Finger protection for electrical connectors

GB2702017APending Publication Date: 2026-05-27HARTING INT INNOVATION AG
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
GB · GB
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
HARTING INT INNOVATION AG
Filing Date
2024-11-07
Publication Date
2026-05-27

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Abstract

A housing 300 for an electrical connector 500, 600 (figures 9 and 10), the housing comprising: a body formed of an electrically insulating material, wherein the body comprises a mating face 302 defini
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Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure related to electrical contacts, to electrical connectors comprising electrical contacts, and to housings for electrical connectors. BACKGROUND The are a variety of electrical contacts and electrical connectors comprising electrical contacts available, depending on the usage requirements. However, there is a need for improved electrical contacts, electrical connectors and housings for said electrical connectors that address various shortcomings in the prior art. SUMMARY Aspects of the present disclosure are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Combinations of features from the dependent claims may be combined with features of the independent claims as appropriate and not merely as explicitly set out in the claims. According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical contact, comprising: a receiving member comprising a body formed of an electrically conductive material, the body comprising a first body portion configured to be coupled to an electrical conductor, and a resiliently flexible second body portion defining a chamber, an electrically conductive sliding member, the sliding member comprising a first end portion and an opposing second end portion, wherein: the first end portion is receivable within the chamber of the receiving member and is axially moveable along the chamber relative to the receiving member thereby causing radial deflection of the second body portion such that the second body portion electrically contacts and exerts a compressive force on the first end portion of the sliding member; and the second end defines an electrical contact surface configured to operatively contact a corresponding electrical contact surface of a mating electrical contact, so as to provide an electrical coupling between the mating electrical contact and the electrical conductor; and a biasing member. The mating or counter electrical contact and the electrical conductor are external to, and therefore not part of, the electrical contact of the first aspect. In a rest configuration the biasing member is configured to exert a biasing force to bias the sliding member in a first axial direction away from the receiving member. In response to an axial pressure exceeding the biasing force applied to the electrical contact surface in a second axial direction opposed to the first axial direction, the sliding member is configured to move towards the first body portion to a compressed configuration. In both the rest configuration and the compressed configuration the first end portion of the sliding member is received in the chamber. Advantageously, the resiliently flexible second body portion and the sliding member allows for a secure and consistent electrical connection to the electrical conductor by exerting a compressive force on the sliding member, ensuring reliable conductivity even in the presence of vibration or movement. Optionally, the electrical contact may be referred to as a "female" electrical contact. The mating electrical contact may be referred to as a "male" or positive electrical contact. However, in the present disclosure the "male" electrical contact is not received in the "female" electrical contact, rather the two electrical contact surfaces engage or press against each other. Optionally, in response to removal of said axial pressure from the electrical contact surface, due to the biasing force the sliding member is configured to move towards the rest configuration. Thus, the biasing member may ensure that the sliding member is returned to its rest configuration after disconnection, which facilitates repeated use and maintains the integrity of the connection over time. Optionally, the biasing member is configured such that, in response to removal of an axial pressure applied to the electrical contact surface by the corresponding electrical contact surface of the mating electrical contact, a counter displacement force is exerted on the corresponding electrical contact surface that results in disengagement of any electrical connection between the electrical contact surface and the corresponding electrical contact surface. Optionally, the biasing member is configured such that the counter displacement force results in disengagement of any electrical connection between the electrical contact surface and the corresponding electrical contact surface within a given time period that is determined to be short enough to prevent (or mitigate the risk of) generation of damaging electrical arcing. Optionally, the biasing member is configured such that the counter displacement force results in an axial gap between the electrical contact surface and the corresponding electrical contact surface that is sufficient to prevent electric arcing therebetween. Accordingly, when the sliding member returns to the rest configuration an axial gap is provided between the electrical contact surface and the corresponding electrical contact surface that is sufficient to prevent electric arcing. It will be appreciated that the time period and the required axial gap depends on the particular application, as they are a function of the voltage, the ambient air, the shape of the parts, etc. Optionally, the biasing member is configured such that the counter displacement force results in disengagement of any electrical connection between the electrical contact surface and the corresponding electrical contact surface within 10 ms of removal of said axial pressure. This rapid disengagement feature, where electrical contact is broken within a given time period (e.g., 10 ms of removing axial pressure), enhances the safety of the electrical contact by reducing the risk of arcing or electrical shock during