Connector terminal, terminal assembly, and connector

Abstract

The application discloses a connector terminal, a terminal assembly and a connector. The connector terminal comprises a terminal module for mating with a counter terminal and comprising a terminal plate, and a connecting plate for electrically connecting to a cable and having a front end fixed to a rear end of the terminal plate. The front end of the connecting plate can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate before being fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate, so that the connector terminal with different mating angles can be manufactured by using the same set of terminal components. Therefore, the application does not need to develop multiple sets of different terminal components, reduces manufacturing cost and improves market competitiveness of products.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector terminal, including a terminal assembly of the connector terminal and a connector including the connector terminal or the terminal assembly. Background Technology

[0002] In the current technology landscape, the rapid development of the new energy vehicle industry has brought greater challenges to the high-voltage connector field. This field not only requires connector terminals to have stronger current-carrying capacity but also to accommodate more diverse mating angle requirements. Currently, conventional connector terminals on the market are designed based on a fixed insertion angle. Therefore, in the existing technology, to meet customers' multi-angle mating needs, multiple sets of different terminal components need to be developed and designed, each set used to manufacture connector terminals with a fixed mating angle, resulting in very high manufacturing costs. In particular, when the shipment volume of connector terminals with a certain mating angle is small, manufacturers will incur losses. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to solve at least one aspect of the aforementioned problems and defects existing in the prior art.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a connector terminal is provided. The connector terminal includes: a terminal module for mating with mating terminals and including a terminal plate; and a connecting plate for electrical connection to a cable, the front end of which is fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate. The front end of the connecting plate can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate before being fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate, thereby enabling the manufacture of connector terminals with different mating angles using the same set of terminal components.

[0005] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front end of the connecting plate is adapted to rotatably engage with the rear end of the terminal plate, such that the connecting plate can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate before being fixed to the terminal plate.

[0006] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first step is formed on the top of the rear end of the terminal plate. The first step has a flat first support surface and a first arcuate surface. The first arcuate surface is located between the first support surface and the top surface of the terminal plate and arches forward. The front end of the connecting plate is supported on the first support surface of the terminal plate and the connecting plate has an arcuate front end surface that mates with the first arcuate surface of the terminal plate, such that the connecting plate can rotate relative to the terminal plate about the center of the first arcuate surface.

[0007] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a second step is formed on the bottom of the front end of the connecting plate. The second step has a flat second support surface and a second arcuate surface. The second arcuate surface is located between the second support surface and the bottom surface of the connecting plate and arches backward. The second support surface of the connecting plate abuts against the first support surface of the terminal plate, and the terminal plate has an arcuate rear end face that arches backward. The arcuate rear end face of the terminal plate faces the second arcuate surface of the connecting plate.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the radius of the outline of the arcuate rear end face of the terminal plate is equal to the radius of the outline of the first arcuate surface of the terminal plate, and the central angle of the outline of the arcuate rear end face of the terminal plate is equal to the central angle of the outline of the first arcuate surface of the terminal plate. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the central angle of the outline of the arcuate rear end face of the terminal plate may not be equal to the central angle of the outline of the first arcuate surface of the terminal plate.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the two ends of the arcuate rear end face of the terminal plate are respectively adjacent to the two ends of the first arcuate surface of the terminal plate, and the central angle between the arcuate rear end face of the terminal plate and the first arcuate surface is not greater than 180 degrees.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second support surface of the connecting plate is welded to the first support surface of the terminal plate to weld the connecting plate and the terminal plate together. For example, the second support surface of the connecting plate and the first support surface of the terminal plate can be joined together by ultrasonic welding or laser welding. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the connecting plate and the terminal plate can also be riveted, crimped, or connected together by threaded fasteners.

[0011] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the connecting plate is welded to the terminal board, the top and bottom surfaces of the connecting plate are respectively flush with the top and bottom surfaces of the terminal board. However, the present invention is not limited thereto; when the connecting plate is welded to the terminal board, the top surface of the connecting plate may not be flush with the top surface of the terminal board, or the bottom surface of the connecting plate may not be flush with the bottom surface of the terminal board.

