Electrical connector with mating assurance verification

Abstract

An electrical connector (100) includes a housing (110) having a wall (112) extending between a terminating end (118) and a mating end (116) configured to mate with a mating electrical connector (200). The electrical connector includes contacts (150) held by the housing. Each contact extends between a terminating end (152) and a mating end (152) configured to mate with a mating contact (206) of the mating electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a latching element (142) configured to latchably engage with a mating latching element (242) of the mating electrical connector when the housing is fully mated to the mating electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a mating verification device (300) coupled to the housing, the mating verification device (300) having a wireless communication element (304) configured to transmit a verification signal indicating mating of the electrical connector with the mating electrical connector.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63 / 644,589, filed May 9, 2024, entitled “Electrical Connector with Coupling Assurance Verification”, and U.S. Application No. 63 / 607,583, filed December 8, 2023, entitled “Connector with Coupling Assurance Verification with RFID”, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This article mainly deals with electrical connectors. Background Technology

[0003] Communication systems include electrical connectors that mate to electrically connect various components of the system. For example, a headstock connector can be mounted to a device, such as a circuit board, for mating with a plug connector, which can terminate a wire harness or another circuit board. Electrical connectors typically include latches to hold the connectors together once mated. However, when improperly mated, the latches may disengage, allowing the connectors to unintentionally disengage over time. To avoid this, some electrical connectors include a connector position guarantee (CPA) device to ensure proper latching of the connector. The CPA device is typically mechanical and is mechanically actuated during assembly to provide visual and / or tactile feedback to the installer. However, the installer may not properly verify the actuation of the CPA device.

[0004] Some known electrical connectors use electrically activated connector verification systems, which use electrical signals passed through verification circuitry to verify a correct connection. For example, an electrical connector may include verification contacts in both the plug and headstock connectors; these contacts engage when the plug and headstock connectors mate, creating a verification circuit. However, the contacts may engage even if the latch is not fully engaged, leading to incorrect verification. Furthermore, such systems increase the overall cost of the communication system by requiring a redesign of the electrical connector to include additional contacts.

[0005] There is still a need for a cost-effective and reliable mating verification system for electrical connectors. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one embodiment, an electrical connector is provided, comprising a housing having a wall extending between a mating end and a terminating end. The mating end is configured to mate with a mating electrical connector. The electrical connector includes contacts held by the housing. Each contact extends between the mating end and the terminating end. The mating end of the contact is configured to mate with a mating contact of the mating electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a latching element configured to latchably engage with a mating latching element of the mating electrical connector when the housing is fully mated with the mating electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a mating verification device coupled to the housing. The mating verification device includes a wireless communication element configured to transmit a verification signal indicating mating between the electrical connector and the mating electrical connector. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a front perspective view of the head connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a side view of the head connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view of a plug connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 One of the plug contacts according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector in an uncooperative state.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector in a partially mated state.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector in a fully mated state.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a plug connector that partially mates with a headstock connector.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a plug connector fully mated to a head connector.

