Electrical connector module, assembly and kit

Abstract

A connector module (100) is disclosed that includes a terminal (110) and a housing subassembly (170). The terminal (110) comprises a contact region (130) configured to reversibly and slidably engage an electrical contact connector, in particular a complementary contact region thereof, along a sliding direction (102). The contact region (130) includes at least one of a rigid first electrical contact surface (131), an elastically movable second electrical contact surface (132), and an elastically movable third surface (133). A kit is disclosed that includes at least one connector module (100) and an end cap attached to a housing subassembly (170).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Electrical connectors are used, for example, to contact circuit boards. Connectors can have one or more contact elements for making one or more electrical connections. Some connectors can be reused, for example, for disconnecting and reconnecting, or can be flexibly used with many other different types of electrical components. BACKGROUND

[0002] It is desirable to allow users to freely make changes to designs in order to manufacture a wider range of components for electrical devices. It is desirable to be able to use the same components, such as connectors and / or connector modules, to manufacture various different types of connectors, such as having a variable number of connections. The connector modules and their components described herein can be used to manufacture various different types of connectors, such as having a variable number of connections. It is desirable to keep manufacturing costs low and / or to simplify the assembly and / or disassembly process. The ability to use the same connector modules to manufacture various connectors can reduce manufacturing costs due to economies of scale. SUMMARY

[0003] A connector module for contacting an electrical contact connector is disclosed, comprising a terminal. The terminal comprises a contact region configured to reversibly and slidingly engage the electrical contact connector, in particular a complementary contact region of the electrical contact connector, along a sliding direction. The contact region comprises at least one or two of a first electric contact surface being rigid, a second electric contact surface being elastically movable, and a third surface being elastically movable. Providing a connector module having at least one contact surface and at least one other surface available for electrical contact can help to create a robust electrical connection. The surfaces can be accessible from a top of the module. The passageway can be unobstructed. This can help to provide redundancy in the electrical connection, thereby helping to provide the ability to manufacture a low resistance and / or robust electrical contact, for example, against vibrations.

[0004] The connector modules and their components can include the following further improvements and / or embodiments, which can be combined individually or multiple times for further embodiments, independently of one another, unless otherwise specified. The invention is defined by the claims.

[0005] A connector module for contacting an electrical contact connector is disclosed, comprising: a terminal. The terminal comprises a contact region configured to reversibly and slidingly engage the electrical contact connector, in particular a complementary contact region of the electrical contact connector, along a sliding direction. The contact region comprises at least one of a first electric contact surface being rigid, a second electric contact surface being elastically movable, and a third surface being elastically movable.

[0006] The second electric contact surface and the third surface can be elastically movable along a contact direction perpendicular to the sliding direction and perpendicular to the lateral direction.

[0007] This can allow for a contact that helps maintain surface-to-surface contact. This can help create a robust electrical connection with low resistance. The terminal can include at least one spring section for providing resiliency to at least one of the second electrical contact surface and the third surface along the contact direction.

[0008] The third surface can extend further out along the contact direction than either of the first electrical contact surface or the second electrical contact surface. This can allow the third surface to protect the other surfaces when the module is slid against another surface, for example during engagement / disengagement of the module with another mating connector. In a relaxed state of the terminal, the third contact surface can extend further out along the contact direction than either of the first electrical contact surface or the second electrical contact surface. In a compressed state of the terminal, the third electrical contact surface can be closer to an imaginary plane that includes the slide direction and the first electrical contact surface than in the relaxed state. This can allow for a contact that helps maintain surface-to-surface contact. The imaginary plane can be perpendicular to the contact direction.

[0009] The contact region can include a ramped surface that slopes upward in the contact direction toward at least one of the second electrical contact surface and the third surface when viewed along the slide direction. This can provide a smooth engagement / disengagement motion. This can reduce wear or damage upon engagement / disengagement.

[0010] The third surface can extend higher in the contact direction than the first contact surface. This can allow the third surface to better protect the other surfaces, for example to act as a sacrificial surface and / or for cleaning a complementary contact, for example a device that mates with the module.

[0011] The second electrical contact surface can be at least one of laterally offset from the third surface in a lateral direction that is perpendicular to the slide direction, or vertically offset below the third surface along the contact direction. This can allow the third surface to protect the second surface while allowing the second surface to act as an electrically conductive contact.

[0012] The module can include a conductor, for example a serpentine conductor and / or a monolithic conductor. At a first end of the conductor, the contact region can be electrically connected to a second end of the conductor by the conductor. The second end can be configured for soldering to a face of a circuit board. The second end of the conductor can extend out of a second opening of the housing subassembly. The conductor can allow the contact region to be used for connecting with another portion of another electrical circuit, such as a circuit of a circuit board.

[0013] The module can include a second terminal including a second contact region for reversibly and slidably engaging with a complementary contact region of a second connector along a sliding direction. The second contact region can include at least one of: a fourth electrically conductive contact surface that is rigid, a fifth electrically conductive contact surface that is elastically movable, or a sixth surface that is elastically movable. The second terminal can provide additional contact capability between components, for example, between a circuit board (such as the same circuit board as previously mentioned) and another connector. The second terminal can include a second end configured for soldering to a face of the circuit board.

