Lever actuated cap design with flap lock design

Abstract

An electrical connector assembly comprises a connector housing; a mate assist member being movable from a preliminary mating position to a fully mated position to facilitate the mating process of the connector housing with a corresponding counter connector; and a connector position assurance (CPA) member arranged movable on the connector housing between a first and a second position, which connector position assurance member is adapted to lock the mate assist member in its fully mated position when the connector position assurance (CPA) member is in its second position.

Description

1. Field of the invention

[0001] This invention relates to an electrical connector assembly with a slidable connector position assurance (CPA) member.2. Background

[0002] The invention relates to electrical connector assemblies, particularly those used in applications where secure and reliable connections are important, such as automotive systems. Electrical connectors often experience environmental stresses, such as vibrations, impacts, and temperature changes, which can lead to unintended disconnections. To address this, many connectors incorporate features like mate assist mechanisms to simplify the mating process and Connector Position Assurance (CPA) members to ensure secure and resistant connections.

[0003] One key problem faced in conventional electrical connectors is ensuring the connectors remain fully and securely mated even under adverse conditions. While many connectors offer assistance in the mating process, there is a need for a mechanism that both ensures proper mating and prevents unintended disconnection after the connection is made. Additionally, existing designs may lack user-friendly features, such as easy release mechanisms or clear visual indicators of full mating, which complicates assembly, maintenance, and repair processes.

[0004] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for an improved electrical connector assembly. It is thus an object of the present invention to overcome some or all the deficiencies of the prior art.3. Summary

[0005] The above objects are at least partially achieved by the subject matter of independent claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims, and the skilled person will find clues to other suitable aspects of the present invention in the overall disclosure of the present application.

[0006] An aspect of the invention relates to an electrical connector assembly comprising: a connector housing; a mate assist member being movable from a preliminary mating position to a fully mated position to facilitate the mating process of the connector housing with a corresponding counter connector; and a connector position assurance (CPA) member arranged movable on the connector housing between a first and a second position, which connector position assurance (CPA) member is adapted to lock the mate assist member in its fully mated position when the connector position assurance (CPA) member is in its second position.

[0007] With such an assembly, the mate assist member provides a mechanical advantage during the mating process, ensuring a smoother and more reliable connection between the two connectors. The CPA member enhances safety by preventing accidental disconnection, ensuring that the connectors remain securely mated even under external stresses. This design is beneficial in automotive environments where reliable electrical connections are important.

[0008] Further improvement is achieved when the CPA member comprises first latching members that engage holding portions on the connector housing to releasably hold the CPA member in the first position on the housing and which first latching members are adapted to be released from said holding portions upon actuating of the mate assist member.

[0009] Such a configuration can ensure that the CPA member remains securely in its initial position during the early stages of the connection process. The design allows the CPA member to only transition once the mate assist member is in fully mated position, simplifying the mating process and ensuring a reliable lock at the fully mated position. This feature improves ease of use and ensures a secure and resistant connection.

[0010] Further improvement can be achieved when the mate assist member comprises a rotary lever having a release portion adapted to release the first latching members from engaging the holding portions.

[0011] With such an assembly the rotary lever provides a mechanical advantage by being rotatable to assist in the mating process. As the lever is actuated, its release portion automatically disengages the CPA's latching members from the housing, allowing the CPA member to be movable into the second position. This mechanism simplifies the mating process and reduces the manual effort required for connection, making it especially useful in tight or hard-to-reach spaces. The rotary lever design also ensures a more precise and secure locking mechanism, enhancing the reliability of the connection.

[0012] Further improvement is achieved when the connector housing comprises a flexible snap to engage with a snap counterpart on the mate assist member when the mate assist device is in its fully mated position.

[0013] With such an assembly the flexible snap provides an additional layer of security by creating a physical locking engagement once the connectors are fully mated. As the mate assist member moves into position, the flexible snap automatically connects with its counterpart, ensuring the connectors remain firmly in place. This design enhances the stability of the connection, preventing accidental disconnection due to vibration or other external forces.

[0014] Further improvement is achieved when the CPA member comprises a blocking face configured to block the flexible snap of the connector housing when the CPA member is in its second position.