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, through holes are formed on the front end of the connecting plate and the rear end of the terminal plate, respectively. The connector terminal further includes a bolt and a nut, the bolt passing through the through hole and being threadedly connected to the nut to fasten the front end of the connecting plate and the rear end of the terminal plate together. The connecting plate can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate around the bolt before being fastened to the terminal plate.

[0013] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first step is formed on the top of the rear end of the terminal plate, the first step having a flat first support surface and a first arcuate surface, the first arcuate surface being located between the first support surface and the top surface of the terminal plate; a first gear portion is formed on the first arcuate surface, the front end of the connecting plate is supported on the first support surface of the terminal plate and a second gear portion that meshes with the first gear portion is formed on the front end surface of the connecting plate, such that the connecting plate can rotate relative to the terminal plate.

[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, no steps are formed on the connecting plate and the terminal plate, so that the connecting plate and the terminal plate have a uniform thickness; the front end of the connecting plate abuts against the top or bottom surface of the rear end of the terminal plate and is fixed to the top or bottom surface of the rear end of the terminal plate.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front end of the connecting plate and the rear end of the terminal plate are riveted, welded or crimped together.

[0016] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal module further includes: a housing component fixed to the front end of the terminal plate and including a top plate located above the top surface of the terminal plate; and an elastic member mounted on the top surface of the front end of the terminal plate and facing the top plate of the housing component, the elastic member being used for electrical contact with a mating terminal inserted between the elastic member and the top plate of the housing component to achieve an electrical connection between the connector terminal and the mating terminal.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the shell component further includes: a side plate, the upper side of which is connected to the side of the top plate; and a lower edge plate, which is connected to the lower side of the side plate and bent inward relative to the side plate, the lower edge plate of the shell component being fixed to the top or bottom surface of the edge portion of the front end of the terminal plate.

[0018] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing component has a front port that allows the mating terminal to be inserted, the opening direction of the front port having a predetermined angle with the longitudinal direction of the terminal plate, such that the insertion direction of the mating terminal into the connector terminal has a predetermined angle with the longitudinal direction of the terminal plate.

[0019] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the housing component has a front port that allows the mating terminal to be inserted, the opening direction of the front port being the same as the longitudinal direction of the terminal plate, such that the mating terminal can be inserted into the connector terminal along the longitudinal direction of the terminal plate.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lower edge plate of the shell component is riveted, crimped or welded to the top or bottom surface of the edge portion of the terminal plate.

[0021] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of first riveting holes are formed on the lower edge plate of the housing component, and a plurality of first riveting posts are formed on the terminal plate. The plurality of first riveting posts are respectively riveted into the plurality of first riveting holes to rivet the lower edge plate to the terminal plate.

[0022] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the housing component further includes a locking spring formed on the top plate, the locking spring being adapted to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the connector terminals into the housing of the connector.

[0023] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking spring is in the form of an inclined, cantilevered shape with an arcuate end face, the arcuate end face of which is adapted to abut against the housing of the connector to prevent the connector terminals from being pulled out of the housing of the connector. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the locking spring may also have other suitable end face shapes, such as a flat end face.

[0024] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the shell component is a one-piece stamped part.

[0025] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elastic member includes: two strip-shaped portions extending along a first direction and spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and a plurality of elastic arms connected between the two strip-shaped portions and arranged in a row in the first direction, the second direction being parallel to the insertion direction of the mating terminal into the connector terminal, the plurality of elastic arms being used for simultaneous electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal.

[0026] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the housing component has a front port that allows mating terminals to be inserted, a strip portion of the elastic member near the front port is fixed to the top surface of the terminal plate, and another strip portion of the elastic member is slidably supported on the top surface of the terminal plate.

[0027] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the strip portion of the elastic member is riveted, welded, or pressed onto the top surface of the terminal plate.

[0028] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of second riveting holes are formed on the strip portion of the elastic member, and a plurality of second riveting posts are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate. The plurality of second riveting posts are respectively riveted into the plurality of second riveting holes to rivet the strip portion to the terminal plate.

[0029] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of first support protrusions adjacent to one strip portion and a plurality of second support protrusions adjacent to the other strip portion are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate; the first support protrusions and the second support protrusions are used to support the inserted mating terminals to prevent the elastic arm of the elastic member from being excessively squeezed by the mating terminals.

