connector pin

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector pin (10) comprising an electrically conductive elongated flat body (12) and an electrically insulating element (14). At least one protrusion (52) extends from a flat base (50) of a front edge (48) of the elongated flat body (12). The protrusion (52) has a through opening (64). The electrically insulating element (14) covers the front edge (48) and the protrusion (52) so as to fill the through opening (64). The main protrusion (62) can have at least one trapezoidal cross section in a cross sectional plane parallel to the flat base (50) of the front edge (48).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to connector pins, particularly to connector pins having an elongated, flat body, and to connector elements comprising a housing and a connector pin. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical connector pins, particularly flat pins, and connector elements are typically used to connect a vehicle's electrical system to its battery or accumulator. This is especially true for electric or hybrid vehicles, which require the transmission of high current and / or voltage through connectors and therefore their pins.

[0003] Flat pins offer advantages over round pins, including the ability to be inserted in two different directions or used in angled (90°) or straight (180°) connectors. On the other hand, round pins require different models for each type of connector, increasing the complexity of component manufacturing.

[0004] Due to the high currents and voltages involved, connectors must meet stringent standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. These standards require protection of connector pins from accidental contact with human fingers or similar objects. These standards are part of the IP (Ingress Protection) classification, which defines the level of protection a device receives from foreign object intrusion and accidental contact. The IPXXB standard ensures protection of contact elements from accidental contact with objects similar in size to a human finger, such as a standard test finger with a diameter of 12mm and a length of 80mm. The IPXXB+ standard is an enhanced version of the IPXXB standard, providing additional protection, particularly through increased stringency in contact resistance testing and by ensuring protection is maintained even under harsher assembly or usage conditions. This is particularly relevant in the automotive industry, where vibration, temperature variations, and other environmental factors can affect the strength of connector pins and the connector itself.

[0005] In existing technologies, various solutions are used to prevent accidental contact with connector pins. For example, a protective collar is typically installed around the contacts to create an insulating barrier, which forms a physical barrier to prevent direct contact with human fingers.

[0006] Document US2021257768A1 describes the use of insulating members mounted on the mounting portion of a flat connector via forced interlocking (“press-fit”) to cover certain portions of the terminals and limit the risk of direct contact. This solution is essentially based on an interlocking system; however, the insulating members may still be susceptible to undesirable movement in certain directions, particularly under vibration. Furthermore, this assembly method leaves the risk of misalignment or gradual movement of the insulating members over time, which compromises the mechanical stability of the connector pins.

[0007] Therefore, a more robust and reliable solution is desired that allows for reduced movement of the electrical insulation components in all directions, thereby improving the safety and durability of the connector pins. Advantageously, the solution must be easily adaptable to existing connector pins while meeting the requirements of protection standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The objective of this invention is achieved through a connector pin.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector pin includes a flat body extending along an insertion direction. The connector pin can be inserted into a mating connector according to the insertion direction. The elongated flat body is conductive. The elongated flat body includes two contact surfaces opposite each other. The contact surfaces are connected to each other via side edges along the insertion direction. A front edge of the elongated flat body connects to the side edges. The front edge includes a flat base perpendicular to the insertion direction. A main protrusion extends from the flat base of the front edge along the insertion direction. The main protrusion includes at least one through opening. The connector pin also includes an electrical insulating element. The electrical insulating element covers the front edge and the main protrusion to fill the through opening. The electrical insulating element at least partially covers the side edges.

[0010] Therefore, the arrangement of the electrical insulation elements allows for compliance with protection standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. The electrical insulation elements specifically cover critical portions of the elongated, flat body, particularly to meet safety standards, thereby ensuring physical insulation suitable for preventing direct contact between the conductive, elongated, flat body of the pin and human fingers.

[0011] Furthermore, filling the through-opening with an electrically insulating element provides a stronger grip between the latter and the elongated, flat body. This allows for increased durability of the connector pins.

[0012] This arrangement also contributes to better mechanical strength of the connector pins, especially by reducing the risk of movement or detachment of the electrical insulation components.

[0013] The connector pin according to the first aspect of the invention can be further improved through the following embodiments.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the main protrusion may have a wall that extends obliquely from the flat base of the front edge along the insertion direction, particularly obliquely converging in the insertion direction.

[0015] The raised, sloping walls provide a gripping surface, allowing the electrical insulating element to adhere better to the metal surface of the elongated, flat body. The sloping walls prevent the electrical insulating element from accidentally disengaging or demolding under mechanical forces or vibration. Due to the sloping walls, a better stress distribution is achieved between the elongated, flat metal body and the electrical insulating element, which is typically made of plastic, reducing the risk of plastic cracking or metal deformation. This contributes to improved connector pin durability.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element can be integrally formed. In other words, the electrical insulating element can be designed as a single piece, without the need to assemble multiple components.

[0017] This embodiment provides enhanced structural integrity and eliminates potential joints or weak points. It also reduces the risk of misalignment or movement of electrical insulation components. The resulting electrical insulation components are thus more robust.