[0015] With such an assembly the blocking face of the CPA member ensures that, once the CPA member is in its locked position, the flexible snap cannot be disengaged. This adds an extra level of security, preventing accidental or unintentional disconnection of the fully mated connectors.

[0016] Further improvement is achieved when the CPA member comprises a locking portion, configured to lock the mate assist member in its finally mated position, when the CPA member is in its second position, preferably by being in direct contact with a surface of the mate assist member.

[0017] With such an assembly the locking portion provides a physical engagement between the CPA member and the mate assist member, ensuring that the connection remains firmly secured. By locking the mate assist member in place, the CPA member prevents any unintended movement or disconnection after full mating is achieved. This design adds an additional layer of reliability and security.

[0018] Further improvement is achieved when the CPA member comprises one first and second position locking element, configured to engage with a first stop member of the housing when in the first position and to engage with a second stop member of the housing when in the second position.

[0019] With such an assembly this first and second position locking element ensures that the CPA member is securely held in both the first and second positions, preventing unintended movement during the connection process. When the CPA member transitions from the first to the second position, it engages with the second stop member, ensuring a secure lock. This precise control of CPA member movement enhances the reliability and safety of the assembly.

[0020] This can be further improved when the CPA member comprises a release and holding mechanism, adapted to hold the CPA in its respective first and second positions, wherein the release and holding mechanism comprises a flexible arm and the first and second position locking element is arranged on the flexible arm; wherein preferably the flexible arm comprises a tapered, substantially triangular cross-section.

[0021] With such an assembly the flexible arm allows for controlled movement of the CPA member between its two positions. The triangular cross-section provides structural strength while maintaining flexibility, ensuring the first and second position locking element securely engages the stop members in both positions. This design enhances the reliability of the CPA's locking and release mechanism, preventing accidental disengagement while simplifying manual or automated actuation.

[0022] This can be further improved when the flexible arm is adapted to be bent such that upon bending the flexible arm, the first and second position locking element disengages from the first or the second stop member, so that the CPA member is movable between the first and second position.

[0023] With such an embodiment this bending mechanism provides a simple yet effective way to control the movement of the CPA member. The flexibility of the arm enables smooth transitioning between positions while ensuring that the CPA remains securely locked when not bent. This feature is advantageous in environments where repeated connection cycles occur, as it allows for easy manual or automated adjustments while maintaining a secure connection once the CPA member is in its desired position.

[0024] This can be further improved when the flexible arm comprises a recess configured to be pushed by means of a tool or an assembler's finger to disengage the first and second position locking element from the first or the second stop member, so that the CPA member is movable between the first and second position.

[0025] With such an assembly the recess on the flexible arm allows for easy and precise manipulation of the CPA member. This design ensures that the CPA can be easily moved when necessary, without the need for specialized tools, enhancing ease of assembly and maintenance. The ability to push the recess with either a tool or finger adds flexibility for the user, making it ideal for use in settings where quick and secure adjustments maybe required during installation or servicing.

[0026] This can be further improved when the first stop member prevents movement from the first to the second position and from the second to the first position of the CPA member, unless release and holding mechanism of the CPA member is actuated.

[0027] With such an assembly the first stop member provides a reliable locking mechanism that secures the CPA member in place, preventing unintended movement. The release and holding mechanism, such as the flexible arm with the recess, must be deliberately engaged to allow the CPA member to transition between positions. This design enhances safety and reliability, ensuring that the connector remains securely mated and the CPA member stays in the desired position unless purposely adjusted.

[0028] Further improvement is achieved when the release portion comprises a half moon shape, configured to engage with the first latching members to release the first latching members from the holding portions.

[0029] With such an assembly the half-moon shape of the release portion provides a smooth and efficient mechanism for disengaging the latching members. As the release portion rotates or moves into position, its curved surface interacts with the latching members, allowing for easy release from the holding portions. This design not only simplifies the operation of the connector but also ensures reliable and consistent disengagement of the latches, enhancing ease of use.

[0030] Further improvement is achieved when the CPA member blocks a movement of the mate assist member when in the second position and allows movement of the mate assist member when in the first position.

