Reliable adaptive electrical connector with high current capacity

Abstract

An electrical connector with high current capacity is disclosed. The connector has a sleeve and a terminal disposed in the sleeve. The terminal includes one or more conductive elements, each conductive element including a first portion having an inflection point abutting the sleeve, and a second portion connecting the adjacent first portion. The second portion is radially expanded by the pin when the pin is inserted into the terminal. Expansion of the second portion increases a contact area and a contact force between the first portion and the sleeve to reliably connect the pin to the sleeve through the second portion to the first portion. The number of first portions of each conductive element can be configured to achieve a desired contact area and contact force. The terminals may include a plurality of conductive elements, and the number can be selected according to the length of the pins. The techniques described herein enable reliable, adaptable connectors with high current capacity.

Description

Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Chinese Patent Application No. 202310517646.6, filed May 9, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by this reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application generally relates to interconnect systems for interconnecting electronic components, such as those that include electrical connectors. BACKGROUND

[0003] Electrical connectors enable electrical connections and signal transmission between devices, between components, and between systems, and are essential elements for forming a complete system.

[0004] Existing electrical connectors can have a side surface configured to receive a pin. When the pin is inserted into the socket, the pin can contact the inside of the socket such that the pin is electrically connected to the socket by a spring. An example of a connector that receives a pin is shown in U.S. Patent No. 11,929,571, the assignee of which sells connectors known as “RADSOK connectors.” SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to reliable, adaptable electrical connectors with high current capacity.

[0006] Some embodiments relate to a terminal. The terminal can include one or more electrically conductive elements at least partially encircling an area having a center, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements including at least two first portions each offset from the center by more than a first radius, and a plurality of second portions connecting adjacent ones of the at least two first portions and offset from the center by less than the first radius.

[0007] Optionally, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements is configured to expand and contract in a radial direction relative to the center of the area.

[0008] Optionally, the one or more electrically conductive elements include two electrically conductive elements stacked in an axial direction extending perpendicular to a radial direction relative to the center of the area.

[0009] Optionally, the terminal includes a member connecting the two electrically conductive elements.

[0010] Optionally, the member is disposed between and joining first portions of the two conductive elements.

[0011] Optionally, each of the one or more conductive elements includes first and second ends that are separate from one another.

[0012] Optionally, for each of the one or more conductive elements: the first and second ends are disposed in one of the at least two first portions.

[0013] Optionally, at least one of the one or more conductive elements includes one or more protrusions extending from an edge of the at least one conductive element and disposed between respective adjacent first portions of the at least one conductive element; and the one or more protrusions are angled away from the center.

[0014] Optionally, each of the one or more conductive elements includes three to six first portions.

[0015] Optionally, the one or more conductive elements are stamped from a sheet of metal.

[0016] Optionally, a thickness of the sheet defines a radial extent of each of the one or more conductive elements.

[0017] Optionally, a surface of the sheet defines a surface of the one or more conductive elements facing the area.

[0018] Optionally, each of the plurality of second portions includes an elongate band.

[0019] Optionally, the elongate bands of the one or more conductive elements are disposed in parallel.

[0020] Optionally, each of the at least two first portions includes a bend.

[0021] Some embodiments relate to an electrical connector. The electrical connector can include a sleeve including an inner wall bounding a cavity; and a terminal disposed in the cavity and including a conductive element including: first portions abutting the inner wall of the sleeve; and second portions disposed within the cavity and connecting adjacent first portions.

[0022] Optionally, each of the first portions includes a point of inflection abutting the inner wall of the sleeve.

[0023] Optionally, the electrical connector includes a plurality of gaps between the portions of the terminals and the inner wall of the sleeve and separated from each other by the inflection points of the respective first portions of the terminals that abut the inner wall of the sleeve.

[0024] Optionally, each of the plurality of gaps decreases towards a point of the respective first portion.

[0025] Optionally, each of the plurality of gaps is symmetrical.

[0026] Optionally, the plurality of gaps conforms to a wave shape.

[0027] Optionally, the electrically conductive element includes a first end and a second end separate from the first end; and the first end and the second end are disposed in the first portion.

[0028] Optionally, the terminal includes a plurality of electrically conductive elements including the electrically conductive element; and the plurality of electrically conductive elements are stacked in an axial direction extending through the cavity of the sleeve.

[0029] Optionally, the electrical connector includes a plurality of members joining the first portions of adjacent electrically conductive elements of the plurality of electrically conductive elements.

[0030] Optionally, the electrical connector includes a plurality of protrusions extending from edges of the second portions of the plurality of electrically conductive elements and inclined away from a center of the cavity.

[0031] Some embodiments relate to a terminal that mates with a pin. The terminal can include one or more electrically conductive elements that at least partially surround the pin, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements including: at least two first portions and a plurality of second portions, wherein: the plurality of second portions each contact a surface of the pin at a first radius from a center of the pin; and the at least two first portions connect adjacent second portions of the plurality of second portions and are offset from the center of the pin by more than the first radius.

[0032] Optionally, the one or more electrically conductive elements are stamped from a sheet of metal.

[0033] Optionally, a thickness of the sheet defines a radial extent of each of the one or more electrically conductive elements.

[0034] Optionally, a surface of the sheet defines a surface of the one or more electrically conductive elements facing the center.

[0035] Optionally, each of the plurality of second portions includes an elongate band.

[0036] Optionally, the elongated strips of the one or more electrically conductive elements are arranged in parallel.

[0037] Optionally, each of the at least two first portions comprises a bend.

[0038] Optionally, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises one or more protrusions extending from an edge of the second portion of the electrically conductive element.

[0039] Some embodiments relate to a method of operating an electrical connector, the electrical connector comprising a sleeve having a cavity and a terminal disposed in the cavity, and the method comprising: inserting a pin into the terminal; expanding the terminal; and generating pressure against a circumferential surface of the pin.

[0040] Optionally, the method comprises generating pressure against an inner wall of the sleeve.

[0041] Optionally, the terminal comprises one or more electrically conductive elements at least partially encircling a region having a center; and each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises at least two first portions each offset from the center by more than a first radius and a plurality of second portions connecting adjacent ones of the at least two first portions and offset from the center by less than the first radius.

[0042] Optionally, expanding the terminal comprises: expanding the at least two first portions such that an area of contact between the at least two first portions and an inner wall of the sleeve increases; and expanding the plurality of second portions such that the plurality of second portions conform to the circumferential surface of the pin.

