Connection position lock for an electrical connector

Abstract

Connection position locking device (1) for an electrical connector (2), wherein the TPA device (1) comprises: an arrangement body (10) configured to be attached to an electrical connector housing (20), and a locking body (30) comprising at least one locking element (32) extending from the locking body (30) and corresponding to a terminal receiving cavity (22) within the electrical connector housing (20), characterized by the fact that the locking body (30) is connected to the arrangement body (10) by means of a hinge element (40), wherein a first position of the hinge element (40) defines an open state of the TPA device (1) in which the locking element (32) is not operable to engage a connection within the connection receiving cavity (22), and a second position of the hinge element (40) defines a closed state of the TPA device (1) in which the locking element (32) can be operated to engage a connection within the connection receiving cavity (22).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] This disclosure relates to a terminal position locking (TPA) device for an electrical connector. This disclosure also relates to a kit comprising an electrical connector and at least one separate TPA device, and to an arrangement comprising an electrical connector and at least one TPA device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the field of electrical connectors, it is common to use mechanisms known as terminal position locking (TPA) devices, which ensure that electrical terminals are correctly and securely positioned within a connector housing. A TPA is crucial for maintaining reliable electrical connections, especially in applications where connectors are subject to vibration or other mechanical stresses. Common electrical connectors typically incorporate TPAs ​​that are either integral parts of the connector housing or permanently attached to it. A TPA has an open position and can be closed by moving it into a second position. In the closed position, a TPA typically extends into terminal receiving cavities within the connector housing to engage the electrical terminals contained therein.This design ensures that the electrical connections remain securely in their respective cavities, thus preventing disconnections or electrical failures.

[0003] Despite the widespread use of TPAs ​​in electrical connectors, known TPAs ​​lack flexibility. Typically, a connector housing accommodates a specific type of TPA. This lack of flexibility can be problematic in various applications, particularly when connectors need to be adapted to different configurations or when maintenance and repairs require a new TPA. Additionally, the rigid nature of these TPAs ​​can complicate the connector manufacturing process, as they require precise alignment and fastening during assembly, potentially increasing manufacturing costs and time.

[0004] Furthermore, the increasing demand for connectors capable of handling higher voltages presents additional challenges for TPAs. Higher voltages necessitate the introduction of dielectric materials between the terminals within the housing to provide insulation and ensure safe operation. However, a connector housing with a fixed TPA limits the connector to specific voltage ranges, restricting its versatility and applicability in various high-voltage scenarios. This limitation can be particularly problematic in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment, where connectors must meet stringent electrical and mechanical requirements.

[0005] Therefore, one of the technical problems underlying the present invention is to provide a TPA device that at least partially overcomes the disadvantages of known systems. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is an object of this invention to provide a connection position locking device that overcomes one or more of the disadvantages of known systems.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention provides a terminal position securing (TPA) device for an electrical connector, wherein the TPA device comprises: an arrangement body configured to be attached to an electrical connector housing, and a locking body having at least one locking element extending from the locking body and corresponding to a terminal receiving cavity within the electrical connector housing.The locking element is connected to the assembly body by means of a hinge element, wherein a first position of the hinge element defines an open state of the TPA device in which the locking element is not operable to engage a connection within the connection receiving cavity (when mounted on the connector housing), and a second position of the hinge element defines a closed state of the TPA device in which the locking element is operable to engage a connection within the connection receiving cavity.

[0008] The advantage of this design is that it provides a separate TPA with a hinge mechanism for electrical connectors, allowing the device to be pre-assembled on an electrical connector housing and supplied to wiring harness manufacturers, or supplied separately. This increases flexibility in TPA design, as it can be mounted separately on an electrical connector. Both the assembly body and the locking body can be designed more flexibly to be optimized for the intended task.

[0009] In general, the material for the TPA is preferably a dielectric material, and in particular a dielectric thermoplastic material. The most preferred method for manufacturing the TPA according to the invention is injection molding the TPA as a single, integral part. Of course, other manufacturing methods or materials are not excluded and are equally possible.

[0010] In a first embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the locking body can comprise a plurality of locking elements.