[0031] With such an assembly, such a functionality ensures that once the CPA member is in the second position, the mate assist member is securely locked, preventing any further movement and thus ensuring that the connectors remain fully mated. When the CPA is in its first position, the mate assist member is allowed to move, facilitating the connection or disconnection process.

[0032] Further improvement is achieved when the CPA member is adapted to be manually releasable from the second position.

[0033] With such an assembly the manual release mechanism enhances user convenience, allowing easy operation without the need for specialized tools. The ability to manually release the CPA ensures flexibility in handling the connector while maintaining the overall security of the system when in its locked position.

[0034] Further improvement is achieved when the mate assist member comprises a rotatable lever that is mounted rotatable on the connector housing, and the connector housing comprises a flexible snap to lock the lever in the fully mated position.

[0035] With such an assembly the rotatable lever provides a mechanical advantage during the mating process, helping to smoothly bring the connectors together. Once fully mated, the flexible snap engages to lock the lever securely in position, preventing accidental disengagement or movement of the lever.4. Brief description of the figures

[0036] In the following, preferred embodiments of the disclosure are disclosed by reference to the accompanying figures. Fig. 1:illustrates an electrical connector assembly according to the invention in a perspective view. Fig. 2:shows the connector position assurance (CPA) member in a cross-sectional view. Fig. 3:shows the electrical connector assembly in a cross-sectional view. Fig. 4:illustrates the electrical connector assembly of Figure 3 in a different cross-sectional view. Fig. 5:illustrates the movement of the connector position assurance (CPA) member from the first into the second position. Fig. 6:depicts the connector position assurance (CPA) member and the housing of the electrical connector assembly in a cross-sectional view. Fig. 7:shows the mate assist member of the electrical connector assembly in a side view. 5. Detailed description of the figures

[0037] The subsequent sections provide a detailed description of the invention, referencing the accompanying illustrations for clarity. The descriptions represent examples only and are not intended to limit the invention's scope. Identical reference numerals across the figures and text denote the same components. The illustrations may not reflect actual size or scale; their dimensions, proportions, and depictions of elements might be enhanced for better understanding and visual convenience.

[0038] Figure 1 illustrates an electrical connector assembly 10 according to the invention in a perspective view. The connector position assurance (CPA) member 40 is slidably attached on the housing 20. The mate assist member 30 is realized as a rotary lever and is mounted on the housing 20 and can be rotated over the CPA member 40 and secured with the flexible snap 24 of the housing 20.

[0039] The CPA member 40 is slidably attached to the housing 20, allowing it to move between the first and the second position to ensure a secure connection. The mate assist member 30, designed as a rotary lever, is mounted on the housing 20 and is capable of rotating over the CPA member 40. Once the rotary lever is in its fully mated position, it can be locked in place using the flexible snap 24 located on the housing 20, ensuring the connector remains securely fastened.

[0040] Figure 2 shows the connector position assurance (CPA) member 40 in a cross-sectional view. The first latching member 41 is arranged such that it can interact with the holding portion on the housing (not shown). The CPA member 40 also comprises a blocking face 43 configured to block the flexible snap 24 (not shown) of the connector housing 20 (Fig. 1) when the CPA member 40 is in its second position. The CPA member 40 also comprises a locking portion 44, configured to lock the mate assist member 30 in its finally mated position, when the CPA member 40 is in its second position. The CPA member 40 further comprises one first and second position locking element 451, configured to engage with a first stop member 251 (shown in Fig. 5) of the housing 20 when in the first position and to engage with a second stop member 252 (shown in Fig. 5) of the housing 20 when in the second position.

[0041] The first latching member 41 can engage with a holding portion on the housing, allowing it to hold the CPA member in the first position. The CPA member 40 includes a blocking face 43, which is designed to prevent the movement of the flexible snap 24 of the connector housing 20 when the CPA member is in its second (locked) position. Additionally, the CPA member 40 features a locking portion 44 that is specifically configured to lock the mate assist member 30 into its fully mated position when the CPA member is in its second position (shown in Fig. 4). The CPA member 40 also has a first and second position locking element 451, which engages with a first stop member 251 (shown in Fig. 4) of the housing 20 when in the first position, and with a second stop member 252 of the housing 20 when in the second position, ensuring secure positioning during different stages of the mating process.