[0043] Optionally, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises a first end disposed in a first portion of the at least two first portions and a second end disposed in the first portion of the at least two first portions and separate from the first end; and expanding the terminal comprises further increasing a distance between the first end and the second end.

[0044] Optionally, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises a plurality of protrusions extending from an edge of the plurality of second portions of the electrically conductive element and tilted away from the center; and expanding the terminal comprises, for each of the one or more electrically conductive elements, bringing the plurality of protrusions into contact with the pin so as to direct the pin into contact with the plurality of second portions of the electrically conductive element.

[0045] Some embodiments relate to a wave spring. The wave spring can include a plurality of spring pieces, wherein the spring pieces are arranged annularly, the spring pieces are connected and stacked sequentially in an axial direction, each of the spring pieces is provided with at least three abutment portions, the abutment portions are distributed around an outer side of the corresponding spring piece, and the abutment portions are configured to expand and contract in a radial direction of the corresponding spring piece.

[0046] Optionally, each of the spring pieces is provided with a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end are configured to abut against each other and cooperatively define an opening.

[0047] Optionally, the opening is provided in one of the at least three abutment portions.

[0048] Optionally, adjacent spring pieces of the plurality of spring pieces are connected by a connecting sheet.

[0049] Optionally, each of the plurality of spring pieces further includes a plurality of connecting portions, two ends of each of the connecting portions are connected with adjacent abutment portions of the at least three abutment portions respectively, the connecting sheet is located on one side of the corresponding abutment portion or one side of the corresponding connecting portion, and the connecting sheet is configured to connect the abutment portions of the adjacent two spring pieces.

[0050] Optionally, one side of each of the plurality of spring pieces is further provided with a guide portion, and the guide portion is located between adjacent abutment portions of the at least three abutment portions.

[0051] Optionally, the at least three abutment portions include three to six abutment portions.

[0052] Some embodiments relate to a plug terminal connector. The plug terminal connector can include the wave spring described herein. The plug terminal connector can further include a sleeve, wherein an annular accommodating chamber is arranged in the sleeve, the wave spring is arranged in the accommodating chamber, and the abutment portions abut against a chamber wall of the accommodating chamber; and a contact pin, wherein the contact pin is insertable into the wave spring.

[0053] Optionally, a plug end of the contact pin is provided with an arc-shaped surface, and the arc-shaped surface is attachable to a guide portion of the wave spring.

[0054] Optionally, two ends of the wave spring in the axial direction abut against two ends of the accommodating chamber respectively.

[0055] Some embodiments relate to a terminal comprising: one or more electrically conductive elements, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprising: a plurality of first portions each having an outermost point disposed on a first annular shape; and a plurality of second portions disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of first portions and having end points joining respective first portions, end portions of the plurality of second portions being disposed on a second annular shape.

[0056] Optionally, the first annular shape and the second annular shape are concentric.

[0057] Optionally, portions of each of the one or more electrically conductive elements between adjacent outermost points of the plurality of first portions each separate the first annular shape by a gap; and the gap decreases toward the respective outermost point.

[0058] Optionally, the gap is symmetrical.

[0059] Optionally, each of the plurality of first portions separates the second annular shape by a first gap; and each of the plurality of second portions separates the second annular shape by a second gap different from the first gap.

[0060] Optionally, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises: a first end disposed in a first portion; and a second end disposed in the first portion and separated from the first end.

[0061] Some embodiments relate to a terminal. The terminal can comprise a plurality of electrically conductive elements. The electrically conductive elements can be annular in shape. The electrically conductive elements can be sequentially connected and stacked in an axial direction. Each electrically conductive element can be provided with at least three first portions. The first portions are distributed around an outer side of the respective electrically conductive element. The first portions can be expandable and contractible in a radial direction of the respective electrically conductive element.

[0062] Optionally, each electrically conductive element is provided with a first end and a second end configured to abut each other and cooperatively define an opening.

[0063] Optionally, the opening is disposed in one of the first portions.

[0064] Optionally, adjacent ones of the plurality of electrically conductive elements are connected by a member.

[0065] Optionally, each electrically conductive element further comprises a plurality of second portions, each second portion having two ends connected to adjacent first portions respectively, the member is located at one side of the respective first portion or one side of the respective second portion, and the member is used to connect the first portions of two adjacent electrically conductive elements.

[0066] Optionally, the electrically conductive element is further provided with a protrusion on one side thereof, and the protrusion is located between two adjacent first portions.

[0067] Optionally, the first portions include three to six first portions.

[0068] Some embodiments relate to an electrical connector. The electrical connector can include a terminal as described herein and a sleeve including an annular cavity. The terminal can be arranged in the cavity of the sleeve with the first portions abutting the walls of the cavity.

[0069] Optionally, the terminal can be configured to receive a pin.

[0070] Optionally, the insertion end of the pin is provided with an end surface, and the end surface is attachable to the protrusion of the terminal.

[0071] Optionally, the terminal is abutted against both ends of the cavity in the axial direction, respectively.

[0072] These techniques can be used alone or in any suitable combination. The foregoing overview is provided as a general introduction to some embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0073] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent and readily understood by referring to the following detailed description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electrical connector in which a pin is at least partially inserted, according to some embodiments; Figure 2 is a perspective view of an electrical connector Figure 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the electrical connector of Figure 3 is a perspective view of a terminal of the electrical connector of Figure 1 , showing the terminal having three first portions, according to some embodiments; Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector of Figure 1 , taken along a horizontal direction that bisects the sleeve radially, in which the end of the pin is above one of the electrically conductive elements (e.g., a compliant material strip) of the terminal; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector of Figure 4 , showing Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector of Figure 1a gap between the circumferential surface of the outer wall of the pin shown, wherein portions of the illustrative dashed lines in the gap are reserved for reference; Figure 6 is Figure 4 a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector of Figure 3 shown, showing a gap between the terminal and the inner wall of the sleeve shown, the gap being developed along a straight line that is bisected into Figure 4 the same bisected line segments shown; Figure 7 is a schematic view showing Figure 5 a gap between the terminal and the circumferential surface of the outer wall of the pin shown, the gap being developed along a straight line that is bisected into Figure 5 the same bisected line segments shown; Figure 8 is a schematic view showing Figure 6 a gap between the terminal and the inner wall of the sleeve shown, the gap being developed along a straight line that is bisected into Figure 6 the same bisected line segments shown; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a terminal according to some embodiments, showing a terminal having four first portions; Figure 10 is a schematic view of a gap between the terminal of Figure 9 and the circumferential surface of the outer wall of the pin, the gap being developed along a straight line; Figure 11 is a schematic view of a gap between the terminal of Figure 9 and the inner wall of the sleeve, the gap being developed along a straight line; Figure 12 is a perspective view of a terminal according to some embodiments, showing a terminal having five first portions; and Figure 13 is a perspective view of a terminal according to some embodiments, showing a terminal having six first portions.

