Electrical connector and electrical connector assembly

Abstract

An electrical connector and an electrical connector assembly are described herein. The electrical connector includes a conductive terminal, an insulative terminal housing configured to at least partially house the terminal, and a molded housing configured to at least partially house the terminal housing. The electrical connector further includes a first seal disposed on the terminal and a second seal disposed on the terminal housing. The terminal is configured to be inserted into position within the terminal housing in response to the first seal being disposed on the terminal, and the first seal is compression sealed between the terminal and the terminal housing. The terminal housing is configured to be inserted into position within the molded housing in response to the second seal being disposed on the terminal housing, and the second seal is compression sealed between the terminal housing and the molded housing.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the technical field of electrically conductive connectors, and more particularly, to an electric connector and an electric connector assembly. BACKGROUND

[0002] An electric connector assembly is an electronic component for transmitting and exchanging electric current or signals between electronic system devices. As a node, the electric connector assembly, alone or together with a cable, transmits electric current or signals between devices, components, equipment, systems, and maintains the change of signal distortion and energy loss between systems, and is a necessary basic element for connecting the entire complete system. For example, I / O modules are usually used for connection between switches and switches, and between switches and servers.

[0003] In the prior art, especially in the application of electric connectors in the transmission inverter field, the main structure of the conventional electric connector assembly is usually an electric connector and its assembly structure with a 90-degree bent out-line mode or a 180-degree straight out-line mode. On the one hand, the 90-degree or 180-degree electric connector products of the related art, when used in high-voltage inverter circuits to cooperate with, for example, ATF oil (i.e., automatic transmission fluid) environments, usually need to withstand high voltage and / or large current (and the high operating temperature caused thereby), high vibration, and the need for self-sealing, and such application scenarios have extremely strict performance requirements for product performance. On the other hand, the 90-degree or 180-degree electric connector products of the related art for low-voltage scenarios on the current market usually do not have excellent self-sealing performance for the application environment of transmission inverters, and are prone to ATF leakage. Moreover, the design of similar electric connectors typically uses potting glue composite materials to implement sealing, rather than using an overall sealing structure design, thereby resulting in defects such as high cost and insufficient performance guarantee.

[0004] Therefore, in the prior art, there is an urgent need for an improved 90-degree electric connector and its assembly, which is realized by improving the assembly structure, such as an overall coaxial radial filling type self-sealing design based on a modular combination structure realized by using existing processes, which is suitable for application in a high-voltage environment and meets test requirements such as high vibration and large current, and is suitable for inverter application scenarios with high-voltage circuits with ATF oil. Moreover, the modular design of the structure also facilitates cost reduction, and thereby can also broaden the application field of the electric connector product in the market. SUMMARY

[0005] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an electric connector and its assembly with a simple structure, thereby being able to solve at least one aspect of the above-mentioned problems and defects in the prior art.

[0006] To achieve the above object, the present disclosure realizes the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, an electrical connector is provided, which includes a conductive terminal, an insulative terminal housing configured to at least partially house the terminal, and a mold housing configured to at least partially house the terminal housing. The electrical connector further includes a first seal disposed on the terminal, and a second seal disposed on the terminal housing. The terminal is configured to be axially inserted into the terminal housing in place in response to the first seal being disposed on the terminal, and the first seal is compression sealed between the terminal and the terminal housing. Also, the terminal housing is configured to be inserted into the mold housing in place in response to the second seal being disposed on the terminal housing, and the second seal is compression sealed between the terminal housing and the mold housing.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal housing has a circumferential cylindrical wall defining a hollow axial space open at both ends, and the defined space surrounded by a first circumferential inner surface thereof at least partially houses the terminal; and the mold housing is hollow, and the defined space surrounded by a second circumferential inner surface thereof at least partially houses the terminal housing.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal has a first circumferential groove formed on a first circumferential outer surface of the terminal facing the first circumferential inner surface of the terminal housing, and the first seal is configured to be radially compression sealed between the first circumferential outer surface of the terminal and the first circumferential inner surface of the terminal housing by being snap-fitted into the first circumferential groove; and the terminal housing has a second circumferential groove formed on a second circumferential outer surface of the terminal housing facing the second circumferential inner surface of the mold housing, and the second seal is configured to be radially compression sealed between the second circumferential outer surface of the terminal housing and the second circumferential inner surface of the mold housing by being snap-fitted into the second circumferential groove.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the first circumferential groove and the second circumferential groove are arranged coaxially with each other. Also / or, in an exemplary embodiment, the first seal and the second seal are arranged coaxially with each other.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the terminal includes a first section extending through the terminal housing and exposed to the mold housing from the terminal housing, a second section interposed in the terminal housing, and a third section located at an opposite end from the first section and exposed from the terminal housing.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the first circumferential groove is formed at a portion of the second section adjacent to the third section, and has a cross section that is radially contracted as compared to the third section.

[0013] In a typical exemplary embodiment, the terminal has a pair of first flat surfaces formed on a portion of the second section distal from the third section and spaced apart from the first circumferential groove, the pair of first flat surfaces extending axially and facing each other in a radial direction; and the interior of the terminal housing is formed with a pair of flat lands projecting radially inward from the first circumferential inner surface, the pair of flat lands facing each other in the radial direction and adapted to abut against the pair of first flat surfaces, respectively.

[0014] In a further exemplary embodiment, straight linear protrusions extending axially in parallel are formed on the pair of flat lands for frictional contact with the pair of first flat surfaces, and the pair of flat lands and the pair of first flat surfaces are configured to cooperate with each other using the frictional contact to perform axial alignment and axial guidance for movement of the terminal into the terminal housing.

[0015] In a still further exemplary embodiment, the terminal housing further has a protrusion extending radially inward from the first circumferential inner surface of the terminal housing and at least partially circumferentially arranged, and the terminal further has an annular third circumferential groove formed between the first section and the second section and adapted to accommodate the protrusion; and the terminal is seated in the terminal housing by the protrusion being snap-fitted into the third circumferential groove in response to the terminal being inserted axially into the terminal housing.

