Combined terminal, connector and connector assembly

Abstract

The utility model discloses a combined terminal, a connector and a connector assembly. The combined terminal comprises: a terminal, wherein a first elastic arm is formed at the front part of the terminal; and the shell is sleeved on the front part of the terminal. A contact protrusion or a second elastic arm protruding towards the first elastic arm is formed on the top wall of the shell, and the contact protrusion or the second elastic arm is opposite to the first elastic arm in a spaced mode and used for clamping a matched terminal inserted between the contact protrusion or the second elastic arm and the first elastic arm. The conductivity of the manufacturing material of the terminal is superior to that of the manufacturing material of the shell, and the mechanical property of the manufacturing material of the shell is superior to that of the manufacturing material of the terminal. According to the utility model, the manufacturing cost of the combined terminal can be reduced, and the contact force between the combined terminal and the matching terminal can be improved, so that the reliable electric contact between the combined terminal and the matching terminal can be ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a combination terminal, including a connector of the combination terminal and a connector assembly including the connector. Background Technology

[0002] In the existing technology, connector terminals are usually made of copper. However, copper terminals are expensive, and their mechanical properties are generally poor, making it difficult to guarantee reliable electrical contact with mating terminals. Utility Model Content

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

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, a combined terminal is provided. The combined terminal includes: a terminal having a first elastic arm formed at its front portion; and a housing fitted onto the front portion of the terminal. A contact protrusion or a second elastic arm is formed on the top wall of the housing, protruding toward the first elastic arm, the contact protrusion or the second elastic arm being spaced apart from the first elastic arm and used to clamp mating terminals inserted between them. The electrical conductivity of the material used to manufacture the terminal is superior to that of the material used to manufacture the housing, and the mechanical properties of the material used to manufacture the housing are superior to those of the material used to manufacture the terminal.

[0005] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal is a copper terminal or a copper alloy terminal, and the housing is a stainless steel housing.

[0006] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal is a one-piece stamped part and / or the housing is a one-piece stamped part.

[0007] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front part of the terminal includes a base plate, and the bottom wall of the housing abuts against the bottom surface of the base plate of the terminal; a window is formed on the base plate of the terminal, and the first elastic arm of the terminal is suspended in the window.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front end and the rear end of the first elastic arm are respectively connected to the front side and the rear side of the window on the base plate, and the first elastic arm protrudes toward the top wall of the housing for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal includes a plurality of first elastic arms arranged side by side in its width direction, and the housing includes a plurality of contact protrusions corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms or a plurality of second elastic arms corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the front part of the terminal includes a base plate, and the bottom wall of the housing abuts against the bottom surface of the base plate of the terminal; the first elastic arm of the terminal includes: a first arm portion, the rear end of which is connected to the front side of the base plate and the front end of which is supported on the bottom wall of the housing; and a second arm portion, which is connected to the front end of the first arm portion and bent backward relative to the front end of the first arm portion, the second arm portion being suspended above the first arm portion and protruding towards the top wall of the housing for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal.

[0011] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the combined terminal mates with the mating terminal, the end of the second arm is adapted to be slidably supported on the top surface of the first arm.

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal includes a plurality of first elastic arms arranged side by side in its width direction, and the housing includes a plurality of contact protrusions corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms or a plurality of second elastic arms corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms.

[0013] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a second elastic arm is formed on the top wall of the housing, the front end of the second elastic arm is connected to the front side of the top wall and bends backward relative to the front side of the top wall; the second elastic arm is suspended below the top wall and protrudes toward the first elastic arm for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal.

[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the combined terminal mates with the mating terminal, the end of the second elastic arm is adapted to be slidably supported on the inner surface of the top wall.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing includes a plurality of second elastic arms arranged side by side in its width direction, and the terminal includes a plurality of first elastic arms corresponding to the plurality of second elastic arms respectively.