[0011] This design enhances the functionality of the TPA device by enabling the engagement of multiple terminals within the terminal receptacles of the electrical connector housing. The communication mechanism between components involves the interaction between the multiple locking elements and the terminal receptacles. The locking elements are designed to correspond to the cavities, ensuring that each element can securely engage a terminal when the TPA device is closed. The hinge element facilitates the transition between the open and closed states of the TPA device. In the open state, the hinge element positions the locking body so that the locking elements are inaccessible for engaging the terminals.Conversely, in the closed state, the hinge element aligns the locking body so that the locking elements can effectively engage the connections.

[0012] The introduction of multiple locking elements brings several advantages to the TPA device. It increases the reliability of the connection in engagement by providing multiple contact points, which can enhance the overall stability and safety of the electrical connection. This is particularly beneficial in applications where multiple connections are used and need to be secured simultaneously. The variety of locking elements also allows for greater flexibility in the design of the electrical connector housing, as it can accommodate various configurations of terminal receiving cavities. Furthermore, the presence of multiple locking elements can contribute to redundancy in the locking mechanism, ensuring that even if one element fails to properly engage a terminal, others can compensate, thus maintaining the integrity of the connection.Overall, the addition of a variety of locking elements to the locking body significantly increases the operational capabilities of the TPA device, providing a more robust and versatile solution for securing connections within electrical connectors.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the locking elements can be locking teeth.

[0014] The locking teeth are designed to interact with the terminals within the terminal receptacle cavity in a more secure and reliable manner, ensuring that the terminals are properly engaged and held within the connector housing. This reduces the risk of terminal displacement or incorrect connection. Locking teeth are also particularly suitable for isolating multiple electrical terminals within the housing, as they can fill the space between them. This allows the locking teeth to fill the free space within the terminal receptacle cavity not occupied by electrical terminals, preferably providing a dielectric material between the terminals.This improvement is particularly relevant in applications where secure electrical connections at higher voltages (such as 48 V) are critical, such as in automotive or industrial electrical systems, where vibrations and other environmental factors could otherwise compromise the integrity of the connections. By specifying the locking elements as locking teeth, the embodiment ensures that the terminal position locking device can provide consistent and reliable performance, thereby increasing the overall effectiveness and usability of the electrical connector system.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the device according to the first aspect, the locking element can be a locking blade.

[0016] Unlike other possible locking elements, such as teeth or clips, the locking blade provides an elongated contact surface that can simultaneously engage multiple electrical terminals within the terminal receptacles of a connector housing in a secure and stable manner. The positions of the hinge element define the operating states of the TPA device: the open state disables the locking blade, while the closed state allows the locking blade to engage the terminal. Introducing the locking blade as the locking element enhances the functionality of the TPA device by potentially providing a more robust locking mechanism.This improvement results in enhanced performance when securing connections within the electrical connector housing, ensuring that the connections remain in their intended positions and reducing the risk of disconnection or electrical faults. The specific design of the locking blade may be particularly suitable for lower-voltage applications (such as 12 V) where no additional material needs to be placed in a free space between multiple electrical connections. In summary, specifying the locking element as a locking blade introduces a novel feature that refines the functionality of the locking mechanism, potentially offering more secure engagement, improved performance, and enhanced manufacturing and assembly efficiency.

[0017] In another embodiment of the device, the assembly body can include a fastening element configured to attach the assembly body to an electrical connector housing.

[0018] The introduction of a fastening element provides a specific mechanism for securing the assembly body to the electrical connector housing of an electrical connector. This feature ensures that the assembly body remains firmly attached to the housing, which can be advantageous for maintaining the operational integrity of the terminal position locking device. By integrating a fastening element, the embodiment addresses potential problems associated with movement or displacement of the assembly body, which could lead to improper engagement of the locking element with the terminal. The fastening element can improve communication between the assembly body and the electrical connector housing by providing a secure fastening mechanism that is beneficial for the proper functioning of the hinge element and the locking body.This secure fastening facilitates the transition between the open and closed states of the device, ensuring that the locking element can engage and disengage connections as required.

[0019] The fastening element can be a snap hook configured to engage with a receptacle on the electrical connector housing.

[0020] The integration of a latching hook as the fastening element provides a secure and reliable fastening means, ensuring that the TPA device can be easily mounted to the housing and remains firmly in place once installed. The communication mechanism between the latching hook and the receptacle ensures that the TPA device can smoothly transition between its open and closed states, as defined by the positions of the hinge element.