[0016] In an alternative typical exemplary embodiment, the terminal housing further has a radial ridge extending inward from the circumferential cylindrical wall, and a plurality of cantilever members extending axially from an annular end face of the radial ridge distal from the die cast housing toward the third section, the plurality of cantilever members being circumferentially spaced apart from each other and being respectively radially deflectable.

[0017] In a further exemplary embodiment, the terminal further has a circumferential snap groove formed on the second section between the first circumferential groove and the third section and adapted to frictionally contact respective free ends of the plurality of cantilever members.

[0018] In a still further exemplary embodiment, the terminal is seated in the terminal housing by the plurality of cantilever members respectively frictionally contacting and abutting against an inner wall of the circumferential snap groove of the second section with respective free ends in response to the terminal being inserted axially into the terminal housing.

[0019] In an example embodiment, each cantilevered member has an inverted T-shaped cross-section along a radial direction.

[0020] In an example embodiment, the terminal shell further has a first tab extending axially from a portion of a circumferential edge of the terminal shell at a distal end thereof facing away from the terminal, the first tab having a sector ring-shaped cross-section.

[0021] In an example embodiment, the mold casting shell further has: two first limiting features protruding radially inwardly from the second circumferential inner surface and spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction, the two first limiting features being adapted to hold and limit the first tab therebetween in the circumferential direction and configured to cooperatively guide the first tab to be inserted axially into the mold casting shell and to act as circumferential limiters against rotation of the first tab in the circumferential direction; and a second limiting feature protruding radially inwardly from an inner side of the mold casting shell and at least partially arranged in the circumferential direction, located at a distal end of the two first limiting features facing away from the terminal, the second limiting feature acting as an axial stopper for the first tab inserted axially into the mold casting shell.

[0022] In an example embodiment, the terminal shell is inserted into the mold casting shell in position by the first tab being snap-fitted between the two first limiting features until being blocked by the second limiting feature in response to the terminal shell being inserted axially into the mold casting shell.

[0023] In an example embodiment, the terminal shell further has a second tab extending axially from a portion of a circumferential edge of the terminal shell at a distal end thereof facing away from the terminal, the second tab being diametrically opposite to the first tab and having a sector ring-shaped cross-section.

[0024] In an example embodiment, the mold casting shell further has an axial recess recessed partially from the second circumferential inner surface in a radial direction, the axial recess extending axially away from the terminal shell from a circumferential edge at an end of the mold casting shell facing the terminal shell, and the axial recess being adapted to receive the second tab.

[0025] In an example embodiment, the electrical connector further comprises at least one high-voltage interlock terminal arranged to extend through a passage embedded in a portion of the circumferential edge of the terminal shell axially aligned with the second tab.

[0026] In an example embodiment, the electrical connector further comprises at least one third seal, each third seal being sleeved on a respective high-voltage interlock terminal and being pressed to seal between an outer surface of the respective high-voltage interlock terminal and an inner surface of the passage.

[0027] In an example embodiment, the second tab extends a shorter length axially away from the terminal than the first tab.

[0028] In an example embodiment, the terminal housing further has a radially outwardly extending ledge between an end of the terminal housing facing away from the mold cast housing and the second circumferential groove, and the ledge is axially aligned with the first tab.

[0029] In a second aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure provides an electrical connector assembly comprising at least two electrical connectors according to the foregoing, the mold cast housings of the at least two electrical connectors being integrally formed together. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this specification, illustrate certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

[0031] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate a schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view, respectively, of an example 180-degree electrical connector according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B illustrate a schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view, respectively, of an example 90-degree electrical connector according to another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 3 illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal in a 180-degree electrical connector as FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal in a 180-degree electrical connector as

[0034] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 180-degree electrical connector as FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 180-degree electrical connector as

[0035] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate a schematic perspective view of a mold cast housing in a 180-degree electrical connector as FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate a schematic perspective view of a mold cast housing in a 180-degree electrical connector as

[0036] FIG. 6 illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal in a 90-degree electrical connector as FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal in a 90-degree electrical connector as

[0037] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C illustrate a schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 90-degree electrical connector asFIG. 2A and FIG. 2B schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 90-degree electrical connector shown in FIGS.

[0038] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 90-degree electrical connector shown in FIGS. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 90-degree electrical connector shown in FIGS.

[0039] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view, respectively, of a 180-degree electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view, respectively, of a 90-degree electrical connector assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The present disclosure will now be described in detail by way of specific illustrative examples thereof. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather serve as an illustrative example thereof. It should be noted that the following drawings and examples are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure to a single embodiment, but rather other embodiments are possible by virtue of the interchangeability of some or all of the described or illustrated elements. Moreover, where certain elements of this disclosure can be partially or fully implemented using known components, only those portions of such known components that are necessary for an understanding of the present disclosure will be described, and detailed descriptions of other portions of such known components will be omitted so as not to obscure the disclosure. Embodiments described as being implemented in software should not be limited thereto, but can include embodiments implemented in hardware, or combinations of software and hardware, and vice versa, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, unless otherwise specified herein. In the present specification, an embodiment showing a single component should not be considered to be limiting; rather, the present disclosure is intended to encompass other embodiments including a plurality of the same component, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. Furthermore, applicants do not intend to be bound by any theory presented in this specification regarding the mode of operation of the disclosure. Moreover, the present disclosure encompasses present and future known equivalents to the known components referred to herein by way of illustration.

[0042] Unless otherwise specified, "bottom" and "top", "upper" and "lower", and the like terms as used in the content of the present disclosure are relative concepts. Also, "corresponding" or "corresponding" as used in the content of the present disclosure refers to the corresponding relationship between the parts used in pairs and working together.