[0074] Reference numerals: 10 can refer to a terminal; 11 can refer to an electrical element; 111 can refer to a first portion; 112 can refer to a first end; 113 can refer to a second end; 114 can refer to an opening; 12 can refer to a member; 13 can refer to a protrusion; and 14 can refer to a second portion; 20 can refer to a sleeve; 21 can refer to a chamber; and 211 can refer to a wall; 30 can refer to a pin; 31 can refer to an end face; and 311 can refer to a surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] The inventors have recognized and appreciated connector design techniques for making reliable, compliant electrical connectors with high current capacity. Such connectors can have lower insertion and removal forces than existing connectors with similar current carrying capabilities. Alternatively or additionally, these techniques can enable the connectors to engage pins over a shorter length than existing connectors and can occupy less volume. Connectors made according to the techniques described herein can be configured to achieve desired contact area and contact force while accommodating the length of the mating pin, which can simplify the design and operation of compact electronic systems while providing the same or greater current.

[0076] An electrical connector with high current capacity can have a sleeve and a terminal disposed in the sleeve. The terminal can include one or more conductive elements. Each conductive element can include a first portion having a bend and a second portion having a band connecting adjacent first portions. In some embodiments, the first portion can include an outermost point that abuts the sleeve. In some embodiments, the terminal can be movable in the sleeve in order to compensate for any misalignment between the sleeve and a mating pin.

[0077] The second portion can be radially expanded by the pin when the pin is inserted into the terminal. The expansion of the second portion can increase the contact area and contact force between the first portion and the sleeve in order to reliably connect the pin to the sleeve through the second portion to the first portion. Each conductive element can have a first end and a second end disposed in the first portion and separated from each other. Expanding the terminal can include enlarging the distance between the first end and the second end. The number of first portions of each conductive element can be configured to achieve a desired contact area and contact force. The terminal can include a plurality of conductive elements, and the number can be selected according to the length of the pin.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first portion of the terminal can be configured to expand and contract in a radial direction of the terminal in order to stably rest against an inner wall of the sleeve. The pin can stretch the terminal when the pin is inserted into the terminal such that the first portion of the terminal can extend outward in the radial direction to electrically connect the pin to the sleeve through the terminal. For example, the first portion of the terminal can stably rest against the inner wall of the sleeve. The number of first portions can be configurable according to a desired force for the mating pin.

[0079] The terminal can include a plurality of conductive elements, each of which can include a plurality of first portions. The conductive elements can be stacked in an axial direction. The number of stacked conductive elements can be configured according to the length of the mating pin such that the terminal can occupy a relatively small volume. Such a configuration can achieve both stable interconnection and easy mating / unmating. Furthermore, since the structure of the terminal is small and simple, the manufacturing cost of the electrical connector is low and beneficial to product production.

[0080] refer to Figures 1 to 3 As shown in the figure, the electrical connector may include terminals 10 disposed within the sleeve 20. The electrical connector may mate with pins 30. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terminals are connected to a portion of an electronic system, which is not shown for simplicity.

[0081] In the example shown, terminal 10 includes four conductive elements 11. Each of the conductive elements 11 is annular in shape. The conductive elements 11 are sequentially connected and stacked in the axial direction 102. Each of the conductive elements 11 has three first portions 111 distributed around the outer side of the conductive element 11 and a second portion 14 connecting adjacent first portions 111.

[0082] The first portion 111 can be configured to expand and contract in the radial direction of the conductive element 11. As shown, the sleeve 20 includes an annular chamber 21. Terminals 10 are disposed in the chamber 21, wherein the first portion 111 abuts against (presses against) the wall 211 of the chamber 21. Figure 4 As shown, at least the outermost point of the first part 11 is disposed on the annular shape of the chamber 21.

[0083] Figure 3 A terminal 10 of an electrical connector configured as a wave spring is shown. It can be seen that the wave spring has a compliant material strip (configured herein as a spring sheet) shaped to contact the mating part at each of a plurality of locations around the periphery of a mating part (e.g., pin 30) inserted into the terminal 10.

[0084] This terminal 10 allows the spring sheet 11 to be stamped from a metal sheet. The thickness of the sheet can define the radial range 108 of each spring sheet 11. The surface of the sheet can define the surface 110 of each spring sheet facing the center 104. Figure 4 Pin 30 can be inserted into terminal 10. Pin 30 can be annular in shape. Figure 5 As shown, the second portion 14 may have an end point disposed on the annular shape of the pin 30. When the pin 30 is inserted into the terminal, the surface 311 of the pin 30 may abut against the inner surface of the conductive element 11 of the terminal 10. The pin 30 may push the first portion 111 of the terminal 10 to extend outward in the radial direction of the conductive element 11 and abut against the wall 211 of the cavity 21 of the sleeve 20, thereby forming a connection between the pin 30, the terminal 10 and the sleeve 20.

[0085] By expansion and contraction of the first portions 111 in the radial direction of the conductive elements 11, the first portions 111 are able to stably abut against the inner wall of the sleeve 20 when extending outward. When the pin 30 is inserted into the terminal 10, the pin 30 stretches the conductive elements 11, and the first portions 111 extend outward in the radial direction of the conductive elements 11 to stably abut against the inner wall of the sleeve 20, thereby forming a connection by the terminal 10 with the sleeve 20.

[0086] The terminal 10 has a small volume, which can be set according to the length of the pin 30. As shown, a plurality of conductive elements 11 are connected in series in the axial direction according to the length of the pin 30. Therefore, the terminal 10 has strong adaptability. For example, although in the example shown the terminal 10 has four conductive elements 11 connected in the axial direction 102, it should be understood that the number of conductive elements 11 can be changed (more or less) according to the length of the pin for which the terminal 10 is configured to cooperate. Figures 1 to 3

[0087] The elastic force applied by the terminal 10 to the sleeve 20 can be controlled by the number of connected conductive elements 11. The number of connected conductive elements 11 can be selected to provide sufficient force to achieve a secure connection while avoiding excessive force that can make it difficult to remove and insert the pin 30. For example, more than three first portions 111 can be provided so that there are more connection points between the terminal 10 and the inner wall of the sleeve 20, which can ensure stable current overload capacity, making the terminal have better practicality.