[0016] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the rear portion of the terminal is located outside the housing, and a crimping portion for crimping onto a cable is formed on the rear portion of the terminal for electrical connection with the cable.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing has two opposing sidewalls in its width direction, and rivet tabs are formed on the sidewalls of the housing; the front portion of the terminal has two opposing side plates in its width direction, and a groove is formed on the upper side edge of the side plate of the terminal; the rivet tabs on the sidewalls of the housing are riveted into the grooves on the side plates of the terminal to fix the front portion of the terminal to the housing.

[0018] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a spring sheet is formed on one of the base plate at the front of the terminal and the bottom wall of the housing, and a slot is formed on the other. The spring sheet is locked into the slot to lock the front of the terminal into the housing.

[0019] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing further includes a locking structure located on the outer side of its top and / or bottom walls, the locking structure being adapted to engage with the connector housing to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking structure includes a locking spring formed on the outer side of the top wall and / or bottom wall of the housing, the locking spring being adapted to engage with a locking groove in the connector housing to lock the combined terminal into the connector housing.

[0021] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking structure includes a top cover located above the top wall of the housing, with an opening formed on the top plate of the top cover, the opening being adapted to engage with an elastic snap in the connector housing to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0022] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, guide ribs are formed on the top and / or bottom walls of the housing, the guide ribs extending along the length direction of the combined terminals; the guide ribs are used to cooperate with guide grooves on the connector housing to guide the combined terminals to be inserted into the connector housing.

[0023] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an inwardly rolled-up limiting portion is formed on the front side of the bottom wall of the housing. The limiting portion presses downward on the front end of the first elastic arm of the terminal, so that the first elastic arm is restricted to an initial position with a predetermined initial contact force, thereby increasing the contact force between the first elastic arm and the mating terminal.

[0024] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an auxiliary elastic arm is formed on the bottom wall of the housing, the auxiliary elastic arm protruding toward the first elastic arm and abutting against the bottom surface of the first elastic arm, so as to improve the contact force between the first elastic arm and the mating terminal.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, a connector is provided. The connector includes: a connector housing; and the aforementioned combined terminals, which are inserted into the connector housing.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, a connector assembly is provided. The connector assembly includes: the aforementioned connector; and a mating connector for mating with the connector. The mating connector includes: a mating housing; and a mating terminal disposed within the mating housing. The mating terminal is inserted between a first resilient arm and a second resilient arm of the combined terminal, or between the first resilient arm and a contact protrusion.

[0027] In the foregoing exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the combined terminal can reduce manufacturing costs and improve the contact force with the mating terminal, thereby ensuring reliable electrical contact with the mating terminal.

[0028] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, and will help to provide a comprehensive understanding of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0030] Figure 2 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0031] Figure 3 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0032] Figure 4 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 5 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0034] Figure 6 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 7A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0036] Figure 8 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0037] Figure 9 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0038] Figure 10 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 11 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0040] Figure 12 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 13 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0042] Figure 14 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0043] Figure 15 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0044] Figure 16 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 17 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 18 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 19 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 20 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 21A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0050] Figure 22 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 23 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 24 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

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

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

[0055] According to a general technical concept of this utility model, a combined terminal is provided. The combined terminal includes: a terminal having a first elastic arm formed at its front portion; and a housing fitted onto the front portion of the terminal. A contact protrusion or a second elastic arm is formed on the top wall of the housing, protruding towards the first elastic arm, the contact protrusion or the second elastic arm being spaced apart from the first elastic arm and used to clamp mating terminals inserted between them. The electrical conductivity of the material used to manufacture the terminal is superior to that of the material used to manufacture the housing, and the mechanical properties of the material used to manufacture the housing are superior to those of the material used to manufacture the terminal.

[0056] According to another general technical concept of the present invention, a connector is provided. The connector includes: a connector housing; and the aforementioned combined terminals, which are inserted into the connector housing.

