A socket and electrical connector

Abstract

This application relates to the field of connector technology, disclosing a socket and an electrical connector. The socket includes a first terminal, a first housing, and a locking member. The first terminal has a locking slot and a limiting spring. The first housing has a first slot and a locking groove. The first slot has a clearance channel, a limiting slot, and a first guide slope. The locking member is connected to the first housing and has a locking buckle. The electrical connector includes a socket, a CPA, a second slot, and a resilient handle. The CPA includes a spring and a tail. The spring has a first boss, and the tail has a stepped structure. The second slot is located in the first housing and mates with the CPA. The resilient handle is connected to the first housing and has a horizontal block with a stop surface. When the CPA is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot, the first boss stops at the stop surface. This application improves the convenience of terminal insertion and removal, enhances the connection reliability between the first terminal and the slot, and improves the stability and reliability of the CPA pre-installed in the socket.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of connector technology, and in particular to a socket and an electrical connector. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical connectors include mating sockets and plugs. The socket has socket terminals, and the plug has plug terminals. When the plug is inserted into the socket, the plug terminals mate with the corresponding socket terminals. In existing electrical connector sockets, during the insertion of the socket terminals into the socket housing, there is significant interference between the limiting spring of the socket terminal and the socket housing. The limiting spring is easily deformed by excessive compression, which not only increases the resistance during terminal insertion and the difficulty of rework, but also leads to poor retention force after the socket terminal is positioned, causing the terminal to easily shift or come out. Furthermore, the significant interference between the limiting spring and the socket housing increases the difficulty of judging the timing of the socket terminal insertion, easily leading to false positioning of the terminal. Utility Model Content

[0003] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a socket and electrical connector, resolving the issues of high resistance during socket terminal insertion, significant deformation of the limiting spring, poor retention force of the first segment of the socket terminal, easy displacement and disengagement, and susceptibility to false positioning in existing electrical connectors. The socket and electrical connector provided by this application significantly improve the convenience of terminal insertion and removal for repair, avoid the problem of false terminal insertion, and enhance the reliability of the connection between the first terminal and the first slot.

[0004] This application provides a socket, the socket comprising: a first terminal having a locking opening and a limiting spring; a first housing having a first slot having a clearance channel for the limiting spring to pass through in a non-deformed state and a limiting slot for the limiting spring to engage; the end of the clearance channel having a first guide slope for guiding the limiting spring to elastically slide into the limiting slot; the first housing having a locking groove communicating with the first slot, the locking opening being exposed in the locking groove; and a locking member connected to the first housing having a locking buckle that can be engaged and fixed in the locking groove and blocked by the locking opening.

[0005] In some embodiments, the locking member is elastically connected to the first housing; in the initial state, the locking buckle is connected to the inlet end of the locking groove via a connection point, the connection point being configured to be disconnected under external force so that the locking buckle can be pressed to snap into the locking groove.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first terminal includes a crimping section and a plug-in section in sequence along the axial direction. The locking opening is disposed at the connection between the crimping section and the plug-in section. The plug-in section is provided with a foolproof part, and the limiting spring is disposed on the outer wall of the foolproof part and extends outward at an angle.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first slot includes a crimping section and a plugging section in sequence along the axial direction. The crimping section passes through one end of the first housing and forms a first terminal inlet for axial insertion of the first terminal.

[0008] The clearance channel is located on the inner wall of the crimping section; the inner wall of the insertion section is provided with a foolproof groove that connects to the clearance channel and allows the foolproof part to be inserted; the first guide slope connects the clearance channel and the foolproof groove.

[0009] In some embodiments of this application, an electrical connector is provided, the electrical connector including the socket described in any one of the preceding claims, and: a CPA, the CPA including a spring and a tail, the end of the spring having a first boss and the tail having a stepped structure; a second slot disposed on the first housing, the second slot engaging with the CPA, the second slot being configured to limit the CPA to a pre-installed position and allow the CPA to continue to be inserted to a locked position; an elastic handle elastically connected to the first housing, the elastic handle having a cross block, the end of the cross block facing the insertion direction of the CPA having a concave stop surface; wherein, when the CPA is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot, the end of the first boss stops at the stop surface; when the CPA is inserted into the locked position of the second slot, the first boss extends beyond the cross block and the stepped structure stops within the range of motion between the elastic handle and the first housing.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second slot sequentially includes an interference section and a locking section along the axial direction. The interference section penetrates one end of the first housing and forms a CPA inlet for axial insertion of the CPA. The end of the elastic handle faces the CPA inlet and forms the active range between it and the interference section. The width of the interference section is smaller than the width of the locking section, and the two sides of the locking section and the interference section are respectively provided with hooking surfaces that are inclined towards the CPA inlet.

