Electrical connector having terminal with locking lance

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector having a terminal with a locking lance. An electrical connector includes a connector housing having a base with terminal cavities and a retention shoulder within each terminal cavity. The terminals are received in the corresponding terminal cavities. Each terminal includes a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal. Each terminal includes a locking lance extending from a body. The locking lance includes a lance arm extending in an axial direction of the terminal and a retaining finger extending laterally from the lance arm to a retaining edge. The retaining edges engage the corresponding retaining shoulders to retain the terminals in the corresponding terminal cavities.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 638766, filed April 25, 2024, the subject of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The main topics in this article concern electrical connectors. Background Technology

[0004] Electrical connectors are used within an electrical connector system to provide electrical connections between various components of the system. For example, electrical connectors can transmit data and / or power across connector interfaces. An electrical connector terminated at the end of a cable is called a cable connector, and the cable transmits data and / or power to / from the electrical connector to a remote location within the system. Cables are terminated to terminals, which are held in a housing for mating with mating electrical connectors. The assembly of electrical connectors can be problematic. For example, properly positioning the terminals within the housing for mating with mating connectors can be difficult. Improperly loaded terminals may suffer damage or improper mating when mated with a mating connector. Some known terminals include locking lances used to position and secure the terminals within the housing. If the pull-out force is exceeded, the locking lances may be damaged. Additionally, locking lances increase the overall length of the terminals, thus increasing the size of the electrical connector. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one embodiment, an electrical connector is provided, comprising a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base includes a retaining shoulder within each terminal cavity. The electrical connector includes terminals received in corresponding terminal cavities. Each terminal includes a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal. The mating end is configured to mate with a mating terminal. The terminating end is configured to terminate with a cable. Each terminal includes a locking spear extending from the body. The locking spear includes a spear arm extending in an axial direction of the terminal and retaining fingers extending laterally from the spear arm to a retaining edge. The retaining edge engages a corresponding retaining shoulder to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

[0006] In another embodiment, an electrical connector is provided, comprising a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base includes a retaining shoulder within each terminal cavity. The electrical connector includes terminals received in corresponding terminal cavities. Each terminal includes a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal. The mating end is configured to mate with a mating terminal. The terminating end is configured to terminate with a cable. Each terminal includes a locking spear extending from the body. The locking spear includes a spear arm extending between a fixed end and a free end. The fixed end is located behind the free end. The locking spear includes retaining fingers extending from the free end that engage the corresponding retaining shoulder to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

[0007] In another embodiment, an electrical connector is provided, comprising a connector housing including a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base. The base extends between a front and a rear portion. The base includes a positioning tube that extends at least the length of each terminal cavity. The base includes a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity anterior to the positioning tube. The electrical connector includes terminals received in corresponding terminal cavities. Each terminal includes a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal. The mating end is configured to mate with the mating terminal. The terminating end is configured to terminate with a cable. The body has a positioning portion received in the positioning tube to coaxially position the terminal in the terminal cavity. Each terminal includes a locking spear extending from the body. The locking spear includes a spear arm that extends forward generally in an axial direction of the terminal. The spear arm is positioned along the positioning portion and received in the positioning tube. The locking spear includes retaining fingers that project outwardly and laterally from the spear arm and extend generally rearward from the spear arm to a retaining edge. The retaining edge engages with the corresponding retaining shoulder to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 The illustration shows an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment, which shows a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector ready to mate with each other.

[0009] Figure 2 The illustration shows an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment, which shows a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector mating together.

[0010] Figure 3 The figure shows an exploded view of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 The figure shows a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 The figure shows a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 The illustration shows an enlarged view of a portion of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 The illustration shows an enlarged view of a portion of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 The figure shows a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 The figure shows a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a terminal according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector mating together.

[0018] Figure 11 This is an enlarged view of a portion of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing one of the terminals positioned within the connector housing.

[0019] Figure 12 This is an enlarged view of a portion of an electrical connector system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing one of the terminals positioned within the connector housing. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Figure 1 The figure illustrates an electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300 ready to mate with each other. Figure 2 The figure illustrates an electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300 mating together.

[0021] Electrical connectors 200 and 300 are configured to mate at a separable mating interface 110. Electrical connector 300 is considered a mating electrical connector for electrical connector 200, and components of electrical connector 300 may be identified hereinafter as "matting" components. Electrical connector 200 is considered a mating electrical connector for electrical connector 300, and components of electrical connector 200 may be identified hereinafter as "matting" components.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, electrical connectors 200 and 300 are cable connectors respectively disposed at the ends of cables 202 and 302. In an exemplary embodiment, electrical connectors 200 and 300 are power connectors configured to transmit power across a separable mating interface; however, electrical connectors 200 and 300 may additionally or alternatively transmit data across the separable mating interface. In various embodiments, electrical connectors 200 and 300 can be used in automotive applications, industrial applications, appliances, or other applications.