[0057] According to another general technical concept of this utility model, a connector assembly is provided. The connector assembly includes: the aforementioned connector; and a mating connector, mating with the connector. The mating connector includes: a mating housing; and mating terminals disposed within the mating housing. The mating terminals are inserted between a first elastic arm and a second elastic arm of the combined terminal, or between the first elastic arm and a contact protrusion. Example

[0058] Figures 1 to 6 This illustrates the first embodiment of the present invention. Wherein, Figure 1 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 6 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a combined terminal is disclosed. The combined terminal includes a terminal 1 and a housing 2. A first elastic arm 10 is formed at the front of the terminal 1. The housing 2 is fitted onto the front of the terminal 1. A contact protrusion 20 is formed on the top wall 21 of the housing 2, protruding towards the first elastic arm 10. The contact protrusion 20 is spaced apart from the first elastic arm 10 and is used to clamp mating terminals 3 inserted between them. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical conductivity of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1 is superior to that of the material used to manufacture the housing 2, and the mechanical properties of the material used to manufacture the housing 2 are superior to those of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, terminal 1 can be a copper terminal or a copper alloy terminal, and housing 2 can be a stainless steel housing.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 is a one-piece stamped part. Housing 2 is a one-piece stamped part.

[0062] like Figures 1 to 6As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front of terminal 1 includes a base plate 11, and the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2 abuts against the bottom surface of the base plate 11 of terminal 1. A window 101 is formed on the base plate 11 of terminal 1, and the first elastic arm 10 of terminal 1 is suspended in the window 101.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front end and rear end of the first elastic arm 10 are connected to the front side and rear side of the window 101 on the base plate 11, respectively. The first elastic arm 10 protrudes toward the top wall 21 of the housing 2 for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal 3.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 1 includes a plurality of first elastic arms 10 arranged side by side in its width direction, and the housing 2 includes a plurality of contact protrusions 20 corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms 10 respectively.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear part of terminal 1 is located outside the housing 2, and a crimping portion 19 for crimping onto a cable (not shown) is formed on the rear part of terminal 1 for electrical connection with the cable.

[0066] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 has two opposing sidewalls 23 in its width direction, and rivet tabs 202 are formed on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2. The front portion of the terminal 1 has two opposing side plates 12 in its width direction, and a groove 102 is formed on the upper side edge of the side plate 12 of the terminal 1. The rivet tabs 202 on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2 are riveted into the grooves 102 on the side plates 12 of the terminal 1 to fix the front portion of the terminal 1 to the housing 2.

[0067] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a spring piece 203 is formed on one of the base plate 11 at the front of terminal 1 and the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2, and a slot 103 is formed on the other. The spring piece 203 is locked into the slot 103 to lock the front of terminal 1 into housing 2.

[0068] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 also includes a locking structure located on the outside of its top wall 21 and / or bottom wall 22, the locking structure being adapted to engage with a connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0069] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned locking structure includes a top cover 29 located above the top wall 21 of the housing 2, with an opening 290 formed on the top plate 291 of the top cover 29. The opening 290 is adapted to engage with an elastic buckle (not shown) in the connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0070] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector is also disclosed. The connector includes a connector housing and the aforementioned combined terminals. The combined terminals are inserted into the connector housing.

[0071] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector assembly is also disclosed. The connector assembly includes the aforementioned connector and a mating connector. The mating connector mates with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing (not shown) and mating terminals 3. The mating terminals 3 are disposed within the mating housing. The mating terminals 3 are inserted between the first resilient arm 10 and the contact protrusion 20 of the combination terminal. Example

[0072] Figures 7 to 12 This illustrates a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 8 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 9 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 10 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 12 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a combined terminal is disclosed. The combined terminal includes a terminal 1 and a housing 2. A first elastic arm 10 is formed at the front of the terminal 1. The housing 2 is fitted onto the front of the terminal 1. A second elastic arm 24 is formed on the top wall 21 of the housing 2, protruding toward the first elastic arm 10. The second elastic arm 24 is spaced apart from the first elastic arm 10 and is used to clamp mating terminals 3 inserted between them. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical conductivity of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1 is superior to that of the material used to manufacture the housing 2, and the mechanical properties of the material used to manufacture the housing 2 are superior to those of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1.