[0011] In some embodiments, the CPA further includes: elastic side arms, correspondingly disposed on both sides of the spring and having a deformation space between them, each elastic side arm having a side barb extending away from the spring; wherein the interference section interferes with the side barb, the interference section being configured to allow the elastic side arm to pass through in a deformed state; when the CPA is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot, the elastic side arms are reset, the side barbs are located in the locking section, and the side barbs are hooked onto the corresponding hooking surface.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second slot further includes: expansion channels, correspondingly disposed on the inner walls of both sides of the interference section near the CPA inlet, wherein the width between the two expansion channels is greater than the width between the opposite sides of the two elastic side arms and less than or equal to the width between the opposite sides of the two side barbs; and a second guide ramp, respectively disposed at one end of the expansion channel facing the locking section, wherein the second guide ramp is configured to guide the corresponding side barb to elastically slide into the locking section from the corresponding expansion channel.

[0013] In some embodiments, the electrical connector further includes: a positioning groove disposed at the CPA inlet; and a positioning portion disposed on the tail portion, wherein the positioning portion engages with the positioning groove when the CPA is inserted into the locking position of the second slot.

[0014] The socket provided in this application significantly reduces the resistance between the limiting spring and the first slot during the insertion of the first terminal, thereby reducing the insertion force of the first terminal and improving the convenience of insertion and removal for repair. Furthermore, during the insertion of the first terminal, the limiting spring does not deform under pressure when passing through the clearance channel, which helps maintain its elasticity and significantly improves the holding force of the first terminal after positioning. It also makes it easier to determine whether the first terminal is properly inserted, avoiding the problem of false insertion. In addition, the locking opening is exposed in the locking groove, and the locking buckle on the locking member can engage and fix the locking groove and stop at the locking opening, achieving auxiliary locking of the first terminal. This further improves the holding force of the first terminal, enhances the connection reliability between the first terminal and the first slot, and can also assist in determining whether the first terminal is properly inserted based on the engagement and fixation of the locking buckle. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The technical solution of this application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. In the accompanying drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the socket and CPA structure of one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application;

[0017] Figure 2This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the first housing of one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a socket according to one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application;

[0019] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a CPA according to one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application;

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the CPA in the pre-installed position when inserted into the second slot, according to one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the CPA in the pre-installed position when inserted into the second slot, according to one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0022] Figure 7 This is a bottom view of the first housing of one embodiment of the electrical connector of this application.

[0023] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0024] 1-First terminal, 11-Locking notch, 12-Limiting spring, 13-Crimping section, 14-Plug-in section, 15-Follow-the-foolproof part, 2-First housing, 21-First slot, 211-Allowing channel, 212-Limiting slot, 213-First guide slope, 214-Crimping section, 215-Plug-in section, 216-First terminal inlet, 217-Follow-the-foolproof groove, 218-Second terminal inlet, 22-Locking groove, 23-Second slot, 231-Interference section, 232-Locking section, 233-CPA inlet, 234 - Hooking surface, 235 - Expansion channel, 236 - Second guide slope, 237 - Positioning groove, 238 - Boss entrance, 3 - Locking element, 31 - Locking buckle, 311 - Connection point, 4 - CPA, 41 - Spring tongue, 411 - First boss, 42 - Tail, 421 - Step structure, 422 - Positioning part, 423 - Handle part, 43 - Elastic side arm, 431 - Side barb, 432 - Stabilizing surface, 44 - Hollow structure, 5 - Elastic handle, 51 - Horizontal block, 511 - Stop surface, 512 - Third guide slope. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and effects of this utility model clearer and more explicit, the technical solutions of this utility model will be further described in detail below through specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.

[0026] The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this specification and claims are used only to distinguish objects with similar names and do not represent a specific ordering of objects. It is understood that, where permissible, a specific order or sequence may be interchanged so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0027] The term "comprising" as used in the specification and claims should not be construed as limiting itself to what follows; it does not exclude other elements. Therefore, it should be interpreted as specifying the presence of the mentioned feature, integral or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps or components and groups thereof.

[0028] The terms "some embodiments" or "embodiment" used in this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the terms "some embodiments" or "in this embodiment" appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but may refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the particular features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. In case of any inconsistency, the meaning set forth in this specification or derived from the content described herein shall prevail. Furthermore, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0030] Please see Figures 1 to 3 In some embodiments of this application, a socket is provided, which is part of an electrical connector. The socket includes a first terminal 1, a first housing 2, and a locking member 3. At least two first terminals 1 are provided. The specific number of first terminals is not limited in this application and can be set according to the actual usage requirements of the electrical connector. For the sake of simplicity, only one first terminal 1 is shown in the figure. Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the first terminal 1 is a female terminal. Each first terminal 1 is provided with a locking opening 11 and a limiting spring 12. The locking opening 11 can be set closer to the wire pressing end of the first terminal 1 than the limiting spring 12.