[0018] Electrically insulating elements can be made of electrically insulating materials, particularly polyamide 66 (PA66) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0019] According to one embodiment, an electrical insulating element can be overmolded onto an elongated, flat body.

[0020] Connector pins can be obtained through a manufacturing method that molds electrical insulating material onto an elongated flat body. This manufacturing method differs from so-called "press-fit" assembly methods, such as interlocking, particularly forced interlocking or press-fit interlocking. Overmolding provides a strong attachment between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body without requiring additional fasteners and / or assembling the elements together. Overmolding allows for complete coverage of critical portions of the elongated flat body, especially for safety compliance, thus ensuring physical insulation suitable for preventing direct contact between human fingers and the conductive elongated flat body of the pin. Overmolding also improves mechanical stability by preventing relative movement between the elongated flat body and the electrical insulating element.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the maximum thickness of the main protrusion can be strictly less than the maximum thickness between the two contact surfaces, with the thickness defined along a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0022] This thickness difference creates a supporting surface on the flat base of the elongated, flat body, which is covered by an electrical insulating element. This configuration facilitates better adhesion of the electrical insulating element to the elongated, flat body.

[0023] The maximum thickness between two contact surfaces can be equal to or less than 5 mm, and in particular equal to or less than 2 mm.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element may be flush with each surface of the elongated flat body. Specifically, the electrical insulating element may be flush with each contact surface of the elongated flat body. The electrical insulating element may also be flush with each side edge of the elongated flat body that is not covered by the electrical insulating element.

[0025] This configuration allows the connector pin to maintain its overall shape, retaining a basic rectangular form. It achieves geometric continuity between the electrical insulation element and the rest of the contact surface and sidewalls, thereby minimizing roughness and facilitating the insertion and removal of the pin from mating plugs or connectors. Furthermore, this configuration reduces the risk of hooking or misalignment without altering the external dimensions of the connector pin. It also ensures improved compatibility with existing mating connectors and plugs.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the main protrusion may have at least one trapezoidal cross-section in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base parallel to the front edge, particularly at least one isosceles trapezoidal cross-section in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base parallel to the front edge. In other words, the main protrusion may have a dovetail geometry. The dovetail shape provides mechanical locking, which prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body, thereby enhancing the structural cohesion of the connector pin.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the main protrusion may be formed by a first protrusion and a second protrusion, which are partially connected to each other by a connecting portion to define a through opening.

[0028] The redundancy of the protrusions on the front edge allows for enhanced mechanical stability of the connector pins. This redundancy also allows for increased support and locking points for conductive elements. Therefore, the distribution of mechanical stress throughout the structure can be improved. The connection portion is adapted to leave sufficient space between the protrusions to define a through opening.

[0029] In addition to the through opening, at least one of the two protrusions (first or second) may include a recess that may be covered by an electrical insulating element. Alternatively or in combination, at least one of the two protrusions (first or second protrusion) may include a through hole, different from the through opening, which may be filled by the electrical insulating element. Filling the recess and / or through hole with the electrical insulating element provides enhanced grip between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion, the second protrusion, or each of the two protrusions may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge. In other words, each main protrusion may have a dovetail geometry. The dovetail shape provides mechanical locking, which prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body, thereby enhancing the structural cohesion of the connector pin.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the trapezoidal shape of each protrusion may be defined by an isosceles trapezoid in the cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge, the isosceles trapezoid defining a short side parallel to the long side in the cross-sectional plane. The first and second protrusions may be arranged such that each short side is parallel to and faces each other in the cross-sectional plane.

[0032] The arrangement of two isosceles trapezoidal protrusions facing each other at their short sides allows for effective mechanical locking, thereby increasing resistance to unwanted movement. This arrangement promotes a uniform distribution of mechanical stress.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the connector pin may include at least one third protrusion extending at least partially from one of the side edges, the third protrusion including a through opening. An electrical insulating element may at least partially cover the third protrusion to fill the through opening.

[0034] This configuration allows for improved retention of the electrical insulating element along the side edges, which are subjected to stress during connector pin insertion into and removal from the mating plug. Furthermore, by filling the through-opening of the third protrusion with the electrical insulating element, better gripping between the electrical insulating element and one or more side edges of the elongated flat body is achieved. Thus, enhanced adhesion between the electrical insulating element and the side edges of the elongated flat body is obtained.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the connector pin may include a main protrusion at the front edge and at least a third protrusion at the side edge. In this embodiment, the main protrusion is not necessarily formed by the first and second protrusions. The third protrusion may then be described as an additional protrusion or a side protrusion.

[0036] According to one embodiment, at least one third protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction. In other words, the third protrusion may have a dovetail geometry. The dovetail shape provides mechanical locking, which prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body, thereby enhancing the structural cohesion of the connector pin.