[0023] Electrical connector 200 includes retaining terminal 206 ( Figure 3 The connector housing 204 (shown in the diagram) has terminals 206 that terminate with corresponding cables 202. The connector housing 204 extends between a mating end 210 at the front 211 and a cable end 212 at the rear 213. The cable 202 extends from the cable end 212. The mating end 210 is configured to mate with the electrical connector 300.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 200 includes one or more Terminal Position Assurance (TPA) devices 140 coupled to the connector housing 204. The TPA devices 140 ensure that terminals 206 are properly loaded and held within the connector housing 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA devices 140 are coupled to the rear portion 213 of the connector housing 204. A cable 202 extends through the TPA devices 140. Proper installation of the TPA devices 140 provides an installer with assurance that terminals 206 are properly mounted within the connector housing 204.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 210 of the connector housing 204 is configured to insert into the electrical connector 300. Therefore, the electrical connector 200 defines a plug connector, and the mating electrical connector 300 defines a receptacle connector that receives the mating end 210 of the plug connector 200.

[0026] Electrical connector 300 includes connector housing 304 with retaining terminals 306. Terminals 306 terminate with corresponding cables 302. Connector housing 304 extends between a mating end 310 at a front portion 311 of connector housing 304 and a cable end 312 at a rear portion 313 of connector housing 304. Cable 302 extends from cable end 312. The mating end 310 is configured to mate with electrical connector 200.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304 defines a receptacle for receiving the mating end 210 of the electrical connector 200. Therefore, the electrical connector 300 defines a receptacle connector, and the mating electrical connector 200 defines a plug connector.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 300 includes one or more Terminal Position Assurance (TPA) devices 150 coupled to a connector housing 304. The TPA devices 150 ensure that terminals 306 are properly loaded and held within the connector housing 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the TPA devices 150 are coupled to the rear portion 313 of the connector housing 304. A cable 302 extends through the TPA devices 150. Proper installation of the TPA devices 150 provides an installer with assurance that terminals 306 are properly mounted within the connector housing 304.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector 300 is configured to be mounted to another component, such as a panel. For example, the electrical connector 300 may be received in a panel opening in the panel such that the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304 is located at the front of the panel, and the cable end 312 of the connector housing 304 is located at the rear of the panel. The electrical connector 300 includes a latch 317 and a mounting protrusion 315 for securing the electrical connector 300 to the panel. For example, the mounting protrusion 315 may engage the rear side of the panel, and the latch 317 may be latchably engaged to the front side of the panel. The latch 317 is deflectable to allow removal of the electrical connector 300 from the panel. Optionally, the mounting protrusion 315 and the latch 317 may be located at both the top and bottom of the connector housing 304. In alternative embodiments, other types of mounting features may be used to secure the electrical connector 300 to the panel. For example, fasteners may be used to secure the electrical connector 300 to the panel.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, connector housing 304 includes a latching feature 314 for securing electrical connector 300 to electrical connector 200. For example, latching feature 314 may be a latching protrusion extending from a side of connector housing 304. Each latching protrusion may include a latching surface. Connector housing 204 includes a latch 214 that abuts against latching feature 314 to secure electrical connector 200 to electrical connector 300. Latch 214 is located on the opposite side of connector housing 204. Latch 214 is a deflectable latch configured to release from latching feature 314 to allow removal of electrical connector 200 from electrical connector 300.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, a face seal 120 is disposed at a mating interface 110 between electrical connectors 200 and 300. The face seal 120 is configured to be sealingly connected to the front portion 211 of connector housing 204 and to the front portion 311 of connector housing 304. The face seal 120 provides a sealing interface between the electrical connectors 200 and 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the face seal 120 extends circumferentially around the periphery of connector housing 204 and / or connector housing 304. When the electrical connectors 200 and 300 mate, the face seal 120 can be compressed between connector housings 204 and 304. The face seal 120 may be a sealing gasket. In various embodiments, the face seal 120 is made of a rubber material. In various embodiments, cables 202 and / or 302 may be sealed within connector housings 204 and 304, respectively. For example, a cable seal (not shown) may be provided between cable 202 and connector housing 204 and / or between cable 302 and connector housing 304.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connectors are twelve-position electrical connectors 200 and 300. The terminals and cables are arranged in a 4×3 matrix (4 columns × 3 rows). However, in alternative embodiments, more or fewer rows and columns of terminals and cables may be used, such as in a 3×3 matrix (3 columns × 3 rows), a 2×3 matrix (2 columns × 3 rows), a 4×1 matrix (4 columns × 1 row), a 3×1 matrix (3 columns × 1 row), or a 2×1 matrix (2 columns × 1 row). In other embodiments, other types of electrical connectors with different numbers of terminal positions may be provided.