[0031] The first housing 2 can be made of plastic. The first housing 2 is the female end housing, i.e., the plastic box of the socket. The first housing 2 is provided with a first slot 21 for inserting the first terminal 1. The first slot 21 can be inserted along the height direction of the first housing 2, i.e. Figure 1Extending vertically within the first housing 2, the number of first slots 21 matches the number of first terminals 1. The first slots 21 can extend along the length of the first housing 2, i.e. Figure 1 The arrangement of the connectors in the left-right direction, either in a single row or multiple rows, is not limited in this application and can be configured according to the actual usage requirements of the electrical connectors. For example... Figure 3 As shown, each first slot 21 includes a clearance channel 211 for the limiting spring 12 to pass through in a non-deformed state and a limiting slot 212 for the limiting spring 12 to be engaged. The end of the clearance channel 211 is provided with a first guide slope 213 to guide the limiting spring 12 to slide elastically into the limiting slot 212.

[0032] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 The first housing 2 is also provided with a locking groove 22 that connects to the first slot 21. After the first terminal 1 is inserted into the first slot 21 according to the design requirements, the locking opening 11 is exposed in the locking groove 22. The number and position of the locking grooves 22 can be set according to the arrangement of the first slots 21 and the insertion position of the first terminal 1, and this application does not limit this. In this embodiment, the locking grooves 22 extend along the length direction of the first housing 2, and each locking groove 22 is configured to connect with the avoidance channel 211 of all the first slots 21 on the same side.

[0033] The locking member 3 is connected to the first housing 2. The number of locking members 3 matches the number of locking slots 22. Each locking member 3 is provided with a locking buckle 31. The locking buckle 31 is configured to be snapped into the corresponding locking slot 22 and stopped in the corresponding locking opening 11.

[0034] The socket provided in this application has a clearance channel 211 on the first slot 21 configured to allow the limiting spring 12 to pass through in a non-deformed state, so that there is a significant step difference between the clearance channel 211 and the inner wall surface of the first slot 21 where the limiting slot 212 is located. The first slot 21 and the limiting spring 12 are separated, and the limiting spring 12 can be guided by the first guide slope 213 to slide from the clearance channel 211 into the limiting slot 212. This significantly reduces the resistance between the limiting spring 12 and the first slot 21 during the insertion of the first terminal 1, reduces the terminal insertion force, and improves the convenience of terminal insertion. When the first terminal 1 needs to be removed for repair, first disengage the locking buckle 31 of the locking member 3 from the locking groove 22, and release the locking buckle 31 from the stop of the locking port 11 of the first terminal 1. Then, push the limiting spring 12 from the outside of the limiting groove 212 to disengage it from the limiting groove 212, and at the same time pull the first terminal 1 outward. When the limiting spring 12 is pulled out through the avoidance channel 211, it is not squeezed, which reduces the resistance of the terminal removal. The removal of the first terminal 1 is smoother. Only one pull is needed to remove the first terminal 1 from the first slot 21, which significantly improves the convenience of terminal removal for repair.

[0035] Moreover, in the socket provided by this application, during the insertion of the first terminal 1, the limiting spring 12 will not be deformed by pressure when passing through the avoidance channel 211, which is conducive to the limiting spring 12 maintaining its own elasticity and significantly improves the holding force of the first terminal 1 after positioning. When the limiting spring 12 moves with the first terminal 1 to contact the first guide slope 213, the limiting spring 12 deforms and forms frictional resistance with the first slot 21. Under the guidance of the first guide slope 213, the limiting spring 12 can be inserted into the limiting slot 212 more smoothly. At this time, the limiting spring 12 is reset, and the frictional resistance between it and the first slot 21 disappears, making it easier to determine whether the first terminal 1 is inserted in place and avoiding the problem of false insertion of the terminal.

[0036] In addition, the socket provided in this application has an independent terminal auxiliary locking structure. After the first terminal 1 is inserted into place, the locking opening 11 is exposed to the locking groove 22. The locking groove 22 can be fixed by the locking buckle 31 on the locking member 3 and stopped at the locking opening 11, thereby achieving auxiliary locking of the first terminal 1. This further improves the holding force of the first terminal 1, improves the connection reliability between the first terminal 1 and the first slot 21, and can also help determine whether the first terminal 1 is inserted into place based on the locking and fixing status of the locking buckle 31.