[0042] Figure 3 shows the electrical connector assembly 10 in a cross-sectional view. The CPA member 40 is slidably attached on the housing 20 and is in its second (or lock position) position. The mate assist member 30 is in its fully mated position and secured by the engagement of the flexible snap 24 of the housing with the snap counterpart 34 on the mate assist member 30. The blocking face 43 of the CPA member 40 additionally blocks the flexible snap 24 of the connector housing 20 so that the flexible snap 24 cannot disengage the snap counterpart 34. The first and second position locking element 451 engages with the second stop member 252 of the housing, such that the CPA member 40 cannot move further in the locked direction. The CPA member 40 further comprises a flexible arm 450 and the first and second position locking element 451 is arranged on the flexible arm 450. The flexible arm 450 further comprises a tapered, substantially triangular cross-section. The flexible arm 450 further comprises a recess 460 configured to be pushed by means of a tool or an assembler's finger to disengage the first and second position locking element 451 from the first or the second stop member 251, 252, so that the CPA member 40 is movable between the first and second position.

[0043] The mate assist member 30 is depicted in its fully mated position, secured by the engagement between the flexible snap 24 of the housing 20 and the snap counterpart 34 on the mate assist member 30. In addition, the CPA member's blocking face 43 is blocking the flexible snap 24, preventing it from disengaging from the snap counterpart 34, thus ensuring the mate assist member remains securely locked. The first and second position locking element 451 is engaged with the second stop member 252 of the housing, preventing the CPA member from further movement in the locked direction.

[0044] Figure 4 illustrates the electrical connector assembly 10 of Figure 3 in a different cross-sectional view. The CPA member 40 is slidably attached on the housing 20 and is in its second position. The mate assist member 30 is in its fully mated position and is further secured by locking portion 44 locking the mate assist member 30 in its finally mated position by being in direct contact with the mate assist member 30. The first and second position locking element 451 engages with the first and second stop members 251, 252 of the housing 20, such that the CPA member 40 cannot move into the first position. The CPA member 40 further comprises a flexible arm 450 and the first and second position locking element 451 is arranged on the flexible arm 450.

[0045] The mate assist member 30 is in its fully mated position and is further secured by the locking portion 44 of the CPA member, which directly contacts the mate assist member 30, locking it in place. The first and second position locking element 451 is engaged with the first and second stop members 251, 252 of the housing 20, preventing the CPA member 40 from moving back to its first position. The CPA member 40 includes a flexible arm 450 on which the first and second position locking element 451 is arranged. This flexible arm allows for controlled movement and secure locking of the CPA member, ensuring that the mate assist member remains locked in its fully mated position, providing a secure and reliable connection.

[0046] Figure 5 illustrates the movement of the connector position assurance (CPA) member 40 from the first into the second position. In Fig. 5, the CPA 40 is in its first position and in Fig. 4, it is in its second position. The CPA member 40 is slidably attached on the housing 20 in its first position. By pushing the flexible arm 450 in the direction of the housing (i.e., downwards in the figure), the first and second position locking element 451 disengages the first stop member 251 and the CPA member 40 can slide from the first into the second position. In the second position, the engagement of the first and second position locking element 451 with the second stop member 252 stops further movement. This ensures a stable connection in the fully mated state.

[0047] Figure 6 depicts the connector position assurance (CPA) member 40 and the housing 20 of the electrical connector assembly in a cross-sectional view from the front. The first latching members 41, 42 of the CPA member 40 engage the holding portions 21, 22 of the housing, so that the CPA member 40 cannot be moved as long as the first latching members 41, 42 engage the holding portions 21, 22. The mate assist member 30 includes release portions 31, 32, which are designed to disengage the first latching members 41, 42 from the holding portions 21, 22. Once these release portions are activated, the latching members 41, 42 are freed, allowing the CPA member 40 to move from the first position to the second position. This mechanism ensures controlled and secure movement of the CPA during the connection process.

[0048] Figure 7 shows the mate assist member 30 of the electrical connector assembly in a side view. The mate assist member is realized as a rotary lever and comprises a release portion 32, configured to disengage the first latching members 41, 42 (not shown) of the CPA member 40 from the holding portions 21, 22 (not shown) of the housing, when the lever is rotated. The release portion 32 comprises a half moon shape, thus facilitating the disengagement of the first latching members 41, 42 (not shown) from the holding portion 21, 22 (not shown).