disconnection. The quick disconnection response provided by the biasing member is desirable in applications requiring fast switching or disconnection, such as emergency power-off scenarios. Optionally, the biasing member is a compression spring. It will be appreciated that compression springs are readily available and can be easily customized to provide the desired force characteristics, making the electrical contact adaptable to various applications and specifications. Optionally, the second body portion comprises a plurality of axially extending slots. Optionally, the plurality of axially extending slots define a plurality of resiliently flexible lamella, wherein each resiliently flexible lamella is biased radially inwards towards the chamber. The lamella may equivalently be referred to as elongate elements. The plurality of axially extending slots defining resiliently flexible lamella may be a cost-effective option for providing the resiliently flexible second body portion. The lamella may allow for a more uniform distribution of compressive force around the sliding member, which can improve the contact quality and reduce wear. The lamella structure may also enable the electrical contact to accommodate slight misalignments or variations in the size of the mating contact without compromising the electrical connection. Optionally, the biasing member comprises a first end and a second end. The first end of the biasing member may be coupled to the body of the receiving member and the second end of the biasing member may be coupled to the second end portion of the sliding member. Optionally, the body of the receiving member comprises a circumferential flange provided on an external surface of the body. The first end of the biasing member may be seated on the circumferential flange. Optionally, the circumferential flange is provided between the first body portion and the second body portion. It will be appreciated that, in this context, "between" means axially between, or between along the longitudinal axis of the body. Optionally, the electrical contact surface is a planar surface. A planar contact surface may provide a large area of contact with the corresponding electrical contact surface, which can reduce resistance and improve the overall efficiency of the electrical connection. Optionally, the electrical contact surface has a larger surface area relative to the complementary electrical contact surface. Optionally, the electrical contact surface has a surface area that is between 1.2 and 2 times the surface area of the complementary electrical contact surface. Optionally, the electrical contact surface has a rugosity (or surface roughness) of less than 0.5 mm. This rugosity may minimize surface irregularities that could compromise the electrical connection, ensuring a smooth and reliable interface between the two electrical contacts. Optionally, the second end portion of the sliding member forms a stop member that prevents the sliding member being fully inserted into the chamber. Optionally, the second body portion and the sliding member may be dimensioned to provide an interference fit between the first end portion of the sliding member and the chamber. The sliding member may be referred to as a sliding pin. Thus, the sliding member may be pin-shaped. Optionally, a tip of the first end portion may be chamfered or tapered radially inwardly, to reduce friction when inserting the tip into the second body portion. Optionally, the first end of the sliding member may form part of an elongate body of the sliding member. Optionally, the elongate body of the sliding member is slidably received in the chamber. Optionally, the first end portion of the sliding member comprises a radial protrusion that is configured to provide an interference fit between the first end portion of the sliding member and the resiliently flexible second body portion. Optionally, the radial protrusion may be a lip or a circumferential bulge. Thus, the first end portion may comprise a portion having a larger diameter relative to a remainder of the first end portion (or relative to an elongate body of the sliding member). The larger diameter portion may retain the sliding member in contact with the chamber, preventing accidental disassembly and loss of parts. Advantageously, this also allows the electrical contact to be provided pre-assembled, with the biasing member pre-loaded, as the sliding member is retained in the chamber. According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical connector comprising a housing and an electrical contact according to any embodiment or example of the first aspect of this disclosure, wherein the electrical contact is provided within the housing. It will be appreciated that any advantages provided by the electrical contact of the first aspect of this disclosure apply equally to the electrical connector of the second aspect of this disclosure. The electrical connector may be suitable for use in applications defined in the IEC 60309 standard from year 2021. The electrical connector may be referred to as a socket or a female electrical connector. Optionally, the electrical connector may comprise a plurality of the electrical contacts. The electrical connector may be a high-current electrical connector. In some embodiments the electrical connector may be suitable for use in a data centre. According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a housing for an electrical connector. The housing comprises a body formed of an electrically insulating material, wherein the body comprises a mating face defining an aperture configured to provide access to a channel through the body to a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing, wherein the body further includes a positive keyed portion configured to partially occlude the aperture. It will be appreciated that the electrical contact does not form part of the housing. The term "non-electrically conducting" may be used interchangeably with "electrically insulating" in this disclosure. Electrical connectors comprising live electrical contacts must legally comply with safety regulations to reduce the risk of a person touching the live electrical contact through the housing (e.g. by inserting a finger into the aperture). The safety regulations require the provision of finger protection to prevent