[0037] Therefore, this configuration allows for improved retention of the electrical insulation components along the side edges, which are subjected to stress during the insertion and removal of the connector pins from the mating plug.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may be integrally connected to at least one third protrusion, particularly by means of an oblique angle.

[0039] This configuration improves the structural integrity of the slender, flat body. The bevel prevents the formation of sharp angles, which could weaken the structure by creating stress points or pose a risk of damaging electrical insulation components.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the through-opening can define a rectangular cross-section in a plane parallel to the contact surface. Therefore, the through-opening can include four inner walls. Each inner wall of the through-opening is in direct contact with the electrical insulating element. This facilitates adhesion of the electrical insulating element. A rectangular opening can distribute mechanical stress more evenly. Rectangular openings are easy to manufacture, especially using standard manufacturing methods.

[0041] According to a second aspect of the invention, the connector pin may include an elongated flat body along the insertion direction of the connector pin. The elongated flat body may be conductive and may include two contact surfaces opposite each other. The contact surfaces may be connected to each other along the insertion direction via side edges. A front edge of the elongated flat body may be connected to the side edges. The front edge may include a flat base perpendicular to the insertion direction. A first protrusion may extend from the flat base of the front edge, and the first protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge, particularly an isosceles trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge. The connector pin may also include an electrically insulating element. The electrically insulating element may cover the front edge and the first protrusion. In particular, the electrically insulating element may cover the entire front edge and the first protrusion. The electrically insulating element may at least partially cover the side edges.

[0042] Therefore, the arrangement of the electrical insulation elements allows for compliance with protection standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. The electrical insulation elements specifically cover critical portions of the elongated flat body, particularly to meet safety standards, thereby ensuring physical insulation suitable for preventing direct contact between human fingers and the conductive elongated flat body of the pin. The characteristics of the first protrusion, especially its specific shape and position on the leading edge of the pin, allow for reduced movement of the conductive element relative to the elongated flat body, which contributes to improved mechanical stability of the connector pin. Furthermore, the dovetail connection provided by this trapezoidal protrusion on the leading edge provides a more robust mechanical lock, restricting undesirable movement in multiple directions, not only in the insertion direction, but especially under vibration. This strengthens the retention between the conductive element and the elongated flat body, thereby reducing the risk of connector misalignment or disengagement.

[0043] The connector pin according to the second aspect of the invention can be further improved through the following embodiments.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the second protrusion may extend from the flat base of the front edge, and the second protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape in the cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge.

[0045] The redundancy of the protrusions on the front edge allows for enhanced mechanical stability of the connector pins. Increasing the support and locking points for conductive elements improves the distribution of mechanical stress throughout the structure.

[0046] According to one embodiment, each protrusion may have an isosceles trapezoidal shape in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base parallel to the front edge, the isosceles trapezoid defining a short side parallel to the long side in the cross-sectional plane, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion may be arranged such that each short side is parallel to and faces each other in the cross-sectional plane.

[0047] The arrangement of two isosceles trapezoidal protrusions facing each other at their short sides allows for effective mechanical locking, thus increasing resistance to unwanted movement. This arrangement promotes a uniform distribution of mechanical stress. It also leaves sufficient space between and around the protrusions to allow the electrical insulating element to make direct contact with the flat base of the leading edge, thereby promoting adhesion of the electrical insulating element.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may be different from each other in each cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge.

[0049] This allows the electrical insulating element to benefit from a larger support surface that is in direct contact with the flat base at the leading edge. This can increase the adhesion between the electrical insulating element, which is typically made of plastic, and the slender, flat metal body.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may join together at their respective short sides in at least one cross-sectional plane of the flat base parallel to the front edge, particularly in each cross-sectional plane of the flat base parallel to the front edge.

[0051] This allows for the creation of a stronger protruding structure, which helps improve the durability of the connector pins.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may extend from the flat base of the front edge to the free end of the protrusion in a single block, and the block may be provided with an opening, particularly a through opening, which extends in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0053] The structure formed in a single block with a through-hole allows for increased rigidity and better mechanical stability. This opening is filled with an electrically insulating element, thus providing better grip between the insulating element and the slender, flat body.

[0054] The first protrusion, and especially the first and second protrusions, can have a dovetail geometry. The dovetail shape provides mechanical locking, which prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated, flat body, thereby enhancing the structural cohesion of the connector pin.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion, particularly the first and second protrusions, may extend from the flat base of the front edge such that its walls are inclined, particularly convergingly inclined in the insertion direction.

[0056] The sloping walls provide additional gripping surfaces, allowing the electrical insulation element to adhere better to the metal surface of the elongated, flat body. This prevents unintentional detachment or demolding of the electrical insulation element under mechanical forces or vibration. Due to the sloping walls, a better stress distribution is achieved between the elongated, flat metal body and the electrical insulation element, which is typically made of plastic, reducing the risk of plastic cracking or metal deformation. This improves its durability.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the third protrusion may extend at least partially from one or more side edges, and the third protrusion may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0058] This configuration allows for improved retention of the electrical insulation components along the side edges, which are subjected to stress during the insertion and removal of the connector pins from the mating plug.