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

[0022] The communication mechanism between the components of this embodiment enhances the functionality of the TPA device by ensuring that the hinge element remains in the closed position, thus allowing the locking element to engage a terminal within the terminal receptacle cavity. The locking element provides an additional level of security and stability for the positioning of the hinge element, preventing accidental disengagement or movement that could compromise the connection of the terminal within the electrical connector housing. By engaging with the electrical connector housing, the locking element acts as a physical barrier or latch that holds the hinge element in its closed position, thereby ensuring the reliability and integrity of the engaged terminal.This feature addresses potential problems associated with the movement of the hinge element and adds a safeguard to ensure that the TPA device functions correctly while maintaining the connector's position. This improvement is particularly relevant in applications where the electrical connector may be subject to vibrations, movement, or other external forces that could otherwise cause the hinge element to shift from its closed position.

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

[0024] The assembly body can be designed to be attached to the electrical connector housing via a connecting axis, ensuring precise alignment for the fastening process. This feature guarantees that the assembly body is accurately positioned relative to the electrical connector housing, facilitating a reliable connection. Furthermore, the hinge axis of the hinge element is located in a plane perpendicular to the connecting axis. Positioning the hinge axis in a perpendicular plane allows the hinge element to pivot more effectively, providing a clear distinction between the open and closed states of the TPA device.In the open position, the locking element cannot be operated to engage a port within the port receiving cavity, whereas in the closed position, the locking element can be operated to engage a port within the port receiving cavity. This perpendicular arrangement of the hinge axis allows for more controlled and precise movement of the hinge element, thereby improving the overall functionality and reliability of the TPA device.

[0025] In a further improvement, the hinge element can be a film hinge.

[0026] A film hinge (also known as a film hinge) is a thin, flexible hinge made from the same material as the assembly body, the locking body, and the hinge element itself. The material is preferably a polymer, such as a plastic. Using a film hinge offers several advantages for the TPA (Total Process Assembly) device. First, by being made from the same material, the film hinge allows for seamless integration of the hinge element with the other components, ensuring consistency in material properties such as flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. This consistency can lead to more reliable performance of the hinge element, as it reduces the risk of material incompatibility or failure at the interfaces between different materials.Furthermore, the film hinge provides a cost-effective solution by eliminating the need for additional components or materials to create the hinge mechanism, simplifying the manufacturing process, and reducing production costs. The film hinge also enhances the ease of assembly and operation of the TPA device. Its inherent flexibility allows for a smooth transition between the open and closed states of the device, facilitating engagement and release of the locking element with the connector within the connector receptacle. This flexibility can improve the user experience by simplifying the handling and operation of the device, particularly in applications requiring frequent adjustments.Additionally, the use of plastic as the preferred material for the film hinge and other components can offer advantages such as lightweight construction, dielectric properties, corrosion resistance and the ability to be cast into complex shapes, further improving the design possibilities and functionality of the connection position locking device.

[0027] In a further improvement, at least one locking element can correspond to the connection receiving cavity, so that the locking element in the second position of the hinge element can fill the cavity to at least 70%.

[0028] The embodiment incorporates a specific communication mechanism between the locking element and the terminal receiving cavity within the electrical connector housing. In the second position of the hinge element, the locking element can be designed to correspond to the terminal receiving cavity in such a way that it fills at least 70%, preferably 80%, and more preferably 90% of the free space within the cavity. This free space is not occupied by the installed terminals or other components. This feature improves the functionality and reliability of the TPA device by ensuring a more secure engagement between the locking element and the terminal within the cavity.The precise fit between the locking element and the cavity ensures that the connection is held firmly in place, providing a higher level of reliability and ensuring a stable and secure electrical connection. Specifically, by essentially filling the cavities between the terminals, a dielectric material is introduced, enhancing signal integrity. The more the locking element fills the cavity, the less free space there is between multiple electrical terminals, which can be particularly advantageous in higher-voltage applications.

[0029] In a further improvement, the device can also include a fragile support element that connects the locking body to the arrangement body, so that the hinge element is held in the first position.