[0033] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of an electrical connector system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The electrical connector system 100 includes a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300, and a face seal 120 between the first electrical connector 200 and the second electrical connector 300. Figure 3 A subset of terminals 206 ready to be loaded into connector housing 204 and one of TPA devices 140 ready to be loaded into connector housing 204 are shown. Figure 3 A subset of terminals 306 ready to be loaded into connector housing 304 and one of TPA devices 150 ready to be loaded into connector housing 304 are shown.

[0034] The connector housing 204 includes a base 220 and a plurality of terminal cavities 230 extending through the base 220. The terminal cavities 230 receive corresponding terminals 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 220 extends between a top 222 and a bottom 224 of the connector housing 204. The base 220 extends between a first side 226 and a second side 228 of the connector housing 204. The base 220 may be generally rectangular in shape. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 220 may have other shapes.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 204 includes a terminal tube 232 extending forward from a base 220 to a front portion 211 of the connector housing 204 and a cable tube 234 extending rearward from the base 220 to a rear portion 213 of the connector housing 204. A terminal cavity 230 opens through the terminal tube 232 and the cable tube 234. A terminal 206 is received in a corresponding terminal tube 232. A cable 202 is received in a corresponding cable tube 234. Optionally, the terminal 206 may extend into the cable tube 234 to connect with the cable 202. In various embodiments, the base 220 may be approximately centered between the front portion 211 and the rear portion 213. For example, the terminal tube 232 may have a length approximately equal to that of the cable tube 234. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 220 may be closer to the front portion 211 or closer to the rear portion 213. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal tube 232 and the cable tube 234 are generally cylindrical. However, in alternative embodiments, the terminal tube 232 and / or cable tube 234 may have other shapes.

[0036] For further reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 (It is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of terminal 206) and Figure 6 and Figure 7 (This is an enlarged view of a portion of terminal 206), each terminal 206 includes a body 250 extending between a mating end 252 and a terminating end 254. The body 250 may be cylindrical, such as tubular. The terminating end 254 is configured to terminate to a cable 202. In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 206 includes a crimping sleeve 256 at the terminating end 254, the crimping sleeve 256 being configured to crimp to the end of the cable 202. In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 206 includes a socket 258 at the mating end 252. The socket 258 is configured to receive terminal 306 ( Figure 3 The pins of the terminal 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 206 is stamped and formed. For example, the terminal 206 may be stamped from a metal sheet and formed into a tubular shape that defines a socket 258 at a mating end 252.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 206 includes mating beams 260 near the front of body 250. Each mating beam 260 is stamped from body 250 and formed with a bent mating interface near its distal end. The mating beams 260 are bent inward to extend into socket 258 to abut terminal 306. The mating beams 260 are deflectable and configured to deflect outward when abutting terminal 306. Such deflection generates an internal spring force that biases the mating beams 260 inward toward terminal 306 to maintain mechanical and electrical connection with terminal 306.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 206 includes a positioning protrusion 262 at the rear of body 250. Positioning protrusion 262 may extend radially outward from body 250. In an exemplary embodiment, positioning protrusion 262 is integrally formed with body 250, such as being stamped and formed together with body 250. Positioning protrusion 262 is used to position terminal 206 in connector housing 204, such as to axially position terminal 206 in terminal cavity 230. Positioning protrusion 262 may be a stop protrusion used to prevent forward movement or loading of terminal 206 in terminal cavity 230 when positioning protrusion 262 bottoms out against a stop surface in terminal cavity 230. Optionally, a plurality of positioning protrusions 262 may be arranged circumferentially around terminal 206.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 206 includes a locking spear 270 extending from body 250. The locking spear 270 is used to secure terminal 206 to connector housing 204. For example, the locking spear 270 is configured to engage portions of base 220, such as a retaining shoulder (not shown), to prevent axial movement of terminal 206 within terminal cavity 230. In an exemplary embodiment, locking spear 270 is integrally formed with body 250. For example, locking spear 270 is stamped and formed from body 250. In the illustrated embodiment, two locking spears 270 are disposed and positioned on opposite sides of terminal 206. Locking spear 270 can be used to coaxially position terminal 206 within corresponding terminal cavity 230, such as to radially center terminal 206 within terminal cavity 230. For example, locking spear 270 may be flexible and configured to be spring-biased against connector housing 204 to center terminal 206 within terminal cavity 230. In an alternative embodiment, the locking spears 270 may be located at other positions. For example, the three locking spears 270 may be offset by 120° to triangulate their coaxial positioning within the terminal cavity 230.

