Terminal position assurance device for an electrical connector

Abstract

A terminal position assurance device for an electrical connector, the terminal position assurance device comprising: a mounting body configured to be attached to an electrical connector housing; and a locking body having at least one locking member extending from the locking body and corresponding to a terminal receiving cavity within the electrical connector housing, characterized in that the locking body is connected to the mounting body by means of a hinged member, wherein a first position of the hinged member defines an open state of the terminal position assurance device in which the locking member is inoperable to engage a terminal within the terminal receiving cavity, and a second position of the hinged member defines a closed state of the terminal position assurance device in which the locking member is operable to engage a terminal within the terminal receiving cavity. Kits and assemblies having such terminal position assurance devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a terminal position assurance (TPA) device for an electrical connector. This disclosure also relates to a kit including an electrical connector and at least one separate terminal position assurance device, and an assembly including an electrical connector and at least one terminal position assurance device. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of electrical connectors, a mechanism called a Terminal Position Assurance (TPA) device is commonly used to ensure that electrical terminals are correctly and securely positioned within the connector housing. TPA devices are crucial for maintaining a reliable electrical connection, especially in applications where the connector is subjected to vibration or other mechanical stresses. Known electrical connectors typically involve TPA devices that are either integral with the connector housing or inseparably attached to it. TPA devices have an open position and can be closed by moving them to a second position. In the closed position, the TPA typically extends into the terminal receiving cavity of the connector housing to engage with the electrical terminals therein. This design ensures that the electrical terminals remain securely seated within their respective cavities, preventing disconnection or electrical failure.

[0003] While terminal position protection devices are widely used in electrical connectors, known terminal position protection devices lack flexibility. Typically, the connector housing is equipped with a specific type of terminal position protection device. This lack of flexibility is problematic in various applications, especially when the connector needs to be adapted to different constructions, or when maintenance and repair require new terminal position protection devices. Furthermore, the fixed nature of these terminal position protection devices can complicate the connector manufacturing process, as precise alignment and connection are required during assembly, potentially increasing production costs and time.

[0004] Furthermore, the increasing demand for connectors capable of handling higher voltages presents additional challenges to terminal position assurance devices. Higher voltages necessitate the introduction of dielectric material between terminals within the housing to ensure insulation and safe operation. However, connector housings with fixed terminal position assurance devices limit the connector to a specific voltage range, restricting its versatility and applicability in a variety of high-voltage scenarios. This limitation is particularly restrictive in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment, where connectors must meet stringent electrical and mechanical requirements.

[0005] Therefore, one of the technical problems upon which this invention is based is to provide a terminal position guarantee device that at least partially overcomes the shortcomings of known systems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a terminal position guarantee device that overcomes one or more drawbacks of known systems.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention provides a terminal position assurance (TPA) device for an electrical connector, the terminal position assurance device comprising: an assembly configured to be attached to an electrical connector housing; and a locking body having at least one locking member extending from the locking body and corresponding to a terminal receiving cavity within the electrical connector housing. The locking body is connected to the assembly by means of a hinge member, wherein a first position of the hinge member defines an open state of the terminal position assurance device, in which the locking member is inoperable to engage a terminal within the terminal receiving cavity (when mounted to the connector housing), and a second position of the hinge member defines a closed state of the terminal position assurance device, in which the locking member is operable to engage a terminal within the terminal receiving cavity.

[0008] The advantage of this design is that it provides a separate terminal position guarantee device with a hinged mechanism for the electrical connector, allowing the device to be pre-assembled onto the connector housing and delivered to the wire harness manufacturer, or delivered separately. This enhances the design flexibility of the terminal position guarantee devices, as they can be mounted independently on the electrical connector. Both the assembly and the locking body can be designed more flexibly to be optimized for the intended task.