[0030] The embodiment introduces a breakable support element as an additional component in the TPA device. This breakable support element serves as a temporary connection between the locking body and the assembly body, effectively holding the hinge element in its initial position. The breakable support element thus acts as a mechanism to keep the hinge element in the open state until a predetermined condition requires its transition to the closed state. The introduction of the breakable support element brings several new features and advantages to the TPA device. First, it provides a mechanism for a controlled transition of the hinge element from the open to the closed state.This ensures that the locking element remains detached from the connector until the breakable support element is intentionally broken or otherwise removed, allowing the hinge element to move into its second position. In the closed position, the locking element becomes operable to engage a connector within the connector receptacle cavity, thus securing the connector in place. The breakable support element therefore improves the reliability and functionality of the connector position locking device by preventing premature engagement of the locking element with the connector. Furthermore, the breakable support element introduces a fail-safe feature to the device.In scenarios where the connector position locking device must remain in the open position for extended periods, the breakable support element ensures that the hinge element does not unintentionally move into the closed position. This is particularly advantageous in applications where the electrical connector may be subject to vibrations or other external forces that could otherwise cause unintended movement of the hinge element. Additionally, the breakable support element can be designed to break under specific conditions, such as the application of a certain amount of force or pressure, thus providing a controlled and predictable mechanism for moving the device into its closed position.

[0031] In a further improvement, the assembly body, the locking body and the fragile support element can be formed in one piece.

[0032] This feature significantly improves the TPA device for an electrical connector by ensuring that all primary components are integrally molded, eliminating the need for separate assembly processes and reducing the potential for misalignment or mechanical failure between parts. Communication between components is inherently streamlined, as the molding process ensures that the array body, locking body, and fragile support element are precisely positioned relative to each other from the outset. This integral molding enhances the structural integrity of the TPA device, providing a more robust and reliable mechanism for securing the connection position.The one-piece molding also contributes to the ease of installation and maintenance of the TPA device, as there are fewer parts to manage and align during attachment to the electrical connector housing.

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

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

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

[0036] The separate TPA device ensures and verifies that the connectors are correctly positioned within the cavities, providing a secondary locking mechanism to prevent displacement or misalignment. This device can be pre-assembled or supplied separately to harness manufacturers, offering flexibility in design and assembly processes.

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

[0038] In a first embodiment of the arrangement according to the third aspect, the hinge element of each TPA device is in the first position and the locking body of each TPA device is configured to prevent movement of the TPA device along the connection axis by making contact with a contact point on the electrical connector housing.

[0039] This configuration ensures that the TPA device remains securely attached to the electrical connector housing and prevents unintentional final connection until the hinge element is in its second position. The interaction between the locking body and the contact point ensures that the TPA device cannot move freely along the connection axis until the hinge element is in its second position.

[0040] This embodiment is particularly suitable for supplying cable harness manufacturers, since after equipping the connector with an electrical connection they only need to move the hinge element into the second position so that the TPA device can be connected to the housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. Figure 1 shows a prior art TPA device attached to an electrical connector housing and a separate view of the locking body; Fig. Figure 2 shows another state-of-the-art electrical connector housing with an integrated TPA; Fig. Figure 3 shows embodiments of TPA devices with a locking blade and locking teeth according to the invention; Fig. Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a TPA device made of Fig. 3, which is attached to an electrical connector housing; Fig. 5: shows the embodiment from Fig. 4 in another view showing two TPA devices attached to the housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0041] Fig. Figure 1 shows a TPA device as known in the prior art. The TPA device is shown in two views: one attached to an electrical connector housing 20, and the other as a standalone component. The electrical connector housing 20 is part of an electrical connector 2, which includes several terminal receiving cavities 22. These cavities are designed to receive and secure electrical contact connections.

[0042] The known TPA device comprises an arrangement body 10 and a locking body 30, which are arranged in a U-shaped configuration. The arrangement body 10 is configured to be attached to the electrical connector housing 20. The locking body 30 has a plurality of locking elements 32. These locking elements 32 are arranged in a manner corresponding to the terminal receiving cavities 22 within the electrical connector housing 20. The operating principle of such a TPA is generally known to those skilled in the art, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0043] Fig. Figure 2 shows an integrated TPA as known in the prior art. The electrical connector 2 is shown with an electrical connector housing 20. The housing 20 includes connection receiving cavities 22 designed to accommodate electrical connections. The TPA is integrated within the housing 20.