[0088] With reference to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 , in some embodiments of the present disclosure, each of the conductive elements 11 is provided with a first end 112 and a second end 113. The first end 112 and the second end 113 can be adjacent to each other. The first end 112 and the second end 113 can cooperate to define an opening 114. For example, as shown, the opening 114 can be located in one of the first portions 111. Figures 4 to 6

[0089] Figure 4 ​​is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector along a horizontal direction. As shown, the openings 114 are located in one of the first portions 111. When the pin 30 is inserted, the conductive elements 11 extend outward in a radial direction, thereby expanding the openings 114 to separate the first end 112 and the second end 113 further away from each other. The surface 311 of the pin 30 can rest against the inner side surface of the conductive elements 11. As the conductive elements 11 stretch, the two sides of each of the first portions 111 exert outward pressure on the corresponding first portion 111. As a result, the first portions 111 exert greater force on the inner wall of the sleeve 20, making the connection more stable. Alternatively or additionally, each of the first portions 111 can be configured as a smooth spherical surface for contact with the wall 211.

[0090] As can be seen from Figure 4 , the terminal 10 can include one or more conductive elements 11 that at least partially encircle an area having a center 104. Each of the conductive elements 11 can include three first portions 111 that are each offset from the center 104 by more than the first radius 106. Each of the conductive elements 11 can also include a plurality of second portions 14 that connect adjacent first portions 111 and are offset from the center 104 by less than the first radius 106.

[0091] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 7 , Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector showing the gap between the terminal 10 and the circumferential surface of the outer wall of the pin 30, and Figure 7 is a schematic view showing the gap between the terminal 10 and the circumferential surface of the outer wall of the pin 30, which is developed along a straight line. As shown, the length of the straight line can be equal to the circumferential length of the outer wall of the pin 30. As shown, the straight line is bisected, corresponding to Figure 3 the line segment shown by the dashed line in FIG. 11. The line segment of the straight line and the line segment of the curve of the surface 311 of the outer wall of the pin 30 can have the same length.

[0092] With the terminal 10 provided with three first portions 111 as an example, after the surfaces 311 of the terminal 10 and the pin 30 are developed along a straight line, the gap formed between the terminal 10 and the surfaces 311 of the pin 30 can exhibit a smooth cosine wave shape change after three-dimensional development. The peak portions can represent the first portions 111 of the conductive element 11. The line segment areas between the first portions 111 and the surfaces 311 can represent the gaps between the first portions 111 and the surfaces 311. The grooves can represent the contact starting points between the conductive element 11 and the surfaces 311 (for example, the line segment areas between the surfaces 311 and the contact starting points can represent the interference between the conductive element 11 and the pin 30). As shown by developing the terminal 10 and the surfaces 311 of the pin 30 along a straight line, the gap formed between the terminal 10 and the surfaces 311 of the pin 30 can exhibit a smooth cosine wave shape change. Therefore, there is interference between the conductive element 11 and the pin 30.

[0093] The line segment areas with larger areas can indicate larger interference between the conductive element 11 and the pin 30, and thus indicate larger pressing force of the pin 30 on the conductive element 11. Larger pressing force of the pin 30 on the conductive element 11 can cause larger abutting force of the first portions 111 on the inner wall of the sleeve 20.

[0094] The gap formed between the terminal 10 and the surfaces 311 of the pin 30 can be configured to have a smooth shape change (for example, a smooth cosine wave shape change). Therefore, the lengths of the line segments in the line segment areas and the structural deformation, the contact state with the pin 30 and the stress state of the conductive element 11 can gradually change, thereby achieving structural reliability of the conductive element 11 and effective use of materials.

[0095] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 8 , Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector, which shows the gap between the terminal 10 and the inner wall of the sleeve 20, and Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the gap between the terminal 10 and the inner wall of the sleeve 20, which is developed along a straight line. As shown, the length of the straight line can be equal to the circumferential length of the inner wall (for example, the wall 211) of the sleeve 20. As shown, the straight line is equidivided, corresponding to Figure 3 the line segments shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 11. The line segments of the straight line and the line segments of the curve of the inner wall (for example, the wall 211) of the sleeve 20 can have the same length.

[0096] With the terminal 10 provided with three first portions 111 as an example, after the terminal 10 and the inner wall of the sleeve 20 (for example, the wall 211 of the chamber 21) are unfolded along a straight line, the gap formed between the terminal 10 and the wall 211 can present a smooth cosine wave shape change. The peak portion can be a point on the outer side surface of the contact point between the conductive element 11 and the surface 311. The line segment area between the point and the wall 211 can represent the interference between the conductive element 11 and the wall 211. The groove can represent the contact starting point between the first portion 111 and the wall 211. As shown by unfolding the terminal 10 and the wall 211 along a straight line, the gap formed between the terminal 10 and the wall 211 can present a smooth cosine wave shape change after three-dimensional unfolding. Therefore, there is interference between the conductive element 11 and the wall 211.

[0097] The line segment area with a larger area can indicate a larger interference between the conductive element 11 and the wall 211, and thus a larger abutting (topping) force of the conductive element 11 against the wall 211, thereby achieving a stable connection.

[0098] The gap formed between the terminal 10 and the wall 211 can be configured to have a smooth shape change (for example, a smooth cosine wave shape change). Therefore, the length of the line segment in the line segment area and the structural deformation, the contact state with the wall 211 and the stress state of the conductive element 11 can gradually change, thereby achieving structural reliability of the conductive element 11 and effective use of materials.

[0099] Figures 9 to 11 An embodiment with a conductive element 11 provided with four first portions 111 is shown. Assuming that the diameter of the pin 30 is unchanged, the length of the pin is unchanged after being unfolded along a straight line. Since there are four peak portions representing the first portions 111 of the conductive element 11, the area of the line segment area between each of the first portions 111 and the surface 311 (which represents the gap between each of the first portions 111 and the surface 311) becomes smaller. As a result, the interference between the conductive element 11 and the pin 30 becomes smaller, and thus the pressing force of the pin 30 against the conductive element 11 becomes smaller. In addition, the smaller the pressing force of the pin 30 against the conductive element 11, the smaller the abutting (topping) force of the first portion 111 against the inner wall of the sleeve 20. Similarly, the length of the line segment in the line segment area also presents a cosine wave shape change, so that the structural deformation, the contact state with the wall 211 and the stress state of the conductive element 11 can all maintain the conductive element in a cosine-like gradual change state, thus ensuring the structural reliability of the conductive element 11 and the effective use of materials. The same applies when multiple first portions 111 are provided.