[0074] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, terminal 1 can be a copper terminal or a copper alloy terminal, and housing 2 can be a stainless steel housing.

[0075] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 is a one-piece stamped part. Housing 2 is a one-piece stamped part.

[0076] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front of terminal 1 includes a base plate 11, and the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2 abuts against the bottom surface of the base plate 11 of terminal 1. A window 101 is formed on the base plate 11 of terminal 1, and the first elastic arm 10 of terminal 1 is suspended in the window 101.

[0077] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front end and rear end of the first elastic arm 10 are connected to the front side and rear side of the window 101 on the base plate 11, respectively. The first elastic arm 10 protrudes toward the top wall 21 of the housing 2 for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal 3.

[0078] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 includes a plurality of first elastic arms 10 arranged side by side in its width direction, and housing 2 includes second elastic arms 24 corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms 10 respectively.

[0079] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a second elastic arm 24 is formed on the top wall 21 of the housing 2. The front end of the second elastic arm 24 is connected to the front side of the top wall 21 and bends backward relative to the front side of the top wall 21. The second elastic arm 24 is suspended below the top wall 21 and protrudes toward the first elastic arm 10 for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal 3.

[0080] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the combined terminal mates with the mating terminal 3, the end of the second elastic arm 24 is adapted to be slidably supported on the inner surface of the top wall 21.

[0081] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 includes a plurality of second elastic arms 24 arranged side by side in its width direction, and the terminal 1 includes a plurality of first elastic arms 10 corresponding to the plurality of second elastic arms 24 respectively.

[0082] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear part of terminal 1 is located outside the housing 2, and a crimping portion 19 for crimping onto a cable (not shown) is formed on the rear part of terminal 1 for electrical connection with the cable.

[0083] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 has two opposing sidewalls 23 in its width direction, and rivet tabs 202 are formed on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2. The front portion of the terminal 1 has two opposing side plates 12 in its width direction, and a groove 102 is formed on the upper side edge of the side plate 12 of the terminal 1. The rivet tabs 202 on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2 are riveted into the grooves 102 on the side plates 12 of the terminal 1 to fix the front portion of the terminal 1 to the housing 2.

[0084] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 also includes a locking structure located on the outside of its top wall 21 and / or bottom wall 22, the locking structure being adapted to engage with a connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0085] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned locking structure includes a locking spring 27 formed on the outer side of the top wall 21 and / or bottom wall 22 of the housing 2, the locking spring 27 being adapted to engage with a locking groove (not shown) in the connector housing to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0086] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, guide ribs 28 are formed on the top wall 21 and / or bottom wall 22 of the housing 2, extending along the length of the combined terminals. The guide ribs 28 are used to mate with guide grooves (not shown) on the connector housing to guide the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0087] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, an inwardly rolled-up limiting portion 25 is formed on the front side of the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2. The limiting portion 25 presses downward on the front end of the first elastic arm 10 of the terminal 1, so that the first elastic arm 10 is restricted to an initial position with a predetermined initial contact force, thereby increasing the contact force between the first elastic arm 10 and the mating terminal 3.

[0088] like Figures 7 to 12 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector is also disclosed. The connector includes a connector housing and the aforementioned combined terminals. The combined terminals are inserted into the connector housing.