[0009] Generally, the terminal position guarantee device is preferably made of a dielectric material, particularly a dielectric thermoplastic material. The best method for manufacturing the terminal position guarantee device of the present invention is to injection mold it into a single integral piece. Of course, other manufacturing methods or materials are not excluded and are equally feasible.

[0010] In a first embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the locking body may include a plurality of locking members.

[0011] This design enhances the functionality of the terminal position guarantee device by allowing it to engage multiple terminals within the terminal receiving cavity of the electrical connector housing. In this case, the communication mechanism between components involves the interaction between multiple locking members and the terminal receiving cavity. The locking members are designed to correspond to the cavity, ensuring that each member securely engages the terminal when the terminal position guarantee device is in the closed state. A hinged member facilitates the transition of the terminal position guarantee device between an open and closed state. In the open state, the hinged member positions the locking body so that the locking member cannot engage the terminal. Conversely, in the closed state, the hinged member aligns the locking body to allow the locking member to effectively engage the terminal.

[0012] The introduction of multiple locking components brings several advantages to terminal position assurance devices. It improves the reliability of terminal engagement by providing multiple contact points, which enhances the overall stability and robustness of the electrical connection. This is particularly beneficial in applications using multiple terminals that require simultaneous protection. Multiple locking components also allow for greater flexibility in the design of the connector housing, as it can accommodate terminal receiving cavities with various configurations. Furthermore, the presence of multiple locking components contributes to redundancy in the locking mechanism, ensuring that even if one component fails to properly engage the terminal, other components can compensate, thus maintaining the integrity of the connection. Overall, adding multiple locking components to the locking body significantly enhances the operability of the terminal position assurance device, providing a more robust and versatile solution for securing terminals within the electrical connector.

[0013] In another embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the locking member may be a locking tooth.

[0014] The locking teeth are designed to interact with the terminals within the terminal receiving cavity in a more robust and reliable manner, ensuring proper engagement and retention of the terminals within the connector housing, thereby potentially reducing the risk of terminal displacement or improper connection. The locking teeth are also particularly suitable for separating multiple electrical terminals within the housing, as they can fill unused spaces between the terminals. Therefore, the locking teeth can fill unused spaces within the terminal receiving cavity not occupied by electrical terminals, thus providing better dielectric material between the terminals. This enhancement is especially important in applications where robust electrical connections are critical at higher voltages (e.g., 48V), such as in automotive or industrial electrical systems where vibration and other environmental factors can compromise the integrity of the connection. By designating the locking element as locking teeth, this embodiment ensures that the terminal position guarantee device delivers consistent and reliable performance, thereby improving the overall effectiveness and usability of the electrical connector system.

[0015] In another embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the locking member may be a locking piece.

[0016] Unlike other possible forms of locking members, such as teeth or clamps, the locking tab provides an elongated contact surface that can simultaneously engage multiple electrical terminals within the terminal receiving cavity of the connector housing in a robust and stable manner. The position of the hinged member defines the operating state of the terminal position guaranteeing device; the open state disables the locking tab, while the closed state allows the locking tab to engage with the terminals. The introduction of the locking tab as a locking member improves the functionality of the terminal position guaranteeing device by potentially providing a more robust locking mechanism. This improvement enhances the performance of securing terminals within the electrical connector housing, ensuring terminals remain in their intended position and reducing the risk of disconnection or electrical failure. Specific designs of the locking tab are particularly suitable for lower voltage (e.g., 12V) applications where additional material is not required in the unused space between multiple electrical terminals. In summary, the description of the locking member as an embodiment of the locking tab introduces a new feature that improves the functionality of the locking mechanism, providing a more robust engagement, improved performance, and increased manufacturing and assembly efficiency.

[0017] In another embodiment of the device, the assembly may include a fastening member configured to attach the assembly to the electrical connector housing.