[0059] According to one embodiment, an opening, particularly a through opening or notch, may be formed between the third protrusion and the base of the side edge or each side edge, and the opening may extend in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0060] By filling the opening with an electrically insulating element, a better grip between the electrically insulating element and one or more side edges of the elongated, flat body is achieved. This results in enhanced adhesion between the electrically insulating element and the side edges of the elongated, flat body.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion, in particular each protrusion, may be formed to be recessed from the flat base of the front edge, in particular from the flat base of the front edge and the base of each side edge.

[0062] This arrangement creates a support surface on each edge of the slender, flat body, thus allowing for better adhesion of the electrical insulating elements.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion may be integrally connected to the third protrusion on each side edge, in particular by means of an angle.

[0064] This configuration improves the structural integrity of the slender, flat body. The bevel prevents the formation of sharp angles, which could weaken the structure by creating stress points or pose a risk of damaging electrical insulation components.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element can be formed as a single piece. In other words, the electrical insulating element can be designed as a single piece without assembling multiple components. This embodiment provides enhanced structural integrity and eliminates potential joints or weak points. This embodiment allows for a reduction in the risk of misalignment or movement of the electrical insulating element. The resulting electrical insulating element is more robust.

[0066] Electrically insulating elements can be made of electrically insulating materials, particularly polyamide 66 (PA66) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0067] According to one embodiment, an electrical insulating element can be overmolded onto an elongated, flat body.

[0068] Connector pins can be obtained through a manufacturing method that molds electrical insulating material onto an elongated, flat body. This manufacturing method differs from so-called "press-fit" assembly methods, such as interlocking, particularly forced interlocking or interlocking by pressing.

[0069] Overmolding provides a strong attachment between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body without requiring additional fasteners and / or assembling the elements together. Overmolding allows for complete coverage of critical portions of the elongated flat body, particularly for safety compliance, thus ensuring physical insulation suitable for preventing direct contact between the conductive elongated flat body and the pin. Overmolding also improves mechanical stability by preventing relative movement between the elongated flat body and the electrical insulating element.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element may be flush with each surface of the elongated flat body. Specifically, the electrical insulating element may be flush with each contact surface. The electrical insulating element may also be flush with each of the side edges of the elongated flat body that are not covered by the electrical insulating element.

[0071] This configuration allows the connector pin to maintain its overall shape, retaining a basic rectangular form. It achieves geometric continuity between the electrical insulation element and the rest of the contact surface and sidewalls, thereby minimizing roughness and facilitating the insertion and removal of the pin from the mating plug. Furthermore, this configuration reduces the risk of hooking or misalignment while optimizing mechanical stability without altering the external dimensions of the connector pin. It also ensures improved compatibility with existing mating connectors and plugs.

[0072] The object of the present invention is also achieved by a connector element. The connector element includes a housing and a connector pin according to a first aspect or a second aspect of the present invention, wherein: the housing includes a base having an opening, the connector pin being inserted into the opening of the housing base, particularly into a mating connector or plug in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the pin, such that the electrical insulating element of the connector pin extends to the housing base.

[0073] The fact that the connector pin inserts into the opening in the housing base and that the electrical insulation element extends into the housing base ensures continuity of insulation between the pin and the housing. This configuration reduces the risk of accidental contact with the conductive portion of the connector pin.

[0074] One or more features of the connector pin according to the first aspect or correspondingly according to the second aspect may be integrated or combined with the connector pin according to the second aspect or correspondingly according to the first aspect.

[0075] The accompanying drawings are incorporated in and form part of this specification to illustrate embodiments of the invention. These drawings, together with their description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. The sole purpose of the drawings is to illustrate preferred and alternative examples of ways in which the invention can be embodied and used, and they should not be construed as limiting the invention to the only embodiments shown and described.

[0076] Therefore, the examples and variations described below can be considered individually or in any combination. Attached Figure Description

[0077] Other features and advantages will become apparent from the following more precise description of various embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals denote similar elements, wherein:

[0078] Figure 1 This refers to a connector pin according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 2 express Figure 1 An exploded view of the connector pin shown.

[0080] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 An enlarged view of the front edge of the slender, flat body.

[0081] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 An enlarged view of the side edge of the slender, flat body.

[0082] Figure 5 express Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the connector pin at the front edge.

[0083] Figure 6 express Figure 1 The cross-section of the first and second protrusions of the connector pin.

[0084] Figure 7 express Figure 1 The cross-section of the third protrusion of the connector pin.

[0085] Figure 8 Indicates including, for example Figure 1 The connector element shown is a connector pin. Detailed Implementation

[0086] Figure 1This refers to connector pin 10 according to one embodiment. Connector pin 10 extends in directions indicated by the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which together define a Cartesian coordinate system (X, Y, Z).