[0040] Each locking spear 270 includes a spear arm 280 and a retaining finger 290 extending from the spear arm 280 to a retaining edge 292. In an exemplary embodiment, the spear arm 280 extends in the axial direction of the terminal 206. For example, the spear arm 280 may extend forward. The spear arm 280 may extend in the direction of the mating end of the terminal 206. The retaining finger 290 extends laterally relative to the spear arm 280. For example, the retaining finger 290 may extend laterally to the axis of the terminal 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining finger 290 projects generally outward and rearward. For example, the retaining finger 290 is bent or folded to extend generally in the opposite direction to the spear arm 280. The retaining finger 290 extends generally toward the terminating end rather than the mating end. A retaining recess 291 is formed between the retaining finger 290 and the spear arm 280. The retaining fingers 290 are configured to engage the connector housing 204 to retain the terminal 206 within the terminal cavity 230. For example, the retaining edge 292 and / or the inner surface of the retaining fingers 290 are configured to engage a retaining shoulder in the terminal cavity 230 to retain the terminal 206 within the corresponding terminal cavity 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining shoulder is configured to receive within a retaining recess 291. The inner surface of the retaining fingers 290 may be angled to resemble the shape of the retaining shoulder to interact and form a locking interface. For example, the retaining shoulder may provide a radially outward force to increase terminal retention when attempting to pull axially to withdraw the terminal 206. The spear arm 280 extends forward from the fixed end 282 to the free end 284. For example, the free end 284 is located in front of the fixed end 282. For example, the free end 284 is positioned as an end portion 254 closer to the rear of the body 250, and the free end 284 is positioned as a mating end 252 closer to the front of the body 250. The retaining finger 290 extends rearward from the free end 284.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the spear arm 280 is separated from the body 250 by a slot 272 along either side of the spear arm 280. The slot 272 is formed by a stamping process to form a locking spear 270 from the body 250. The slot 272 extends to a fixed end 282. The spear arm 280 can deflect within the slot 272. In an exemplary embodiment, the spear arm 280 can be slightly bent outward relative to the body 250, such as to mate with the connector housing 204 when the terminal 206 is inserted into the terminal cavity 230.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking spear 270 is hook-shaped. For example, a retaining finger 290 is folded onto the spear arm 280. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining finger 290 is formed by folding, curling, or bending the retaining finger 290 outward from the distal end or free end 284 of the spear arm 280. The retaining finger 290 is bent to extend rearward from the free end 284 at the front of the locking spear 270. The retaining finger 290 includes a folded or curled portion 294 at the transition from the spear arm 280. A retaining edge 292 is located behind the curled portion 294. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining finger 290 extends from the spear arm 280 at an angle between 90° and 180°.

[0043] Return to reference Figure 3 The connector housing 304 includes a base 320 and a plurality of terminal cavities 330 extending through the base 320. The terminal cavities 330 receive corresponding terminals 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the base 320 extends between a top 322 and a bottom 324 of the connector housing 304. The base 320 extends between a first side 326 and a second side 328 of the connector housing 304. The base 320 may be generally rectangular in shape. However, in alternative embodiments, the base 320 may have other shapes.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a shield 340 that forms a socket 342 for receiving a mating end 210 of the connector housing 204. The shield 340 extends forward from the base 320. The shield 340 is located at the mating end 310 of the connector housing 304. The shield 340 is defined by walls along a top 322, a bottom 324, a first side 326, and a second side 328.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the connector housing 304 includes a terminal tube 332 extending forward from a base 320 to a front portion 311 of the connector housing 304 and a cable tube 334 extending rearward from a base 320 to a rear portion 313 of the connector housing 304. The terminal tube 332 extends into a socket 342. For example, a shield 340 surrounds the terminal tube 332. A terminal cavity 330 is open through the terminal tube 332 and the cable tube 334. A terminal 306 is received in a corresponding terminal tube 332. A cable 302 is received in a corresponding cable tube 334. Optionally, the terminal 306 may extend into the cable tube 334 to connect with the cable 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal tube 332 and the cable tube 334 are generally cylindrical. However, in alternative embodiments, the terminal tube 332 and / or the cable tube 334 may have other shapes.