[0018] The introduction of the fastening member provides a specific mechanism for securing the assembly to the electrical connector housing. This feature ensures the assembly is securely attached to the housing, which helps maintain terminal position and ensures the integrity of the device's operation. By incorporating the fastening member, this embodiment addresses potential problems associated with movement or displacement of the assembly, which could lead to incorrect engagement of the locking member with the terminals. The fastening member enhances communication between the assembly and the electrical connector housing by providing a robust attachment mechanism, which facilitates the proper functioning of the hinged member and the locking member. This secure attachment facilitates the transition of the device between open and closed states, ensuring that the locking member can engage and disengage the terminals as needed.

[0019] The fastening member may be a latch hook configured to engage with a receiving portion on the electrical connector housing.

[0020] The latch hook, acting as a fastening component, provides a robust and reliable attachment method, ensuring that the terminal position guarantee device can be easily installed onto the housing and remains securely in place after installation. The communication mechanism between the latch hook and the receiving portion ensures a smooth transition of the terminal position guarantee device between its open and closed states, as defined by the position of the hinged component.

[0021] Preferably, the locking body may include a closing member configured to secure the hinge member in a second position by engaging with the electrical connector housing.

[0022] The communication mechanism between components in this embodiment enhances the functionality of the terminal position guarantee device by ensuring that the hinge member remains in the closed position, thereby allowing the locking member to engage with the terminal within the terminal receiving cavity. The closing member provides additional robustness and stability for the positioning of the hinge member, preventing accidental disengagement or movement that could jeopardize the connection of the terminals within the electrical connector housing. By engaging with the electrical connector housing, the closing member acts as a physical barrier or lock that holds the hinge member in its closed position, thereby ensuring the reliability and integrity of the terminal engagement. This feature addresses potential problems associated with hinge member movement and adds an extra layer of assurance that the terminal position guarantee device will function correctly in maintaining the terminal position. This enhancement is particularly important in applications where the electrical connector may be subjected to vibration, movement, or other external forces that could otherwise cause the hinge member to change from its closed state.

[0023] In a further improvement, the assembly can be configured to be attached to the electrical connector housing via a mating axis.

[0024] The assembly can be designed to attach to the electrical connector housing via a mating axis, establishing a precise alignment for the attachment process. This feature ensures accurate positioning of the assembly relative to the electrical connector housing, thereby promoting a reliable connection. Furthermore, the hinge axis of the hinge member is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the mating axis. By positioning the hinge axis in a vertical plane, the hinge member can pivot more effectively, providing a clear distinction between the open and closed states of the terminal position assurance device. In the open state, the locking member cannot operate to engage the terminals within the terminal receiving cavity, while in the closed state, the locking member can operate to engage the terminals within the terminal receiving cavity. This vertical arrangement of the hinge axis allows for more controlled and precise movement of the hinge member, thereby improving the overall operability and reliability of the terminal position assurance device.

[0025] In further improvements, the hinged component can be a movable hinge.

[0026] A movable hinge (also known as a membrane hinge) is a thin, flexible hinge made of the same material as the assembly, locking body, and hinge member itself. This material is preferably a polymer, such as plastic. Using movable hinges for terminal position assurance devices offers several advantages. First, by being made of the same material, movable hinges allow for seamless integration of the hinge member with other components, ensuring uniformity of material properties such as flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. This uniformity makes the hinge member more reliable because it reduces the risk of material incompatibility or failure at the joint between different materials. Furthermore, movable hinges provide a cost-effective solution by simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing production costs by eliminating the need for additional parts or materials to create the hinge mechanism. Movable hinges also enhance the ease of assembly and operation of terminal position assurance devices. Their inherent flexibility allows for a smooth transition between the open and closed states of the device, facilitating engagement and disengagement of the locking member with the terminals within the terminal receiving cavity. This flexibility improves the user experience by making the device easier to handle and operate, especially in applications requiring frequent adjustments. Furthermore, using plastic as a preferred material for movable hinges and other components offers advantages such as lightweight construction, dielectric properties, corrosion resistance, and the ability to be molded into complex shapes, further enhancing the design possibilities and functionality of the terminal position assurance device.