[0037] Please see Figures 1 to 3 In some embodiments, the locking member 3 is elastically connected to the first housing 2, and the locking buckle 31 is disposed at the movable end of the locking member 3 away from its connection with the first housing 2; in the initial state, the locking buckle 31 is connected to the connection point 311 (e.g., Figure 3 (As shown) is connected to the inlet end of the locking groove 22. The connection point 311 is configured to be disconnectable under external force, so that the locking buckle 31 provided on the movable end of the locking member 3 can be pressed and locked into the locking groove 22. The locking member 3 can be manufactured with the first housing 2 using an integral molding process. Compared with the split structure design, this is beneficial to reduce production costs and the number of components in the socket. It also avoids the loss of the locking member 3 before assembly and prevents the locking buckle 31 from being pressed and locked into the locking groove 22 in advance.

[0038] like Figure 3As shown, the lower end of each locking member 3 can be integrally connected to the lower side of the first housing 2, and the upper end of each locking member 3 can be connected to the inlet end of the corresponding locking groove 22 through one or more connection points 311, preventing the locking buckle 31 of the locking member 3 from being accidentally stuck and fixed to the locking groove 22 before the first terminal 1 is inserted. After the first terminal 1 is inserted, external force can be applied to the end of the locking member 3 to disconnect the connection point 311, so that the locking buckle 31 can be pressed and fixed to the locking groove 22; when the first terminal 1 needs to be removed for repair, external force can be applied to the end of the locking member 3 and the locking buckle 31 can be pried out, making the assembly of the socket more convenient and improving the assembly efficiency.

[0039] Please see Figure 3 In some embodiments, the first terminal 1 includes a crimping section 13 and a plug-in section 14 in sequence along the axial direction. A locking port 11 is provided at the connection between the crimping section 13 and the plug-in section 14. The plug-in section 14 is provided with a foolproof part 15. A limiting spring 12 is provided on the outer wall of the foolproof part 15 and extends outward at an angle.

[0040] Please see Figure 3 The first slot 21 includes a crimping section 214 and a insertion section 215 along the axial direction. The crimping section 214 penetrates one end of the first housing 2 and forms a first terminal inlet 216 for the axial insertion of the first terminal 1. A clearance channel 211 is provided on the inner wall of the crimping section 214. The inner wall of the insertion section 215 is provided with a misalignment groove 217 that connects to the clearance channel 211 and allows the misalignment part 15 to be inserted. A first guide slope 213 connects the clearance channel 211 and the misalignment groove 217.

[0041] The crimping section 13 is used to crimp the wire, and the plug-in section 14 is used to plug in the mating male terminal and form a retaining force with the first slot. The foolproof part 15 and the foolproof groove 217 cooperate to limit the first terminal 1 to be correctly inserted and removed from the first slot 21, prevent the first terminal 1 from being installed incorrectly, and ensure the effectiveness and reliability of the first terminal 1 in the first housing 2. After the first terminal 1 is inserted into place, the crimping section 13 is received in the crimping section 214, the foolproof part 15 is received in the foolproof groove 217, the locking opening 11 is exposed in the locking groove 22, and the limiting spring 12 is engaged in the limiting slot 212.

[0042] The mating structure of an electrical connector's plug and socket maintains good conductivity under favorable environmental conditions (e.g., when the connector is stationary). However, in certain special environmental conditions (e.g., high-frequency vibration of the connector, significant tensile force on the wire harnesses at both ends), the plug and socket can easily detach unintentionally due to vibration, pulling of the wire harnesses, or unintentional human error. This can lead to terminal contact failure or even power outage. To address this issue, a CPA (Connector Position Assurance) is typically installed between the plug and socket of an electrical connector. After the plug and socket are mated, the CPA acts as an auxiliary locking device, further reinforcing the connection and preventing accidental disconnection due to vibration, impact, or other dynamic forces. Before use, the CPA is usually pre-installed in the socket's pre-installed position, facilitating direct assembly with the plug. However, existing electrical connectors lack reliable limiting of the CPA in the pre-installed position. Vibration during transportation or accidental pressing of the CPA can easily cause the CPA to be further inserted into the locking position, affecting the normal assembly of subsequent electrical connectors.

[0043] To resolve the above technical issues, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments of this application, an electrical connector is provided, which includes the socket described in any of the foregoing claims, and further includes CPA4, a second slot 23, and a resilient handle 5, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, CPA4 includes a spring 41 and a tail 42. The rear end of the spring 41 is integrally connected to the tail 42. The movable end of the spring 41 away from the tail 42 is provided with a first protrusion 411, and the tail 42 is provided with a stepped structure 421. The first protrusion 411 provided on the movable end of the spring 41 can elastically swing relative to the tail 42 within a certain limit along the thickness direction of CPA4.