[0043] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate a schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view, respectively, of an exemplary 180-degree electrical connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B illustrate a schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view, respectively, of an exemplary 90-degree electrical connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] In an aspect of the present disclosure, in accordance with a general inventive concept of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical connector comprising: an electrically conductive terminal; an electrically insulative terminal housing configured to at least partially house the terminal; and a mold housing configured to at least partially house the terminal housing. The electrical connector further comprises: a first sealant sleeved on the terminal; and a second sealant sleeved on the terminal housing. The terminal is configured to be axially inserted into the terminal housing in place in response to the first sealant being sleeved on the terminal, and the first sealant is compression sealed between the terminal and the terminal housing. Also, the terminal housing is configured to be inserted into the mold housing in place in response to the second sealant being sleeved on the terminal housing, and the second sealant is compression sealed between the terminal housing and the mold housing.

[0045] As a specific exemplary embodiment, for example as shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B there is provided an exemplary 180-degree electrical connector 1 comprising: an electrically conductive terminal 10; an electrically insulative terminal housing 20 configured to at least partially house the terminal 10; and a mold housing 30 configured to at least partially house the terminal housing 20. The electrical connector 1 further comprises: a first sealant 41 sleeved on the terminal 10; and a second sealant 42 sleeved on the terminal housing 20. The terminal 10 is configured to be axially inserted into the terminal housing 20 in place in response to the first sealant 41 being sleeved on the terminal 10, and the first sealant 41 is compression sealed between the terminal 10 and the terminal housing 20. Also, the terminal housing 20 is configured to be inserted into the mold housing 30 in place in response to the second sealant 42 being sleeved on the terminal housing 20, and the second sealant 42 is compression sealed between the terminal housing 20 and the mold housing 30.

[0046] As an alternative exemplary embodiment, for example as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2BAs shown, there is provided an exemplary 90-degree electrical connector 1, comprising: an electrically conductive terminal 50; an insulative terminal housing 60 configured to at least partially house the terminal 50; and a molded housing 70 configured to at least partially house the terminal housing 60. The electrical connector 1 further comprises: a first seal 81 fitted on the terminal 50; and a second seal 82 fitted on the terminal housing 60. The terminal 50 is configured to be axially inserted into the terminal housing 60 in place in response to the first seal 81 being fitted on the terminal 50, and the first seal 81 is compression sealed between the terminal 50 and the terminal housing 60. Also, the terminal housing 60 is configured to be inserted into the molded housing 70 in place in response to the second seal 82 being fitted on the terminal housing 60, and the second seal 82 is compression sealed between the terminal housing 60 and the molded housing 70.

[0047] Thus, based on such an arrangement, whereby between the terminal, the terminal housing and the molded housing successively arranged such as from inside to outside, for example, the first seal fitted on the innermost terminal is utilized to compression seal between the terminal and the terminal housing; and then the second seal fitted on the intermediate terminal housing is utilized to compression seal between the terminal housing and the molded housing, thereby facilitating the realization of superior self-sealing performance in electrical connectors such as 90-degree electrical connectors and 180-degree electrical connectors, and the resistance to high voltage and / or large current and the high operating temperature caused thereby, avoiding ATF oil leakage and the problem of ATF oil not being resistant to high temperature. Also, such self-sealing of the electrical connector realized by means of existing processes can be substantially regarded as a unitary sealing structure, effectively controlling the cost under the premise of fully ensuring the sealing effectiveness, and without the need to use potting adhesive composite material. In addition, it is also convenient for vibration damping and / or vibration isolation of the electrical connector in the working environment of high-vibration working conditions.

[0048] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, the terminal housing has a circumferential columnar wall defining a hollow axial space open at both ends, and the defined space surrounded by a first circumferential inner surface thereof at least partially houses the terminal; and the molded housing is hollow, and the defined space surrounded by a second circumferential inner surface thereof at least partially houses the terminal housing.

[0049] As a specific exemplary embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 1B As shown, the terminal housing 20 has a circumferential columnar wall 23 defining a hollow axial space 22 open at both ends, whereby the terminal housing 20 is hollow columnar, and the defined space surrounded by a first circumferential inner surface 201 thereof at least partially houses the terminal 10; and the molded housing 30 is hollow, and the defined space surrounded by a second circumferential inner surface 301 thereof at least partially houses the terminal housing 20.

[0050] As an alternative exemplary embodiment, for example as FIG. 2B illustrated, the terminal housing 60 is provided with a circumferential cylindrical wall 63 defining a hollow axial space 62 open at both ends, whereby the terminal housing 60 is hollow cylindrical and the defined space enclosed by its first circumferential inner surface 601 at least partially accommodates the terminal 50; and the mold housing 70 is hollow and the defined space enclosed by its second circumferential inner surface 701 at least partially accommodates the terminal housing 60. More specifically, for example, the mold housing 70 itself comprises two portions orthogonal to each other and communicating, namely a hollow first mold housing 70 section extending along a vertical parallel to the axial and a hollow second mold housing 70 section extending along a transverse perpendicular to the vertical, whereby the mold housing can at least partially accommodate the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its second circumferential inner surface 701 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section (more specifically, for example, the entire inner surface area within the first mold housing 70 section and the partial inner surface area within the second mold housing 70 section respectively enclose portions of the defined space).

[0051] With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 1B illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within the first mold housing 70 section. FIG. 2B With such an arrangement, for example as illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within the second mold housing 70 section.

[0052] FIG. 3 With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 1A illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section. FIG. 1B With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section. FIG. 1A With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 1B illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section. FIG. 5A With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 5B illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section. FIG. 1A With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 1B illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section.

