, such as "only one of..." or "exactly one of...", or "consisting of..." used in the claims, refer to including exactly one element of a plurality of elements or a series of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein should be understood to indicate an exclusive choice (i.e., "one or the other, but not both") only when it is preceded by an exclusive term such as "any one," "one of...", "only one of..." or "exactly one of...". When "consisting primarily of..." is used in the claims, it should have the usual meaning in the field of patent law.

[0159] In addition, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "includes," "comprising," "having," "containing," "involving" and their variations herein is intended to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as other items.

Claims

1. An electrical connector, comprising: An insulating housing, the insulating housing comprising a plurality of columnar members, each of the plurality of columnar members comprising a channel extending parallel to the mating direction; a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including a mating contact portion disposed within a corresponding channel of a column of the plurality of columns; and a terminal position assurance device (TPA) comprising a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions extending into a channel of a corresponding columnar member of the plurality of said columns, in, Each of the plurality of protrusions includes a latching feature, and each of the plurality of terminals includes a complementary latching feature configured to engage with the latching feature of a protrusion of the plurality of protrusions; as well as The TPA is configured to slide into the insulating housing in a manner parallel to the mating direction such that latching features of the TPA engage complementary latching features of the terminals within the channels of the plurality of posts.

2. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein The insulating shell includes a plurality of gaps located between adjacent columns among the plurality of columns.

3. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein The latch feature of each of the plurality of protrusions includes a flexible beam having a distal end and a protrusion at the distal end.

4. The electrical connector according to claim 3, wherein: The complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of terminals includes an opening configured to receive a protrusion of the latching feature within a post of the plurality of posts.

5. The electrical connector according to claim 3, wherein: The TPA is configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to a locked position wherein, for each of the plurality of protrusions and a corresponding terminal within the same channel as the protrusion in the plurality of channels, a portion of the insulating housing prevents movement of the latch feature away from the corresponding terminal. The electrical connector according to claim 1 , wherein: Each of the plurality of protrusions includes an inner column having an inner passage that receives a terminal of the plurality of terminals.

7. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein Each of the plurality of protrusions includes at least three walls that restrict a terminal of the plurality of terminals.

8. The electrical connector according to claim 5, wherein The TPA is disposed within the insulating housing such that corresponding portions of the insulating housing contact corresponding protrusions at end portions, and the end portions contact complementary latching features of the terminals.

9. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein: When the TPA is slid into the insulating housing, at least one opening of the insulating housing is blocked.

10. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein Each of the plurality of columnar members has a length in the mating direction; and The creepage distance is at least twice the length of the column.

11. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein The insulating shell has a mating surface, and the entrances of the channels of the plurality of columnar members are positioned at the mating surface; The insulating housing has a second face portion opposite the mating face portion, the second face portion including an opening configured to receive the TPA; and The insulating housing includes a side wall located between the mating surface and the second surface, the side wall surrounding the plurality of terminals, and There is no creepage path that passes through the side wall to a terminal of the plurality of terminals that does not traverse a portion of the second face portion or the mating face portion.

12. The electrical connector according to claim 11, wherein the electrical connector is mated with a board-type connector including a board-type connector housing, The board connector housing includes a mounting engagement portion and a plurality of channels, the plurality of channels opening at a mating engagement portion of the board connector and being bounded by a board connector housing wall; The plurality of columns of the insulating housing are at least partially arranged in corresponding channels of the board connector housing; and A minimum creepage path of the board-mounted connector traverses a portion of the mounting engagement portion.

13. The electrical connector according to claim 12, wherein the electrical connector is matched with the board-type connector, The board connector housing includes a plurality of fins extending to distal ends at the mounting joint such that a minimum creepage path of the board connector traverses portions of the fins including the distal ends.

14. A connector, comprising: An insulating shell, the insulating shell comprising a plurality of columnar members, each of the plurality of columnar members comprising a channel extending along a mating direction; as well as a terminal position assurance device (TPA) comprising a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions being aligned with a channel of a corresponding one of the plurality of posts and comprising a latching feature, The TPA is configured to slide into the insulating housing in a direction opposite to the mating direction.

15. The connector according to claim 14, wherein The insulating shell includes a plurality of gaps located between adjacent columns among the plurality of columns.

16. The connector according to claim 14, wherein The latch feature of each of the plurality of protrusions includes a flexible beam having a distal end and a protrusion at the distal end.