[0087] The connector pin 10 includes an elongated, flat body 12. The elongated, flat body 12 extends along an insertion direction 1 parallel to the Z-axis. The connector pin 10 is configured to connect to a mating plug (not shown) in the insertion direction 1. The elongated body 12 is conductive. The elongated, flat body 12 is metallic. In particular, the elongated, flat body 12 is made of a copper alloy.

[0088] The connector pin 10 also includes an electrical insulating element 14. The electrical insulating element 14 partially covers the elongated flat body 12, particularly to meet IPXXB and / or IPXXB+ standards, provided that the elongated flat body 12 is protected from contact with human fingers. The electrical insulating element 14 may be made of an electrical insulating material, particularly polyamide 66 (PA66) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0089] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The structure of the elongated, flat body 12 and the conductive element 14 is further described. Figure 2 An exploded view of connector pin 10 is shown. Figure 3 An enlarged view of the front edge of the elongated, flat body 12 is shown. Figure 4 An enlarged view of the side edge of the elongated body 12 is shown. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The cross-section of the connector pin in a plane perpendicular to the insertion direction 1 is shown.

[0090] refer to Figure 2 The elongated, flat body 12 includes two contact surfaces 16 and 18, which are flat and opposite each other along the X-axis with a thickness of 3. Due to the orientation of the connector pin 10 in the figure, only the contact surface 16 is visible in the figure.

[0091] Along the insertion direction 1, each contact surface 16, 18 sequentially includes a first portion 20, a second portion 22, and a third portion 24. The first portion 20 is adapted to be attached to the connector body or nested in a socket (see [link]). Figure 8 The third part 24 extends to the free end of the elongated, flat body 12. Each part 20, 22, 24 has the same thickness defined along the X-axis, namely thickness 3.

[0092] Each part 20, 22, 24 has a length defined along the insertion direction 1 (in other words, along the Z-axis). The length of the first part 20 is equal to or greater than the length of the third part 24, particularly between 1 and 1.5 times the length of the third part 24. The length of the second part 22 is less than the lengths of each of the first part 20 and the third part 24, particularly between 3 and 8 times smaller, and even more particularly between 4 and 5 times smaller.

[0093] like Figure 2 Note that the first part 20 has a larger cross-section 26 in the cross-sectional plane (XY) than the third part 24 has a larger cross-section 30 in the parallel cross-sectional plane (XY). The second part 22 has a smaller cross-section 28 in the cross-sectional plane (XY) than both cross-section 26 and cross-section 30.

[0094] The surface area difference between cross sections 26, 28, and 30 is due to the geometry of the different portions 20, 22, and 24. The second portion 22 is formed by a narrowing of the first portion 20, and the third portion 24 is wider than the second portion 22 but less wide than the first portion 20. Due to these dimensional differences, a first shoulder 32 is formed between the first portion 20 and the second portion 22 (see plane (XY)), and a second shoulder 34 is formed between the second portion 22 and the third portion 24 (see plane (XY)). The first shoulder 32 and the second shoulder 34 are spaced apart by the length of the second portion 22. This creates a rectangular notch 38 in the plane (YZ).

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector pin 10 is symmetrical, specifically by means of mirror symmetry with respect to the plane (XZ). Therefore, the elongated, flat body 12 includes two notches 38 arranged symmetrically with respect to each other. Thus, the current description of one notch 38 applies to the other notch.

[0096] In another embodiment, not shown, the connector pin may be provided with a single notch or at least three notches. The notches may be arranged at different heights relative to each other along the insertion direction 1.

[0097] In the first part 22, the two contact surfaces 16 and 18 are connected to each other via sidewalls 40 and 42. In the second part 24, the two contact surfaces 16 and 18 are connected to each other via support surfaces 36. In the third part 26, the two contact surfaces 16 and 18 are connected to each other via side edges 44 and 46.

[0098] The side edges 44, 46 of the third part 26 are connected by a front edge 48. The front edge 48 includes a flat base 50 perpendicular to the insertion direction 1. In other words, the front edge 48 extends in a plane (XY). The angle between the front edge 48 and each of the side edges 44, 46 is between 80° and 100°, and in particular, the angle is 90°.

[0099] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 extend from the base 50 of the front edge 48. In the plane of the flat base 50, the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 are different.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 are symmetrical, particularly symmetrical with respect to the mirror surface (plane (XZ)).

[0101] The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 each have a trapezoidal shape in the cross-sectional plane (XY) of the flat base 50 parallel to the front edge 52. This cross-sectional plane is formed by... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown.

[0102] The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 are arranged equidistantly from the contact surfaces 16 and 18 on the flat base 50. The first protrusion 52 is arranged at the same distance from the side edge 46 as the second protrusion 54 is at the same distance from the side edge 44.