[0089] like Figures 7 to 12As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector assembly is also disclosed. The connector assembly includes the aforementioned connector and a mating connector. The mating connector mates with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing (not shown) and mating terminals 3. The mating terminals 3 are disposed within the mating housing. The mating terminals 3 are inserted between the first elastic arm 10 and the second elastic arm 24 of the combination terminal. Example

[0090] Figures 13 to 18 This invention demonstrates a third embodiment. In which, Figure 13 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 14 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 15 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 16 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 18 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a combined terminal is disclosed. The combined terminal includes a terminal 1 and a housing 2. A first elastic arm 10 is formed at the front of the terminal 1. The housing 2 is fitted onto the front of the terminal 1. A contact protrusion 20 is formed on the top wall 21 of the housing 2, protruding towards the first elastic arm 10. The contact protrusion 20 is spaced apart from the first elastic arm 10 and is used to clamp mating terminals 3 inserted between them. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical conductivity of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1 is superior to that of the material used to manufacture the housing 2, and the mechanical properties of the material used to manufacture the housing 2 are superior to those of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1.

[0092] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, terminal 1 can be a copper terminal or a copper alloy terminal, and housing 2 can be a stainless steel housing.

[0093] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 is a one-piece stamped part. Housing 2 is a one-piece stamped part.

[0094] like Figures 13 to 18As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front portion of terminal 1 includes a base plate 11. The bottom wall 22 of the housing 2 abuts against the bottom surface of the base plate 11 of terminal 1. The first elastic arm 10 of terminal 1 includes a first arm portion 10a and a second arm portion 10b. The rear end of the first arm portion 10a is connected to the front side edge of the base plate 11, and its front end is supported on the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2. The second arm portion 10b is connected to the front end of the first arm portion 10a and bends rearward relative to the front end of the first arm portion 10a. The second arm portion 10b is suspended above the first arm portion 10a and protrudes toward the top wall 21 of the housing 2 for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal 3.

[0095] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the combined terminal mates with the mating terminal 3, the end of the second arm 10b is adapted to be slidably supported on the top surface of the first arm 10a.

[0096] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 1 includes a plurality of first elastic arms 10 arranged side by side in its width direction, and the housing 2 includes a plurality of contact protrusions 20 corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms 10 respectively.

[0097] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear part of terminal 1 is located outside the housing 2, and a crimping portion 19 for crimping onto a cable (not shown) is formed on the rear part of terminal 1 for electrical connection with the cable.

[0098] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 has two opposing sidewalls 23 in its width direction, and rivet tabs 202 are formed on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2. The front portion of the terminal 1 has two opposing side plates 12 in its width direction, and a groove 102 is formed on the upper side edge of the side plate 12 of the terminal 1. The rivet tabs 202 on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2 are riveted into the grooves 102 on the side plates 12 of the terminal 1 to fix the front portion of the terminal 1 to the housing 2.

[0099] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 also includes a locking structure located on the outside of its top wall 21 and / or bottom wall 22, the locking structure being adapted to engage with a connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0100] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned locking structure includes a top cover 29 located above the top wall 21 of the housing 2, with an opening 290 formed on the top plate 291 of the top cover 29. The opening 290 is adapted to engage with an elastic buckle (not shown) in the connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0101] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, an inwardly rolled-up limiting portion 25 is formed on the front side of the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2. The limiting portion 25 presses downward on the front end of the first elastic arm 10 of the terminal 1, so that the first elastic arm 10 is restricted to an initial position with a predetermined initial contact force, thereby increasing the contact force between the first elastic arm 10 and the mating terminal 3.

[0102] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector is also disclosed. The connector includes a connector housing and the aforementioned combined terminals. The combined terminals are inserted into the connector housing.