[0014] The module can include a housing subassembly including a wall that includes a recessed structure therein that holds the terminal. The recessed structure can allow for easy manufacturing. The recessed structure in the wall can provide a compact design. The housing subassembly can include an opening through which the terminal extends toward the second contact surface and the third surface. The opening can allow for a compact design and / or allow for electrical contact of the second surface with another device.

[0015] The module can have a relaxed state in which: the terminal extends out of the opening, and the second electrically conductive contact surface and the third surface are outside of the opening of the housing subassembly. This can allow for access to the contact surfaces.

[0016] The opening can be at a top surface of the housing subassembly that is perpendicular to the wall. This can allow for access on one side of the module. The housing subassembly can include an electrically insulating material. This can allow for electrical isolation between the module and any other module. The second end of the terminal can extend outwardly from the second opening of the housing subassembly. This can allow for electrical access to the second end. The second end can be configured for soldering to a circuit board.

[0017] The recessed structure can include a partial cavity. This can allow the housing subassembly to house a conductor or other component. At least one spring portion of the terminal can be in the partial cavity. The spring portion can move in the partial cavity. The cavity can allow for spring operation while at least partially protecting the spring from the environment. The partial cavity can be connected to the opening. This can allow a conductor that can include the spring portion to be connected to other surfaces at the accessible contact and / or contact region.

[0018] The wall can be configured to frictionally mate with an opposing structure. This can allow the housing subassembly to be attached to other components, for example, for forming a complete housing and / or contact assembly. An opposing wall of the housing subassembly can include the opposing structure. This can allow multiple modules to be used in cooperation to form more complex devices, for example, multi-terminal contact assemblies.

[0019] Disclosed herein is a connector assembly including a first connector module and a second connector module. The first and second connector modules can reversibly electrically mate at a first contact region of the first connector module and a second contact region of the second connector module. First and second electrical contact surfaces of the first connector module electrically contact fifth and fourth electrical contact surfaces, respectively, of the second connector module. This can allow for complex connector assembly designs.

[0020] Disclosed herein is a connector assembly including at least one connector module, a first end cap attached to a wall of the module(s), and a second end cap attached to an opposite side of the assembly from the wall. The end caps can form an interference fit with the housing subassembly. The first and second end caps can include respective feet for attachment to a circuit board, e.g., by soldering. This can allow for complex connector assembly designs.

[0021] Disclosed herein is a kit for forming an electrical connector assembly for connection to a circuit board, including at least one connector module, and a first end cap configured to attach to a wall of a housing subassembly of the module, and a second end cap configured to attach to an opposite wall of the housing subassembly. This can allow for complex connector assembly designs. The end caps can be configured to form an interference fit with the housing subassembly, such as its walls and opposite walls. This can provide ease of manufacture. The kit facilitates flexibility in downstream design of a device using electrical connections, including connection to a circuit board such as a printed circuit board (PCB). The manufacturer or user of the kit can adjust the configuration according to immediate needs. The modular components and kits including the modular components can allow a user to freely make design changes to manufacture a wider range of electrical devices.

[0022] In this document, “and / or” means at least one of the listed items. For example, “A and / or B” means only A; only B; at least A; at least B; or at least A and B. For example, “X, Y, and / or Z” means only X; only Y; only Z; at least X; at least Y; at least Z; only X and Y; only X and Z; only Y and Z; only X, Y, and Z; at least X and Y; at least X and Z; at least Y and Z; or at least X, Y, and Z. In this document, the word “a” or “an” means one or more; for example, the phrase “a hole” means one or more holes.

[0023] Here, the directions are defined as follows. The X direction is the height, and can be the direction of the electrical contacts between mating connectors. The Y direction is the depth, and can be along the direction of the sliding engagement of the mating connectors; for example, two adjacent surfaces can slide against each other, and provide a reversible sliding (along the Y direction) engagement that includes the electrical contacts between the mating connectors in the X direction. The Z direction is the lateral and / or width direction. Adjacent modules can be mechanically connected along this direction. The Z direction can be perpendicular to the walls of the housing subassembly of the module.

[0024] Herein, extending and / or moving in a particular direction can mean that the direction of the extension and / or movement has a component in the particular direction. For example, moving in the X direction can mean moving with a component in the X direction. The particular direction can have at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% of the component in the particular direction (e.g., the X direction) compared to the other orthogonal directions (e.g., the Y direction and the Z direction). The determination can be made by the dot product of the unit vector of the particular direction and the standard orthogonal unit vector directions.

[0025] Herein, the contact direction and the contacting direction can be used interchangeably. Herein, “module” can be used interchangeably with “connector module” and “contact module”. Herein, “spring section” and “spring portion” can be used interchangeably.

[0026] Herein, the first surface, the second surface, the fourth surface, and the fifth surface can be electrical contact surfaces for forming an electrically conductive connection. The third surface and the sixth surface can be surfaces of electrical conductors, or can be surfaces of a coating or the like, which can be over the conductors (e.g., of the terminals). The coating is not required. The third surface and the sixth surface can protect the second surface and the fifth surface, respectively.