[0044] The housing 20 is shown with a pair of flexible locking arms 26, which form the TPA and extend outwards from the sides of the housing. These locking arms 26 are designed to engage with corresponding features on the connector housing 20 to ensure a secure connection. The locking arms 26 are typically made of an elastic material that allows them to flex and snap into place when the connectors are joined. The locking arms 26 are flexibly connected to the connector housing 20 by means of a connecting section 28. Again, the operating principle of such integrated TPAs ​​is generally known to those skilled in the art, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0045] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates two embodiments of a TPA device 1 designed to be attached to an electrical connector 2. The assembly body 10 forms the main structural element and provides the frame to which other components are attached. This assembly body 10 is configured to be attached to an electrical connector housing 20, ensuring stability and proper alignment of the device.

[0046] The locking body 30 is attached to the assembly body 10 (integrally formed with it in the illustrated embodiments) and has several locking elements 32. These locking elements 32 are designed to correspond with terminal receiving cavities 22 within the electrical connector housing 20, ensuring secure engagement with terminals when the device is in the closed state. The left embodiment includes a locking element in the form of a locking blade, whereas the right embodiment includes several locking elements 32 in the form of locking teeth.

[0047] The hinge element 40 connects the locking body 30 to the assembly body 10, facilitating movement between an open and a closed state. In the open state, the locking elements 32 are not engaged with the terminals, allowing terminals to be inserted into or removed from the connector housing. Conversely, in the closed state, the hinge element 40 positions the locking body 30 so that the locking elements 32 engage the terminals, securing them within the terminal receiving cavities.

[0048] The fastening element 50 is shown as a snap hook configured to engage with a receptacle 24 on the electrical connector housing 20. This engagement ensures that the assembly body 10 is securely attached to the connector housing, thus preventing accidental loosening or misalignment during operation.

[0049] Additionally, the locking element 60 is shown as part of the locking body 30. This component is designed to secure the hinge element 40 in the closed position by engaging with the electrical connector housing 20. This engagement prevents the hinge element 40 from unintentionally moving into the open position, thus maintaining the secure engagement of the connections.

[0050] A breakable support element 80 is also shown, which connects the locking body 30 to the assembly body 10. This breakable support element 80 holds the hinge element 40 in the initial position, thus facilitating initial assembly and handling of the device. Once the device is ready for operation, the breakable support element 80 can be broken to allow movement of the hinge element into the closed position.

[0051] Fig. Figure 4 shows an electrical connector 2 equipped with two TPA devices 1, one of which (left) is already mounted on the housing and the other (right) is not yet mounted. The assembly body 10 of the TPA device 1 is configured to be secured to the electrical connector housing 20, and the locking body 30 has at least one locking element 32 (see Figure 4). Fig. 3) openings in the housing 20 that provide access to the connector receiving cavity 22 inside the housing 20.

[0052] The assembly body 10 is attached to the electrical connector housing 20 by first clamping it along a connecting axis 70 and then sliding it downwards along the connecting axis 74. The hinge axis 72 of the hinge element 40 is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the connecting axis 74, allowing the hinge element 40 to pivot between the open and closed positions. The connecting axis 74 is the axis along which the connector 2 is moved to connect with a corresponding mating connector (not shown).

[0053] In both Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows the hinge element 40 as a film hinge, indicating that the assembly body 10, the locking body 30 and the hinge element 40 are integrally made of the same material, preferably injection-molded plastic.

[0054] The locking element 32 is designed to correspond to the connector receiving cavity 22 such that, in the closed state, the locking element 32 fills at least 70%, preferably 80%, and more preferably 90% of the free space in the cavity 22, i.e., the space not occupied by the connectors or other components. This ensures secure engagement with the connector within the cavity 22 and can improve signal integrity.

[0055] The arrangement body 10, the locking body 30 and the fragile support element 80, shown in the preferred embodiments, are injection molded in one piece, providing a seamless and integrated design for the TPA device 1.

[0056] Fig. Figure 5 shows the embodiment from Fig. 4 in a side view, wherein the TPA devices 1 are attached to the electrical connector 2. Together the electrical connector 2 and the TPA devices 1 form an arrangement 1000.