[0027] In a further improvement, at least one locking member may correspond to the terminal receiving cavity, such that in the second position of the hinge member, the locking member can fill the cavity by at least 70%.

[0028] This embodiment introduces a specific communication mechanism between the locking member and the terminal receiving cavity within the electrical connector housing. In the second position of the hinged member, the locking member can be designed to correspond to the terminal receiving cavity in such a way that it fills at least 70%, preferably 80%, and more preferably 90% of the unused space within the cavity. Unused space refers to the space occupied by uninserted terminals or other components. This feature enhances the functionality and reliability of the terminal positioning assurance device by ensuring a more secure engagement between the locking member and the terminals within the cavity. The detailed correspondence between the locking member and the cavity ensures that the terminals are firmly held in place, thus providing a higher degree of assurance for a stable and secure electrical connection. Specifically, by substantially filling the cavity between the terminals, a dielectric material is introduced between the terminals, improving signal integrity. The more the locking member fills the cavity, the smaller the unused space between multiple electrical terminals, which can be particularly beneficial for applications with higher voltages.

[0029] In a further improvement, the device may also include a detachable support member that connects the locking body to the assembly, such that the hinge member remains in the first position.

[0030] This embodiment introduces a disconnectable support member as an additional component in the terminal position guaranteeing device. This disconnectable support member serves as a temporary connection between the locking body and the assembly, effectively holding the hinged member in its first position. Therefore, the disconnectable support member acts as a mechanism to hold the hinged member in the open state until a predetermined condition requires its transition to the closed state. The introduction of the disconnectable support member brings several new features and advantages to the terminal position guaranteeing device. First, it provides a mechanism for the controlled transition of the hinged member from the open to the closed state. This ensures that the locking member remains disengaged from the terminal until the disconnectable support member is intentionally disconnected or otherwise removed, allowing the hinged member to move to its second position. In the closed state, the locking member becomes operable to engage the terminal within the terminal receiving cavity, thereby securing the terminal in place. Therefore, the disconnectable support member enhances the reliability and functionality of the terminal position guaranteeing device by preventing premature engagement of the locking member with the terminal. Furthermore, the disconnectable support member introduces a fail-safe function to the device. In cases where the terminal position guaranteeing device needs to remain in the open state for an extended period, the disconnectable support member ensures that the hinged member does not unintentionally transition to the closed state. This is particularly beneficial in applications where electrical connectors may be subjected to vibration or other external forces that could otherwise cause unintended movement of the articulated components. Furthermore, the disconnectable support component can be designed to break under specific conditions, such as the application of a certain amount of force or pressure, thus providing a controlled and predictable mechanism for switching the device to its closed state.

[0031] In further improvements, assemblies, locking bodies, and detachable support components can be molded into single pieces.

[0032] This feature significantly enhances the terminal position assurance mechanism for electrical connectors by ensuring that all major components are integrally formed, eliminating the need for separate assembly processes and reducing the likelihood of misalignment or mechanical failure between parts. The connectivity between components is inherently streamlined because the molding process ensures that the assembly, locking body, and disconnectable support members are precisely positioned relative to each other from the outset. This integral molding enhances the structural integrity of the terminal position assurance mechanism, providing a more robust and reliable mechanism for ensuring terminal position assurance. The integral molding also facilitates the installation and maintenance of the terminal position assurance mechanism, as fewer parts need to be managed and aligned during connection to the electrical connector housing.

[0033] A second aspect of the invention provides a kit comprising: an electrical connector having an electrical connector housing and a separate terminal position assurance (TPA) device according to the first aspect, the electrical connector housing having at least one terminal receiving cavity.

[0034] The subject matter described in the second aspect is a kit comprising an electrical connector and at least one separate terminal position assurance (TPA) device according to the first aspect. The electrical connector has a housing containing at least one cavity designed to receive a terminal. The terminal position assurance device is different and can be any device or combination thereof described in the previous embodiments of the first aspect.