[0044] Please see Figure 1 The second slot 23 is disposed on the first housing 2. In this embodiment, the second slot 23 is described as being disposed at the front center of the first housing 2. The second slot 23 mates with the CPA4 and is configured to confine the CPA4 to a pre-installed position and allow the CPA4 to be further inserted into the locking position. The pre-installed position refers to the position where the CPA4 is pre-installed on the first housing 2 before the electrical connector is assembled (e.g., ...). Figure 5(As shown in the figure). After the plug of the electrical connector (not shown in the figure) is inserted into the socket, CPA4 can be pushed further to the locking position to achieve a secondary locking of the plug and socket, reducing the risk of the plug and socket coming loose during use.

[0045] The elastic handle 5 is elastically connected to the first housing 2. The elastic handle 5 and the first housing 2 can be manufactured using an integral molding process, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the elastic handle 5 is located in the second slot 23. When the first housing 2 is placed with the first terminal inlet 216 facing downwards, the rear end of the elastic handle 5 can be integrally connected to the upper front end of the first housing 2. The movable end of the elastic handle 5 away from its connection with the first housing 2 can elastically swing relative to the first housing 2 within a certain limit along the thickness direction of the elastic handle 5. A horizontal block 51 is provided in the middle of the elastic handle 5. The end of the horizontal block 51 facing the CPA4 insertion direction has a concave stop surface 511 (e.g., ...). Figure 5 As shown). Figure 5 As shown, when the first housing 2 is placed with the first terminal inlet 216 facing downwards, the movable end of the elastic handle 5 is at the bottom and the rear end is at the top. When the CPA4 is inserted into the second slot 23 from bottom to top, the stop surface 511 is located at the lower end of the horizontal block 51.

[0046] When CPA4 is pre-installed on the first housing 2, i.e. the socket's plastic box, CPA4 is inserted upward into the pre-installed position of the second slot 23. At this time, the upper end of the first protrusion 411 stops at the stop surface 511, which can prevent CPA4 from moving further upward to the locking position of the second slot 23. This effectively restricts CPA4 to the pre-installed position of the second slot 23, solving the problem that CPA4 is mistakenly moved to the locking position of the second slot 23 due to vibration or accidental pressing before the socket and plug are assembled.

[0047] After the socket and plug are connected, a locking mechanism between them can be used to achieve a first locking. At this time, the mating structure on the plug (such as the second protrusion) can engage with the stop surface 511 of the horizontal block 51, and the mating structure on the plug can push the first protrusion 411 on the movable end of the spring tongue 41 away from the stop surface 511, thus releasing the blocking effect of the horizontal block 51 on the CPA4. Then, the CPA4 can continue to be inserted upward into the locking position of the second slot 23 under the action of external force, so that the first protrusion 411 moves upward past the horizontal block 51 and the step structure 421 moves upward to the movable range between the elastic handle 5 and the first housing 2. The movable range refers to the space formed between the movable end of the elastic handle 5 and the first housing 2, which allows the elastic handle 5 to swing within a certain limit. After CPA4 is inserted into the locking position of the second slot 23, the step structure 421 stops in the active range. The movable end of the elastic handle 5 is blocked by the step structure 421 and cannot swing. Therefore, the horizontal block 51 cannot be released from the locking state of the plug by pressing or bending the elastic handle 5. This achieves secondary locking of the socket and plug and ensures the connection reliability of the electrical connector.

[0048] Please see Figure 5 In some embodiments, the stop surface 511 can be configured as a structure similar to a "V"-shaped concave or a "√"-shaped concave, that is, the stop surface 511 is composed of two angled slopes, and the included angle between the two slopes can be any one of acute angle, right angle, or obtuse angle, which is not limited in this application. The front end of the first boss 411 is provided with an inclined structure that cooperates with the stop surface 511, so that when the CPA4 is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot 23, the inclined structure of the front end of the first boss 411 can match a part of the surface of the stop surface 511, which further improves the stopping effect of the cross block 51 on the first boss 411 and prevents the CPA4 from continuing to be inserted into the locking position of the second slot 23 under the action of external force when not in use.

[0049] Please see Figure 6In some embodiments, the second slot 23 includes an interference section 231 and a locking section 232 along the axial direction. The interference section 231 penetrates one end of the first housing 2 and forms a CPA inlet 233 for axial insertion of the CPA4. The movable end of the elastic handle 5 faces the CPA inlet 233, and the movable end of the elastic handle 5 and the interference section 231 form the aforementioned movable range. The slot width of the interference section 231 is smaller than the slot width of the locking section 232. Hook surfaces 234, inclined towards the CPA inlet 233, are correspondingly provided at the connection points on both sides of the locking section 232 and the interference section 231. In this embodiment, the CPA inlet 233 and the first terminal inlet 216 are both located at the lower end of the first housing 2, with the interference section 231 below and the locking section 232 above. The hook surface 234 can be configured to extend obliquely downwards, and the CPA4 is inserted into the second slot 23 from bottom to top through the CPA inlet 233.