[0103] Specifically, the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 have the shape of an isosceles trapezoid. Each isosceles trapezoid defines a short side 56 parallel to the long side 58 in the cross-sectional plane. The protrusions 52 and 54 are arranged such that each side 56 and 58 extends parallel to the thickness 3 of the elongated flat body 12. Each long side 58 is less than the thickness 3 of the elongated flat body 12. Logically, each short side 56 is also less than the thickness 3 of the elongated flat body 12.

[0104] The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 are arranged such that in the plane of the cross-section (see...) Figure 6 Each short side 56 is parallel to and faces each other. The long side 58 of the first protrusion 52 is oriented toward the side edge 46. The long side 58 of the second protrusion 54 faces the side edge 44.

[0105] In the illustrated embodiments, see in particular Figure 2 The first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 extend from the flat base 50 of the front edge 52 in the single block 62 to a free end 60 shared by the two protrusions 52, 54. Specifically, the free end 60 is formed by a flat surface (60) extending parallel to the flat base 50 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 and Figure 3Block 62 forms a main protrusion 62. Block 62 (in other words, the main protrusion 62) is provided with an opening 64. In particular, the opening 64 is a through opening 64. The through opening 64 extends in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 1 so as to pass through block 62 (in other words, the main protrusion 62) on either side. Block 62 (in other words, the main protrusion 62) is continuously formed by a connecting portion 66, which partially connects the first protrusion 52 and the second portion 54. The connecting portion 66 connects the corresponding short sides 56 of the trapezoidal shape of the protrusions 52, 54. The connecting portion 66 (e.g., a bridging member) allows the through opening 64 to be defined. The through opening 64 is formed between the flat base 50 of the front edge 48 and the connecting portion 66.

[0106] For each of the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54, the sidewalls 68 and 70 connect the short side 56 of the trapezoidal shape to the long side 58 (see...). Figure 6 These walls 68 and 70 may be inclined between the base 50 and the free end 60. Specifically, the side walls 68 and 70 may be inclined convergingly, i.e., they move toward each other from the base 50 toward the free end 60. In another variation, the walls 68 and 70 may converge in another direction, i.e., they approach each other from the free end 60 toward the base 50. In yet another variation, the side walls 68 and 70 may extend perpendicular to the base 50.

[0107] Therefore, the first protrusion 52 and the second protrusion 54 form a main protrusion 62 (defined by block 62) recessed relative to the contact surfaces 16, 18. The main protrusion 62 is thinner than the elongated flat body 12 of thickness 3, thus forming a narrowing along the insertion direction 1 relative to the flat base 50 of the front edge 52. This allows for the provision of a support surface for the electrical insulating element 14, particularly the interior of the flat base 50, the free end 60, the sidewalls 68, 70, and the opening 64.

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector pin 10 is provided with a third protrusion 72. The third protrusion 72 extends from each side edge 44, 46.

[0109] Since the connector pin 10 is symmetrical in the illustrated embodiment, the following description of the third protrusion 72 extending from the side edge 44 applies to the third protrusion 72 extending from the side edge 46.

[0110] like Figure 7 As shown, the side edge 44 forms a flat base, and specifically in the plane (XZ), the third protrusion 72 extends from this flat base in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 1, i.e., parallel to the Y-axis. In the cross-sectional view (XY) perpendicular to the insertion direction 1, and as shown... Figure 7 As shown, the third protrusion 72 has a trapezoidal cross-section. Specifically, the third protrusion 72 has an isosceles trapezoidal cross-section. The isosceles trapezoid... Figure 7The cross-sectional plane (XY) shown defines a short side 74 parallel to the long side 76. The short side 74 is flush with the side edge 44 (which is why it is...). Figure 7 (The reason is schematically shown in dashed lines). In other words, the third protrusion 72 extends from the side edge 44 of its short side 74 toward its long side 76. Therefore, the long side 76 forms the free end (76) of the third protrusion 72. The third protrusion 72 extends from the side edge 44 toward its free end 76, gradually widening. The third protrusion 72 has a swallowtail shape.

[0111] The length of the long side 76 is less than the thickness 3 of the slender, flat body 12. For example... Figure 7 As shown in the cross-sectional plane, the third protrusion 72 is positioned relative to the side edge 44 in a manner equidistant from the contact surfaces 16 and 18. This configuration allows a support surface for the electrical insulating element 14 to be maintained on the side edge 44.

[0112] like Figure 4 As shown, at the second portion 22, the third protrusion 72 joins the first shoulder 32 to the second shoulder 34 to form a notch 38. Therefore, the third protrusion 72 has a bridge-shaped connection structure 78 at the second portion 22.

[0113] At the second portion 22, as at the third portion 24, the third protrusion 72 is positioned relative to the side edge 44 at equal distances from the contact surfaces 16 and 18. Additionally, at the second portion 22, the third portion 24 protrudes from the support surface 36 to leave a portion of the support surface 36 on either side of the third protrusion 72. A portion of the first shoulder 32 and a portion of the second shoulder 34 also remain free to provide support for the electrical insulating element 14.

[0114] This arrangement allows for improved mechanical stability and structural integrity of the electrical insulation element 14.