[0022] Figure 15 A wireless communication component according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the integration of [missing information] into the communication system. Figure 15 The wireless communication component shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. The communication system 10 includes a first electrical connector 100 and a second electrical connector 200 configured to mate with the first electrical connector 100. The communication system 10 may include a plurality of electrical connectors 100 and / or a plurality of electrical connectors 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of electrical connectors 200 are configured to mate with a single electrical connector 100. The electrical connector 200 is a mating electrical connector for the first electrical connector 100. Similarly, the first electrical connector 100 is considered to be a mating electrical connector for the second electrical connector 200.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical connector 100 is a head-mount connector, and may be referred to hereinafter as head-mount connector 100. Head-mount connector 100 is mounted to a component such as main circuit board 20. However, in alternative embodiments, the component may be a non-electrical component, such as a panel or wall of a device for holding head-mount connector 100. In an exemplary embodiment, head-mount connector 100 is a board-mount connector mounted to and electrically connected to main circuit board 20. In the illustrated embodiment, head-mount connector 100 is a right-angle connector having a mounting end oriented perpendicular to the mating end. In alternative embodiments, other orientations are possible, such as a straight through connector, or a vertical connector. In various other embodiments, head-mount connector 100 is a cable connector located at the end of one or more cables.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrical connector 200 is a plug connector and may be referred to hereinafter as plug connector 200. Plug connector 200 is configured to be inserted into a receptacle or socket of headstock connector 100. In an exemplary embodiment, plug connector 200 is a cable connector disposed at the end of one or more cables 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 202 extends from an end opposite to the mating end of plug connector 200. In various other embodiments, plug connector 200 may be a right-angle connector having a cable 202 extending perpendicular to the mating end. In various other embodiments, plug connector 200 may be a board-mount connector configured to be mounted to a circuit board.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication system 10 includes a mating verification system 300 that provides a verification signal to ensure the mating of electrical connectors 100 and 200. For example, the mating verification system 300 provides a verification signal to the communication system 10 when electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated. When electrical connectors 100 and 200 are not mated, the mating verification system 300 does not send a verification signal. Electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated when all contacts of electrical connectors 100 and 200 are mated and the latching components of electrical connectors 100 and 200 are latched. Before the latching components are latched, electrical connectors 100 and 200 are considered not mated even if the contacts of electrical connectors 100 and 200 are mated. Thus, the mating verification system 300 forms an electrical connector position assurance (CPA) device for the communication system 10. In various embodiments, connectors 100, 200 may include mechanical CPA devices 104, 204, such as sliding CPA devices, configured to be actuated after connectors 100, 200 have mated to ensure full mating. CPA devices 104, 204 are verification devices separate from the electronic mating verification system 300. In various embodiments, the mating verification system 300 may be integrated with CPA devices 104, 204, such as being activated when CPA devices 104, 204 are actuated, thereby forming primary and secondary CPA devices.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the verification system 300 includes a wireless communication component 302 configured to wirelessly transmit verification signals. In various embodiments, the wireless communication component 302 uses electromagnetic fields to transmit digital data. In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication component 302 may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) component that uses electromagnetic fields for wireless communication. For example, the wireless communication component 302 includes a passive RFID component configured to transmit digital data or signals when triggered by an electromagnetic interrogation pulse from a nearby RFID reader device. In alternative embodiments, the wireless communication component 302 may use other technologies. For example, the wireless communication component 302 may include a near field communication (NFC) component to allow short-range wireless communication that enables bidirectional communication between devices. The wireless communication component 302 may include a barcode or QR code that can be read by an optical scanner for tracking and identifying items. The wireless communication component 302 may use a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) component to enable devices to communicate over short distances. The wireless communication component 302 employs ultrasonic technology for proximity sensing and positioning. The wireless communication component 302 may use Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to track and monitor objects.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication component 302 is configured to send a verification signal only when the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully engaged. For example, the wireless communication component 302 is configured to send the verification signal only after the latching elements are latchably connected, thereby ensuring that the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully engaged and will remain engaged. In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication component 302 becomes discoverable only after the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully engaged, such that a verification signal is sent as verification of the full engagement of the electrical connectors 100 and 200. For example, a portion of the wireless communication component 302 may be disposed on both electrical connectors 100 and 200, which are electrically connected only when the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully engaged. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical connector 100 includes a first wireless communication element 304, and the second electrical connector 200 includes a second wireless communication element 306, the first wireless communication element 304 and the second wireless communication element 306 being configured to be electrically connected when the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are engaged. In various embodiments, the wireless communication component 302 may be integrated with the CPA devices 104, 204, for example, disposed on the CPA devices 104, 204 and movable with the CPA devices 104, 204, and configured to be activated when the CPA devices 104, 204 are actuated and / or connected.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a front perspective view of the head connector 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3This is a side view of a head connector 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, the head connector 100 includes a first wireless communication element 304. In various embodiments, the head connector 100 may include multiple wireless communication elements 304, for example for ensuring communication with multiple plug connectors 200 (such as...). Figure 1 The mating connection is shown in the figure.

[0031] The head connector 100 includes a head housing 110 that holds a plurality of head contacts 150. The head connector 100 includes a head latch 140 (shown in dashed lines) having a latching element 142 for latchably engaging a plug connector 200 to the head connector 100. The head connector 100 includes a wireless communication element 304.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the headstock housing 110 is made of a dielectric material. For example, the headstock housing 110 may be molded from a plastic material. The headstock housing 110 includes a plurality of walls 112 forming a cavity 114 for receiving the plug connector 200. The headstock housing 110 extends between a mating end 116 and a terminating end 118. The plug connector 200 is configured to engage with the mating end 116. The cavity 114 opens at the mating end 116 to receive the plug connector 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the terminating end 118 is configured to be mounted to a main circuit board 20 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown). In an alternative embodiment, termination 118 is configured to connect to one or more cables.