[0053] With such an arrangement, for example as FIG. 3 illustrated, the terminal 50 is accommodated in the terminal housing 60 with the portion of the defined space enclosed by the inner surface area of its first circumferential inner surface 601 within both the first mold housing 70 section and the second mold housing 70 section. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4CAs shown, for example, the terminal 10 is provided with an annular first circumferential groove 102 formed on a first circumferential outer surface 101 of the terminal 10 facing the first circumferential inner surface 201 of the terminal housing 20, and the first seal 41 is configured to fill a first annular gap between the first circumferential outer surface 101 and the first circumferential inner surface 201 in a radial direction by being pressed and sealed therebetween with a snap-fit into the first circumferential groove 102. Also, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B As shown, for example, the terminal housing 20 is provided with an annular second circumferential groove 203 formed on a second circumferential outer surface 202 of the terminal housing 20 facing the second circumferential inner surface 301 of the die casting housing 30, and the second seal 42 is configured to fill a second annular gap between the second circumferential outer surface 202 and the second circumferential inner surface 301 in a radial direction by being pressed and sealed therebetween with a snap-fit into the second circumferential groove 203. Thereby, with such an arrangement, a radial filling type overall self-sealing design of the 90-degree electrical connector 1 is achieved based on a modular combination structure, facilitating effective avoidance of, for example, leakage and influence on electrical connection.

[0054] In further embodiments, as an example, the first circumferential groove 102 and the second circumferential groove 203 are arranged coaxially with each other. And / or, further, for example, the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are arranged coaxially with each other.

[0055] FIG. 6 Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a terminal in a 90-degree electrical connector as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B Fig. 2 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 90-degree electrical connector as shown in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C Fig. 3 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a die casting housing in a 90-degree electrical connector as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B Fig. 4 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a terminal housing in a 90-degree electrical connector as shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B Fig. 5 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a die casting housing in a 90-degree electrical connector as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B Fig. 6 illustrates a schematic perspective view of a die casting housing in a 90-degree electrical connector as shown in

[0056] According to alternative exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as FIG. 6 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7CAs shown, for example, the terminal 50 is provided with an annular first circumferential groove 502 formed on a first circumferential outer surface 501 of the terminal 50 facing the first circumferential inner surface 601 of the terminal housing 60, and the first seal 81 is configured to fill a first annular gap between the first circumferential outer surface 501 and the first circumferential inner surface 601 in a radial direction by being pressed and sealed therebetween with a snap-fit into the first circumferential groove 502. Also, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C and FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B As shown, for example, the terminal housing 60 is provided with an annular second circumferential groove 603 formed on a second circumferential outer surface 602 of the terminal housing 60 facing the second circumferential inner surface 701 of the die casting housing 70, and the second seal 82 is configured to fill a second annular gap between the second circumferential outer surface 602 and the second circumferential inner surface 701 in a radial direction by being pressed and sealed therebetween with a snap-fit into the second circumferential groove 603. Thereby, with such an arrangement, a radial filling type overall self-sealing design of the 180-degree electrical connector 1 is achieved based on a modular combination structure, facilitating effective avoidance of, for example, leakage and impact on electrical connection.

[0057] In further embodiments, as an example, the first circumferential groove 502 and the second circumferential groove 603 are arranged coaxially with each other. And further, for example, the first seal 81 and the second seal 82 are arranged coaxially with each other.

[0058] Thereby, based on the above arrangement, an overall coaxial radial filling type self-sealing design of the 90-degree electrical connector and the 180-degree electrical connector as above is achieved based on a modular combination structure, which is particularly suitable for reducing the impact of external vibration in a high-vibration working environment, facilitating reliable overall self-sealing against vibration impact. And, effective avoidance of, for example, leakage and impact on electrical connection is facilitated.

[0059] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, referring back to FIG. 3 , for example, the terminal 10 includes a first section 11 extending through the terminal housing 20 and exposed from the terminal housing 20 into the die casting housing 30, a second section 12 interposed within the terminal housing 20, and a third section 13 located at an opposite end from the first section 11 and exposed from the terminal housing 20.

[0060] In further exemplary embodiments, as FIG. 3As shown as a specific example, the first circumferential groove 102 is formed at a portion of the second section 12 adjacent to the third section 13, and has a cross section that is radially contracted compared to the third section 13, for receiving and holding in place the first seal 41 in the first circumferential groove 102.

[0061] Further, as a typical example embodiment, for example as FIG. 3 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C shown, the terminal 10 is provided with a pair of first flat surfaces 103 formed on a portion of the second section 12 distal from the third section 13 and spaced apart from the first circumferential groove 102, the pair of first flat surfaces 103 extending axially and facing each other in the radial direction; and the interior of the terminal housing 20 is formed with a pair of flat tops 204 protruding radially inward from the first circumferential inner surface 201, facing each other in the radial direction, adapted to respectively abut against the pair of first flat surfaces 103.

[0062] Correspondingly, as an example, as FIG. 3 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C shown, the pair of flat tops 204 are formed with straight linear protrusions 205 extending axially in parallel for frictional contact with the pair of first flat surfaces 103, and the pair of flat tops 204 and the pair of first flat surfaces 103 are configured to work in cooperation with each other by means of the frictional contact to perform axial alignment and axial guidance on the movement of the terminal 10 inserted into the terminal housing 20.

[0063] With this arrangement, the pair of flat tops 204 and the pair of first flat surfaces 103 are effectively made to work in cooperation with each other by means of the frictional contact therebetween, thereby performing axial alignment and axial guidance on the movement of the terminal 10 inserted into the terminal housing 20, so that the alignment between the terminal 10 and the terminal housing 20 and the guiding function of the relative movement of the two are effectively achieved under the guidance of the pair of flat tops 204, especially the axially linear protrusions 205 additionally provided thereon, avoiding the unintended rotation of the terminal 10 during the insertion into the terminal housing 20.

[0064] In further example embodiments, as FIG. 3 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 4CAs a specific example, as shown, the terminal housing 20 is further provided with a protrusion 206 extending radially inwardly from the first circumferential inner surface 201 of the terminal housing 20 and arranged at least partially in the circumferential direction, and the terminal 10 is further provided with a third circumferential groove 104 formed between the first section 11 and the second section 12 and adapted to accommodate the protrusion 206; and the terminal 10 is inserted in place within the terminal housing 20 by the protrusion 206 being snap-fitted into the third circumferential groove 104 in response to the terminal 10 being axially inserted into the terminal housing 20. Also, in further embodiments, as an example, once the terminal 10 is inserted in place within the terminal housing 20, the aforementioned first seal is pressed into sealing between the terminal and the terminal housing.