[0050] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, CPA4 further includes two elastic side arms 43, correspondingly disposed on both sides of the spring tongue 41, with a deformation space between the elastic side arms 43 and the spring tongue 41, allowing the elastic side arms 43 on both sides to move towards the central spring tongue 41 through elastic deformation. Each elastic side arm 43 has a front end with a side barb 431 extending away from the spring tongue 41, and the width between the opposite sides of the two side barbs 431 is greater than the width between the opposite sides of the two elastic side arms 43. The rear end of the elastic side arm 43 can be integrally connected to the tail 42.

[0051] Interference section 231 interferes with side barbs 431, that is, the slot width of interference section 231 is less than the width between the opposite sides of the two side barbs 431. Interference section 231 is configured to allow elastic side arms 43 to pass through in a deformed state. During this process, the elastic side arms 43 on both sides move towards the central spring tongue 41 by deformation to reduce the distance between the opposite sides of the two side barbs 431, so that the side barbs 431 can pass through interference section 231. When CPA4 is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot 23, the elastic side arm 43 resets, the side barb 431 is located in the locking section 232, and the side barb 431 hooks onto the corresponding hooking surface 234. The hooking surface 234 forms a stop on the side barb 431, preventing CPA4 from being easily pulled out of the second slot 23 under external force. This avoids CPA4 from detaching from the first housing 2 before assembly, preventing CPA4 from being lost, and also facilitates direct operation of CPA4 during subsequent plug and socket assembly, improving assembly efficiency. In addition, while the side barb 431 on the elastic side arm 43 hooks onto the hooking surface 234, the inclined structure at the front end of the first boss 411 stops at the stop surface 511 to prevent CPA4 from continuing to move upward. At this time, CPA4 can neither move downward to be pulled out nor move upward to be locked. Therefore, CPA4 can be stably limited to the pre-installed position of the second slot 23.

[0052] Please see Figure 6 In some embodiments, the electrical connector further includes an expansion channel 235 and a second guide ramp 236. There are two expansion channels 235, correspondingly disposed on the inner walls of the interference section 231 near the CPA inlet 233. The width of the area passing between the two expansion channels 235 is greater than the width between the opposite sides of the two elastic side arms 43, and less than or equal to the width between the opposite sides of the two side barbs 431. The second guide ramp 236 is disposed at one end of the expansion channel 235 facing the locking section 232, and the second guide ramp 236 is configured to guide the corresponding side barb 431 to slide from the corresponding expansion channel 235 into the locking section 232.

[0053] The design of the two expansion channels 235 effectively widens the passage area at the entrance of the interference section 231, reducing the interference between the inner wall of the entrance of the interference section 231 and the side barbs 431. In the initial stage of CPA4 insertion into the second slot 23, the side barbs 431 on the two elastic side arms 43 are subjected to relatively low pressure from the side walls of the expansion channels 235. Furthermore, during the CPA4 insertion process, the second guide slope 236 can guide the corresponding side barbs 431 to slide smoothly into the locking section 232, significantly reducing the resistance during the CPA4 insertion into the second slot 23 and facilitating the insertion of CPA4.

[0054] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the electrical connector further includes a stabilizing surface 432, which is disposed on the outer rear end of the resilient side arm 43 away from the side barb 431. When the CPA4 is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot 23, at least a portion of the sidewall of the resilient side arm 43 abuts against the corresponding inner wall of the interference section 231 to limit the insertion direction of the CPA4, reduce the amount of material between the CPA4 and the second slot 23, and prevent the CPA4 from shaking. When the CPA4 is inserted into the locking position of the second slot 23, the stabilizing surface 432 matches the corresponding second guide slope 236, which significantly improves the stability and reliability of the CPA4 in the locking position and reduces the risk of the CPA4 shaking and falling out during use.

[0055] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the electrical connector also includes a positioning groove 237 (e.g., Figure 7 As shown), positioning part 422 (as shown) Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, a positioning groove 237 is provided at the CPA inlet 233, and a positioning part 422 is provided on the tail 42. When the CPA4 is inserted into the locking position of the second slot 23, the positioning part 422 fits into the positioning groove 237 to prevent the CPA4 from changing its relative position to the second slot 23 in the non-implantation direction. This effectively avoids the swinging of the CPA4 relative to the first housing 2 in the non-implantation direction, further reducing the risk of the CPA4 shaking and falling out during use. The "non-implantation direction" mentioned here refers to any direction other than the direction in which the CPA4 is implanted into the second slot 23. In this embodiment, both the second slot 23 and the first slot 21 are provided along the height direction of the first housing 2. The CPA4 is implanted into the second slot 23 from bottom to top. Thus, the non-implantation direction of the CPA4 can be any one or more of the length direction and width direction of the first housing 2.