accidental electrical shocks. In the present disclosure, the positive keyed portion provides an easy to manufacture and cost-effective finger protection solution that mitigates the risk of a live electrical contact being touched through the housing. The mating face (including the positive keyed portion) may be a single unitary structure. Optionally, the body may be formed of a plastic or polymer material that is electrically insulating. Optionally, the positive keyed portion extends from a perimeter of the aperture at least partially across the aperture. The positive keyed portion may be rigid, such that it resists deformation. This may prevent an object (such as a finger) pushing past the positive keyed portion into the aperture. The positive keyed portion may be located at least coincident with the aperture. Optionally, the body defines a collar projecting beyond the mating face and the positive keyed portion is at least partially defined within the collar. Thus, the collar may further improve finger protection by increasing the spacing between the aperture and the live electrical contact operatively provides in the housing. Optionally, the positive keyed portion has a length that extends within the channel. Thus, the positive keyed portion may be an elongate structure. This may be beneficial to allow a complementary keyed electrical contact to slide along the positive keyed portion during insertion into the channel, which can improve stability and alignment of the electrical contacts. Optionally, the positive keyed portion is configured such that a test probe as defined by the safety standards for finger protection cannot be inserted into the aperture or cannot make contact with a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing via the aperture. The test probe is configured to be representative of a human finger. Optionally, the positive keyed portion is configured such that a test probe as defined by the UL standard- UL (2022-12-07), wherein the number code defines the date of issue of the relevant standard, cannot be inserted into the aperture, or is restricted from making contact with a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing via the aperture. Optionally, the positive keyed portion is dimensioned such that a rigid object with a diameter between 5 and 8mm with a height of approximately 90 mm is restricted from making contact with a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing. Optionally, the positive keyed portion is configured such that a rigid object having a diameter of approximately 5.8 mm cannot be inserted into the aperture. Optionally, the positive keyed portion comprises a plurality of projections radially extending from the perimeter of the aperture. Optionally, the mating face further comprises an aperture dimensioned to receive a ground pin operably provided in the housing, wherein said aperture is free of keying. It will be appreciated that finger protection is not required for a ground pin, as it is not live. Optionally the body further comprises a plurality of apertures provided in the mating face, each aperture configured to provide access to a channel through the body to a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing. Optionally the body further comprises a plurality of keyed portions, each positive keyed portion configured to at least partially occlude a respective aperture of the plurality of apertures. According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical connector comprising the housing of any embodiment or example of the third aspect of the present disclosure. The electrical connector further comprises at least one electrical contact provided in the housing, wherein a first end portion of each electrical contact is configured to be coupled to a respective live electrical conductor and a second end portion of each electrical contact is configured to be aligned with a respective one of the at least one apertures defined in the mating face. The electrical connector may be referred to as a socket or a female electrical connector. In some embodiments, the, or each, electrical contact may be as described above in the first aspect of the present disclosure. Optionally, the electrical connector may be suitable for use in applications defined in the IEC 60309 standard from year 2021. According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical contact comprising a rigid elongate body formed of an electrically conductive material, the rigid elongate body comprising a first body portion configured to be disposed in a housing of an electrical connector, and a second body portion configured to be inserted into an aperture defined within a housing of another electrical connector, the another electrical connector having a keyed portion configured to partially occlude the aperture, wherein the second body portion comprises a complementary keyed portion that extends from an end of the rigid elongate body in a longitudinal direction along the second body portion and operatively engages with and mates with the keyed portion of the aperture. Thus, the electrical contact of the fifth aspect of the present disclosure is configured to be inserted into the housing of the third or fourth aspects of the present disclosure. The electrical contact may be referred to as a "male" electrical contact or a positive electrical contact. Optionally, the complementary keyed portion comprises a slot or groove provided in an outer surface of the second body portion. Optionally, the slot or groove bifurcates the second body portion. Optionally, the complementary keyed portion comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced slots. Optionally, the first body portion comprises an alignment feature configured to engage with a complementary alignment feature in the housing of the electrical connector, wherein the alignment feature comprises a projection or a slot. Thus, the alignment feature may advantageously ensure that the first body portion is received in the housing in a given orientation, such that the complementary keyed portion is arranged to be aligned with the positive keyed portion of the other electrical connector. According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a housing for an electrical connector, the housing comprising: a first housing portion having an external surface, the