17. The connector according to claim 16, wherein The TPA is configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to a locked position wherein, for each of the plurality of protrusions and a corresponding terminal within the same channel as the protrusion in the plurality of channels, a portion of the insulating housing prevents movement of the latch feature away from the corresponding terminal.

18. The connector according to claim 14, wherein Each of the plurality of protrusions includes an inner cylinder having an inner passage.

19. The connector according to claim 14, wherein Each of the plurality of protrusions includes at least three walls configured to limit insertion of a terminal into the protrusion.

20. A method of assembling an electrical connector comprising an insulating housing having a plurality of channels and comprising a terminal position assurance apparatus (TPA), the TPA comprising a plurality of protrusions having a latching feature associated with each of the plurality of protrusions, the method comprising: With the TPA partially inserted into the insulating housing of the electrical connector and each of the plurality of protrusions aligned with a corresponding channel of the insulating housing of the electrical connector, inserting a plurality of terminals including complementary latching features into the TPA such that the complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of terminals engages with a latching feature associated with a corresponding protrusion of the plurality of protrusions; as well as With the terminals inserted, the TPA is pushed into the insulating housing.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein Pushing the TPA into the insulating housing with multiple terminals inserted includes positioning the TPA within the insulating housing so that the latching feature and / or the complementary latching feature are positioned adjacent to a surface within the corresponding channel that prevents the latching feature from disengaging from the complementary latching feature.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein The latch feature of each of the plurality of protrusions includes a flexible beam having a protrusion at a distal end; the complementary latching feature of each of the plurality of said terminals including an edge adjacent to the opening in said terminal; as well as For each terminal of the plurality of terminals, inserting the plurality of terminals into the TPA such that a complementary latching feature of each terminal of the plurality of terminals engages a latching feature associated with a corresponding protrusion of the plurality of protrusions includes: deflecting the flexible beam when the surface of the terminal rides on the protrusion; as well as The projection is enabled to enter the opening of the terminal when the flexible beam rebounds from the deflected state toward the undeflected state.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein For each of the plurality of terminals, The surface portion within the corresponding channel resists movement of the flexible beam into the deflected state.

24. The method according to claim 21, wherein After the TPA is pushed, the surface portion within the corresponding channel resists movement of the latch feature away from the corresponding terminal.

25. The method according to claim 20, wherein When the TPA is pushed into the insulating housing, corresponding portions of the insulating housing contact corresponding protrusions at end portions that contact complementary latching features of the terminals.

26. The method according to claim 20, wherein The insulating shell has a mating surface, and the entrances of the channels of the plurality of columnar members are positioned at the mating surface; The insulating housing has a second face portion opposite the mating face portion, the second face portion including an opening configured to receive the TPA; as well as The TPA includes an insulating portion coupled to the insulating housing, the insulating portion surrounding the plurality of terminals between the mating surface portion and the second surface portion.

27. The method according to claim 20, wherein The insulating shell has a mating surface, and the entrances of the channels of the plurality of columnar members are positioned at the mating surface; The insulating housing has a second face portion opposite the mating face portion, the second face portion including an opening configured to receive the TPA; and The minimum creepage path of the electrical connector traverses a portion of the mating face portion or a portion of the second face portion.

28. A connector, comprising: an insulating housing comprising a cavity, a mating face portion, a plurality of openings through the mating face portion, and a terminal position assurance (TPA) latch feature; a TPA disposed within the cavity and comprising a body and a plurality of terminal receiving spaces, wherein the body includes a complementary TPA latching feature, each of the plurality of terminal receiving spaces being aligned with an opening through the mating face portion and including a terminal latching feature; a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals including a mating contact portion disposed within a terminal receiving space of the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, each of the plurality of terminals including a complementary terminal latching feature configured to engage with the terminal latching feature within a receiving space of the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, in, for each terminal of the plurality of terminals disposed within a corresponding terminal receiving space of the plurality of terminal receiving spaces, the complementary terminal latching feature and the terminal latching feature of the corresponding terminal receiving space are configured to provide a first retention force when engaged, the first retention force being operable to at least partially retain the terminal within the corresponding terminal receiving space; the TPA latch feature and the complementary TPA latch feature being configured to provide a second retention force when engaged, the second retention force being operable to at least partially retain the TPA within the cavity; and The second holding force is greater than the first holding force.

29. The connector according to claim 28, wherein The terminal latching feature and the complementary terminal latching feature engage such that the protrusion of the terminal latching feature is disposed in the opening of the corresponding complementary terminal latching feature.