[0030] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a support rib extending along the first direction is formed on the top surface of the terminal plate. The support rib is located below a plurality of elastic arms of the elastic member and is used to support the elastic arms to prevent the elastic arms from undergoing excessive deformation.

[0031] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element is a one-piece stamped part.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, a terminal assembly is provided. The terminal assembly includes: the aforementioned connector terminal; and a cable, one end of which is soldered to the top or bottom surface of the connection plate of the connector terminal.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cable is soldered to the connecting plate before the connecting plate is fixed to the terminal plate.

[0034] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cable is soldered to the connecting plate after the connecting plate is fixed to the terminal plate.

[0035] According to another aspect of the present invention, a connector is provided. The connector includes: a housing; and the aforementioned connector terminals or terminal assemblies. The connector terminals are inserted into the housing.

[0036] In the foregoing exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the connecting plate can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate before being fixed to the terminal plate, thereby enabling the manufacture of connector terminals with different mating angles using the same set of terminal components. Therefore, the present invention eliminates the need to develop multiple sets of different terminal components, reducing manufacturing costs and enhancing the market competitiveness of the product.

[0037] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, and will help to provide a comprehensive understanding of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 A perspective view of a connector terminal as seen from the front, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 A perspective view of a connector terminal as seen from the rear, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 An exploded view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown from the front.

[0041] Figure 4 An exploded view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the rear.

[0042] Figure 5 This diagram shows an exploded view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the bottom.

[0043] Figure 6 An exploded schematic diagram showing the terminal plate and elastic element of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 7 Showing a top view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 Showing a top view of a terminal assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 9 Showing a top view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 Showing a top view of a terminal assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 11 Showing a top view of a connector terminal according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 12 Showing a top view of a terminal assembly according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 13 A perspective view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0051] Figure 14A perspective view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 15 An exploded view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below through embodiments and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In this specification, the same or similar reference numerals indicate the same or similar components. The following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings is intended to explain the overall inventive concept of the present invention and should not be construed as a limitation thereof.

[0054] Furthermore, in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth for ease of explanation to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are illustrated to simplify the figures.

[0055] According to a general technical concept of the present invention, a connector terminal is provided. The connector terminal includes: a terminal module for mating with mating terminals and including a terminal plate; and a connecting plate for electrical connection to a cable, the front end of which is fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate. The front end of the connecting plate can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate before being fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate, thereby enabling the manufacture of connector terminals with different mating angles using the same set of terminal components.

[0056] According to another general technical concept of the present invention, a terminal assembly is provided. The terminal assembly includes: the aforementioned connector terminal; and a cable, one end of which is soldered to the top or bottom surface of the connecting plate of the connector terminal.

[0057] According to another general technical concept of the present invention, a connector is provided. The connector includes: a housing; and the aforementioned connector terminals or terminal assemblies. The connector terminals are inserted into the housing.

[0058] Figure 1 A perspective view of a connector terminal as seen from the front, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A perspective view of a connector terminal as seen from the rear, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 An exploded view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown from the front.

[0059] Figure 4An exploded view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the rear. Figure 5 This diagram shows an exploded view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the bottom. Figure 6 An exploded view showing a terminal plate 1 and an elastic member 3 of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 Showing a top view of a connector terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 Showing a top view of a terminal assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 Showing a top view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 Showing a top view of a terminal assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 Showing a top view of a connector terminal according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 A top view of a terminal assembly according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a connector terminal is disclosed. The connector terminal includes a terminal module 100 and a connecting plate 2. The terminal module 100 is for mating with mating terminals (not shown) and includes the terminal plate 1. The connecting plate 2 is for electrical connection to a cable 5, and its front end is fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate 1.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front end of the connecting plate 2 can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate 1 before being fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate 1, thereby enabling the manufacture of connector terminals with different mating angles using the same set of terminal components. For example, it is possible to manufacture connector terminals with different mating angles using the same set of terminal components. Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 11 The three connector terminals with different mating angles are shown. In this application, the mating angle refers to the angle between the insertion direction of the mating terminal into the terminal module 100 and the axial direction of the cable 5 electrically connected to the connecting plate 2.