[0100] When the electrically conductive element 11 is provided with more first portions 111 such that the abutting (abutting against) force of the first portions 111 is reduced, there is still interference between the electrically conductive element 11 and the surface 311, and thus the terminal 10 still has connection stability. It should also be understood that as the number of first portions 111 increases, there are more contact points between the electrically conductive element 11 and the sleeve 20, thereby having greater current overload capacity.

[0101] Figure 12 and Figure 13 Embodiments with electrically conductive elements 11 provided with five first portions 111 and six first portions 111, respectively, are shown. The positions of the openings 114 can be unrestricted. The openings 114 can be arranged in the first portions 111 or arranged between adjacent first portions 111.

[0102] Reference is made to Figure 3 and Figure 2 In some embodiments of the present disclosure, two adjacent electrically conductive elements 11 can be connected by a member 12. The member 12 can be integrated with the electrically conductive element 11 by welding or by bulking that is easy to detach or connect. In this way, according to specific connection requirements, a rated number of electrically conductive elements 11 can be provided, which can be sequentially connected by the member 12.

[0103] The member 12 can be located on one side of the first portion 111. For example, the member 12 can be arranged on the upper side or the lower side (e.g., in the axial direction 102 of the terminal 10) of the first portion 111. The member 12 can be used to connect the first portions 111 of two adjacent electrically conductive elements 11. Alternatively or additionally, the member 12 can be arranged on both sides of the first portion, which can increase the contact area between the first portion 111 and the wall 211, and thus further increase the current overload capacity, while enhancing the connection strength of the electrically conductive element 11.

[0104] The electrically conductive element 11 can include a plurality of second portions 14. The number of second portions 14 can be determined according to the number of first portions 111. The two ends of the second portion 14 can be connected with the ends of two adjacent first portions 111, respectively, to connect the first portions 111 in series.

[0105] The member 12 can be arranged between adjacent first portions 111 (e.g., on one side of the second portion 14). The member 12 can also be arranged in other positions, such as one side of the joint between the second portion 14 and the first portion 111. The electrically conductive element 11 can overlap in the axial direction 102 to increase the length of the terminal, thereby enabling the production of terminals with different lengths.

[0106] Reference is made to Figures 1 to 4In some embodiments of the present disclosure, one side of the conductive element 11 can be provided with a protrusion 13. The protrusion 13 can be located between two adjacent first portions 111. One end of the protrusion 13 can be arranged on one side of the conductive element 11 and between two adjacent first portions 111. When the pin 30 is inserted into the terminal 10, the surface 311 can first contact the protrusion 13 to stretch the conductive element 11. This configuration can prevent the surface of the pin 30 from being scratched by the edge of the conductive element 11. The protrusion 13 located between two adjacent first portions 111 can facilitate stretching the side surface of the conductive element 11 in contact with the pin 30, thereby increasing the contact area between the two first portions.

[0107] According to aspects of the present disclosure, the length of the terminal 10 of the electrical connector can be adapted according to the pin 30. The number of first portions 111 of the terminal 10 of the electrical connector can be configured to provide a stable connection capability (e.g., under the elastic effect of the terminal 10). The connected conductive elements 11 can be configured to enable a controllable removal and insertion force to facilitate the insertion and removal of the pin 30 into and from the electrical connector, thereby providing a comfortable user experience. The techniques described herein can also enable a small and simple structure of the terminal 10, such that the manufacturing cost of the electrical connector is low and more favorable for product production.

[0108] Reference is made to Figures 1 to 2 In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the insertion end of the pin 30 can be provided with an end surface 31. The end surface 31 can be shaped (e.g., curved) such that the end surface 31 can be attachable to the protrusion 13 of the terminal 10. The arrangement of the end surface 31 can facilitate the insertion of the pin 30 and thus the contact with the protrusion 13 in the terminal 10, thereby facilitating the attachment of the pin 30 to the protrusion 13 and the inner side surface of the conductive element 11.

[0109] Reference is made to Figure 2 In some embodiments of the present disclosure, both ends of the terminal 10 in the axial direction 102 can be respectively abutted on both ends of the chamber 21, which can reduce the risk of the terminal 10 coming off the sleeve 20.

[0110] Various aspects are described in the present disclosure, including but not limited to the following aspects: 1. A terminal (e.g., terminal 10) comprising one or more electrically conductive elements (e.g., electrically conductive element 11) at least partially encircling an area having a center (e.g., center 104), each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprising: at least two first portions (e.g., first portions 111), each of the first portions being offset from the center by more than a first radius (e.g., first radius 106); and a plurality of second portions (e.g., second portions 14) connecting adjacent ones of the at least two first portions and being offset from the center by less than the first radius.

[0111] 2. The terminal of aspect 1 or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements is configured to expand and contract in a radial direction relative to the center of the area.

[0112] 3. The terminal of aspect 1 or any other aspect, wherein the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises two electrically conductive elements stacked in an axial direction extending perpendicular to a radial direction relative to the center of the area.

[0113] 4. The terminal of aspect 3 or any other aspect, wherein the terminal comprises a member connecting the two electrically conductive elements.

[0114] 5. The terminal of aspect 4 or any other aspect, wherein the member is disposed between and joins first portions of the two electrically conductive elements.

[0115] 6. The terminal of aspect 1 or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises a first end and a second end separated from each other.

[0116] 7. The terminal of aspect 6 or any other aspect, wherein for each of the one or more electrically conductive elements: the first end and the second end are disposed in one of the at least two first portions.

[0117] 8. The terminal of aspect 1 or any other aspect, wherein at least one of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises one or more protrusions extending from an edge of the at least one electrically conductive element and disposed between respective adjacent first portions of the at least one electrically conductive element; and the one or more protrusions are angled away from the center.

[0118] 9. The terminal of aspect 1 or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises three to six first portions.

[0119] 10. The terminal of any one of aspects 1-9, or any other aspect, wherein the one or more electrically conductive elements are stamped from a sheet of metal.

[0120] 11. The terminal of aspect 10, or any other aspect, wherein a thickness of the sheet defines a radial extent of each of the one or more electrically conductive elements.