30. The connector according to claim 28, wherein The TPA latch feature and the complementary TPA latch feature engage such that the protrusion of the complementary TPA latch feature is disposed in the opening of the corresponding TPA latch feature.

31. The connector according to claim 28, wherein The terminal latch feature includes a flexible beam having a distal end and a protrusion at the distal end.

32. The connector according to claim 28, wherein The TPA is configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to a locked position such that a portion of the insulating housing resists movement of the terminal latching feature away from the corresponding terminal.

33. The connector according to claim 32, wherein the insulating housing including a void adjacent the terminal latching features of the plurality of terminal receiving spaces; the TPA being configured to slide relative to the insulating housing to an open position such that the terminal latching feature is free to move into the void; The TPA latch feature and the complementary TPA latch feature are a first TPA latch feature and a first complementary TPA latch feature; The insulating housing and the TPA further include a second TPA latch feature and a second complementary TPA latch feature; as well as The second TPA latch feature and the second complementary TPA latch feature are configured to engage when the TPA is in the open position.

34. The connector according to claim 33, wherein The insulating housing includes a plurality of passageways extending between the mating surface portion and a void adjacent the terminal receiving space.

35. A method of operating an electrical connector, the electrical connector comprising a connector housing, the connector housing including a mating face and a terminal position assurance apparatus (TPA), the terminal position assurance apparatus configured to latch to the connector housing via a TPA latching feature, the TPA comprising a body having a plurality of terminal receiving spaces configured to receive corresponding terminals of a plurality of terminals via a first face of the TPA, the method comprising: sliding the TPA into the connector housing to engage the TPA latch feature; as well as With the TPA latch feature engaged, at least one of the plurality of terminals is extracted through the first face portion of the TPA.

36. The method of claim 35, further comprising: disengaging the TPA latch feature; as well as With the TPA latching feature disengaged, the TPA is withdrawn from the connector housing.

37. The method according to claim 35, wherein Engaging the TPA latch feature includes inserting a portion of a flexible beam on one of the TPA and the housing into an opening in the other of the TPA and the housing.

38. The method of claim 35, wherein: the TPA latch feature being a first TPA latch feature; The electrical connector includes a second TPA latch feature; the second TPA latch feature being configured to retain the TPA in a locked position relative to the connector housing, wherein a portion of the connector housing prevents movement of a terminal latch of the TPA; as well as The method also includes disengaging the second TPA latch feature before sliding the TPA into the connector housing.

39. A connector, comprising: An insulating shell, the insulating shell comprising: a plurality of channels opening at a mating joint of the connector; and a plurality of fins; and A plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals comprising: a mating contact portion disposed within a corresponding channel of the plurality of channels, and a mounting portion extending from the insulating housing and configured for mounting to a printed circuit board at a mounting joint, in, The mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint; and The plurality of fins are configured such that fins of the plurality of fins separate the mounting portions of aligned adjacent terminals when the mounting engagement portion is parallel to the mating engagement portion and when the mounting engagement portion is perpendicular to the mating engagement portion.

40. The connector according to claim 39, wherein The insulating shell includes a first surface parallel to the mating engagement portion and a second surface perpendicular to the mating engagement portion; At least a first portion of a fin of the plurality of fins extends from and is perpendicular to the first surface, and At least a second portion of a fin in the plurality of fins extends from the second surface and is perpendicular to the second surface.

41. The connector according to claim 39, wherein The insulating housing includes a first mounting rod extending from the first surface and perpendicular to the first surface; and The insulating housing includes a second mounting rod extending from the second surface and perpendicular to the second surface.

42. The connector according to claim 39, wherein The insulating housing is configured to receive a plurality of the terminals, wherein the plurality of the terminals include surface mount tails or through-hole tails.

43. The connector according to claim 39, wherein The insulating housing is configured to receive a plurality of the terminals, which are right-angle terminals or vertically mounted terminals.

44. An electrical connector, comprising: A board-type connector housing, the board-type connector housing comprising a plurality of channels, in, The board connector housing includes a first side portion that is configurable as a mounting interface at the first side portion and a second side portion that is transverse to the first side portion and is configurable as a mounting interface at the second side portion.

45. The electrical connector according to claim 44, further comprising a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals comprising: a mating contact portion disposed within a corresponding channel of the plurality of channels, and A mounting portion extends from the board connector housing and is configured to be mounted to a printed circuit board at the mounting engagement portion at the first side or the second side.