[0062] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front end of the connecting plate 2 is adapted to rotatably engage with the rear end of the terminal plate 1, so that the connecting plate 2 can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate 1 before being fixed to the terminal plate 1.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 12As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a first step 10 is formed on the top of the rear end of the terminal plate 1. The first step 10 has a flat first support surface 10a and a first arcuate surface 10b. The first arcuate surface 10b is located between the first support surface 10a and the top surface of the terminal plate 1 and arches forward. The front end of the connecting plate 2 is supported on the first support surface 10a of the terminal plate 1, and the connecting plate 2 has an arcuate front end surface 2a that mates with the first arcuate surface 10b of the terminal plate 1, allowing the connecting plate 2 to rotate relative to the terminal plate 1 about the center of the first arcuate surface 10b.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a second step 20 is formed on the bottom of the front end of the connecting plate 2. The second step 20 has a flat second support surface 20a and a second arcuate surface 20b. The second arcuate surface 20b is located between the second support surface 20a and the bottom surface of the connecting plate 2 and arches backward. The second support surface 20a of the connecting plate 2 abuts against the first support surface 10a of the terminal plate 1, and the terminal plate 1 has an arcuate rear end surface 1a that arches backward, with the arcuate rear end surface 1a facing the second arcuate surface 20b of the connecting plate 2.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the radius of the outline of the arcuate rear end face 1a of the terminal plate 1 is equal to the radius of the outline of the first arcuate face 10b of the terminal plate 1, and the central angle of the outline of the arcuate rear end face 1a of the terminal plate 1 is equal to the central angle of the outline of the first arcuate face 10b of the terminal plate 1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the central angle of the outline of the arcuate rear end face 1a of the terminal plate 1 may not be equal to the central angle of the outline of the first arcuate face 10b of the terminal plate 1.

[0066] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the two ends of the arc-shaped rear end face 1a of the terminal plate 1 are adjacent to the two ends of the first arc-shaped surface 10b of the terminal plate 1, and the central angle between the arc-shaped rear end face 1a and the first arc-shaped surface 10b of the terminal plate 1 is not greater than 180 degrees.

[0067] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the second support surface 20a of the connecting plate 2 is welded to the first support surface 10a of the terminal plate 1 to weld the connecting plate 2 and the terminal plate 1 together. For example, the second support surface 20a of the connecting plate 2 and the first support surface 10a of the terminal plate 1 can be welded together by ultrasonic welding or laser welding. However, the present invention is not limited to this; the connecting plate 2 and the terminal plate 1 can also be riveted, crimped, or connected together by threaded fasteners, in which case the second support surface 20a of the connecting plate 2 and the first support surface 10a of the terminal plate 1 are in close electrical contact.

[0068] like Figures 1 to 12As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the connecting plate 2 is soldered to the terminal plate 1, the top and bottom surfaces of the connecting plate 2 are flush with the top and bottom surfaces of the terminal plate 1, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to this; when the connecting plate 2 is soldered to the terminal plate 1, the top surface of the connecting plate 2 may not be flush with the top surface of the terminal plate 1, or the bottom surface of the connecting plate 2 may not be flush with the bottom surface of the terminal plate 1.

[0069] However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. For example, in another exemplary embodiment of the invention, through holes (not shown) are formed on the front end of the connecting plate 2 and the rear end of the terminal plate 1, respectively. The connector terminal also includes a bolt (not shown) and a nut (not shown). The bolt passes through the through holes into the connecting plate 2 and the terminal plate 1 and is threadedly connected to the nut to fasten the front end of the connecting plate 2 and the rear end of the terminal plate 1 together. In this embodiment, the connecting plate 2 can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate 1 about the bolt before being fastened to the terminal plate 1.

[0070] Figure 13 A perspective view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] like Figure 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, no steps are formed on the connecting plate 2 and the terminal plate 1, resulting in a uniform thickness for both. The front end of the connecting plate 2 rests against the top or bottom surface of the rear end of the terminal plate 1 and is fixed to the top or bottom surface of the rear end of the terminal plate 1.

[0072] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front end of the connecting plate 2 and the rear end of the terminal plate 1 can be riveted, welded or crimped together.

[0073] Figure 14 A perspective view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 15 An exploded view of a connector terminal according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0074] Figure 14 and Figure 15 The connector terminals shown are Figures 1 to 12 The only difference between the connector terminals shown is the rotating fit structure. Figure 14 and Figure 15 Other technical features of the connector terminals shown are similar to Figures 1 to 12 The connector terminals shown are basically the same and can be referred to. Figures 1 to 12 The connector terminals are shown.