[0027] Herein, the term “complementary contact region” can be used to refer to a contact region of a connector and / or connector module that is configured to mate with another contact region. Depending on the context, a first, second, third, or other recited “contact region” can be a “complementary contact region”. For example, a “first contact region” can be configured to act as a “complementary contact region” to a “second contact region”, and vice versa. A “contact region” of a first connector or connector module can mate with a second connector or module, such that the contact region of the second connector and / or module can be referred to as a “complementary contact region” of the contact region of the first connector or connector module.

[0028] In this context, the second connector can be a second connector module, such as a second connector module. For example, the connector module can be connected to the second connector and / or the same connector module.

[0029] In this context, in case of mentioning indentations, recesses can be used, for example, recesses at the top surface of the housing sub-assembly and / or pockets as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] In the following, the application is described in more detail by means of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, elements corresponding to each other in structure and / or function are provided with the same reference signs.

[0031] The combination of features shown and described in the various embodiments is for illustration purposes only. According to the above explanations, a feature of an embodiment can be omitted if the technical effect of this feature is not important for a particular application. Conversely, according to the above explanations, a further feature can be added to an embodiment if the technical effect of this further feature is advantageous or necessary for a particular application.

[0032] In the following, several examples are described.

[0033] In the drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 A connector module according to an embodiment is shown,

[0035] Figure 2 A connector module according to an embodiment is shown,

[0036] Figure 3 A disengaged connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0037] Figure 4 An engaged connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0038] Figure 5 A connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0039] Figure 6 A connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0040] Figure 7 A connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0041] Figure 8 A connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0042] Figure 9 A connector assembly according to an embodiment is shown,

[0043] Figure 10 An end cap according to an embodiment is shown,

[0044] Figure 11 An end cap according to an embodiment is shown, and

[0045] Figure 12 A kit according to an embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] According to one embodiment, Figure 1 A connector module 100 is shown comprising terminals 110. The terminals 110 have a contact area 130. The contact area 130 can be located at the top of the module 100. The contact area 130 can comprise at least two separate surfaces for surface-to-surface conductive contact with a mating connector, e.g. at the top surface of the module 100.

[0047] Figure 1 Directions x, y, z of the module 100 according to an embodiment are shown. The module 100 can have an X direction 101, e.g. a height direction and / or a direction in which an electrical contact is formed with another connector; and a Y direction 102, e.g. a sliding direction, e.g. when the module 100 is slid into contact with another connector to form an electrical connection. The module 100 can have a Z direction 103, e.g. a lateral direction. Modules can be mechanically connected together along the lateral direction 103, e.g. to form a multi-module connector having parallel terminals. The multi-module connector can provide multiple connections to a circuit board. The modular design can provide flexibility in designing components in variable configurations, which is advantageous.

[0048] The contact area 130 can comprise at least one of: a first electrical contact surface 131, which can be rigid; a second electrical contact surface 132, which can be elastically movable; and a third surface 133, which can be elastically movable, e.g. in the height direction 101. For example, the second electrical contact surface 132 and the third surface 133 are movable in the height direction 101. The contact area 130 can provide multiple surfaces for electrical contact with another connector. Providing multiple surfaces for electrical contact can reduce the chance of breaking an electrical connection and / or increase current carrying capacity.

[0049] The at least two surfaces, e.g. surfaces 131, 132, 133, can be accessible from the top of the module 100. Access from the top can be unobstructed.

[0050] The third surface 133 can act as a protective surface for the first surface 131 and / or the second surface 132, for example by making mechanical contact with other components, thereby in some cases preventing mechanical contact between the first surface 131 and / or the second surface 132 and other components. The third surface 133 can be positioned to slide over another component (e.g., extend further in the height direction 102 than the other surfaces 131, 132) while in contact with the other component when the module 100 is slid into engagement with the other component.

[0051] The terminals 110 can be made of a copper alloy, which can provide good electrical conductivity. The terminals 130 can be formed by stamping and bending a sheet of copper alloy, which can be plated (e.g., electroplated), for example.

[0052] The contact region 130 can engage another connector, for example for making an electrical connection. The contact region 130 can be located at the top of the module 100.

[0053] The connector module can include a housing subassembly 170, which is formed of an insulating material, for example an insulating plate, for example having recessed structures 190 thereon. The housing subassembly 170 can include a wall 180 that includes the recessed structures 190 therein. The recessed structures 190 can hold the terminals 110. The housing subassembly 170 can include an opening 175 through which the terminals 110 extend toward the second contact surface 132 and the third surface 133. When the module 100 is in the relaxed state 150, such as Figure 1 As shown, the terminals 110 can extend out of the opening 175, and / or the second electrical contact surface 132 and the third surface 133 are outside of the opening 175 of the housing subassembly 170. The opening 175 can be located at a top surface 177 of the housing subassembly 170, for example, the top surface 177 is perpendicular to the wall 180 of the housing subassembly 170.

[0054] The surfaces 131, 132, 133 can be exposed at a top surface of the module 100.

[0055] The second electrical contact surface 132 and / or the third surface 133 can be elastically movable along a contact direction 101 that is perpendicular to the sliding direction 102 and perpendicular to the lateral direction 103.