[0065] Thus, with this arrangement, the terminal 10 is prevented from being accidentally withdrawn (e.g. due to external vibration or an unintended outwardly pulling force acting on the tail portion of the terminal 10) with the terminal 10 being inserted in place during insertion into the terminal housing 20, specifically by means of the protrusion 206 provided on the inside surface of the terminal housing 20 being snap-fitted into the third circumferential groove 104, to function as a retreat stop.

[0066] According to alternative exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, referring back to FIG. 6 , for example, the terminal 50 includes a first section 51 extending through the terminal housing 60 and exposed into the mold casing 70 from the terminal housing 60, a second section 52 interposed within the terminal housing 60, and a third section 53 located at an opposite end from the first section 51 and exposed from the terminal housing 60.

[0067] In further exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6 As a specific example, the first circumferential groove 502 is formed at a portion of the second section 52 adjacent to the third section 53 and has a cross-section that is radially constricted as compared to the third section 53 for receiving and retaining the first seal 81 in place in the first circumferential groove 502.

[0068] Further, as exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C The terminal housing 60 is further provided with a radial ridge 604 extending inwardly from the circumferential cylindrical wall 63, and a plurality of cantilever members 605 extending axially from an annular end surface of the radial ridge 604 facing away from the mold casing 70 towards the third section 53, the plurality of cantilever members 605 being circumferentially spaced apart from each other and being respectively radially inwardly deflectable.

[0069] Accordingly, as an example, as shown inFIG. 6 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C As shown, the terminal 50 further has a circumferential engagement groove 503 formed on the second section 52 between the first circumferential groove 502 and the third section 53, adapted to frictionally contact respective free ends of the plurality of cantilever members 605.

[0070] In further exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C As a specific example, the terminal 50 is inserted into the terminal housing 60 in place by the plurality of cantilever members 605 respectively frictionally contacting and abutting against inner walls of the circumferential engagement groove 503 of the second section 52 with respective free ends in response to the terminal 50 being axially inserted into the terminal housing 60. And, in further embodiments, as an example, once the terminal 50 is axially inserted into the terminal housing 60 in place, the aforementioned first seal is achieved to be abutted and sealed between the terminal and the terminal housing.

[0071] With this arrangement, based on the plurality of cantilever members 605 extending axially from the annular end face of the radial ridge 604 facing away from the mold shell 70 and respectively flexing radially inward (more specifically, each free end flexing by bending radially inward), and circumferentially spaced apart (more preferably, for example, uniformly spaced apart), during insertion of the terminal 50 into the terminal housing 60, particularly in the case of the terminal 50 being inserted into place during insertion into the terminal housing 60, the plurality of cantilever beams effectively achieve to frictionally contact and abut against inner walls of the circumferential engagement groove 503 of the second section 52 with respective flexed free ends, thereby securely and reliably engaging the terminal 50 within the circumferential engagement groove 503, avoiding accidental withdrawal of the terminal 50 (for example, due to external vibration or force acting on the tail of the terminal 50), playing a role of a retreat stop.

[0072] As a specific example, as shown in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B As a specific example, as shown in

[0073] In exemplary embodiments, for example, the plurality of cantilever beams each having an inverted T-shaped cross-section are arranged eccentrically with respect to the terminal 50 to be inserted, for example the plurality of cantilever members 605 are also arranged eccentrically with respect to the peripheral cylindrical wall 63, such that the terminal 50 exerts a greater force on a portion of the plurality of cantilever beams at the initial stage of insertion, and as the insertion process proceeds, the force exerted by the terminal 50 is gradually distributed evenly to the plurality of cantilever beams, for example preferably arranged evenly in the circumferential direction, thereby achieving uniform distribution of the force of the terminal 50 being inserted on the inner surface of the terminal housing 60.

[0074] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C shown, for example, the terminal housing 20 further has a first tab 207 extending axially from a portion of the peripheral edge of the terminal housing 20 distal from the terminal 10, the first tab 207 having a fan ring-shaped cross-section.

[0075] Accordingly, as an example, as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B shown, the mold casting housing 30 further has: two first limiting features 302, for example in the form of protrusions, protruding radially inwardly from the second peripheral inner surface 301 and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, the two first limiting features 302 being adapted to hold and limit the first tab 207 therebetween in the circumferential direction, and configured to guide the first tab 207 in cooperation with each other to be inserted axially into the mold casting housing 30 and to act as a circumferential limiter against rotation of the first tab 207 in the circumferential direction; and a second limiting feature 303, for example protruding radially inwardly from the inside of the mold casting housing 30 and at least partially arranged in the circumferential direction, and located distal from the terminal 10 at the distal end of the two first limiting features 302, the second limiting feature 303 acting as an axial stop for the first tab 207 to be inserted axially into the mold casting housing 30.

[0076] In further exemplary embodiments, as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B shown as a specific example, the terminal housing 20 is inserted into the mold casting housing 30 in place by the first tab 207 being snap-fitted between the two first limiting features 302 until being blocked by the second limiting feature 303 in response to the terminal housing 20 being inserted axially into the mold casting housing 30. And, in further embodiments, as an example, once the terminal housing 20 is inserted into the mold casting housing 30 in place in the axial direction, the aforementioned second seal is achieved to be pressed and sealed between the terminal housing and the mold casting housing.

[0077] By this arrangement, the two limiting features provided on the inner surface of the mold casting shell 30, for example in the form of protrusions, are used to limit the first tabs 207 circumferentially therebetween, thereby achieving a constraint on the insertion of the first tabs 207, and thereby further achieving a guiding action on the insertion movement of the terminal shell 20 relative to the mold casting shell 30, facilitating a smooth and unobstructed directional insertion without the presence of an unintended deviation of the terminal shell 20, and also avoiding an unintended rotation of the terminal shell 20 during the insertion into the mold casting shell 30, thereby achieving an anti-rotation stop action.