[0115] like Figure 3 As shown, the third protrusion 72 of the side edge 44 is integrally connected to the second protrusion 54, particularly via an angle 80. The third protrusion 72 of the side edge 46 is integrally connected to the first protrusion 52, particularly via an angle 82.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, the first protrusion 52, the second protrusion 54, and the third protrusion 72 of each side edge 44, 46 thus form a continuous block of protrusions, which improves the mechanical stability of the elongated flat body 12 and therefore the connector pin 10.

[0117] Electrical insulating element 14 is overmolded onto an elongated flat body 12. Electrical insulating element 14 completely covers the flat base 50 at the front edge, the first protrusion 52, and the second protrusion 54. Electrical insulating element 14 completely covers the side edges 44, 46 of the third portion 24 and the third protrusion 72 at the third portion 24. Electrical insulating element 14 completely covers the support surface 36 of the second portion 22 and the third protrusion 72 on each side of the second portion 24, including the connecting structure 78. When electrical insulating element 14 is overmolded onto the elongated flat body 12, the first protrusion 52, the second protrusion 54, and the third protrusion 72 are not visible, as... Figure 1 The connector pin 10 is shown.

[0118] Electrical insulating element 14 does not cover contact surfaces 16 and 18. Electrical insulating element 14 does not even partially cover the first portion 20.

[0119] The electrical insulating element 14 has an approximate "U" shape. The front portion 100 has an outer wall 102 that converges toward the insertion direction 1. This facilitates the insertion of the connector pin 10 into the mating plug (not shown).

[0120] The side edges 104 and 106 of the electrical insulating element 14 are connected to the front part 100 via bevels 108 and 110, respectively. Bevels 108 and 110 also facilitate insertion into the mating plug.

[0121] In the plane (YZ), particularly in the plane of each contact surface 16, 18, the side edges 104, 106 of the electrical insulating element 14 are flush with the contact surfaces 16, 18, respectively. Figure 1 It is shown that the surfaces of each side edge 104, 106 are in the same plane as the contact surface 16. Although the other side of the pin 10 is... Figure 1 It is not visible in the middle, but the other surface of each side edge 104, 106 is in the same plane as the contact surface 18.

[0122] In the plane (XZ), particularly in the plane of each sidewall 40, 42, the side edges 104, 106 of the electrical insulating element 14 are flush with the sidewalls 40, 42 of the first part 20. Figure 1 The surface of the side edge 104 is shown to be in the same plane as the side wall 40. Although the other side of the pin 10 is... Figure 1 It is not visible in the center, but the surface of the side edge 106 is in the same plane as the side wall 42.

[0123] Therefore, the cross-section of connector pin 10 at the second part 22 and the third part 24 is rectangular (see, for example, see...). Figure 7The connector pin 10 is molded onto portions 22 and 24, and maintains the same dimensions as the cross-section of the first portion 20. In other words, overmolding the electrical insulating element 14 onto portions 22 and 24 does not change the dimensions of the connector pin 10 relative to the first portion 20. The connector pin 10 is generally rectangular in shape.

[0124] The electrical insulating element 14 is held in the insertion direction 1 and in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 1 by adhering to a support surface, which is specifically formed by a flat base 50, a free end 60, side edges 42 and 44, a first shoulder 32, a second shoulder 34, and a support surface 36. Furthermore, the electrical insulating element 14 is stabilized by filling the opening 64 and the recess 38 with electrical insulating material.

[0125] Figure 8 Connector element 200 is shown in part. Connector element 200 includes housing 202. Figure 8 The housing 202 includes two connector pin sockets 204. The number of sockets 204 is not limited. Each socket 204 includes a base 206. The base 206 is surrounded by a protective collar 208, which extends perpendicularly from the base 206 in the insertion direction 1. In particular, the base 206 is surrounded by a protective collar 208 in the form of the letter "U". The base 206 includes an opening 210 adapted to receive a connector pin 10. Figure 8 In this configuration, connector pin 10 is inserted into opening 210 in base 206 of housing 202. The connector pin 10 is inserted such that its electrical insulating element 14 extends into base 206 of housing 202. In other words, the first portion 20 of flat, elongated body 12 is inserted into opening 210, thus... Figure 8 The first portion is not visible. The second portion 22 and the third portion 24 protrude from the opening 210. Thus, the electrical insulating element 14 is advantageously arranged on the portions 22, 24 of the connector pin 10 that may come into contact with fingers.