[0056] The terminal can include at least one spring section 160 for providing elasticity. The spring section 160 can be connected to the second and / or third surfaces 132, 133. The height direction 101 along at least one of the second electrical contact surface 132 and the third surface 133 can have elasticity. The elasticity can be provided by the spring section(s) 160. The second electrical contact surface 132 and the third surface 133 can elastically deform, e.g. reversibly compress, when the contact region 130 is in contact, e.g. sliding contact, with another connector. The spring operation of the electrical contact can provide a robust electrical connection with other devices. The second and third surfaces 132, 133 can be connected to the same spring, which can simplify the design. A rigid connection between the second surface 132 and the third surface 133, e.g. both movable as one unit, can ensure that the third surface 133 can protect the second surface 132 under varying displacements.

[0057] The terminal 110 can include a second end 135, e.g. a conductor 134, which can be connected to a circuit board (not shown in the middle). The second end 135 can be electrically conductively coupled to the contact region 130 of the terminal 110. For example, the conductor 134 can electrically conductively connect the contact region 130 to the second end 135. Figure 1

[0058] The conductor 134 can be a serpentine conductor and / or a monolithic conductor. Alternatively / additionally, the conductor 134 can include an S-shape between the spring section 160 and the first surface 131. The S-shape can help to provide an adjacent spring and rigid surface while occupying a minimum space. Small and / or compact modules can be desired.

[0059] The contact region 130 can be located at a first end of the conductor 134. The conductor 134 can connect the contact region 130 to the second end 135 of the terminal 110. The second end of the terminal can be used for soldering to a face of a circuit board, e.g. the second end 135 is in a position allowing contact with a surface of a circuit board. The serpentine and / or monolithic conductor can simplify manufacturing. For example, the conductor 134 can be prepared from a punched and bent sheet, e.g. a copper alloy sheet which can be plated. The serpentine and / or monolithic conductor can be easily manufactured. The serpentine and / or monolithic conductor can be easily placed into the recessed structure 190 of the wall 180 of the housing subassembly 170.

[0060] Figure 1 ​A housing subassembly 170 is shown, which can support the terminal 110, for example at a wall 180 of the housing subassembly 170. The wall 180 can comprise a recessed structure 190. The recessed structure 190 can support the terminal 110. The recessed structure 190 can comprise a local cavity 185, in which the spring section 160 of the terminal 110 can be located. The local cavity 185 can provide space for some movement of the terminal 110, such as at its spring section 160. The spring section 160 can move in the local cavity 185. The local cavity 185 can be connected to an opening 175, through which the terminal 110 extends towards the second contact surface 132 and the third surface 133.

[0061] The rigidity of the first surface 131 can be provided by material properties of the conductor 134, such as thickness, modulus of elasticity and / or hardness. Alternatively / additionally, the rigidity of the first surface 131 can be at least partially provided by the housing subassembly 170, for example material properties of the housing subassembly and proximity and / or connection of the housing subassembly to the second surface.

[0062] The first surface 131 can be opposite to a top side of the housing subassembly 170, for example the side of the housing subassembly 170 that is farthest along the x-direction 101, for example the housing subassembly 170, for example its top 177, can abut the terminal 110 on the opposite position of the first surface 131, for example to provide a firm support, so that the first surface 131 is rigid. The first surface 131 with a rigid surface can be used to provide a rigid electrical connection surface to a complementarily elastically movable surface, for example in order to form a robust reversible electrical connection.

[0063] Figure 2 A connector module 200 according to an embodiment is shown. The connector module 100, 200, for example the connector module 200 shown in Figure 2 , can be formed as a variant of the embodiments described with respect to Figure 1 . The connector module 100, 200 can comprise a second terminal 220, such as the second terminal shown in Figure 2 . The second terminal 220 can comprise a second contact region 230 comprising at least one of a fourth electric contact surface 234 that is rigid, a fifth electric contact surface 235 that is elastically movable, and a sixth surface 236 that is elastically movable. The fourth surface 234, the fifth surface 235 and the sixth surface 236 of the second terminal 220 can have properties as the first surface 131, the second surface 132 and the third surface 133 of the contact region 130 of the terminal 110, respectively.

[0064] The terminal 110 and the second terminal 220 can be held by the housing subassembly 170, for example by the recessed structure 190 of the wall 180. Alternatively / additionally, the recessed structure(s) 190 of the wall 180 can be used to hold the terminal(s) 110, 220 and / or to provide at least a partial cavity 185, 285 for the spring section(s) 160, 260 of the terminal 110, 220, respectively.

[0065] The contact region 130, 230 of the terminal 110, 220 can be symmetrical counterparts, for example having features corresponding and / or similar to each other. The second contact region 230 can have features of the contact region 130 rotated around the z-axis 130, for example by 180°. The contact region 130 can comprise an opening 175. The second contact region 230 can similarly comprise a second opening 275.

[0066] The second terminal 220 can comprise a second conductor 237, for example connecting the second contact region 230 to a second end 238 of the second terminal 220. The second end 238 can be connectable to a circuit board, for example the same circuit board to which the second end 135 of the terminal 110 can be connectable, such as the same face thereof. The rigid fourth electrical contact surface 234 can be supported by the housing subassembly 170 as the first electrical contact 231, which can be adjacent and / or abutting to the side of the second terminal 220 opposite to the fourth contact surface 234 (as in the case of the first contact 131, the housing subassembly 170 and the terminal 110).