[0078] Further, as an example, for example as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B the surface of the first tabs 207 is also provided, for example, with a concave-convex structure, and correspondingly, in the counterpart electrical connector 1 to be mated with the electrical connector 1, for example, on the part or site to be engaged with the first tabs 207, a counterpart concave-convex structure is also correspondingly provided for forming a form fit with the concave-convex structure, to achieve a fool-proof function to prevent incorrect assembly.

[0079] Also, according to additional or alternative exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C for example, the terminal shell 20 is also provided with a second tab 208 extending axially from a portion of the circumferential edge of the terminal shell 20 distal from the terminal 10, the second tab 208 being diametrically opposite to the first tab 207 and having a fan ring cross-section.

[0080] Correspondingly, as an example, as shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B the mold casting shell 30 is also provided with an axial recess 304 recessed radially partially from the second circumferential inner surface 301, the axial recess 304 extending axially away from the terminal shell 20 from the circumferential edge at the end of the mold casting shell 30 facing the terminal shell 20, and the axial recess 304 is adapted to receive the second tab 208.

[0081] By this arrangement, the axial recess 304 provided on the inner surface of the mold casting shell 30 is used to limit the second tab 208 circumferentially in the circumferential recess, thereby also achieving a constraint on the insertion of the second tab 208, and thereby further achieving a guiding action on the insertion movement of the terminal shell 20 relative to the mold casting shell 30, facilitating a smooth and unobstructed directional insertion without the presence of an unintended deviation of the terminal shell 20, and also avoiding an unintended rotation of the terminal shell 20 during the insertion into the mold casting shell 30, thereby achieving an anti-rotation stop action.

[0082] Further, as an example, for example as shown inFIG. 4A and FIG. 4B As shown, the surface of the second tab 208 is also provided with a second convex-concave structure, for example, and correspondingly, the counterpart electrical connector 1 to be mated with the electrical connector 1 is also provided with a second counterpart convex-concave structure on the part or portion to be engaged with the second tab 208 for forming a shape fit with the second convex-concave structure to achieve a fool-proof function of preventing mis-assembly.

[0083] In further embodiments, by way of example, reference is made to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B In the 180-degree electrical connector 1, the electrical connector 1 further comprises at least one high-voltage interlock (HVIL) terminal 10 arranged to extend through a channel 209 embedded in a portion of the second tab 208 and a circumferential edge of the terminal housing 20 axially aligned with the second tab 208.

[0084] Further, by way of example, the electrical connector 1 further comprises at least one third seal 43 each being sleeved on a respective high-voltage interlock terminal 91 and being pressed and sealed between an outer surface of the respective high-voltage interlock terminal 91 and an inner surface of the channel 209.

[0085] With such an arrangement, effective sealing is also achieved for the high-voltage interlock (HVIL) terminal 10, thereby further ensuring reliable overall self-sealing for the 180-degree electrical connector 1.

[0086] In further exemplary embodiments, reference is made to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C By way of specific example, the second tab 208 extends axially away from the terminals 10 for a length shorter than the first tab 207. Such an arrangement is due to the HVIL terminals 10 being arranged to be embedded in the second tab 208 for mating engagement with the part or portion of the counterpart electrical connector 1 to be engaged with the second tab 208, and thus the second tab 208 has a relatively smaller strength compared to the first tab 207, whereby the first tab 207 serves as the main guide for the insertion of the terminal housing 20 into the mold casing 30, and the second tab 208 serves as an auxiliary guide.

[0087] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B For example, the terminal housing 20 is further provided with a radially outwardly extending boss 210 between an end of the terminal housing 20 away from the mold casing 30 and the second circumferential groove 203, and the boss 210 is axially aligned with the first tab 207.

[0088] With this arrangement, the terminal housing 20, in the event of insertion of the mold casting housing 30 in place, also provides an additional stop at the end of the terminal housing 20 facing away from the direction of the insertion movement towards the mold casting housing 30, acting to prevent insertion of the terminal housing 20 beyond the permissible stroke during the assembly process, such a boss 210 can essentially act as a stroke limiter to avoid excessive insertion of the terminal housing 20 into the mold casting housing 30 to cause unintended internal compression within the electrical connector 1. And since the boss 210 is aligned with the first tab 207, the first tab 207 acts as a guide for the front end of the terminal housing 20, and the boss 210 acts as a stroke limiter for the rear end of the terminal housing 20, both of which cooperate with each other to ensure the function of accurate stroke control in the axial direction of the first tab 207 and the tab.

[0089] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 3 for example, the third section 13 is provided with a threaded hole 105 for mounting the electrical connector 1 in place by threaded connection therethrough. This achieves the connection and fixation of the electrical connector 1 in the field of use.

[0090] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 1A , FIG. 1B and FIG. 3 for example, the electrical connector 1 further comprises an insulating protective cover 92 screwed to the free end of the first section 11 of the terminal 10. The electrical insulating property of the protective cover 92 ensures that when a user's finger is inserted through both the mold casting housing 30 and the terminal housing 20 and contacts the protective cover 92, direct contact and unintended conductive connection of the finger with the terminal 10 are avoided, thereby meeting the direct contact protection requirements specified in GB 18384-2020 "Safety Requirements for Electric Vehicles", preventing direct contact of the finger with the metal terminal 10 and avoiding injury caused thereby.

[0091] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, for example in the mold casting housing 30 of a 180-degree electrical connector 1 as shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B , the mold casting housing 30 has a first flange portion 305 protruding laterally outward around the circumference of its outer side, for example for dividing the electrical connector 1 into an insertion side for mating with a mating electrical connector 1 and an opposite mounting side for mounting to a device, and for example has a rectangular or square cross-section as shown for mounting the electrical connector 1. As an example, the first flange portion 305 is provided with a plurality of threaded holes 105 for achieving mounting by threaded connection. As an example, a planar annular face seal 31 is formed on the first flange portion 305.