[0103] like Figures 13 to 18 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector assembly is also disclosed. The connector assembly includes the aforementioned connector and a mating connector. The mating connector mates with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing (not shown) and mating terminals 3. The mating terminals 3 are disposed within the mating housing. The mating terminals 3 are inserted between the first resilient arm 10 and the contact protrusion 20 of the combination terminal. Example

[0104] Figures 19 to 24 This illustrates a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In which, Figure 19 A perspective view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 20 An exploded view of the combined terminals according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 21 A perspective view of a terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 22 Showing an anatomical view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 23 A perspective sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 24 Showing a plan sectional view of the combined terminal according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] like Figures 19 to 24As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a combined terminal is disclosed. The combined terminal includes a terminal 1 and a housing 2. A first elastic arm 10 is formed at the front of the terminal 1. The housing 2 is fitted onto the front of the terminal 1. A contact protrusion 20 is formed on the top wall 21 of the housing 2, protruding towards the first elastic arm 10. The contact protrusion 20 is spaced apart from the first elastic arm 10 and is used to clamp mating terminals 3 inserted between them. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical conductivity of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1 is superior to that of the material used to manufacture the housing 2, and the mechanical properties of the material used to manufacture the housing 2 are superior to those of the material used to manufacture the terminal 1.

[0106] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of this utility model, terminal 1 can be a copper terminal or a copper alloy terminal, and housing 2 can be a stainless steel housing.

[0107] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, terminal 1 is a one-piece stamped part. Housing 2 is a one-piece stamped part.

[0108] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front of terminal 1 includes a base plate 11, and the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2 abuts against the bottom surface of the base plate 11 of terminal 1. A window 101 is formed on the base plate 11 of terminal 1, and the first elastic arm 10 of terminal 1 is suspended in the window 101.

[0109] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the front end and rear end of the first elastic arm 10 are connected to the front side and rear side of the window 101 on the base plate 11, respectively. The first elastic arm 10 protrudes toward the top wall 21 of the housing 2 for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal 3.

[0110] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 1 includes a plurality of first elastic arms 10 arranged side by side in its width direction, and the housing 2 includes a plurality of contact protrusions 20 corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms 10 respectively.

[0111] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear part of terminal 1 is located outside the housing 2, and a crimping portion 19 for crimping onto a cable (not shown) is formed on the rear part of terminal 1 for electrical connection with the cable.

[0112] like Figures 19 to 24As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 has two opposing sidewalls 23 in its width direction, and rivet tabs 202 are formed on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2. The front portion of the terminal 1 has two opposing side plates 12 in its width direction, and a groove 102 is formed on the upper side edge of the side plate 12 of the terminal 1. The rivet tabs 202 on the sidewalls 23 of the housing 2 are riveted into the grooves 102 on the side plates 12 of the terminal 1 to fix the front portion of the terminal 1 to the housing 2.

[0113] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a spring piece 203 is formed on one of the base plate 11 at the front of terminal 1 and the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2, and a slot 103 is formed on the other. The spring piece 203 is locked into the slot 103 to lock the front of terminal 1 into housing 2.

[0114] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 2 also includes a locking structure located on the outside of its top wall 21 and / or bottom wall 22, the locking structure being adapted to engage with a connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0115] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned locking structure includes a top cover 29 located above the top wall 21 of the housing 2, with an opening 290 formed on the top plate 291 of the top cover 29. The opening 290 is adapted to engage with an elastic buckle (not shown) in the connector housing (not shown) to lock the combined terminals into the connector housing.

[0116] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, an auxiliary elastic arm 26 is formed on the bottom wall 22 of the housing 2. The auxiliary elastic arm 26 protrudes toward the first elastic arm 10 and abuts against the bottom surface of the first elastic arm 10 to improve the contact force between the first elastic arm 10 and the mating terminal 3.

[0117] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector is also disclosed. The connector includes a connector housing and the aforementioned combined terminals. The combined terminals are inserted into the connector housing.

[0118] like Figures 19 to 24 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of this utility model, a connector assembly is also disclosed. The connector assembly includes the aforementioned connector and a mating connector. The mating connector mates with the connector. The mating connector includes a mating housing (not shown) and mating terminals 3. The mating terminals 3 are disposed within the mating housing. The mating terminals 3 are inserted between the first resilient arm 10 and the contact protrusion 20 of the combination terminal.