[0067] Figure 3 A disengaged connector assembly 299 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 4 An engaged connector assembly 301 according to an embodiment is shown. The connector module 100, 300 (such as the connector module 200 shown in Figure 3 The connector module 200 shown in the middle can be connected to a circuit board 310. The second end 135 of the conductor 134 can be solderable to the circuit board 310, for example a face 320 of the circuit board 310. For example Figure 2 The terminal 110 and the second terminal 220 of the contact module 200 shown can be connected to the same face 320 of the circuit board 310, for example by the second end 135 of the terminal 110 and the second end 238 of the second terminal 220. The contact region 130 and the second contact region 230 can each be conductively coupled to the circuit board 310. It can be advantageous to enable the contact module 200 to provide the contact regions 130, 230 on opposite sides of the same circuit board 310. The contact module 200 can provide for attachment of the circuit board 310 such that the contact regions 130, 230 are on opposite sides of the circuit board 310.

[0068] The connector module 100, e.g. its contact region 130, can be slidably engaged with another connector and / or connector module 300, e.g. its complementary contact region 330. The engagement can be reversible. The modules 100, 200 described herein, in particular their respective contact regions 130, 230, can reversibly and slidably engage a complementary contact region 330, such as the contact regions 230, 130, respectively, of another connector 100, 200, by sliding along the sliding direction 102.

[0069] For example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is shown that the contact region 130, 230 of the module 100 is slid into engagement with the complementary contact region 230, 130, respectively, of two other connector modules 100. The complementary connector and / or module 300 can be identical to the connector module 100. In Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the example of Figs. 1 1 and 12, the second contact region 230 of the second terminal 220 serves as the complementary contact region 230 of the contact region 130 of the terminal 1 10.

[0070] The connector assembly 301 can be formed using identical connector modules 100, 200 or a set comprising different types of connector modules 100, 200. Alternatively / additionally, the connector assembly 301 can be formed using modules 100, 200 and a connector 300 comprising a complementary contact region 330 complementary to any of the contact regions 130, 230 of the modules 100, 200.

[0071] The second electrical contact surface 132 and the third surface 133 can be elastically movable along a contact direction 101 perpendicular to the sliding direction 102 and perpendicular to the lateral direction 103. For example, in Figure 4 In the example of Figs. 1 1 and 12, the second contact region 230 of the second terminal 220 serves as the complementary contact region 230 of the contact region 130 of the terminal 1 10. Figure 4 In the example of Figs. 1 1 and 12, the second contact region 230 of the second terminal 220 serves as the complementary contact region 230 of the contact region 130 of the terminal 1 10.

[0072] The third surface 133 may extend outward along the contact direction 101 further than the first electrical contact surface 131 and / or the second electrical contact surface 132. The third surface 133 may protect the first electrical contact surface 131 and / or the second electrical contact surface 132 from mechanical wear during sliding engagement. In situations such as... Figure 4 In the shown joint configuration, the third surface 133 can rest in the recess 179 of the top surface 177 of the housing subassembly 170.

[0073] In the relaxed state 150 of terminal 130 (for example, see...) Figure 1 (For illustration purposes) The third contact surface 133 extends outward along the contact direction 101 further than either the first electrical contact surface 131 or the second electrical contact surface 132. In the relaxed state 150, the second electrical contact surface 132 may extend outward along the contact direction 101 further than the first electrical contact surface 131. The outward extension of the second surface 132 ensures that the second contact surface 132 is compressed during engagement and can help ensure robust electrical contact with the complementary contact surface.

[0074] The outward extension of the third surface 133 helps protect the first contact surface and / or the second contact surfaces 131, 132 during sliding engagement / disengagement. The third surface 133 can be used such that it does not engage with the complementary conductive counterpart of another connector. The third surface 133 can be used with, for example, a complementary connector (e.g., Figure 3 The housing or housing subassembly 170 of the connector 300 shown slides into contact, such as during sliding engagement or forming (connecting) of the connector assembly 301. A third surface 133, for example by extending further outward than the second surface 132, can protect the second surface 132 from wear or dust accumulation during sliding engagement. A more robust electrical connection can be created between the second contact surface 132 and another mating surface of the connector and / or connector module 300.

[0075] In the compressed state 155 of terminal 110, such as in the engaged connector assembly 301, as Figure 4 As shown, the third electrical contact surface 133 can be closer to the imaginary plane 105, which includes the sliding direction 102 and the first electrical contact surface 131, than in the relaxed state 150 (see [reference]). Figure 1 ). refer to Figure 1 For clarity, the imaginary plane 105 may be perpendicular to the contact direction 101. The top surface 177 of the housing subassembly 170 may include a notch 179 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1The recess 179 is for receiving the sixth surface 236 and / or a complementary surface that extends further outward than the complementary conductive surfaces (e.g. fourth surface 235 and fifth surface 234) that are in electrical contact with the second surface and first surface 132, 131 respectively, as shown in Figure 4

[0076] As can be seen in the embodiments of Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the third surface 133 can extend higher in the contact direction 101 than the first contact surface 131. Such a surface can ensure that the second surface 132 is protected during the sliding engagement.