[0033] The headstock housing 110 includes a front portion 120 and a rear portion 122. The headstock housing 110 includes a top portion 124 and a bottom portion 126. The headstock housing 110 includes a side portion 128 between the top portion 124 and the bottom portion 126. In an exemplary embodiment, a mating end 116 is located at the front portion 120. In alternative embodiments, other locations are possible, such as the top portion 124. A cavity 114 opens at the front portion 120 to receive a plug connector 200. In the illustrated embodiment, a latch 140 is located at the top portion 124. For example, the latch 140 is positioned at the top portion 124 of the headstock housing 110 along the inner surface of a top wall. In alternative embodiments, other locations are possible. In an exemplary embodiment, a terminating end 118 is located at the bottom portion 126. In alternative embodiments, other locations are possible, such as the rear portion 122. In an exemplary embodiment, the headstock housing 110 includes an inner wall, such as a partition wall, that divides the cavity 114 into different chambers, each chamber configured to receive a corresponding plug connector 200. The partition wall may extend between the top 124 and the bottom 126. In an exemplary embodiment, the headstock housing 110 includes a guide feature 130 to guide the plug connector 200 into the cavity 114. The guide feature 130 may define a bonding feature for bonding with a particular plug connector 200.

[0034] A latch 140 extends from one of the walls 112 of the headstock housing 110 (e.g., the top wall). Optionally, the latch 140 may be integral with the headstock housing 110, for example, co-molded with the headstock housing 110. In various embodiments, the latch feature 142 is a fixed latch feature having a ramped surface 144 and a catch surface 146. In alternative embodiments, the latch feature 142 may be a deflectable latch, such as a deflectable latch arm. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 140 is an internal latch located inside the headstock housing 110 (e.g., in cavity 114). In various other embodiments, the latch 140 may be an external latch, for example, located outside the wall 112.

[0035] The headstock contact 150 is coupled to the headstock housing 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact 150 is coupled to one or more of the walls 112 of the headstock housing 110. For example, the contact 150 may be coupled to the rear wall at the rear portion 122 of the headstock housing 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact 150 is a stamped and formed contact. Each contact 150 extends between a mating end 152 and a terminating end 154. The mating end 152 is configured to mate with the plug connector 200. The terminating end 154 is configured to be electrically connected to the main circuit board 20. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact 150 is a right-angle contact having a mating end 152 perpendicular to the terminating end 154. For example, the mating end 152 may extend horizontally, and the terminating end 154 may extend vertically. In alternative embodiments, other orientations are possible. The mating end 152 extends through the rear wall into a cavity 114 for mating with the plug connector 200. Optionally, contact 150 may include a pin at mating end 152. In other embodiments, contact 150 may include a socket or other type of mating end. Termination end 154 extends through the bottom wall of headstock housing 110 for connection to main circuit board 20. The bottom wall may form a contact manager for maintaining the relative position of the termination ends 154 of contact 150. Optionally, termination end 154 may include a solder tail. In other embodiments, contact 150 may include a compliant pin or other type of termination end. Contact 150 may be arranged in one or more rows and one or more columns. Contact 150 may include signal contacts and / or ground contacts and / or power contacts.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view of a plug connector 200 according to an exemplary embodiment. The plug connector 200 includes a plurality of plug contacts 250 (in... Figure 7 The plug housing 210 (shown in the figure) is shown. The plug connector 200 includes a plug latch 240 having a latching element 242 for latchably engaging the plug connector 200 to the plug connector 200. The plug connector 200 includes a wireless communication element 306.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the plug housing 210 is made of a dielectric material. For example, the plug housing 210 may be molded from a plastic material. The plug housing 210 includes a plurality of walls 212. The plug housing 210 includes a contact cavity 214 for receiving a corresponding plug contact 250. The plug housing 210 extends between a mating end 216 and a terminating end 218. The mating end 216 is configured to insert into the cavity 114 of the headstock housing 110 (e.g., ...). Figure 2 (As shown). In an exemplary embodiment, termination 218 is a cable end from which cable 202 extends. In an alternative embodiment, termination 218 is configured to be mounted to a circuit board.

[0038] The plug housing 210 includes a front portion 220 and a rear portion 222. The plug housing 210 includes a top portion 224 and a bottom portion 226. The plug housing 210 includes a side portion 228 between the top portion 224 and the bottom portion 226. In an exemplary embodiment, a mating end 216 is disposed at the front portion 220. In alternative embodiments, other locations are possible, such as the top portion 224. A contact cavity 214 opens at the front portion 220 to receive a headstock contact 150. In an exemplary embodiment, a termination end 218 is disposed at the rear portion 222. However, the termination end 218 may be disposed at other locations, such as the bottom portion 226. In the illustrated embodiment, a latch 240 is disposed at the top portion 224. For example, the latch 240 is positioned along the outer surface of the top wall at the top portion 224 of the plug housing 210. In alternative embodiments, other locations are possible. In an exemplary embodiment, the plug housing 210 includes a guide feature 230 to guide mating of the plug connector 200 with the headstock connector 100. The guide feature 230 can be defined as a bonding feature for bonding with the head housing 110.