[0075] like Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a first step 10 is formed on the top of the rear end of the terminal plate 1. The first step 10 has a flat first support surface 10a and a first arcuate surface 10b. The first arcuate surface 10b is located between the first support surface 10a and the top surface of the terminal plate 1. A first gear portion 10c is formed on the first arcuate surface 10b. The front end of the connecting plate 2 is supported on the first support surface 10a of the terminal plate 1, and a second gear portion 2c that meshes with the first gear portion 10c is formed on the front end surface of the connecting plate 2, so that the connecting plate 2 can rotate relative to the terminal plate 1.

[0076] Please note that the rotational connection between the terminal plate 1 and the connecting plate 2 of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. For example, a pivot or rivet can also be used as a rotational connection, so that the connecting plate 2 can rotate relative to the terminal plate 1 before being fixed to the terminal plate 1.

[0077] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal module 100 further includes a housing component 4 and an elastic member 3. The housing component 4 is fixed to the front end of the terminal plate 1 and includes a top plate 41 located above the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The elastic member 3 is mounted on the top surface of the front end of the terminal plate 1 and faces the top plate 41 of the housing component 4. The elastic member 3 is used for electrical contact with mating terminals inserted between the elastic member 3 and the top plate 41 of the housing component 4 to achieve electrical connection between the connector terminals and the mating terminals.

[0078] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing component 4 further includes a side plate 42 and a lower edge plate 43. The upper side edge of the side plate 42 is connected to the side edge of the top plate 41. The lower edge plate 43 is connected to the lower side edge of the side plate 42 and is bent inward relative to the side plate 42. The lower edge plate 43 of the housing component 4 is fixed to the top or bottom surface of the edge of the front end of the terminal plate 1.

[0079] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing component 4 has a front port 101 that allows mating terminals to be inserted. The opening direction of the front port 101 is at a predetermined angle to the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1, such that the insertion direction of the mating terminal into the connector terminal is at a predetermined angle to the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1.

[0080] However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. For example, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the opening direction of the front port 101 of the housing component 4 may be the same as the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1, so that the mating terminal can be inserted into the connector terminal along the longitudinal direction Y of the terminal plate 1.

[0081] like Figures 1 to 13As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lower edge plate 43 of the shell component 4 can be riveted, crimped or welded to the top or bottom surface of the edge of the terminal plate 1.

[0082] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of first riveting holes 43a are formed on the lower edge plate 43 of the housing component 4, and a plurality of first riveting posts 13a are formed on the terminal plate 1. The plurality of first riveting posts 13a are respectively riveted into the plurality of first riveting holes 43a to rivet the lower edge plate 43 onto the terminal plate 1.

[0083] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing component 4 further includes a locking spring 44 formed on the top plate 41, the locking spring 44 being adapted to engage with the housing of the connector (not shown) to lock the connector terminals into the housing of the connector.

[0084] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking spring 44 is an inclined, cantilevered shape with an arcuate end face 44a. The arcuate end face 44a of the locking spring 44 is adapted to abut against the connector housing to prevent the connector terminals from being pulled out of the connector housing. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the locking spring 44 may also have other suitable end face shapes, such as a flat end face.

[0085] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the shell component 4 is a one-piece stamped part.

[0086] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic member 3 includes two strip-shaped portions 31 and a plurality of elastic arms 32. The two strip-shaped portions 31 extend along a first direction D1 and are spaced apart from each other in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. The plurality of elastic arms 32 are connected between the two strip-shaped portions 31 and arranged in a row in the first direction D1. The second direction D2 is parallel to the insertion direction of the mating terminals into the connector terminals, and the plurality of elastic arms 32 are used to make simultaneous electrical contact with the inserted mating terminals.

[0087] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing component 4 has a front port 101 that allows mating terminals to be inserted, a strip 31 of the elastic member 3 near the front port 101 is fixed to the top surface of the terminal plate 1, and another strip 31 of the elastic member 3 is slidably supported on the top surface of the terminal plate 1.

[0088] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a strip 31 of the elastic member 3 can be riveted, welded or pressed onto the top surface of the terminal plate 1.