[0057] The mounting body 10 of each TPA device 1 is attached to the electrical connector housing 20 by first clamping the mounting body 10 to the housing along the connection axis 70. In this state, the locking body 30 of each TPA device 1 prevents movement of the TPA device 1 along the connection axis 74 by making contact with a contact point 100 on the electrical connector housing 20. This prevents movement along the connection axis 74.

[0058] The hinge element 40 is arranged with a hinge axis 72 that is perpendicular to the connecting axis 74 and the connecting axis 70. This perpendicular arrangement enables the pivoting action of the hinge element 40, thereby facilitating the transition between the open and closed states.

[0059] Fig.Figure 5 further illustrates the TPA devices 1 in both the open (left) and closed (right) states, showing how the locking elements 32 engage in the terminal receiving cavities 22 when closed. The hinge element 40 is shown to pivot about the hinge axis 74, facilitating the transition between states. When moved into the closed state, each TPA device 1 slides downwards along the connecting axis 74, creating a free space 90. In other words, the TPA device 1 is closed into its final position along the axis 70, causing the locking body 30 to contact the contact surface on which the contact point 100 is located, thus preventing further movement along the axis 74.

Claims

[1] Terminal position locking device (1) for an electrical connector (2), wherein the TPA device (1) comprises: an arrangement body (10) configured to be attached to an electrical connector housing (20), and a locking body (30) comprising at least one locking element (32) extending from the locking body (30) and corresponding to a terminal receiving cavity (22) within the electrical connector housing (20), characterized by , that the locking body (30) is connected to the arrangement body (10) by means of a hinge element (40), wherein a first position of the hinge element (40) defines an open state of the TPA device (1) in which the locking element (32) is not operable to engage a connection within the connection receiving cavity (22), and a second position of the hinge element (40) defines a closed state of the TPA device (1) in which the locking element (32) can be operated to engage a connection within the connection receiving cavity (22). [2] TPA device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the locking body (30) comprises a plurality of locking elements (32). [3] TPA device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the locking elements (32) are locking teeth. [4] TPA device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the locking element (32) is a locking blade. [5] TPA device (1) according to one of claims 1-4, wherein the arrangement body (10) comprises a fastening element (50) configured to fasten the arrangement body (10) to an electrical connector housing (20). [6] TPA device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the fastening element (50) is a latching hook configured to engage with a receptacle (24) on the electrical connector housing (20). [7] TPA device (1) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the locking body (30) comprises a locking element (60) configured to secure the hinge element (40) in the second position by engaging with the electrical connector housing (20). [8] TPA device (1) according to one of claims 1-7, wherein the arrangement body (10) is configured to be attached to the electrical connector housing (20) via a connecting axis (74), and wherein a hinge axis (72) of the hinge element (40) is arranged in a plane perpendicular to the connecting axis (74). [9] TPA device (1) according to one of claims 1-8, wherein the hinge element (40) is a film hinge, such that the arrangement body (10), the locking body (30) and the hinge element (40) are all made of the same material, preferably plastic. [10] TPA device (1) according to one of claims 1-9, wherein the at least one locking element (32) corresponds to the connection receiving cavity (22), such that in the second position of the hinge element (40) the locking element (32) fills the free space in the cavity (22) by at least 70%, preferably 80% and more preferably 90%. [11] TPA device (1) according to any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a breakable support element (80) that connects the locking body (30) to the arrangement body (10) so that the hinge element (40) is held in the first position, preferably wherein the breakable support element (80) connects the locking element (80) to the arrangement body (10). [12] TPA device (1) according to claim 11, wherein the arrangement body (10), the locking body (30) and the breakable support element (80) are formed in one piece. [13] Kit, including: an electrical connector (2) comprising an electrical connector housing (20) with at least one connection receiving cavity (22), and a separate connection position securing, TPA, device (1) according to any one of claims 1-12. [14] Arrangement (1000), comprising: an electrical connector (2) comprising an electrical connector housing (20) with at least one connection receiving cavity (22), and at least one connection position securing, TPA, device (1) according to one of claims 1-12, wherein the TPA device (1) is attached to the electrical connector housing (20). [15] Arrangement according to claim 14, wherein the hinge element (40) of each TPA device (1) is in the first position and the locking body (30) of each TPA device (1) is configured to prevent movement of the TPA device (1) along the connecting axis (74) by making contact with a contact point (100) on the electrical connector housing (20).

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