[0119] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described above are exemplary and can be improved upon. The structures described in the various embodiments can be freely combined without causing structural or principle conflicts, and these changes should fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0120] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the embodiments disclosed in the drawings are intended to illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and should not be construed as a limitation thereof.

[0121] While some embodiments of the general concept of this utility model have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the general concept of this utility model, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0122] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple elements. Furthermore, any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A combination terminal characterized by, Comprising: a terminal (1) having a first elastic arm (10) formed at a front portion thereof; and a housing (2) fitted to the front portion of the terminal (1), a contact protrusion (20) or a second elastic arm (24) protruding toward the first elastic arm (10) is formed on a top wall (21) of the housing (2), the contact protrusion (20) or the second elastic arm (24) is spaced opposite to the first elastic arm (10) for clamping a counter terminal (3) inserted therebetween, the terminal (1) is made of a material having a better electrical conductivity than that of the housing (2), and the housing (2) is made of a material having a better mechanical property than that of the terminal (1).

2. The combined terminal according to claim 1, wherein: the terminal (1) is a copper terminal or a copper alloy terminal, and the housing (2) is a stainless steel housing.

3. The combined terminal according to claim 1, wherein: the terminal (1) is an integral stamping and / or the housing (2) is an integral stamping.

4. The combined terminal according to claim 1, wherein: a bottom plate (11) is included in the front portion of the terminal (1), and a bottom wall (22) of the housing (2) is abutted against a bottom surface of the bottom plate (11) of the terminal (1); a window (101) is formed in the bottom plate (11) of the terminal (1), and the first elastic arm (10) of the terminal (1) is suspended in the window (101).

5. The combined terminal according to claim 4, wherein: a front end and a rear end of the first elastic arm (10) are connected to a front side edge and a rear side edge of the window (101) on the bottom plate (11) respectively, and the first elastic arm (10) protrudes toward the top wall (21) of the housing (2) for electrical contact with the inserted counter terminal (3).

6. The combined terminal according to claim 5, wherein: the terminal (1) includes a plurality of first elastic arms (10) arranged side by side in a width direction thereof, and the housing (2) includes a plurality of contact protrusions (20) corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms (10) respectively or includes a plurality of second elastic arms (24) corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arms (10) respectively.

7. The combined terminal according to claim 1, wherein: a bottom plate (11) is included in the front portion of the terminal (1), and a bottom wall (22) of the housing (2) is abutted against a bottom surface of the bottom plate (11) of the terminal (1); the first elastic arm (10) of the terminal (1) includes: a first arm portion (10a) having a rear end connected to a front side edge of the bottom plate (11) and a front end supported on the bottom wall (22) of the housing (2); and a second arm portion (10b) connected to and bent backward relative to a front end of the first arm portion (10a). ​ The second arm portion (10b) is suspended above the first arm portion (10a) and projects toward a top wall (21) of the housing (2) for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal (3).

8. The combination terminal according to claim 7, wherein: The tip of the second arm portion (10b) is adapted to be slidably supported on the top surface of the first arm portion (10a) when the combination terminal is mated with the mating terminal (3).

9. The combination terminal according to claim 7, wherein: The terminal (1) includes a plurality of first elastic arm portions (10) arranged side by side in the width direction thereof, and the housing (2) includes a plurality of contact projections (20) corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arm portions (10) respectively or includes a plurality of second elastic arm portions (24) corresponding to the plurality of first elastic arm portions (10) respectively.

10. The combination terminal according to claim 1, wherein: A second elastic arm portion (24) is formed on a top wall (21) of the housing (2), a front end of the second elastic arm portion (24) is connected to a front side edge of the top wall (21) and is bent rearward with respect to the front side edge of the top wall (21); The second elastic arm portion (24) is suspended below the top wall (21) and projects toward the first elastic arm portion (10) for electrical contact with the inserted mating terminal (3).