[0046] For further reference Figure 8 and Figure 9(This is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of terminal 306), each terminal 306 includes a body 350 extending between a mating end 352 and a terminating end 354. The terminating end 354 is configured to terminate to a cable 302. In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 306 includes a crimping sleeve 356 at the terminating end 354, the crimping sleeve 356 being configured to crimp to the end of the cable 302.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 306 includes pin 358 at mating end 352. Pin 358 is configured to be received in terminal 206 ( Figure 4 In the socket 258. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal 306 is stamped and formed. For example, the terminal 306 may be stamped from a metal sheet and formed into a tubular shape having a tapered nose that defines a pin 358 at a mating end 352.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 306 includes a positioning protrusion 362 at the rear of body 350. The positioning protrusion 362 may extend radially outward from body 350. In an exemplary embodiment, the positioning protrusion 362 is integrally formed with body 350, such as being stamped and formed together with body 350. The positioning protrusion 362 is used to position terminal 306 in connector housing 304, such as to axially position terminal 306 in terminal cavity 330. The positioning protrusion 362 may be a stop protrusion used to prevent forward movement or loading of terminal 306 in terminal cavity 330 when the positioning protrusion 362 abuts against a stop surface in terminal cavity 330. Optionally, a plurality of positioning protrusions 362 may be arranged circumferentially around terminal 306.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, terminal 306 includes a locking spear 370. The locking spear 370 is used to secure terminal 306 to connector housing 304. The locking spear 370 may be similar to locking spear 270. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The locking spear 370 is configured to engage portions of the base 320, such as the retaining shoulder (not shown), to prevent axial movement of the terminal 306 within the terminal cavity 330. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking spear 370 is integrally formed with the body 350. For example, the locking spear 370 is stamped and formed from the body 350.

[0050] Each locking spear 370 includes a spear arm 380 and a retaining finger 390 extending from the spear arm 380 to a retaining edge 392. In an exemplary embodiment, the spear arm 380 extends in the axial direction of the terminal 306. For example, the spear arm 380 may extend forward. The spear arm 380 may extend in the direction of the mating end of the terminal 306. The retaining finger 390 extends laterally relative to the spear arm 380. For example, the retaining finger 390 may extend laterally to the axis of the terminal 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining finger 390 projects generally outward and rearward. For example, the retaining finger 390 is bent or folded to extend generally in the opposite direction to the spear arm 380. The retaining finger 390 extends generally toward the terminating end rather than the mating end. A retaining recess 391 is formed between the retaining finger 390 and the spear arm 380. The retaining fingers 390 are configured to engage the connector housing 304 to retain the terminal 306 within the terminal cavity 330. For example, the retaining edge 392 and / or the inner surface of the retaining fingers 390 are configured to engage a retaining shoulder in the terminal cavity 330 to retain the terminal 306 within the corresponding terminal cavity 330. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining shoulder is configured to receive within a retaining recess 391. The inner surface of the retaining fingers 390 may be angled to resemble the shape of the retaining shoulder to interact and form a locking interface. For example, the retaining shoulder may provide a radially outward force to increase terminal retention when attempting to pull axially to withdraw the terminal 306. The spear arm 380 extends forward from the fixed end 382 to the free end 384. For example, the free end 384 is located in front of the fixed end 382. For example, the free end 384 is positioned closer to the rear of the body 350 as an end portion 354, and the free end 384 is positioned closer to the front of the body 350 as a mating end 352. A retaining finger 390 extends rearward from the free end 384. The spear arm 380 can deflect within the slot 372 about the fixed end 384.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the locking spear 370 is hook-shaped. For example, the retaining finger 390 is folded over the spear arm 380 to face a direction generally opposite to that of the spear arm 380. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining finger 390 is formed by folding, curling, or bending the retaining finger 390 outward from the distal end or free end 384 of the spear arm 380. The retaining finger 390 is bent to extend rearward from the free end 384 at the front of the locking spear 370. The retaining finger 390 includes a folded or curled portion 394 at the transition from the spear arm 380. The retaining edge 392 is located behind the curled portion 394. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining finger 390 extends from the spear arm 380 at an angle between 90° and 180°.

[0052] Figure 10This is a cross-sectional view of an electrical connector system 100, showing a first electrical connector 200 and a second electrical connector 300 mating together. Figure 11 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the electrical connector system 100, showing one of the terminals 206 located in the connector housing 204. Figure 12 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the electrical connector system 100, showing one of the terminals 306 located in the connector housing 304.