[0089] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of second riveting holes 31a are formed on a strip-shaped portion 31 of the elastic member 3, and a plurality of second riveting posts 131a are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The plurality of second riveting posts 131a are respectively riveted into the plurality of second riveting holes 31a to rivet a strip-shaped portion 31 onto the terminal plate 1.

[0090] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of first support protrusions 11 adjacent to one strip-shaped portion 31 and a plurality of second support protrusions 12 adjacent to another strip-shaped portion 31 are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The first support protrusions 11 and the second support protrusions 12 are used to support the inserted mating terminals to prevent the elastic arm 32 of the elastic member 3 from being excessively squeezed by the mating terminals.

[0091] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a support rib 132 extending along the first direction D1 is formed on the top surface of the terminal plate 1. The support rib 132 is located below the plurality of elastic arms 32 of the elastic member 3 and is used to support the elastic arms 32 to prevent the elastic arms 32 from being excessively deformed.

[0092] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic element 3 is a one-piece stamped part.

[0093] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a terminal assembly is also disclosed. The terminal assembly includes a connector terminal and a cable 5. One end of the cable 5 is soldered to the top or bottom surface of the connector terminal's connecting plate 2.

[0094] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, cable 5 is soldered to connecting plate 2 before connecting plate 2 is fixed to terminal plate 1. Cable 5 can be soldered to connecting plate 2 using an ultrasonic welding process. In this embodiment, since cable 5 is soldered to connecting plate 2 before connecting plate 2 is fixed to terminal plate 1, the elastic element 3 is not affected by the ultrasonic waves during the welding of cable 5.

[0095] However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. For example, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cable 5 can be welded to the connecting plate 2 after the connecting plate 2 is fixed to the terminal plate 1. In this case, if an ultrasonic welding process is used to weld the cable 5 to the connecting plate 2, the elastic element 3 will be affected by the ultrasonic waves and is prone to cracking. Therefore, in this case, it is not advisable to use an ultrasonic welding process to weld the cable 5 to the connecting plate 2.

[0096] like Figures 1 to 13As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a connector is also disclosed. The connector includes a housing and the aforementioned connector terminals or terminal assemblies. The connector terminals are inserted into the housing.

[0097] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described above are exemplary and can be improved upon. The structures described in the various embodiments can be freely combined without causing structural or principle conflicts, and these changes should fall within the protection scope of this invention.

[0098] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the embodiments disclosed in the drawings are intended to illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0099] While some embodiments of the general concept of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the general concept of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0100] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple elements. Furthermore, any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A connector terminal, characterized in that, include: Terminal module (100) for mating with mating terminals and including terminal block (1); and A connecting plate (2) is used for electrical connection to the cable (5), and its front end is fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate (1). The front end of the connecting plate (2) can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate (1) before being fixed to the rear end of the terminal plate (1), thereby enabling the manufacture of connector terminals with different mating angles using the same set of terminal components.

2. The connector terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: The front end of the connecting plate (2) is adapted to rotate with the rear end of the terminal plate (1), so that the connecting plate (2) can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate (1) before being fixed to the terminal plate (1).

3. The connector terminal according to claim 2, characterized in that: A first step (10) is formed on the top of the rear end of the terminal plate (1). The first step (10) has a flat first support surface (10a) and a first arcuate surface (10b). The first arcuate surface (10b) is located between the first support surface (10a) and the top surface of the terminal plate (1) and arches forward. The front end of the connecting plate (2) is supported on the first support surface (10a) of the terminal plate (1), and the connecting plate (2) has an arc-shaped front end surface (2a) that mates with the first arc-shaped surface (10b) of the terminal plate (1), so that the connecting plate (2) can rotate relative to the terminal plate (1) around the center of the first arc-shaped surface (10b).

4. The connector terminal according to claim 3, characterized in that: A second step (20) is formed on the bottom of the front end of the connecting plate (2). The second step (20) has a flat second support surface (20a) and a second arc-shaped surface (20b). The second arc-shaped surface (20b) is located between the second support surface (20a) and the bottom surface of the connecting plate (2) and arches backward. The second support surface (20a) of the connecting plate (2) is attached to the first support surface (10a) of the terminal plate (1), and the terminal plate (1) has a rearward arched arc-shaped rear end surface (1a), the arc-shaped rear end surface (1a) of the terminal plate (1) facing the second arc-shaped surface (20b) of the connecting plate (2).