11. The combination terminal according to claim 10, wherein: The tip of the second elastic arm portion (24) is adapted to be slidably supported on an inner surface of the top wall (21) when the combination terminal is mated with the mating terminal (3).

12. The combination terminal according to claim 10, wherein: The housing (2) includes a plurality of second elastic arm portions (24) arranged side by side in the width direction thereof, and the terminal (1) includes a plurality of first elastic arm portions (10) corresponding to the plurality of second elastic arm portions (24) respectively.

13. The combination terminal according to claim 1, wherein: A rear portion of the terminal (1) is located outside the housing (2), and a crimping portion (19) for being crimped to a cable is formed on the rear portion of the terminal (1) to electrically connect with the cable.

14. The combination terminal according to claim 1, wherein: The housing (2) has two side walls (23) opposite to each other in the width direction thereof, and a rivet piece (202) is formed on the side wall (23) of the housing (2); A front portion of the terminal (1) has two side plates (12) opposite to each other in the width direction thereof, and a recess (102) is formed on an upper side edge of the side plate (12) of the terminal (1); The rivet piece (202) on the side wall (23) of the housing (2) is riveted into the recess (102) on the side plate (12) of the terminal (1) to fix the front portion of the terminal (1) into the housing (2).

15. The combination terminal according to claim 1, wherein: A spring sheet (203) is formed on one of the front part of the terminal (1) and the bottom wall (22) of the housing (2), and a clamping groove (103) is formed on the other, the spring sheet (203) is locked into the clamping groove (103) to lock the front part of the terminal (1) into the housing (2).

16. The combined terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing (2) further comprises a locking structure on the outer side of the top wall (21) and / or the bottom wall (22) thereof, which is adapted to engage with a connector housing to lock the combined terminal into the connector housing.

17. The combined terminal according to claim 16, characterized in that: The locking structure comprises a locking spring sheet (27) formed on the outer side of the top wall (21) and / or the bottom wall (22) of the housing (2), which is adapted to engage with a locking groove in the connector housing to lock the combined terminal into the connector housing.

18. The combined terminal according to claim 16, characterized in that: The locking structure comprises a top cover (29) above the top wall (21) of the housing (2), an opening (290) is formed on the top plate (291) of the top cover (29), which is adapted to engage with a elastic buckle in the connector housing to lock the combined terminal into the connector housing.

19. The combined terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: A guide rib (28) is formed on the top wall (21) and / or the bottom wall (22) of the housing (2), which extends along the length direction of the combined terminal; The guide rib (28) is used to cooperate with a guide groove on the connector housing to guide the combined terminal to be inserted into the connector housing.

20. The combined terminal according to claim 1, characterized in that: An inwardly rolled limiting part (25) is formed on the front side edge of the bottom wall (22) of the housing (2), which presses downward on the front end of the first elastic arm (10) of the terminal (1), so that the first elastic arm (10) is limited in an initial position with a predetermined initial contact force, to increase the contact force between the first elastic arm (10) and the counter terminal (3).

21. The combined terminal according to any one of claims 1-20, characterized in that: An auxiliary elastic arm (26) is formed on the bottom wall (22) of the housing (2), which protrudes towards the first elastic arm (10) and abuts against the bottom surface of the first elastic arm (10) to increase the contact force between the first elastic arm (10) and the counter terminal (3).

22. A connector characterized by comprising: Comprising: A connector housing; And The combined terminal according to any one of claims 1-21, which is inserted into the connector housing.

23. A connector assembly characterized by Comprising: The connector according to claim 22; And A counter connector, which is counter to the connector, The counter connector comprises: A counter housing; And The combined terminal according to any one of claims 1-21, which is inserted into the connector housing. The pair of terminal (3) is provided in the pair of terminal housing, The pair of terminal (3) is inserted between the first elastic arm (10) and the second elastic arm (24) or the first elastic arm (10) and the contact protrusion (20) of the combination terminal.

Images