[0077] The contact region 130 can comprise a ramped surface 140 that is ramped upwards in the contact direction 101 towards at least one of the second electrical contact surface 132 and the third surface 133 when viewed along the sliding direction 102. The ramped surface 140 can allow the sliding engagement to operate smoothly. The ramped surface 140 can be ramped towards the second surface 132 and / or the third surface 133 when viewed from either direction along the axis of the sliding direction 102. The ramped surface 140 can provide a smooth action when the connector module 100 is engaged and / or disengaged with a complementary connector and / or connector module 300. The ramped surface 140 can comprise a portion of the conductor 134 in the contact region 130 between the end 139 of the conductor 134 in the contact region 130 and the third surface 133. The end 139 of the conductor 134 in the contact region 130 can be lower than the third surface 133. The ramped surface 140 can be ramped upwards from the end 139 to the third surface 133, e.g. as viewed along the sliding direction 102.

[0078] The ramped surface 140 can comprise a U-shaped bend with the apex of the U on the side of the second surface and / or third surface 133, 134 opposite the end 139 of the conductor 134.

[0079] The second electrical contact surface 132 can be laterally offset from the third surface 133 in a lateral direction 103 perpendicular to the sliding direction 102. Alternatively / additionally, the second electrical contact surface 132 can be vertically offset below the third surface 133 along the contact direction 101. Such a geometry can ensure that the third surface 133 can be used to protect the second surface 132 during the sliding engagement / disengagement (see Figure 3 and Figure 4 ).

[0080] Figure 5 ​A connector assembly 500 according to an embodiment is shown. The connector assembly 500 can be joined with a circuit board 310, for example, at an edge or notch of the circuit board 310. The connector assembly 500 includes one or more connector modules 100 and end caps 510, 520. The modules 100 can be assembled together with the walls 180 of each housing subassembly 170 of each module 100 abutting an adjacent housing subassembly 170 of an adjacent module 100 or an end cap 510, 520. The end caps 510, 520 can include a foot 530 that can be attached to the circuit board 310, for example, by soldering.

[0081] Figure 6 A connector assembly 500 according to an embodiment is shown from a different perspective. Figure 5

[0082] Figure 7 Connector assemblies 600, 700 according to an embodiment are shown. The connector assemblies 600, 700 can be attached to one side or face 320 of a circuit board 310. A first connector assembly 600 can be attached to a face 320 of a circuit board 310. A second connector assembly 700 can be attached to an opposite face 710 of the circuit board 310. Each connector assembly 600, 700 can include one or more connector modules 100 and end caps 510, 520; such as those described herein. The modules 100 can be assembled together with the walls 180 of each housing subassembly 170 of each module 100 abutting an adjacent housing subassembly 170 of an adjacent module 100 or an end cap 510, 520. The end caps 510, 520 can include a foot 530 that can be attached to the circuit board 310, for example, by soldering.

[0083] One end cap 520 can be configured to attach to a wall 180 having a recessed structure 190. Another end cap 510 can be configured to attach to a housing subassembly 170 on the other side, for example, without a recessed structure 190 for holding terminal(s) 110, 220.

[0084] The connector assembly terminal(s) and / or end cap(s) can be soldered to the respective face of the circuit board 310. The contact regions 130, 230 can be on a side of the module(s) 100 opposite the circuit board 310.

[0085] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A connector assembly 800 according to an embodiment is shown. The connector assembly can include a plurality of modules 100, 850. Figure 8 and Figure 9 ​Two types of connector modules 100, 850 are shown as part of assemblies 800. Modules 100, 850 can be structurally similar, but have differently sized terminals 110. For example, when greater current carrying capacity is desired, module 850 can use thicker terminals, for example, as compared to module 100. Accordingly, the housing subassembly 170 and / or the recessed structure 190 of module 850 can be adapted for higher current. For example, the housing subassembly 170 of module 850 can be thicker than the housing subassembly 170 of module 100; and the recess can be deeper; for example, to accommodate thicker terminal(s) 110, 220. The end caps 510, 520 can be adjusted.

[0086] Figure 10 An end cap 520 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 11 Another end cap 510 according to an embodiment is shown. End caps 510, 520 can each include a foot 530 for connection to a circuit board 310, for example, by soldering, particularly to the face 320 of board 310. The end caps can include an electrically insulating material for cooperating with the housing subassembly 170 to form a housing, for example, for accommodating and / or retaining terminal(s) 110, 220.

[0087] End caps 510, 520 can be configured to mechanically mate with modules 100, 200, and vice versa. The structure 1050 of the housing subassembly 170 of module 100, 200 (see Figure 2 ) and the complementary structure 1055 of end cap 520 can mate together, for example, for forming an interference fit (and / or a friction fit). The structure 1050 of the housing subassembly 170 can be, for example, a post 1060. The structure 1055 of the end cap 520 can be a hole 1065. These structures can be reversed, with a hole in the housing subassembly 170 and a post in the end cap 520. These structures can guide the module 100, 200 and the end cap 520 for improved alignment. Alternatively / additionally, the structures can provide an interference fit. Alternatively / additionally, an adhesive can be used to attach the end cap 510, 520 to the module 100, 200 and / or to attach adjacent modules to each other.