[0092] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, for example in the mold casting housing 30 of a 180-degree electrical connector 1 as shown inFIG. 8A and FIG. 8B In the mold casting shell 70 of the 90-degree electrical connector 1 shown, the mold casting shell 70 has a second flange portion 702 protruding laterally outwardly around the outside thereof in the circumferential direction, for example for dividing the electrical connector 1 into a plug-in side for plugging in a counter electrical connector 1 and an opposite mounting side for mounting to a device, and for example has a rectangular or square cross section as shown for mounting the electrical connector 1. As an example, the second flange portion 702 has a plurality of threaded holes for enabling mounting by means of a threaded connection. As an example, a planar ring-like face seal 71 is formed on the second flange portion 702.

[0093] Based on the above-described electrical connectors such as the 180-degree electrical connector and the 90-degree electrical connector, the following superior technical effects over the prior art solutions in the field can be achieved:

[0094] Based on the structure and assembly arrangement of such electrical connectors, for example the overall coaxial radially filled self-sealing design based on the modular combination structure realized by using the existing process, is suitable for application in a high-voltage environment, and meets the test requirements such as high vibration, large current, etc., and is suitable for inverter application scenarios of high-voltage circuits with ATF oil. Moreover, the modular design of the structure also facilitates cost reduction, and thus can also broaden the application field of the electrical connector product in the market.

[0095] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B respectively show a schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view of a 180-degree electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B respectively show a schematic perspective view and a schematic exploded view of a 90-degree electrical connector assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] In another aspect of the present disclosure, according to a general technical concept of the present disclosure, for example as shown, there is also provided an electrical connector assembly, comprising at least two electrical connectors according to the foregoing, the mold casting shells of the at least two electrical connectors are integrally formed together.

[0097] As a specific exemplary embodiment, for example as shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B there is provided an exemplary electrical connector assembly 2, comprising at least two 180-degree electrical connectors 1 according to the foregoing, the mold casting shells 30 of the at least two electrical connectors 1 are integrally formed together.

[0098] In an exemplary embodiment, as an example, for instance as shown in the figures, the electrical connector assembly 2 is provided with three of the aforementioned 180-degree electrical connectors 1 side by side, and their respective first flange portions 305 are integrally coupled or integrally formed with each other. Accordingly, the planar ring face seals 31 on the respective first flange portions 305 of the three aforementioned 180-degree electrical connectors are collectively formed as a single closed ring face seal.

[0099] In an exemplary embodiment, as an example, for instance as shown in the figures, the high-voltage interlock terminals of the three aforementioned 180-degree electrical connectors are electrically connected with each other.

[0100] As an alternative exemplary embodiment, for instance as FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B shown, an exemplary electrical connector assembly 2 is provided, which comprises at least two of the aforementioned 90-degree electrical connectors 1, the respective mold casing shells 70 of which are collectively integrally formed.

[0101] In an exemplary embodiment, as an example, for instance as shown in the figures, the electrical connector assembly 2 is provided with three of the aforementioned 90-degree electrical connectors 1 side by side, and their respective first flange portions are integrally coupled or integrally formed with each other. Accordingly, the planar ring face seals 71 on the respective second flange portions 702 of the three aforementioned 90-degree electrical connectors are collectively formed as a single closed ring face seal.

[0102] And, the electrical connector assembly provided in consideration of another aspect of the present disclosure comprises the aforementioned electrical connector, thereby also having the advantages of the aforementioned electrical connector, which will not be described herein again.

[0103] The above description of the electrical connector, the electrical connector assembly of the respective schemes in the aforementioned embodiments of the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Although the present disclosure is illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the embodiments disclosed in the drawings are intended to exemplarily illustrate the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and cannot be understood as a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0104] Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described embodiments are exemplary, and those skilled in the art can make improvements, and the structures described in various embodiments can be modified and freely combined without structural or principle conflicts, which shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.

[0105] The breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be limited only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0106] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. Additionally, any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An electrical connector (1) comprising: a conductive terminal (10, 50); an insulative terminal housing (20, 60) configured to at least partially house the terminal; and a mold housing (30, 70) configured to at least partially house the terminal housing, characterized in that the electrical connector further comprises: a first seal (41, 81) fitted over the terminal (10, 50); and a second seal (42, 82) fitted over the terminal housing (20, 60), the terminal is configured to be axially inserted into place within the terminal housing in response to the first seal being fitted over the terminal, and the first seal is compression sealed between the terminal and the terminal housing; and the terminal housing is configured to be inserted into place within the mold housing in response to the second seal being fitted over the terminal housing, and the second seal is compression sealed between the terminal housing and the mold housing.

2. The electrical connector according to claim 1, characterized in that the terminal housing (20, 60) has a circumferential cylindrical wall (23, 63) defining a hollow axial space (22, 62) open at both ends, and the defined space is at least partially housed the terminal (10, 50) with a first circumferential inner surface (201, 601) thereof; and the mold housing (30, 70) is hollow, and the defined space is at least partially housed the terminal housing (20, 60) with a second circumferential inner surface (301, 701) thereof.

3. The electrical connector according to claim 2, characterized in that the terminal (10, 50) has an annular first circumferential groove (102, 502) formed on a first circumferential outer surface (101, 501) of the terminal (10, 50) facing the first circumferential inner surface (201, 601) of the terminal housing (20, 60), and the first seal (41, 81) is configured to be radially compression sealed between the first circumferential outer surface (101, 501) of the terminal (10, 50) and the first circumferential inner surface (201, 601) of the terminal housing (20, 60) by being snap-fitted into the first circumferential groove (102, 502); and the terminal housing (20, 60) has an annular second circumferential groove (203, 603) formed on a second circumferential outer surface (202, 602) of the terminal housing (20, 60) facing the second circumferential inner surface (301, 701) of the mold housing (30, 70), and the second seal (42, 82) is configured to be radially compression sealed between the second circumferential outer surface (202, 602) of the terminal housing (20, 60) and the second circumferential inner surface (301, 701) of the mold housing (30, 70) by being snap-fitted into the second circumferential groove (203, 603). ​ 4. The electrical connector of claim 3, wherein, the first circumferential groove (102, 502) and the second circumferential groove (203, 603) are arranged coaxially with each other; and / or the first seal (41, 81) and the second seal (42, 82) are arranged coaxially with each other.