first housing portion dimensioned to receive electrical contacts of the electrical connector; a collar mounted on the external surface of the first housing portion such that the first housing portion and the collar are axially displaceable and rotatable relative to each other, wherein an end of the collar comprises a threaded portion for engaging a complementary threaded portion of a mating electrical connector; and a locking member coupled to the collar and moveable relative to each of the collar and the first housing portion. The housing is reconfigurable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration the first housing portion is axially displaced in a first direction towards the end of the collar and the locking member engages the first housing portion to secure the collar in a fixed axial position relative to the first housing portion. Thus, in the locked configuration the first housing portion and the collar are not axially displaceable relative to each other. In the unlocked configuration, the locking member is disengaged from the first housing portion such that the first housing portion and the collar are axially displaceable along a longitudinal axis of the housing, and rotatable relative to each other. In the locked configuration an electrical connection is effected between the electrical contacts of the first housing portion and corresponding electrical contacts of the mating electrical connector. Thus, the housing is a quick-disconnect housing wherein disengaging the locking member electrically rapidly disconnects the electrical connector from the mating electrical connector. However, the two electrical connectors will remain physically connected until the threaded portion of the collar is disengaged from the complementary threaded portion of the mating electrical connector. Optionally, the housing may be provided in the locked configuration. Thus, the housing may be pre-set to the locked configuration which may improve convenience for the end user. The threaded portion of the collar allows the housing to be conveniently connected to the housing of the mating electrical connector without the need for tools and without requiring the application of a significant axial force. In other embodiments, the collar may require the use of a tool to screw the collar into engagement with the housing of the mating connector, depending on the application. Optionally, the locking member is moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. Optionally, manually depressing or actuating the locking member moves the locking member to the engaged position. Optionally, the locking member comprises a biasing member configured to bias the locking member towards the engaged position. The biasing member may be a spring. Thus, in some embodiments, to move the housing to the locked configuration the first housing portion may be axially displaced in the first direction towards the end of the collar and the locking member may automatically engage the first housing portion, due to the biasing force applied by the biasing member of the locking member. The first housing portion may be axially displaced in the first direction towards the end of the collar until the locking member clicks into engagement. Optionally, the collar may be rotatable relative to the first housing portion when the housing is in the locked configuration. Optionally, the locking member comprises a latch and the first housing portion comprises a catch or recess arranged to engage the latch in the locked configuration of the housing. Optionally, the housing comprises a second locking member coupled to the collar. In the locked configuration the second locking member additionally engages the first housing, and in the unlocked configuration, the second locking member is disengaged from the first housing portion such that the first housing portion and the collar are axially displaceable and rotatable relative to each other. Having two locking members may reduce the risk of accidentally reconfiguring the housing to the unlocked configuration due to a user accidentally disengaging a locking member; as the risk of accidentally disengaging both locking members is lower. Optionally, the first and second locking members are provided on opposite sides of the collar to one another. This may beneficially provide even forces applied by the locking members on both sides of the housing, providing for a more secure coupling of the first housing portion relative to the collar. Moreover, the first and second locking members may be positioned to be simultaneously depressed by a user's finger and thumb, which improves convenience. Optionally, the first locking member comprises a first latch and the second locking member comprises a second latch. The first and second locking members may comprise manually actuatable buttons. Optionally, the first housing portion comprises a groove or channel provided in the external surface of the first housing portion, wherein the groove or channel is arranged to receive the first latch and the second latch in the locked configuration of the housing. The groove or channel may equivalently be referred to as a circumferential lip or flange or recessed portion. In the locked configuration, the locking member(s) may slide in the groove or channel provided in the first housing portion, allowing the collar to rotate relative to the first housing portion. Optionally, a second housing portion is provided, wherein the second housing portion is coupled to an internal surface of the first housing portion. The second housing portion is configured to house at least one electrical contact of the electrical connector. Optionally, the second housing portion comprises a mating face comprising an aperture configured to provide access to a channel extending at least partially through the second housing portion, wherein the channel is dimensioned to operatively receive an electrical contact of the electrical connector. Optionally, the first housing portion, the second housing portion and the collar are formed of an electrically insulating material. According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical connector comprising the housing of any embodiment or example of the sixth aspect of the present disclosure. Optionally, the electrical connector may be suitable for use in applications defined in