[0053] Each locking spear 270 includes a generally forward-extending spear arm 280 and a generally rearward-extending retaining finger 290 extending from the spear arm 280 to a retaining edge 292. The spear arm 280 extends forward from a fixed end 282 to a free end 284 in the axial direction of the terminal 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking spear 270 is hook-shaped. For example, the retaining finger 290 is folded over the spear arm 280. The retaining finger 290 extends laterally relative to the spear arm 280, such as obliquely (e.g., bluntly). The retaining finger 290 bends to extend rearward from the free end 284 to the retaining edge 292. The retaining edge 292 is configured to engage the connector housing 204 to retain the terminal 206 within the terminal cavity 230.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the base 220 of the connector housing 204 includes a retaining shoulder 236 within the terminal cavity 230. Figure 11 The retaining shoulder 236 faces forward (e.g., towards the electrical connector 300). The retaining shoulder 236 may be angled, such as a rearward-angled ramp surface. The shape / angle of the retaining shoulder 236 may be complementary to the shape / angle of the retaining fingers 290. The locking spear 270 is configured to engage the retaining shoulder 236 to retain the terminal 206 in the terminal cavity 230. For example, after the locking spear 270 is loaded into the terminal cavity 230 beyond the retaining shoulder 236, the locking spear 270 springs outward to engage the retaining shoulder 236 and prevent the terminal 206 from being pulled out of the terminal cavity 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining shoulder 236 is configured to be received within the retaining recess 291. The inner surface of the retaining fingers 290 may be angled similar to the shape of the retaining shoulder 236 to interact and form a locking interface. For example, when attempting to pull axially to remove terminal 206, retaining shoulder 236 can provide radial outward force to increase terminal retention.

[0055] Each locking spear 370 includes a generally forward-extending spear arm 380 and a generally rearward-extending retaining finger 390 extending from the spear arm 380 to a retaining edge 392. The spear arm 380 extends forward from a fixed end 382 to a free end 384 in the axial direction of the terminal 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking spear 370 is hook-shaped. For example, the retaining finger 390 is folded over the spear arm 380. The retaining finger 390 extends laterally relative to the spear arm 380, such as obliquely (e.g., bluntly). The retaining finger 390 bends to extend rearward from the free end 384 to the retaining edge 392. The retaining edge 392 is configured to engage the connector housing 304 to retain the terminal 306 within the terminal cavity 330.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the base 320 of the connector housing 304 includes a retaining shoulder 336 within the terminal cavity 330. Figure 12 The retaining shoulder 336 faces forward (e.g., towards the electrical connector 200). The retaining shoulder 336 may be angled, such as a rearward-angled ramp surface. The shape / angle of the retaining shoulder 336 may be complementary to the shape / angle of the retaining finger 390. The locking spear 370 is configured to engage the retaining shoulder 336 to retain the terminal 306 in the terminal cavity 330. For example, after the locking spear 370 is loaded into the terminal cavity 330 beyond the retaining shoulder 336, the locking spear 370 springs outward to engage the retaining shoulder 336 and prevent the terminal 306 from being pulled out of the terminal cavity 330. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining shoulder 336 is configured to be received within the retaining recess 391. The inner surface of the retaining finger 390 may be angled similar to the shape of the retaining shoulder 336 to interact and form a locking interface. For example, when attempting to pull axially to remove terminal 306, retaining shoulder 336 can provide radial outward force to increase terminal retention.

[0057] During assembly, terminals 206 and cables 202 are loaded into connector housing 204, such as through rear portion 213. Terminals 206 and cables 202 are loaded into terminal cavity 230 through cable conduit 234. Terminal 206 passes through base 220 into terminal conduit 232. A socket 258 at the mating end 252 of terminal 206 is positioned in terminal conduit 232 for mating with terminal 306. When terminal 206 is fully inserted into connector housing 204, locking spear 270 flexes outward to engage connector housing 204, retaining terminal 206 within connector housing 204. For example, spear arm 280 may spring outward to position retaining finger 290 of locking spear 270 in terminal cavity 230 to abut against retaining shoulder of base 220. Locking spear 270 prevents terminal 206 from being pulled rearward from connector housing 204. In an exemplary embodiment, the positioning protrusion 262 is used to position the terminal 206 in the terminal cavity 230. For example, the positioning protrusion 262 engages a stop shoulder of the connector housing 204 to axially position the terminal 206 in the connector housing 204.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining edge 292 is positioned at a distance 296 from the positioning protrusion 262. This distance may be a predetermined distance for axially positioning the terminal 206 in the terminal cavity 230 for a particular connector housing 204. For example, the distance 296 may be a controlled distance between the retaining shoulder (engaged by the retaining edge 292) and the stop shoulder (engaged by the positioning protrusion 262) to axially position the terminal 206 in the terminal cavity 230. The body 250 is cylindrical or tubular between the retaining edge 292 and the positioning protrusion 262. The portion of the body 250 between the retaining edge 292 and the positioning protrusion 262 is the positioning portion 264 of the body 250. The positioning portion 264 is used to coaxially position the terminal 206 in the terminal cavity 230. For example, the positioning portion 264 may be axially aligned with the central axis of the terminal cavity 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the spear arm 280 of the locking spear 270 is positioned along the positioning portion 264. For example, the spear arm 280 extends along the space between the positioning protrusion 262 and the retaining edge 292. The spear arm 280 centers the terminal 206 within the terminal cavity 230. For example, the base 220 may include a positioning tube 266 that extends at least the length of the corresponding terminal cavity 230. The positioning portion 264 is received in the positioning tube 266 to axially position the terminal 206 within the terminal cavity 230. The spear arm 280 is positioned along the positioning portion 264 and received in the positioning tube 266 to center the terminal 206 within the positioning tube 266. In an exemplary embodiment, both the positioning tube 266 and the positioning portion 264 are cylindrical. The spear arm 280 flexes outward against the positioning tube 266 to radially position the terminal 206 within the positioning tube 266.