[0121] 12. The terminal of aspect 10, or any other aspect, wherein a surface of the sheet defines a surface of the one or more electrically conductive elements facing the region.

[0122] 13. The terminal of any one of aspects 1-9, or any other aspect, wherein each of the plurality of second portions comprises an elongate band.

[0123] 14. The terminal of aspect 13, or any other aspect, wherein the elongate bands of the one or more electrically conductive elements are disposed in parallel.

[0124] 15. The terminal of aspect 13, or any other aspect, wherein each of the at least two first portions comprises a bend.

[0125] 16. An electrical connector comprising: a sleeve (e.g., sleeve 20) comprising an inner wall (e.g., wall 211) defining a chamber (e.g., chamber 21); and a terminal disposed in the chamber and comprising an electrically conductive element comprising: first portions abutting the inner wall of the sleeve; and second portions disposed within the chamber and connecting adjacent first portions.

[0126] 17. The electrical connector of aspect 16, or any other aspect, wherein each of the first portions comprises an inflection point abutting the inner wall of the sleeve.

[0127] 18. The electrical connector of aspect 17, or any other aspect, comprising a plurality of gaps between portions of the terminal and the inner wall of the sleeve and separated from one another by the inflection points of the respective first portions of the terminal abutting the inner wall of the sleeve.

[0128] 19. The electrical connector of aspect 18, or any other aspect, wherein each of the plurality of gaps decreases toward a point of the respective first portion.

[0129] 20. The electrical connector of aspect 19, or any other aspect, wherein each of the plurality of gaps is symmetrical.

[0130] 21. The electrical connector of aspect 20, or any other aspect, wherein the plurality of gaps conform to a wave shape.

[0131] 22. The electrical connector of aspect 16, or any other aspect, wherein the electrically conductive element comprises a first end and a second end separate from the first end; and the first end and the second end are disposed in the first portion.

[0132] 23. The electrical connector of aspect 16, or any other aspect, wherein the terminal comprises a plurality of electrically conductive elements comprising the electrically conductive element; and the plurality of electrically conductive elements are stacked in an axial direction extending through the cavity of the sleeve.

[0133] 24. The electrical connector of aspect 23, or any other aspect, wherein the electrical connector comprises a plurality of members joining first portions of adjacent electrically conductive elements of the plurality of electrically conductive elements.

[0134] 25. The electrical connector of aspect 24, or any other aspect, wherein the electrical connector comprises a plurality of protrusions extending from edges of the second portions of the plurality of electrically conductive elements and angled away from a center of the cavity.

[0135] 26. A terminal to mate with a pin, the terminal comprising one or more electrically conductive elements at least partially encircling the pin, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprising at least two first portions and a plurality of second portions, wherein the plurality of second portions each contact a surface of the pin at a first radius from a center of the pin; and the at least two first portions connect adjacent second portions of the plurality of second portions and are offset from the center of the pin by more than the first radius.

[0136] 27. The terminal of aspect 26, or any other aspect, wherein the one or more electrically conductive elements are stamped from a sheet of metal.

[0137] 28. The terminal of aspect 27, or any other aspect, wherein a thickness of the sheet defines a radial extent of each of the one or more electrically conductive elements.

[0138] 29. The terminal of aspect 27, or any other aspect, wherein a surface of the sheet defines a surface of the one or more electrically conductive elements facing the center.

[0139] 30. The terminal of any one of aspects 26 through 29, or any other aspect, wherein each of the plurality of second portions comprises an elongated band.

[0140] 31. The terminal of aspect 30, or any other aspect, wherein the elongated bands of the one or more electrically conductive elements are disposed in parallel.

[0141] 32. The terminal of aspect 30, or any other aspect, wherein each of the at least two first portions comprises a bend.

[0142] 33. The terminal of aspect 26, or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises one or more protrusions extending from an edge of the second portion of the electrically conductive element.

[0143] 34. A method of operating an electrical connector, the electrical connector comprising a sleeve having a cavity and a terminal disposed in the cavity, and the method comprising: inserting a pin into the terminal; expanding the terminal; and generating pressure against a circumferential surface of the pin.

[0144] 35. The method of aspect 34, or any other aspect, wherein the method comprises generating pressure against an inner wall of the sleeve.

[0145] 36. The method of aspect 34, or any other aspect, wherein the terminal comprises one or more electrically conductive elements at least partially encircling a region having a center; and each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprises at least two first portions each offset from the center by more than a first radius and a plurality of second portions connecting adjacent ones of the at least two first portions and offset from the center by less than the first radius.

[0146] 37. The method of aspect 36, or any other aspect, wherein expanding the terminal comprises: expanding the at least two first portions such that an area of contact between the at least two first portions and an inner wall of the sleeve increases; and expanding the plurality of second portions such that the plurality of second portions conform to the circumferential surface of the pin.

[0147] 38. The method of aspect 36 or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements includes a first end disposed in a first one of the at least two first portions and a second end disposed in the first one of the at least two first portions and separate from the first end; and expanding the terminal includes further increasing a distance between the first end and the second end.

[0148] 39. The method of aspect 36 or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements includes a plurality of protrusions extending from edges of the plurality of second portions of the electrically conductive element and angled away from the center; and expanding the terminal includes, for each of the one or more electrically conductive elements, bringing the plurality of protrusions into contact with the pin so as to direct the pin into contact with the plurality of second portions of the electrically conductive element.

[0149] 40. A wave spring (e.g., terminal 10) comprising a plurality of spring pieces (e.g., electrically conductive elements 11), wherein the spring pieces are annularly arranged, sequentially connected and stacked in an axial direction, each of the spring pieces is provided with at least three abutment portions (e.g., first portions 111) distributed around an outer side of the respective spring piece, and the abutment portions are configured to expand and contract in a radial direction of the respective spring piece.

[0150] 41. The wave spring of aspect 40 or any other aspect, wherein each of the spring pieces is provided with a first end and a second end configured to abut against each other and cooperatively define an opening (e.g., opening 114).

[0151] 42. The wave spring of aspect 41 or any other aspect, wherein the opening is disposed in one of the at least three abutment portions.

[0152] 43. The wave spring of aspect 40 or any other aspect, wherein adjacent ones of the plurality of spring pieces are connected by a connecting sheet (e.g., member 12).