[0039] A latch 240 extends from one of the walls 212 of the plug housing 210, such as the top wall. Optionally, the latch 240 may be integral with the plug housing 210, for example, co-molded with the plug housing 210. In various embodiments, the latch feature 242 includes a deflectable latch arm 244 having a latch opening 245 that receives the latch feature 142 of the headstock connector 100 to latchably engage the plug connector 200 to the headstock connector 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the latch arm 244 includes a ramp 246 configured to engage the headstock connector 100, for example, to deflect the latch arm 244. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 240 includes an actuator 248, such as a pusher, for releasing the latch 240.

[0040] For further reference Figure 5This illustration shows one of a plug contact 250 according to an exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the contact 250 is configured to terminate a cable 202, for example, crimped to an end of the cable 202. The contact 250 is configured to be received in a contact channel 214. Each plug contact 250 extends between a mating end 252 and a terminating end 254. The mating end 252 is configured to mate with a corresponding plug contact 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating end 252 includes a socket; however, in alternative embodiments, other types of contacts may be provided, such as pins, blades, spring beams, or other types of contacts. The terminating end 254 is configured to be electrically connected to the cable 202. For example, the terminating end 254 may include a crimping sleeve configured to crimp to the cable 202.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the first and second electrical connectors 100, 200 in an uncoordinated state. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing first and second electrical connectors 100, 200 in a partially mated state. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the first and second electrical connectors 100 and 200 in a fully mated state. Figure 6-8 A mating verification system 300 is shown for verifying the mating status (e.g., yes / no or mating / not mating) of the first and second electrical connectors 100, 200.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, when electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate, the mating verification system 300 forms a wireless communication circuit 310. The wireless communication circuit 310 is disconnected until the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated. In an exemplary embodiment, the mating verification system 300 includes a reader 308 configured to interrogate the wireless communication circuit 310, such as an RFID circuit defining the wireless communication circuit 310. The wireless communication circuit 310 is undiscoverable until the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated. For example, when the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are not mated or are partially mated, the wireless communication circuit 310 is undiscoverable, and therefore no verification signal is sent to the reader 308. After the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated, the wireless communication circuit 310 is fully mated and discoverable, and a verification signal is sent to the reader 308. When a verification signal indicating to the installer that the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated is received, a visual or audible indicator can be provided at the reader 308. The reader 308 can communicate with another system (such as a central workstation) that mates with the electrical connectors 100 and 200. In various embodiments, the reader 308 can, for example, simultaneously scan mating verification signals from multiple electrical connectors, and the central workstation can monitor the mating status of all connectors. For example, the reader can be integrated into an assembly line, such as for a vehicle, to monitor the mating status of numerous electrical connectors within the vehicle as it passes along the assembly line.

[0043] The first electrical connector 100 includes a first wireless communication element 304, and the second electrical connector 200 includes a second wireless communication element 306. The first wireless communication element 304 and the second wireless communication element 306 are configured to be electrically connected when the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are mated. The first wireless communication element 304 and the second wireless communication element 306 form part of the wireless communication circuit 310.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication circuit 310 includes one or more integrated circuit components 312 and a wireless communication antenna 314. One or more integrated circuit components 312 may include a microchip. Multiple integrated circuit components 312 may store and process information. This information may be stored in non-volatile memory. One or more integrated circuit components 312 may modulate and demodulate radio frequency (RF) signals. One or more integrated circuit components 312 may include fixed or programmable logic for processing information. The wireless communication circuit 310 may include or define a wireless communication tag, such as an RFID tag. The integrated circuit components 312 may be integrated into a first electrical connector 100 and / or a second electrical connector 200. For example, the integrated circuit components 312 may be integrated into the housing of the corresponding electrical connectors 100, 200. In various other embodiments, the integrated circuit components 312 may be disposed on other components, such as a host circuit board 20 and / or a cable 202.

[0045] The wireless communication antenna 314 receives and transmits signals, for example, to / from the reader 308. The wireless communication antenna 314 can operate at a predetermined frequency or frequency range. The size and / or shape and / or length of the wireless communication antenna 314 can control its operating frequency. In an exemplary embodiment, a first wireless communication element 304 forms a first antenna portion 316 of the wireless communication antenna 314, and a second wireless communication element 306 forms a second antenna portion 318 of the wireless communication antenna 314. Therefore, the wireless communication antenna 314 is not formed until the first and second wireless communication elements 304 and 306 are coupled together (e.g., until the first and second electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully engaged). For example, before engagement, the size and / or shape and / or length of the wireless communication antenna 314 may be too short to operate outside the predetermined frequency. Therefore, the wireless communication circuit 310 is undetectable until the first wireless communication element 304 and 306 are coupled together (e.g., until the first electrical connector 100 and 200 are fully engaged).