5. The connector terminal according to claim 4, characterized in that: The radius of the outline of the arc-shaped rear end face (1a) of the terminal plate (1) is equal to the radius of the outline of the first arc-shaped surface (10b) of the terminal plate (1), and the central angle of the outline of the arc-shaped rear end face (1a) of the terminal plate (1) is equal to the central angle of the outline of the first arc-shaped surface (10b) of the terminal plate (1).

6. The connector terminal according to claim 5, characterized in that: The two ends of the arc-shaped rear end face (1a) of the terminal plate (1) are adjacent to the two ends of the first arc-shaped surface (10b) of the terminal plate (1), and the central angle between the arc-shaped rear end face (1a) and the first arc-shaped surface (10b) of the terminal plate (1) is not greater than 180 degrees.

7. The connector terminal according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second support surface (20a) of the connecting plate (2) is welded to the first support surface (10a) of the terminal plate (1) to weld the connecting plate (2) and the terminal plate (1) together.

8. The connector terminal according to claim 7, characterized in that: When the connecting plate (2) is welded to the terminal plate (1), the top and bottom surfaces of the connecting plate (2) are flush with the top and bottom surfaces of the terminal plate (1), respectively.

9. The connector terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: Through holes are formed on the front end of the connecting plate (2) and the rear end of the terminal plate (1), respectively. The connector terminal also includes a bolt and a nut. The bolt passes through the through hole and is threadedly connected to the nut to fasten the front end of the connecting plate (2) and the rear end of the terminal plate (1) together. The connecting plate (2) can be rotated to different angles relative to the terminal plate (1) around the bolt before being fastened to the terminal plate (1).

10. The connector terminal according to claim 2, characterized in that: A first step (10) is formed on the top of the rear end of the terminal plate (1). The first step (10) has a flat first support surface (10a) and a first arcuate surface (10b). The first arcuate surface (10b) is located between the first support surface (10a) and the top surface of the terminal plate (1). A first gear portion (10c) is formed on the first arc-shaped surface (10b), the front end of the connecting plate (2) is supported on the first support surface (10a) of the terminal plate (1), and a second gear portion (2c) that meshes with the first gear portion (10c) is formed on the front end surface of the connecting plate (2), so that the connecting plate (2) can rotate relative to the terminal plate (1).

11. The connector terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: No steps are formed on the connecting plate (2) and the terminal plate (1), so that the connecting plate (2) and the terminal plate (1) have a uniform thickness; The front end of the connecting plate (2) is attached to the top or bottom surface of the rear end of the terminal plate (1) and is fixed to the top or bottom surface of the rear end of the terminal plate (1).

12. The connector terminal according to claim 1 or 11, characterized in that: The front end of the connecting plate (2) and the rear end of the terminal plate (1) are riveted, welded or pressed together.

13. The connector terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: The terminal module (100) also includes: The housing component (4) is fixed to the front end of the terminal plate (1) and includes a top plate (41) located above the top surface of the terminal plate (1); and The elastic element (3) is mounted on the top surface of the front end of the terminal plate (1) and faces the top plate (41) of the shell component (4). The elastic element (3) is used to make electrical contact with the mating terminal inserted between the elastic element (3) and the top plate (41) of the shell component (4) to achieve an electrical connection between the connector terminal and the mating terminal.

14. The connector terminal according to claim 13, characterized in that: The shell component (4) also includes: Side plate (42), the upper side of which is connected to the side of the top plate (41); and The lower edge plate (43) is connected to the lower side edge of the side plate (42) and bends inward relative to the side plate (42). The lower edge plate (43) of the shell component (4) is fixed to the top or bottom surface of the edge of the front end of the terminal plate (1).

15. The connector terminal according to claim 14, characterized in that: The housing component (4) has a front port (101) that allows the mating terminal to be inserted. The opening direction of the front port (101) is at a predetermined angle to the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1), such that the insertion direction of the mating terminal into the connector terminal is at a predetermined angle to the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1).