[0153] 44. The wave spring of aspect 43 or any other aspect, wherein each of the plurality of spring pieces further includes a plurality of connecting portions (e.g., second portions 14), each of the connecting portions has two ends respectively connected with adjacent ones of the at least three abutment portions, the connecting sheet is located on one side of the respective abutment portion or one side of the respective connecting portion, and the connecting sheet is configured to connect the abutment portions of the adjacent two spring pieces.

[0154] 45. The wave spring according to aspect 40 or any other aspect, wherein one side of each of the plurality of spring pieces is further provided with a guiding portion (e.g., the protrusion 13), and the guiding portion is located between adjacent ones of the at least three abutment portions.

[0155] 46. The wave spring according to aspect 40 or any other aspect, wherein the at least three abutment portions comprise three to six abutment portions.

[0156] 47. A plug terminal connector comprising the wave spring according to any one of aspects 39 to 45 or any other aspect, wherein the plug terminal connector further comprises a sleeve, wherein an annular receiving chamber is arranged in the sleeve, the wave spring is arranged in the receiving chamber, and the abutment portions abut against a chamber wall (e.g., the wall 211) of the receiving chamber (e.g., the chamber 21); and a contact pin, wherein the contact pin is insertable into the wave spring.

[0157] 48. The plug terminal connector according to aspect 47 or any other aspect, wherein a plug end of the contact pin is provided with an arc-shaped surface, and the arc-shaped surface is attachable to the guiding portion of the wave spring.

[0158] 49. The plug terminal connector according to aspect 47 or any other aspect, wherein both ends of the wave spring in the axial direction abut against both ends of the receiving chamber, respectively.

[0159] 50. A terminal comprising one or more electrically conductive elements, each of the one or more electrically conductive elements comprising: a plurality of first portions each having an outermost point (e.g., the point 112) disposed on a circumference of a first annular shape (e.g., the wall 211 of the sleeve 20 as shown in Figure 4 FIG. 2); and a plurality of second portions (e.g., the points 114) disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of first portions and having end points joining respective first portions, end portions of the plurality of second portions being disposed on a circumference of a second annular shape (e.g., the surface 311 of the contact pin 30 as shown in Figure 4 FIG. 3).

[0160] 51. The terminal according to aspect 50 or any other aspect, wherein the first annular shape and the second annular shape are concentric.

[0161] 52. The terminal according to aspect 50 or any other aspect, wherein a portion of each of the one or more electrically conductive elements between adjacent outermost points of the plurality of first portions is each separated from the first annular shape by a gap (e.g., gap 120); and the gap decreases toward the respective outermost point.

[0162] 53. The terminal according to aspect 52 or any other aspect, wherein the gap is symmetrical.

[0163] 54. The terminal according to aspect 50 or any other aspect, wherein each of the plurality of first portions is separated from the second annular shape by a first gap (e.g., gap 116); and each of the plurality of second portions is separated from the second annular shape by a second gap (e.g., gap 118) that is different from the first gap.

[0164] 55. The terminal according to aspect 50 or any other aspect, wherein each of the one or more electrically conductive elements includes a first end disposed in a first portion; and a second end disposed in the first portion and separated from the first end.

[0165] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes can be made within the knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the purpose of the present disclosure.

[0166] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail above, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, and the same or similar reference numerals in all the drawings can represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended to explain the present disclosure only, but should not be understood as limiting the present disclosure.

[0167] In the description of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the directional or positional relationship related to the directional description (such as the directional or positional relationship indicated by the terms “up”, “down”, “front”, “back”, “left”, “right”, etc.) is based on the directional or positional relationship shown in the drawings, which is only used for the convenience of the description of the present disclosure and simplification of the description, and does not indicate or imply that the indicated device or element must have a particular orientation and be constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0168] In the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise clearly defined, the terms “set”, “mount” and “connect” should be understood in a broad sense, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in the present disclosure in combination with the specific content of the technical solution.

Claims

1. A terminal, comprising: One or more conductive elements, said one or more conductive elements at least partially surrounding a region having a center, each of said one or more conductive elements comprising: At least two first portions, each of which is offset from the center by a first radius; and A plurality of second portions, wherein the plurality of second portions connect adjacent first portions of the at least two first portions and are offset from the center by a radius less than the first radius.

2. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements is configured to expand and contract radially relative to the center of the region.

3. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more conductive elements comprise two conductive elements stacked in an axial direction that extends radially relative to the center of the region.

4. The terminal according to claim 3, wherein, The terminal includes: A component that connects the two conductive elements.

5. The terminal according to claim 4, wherein: The component is disposed between the two conductive elements and connects the first part of the two conductive elements.

6. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements includes a first end and a second end that are separate from each other.

7. The terminal according to claim 6, wherein, For each of the one or more conductive elements: The first end and the second end are disposed in one of the at least two first parts.

8. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the one or more conductive elements includes one or more protrusions that extend from an edge of the at least one conductive element and are disposed between corresponding adjacent first portions of the at least one conductive element; as well as The one or more protrusions are tilted away from the center.

9. The terminal according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements comprises three to six first parts.

10. The terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The one or more conductive elements are formed by stamping metal sheets.

11. The terminal according to claim 10, wherein: The thickness of the sheet defines the radial range of each of the one or more conductive elements.

12. The terminal according to claim 10, wherein: The surface of the sheet defines the surface of the one or more conductive elements facing the region.

13. The terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: Each of the plurality of second parts includes an elongated strip.

14. The terminal according to claim 13, wherein: The elongated strips of the one or more conductive elements are arranged in parallel.

15. The terminal according to claim 13, wherein: Each of the at least two first parts includes a curved portion.

16. An electrical connector, comprising: A sleeve, the sleeve including an inner wall defining a chamber; as well as Terminals, said terminals being disposed in said chamber and including conductive elements, said conductive elements comprising: The first portion of the inner wall adjacent to the sleeve; as well as The second part is disposed within the cavity and connects to the adjacent first part.

17. The electrical connector according to claim 16, wherein: Each of the first portions includes an inflection point adjacent to the inner wall of the sleeve.

18. The electrical connector according to claim 17, wherein, The electrical connector includes: A plurality of gaps between the portion of the terminal and the inner wall of the sleeve and separated from each other by the inflection point of the respective first portion of the terminal adjacent to the inner wall of the sleeve.

19. The electrical connector according to claim 18, wherein: Each of the plurality of gaps decreases toward the point of the corresponding first portion.