[0049] The release portion 32 is characterized by its half-moon shape, which facilitates the smooth disengagement of the latching members from the holding portions. As the rotary lever moves, the curved surface of the half-moon shape effectively interacts with the latching members, allowing them to release, thus enabling the CPA member to move from its locked position when the mating process is complete.List of references:

[0050] 10: electrical connector assembly 20: connector housing 21: holding portion 22: holding portion 24: flexible snap 30: mate assist member 31, 32: release portion 34: snap counterpart 40: connector position assurance (CPA) member 41, 42: first latching members 43: blocking face 44: locking portion 450: flexible arm 451: first and second position locking element 460: recess 251: first stop member 252: second stop member

Claims

1. An electrical connector assembly (10) comprising: a connector housing (20); a mate assist member (30) being movable from a preliminary mating position to a fully mated position to facilitate the mating process of the connector housing (20) with a corresponding counter connector; and a connector position assurance (CPA) member (40) arranged movable on the connector housing (20) between a first and a second position, which connector position assurance (CPA) member (40) is adapted to lock the mate assist member (30) in its fully mated position when the connector position assurance (CPA) member (40) is in its second position.

2. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to claim 1, wherein the CPA member (40) comprises first latching members (41, 42) that engage holding portions (21, 22) on the connector housing (20) to releasably hold the CPA member (40) in the first position on the housing and which first latching members (41, 42) are adapted to be released from said holding portions (21, 22) upon actuating of the mate assist member (30).

3. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mate assist member (30) comprises a rotary lever having a release portion (31, 32) adapted to release the first latching members (41, 42) from engaging the holding portions (21, 22).

4. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector housing (20) comprises a flexible snap (24) to engage with a snap counterpart (34) on the mate assist member (30) when the mate assist device (30) is in its fully mated position.

5. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the CPA member (40) comprises a blocking face (43) configured to block the flexible snap (24) of the connector housing (20) when the CPA member (40) is in its second position.

6. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the CPA member (40) comprises a locking portion (44), configured to lock the mate assist member (30) in its finally mated position, when the CPA member (40) is in its second position, preferably by being in direct contact with a surface of the mate assist member (30).

7. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the CPA member (40) comprises one first and second position locking element (451), configured to engage with a first stop member (251) of the housing (20) when in the first position and to engage with a second stop member (252) of the housing (20) when in the second position.

8. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to claim 7, wherein the CPA member (40) comprises a release and holding mechanism, adapted to hold the CPA in its respective first and second positions, wherein the release and holding mechanism comprises a flexible arm (450) and the first and second position locking element (451) is arranged on the flexible arm (450); wherein preferably the flexible arm (450) comprises a tapered, substantially triangular cross-section.

9. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to claim 8, wherein the flexible arm (450) is adapted to be bent such that upon bending the flexible arm (450), the first and second position locking element (451) disengages from the first or the second stop member (251, 252), so that the CPA member (40) is movable between the first and second position.

10. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the flexible arm (450) comprises a recess (460) configured to be pushed by means of a tool or an assembler's finger to disengage the first and second position locking element (451) from the first or the second stop member (251, 252), so that the CPA member (40) is movable between the first and second position.

11. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any one of the claims 8 to 10, wherein the first stop member (251) prevents movement from the first to the second position and from the second to the first position of the CPA member (40), unless release and holding mechanism of the CPA member (40) is actuated.

12. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the release portion (31, 32) comprises a half moon shape, configured to engage with the first latching members (41, 42) to release the first latching members (41, 42) from the holding portions (21, 22).

13. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the CPA member (40) blocks a movement of the mate assist member (30) when in the second position and allows movement of the mate assist member (30) when in the first position.

14. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the CPA member (40) is adapted to be manually releasable from the second position.

15. The electrical connector assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the mate assist member (30) comprises a rotatable lever that is mounted rotatable on the connector housing, and the connector housing (20) comprises a flexible snap (24) to lock the lever in the fully mated position.

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