16. The connector terminal according to claim 14, characterized in that: The housing component (4) has a front port (101) that allows the mating terminal to be inserted. The opening direction of the front port (101) is the same as the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1), so that the mating terminal can be inserted into the connector terminal along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the terminal plate (1).

17. The connector terminal according to claim 14, characterized in that: The lower edge plate (43) of the shell component (4) is riveted, crimped or welded to the top or bottom surface of the edge of the terminal plate (1).

18. The connector terminal according to claim 14, characterized in that: A plurality of first riveting holes (43a) are formed on the lower edge plate (43) of the housing component (4), and a plurality of first riveting posts (13a) are formed on the terminal plate (1). The plurality of first riveting posts (13a) are respectively riveted into the plurality of first riveting holes (43a) to rivet the lower edge plate (43) onto the terminal plate (1).

19. The connector terminal according to claim 13, characterized in that: The housing component (4) further includes a locking spring (44) formed on the top plate (41), the locking spring (44) being adapted to engage with the housing of the connector to lock the connector terminals into the housing of the connector.

20. The connector terminal according to claim 19, characterized in that: The locking spring (44) is an inclined cantilever with an arc-shaped end face (44a), which is adapted to abut against the housing of the connector to prevent the connector terminals from being pulled out of the housing of the connector.

21. The connector terminal according to any one of claims 13-20, characterized in that: The shell component (4) is a one-piece stamped part.

22. The connector terminal according to claim 13, characterized in that: The elastic element (3) includes: Two strip-shaped portions (31) extend along a first direction (D1) and are spaced apart from each other in a second direction (D2) perpendicular to the first direction (D1); and Multiple elastic arms (32) are connected between the two strip-shaped portions (31) and arranged in a row in the first direction (D1). The second direction (D2) is parallel to the insertion direction of the mating terminal into the connector terminal, and the plurality of elastic arms (32) are used to make simultaneous electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal.

23. The connector terminal according to claim 22, characterized in that: The housing component (4) has a front port (101) that allows mating terminals to be inserted. One strip (31) of the elastic member (3) near the front port (101) is fixed to the top surface of the terminal plate (1), and the other strip (31) of the elastic member (3) is slidably supported on the top surface of the terminal plate (1).

24. The connector terminal according to claim 23, characterized in that: The strip (31) of the elastic member (3) is riveted, welded or pressed to the top surface of the terminal plate (1).

25. The connector terminal according to claim 23, characterized in that: A plurality of second riveting holes (31a) are formed on one of the strip portions (31) of the elastic member (3), and a plurality of second riveting posts (131a) are formed on the top surface of the terminal plate (1). The plurality of second riveting posts (131a) are respectively riveted into the plurality of second riveting holes (31a) to rivet the one strip portion (31) onto the terminal plate (1).

26. The connector terminal according to claim 23, characterized in that: On the top surface of the terminal plate (1), a plurality of first support protrusions (11) adjacent to one strip (31) and a plurality of second support protrusions (12) adjacent to the other strip (31) are formed. The first support protrusion (11) and the second support protrusion (12) are used to support the inserted mating terminal to prevent the elastic arm (32) of the elastic member (3) from being excessively squeezed by the mating terminal.

27. The connector terminal according to claim 22, characterized in that: A support rib (132) extending along the first direction (D1) is formed on the top surface of the terminal plate (1). The support rib (132) is located below the plurality of elastic arms (32) of the elastic member (3) and is used to support the elastic arms (32) to prevent the elastic arms (32) from being excessively deformed.

28. The connector terminal according to any one of claims 22-27, characterized in that: The elastic element (3) is a one-piece stamped part.

29. A terminal assembly, characterized in that, include: Connector terminals as described in any one of claims 1-28; and The cable (5) has one end welded to the top or bottom surface of the connector terminal connecting plate (2).

30. The terminal assembly according to claim 29, characterized in that: The cable (5) is soldered to the connecting plate (2) before the connecting plate (2) is fixed to the terminal plate (1).

31. The terminal assembly according to claim 29, characterized in that: The cable (5) is soldered to the connecting plate (2) after the connecting plate (2) is fixed to the terminal plate (1).

32. A connector, characterized in that, include: case; and The connector terminal according to any one of claims 1-28 or the terminal assembly according to any one of claims 29-31, The connector terminals are inserted into the housing.

Images