[0056] The positioning groove 237 can be correspondingly disposed on both side walls of the CPA inlet 233, and the positioning groove 237 can be configured as an approximately "L"-shaped recessed structure. Correspondingly, the positioning part 422 can be correspondingly disposed on both sides of the tail 42, and the positioning part 422 is configured to fit into the corresponding positioning groove 237. The "L"-shaped positioning groove 237 can restrict the movement of the CPA4 relative to the first housing 2 in the length and width directions, preventing the CPA4 from shaking relative to the first housing 2 in the non-implantation direction during use, while not affecting the normal withdrawal of the CPA4 from the second slot 23 for repair along the height direction of the first housing 2 during non-use.

[0057] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 5In some embodiments, the tail portion 42 is further provided with a handheld part 423 for hand-held operation of the CPA4. A hollow structure 44 is provided between the handheld part 423 and the rear end of the spring 41 and the elastic side arm 43. The hollow structure 44 can be an elliptical hole structure, a square hole structure, an irregular hole structure, etc., and this application does not limit it. The hollow structure 44 helps to improve the elasticity of the spring 41 and the elastic side arm 43. The user can flexibly control the deformation of the spring 41 and the elastic side arm 43 by pressing or bending the handheld part 423, which significantly improves the operational flexibility and convenience of inserting and withdrawing the CPA4 from the second slot 23.

[0058] In some other embodiments, the electrical connector may further include a plug (not shown) that mates with a socket and a PCA. The plug includes a second housing, which may be made of plastic. The second housing is a male housing, i.e., the plug's housing. The second housing mates with the first housing 2. The second housing has a second terminal that mates with the first terminal 1 and a second protrusion that engages with the cross block 51 on the elastic handle 5. The second terminal is a male terminal, and the number of second terminals matches the number of first terminals 1.

[0059] In conjunction with, such as Figure 2 As shown, the upper end of the first housing 2 is provided with a second terminal inlet 218 that axially connects to the insertion section 215, and a boss inlet 238 that connects to the second slot 23 and allows the second boss to slide in and engage with the cross block 51. The end of the cross block 51 facing the sliding direction of the second boss is provided with a third guide slope 512 for guiding the second boss to engage and be fixed to one side of the stop surface 511 of the cross block 51.

[0060] In actual assembly, the first terminal 1 can be inserted into the corresponding first slot 21 of the first housing 2 firstly, and then the locking member 3 can be pressed to disconnect the connection point 311, so that the locking buckle 31 can be locked and fixed in the corresponding locking groove 22, thereby locking and fixing the inserted first terminal 1 and increasing the holding force of the first terminal 1. Subsequently or simultaneously, the CPA4 is pre-installed on the first housing 2 and inserted into the pre-installation position of the second slot 23. Then, the second housing is inserted and fixed to the first housing 2, and the second terminal is inserted into the first slot 21 through the corresponding second terminal inlet 218, so that the second terminal can be mated with the corresponding first terminal 1 to achieve a conductive connection between the plug and the socket. When the second housing is inserted and fixed to the first housing 2, and the CPA4 is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot 23, the second boss enters the second slot 23 through the boss inlet 238, and is guided by the third guide ramp 512 to engage with the hook surface 234 of the horizontal block 51. The second boss pushes the first boss 411 at the front end of the CPA4 backward to disengage from the horizontal block 51, thereby releasing the blocking effect of the horizontal block 51 on the CPA4. Then, a pushing force is applied to the CPA4 to make it continue to be inserted upward into the locking position of the second slot 23, so that the first boss 411 moves upward past the horizontal block 51 and the stepped structure 421 moves upward to stop in the movable range between the elastic handle 5 and the first housing 2. After CPA4 is inserted into the locking position of the second slot 23, the stabilizing surface 432 matches the corresponding second guide slope 236, the positioning part 422 matches the corresponding positioning groove 237, and the stepped structure 421 stops in the movable range formed between the elastic handle 5 and the second slot 23, thus realizing the secondary locking function of the socket and plug and ensuring the connection reliability of the electrical connector.

[0061] The above description is merely an embodiment of this utility model and does not limit the patent scope of this utility model. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the content of this utility model specification, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A socket, characterized in that, include: The first terminal (1) is provided with a locking slot (11) and a limiting spring (12). A first housing (2) is provided with a first slot (21). The first slot (21) is provided with a clearance channel (211) for the limiting spring (12) to pass through in a non-deformed state and a limiting slot (212) for the limiting spring (12) to be inserted into. The end of the clearance channel (211) is provided with a first guide slope (213) to guide the limiting spring (12) to slide elastically into the limiting slot (212). The first housing (2) is provided with a locking groove (22) communicating with the first slot (21). The locking opening (11) is exposed in the locking groove (22). A locking member (3) is connected to the first housing (2). The locking member (3) is provided with a locking buckle (31). The locking buckle (31) can be snapped and fixed in the locking groove (22) and stopped in the locking opening (11).