[0035] An electrical connector is a device used to connect circuits together, and its housing is an enclosure that surrounds the internal components. The terminal receiving cavity is a specific compartment within the housing into which electrical terminals can be inserted and held in place.

[0036] A separate terminal position assurance device ensures that the terminals are correctly placed within the cavity and allows for verification, providing a secondary locking mechanism to prevent displacement or misalignment. This device can be pre-assembled or delivered separately to the wire harness manufacturer, offering flexibility during the design and assembly process.

[0037] A third aspect of the invention provides an assembly comprising: an electrical connector having an electrical connector housing and at least one terminal position assurance (TPA) device according to a first aspect, the electrical connector housing having at least one terminal receiving cavity, wherein the terminal position assurance device is attached to the electrical connector housing.

[0038] In a first embodiment of the components according to the third aspect, the hinge member of each terminal position guaranteeing device is in a first position, and the locking body of each terminal position guaranteeing device is configured to prevent the terminal position guaranteeing device from moving along the mating axis by contacting a contact point on the electrical connector housing.

[0039] This construction ensures that the terminal position guarantee device remains securely attached to the electrical connector housing and prevents any accidental final mating until the hinge member is in its second position. The interaction between the locking body and the contact point ensures that the terminal position guarantee device cannot move freely along the mating axis until the hinge member is in its second position.

[0040] This embodiment is particularly suitable for delivery to wire harness manufacturers because after equipping the connector with electrical terminals, they only need to bring the hinge member into the second position so that the terminal position guarantee device can match the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This shows a separate view of a prior art terminal position guarantee device and locking body attached to the housing of an electrical connector; Figure 2 This illustrates another prior art electrical connector housing with an integrated terminal position guarantee device; Figure 3An embodiment of a terminal position guarantee device having a locking tab and locking teeth according to the present invention is shown; Figure 4 : Shows the attachment to the electrical connector housing Figure 3 An embodiment of a terminal position guarantee device; Figure 5 Shown in different views Figure 4 In one embodiment, the positions of the two terminals ensure that the device is attached to the housing. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figure 1 A known terminal position guarantee device in the prior art is shown. The terminal position guarantee device is depicted in two views: one attached to the electrical connector housing 20, and the other as a separate component. The electrical connector housing 20 is part of the electrical connector 2 and includes multiple terminal receiving cavities 22. These cavities are designed to receive and secure electrical contact terminals.

[0043] A known terminal position guarantee device includes an assembly 10 arranged in a U-shape and a locking body 30. The assembly 10 is configured to attach to an electrical connector housing 20. The locking body 30 has a plurality of locking members 32. These locking members 32 are arranged in a manner corresponding to terminal receiving cavities 22 within the electrical connector housing 20. The operating principle of such a terminal position guarantee device is well known to those skilled in the art and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0044] Figure 2 An integrated terminal position guarantee device known in the prior art is shown. The electrical connector 2 is depicted having an electrical connector housing 20. The housing 20 includes a terminal receiving cavity 22 designed to accommodate electrical terminals. The terminal position guarantee device is integrated within the housing 20.

[0045] The housing 20 shown has a pair of flexible locking arms 26, which form a terminal position guarantee device and extend outward from the side of the housing. These locking arms 26 are designed to engage with corresponding features on the connector housing 20 to ensure a secure connection. The locking arms 26 are typically made of a resilient material that allows them to flex and snap into place when the connector is mated. The locking arms 26 are flexibly connected to the connector housing 20 via a connecting portion 28. Again, the operating principle of this integrated terminal position guarantee device is well known to those skilled in the art and therefore will not be explained in detail.

[0046] Figure 3 Two embodiments of a terminal position guarantee device 1 designed for attachment to an electrical connector 2 are shown. The assembly 10 forms the main structural element, providing a framework for attaching other components. The assembly 10 is configured to be securely attached to the electrical connector housing 20, ensuring the stability and proper alignment of the device.