[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 9 The head connector 100 is shown mounted to the main circuit board 20. The plug connector 200 is ready to mate with the head connector 100.

[0047] The headstock connector 100 includes a headstock housing 110 that holds headstock contacts 150. The headstock connector 100 includes a wireless communication element 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 304 includes one of the headstock contacts 150 that defines a conductor 320 forming a portion of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 320 defines a first antenna portion 316. The conductor 320 is electrically connected to a host circuit board 20. In the illustrated embodiment, an integrated circuit component 312 is coupled to the host circuit board 20. The integrated circuit component 312 is electrically connected to the conductor 320.

[0048] The plug connector 200 includes a plug housing 210 that retains plug contacts 250. The plug connector 200 includes a wireless communication element 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 306 includes one of the plug contacts 250 and one of the cables 202 that defines a conductor 322 forming a portion of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 322 defines a second antenna portion 318. For example, the plug contacts 250 and the cable 202 form the second antenna portion 318.

[0049] Before the electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate, the wireless communication circuit 310 is disconnected. For example, because the plug connector 200 is de-mated with the head connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is de-mated with the first antenna portion 316. Therefore, the portion of the antenna circuit connected to the integrated circuit component 312 has a short length and can therefore operate at frequencies other than the operating frequency of the mating verification system 300. When the second antenna portion 318 is de-mated with the first antenna portion 316, the wireless communication component 302 is undetectable. When the plug connector 200 is connected to the head connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is connected to the first antenna portion 316. For example, the plug contact 250 defining conductor 322 is connected to the head contact 150 defining conductor 320. After the first wireless communication antenna 316 and the second wireless communication antenna 318 are connected and the total length of the wireless communication antenna 314 is connected to the integrated circuit component 312, the antenna circuit 310 becomes detectable. In an exemplary embodiment, the plug contacts 250 and head contacts 150 forming the wireless communication antennas 316, 318 may be the last mating contacts, configured to engage only after the electrical connectors 100, 200 are fully mated (e.g., after the other contacts 150, 250 have mated and after the latching elements have been connected together). Thus, the wireless communication circuit 310 serves as verification of the full mating of the electrical connectors 100, 200.

[0050] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 10A headstock connector 100 is shown mounted to the main circuit board 20. A plug connector 200 is ready to mate with the headstock connector 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the integrated circuit component 312 is coupled to the headstock housing 110 instead of the main circuit board 20.

[0051] The headstock connector 100 includes a headstock housing 110 that holds headstock contacts 150. The headstock connector 100 includes a wireless communication element 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 304 includes one of the headstock contacts 150 that defines a conductor 320 forming a portion of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 320 defines a first antenna portion 316. The conductor 320 is electrically connected to an integrated circuit component 312.

[0052] The plug connector 200 includes a plug housing 210 that retains plug contacts 250. The plug connector 200 includes a wireless communication element 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 306 includes one of the plug contacts 250 and one of the cables 202 that defines a conductor 322 forming a portion of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 322 defines a second antenna portion 318. For example, the plug contacts 250 and the cable 202 form the second antenna portion 318.

[0053] Before the electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate, the wireless communication circuit 310 is disconnected. For example, because the plug connector 200 is de-mated with the head connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is de-mated with the first antenna portion 316. Therefore, the portion of the antenna circuit connected to the integrated circuit component 312 has a short length and can therefore operate at frequencies other than the operating frequency of the mating verification system 300. When the second antenna portion 318 is de-mated with the first antenna portion 316, the wireless communication component 302 is undetectable. When the plug connector 200 is connected to the head connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is connected to the first antenna portion 316. For example, the plug contact 250 defining conductor 322 is connected to the head contact 150 defining conductor 320. After the first wireless communication antenna 316 and the second wireless communication antenna 318 are connected and the total length of the wireless communication antenna 314 is connected to the integrated circuit component 312, the antenna circuit 310 becomes detectable. In an exemplary embodiment, the plug contacts 250 and head contacts 150 forming the wireless communication antennas 316, 318 may be the last mating contacts, configured to engage only after the electrical connectors 100, 200 are fully mated (e.g., after the other contacts 150, 250 have mated and after the latching elements have been connected together). Thus, the wireless communication circuit 310 serves as verification of the full mating of the electrical connectors 100, 200.