46. The electrical connector according to claim 45, wherein The mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint.

47. The electrical connector according to claim 46, wherein The plurality of channels are open at the mating interface of the electrical connector.

48. The electrical connector according to claim 47, wherein The board connector housing includes a plurality of fins configured to separate the mounting portions of aligned adjacent terminals when the mounting engagement portion is located at the first side and when the mounting engagement portion is located at the second side.

49. The electrical connector according to claim 48, wherein The insulating housing is configured to receive a plurality of the terminals, wherein the plurality of the terminals include surface mount tails or through-hole tails.

50. A connector, comprising: an insulating housing comprising a plurality of columns, each of the plurality of columns comprising a channel extending in a mating direction and comprising an opening located at a mating engagement portion of the connector; a terminal position assurance device (TPA) comprising a body and a plurality of protrusions extending from the body, each of the plurality of protrusions extending into a channel of a corresponding one of the plurality of columns; as well as a plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals being at least partially disposed within the channel of a corresponding one of the plurality of columns and engaging a corresponding one of the plurality of projections; in, The TPA is configured to slide into the insulating housing in a direction opposite to the mating direction; as well as For terminals having a predetermined pitch at the mating engagement portion, a creepage distance at the mating engagement portion of the connector depends on the length of each of the plurality of pillars.

51. The connector according to claim 50, wherein the connector is mated with a board-type connector, and the board-type connector comprises: A board-type connector housing includes a mounting joint and a plurality of fins extending from the mounting joint, wherein fins of the plurality of fins separate adjacent terminals of the plurality of terminals.

52. The connector according to claim 51, wherein A minimum creepage path for the board-mounted connector traverses at least a portion of a fin of the plurality of fins.

53. The connector according to claim 50, wherein Each of the plurality of terminals includes a mating contact portion disposed within a channel of a corresponding column of the plurality of columns.

54. The connector according to claim 50, wherein The insulating housing includes a plurality of gaps, each of the plurality of gaps being arranged between adjacent columns of the plurality of columns.

55. The connector of claim 53, wherein Each of the plurality of protrusions includes an inner column having an inner passage that receives a terminal of the plurality of terminals.

56. A connector configured to be mounted on a first side of a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board having a second side opposite the first side and a connector arrangement structure including a conductive structure for electrically coupling to terminals of the connector, the terminals being exposed at the first and second sides of the printed circuit board, the connector comprising: An insulating shell, the insulating shell comprising: a plurality of channels opening at a mating joint of the connector; and A plurality of fins, wherein the plurality of fins comprises: a first portion extending from the insulating housing in a first direction to a first distal end; and a second portion extending from the insulating housing in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to a second distal end; and A plurality of terminals, each of the plurality of terminals comprising: a mating contact portion disposed within a corresponding channel of the plurality of channels, wherein the corresponding channel includes a wall having a length of a first distance in a direction perpendicular to the mating engagement portion, and a mounting portion extending from the insulating housing and configured for mounting to the printed circuit board at a mounting joint, in, The mounting portions of the plurality of terminals are arranged to be aligned at the mounting joint; The plurality of fins are configured such that: the first portions of the plurality of fins separating the mounting portions of aligned adjacent terminals on the first side; the mounting portions of the plurality of the terminals being offset from the first distal end portion of the fin by a second distance; The second portions of the plurality of fins separate adjacent conductive structures of the connector arrangement on the second side; and The conductive structure of the connector arrangement on the second side is offset from the second distal end of the fin by a third distance; and The creepage distance of the connector is determined by the smaller of the first distance, the second distance, and the third distance.

57. The connector according to claim 56, wherein The wall is located between the third side portion and the fourth side portion; as well as There is no creepage path that passes through the wall to reach a terminal among the plurality of terminals, the creepage path not passing through the third side portion or the fourth side portion.

58. The connector of claim 56, wherein The connector is configured for surface mount soldering to a first side of a printed circuit board; as well as The fin is configured such that the first distal end of the fin is located on the first side of the printed circuit board when the connector is surface mount soldered to the first side of the printed circuit board.

59. The connector according to claim 56, wherein the connector is combined with the printed circuit board, The mounting portion of each of the plurality of terminals includes a rod-shaped portion; as well as The conductive structure of the connector arrangement structure on the second side of the board includes portions of the rod-shaped portions of the plurality of terminals extending through the second side of the printed circuit board.

60. The connector of claim 56, wherein The first direction is perpendicular to the mating engagement portion.

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