[0047] The locking body 30 is attached to the assembly 10 (integrated with the assembly 10 in the illustrated embodiment) and features a plurality of locking members 32. These locking members 32 are designed to correspond to the terminal receiving cavity 22 within the electrical connector housing 20, ensuring secure engagement with the terminals when the device is in the closed state. The left-hand embodiment includes a locking member in the form of a locking tab, while the right-hand embodiment includes a plurality of locking members 32 in the form of locking teeth.

[0048] The hinge member 40 connects the locking body 30 to the assembly 10, facilitating movement between the open and closed states. In the open state, the locking member 32 does not engage with the terminals, allowing the terminals to be inserted into or removed from the connector housing. Conversely, in the closed state, the hinge member 40 positions the locking body 30 such that the locking member 32 engages the terminals, securing them within the terminal receiving cavity.

[0049] The fastening member 50 is depicted as a latching member, configured to engage with the receiving portion 24 on the electrical connector housing 20. This engagement ensures that the assembly 10 is securely attached to the connector housing, preventing accidental disassembly or misalignment during operation.

[0050] Furthermore, the closing member 60 is shown as part of the locking body 30. This component is designed to secure the hinge member 40 in the closed position by engaging with the electrical connector housing 20. This engagement prevents the hinge member 40 from accidentally moving to the open position, thereby maintaining a secure connection between the terminals.

[0051] Also shown is a detachable support member 80 that connects the locking body 30 to the assembly 10. This detachable support member 80 holds the hinge member 40 in a first position to facilitate initial assembly and handling of the device. Once the device is ready for operation, the detachable support member 80 can be disconnected to allow the hinge member to move to the closed position.

[0052] Figure 4 An electrical connector 2 equipped with two terminal position guarantee devices 1 is shown, one of which (on the left) is already installed into the housing, while the other on the right is not yet installed. The assembly 10 of the terminal position guarantee device 1 is configured to be fixed to the electrical connector housing 20, and the locking body 30 has at least one locking member 32 (see [link to diagram]). Figure 3 The locking member 32 corresponds to an opening in the housing 20 that allows access to the terminal receiving cavity 22 within the housing 20.

[0053] Assembly 10 is attached to the electrical connector housing 20 by first clamping it onto the connecting axis 70 and then sliding it downward along the mating axis 74. The hinge axis 72 of the hinge member 40 is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the mating axis 74, allowing the hinge member 40 to pivot between an open and closed state. The mating axis 74 is the axis along which the connector 2 moves to mate with a corresponding mating connector (not shown).

[0054] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this context, the hinge member 40 is depicted as a movable hinge (membrane hinge), indicating that the assembly 10, the locking body 30, and the hinge member 40 are integrally made of the same material, preferably injection molded plastic.

[0055] The locking member 32 is designed to correspond to the terminal receiving cavity 22 such that, in the closed state, the locking member 32 fills at least 70%, preferably 80%, and more preferably 90% of the unused space in the cavity 22, i.e., the space not occupied by terminals or other components. This ensures a secure engagement with the terminals within the cavity 22 and can improve signal integrity.

[0056] In the preferred embodiment, the assembly 10, locking body 30, and detachable support member 80 are injection molded as a single piece, providing a seamless and integrated construction for the terminal position guarantee device 1.

[0057] Figure 5 Shown in side view Figure 4 In one embodiment, the terminal position guaranteeing device 1 is connected to the electrical connector 2. The electrical connector 2 and the terminal position guaranteeing device 1 together form assembly 1000.

[0058] The assembly 10 of each terminal position guaranteeing device 1 is attached to the electrical connector housing 20 by first clamping the assembly 10 onto the housing along the connecting axis 70. In this state, the locking body 30 of each terminal position guaranteeing device 1 prevents the terminal position guaranteeing device 1 from moving along the mating axis 74 by contacting the contact point 100 on the electrical connector housing 20. Thus, movement along the mating axis 74 is prevented.