[0088] Walls 180 such as Figure 2 shown can be configured for mechanical connection and / or friction fit, for example, with an opposing structure 1080. For example, the opposing wall 1090 (see Figure 2 ) of the housing subassembly 170 can include the opposing structure 1080 (see Figure 10 ). For example, the opposing structure 1080 includes a hole 1065 (see Figure 10 ) complementary to the post 1060 of the wall 180. The hole 1065 of the opposing structure 1080 of the housing subassembly 170 is in Figure 2The middle is not visible as it is on the opposite wall 1090 of the housing subassembly 170.

[0089] An opposite structure 1080, which can be a structure complementary to the structure of the wall 180, can be present on the opposite wall 1090 of the module 100, 200 and the end cap 520. For example, the post 1060 can be inserted into the hole 1065.

[0090] Figure 11 The end cap 510 shown has a post 1060. The post 1060 can be inserted into a hole 1065 of the opposite wall 1090 of the module 100, 200.

[0091] A connector module 100, 200 that cooperates with a second connector module 100, 200 or end cap 520 can form a housing structure for the terminal(s) 110, 220. The wall 180 of the housing subassembly 170 can form the housing structure when connected to a complementary structure. The middle portion of the conductor(s) 134, 237 can be insulated by the housing structure. For example, a partial cavity 185 can be accommodated, leaving the opening(s) 175, 275 through which the terminal(s) 110, 220 can extend.

[0092] Figure 12 A kit 1200 according to an embodiment is shown. The kit 1200 can be used to form an electrical connector assembly 301, 500, 600, 700, 800, for example an assembly connected to at least one circuit board 310. The kit 1200 can include at least one connector module 100, 200, a first end cap 520 configured to attach to the wall 180 of the housing subassembly 170 of the module 100, 200. The kit can include a second end cap 510 configured to attach to the opposite wall 1090 of the housing subassembly 170. The end caps 510, 520 can be configured to form an interference fit with the housing subassembly 170. The kit can provide flexibility in designing a connector assembly 301, 500, 600, 700, 800. The kit 1200 can include more than one type of connector module 100, 200, for example a connector module 850 rated to pass more current than another module 100, 200 of the kit 1200. This can increase the flexibility of the design of the connector assembly. Each connector module 100, 850 can have a similar arrangement of structures of the wall 180 and the opposite wall 1090.

[0093] The examples described herein are for illustrative purposes.

[0094] Reference numerals

[0095] Connector module 100

[0096] Axis; height direction (X), electrical contact direction 101

[0097] Slide direction (Y), depth direction 102

[0098] Width direction (Z), lateral direction 103

[0099] Imaginary plane 105

[0100] Terminal 110

[0101] Contact region 130

[0102] First electrical contact surface (rigid) 131

[0103] Second electrical contact surface (spring) 132

[0104] Third surface (spring) 133

[0105] Conductor 134

[0106] Second end of conductor 135

[0107] End of conductor in contact region 139

[0108] Tilted surface 140

[0109] Relaxed state 150

[0110] Compressed state 155

[0111] At least one spring section 160

[0112] Housing subassembly 170

[0113] Opening 175

[0114] Top surface of housing subassembly 177

[0115] Notch in top surface of housing subassembly 179

[0116] Wall 180

[0117] Partial cavity of housing assembly 185

[0118] Recessed structure of wall 190

[0119] Second connector 200

[0120] Second terminal 220

[0121] Second contact region of second terminal 230

[0122] First electrical contact 231

[0123] Fourth electrical contact surface (rigid) 234

[0124] Fifth electrical contact surface (spring) 235

[0125] Fourth contact surface (spring) 236

[0126] Second conductor 237

[0127] Second end of second terminal 238

[0128] Second inclined surface 240

[0129] Second opening 275

[0130] Second (partial) cavity 285

[0131] Disengaged connector assembly 299

[0132] Contact connector (electric) (other connector), complementary connector 300

[0133] Engaged connector assembly 301

[0134] Circuit board 310

[0135] Face of circuit board 320

[0136] Complementary contact zone 330

[0137] Connector assembly 500

[0138] Other end cap 510

[0139] End cap 520

[0140] Foot of end cap 530

[0141] Connector assembly 600

[0142] Connector assembly 700

[0143] Opposite face of circuit board 710

[0144] Connector assembly 800

[0145] Connector module 850

[0146] Structure of housing subassembly 1050

[0147] Post 1060

[0148] Complementary structure 1055

[0149] Aperture 1065

[0150] Opposite structure 1080

[0151] Opposite wall of housing subassembly 1090

[0152] Kit 1200

Claims

1. Connector module (100) for contacting an electrical contact connector (300), comprising: a terminal (110), comprising: a contact region (130) configured to reversibly and slidingly engage the electrical contact connector (300), in particular a complementary contact region (330) of the electrical contact connector (300), along a sliding direction (102); wherein the contact region (130) comprises at least two of: a first, rigid electrical contact surface (131), a second, elastically movable electrical contact surface (132), and a third, elastically movable surface (133).

2. Connector module (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second electrical contact surface (132) and the third surface (133) are elastically movable along a contact direction (101) perpendicular to the sliding direction (102) and perpendicular to a lateral direction (103); wherein optionally the terminal (130) comprises: at least one spring section (160) for providing elasticity to at least one of the second electrical contact surface (132) and the third surface (133) along the contact direction (101).