[0054] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 11 A headstock connector 100 is shown mounted to a main circuit board 20. A plug connector 200 is ready to mate with the headstock connector 100. In the illustrated embodiment, an integrated circuit component 312 is incorporated into the plug connector 200 instead of the headstock connector 100. For example, the integrated circuit component 312 may be coupled to a plug housing 210 instead of the headstock housing 110 or the main circuit board 20. In an alternative embodiment, the integrated circuit component 312 may be coupled to a cable 202 or a circuit board located at the end of the cable 202.

[0055] The headstock connector 100 includes a headstock housing 110 that holds headstock contacts 150. The headstock connector 100 includes a wireless communication element 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 304 includes one of the headstock contacts 150, which defines a conductor 320 forming a portion of a wireless communication antenna 314. The main circuit board 20 may include traces forming a portion of the conductor 320 and thus a portion of the wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 320 defines a first antenna portion 316.

[0056] The plug connector 200 includes a plug housing 210 that retains plug contacts 250. The plug connector 200 includes a wireless communication element 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 306 includes one of the plug contacts 250 that defines a conductor 322 forming a portion of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 322 defines a second antenna portion 318. The conductor 322 is electrically connected to an integrated circuit component 312.

[0057] Before the electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate, the wireless communication circuit 310 is disconnected. For example, because the plug connector 200 is de-mated with the head connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is de-mated with the first antenna portion 316. Therefore, the portion of the antenna circuit connected to the integrated circuit component 312 has a short length and can therefore operate at frequencies other than the operating frequency of the mating verification system 300. When the second antenna portion 318 is de-mated with the first antenna portion 316, the wireless communication component 302 is undetectable. When the plug connector 200 is connected to the head connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is connected to the first antenna portion 316. For example, the plug contact 250 defining conductor 322 is connected to the head contact 150 defining conductor 320. After the first wireless communication antenna 316 and the second wireless communication antenna 318 are connected and the total length of the wireless communication antenna 314 is connected to the integrated circuit component 312, the antenna circuit 310 becomes detectable. In an exemplary embodiment, the plug contacts 250 and head contacts 150 forming the wireless communication antennas 316, 318 may be the last mating contacts, configured to engage only after the electrical connectors 100, 200 are fully mated (e.g., after the other contacts 150, 250 have mated and after the latching elements have been connected together). Thus, the wireless communication circuit 310 serves as verification of the full mating of the electrical connectors 100, 200.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 12 A plug connector 200 is shown ready to mate with the head connector 100. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a part of the communication system 10, showing the plug connector 200 partially mating to the head connector 100. Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of a part of the communication system 10, showing the plug connector 200 fully mated to the head connector 100. Figure 13 A latching element that is not engaged (e.g., not latched) is shown, while Figure 14 A latching element that has been engaged (e.g., latched) is shown.

[0059] The headstock connector 100 includes a headstock housing 110 that holds headstock contacts 150. The headstock connector 100 includes a headstock latch 140 with a latching element 142. The headstock connector 100 includes a wireless communication element 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 304 includes a conductor 330 on the headstock housing 110 that forms part of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 330 may be a trace printed or plated onto the headstock housing 110, for example, printed or plated onto an outer surface of the headstock housing 110. The conductor 330 includes a mating pad 332 adjacent to the latching element 142. A conductor 320 defines a first antenna portion 316. The conductor 320 is electrically connected to an integrated circuit component 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the integrated circuit component 312 is coupled to the headstock housing 110.

[0060] The plug connector 200 includes a plug housing 210 that retains plug contacts 250. The plug connector 200 includes a plug latch 240 having a latching element 242. In the illustrated embodiment, the latching element 242 includes a deflectable latching arm 244. The plug connector 200 includes a wireless communication element 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication element 306 includes a conductor 340 on the deflectable latching arm 244 and / or the plug housing 210, which forms part of a wireless communication antenna 314. The conductor 340 defines a second antenna portion 318. The conductor 340 may be a trace printed or plated onto the plug housing 210 and / or the latching arm 244. The conductor 340 includes a mating pad 342, for example at the distal end of the latching arm 244. The mating pad 342 is configured to engage and electrically connect to the mating pad 332 when the plug latch 240 is latchably engaged to the headstock latch 140. For example, when the latch arm 244 is in the latched position, the mating pad 342 engages the mating pad 332 to close the antenna circuit 310. In various embodiments, as an addition to or alternative to the plug latch 240 and the headstock latch 140, the wireless communication element 306 may be incorporated into the CPA device (such as...). Figure 1 On the CPA devices 104 and 204 shown.