[0059] The hinge member 40 is provided with a hinge axis 72, which is perpendicular to the mating axis 74 and the connecting axis 70. This perpendicular arrangement allows the hinge member 40 to pivot, thereby facilitating the transition between the open and closed states.

[0060] Figure 5The terminal position securing device 1 is further shown in its open (left) and closed (right) states, illustrating how the locking member 32 engages with the terminal receiving cavity 22 in the closed state. The hinge member 40 is shown as pivoting about the hinge axis 74, which facilitates the transition between states. When moved to the closed state, each terminal position securing device 1 slides downward along the mating axis 74, thereby creating an idle space 90. In other words, the terminal position securing device 1 is closed to its final position along axis 70, whereby the locking body 30 contacts the contact surface where the contact point 100 is located, preventing further movement along axis 74.

Claims

1. A terminal position guaranteeing device (1) for an electrical connector (2), the terminal position guaranteeing device (1) comprising: Assembly (10) configured to be attached to electrical connector housing (20); as well as Locking body (30) having at least one locking member (32) extending from the locking body (20) and corresponding to the terminal receiving cavity (22) within the electrical connector housing (20). Its features are, The locking body (30) is connected to the assembly (10) by means of a hinge member (40). The first position of the hinge member (40) defines the open state of the terminal position guaranteeing device (1). In the open state, the locking member (32) cannot operate to engage the terminal in the terminal receiving cavity (22). Furthermore, the second position of the hinge member (40) defines the closed state of the terminal position guarantee device (1), in which the locking member (32) can be operated to engage the terminal in the terminal receiving cavity (22).

2. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking body (30) includes a plurality of locking components (32).

3. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking member (32) is a locking tooth.

4. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking member (32) is a locking piece.

5. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The assembly (10) includes a fastening member (50) configured to attach the assembly (10) to the electrical connector housing (20).

6. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fastening member (50) is a latch hook configured to engage with the receiving portion (24) on the electrical connector housing (20).

7. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The locking body (30) includes a closing member (60) configured to secure the hinge member (40) in the second position by engaging with the electrical connector housing (20).

8. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The assembly (10) is configured to be attached to the electrical connector housing (20) via a mating axis (74), and The hinge axis (72) of the hinge member (40) is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the matching axis (74).

9. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The hinge member (40) is a movable hinge such that the assembly (10), the locking body (30) and the hinge member (40) are all made of the same material, preferably plastic.

10. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The at least one locking member (32) corresponds to the terminal receiving cavity (22) such that, in the second position of the hinge member (40), the locking member (32) fills at least 70%, preferably 80%, and more preferably 90% of the unused space in the cavity (22).

11. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, It also includes a detachable support member (80) that connects the locking body (30) to the assembly (10) such that the hinge member (40) is held in the first position, preferably wherein the detachable support member (80) connects the closing member (80) to the assembly (10).

12. The terminal position guarantee device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The assembly (10), the locking body (30), and the detachable support member (80) are molded as single pieces.

13. A kit comprising: Electrical connector (2), the electrical connector having an electrical connector housing (20), the electrical connector housing having at least one terminal receiving cavity (22); as well as The individual terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A component (1000) comprising: Electrical connector (2), the electrical connector having an electrical connector housing (20), the electrical connector housing having at least one terminal receiving cavity (22); as well as At least one terminal position guarantee device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12. The terminal position guarantee device (1) is attached to the electrical connector housing (20).

15. The component according to claim 14, characterized in that, The hinge member (40) of each terminal position guarantee device (1) is in a first position, and the locking body (30) in each terminal position guarantee device (1) is configured to prevent the terminal position guarantee device (1) from moving along the mating axis (74) by contacting the contact point (100) on the electrical connector housing (20).

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