3. Connector module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the third surface (133) extends further outwards along the contact direction (101) than any of: the first electrical contact surface (131) or the second electrical contact surface (132); wherein optionally in a relaxed state (150) of the terminal (110), the third contact surface (133) extends further outwards along the contact direction (101) than any of the first electrical contact surface (131) or the second electrical contact surface (132); and in a compressed state of the terminal (110), the third electrical contact surface (133) is closer to an imaginary plane (105) comprising the sliding direction (102) and the first electrical contact surface (131) than in the relaxed state (150); wherein the imaginary plane is perpendicular to the contact direction (101).

4. Connector module (100) according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the contact region (130) comprises an inclined surface (140) inclined upwards in the contact direction (101) towards at least one of the second electrical contact surface (132) and the third surface (133) when viewed along the sliding direction (102).

5. Connector module (100) according to any of claims 1-4, wherein the third surface (133) extends higher in the contact direction (101) than the first contact surface (131).

6. Connector module (100) according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the second electrical contact surface (132) is laterally offset from the third surface (133) in a lateral direction (103) perpendicular to the sliding direction (102); or the third surface (133) is laterally offset from the second electrical contact surface (132) in the lateral direction (103) perpendicular to the sliding direction (102). is rigidly connected to the third surface (133), e.g. by a conductor (134).

7. The connector module (100) according to any of claims 1-6, further comprising: a conductor (134), e.g. a serpentine conductor and / or a monolithic conductor; wherein the contact area (130) at a first end of the conductor (134) is electrically connected to a second end (135) of the conductor (134) by the conductor (134); wherein optionally the second end (135) is configured for soldering to a face (320) of a circuit board (310); wherein optionally the second end (135) of the conductor extends out of a second opening (275) of the housing sub-assembly (170).

8. The connector module (100) according to any of claims 1-7, further comprising: a second terminal (220) comprising: a second contact area (230) for reversibly and slidably engaging with a complementary contact area (330) of a second connector (200) along the sliding direction (102); wherein the second contact area (230) comprises at least two of: a fourth, rigid, electrical contact surface (234), a fifth, elastically movable electrical contact surface (235), and a sixth, elastically movable surface (236).

9. The connector module (100) according to claim 8, wherein the second terminal (220) comprises a second end (238) configured for soldering to a face (320) of a circuit board (310).

10. The connector module (100) according to any of claims 1-9, a housing sub-assembly (170) comprising: a wall (180) comprising a recessed structure (190) therein, the recessed structure (190) holding the terminal (110), and optionally an opening (175) through which the terminal (110) extends towards the second contact surface (132) and the third surface (133); wherein optionally in a relaxed state (150), the terminal (110) extends out of the opening (175), the second electrical contact surface (132) and the third surface (133) are outside of the opening (175) of the housing sub-assembly (170); wherein optionally the opening (175) is at a top surface (177) of the housing sub-assembly (170) perpendicular to the wall (180); wherein optionally the housing sub-assembly (170) comprises an electrically insulating material; wherein optionally a second end (135) of the terminal (110) extends outwardly from a second opening (275) of the housing sub-assembly (170), wherein optionally, the second end (135) is configured for soldering to a circuit board.

11. The connector module (100) according to claim 10, wherein the recessed structure (190) comprises: a local cavity (185); wherein the at least one spring section (160) of the terminal (110) is located in the local cavity (185); wherein optionally the second end (135) of the terminal (110) extends out of a second opening (275) of the housing sub-assembly (170). The spring section (160) is movable in the local cavity (185); wherein optionally The local cavity (185) is connected to the opening (175).

12. The connector module (100) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein The wall (180) is a structured wall for frictional mating with an opposing structure (1080); wherein an opposing wall (1090) of the housing sub-assembly (170) comprises the opposing structure (1080).

13. A connector assembly (301) comprising: a first connector module (100, 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and a second connector module (200) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein The first connector module (100) and the second connector module (200) are reversibly electrically mated at a contact region (130) of the first connector module (100) and a second contact region (230) of the second connector module (200); wherein The first and second electrical contact surfaces (131, 132) of the first connector module (100, 200) electrically contact the fifth and fourth electrical contact surfaces (235, 234) of the second connector module (200), respectively.

14. A connector assembly (500, 600) comprising: at least one connector module (100, 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; a first end cap (520) attached to the wall (180); and a second end cap (510) attached to a side of the assembly (500, 600) opposite the wall (180); wherein optionally The end caps (510, 520) are configured to form an interference fit with the housing sub-assembly (170); wherein optionally The first and second end caps (520, 510) comprise respective feet (530) for attachment to a circuit board (310), e.g. by soldering.

15. A kit (1200) for forming an electrical connector assembly (301, 500, 600, 700, 800) for connection to a circuit board (310), comprising: at least one connector module (100, 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; and a first end cap (520) configured to be attached to a wall (180) of a housing sub-assembly (170) of the module (100, 200); and a second end cap (510) configured to be attached to an opposing wall (1090) of the housing sub-assembly (170); wherein optionally The end caps (510, 520) are configured to form an interference fit with the housing sub-assembly (170), such as with its wall (180) and opposing wall (1090).

Images