[0059] During assembly, terminals 306 and cables 302 are loaded into connector housing 304 through rear portion 313. Terminals 306 and cables 302 are loaded into terminal cavity 330 through cable conduit 334. Terminal 306 passes through base 320 into terminal conduit 332. Pins 358 at mating end 352 of terminal 306 are positioned in terminal conduit 332 for mating with socket 258 of terminal 206. When terminal 306 is fully inserted into connector housing 304, locking spear 370 flexes outward to engage connector housing 304 to retain terminal 306 within connector housing 304. For example, spear arm 380 may spring outward to position retaining finger 390 of locking spear 370 in terminal cavity 330 to abut retaining shoulder of base 320. Locking spear 370 prevents terminal 306 from being pulled rearward from connector housing 304. In an exemplary embodiment, the positioning protrusion 362 is used to position the terminal 306 in the terminal cavity 330. For example, the positioning protrusion 362 engages a stop shoulder of the connector housing 304 to axially position the terminal 306 in the connector housing 304.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining edge 392 is positioned at a distance 396 from the positioning protrusion 362. This distance may be a predetermined distance for axially positioning the terminal 306 in the terminal cavity 330 for a particular connector housing 304. For example, the distance 396 may be a controlled distance between the retaining shoulder (engaged by the retaining edge 392) and the stop shoulder (engaged by the positioning protrusion 362) to axially position the terminal 306 in the terminal cavity 330. The body 350 is cylindrical or tubular between the retaining edge 392 and the positioning protrusion 362. The portion of the body 350 between the retaining edge 392 and the positioning protrusion 362 is the positioning portion 364 of the body 350. The positioning portion 364 is used to coaxially position the terminal 306 in the terminal cavity 330. For example, the positioning portion 364 may be axially aligned with the central axis of the terminal cavity 330. In an exemplary embodiment, the spear arm 380 of the locking spear 370 is positioned along the positioning portion 364. For example, the spear arm 380 extends along the space between the positioning protrusion 362 and the retaining edge 392. The spear arm 380 centers the terminal 306 within the terminal cavity 330. For example, the base 320 may include a positioning tube 366 that extends at least the length of the corresponding terminal cavity 330. The positioning portion 364 is received in the positioning tube 366 to axially position the terminal 306 within the terminal cavity 330. The spear arm 380 is positioned along the positioning portion 364 and received in the positioning tube 366 to center the terminal 306 within the positioning tube 366. In an exemplary embodiment, both the positioning tube 366 and the positioning portion 364 are cylindrical. The spear arm 380 flexes outward against the positioning tube 366 to radially position the terminal 306 within the positioning tube 366.

[0061] During mating, the mating end 210 of connector housing 204 is inserted into a socket 342 at the mating end 310 of connector housing 304. A shield 340 surrounds the mating end 210 of connector housing 204. In an exemplary embodiment, terminal tube 232 is loaded into terminal tube 332. Terminal 206 is mated into terminal 306. For example, pin 358 is loaded into socket 258. Mating beam 260 engages pin 358 of terminal 306 to electrically connect terminal 206 to terminal 306.

[0062] It will be understood that the description above is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) described above may be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. The dimensions, types of materials, orientations of various components, and quantities and positions of various components described herein are intended to define parameters of certain embodiments and are by no means restrictive, but merely exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the description above. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the full scope of the appended claims together with their equivalents. In the appended claims, the terms “comprising” and “therein” are used as common English equivalents of the corresponding terms “including” and “wherein”. Furthermore, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as designations and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Furthermore, the limitations of the following claims are not written in the form of device plus function, and are not intended to be interpreted on the basis of 35 U.S.C. 112(f), unless and until such a limitation expressly uses the phrase “device for…” followed by a statement of function without further structure.