20. The electrical connector according to claim 19, wherein: Each of the plurality of gaps is symmetrical.

21. The electrical connector according to claim 20, wherein: The multiple gaps conform to the waveform.

22. The electrical connector according to claim 16, wherein: The conductive element includes a first end and a second end separate from the first end; and The first end and the second end are disposed in the first part.

23. The electrical connector according to claim 16, wherein: The terminal includes a plurality of conductive elements comprising the conductive element; and The plurality of conductive elements are stacked in the axial direction of the chamber extending through the sleeve.

24. The electrical connector according to claim 23, wherein, The electrical connector includes: Multiple components, wherein the multiple components connect the first portions of adjacent conductive elements among the multiple conductive elements.

25. The electrical connector according to claim 24, wherein, The electrical connector includes: Multiple protrusions extending from the edge of the second portion of the plurality of conductive elements and inclined away from the center of the chamber.

26. A terminal that mates with a pin, the terminal comprising: One or more conductive elements at least partially surrounding the pin, each of the one or more conductive elements comprising: At least two first parts and multiple second parts, wherein: Each of the plurality of second portions contacts the surface of the pin at a distance of a first radius from the center of the pin; and The at least two first portions connect adjacent second portions among the plurality of second portions and are offset from the center of the pin by a radius greater than the first radius.

27. The terminal according to claim 26, wherein: The one or more conductive elements are formed by stamping metal sheets.

28. The terminal according to claim 27, wherein: The thickness of the sheet defines the radial range of each of the one or more conductive elements.

29. The terminal according to claim 27, wherein: The surface of the sheet defines the center-facing surface of the one or more conductive elements.

30. The terminal according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein: Each of the plurality of second parts includes an elongated strip.

31. The terminal according to claim 30, wherein: The elongated strips of the one or more conductive elements are arranged in parallel.

32. The terminal according to claim 30, wherein: Each of the at least two first parts includes a curved portion.

33. The terminal according to claim 26, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements includes one or more protrusions extending from the edge of the second portion of the conductive element.

34. A method of operating an electrical connector, the electrical connector comprising a sleeve having a cavity and terminals disposed in the cavity, and the method comprising: Insert the pin into the terminal; Expand the terminal; as well as Pressure is generated against the circumferential surface of the insert.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein, The method includes: Pressure is generated by the pressure against the inner wall of the sleeve.

36. The method of claim 34, wherein: The terminal includes one or more conductive elements that at least partially surround a region having a center; as well as Each of the one or more conductive elements includes at least two first portions and a plurality of second portions, each of the at least two first portions being offset from the center by a first radius, and the plurality of second portions connecting adjacent first portions of the at least two first portions and being offset from the center by a first radius.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein, Expanding the terminal includes: Expanding the at least two first portions such that the contact area between the at least two first portions and the inner wall of the sleeve increases; and The plurality of second portions are expanded such that the plurality of second portions conform to the circumferential surface of the insert.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements includes a first end disposed in one of the first portions of the at least two first portions, and a second end disposed in the first portion of the at least two first portions and separate from the first end; as well as Expanding the terminal includes further increasing the distance between the first end and the second end.

39. The method of claim 36, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements includes a plurality of protrusions that extend from the edges of the plurality of second portions of the conductive element and slope away from the center; as well as Expanding the terminal includes, for each of the one or more conductive elements, contacting the plurality of protrusions with the pin in order to guide the pin into contact with the plurality of second portions of the conductive element.

40. A wave spring, comprising: A plurality of spring sheets are arranged in a ring, the spring sheets are sequentially connected and stacked in the axial direction, each of the spring sheets has at least three adjacent portions distributed around the outer side of the corresponding spring sheet, and the adjacent portions are configured to expand and contract in the radial direction of the corresponding spring sheet.

41. The wave spring according to claim 40, wherein, Each of the spring sheets has a first end and a second end, which are configured to abut against each other and cooperate to define an opening.

42. The wave spring according to claim 41, wherein, The opening is provided in one of the at least three adjacent portions.

43. The wave spring according to claim 40, wherein, Adjacent spring sheets among the plurality of spring sheets are connected by connecting sheets.

44. The wave spring according to claim 43, wherein, Each of the plurality of spring sheets further includes a plurality of connecting portions, each of the connecting portions having two ends connected to adjacent adjacent portions of the at least three adjacent portions, the connecting sheet being located on one side of the corresponding adjacent portion or on one side of the corresponding connecting portion, and the connecting sheet being configured to connect the adjacent portions of two adjacent spring sheets.

45. The wave spring according to claim 40, wherein, Each of the plurality of spring sheets is further provided with a guide portion on one side, and the guide portion is located between adjacent adjacent portions of the at least three adjacent portions.

46. ​​The wave spring according to claim 40, wherein, The at least three adjacent portions include three to six adjacent portions.

47. A plug terminal connector comprising a wave spring according to any one of claims 39 to 45, wherein, The plug terminal connector also includes: A sleeve, wherein an annular receiving chamber is disposed within the sleeve, a wave spring is disposed within the receiving chamber, and the adjacent portion abuts against the chamber wall of the receiving chamber; and A contact pin, wherein the contact pin is capable of being inserted into the wave spring.

48. The plug-terminal connector according to claim 47, wherein, The plug end of the contact pin has an arc-shaped surface, and the arc-shaped surface can be attached to the guide portion of the wave spring.

49. The plug-terminal connector according to claim 47, wherein, The two ends of the wave spring in the axial direction respectively abut against the two ends of the receiving chamber.

50. A terminal, comprising: One or more conductive elements, each of the one or more conductive elements comprising: A plurality of first portions, each having an outermost point disposed on a first annular shape; and A plurality of second portions are disposed between adjacent first portions and have endpoints connecting the respective first portions, the end portions of the plurality of second portions being disposed on a second annular shape.

51. The terminal according to claim 50, wherein: The first annular shape and the second annular shape are concentric.

52. The terminal according to claim 50, wherein: Each of the one or more conductive elements has a portion between the adjacent outermost points of the plurality of first portions separated from the first annular shape by a gap; and The gap decreases toward the corresponding outermost point.

53. The terminal according to claim 52, wherein: The gap is symmetrical.

54. The terminal according to claim 50, wherein: Each of the plurality of first portions is separated from the second annular shape by a first gap; and Each of the plurality of second portions is separated from the second annular shape by a second gap that is different from the first gap.

55. The terminal according to claim 50, wherein, Each of the one or more conductive elements includes: Set at the first end in the first part; and The second end is located within the first portion and is separate from the first end.

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