2. The socket of claim 1, wherein The locking member (3) is elastically connected to the first housing (2); in the initial state, the locking buckle (31) is connected to the entrance end of the locking groove (22) through the connection point (311), and the connection point (311) is configured to be disconnected under the action of external force so that the locking buckle (31) can be pressed to be snapped and fixed in the locking groove (22).

3. The socket of claim 1, wherein The first terminal (1) includes a crimping section (13) and a plug-in section (14) in sequence along the axial direction. The locking opening (11) is provided at the connection between the crimping section (13) and the plug-in section (14). The plug-in section (14) is provided with a foolproof part (15). The limiting spring (12) is provided on the outer wall of the foolproof part (15) and extends outward at an angle.

4. The socket of claim 3, wherein The first slot (21) includes a crimping section (214) and a plugging section (215) in sequence along the axial direction. The crimping section (214) passes through one end of the first housing (2) and forms a first terminal inlet (216) for the first terminal (1) to be inserted axially. The clearance channel (211) is located on the inner wall of the crimping section (214); the inner wall of the insertion section (215) is provided with a mis-proof groove (217) that connects the clearance channel (211) and allows the mis-proof part (15) to be inserted; the first guide slope (213) connects the clearance channel (211) and the mis-proof groove (217).

5. An electrical connector, characterized by Including the socket as described in any one of claims 1-4, and: CPA (4), the CPA (4) includes a spring (41) and a tail (42), the end of the spring (41) is provided with a first boss (411), and the tail (42) is provided with a stepped structure (421). A second slot (23) is disposed on the first housing (2), the second slot (23) is engaged with the CPA (4), the second slot (23) is configured to limit the CPA (4) in a pre-installed position and allow the CPA (4) to continue to be inserted into the locking position; The elastic handle (5) is elastically connected to the first housing (2). The elastic handle (5) is provided with a horizontal block (51). The horizontal block (51) has a concave stop surface (511) at one end facing the insertion direction of the CPA (4). When the CPA (4) is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot (23), the end of the first boss (411) stops at the stop surface (511); when the CPA (4) is inserted into the locked position of the second slot (23), the first boss (411) passes over the cross block (51) and the step structure (421) stops in the moving range between the elastic handle (5) and the first housing (2).

6. The electrical connector of claim 5, wherein, The second slot (23) includes an interference section (231) and a locking section (232) in sequence along the axial direction. The interference section (231) passes through one end of the first housing (2) and forms a CPA inlet (233) for axial insertion of the CPA (4). The end of the elastic handle (5) faces the CPA inlet (233) and forms the active range between it and the interference section (231). The width of the interference section (231) is smaller than the width of the locking section (232), and the two sides of the locking section (232) and the interference section (231) are respectively provided with a hooking surface (234) that is inclined towards the CPA entrance (233).

7. The electrical connector of claim 6, wherein, The CPA (4) also includes: The elastic side arms (43) are respectively disposed on both sides of the spring tongue (41) and have a deformation space between them. Each elastic side arm (43) has a side barb (431) extending away from the spring tongue (41) at its end. The interference section (231) interferes with the side barb (431), and the interference section (231) is configured to allow the elastic side arm (43) to pass through in a deformed state; when the CPA (4) is inserted into the pre-installed position of the second slot (23), the elastic side arm (43) is reset, the side barb (431) is located in the locking section (232), and the side barb (431) hooks onto the corresponding hooking surface (234).

8. The electrical connector of claim 7, wherein, The second slot (23) also includes: Expansion channels (235) are respectively set on the inner walls of the two sides of the interference section (231) near the CPA inlet (233). The width between the two expansion channels (235) is greater than the width between the opposite sides of the two elastic side arms (43) and less than or equal to the width between the opposite sides of the two side barbs (431). The second guide ramp (236) is respectively disposed at one end of the expansion channel (235) facing the locking section (232). The second guide ramp (236) is configured to guide the corresponding side barb (431) to elastically slide into the locking section (232) from the corresponding expansion channel (235).

9. The electrical connector of claim 6, wherein, Also includes: A positioning groove (237) is provided at the CPA inlet (233); A positioning part (422) is arranged on the tail part (42), and when the CPA (4) is inserted into the locking position of the second slot (23), the positioning part (422) is fitted in the positioning groove (237).

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