5. The electrical connector of claim 3, wherein, the terminal (10, 50) comprises: a first section (11, 51) extending through the terminal shell (20, 60) and exposed from the terminal shell (20, 60) into the mold casing (30, 70); a second section (12, 52) interposed within the terminal shell (20, 60); and a third section (13, 53) located at an opposite end of the first section (11, 51) and exposed from the terminal shell (20, 60).

6. The electrical connector of claim 5, wherein, the first circumferential groove (102, 502) is formed at a portion of the second section (12) adjacent to the third section (13, 53) and has a cross section that is radially contracted compared to the third section (13, 53).

7. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the terminal (10) has a pair of first flat surfaces (103) formed on a portion of the second section (12) distanced from the third section (13) and spaced apart from the first circumferential groove (102), the pair of first flat surfaces (103) extending axially and facing each other in the radial direction; and an interior of the terminal shell (20) is formed with a pair of flat lands (204) radially facing each other and protruding radially inwardly from the first circumferential inner surface (201), the pair of flat lands (204) being adapted to abut against the pair of first flat surfaces (103) respectively.

8. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the pair of flat lands (204) is formed with straight protrusions (205) extending parallel in the axial direction for frictional contact with the pair of first flat surfaces (103), and the pair of flat lands (204) and the pair of first flat surfaces (103) are configured to cooperate with each other by means of the frictional contact to perform axial alignment and axial guidance of the movement of the terminal (10) into the terminal shell (20).

9. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the terminal shell (20) further has a protrusion (206) extending radially inwardly from the first circumferential inner surface (201) of the terminal shell (20) and at least partially arranged in the circumferential direction, and the terminal (10) further has an annular third circumferential groove (104) formed between the first section (11) and the second section (12) and adapted to accommodate the protrusion (206), and the terminal (10) is inserted into place within the terminal shell (20) by the protrusion (206) being snap-fitted into the third circumferential groove (104) in response to the terminal (10) being axially inserted into the terminal shell (20).

10. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that The terminal housing (60) further has radially protruding ridges (604) extending inwardly from the circumferential cylindrical wall (603), and a plurality of cantilever members (605) extending axially from annular end faces of the radially protruding ridges (604) facing away from the mold casting housing (70) towards the third section (53), the plurality of cantilever members (605) being circumferentially spaced apart from each other and being respectively radially inwardly flexible.

11. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that The terminal (50) further has a circumferential engagement groove (503) formed on the second section (52) between the first circumferential groove (502) and the third section (53), adapted to frictionally contact respective free ends of the plurality of cantilever members (605).

12. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that The terminal (50) is inserted in place within the terminal housing (60) by the plurality of cantilever members (605) respectively frictionally contacting and abutting against inner walls of the circumferential engagement groove (503) of the second section (52) in response to the terminal (50) being axially inserted into the terminal housing (60).

13. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that Each cantilever member (605) has a radially inwardly inverted T-shaped cross section.

14. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that The terminal housing (20) further has a first tab (207) extending axially from a portion of a circumferential edge of the terminal housing (20) distal to the terminal (10), the first tab (207) having a sector ring-shaped cross section.

15. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that The mold casting housing (30) further has: two first limiting features (302) protruding radially inwardly from the second circumferential inner surface (301) and circumferentially spaced apart from each other, the two first limiting features (302) being adapted to circumferentially retain and limit the first tab (207) therebetween and being configured to cooperatively guide the first tab (207) to be axially inserted into the mold casting housing (30) and to act as circumferential limiters against circumferential rotation of the first tab (207); and a second limiting feature (303) protruding radially inwardly from an inner side of the mold casting housing (30) and at least partially circumferentially arranged distal to the two first limiting features (302) distal to the terminal (10), the second limiting feature (303) acting as an axial stopper for the first tab (207) to be axially inserted into the mold casting housing (30).

16. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that The terminal housing (20) is inserted in place within the mold casting housing (30) by the first tab (207) being snap-fitted between the two first limiting features (302) until being blocked by the second limiting feature (303) in response to the terminal housing (20) being axially inserted into the mold casting housing (30).

17. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that The terminal housing (20) further has a second tab (208) extending axially from a portion of a circumferential edge of the terminal housing (20) distal to the terminal (10), the second tab (208) being diametrically opposite to the first tab (207) and having a sector ring-shaped cross section.

18. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that The mold casting shell (30) further has an axial recess (304) radially recessed from the second circumferential inner surface (301), the axial recess (304) extending axially away from the terminal shell (20) from a circumferential edge at an end of the mold casting shell (30) facing the terminal shell (20), and the axial recess (304) is adapted to receive the second tab (208).

19. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that The electrical connector (1) further comprises at least one high voltage interlock terminal (91) arranged to extend through a passage (209) embedded in a portion of a circumferential edge of the terminal shell (20) axially aligned with the second tab (208).

20. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that The electrical connector (1) further comprises at least one third seal (43), each third seal (43) being sleeved on a respective high voltage interlock terminal (91) and being pressed in sealing between an outer surface of the respective high voltage interlock terminal (91) and an inner surface of the passage (209).

21. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that The second tab (208) extends axially away from the terminal (10) for a length shorter than the first tab (207).

22. The electrical connector (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that The terminal shell (20) further has a radially outwardly extending boss (210) between an end of the terminal shell (20) facing away from the mold casting shell (30) and the second circumferential recess (203), and the boss (210) is axially aligned with the first tab (207).

23. An electrical connector assembly (2) characterised in that, The electrical connector assembly (2) comprises at least two electrical connectors (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 22, the mold casting shells (30, 70) of the at least two electrical connectors (1) being integrally formed together.

Images