Claims

1. An electrical connector, comprising: A connector housing includes a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base, the base including a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity; as well as A terminal, received in a corresponding terminal cavity, each terminal including a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal, the mating end configured to mate with a mating terminal, the terminating end configured to terminate with a cable, each terminal including a locking spear extending from the body, the locking spear including a spear arm extending in the axial direction of the terminal and a retaining finger extending laterally from the spear arm to a retaining edge, the retaining edge engaging a corresponding retaining shoulder to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

2. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The locking spear is hook-shaped, wherein the spear arm extends generally forward and the retaining finger extends generally backward.

3. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining finger protrudes outward from the distal end of the spear arm to form a retaining recess, the retaining recess being configured to receive the retaining shoulder.

4. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining fingers extend from the spear arm at an angle between 90° and 180°.

5. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The spear arm is separated from the main body through a slot, and the spear arm can deflect within the slot.

6. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The spear arm extends between a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being located behind the free end and fixed to the body, and the retaining finger extending from the free end.

7. The electrical connector according to claim 6, wherein, The fixed end is positioned closer to the termination end, and the free end is positioned closer to the mating end.

8. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The main body includes a positioning protrusion at the rear of the main body, the retaining edge is positioned at a distance from the positioning protrusion, and the spear arm is located in the space between the positioning protrusion and the retaining edge.

9. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The base includes a positioning tube that extends at least the length of the corresponding terminal cavity, the body of the terminal having a positioning portion received in the positioning tube to axially position the terminal in the terminal cavity, and the locking arm being positioned along the positioning portion and received in the positioning tube.

10. The electrical connector according to claim 9, wherein, The positioning tube is cylindrical, and the positioning part of the main body is cylindrical.

11. The electrical connector according to claim 9, wherein, The spear arm bends outward against the positioning tube to radially position the terminal within the positioning tube.

12. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The locking spear is a first locking spear, and the terminal includes a second locking spear opposite to the first locking spear. The first and second locking spears are flexed outward to engage the base and to center the terminal coaxially between the locking spears in the terminal cavity.

13. The electrical connector according to claim 1, wherein, The locking spear engages the retaining shoulder to prevent the terminal from moving axially within the terminal cavity.

14. An electrical connector, comprising: A connector housing includes a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base, the base including a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity; as well as A terminal, received in a corresponding terminal cavity, each terminal including a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal, the mating end configured to mate with a mating terminal, the terminating end configured to terminate with a cable, each terminal including a locking spear extending from the body, the locking spear including a spear arm extending between a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being located behind the free end, the locking spear including retaining fingers extending from the free end, the retaining fingers engaging a corresponding retaining shoulder to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

15. The electrical connector according to claim 14, wherein, The locking spear is hook-shaped, thereby forming a retaining recess between the spear arm and the retaining finger, the retaining recess being configured to receive the retaining shoulder.

16. The electrical connector according to claim 14, wherein, The fixed end is positioned closer to the termination end, and the free end is positioned closer to the mating end.

17. The electrical connector according to claim 14, wherein, The base includes a positioning tube that extends at least the length of the corresponding terminal cavity, the body of the terminal has a positioning portion that is received in the positioning tube to axially position the terminal in the terminal cavity, and the locking arm is positioned along the positioning portion and received in the positioning tube.

18. An electrical connector, comprising: A connector housing includes a base and a plurality of terminal cavities extending through the base, the base extending between a front and a rear, the base including a positioning tube extending at least the length of each terminal cavity, and the base including a retaining shoulder in each terminal cavity in front of the positioning tube. as well as A terminal, received in a corresponding terminal cavity, each terminal including a body extending between a mating end at a front portion of the terminal and a terminating end at a rear portion of the terminal, the mating end configured to mate with a mating terminal and the terminating end configured to terminate a cable, the body having a positioning portion received in the positioning tube to coaxially position the terminal in the terminal cavity, each terminal including a locking spear extending from the body, the locking spear including a spear arm extending forward generally in the axial direction of the terminal, the spear arm being positioned along the positioning portion and received in the positioning tube, the locking spear including retaining fingers projecting outward and laterally from the spear arm and extending generally rearward from the spear arm to a retaining edge, the retaining edge engaging a corresponding retaining shoulder to retain the terminal in the corresponding terminal cavity.

19. The electrical connector according to claim 18, wherein, The positioning tube is cylindrical, and the positioning part of the main body is cylindrical.

20. The electrical connector according to claim 18, wherein, The spear arm bends outward against the positioning tube to radially position the terminal within the positioning tube.

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