[0061] Before the electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate, the wireless communication circuit 310 is disconnected. For example, because the plug connector 200 is disengaged from the headstock connector 100, the second antenna portion 318 is disengaged from the first antenna portion 316. Therefore, the portion of the antenna circuit connected to the integrated circuit component 312 has a short length and is thus able to operate at frequencies outside the operating frequency of the mating verification system 300. When the second antenna portion 318 is disengaged from the first antenna portion 316, the wireless communication component 302 is undetectable. When the plug connector 200 is engaged to the headstock connector 100 and the plug latch 240 latches to the headstock latch 140, the second antenna portion 318 is engaged to the first antenna portion 316. For example, the mating pad 342 at the distal end of the latch arm 244 is engaged to the mating pad 332 on the outer surface of the headstock housing 110. After the first wireless communication antenna 316 and the second wireless communication antenna 318 are connected and the total length of the wireless communication antenna 314 is connected to the integrated circuit component 312, the antenna circuit 310 becomes detectable. In an exemplary embodiment, mating pad 342 engages mating pad 332 only when electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated (e.g., after the other contacts 150 and 250 have mated and after latching elements 142 and 242 have been connected together). Thus, wireless communication circuit 310 serves as verification of the full mating of electrical connectors 100 and 200.

[0062] Figure 15 A wireless communication component 302 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The wireless communication component 302 includes a substrate 350 holding an integrated circuit component 312. The substrate 350 supports a wireless communication antenna 314. For example, the substrate 350 may be a printed circuit board, and the wireless communication antenna 314 is formed by one or more circuits on the printed circuit board, such as traces, vias, etc. The wireless communication component 302 includes one or more switches 352 for opening and closing the circuitry forming the wireless communication antenna 314. The switches 352 may be spring contacts movable between an open position and a closed position. When closed, the switches 352 electrically connect the integrated circuit component 312 to the wireless communication antenna 314, and when open, disconnect the integrated circuit component 312 from the wireless communication antenna 314.

[0063] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a communication system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the components incorporated in the communication system 10. Figure 15 The wireless communication component 302 shown. Figure 16A plug connector 200 is shown ready to mate with headstock connector 100. A wireless communication component 302 is configured to be positioned between the plug connector 200 and the headstock connector 100. The wireless communication component 302 may be received in a cavity of the headstock housing 110. In various other embodiments, the wireless communication component 302 may be disposed at the mating end of the plug connector 200 and configured to be inserted into the headstock housing 110 together with the plug connector 200.

[0064] The wireless communication circuit 310 is disconnected before the electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate. For example, switch 352 can be disconnected before the electrical connectors 100 and 200 mate. When the plug connector 200 is inserted into the headstock connector 100, the substrate 350 is positioned between the mating end of the plug connector 200 and the end wall of the headstock housing 110. When the plug connector 200 is fully mated with the headstock connector 100, switch 352 is pressed to the closed position to close the antenna circuit 310. For example, when switch 352 is closed, integrated circuit component 312 is connected to the wireless communication antenna 314 via switch 352. After switch 352 is closed (e.g., when the electrical connectors 100 and 200 are fully mated), the antenna circuit 310 becomes visible. Thus, the wireless communication circuit 310 serves as verification of the full mating of the electrical connectors 100 and 200.

Claims

1. An electrical connector (100), comprising: A housing (110) having a wall (112) extending between a mating end (116) and a terminating end (118), the mating end being configured to mate with a mating electrical connector (200). Contacts (150), which are held by the housing, each contact extending between a mating end (152) and a terminating end (154), the mating end of the contact being configured to mate with a mating contact (206) of the mating electrical connector. A latching element (142) is configured to be latchably connected to the mating electrical connector when the housing is fully mated to the mating electrical connector. and A mating verification device (300) is coupled to the housing and includes a wireless communication element (304) configured to transmit a verification signal indicating that the electrical connector mates with the mating electrical connector.

2. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) is configured to send the verification signal only when the electrical connector is fully engaged with the mating electrical connector (200).

3. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) is configured to send the verification signal only after the latching element (142) is latchably connected to the mating latching element (242) of the mating electrical connector.

4. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) becomes detectable only after the electrical connector is fully engaged with the mating electrical connector (200), so that the verification signal is sent as verification of the full engagement of the electrical connector with the mating electrical connector.

5. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1 further includes a connector position guarantee device (104) (CPA device), wherein the wireless communication element (304) is coupled to the CPA device.

6. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The CPA device (104) is configured to be actuated between an open position and a closed position, and after the latching element (142) is latchably coupled to the mating latching element, the CPA device can be moved to the closed position, and the wireless communication element (304) can move with the CPA device and is configured to mate with the mating electrical connector when the CPA device is in the closed position.

7. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes an integrated circuit element (312) and an antenna (314) connected to the integrated circuit element.

8. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes a first antenna portion (316) configured to be electrically connected to a second antenna portion (318) of the mating electrical connector to form an antenna circuit (310), such that the verification circuit is transmitted only when the first antenna portion is electrically connected to the second antenna portion.

9. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes a cable (202) connected to a first contact in the contact (150), the cable and the first contact forming part of a wireless communication antenna (314).

10. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes conductive traces on at least one wall of the wall (112) of the housing (110), the conductive traces forming at least a portion of the wireless communication antenna (314).

11. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes conductive traces on the latching element (142), the conductive traces being configured to be electrically connected to a pad (332) on the mating electrical connector (200) when the latching element is latchably coupled to the mating latching element.

12. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes a wireless communication antenna (314) and a switch (352) connected to the wireless communication antenna. When the electrical connector is engaged with the mating electrical connector (200), the switch is closed to close the wireless communication antenna circuit of the wireless communication antenna.

13. The electrical connector (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication element (304) includes an RFID element that uses an electromagnetic field for wireless communication.

14. A communication system (10), comprising: The plug connector (200) includes a plug housing (210), a plug contact (250) held by the plug housing, and a plug latch (240) having a latching element (242). A head connector (100) includes a head housing (110), a head contact (150) held by the head housing, and a head latch (140) having a latching element (142), the head connector mating to the plug connector (200) at a mating interface; and The wireless communication component (302) at the mating interface; The plug housing is configured to insert into the headstock housing to mate the plug contact with the headstock contact (150), and the latching element of the headstock latch abuts against the latching element of the plug latch to latchably connect the plug connector to the headstock connector; and The wireless communication component is configured to transmit a verification signal indicating the mating status of the plug connector and the head connector.

15. The communication system (10) according to claim 14, wherein, The plug connector (200) includes a first wireless communication element (304), and the head connector includes a second wireless communication element (306). When the plug connector is connected to the head connector, the first wireless communication element and the second wireless communication element are connected to send the verification signal.

16. The communication system (10) according to claim 15, wherein, The first wireless communication element (304) includes a first wireless communication antenna portion (316), and the second wireless communication element (306) includes a second wireless communication antenna portion (318). The first wireless communication antenna portion and the second wireless communication antenna portion are connected to form an antenna circuit (310) only when the plug connector (200) is fully engaged with the head connector.

17. The communication system (10) according to claim 14, wherein, The wireless communication component (302) is configured to send the verification signal only when the plug connector (200) is fully engaged with the head connector (100).

18. The communication system (10) of claim 14 further includes a connector position guarantee device (104) (CPA device), the connector position guarantee device (104) being configured to be actuated between an open position and a closed position, wherein the CPA device is movable to the closed position after the latching element (242) of the plug connector (200) is latchably coupled to the latching element of the head connector, wherein, The wireless communication component (304) can only send the verification signal when the CPA device is in the closed position.

19. The communication system (10) according to claim 14, wherein, The wireless communication component (304) includes conductive traces on at least one of the plug housing (210) or the head housing, the conductive traces forming at least a portion of the wireless communication antenna (314).

20. The communication system (10) according to claim 14, wherein, The wireless communication component (304) includes conductive traces on at least one of the latching element (242) of the plug latch (240) or the latching element of the head latch, the conductive traces forming at least a portion of the wireless communication antenna (314).

21. The communication system (10) according to claim 14, wherein, The wireless communication component (304) includes a wireless communication antenna (314) and a switch (352) connected to the wireless communication antenna. When the plug connector (200) is fully engaged with the head connector, the switch closes to close the wireless communication antenna circuit (310) of the wireless communication antenna.

22. A communication system (10), comprising: A plug connector (200) includes a plug housing (210), a plug contact (250) held by the plug housing, and a plug latch (240) having a latching element (242), the plug connector including a first wireless communication element (304). A headstock connector includes a headstock housing, headstock contacts held by the headstock housing, and a headstock latch having a latching element, the headstock connector including a second wireless communication element (306). Wherein, the plug housing is configured to insert into the headstock housing to mate the plug contacts with the headstock contacts, and the latching element of the headstock latch abuts with the latching element of the plug latch to latchably connect the plug connector to the headstock connector; and When the plug connector is connected to the head connector, the first wireless communication element and the second wireless communication element are connected to send a verification signal indicating the mating status of the plug connector and the head connector.

23. The communication system (10) according to claim 22, wherein, The first wireless communication element (304) includes a first wireless communication antenna portion (316), and the second wireless communication element (306) includes a second wireless communication antenna portion (318). The first wireless communication antenna portion and the second wireless communication antenna portion are connected to form an antenna circuit (310) only when the plug connector (200) is fully engaged with the head connector.

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