[0126] List of reference numerals

[0127] 1: Insertion direction

[0128] 3: Thickness

[0129] 10: Connector pin

[0130] 12: Slender and flat body

[0131] 14: Electrical insulation components

[0132] 16: Contact Surface

[0133] 18: Contact Surface

[0134] 20: Part One

[0135] 22: Part Two

[0136] 24: Part Three

[0137] 26: Cross-section of the first part

[0138] 28: Cross-section of the second part

[0139] 30: Section of the third part

[0140] 32: First shoulder

[0141] 34: Second shoulder

[0142] 36: Support surface of the second part

[0143] 38: Notch

[0144] 40: Sidewalls of Part One

[0145] 42: Sidewalls of Part One

[0146] 44: Side edge of the third part

[0147] 46: Side edge of the third part

[0148] 48: Leading edge

[0149] 50: Flat base

[0150] 52: First protrusion

[0151] 54: Second protrusion

[0152] 56: The shorter side of an isosceles trapezoid

[0153] 58: The longer side of an isosceles trapezoid

[0154] 60: Free End

[0155] 62: Main protrusion, block

[0156] 64: Opening

[0157] 66: Connection part

[0158] 68: Sidewall

[0159] 70: Sidewall

[0160] 72: Third protrusion

[0161] 74: The shorter side of an isosceles trapezoid

[0162] 76: The longer side of an isosceles trapezoid

[0163] 78: Connection Structure

[0164] 80: Angled

[0165] 82: Oblique angle

[0166] 100: The front part of an electrical insulating element

[0167] 102: Outer wall

[0168] 104: Side edge

[0169] 106: Side edge

[0170] 108: Oblique angle

[0171] 110: Oblique angle

[0172] 200: Connector Component

[0173] 202: Shell

[0174] 204: Socket

[0175] 206: Base

[0176] 208: Protective collar

[0177] 210: Opening

Claims

1. A connector pin (10) comprising an elongated, flat body (12) along the insertion direction (1) of the connector pin, The slender, flat body (12) is conductive. The slender, flat body (12) includes two contact surfaces (16, 18) facing each other. The contact surfaces (16, 18) are connected to each other along the insertion direction via their side edges (36, 40, 42, 44, 46), respectively. The front edge of the slender, flat body (12) connects to the side edges (36, 40, 42, 44, 46). The leading edge (48) includes a flat base (50) perpendicular to the insertion direction (1). The main protrusion (62) extends along the insertion direction (1) from the flat base (50) of the anterior edge (48), and The main protrusion (62) includes at least one through opening (64), The connector pin (10) also includes an electrical insulation element (14). The electrical insulating element (14) covers the front edge (48) and the main protrusion (62) to fill the through opening (64), and Electrical insulation element (14) at least partially covers the side edges (36, 40, 42).

2. The connector pin (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The main protrusion (62) has walls (68, 70) that extend obliquely from the flat base (50) of the front edge (48) along the insertion direction (1).

3. The connector pin (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The electrical insulating element (14) is integrally formed.

4. The connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The electrical insulating element (14) is overmolded onto the elongated flat body (12).

5. The connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The maximum thickness of the main protrusion (62) is strictly less than the maximum thickness between the two contact surfaces (16, 18), and the thickness is defined along the direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (1).

6. The connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The electrical insulating element (14) is flush with each surface (16, 18, 40, 42) of the elongated flat body (12), particularly with each contact surface (16, 18).

7. The connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The main protrusion (62) has at least one trapezoidal cross section in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base (50) parallel to the front edge (48), and in particular, at least one isosceles trapezoidal cross section in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base (50) parallel to the front edge (48).

8. The connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The main protrusion (62) is formed by a first protrusion (52) and a second protrusion (54), which are partially connected to each other by a connecting portion (66) to define the through opening (64).

9. The connector pin (10) according to claim 8, wherein, The first protrusion (52) or the second protrusion (54) or each of the two protrusions (52, 54) has a trapezoidal shape in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base (50) parallel to the front edge (48).

10. The connector pin (10) according to claim 9, wherein, The trapezoidal shape of each protrusion (52, 54) is defined by an isosceles trapezoid in the cross-sectional plane of the flat base (50) parallel to the front edge (48). The isosceles trapezoid defines a shorter side (56) parallel to the longer side (58) in the plane of the cross section, and The first protrusion (52) and the second protrusion (54) are arranged such that each short side (56) is parallel to each other and faces each other in the cross-sectional plane.

11. The connector pin (10) according to any of the preceding claims includes at least one third protrusion (72) extending at least partially from one of the side edges (36, 40, 42), the third protrusion (72) including a through opening (38), and the electrical insulating element (14) at least partially covering the third protrusion (72) to fill the through opening (38).

12. The connector pin (10) according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one third protrusion (72) has a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction (1).

13. The connector pin (10) according to at least claims 8 and 12, wherein, The first protrusion (52) and the second protrusion (54) are integrally connected to at least one third protrusion (72), particularly by means of an oblique angle.

14. The connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The through openings (38, 64) define a rectangular cross-section in a plane parallel to the contact surfaces (16, 18).

15. A connector element (200) comprising a housing (202) and a connector pin (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The housing (202) includes a base (206) having an opening (210). The connector pin (10) is inserted into the opening (210) of the base (206) of the housing (202) such that the electrical insulating element (14) of the connector pin (10) extends to the base (206) of the housing (202).

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