the IEC 60309 standard from year 2021. The electrical connector further comprises an electrical contact mounted in the housing. Optionally, the electrical contact may be referred to as a "male" electrical contact or a positive electrical contact. Optionally, the electrical contact may be referred to as a "female" electrical contact. Thus, any type of electrical contact may be provided in the housing. The electrical contact may be mounted in the second housing portion. Optionally, the electrical contact may be as described in an embodiment of the first aspect of the present disclosure, or the fifth aspect of the present disclosure. According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising: a first electrical connector as described in any embodiment or example of the seventh aspect of the present disclosure; and a second electrical connector configured to couple to the first electrical connector. The second electrical connector comprises a housing having a body comprising a mating face having an aperture, and a complementary threaded portion configured to engage the threaded portion of the collar. An electrical contact is mounted in the body of the housing and aligned with the aperture. To couple the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector, the threaded portions are engaged and the first electrical connector exerts an axial force on the mating face of the second electrical connector to bring the electrical contact of the first electrical connector into contact with the electrical contact of the second electrical connector. The second electrical connector may be referred to as a socket or a "female" electrical connector. Optionally, the second electrical connector comprises a mating face defined in any embodiment or example of the third aspect of the present disclosure. Optionally, the second electrical connector comprises a biasing member configured to bias the mating face away from the electrical contact mounted in the body of the housing, such that in the absence of axial pressure applied to the mating face, an axial gap is provided between the electrical contact and the aperture. This biasing member may further improve the safety of the second electrical connector by providing an additional finger protection measure. In addition, when the threaded portions of the electrical connectors are engaged and the locking member(s) of the first electrical connector are disengaged, the biasing member of the second electrical connector exerts a displacement force that axially displaces the first housing portion in a longitudinal direction away from the second electrical connector, thereby disconnecting the electrical connection between the two electrical connectors. Thus, the biasing member provides a quick-disconnect between the two electrical connectors, which can be important for applications requiring fast switching or disconnection, such as emergency power-off scenarios. The biasing member may exert the displacement force against the mating face of the first electrical connector (or the second housing portion). Optionally, the second electrical connector comprises a plurality of said biasing members. Optionally, an end of the electrical contact of the first electrical connector comprises a electrical contact surface and an end of the electrical contact of the second electrical connector comprises a complementary electrical contact surface, wherein when the first electrical connector is in the locked configuration and the threaded portions of the first and second electrical connectors are engaged, the electrical contact surface and the complementary electrical contact surface are configured to press against each other to form an electrical connection therebetween. Optionally, the electrical contacts of the second electrical connector may be as defined in the first aspect of the present disclosure. As such, a second displacement force may be exerted by the biasing member of the electrical contact to further ensure a quick-disconnect between the two electrical connectors. According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of disconnecting a live electrical connection using the system of any embodiment or example of the eight aspect of this disclosure. The method comprising the steps of: disengaging the, or each, locking member from the first housing portion, such that the housing of the first electrical connector is in the unlocked configuration; exerting, by the second electrical connector, an axial displacement force on the first housing portion of the first electrical connector, thereby axially displacing the first housing portion away from to the second electrical connector, relative to the collar, along a longitudinal axis of the first housing portion, such that the electrical connection between the electrical contacts of the first and second electrical connector is terminated; wherein the threaded portion of the collar remains in engagement with the complementary threaded portion of the second electrical connector. It will be appreciated that the method of the ninth aspect of this disclosure may include any relevant feature or embodiment described above in connection with any other aspect of this disclosure. Thus, a quick electrical disconnection is effected in response to disengaging, the, or each, locking member of the first electrical connector. Optionally, the axially displacement of the first housing portion results in a gap between the electrical contacts of the first and second electrical connectors that is sufficient to prevent electrical arcing therebetween. Optionally, the axial displacement force is exerted by at least one biasing member provided in the second electrical connector in response to the disengagement of the, or each, locking member. Optionally, disengaging the, or each, locking member from the first housing portion comprises manually actuating the, or each, locking member to move the, or each, locking member to a disengaged position. Optionally, the method further includes rotating the collar relative to the first housing portion to unscrew the threaded portion of collar from the complementary threaded portion of the second electrical connector, thereby physically disconnecting the first electrical connector from the second electrical connector. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of this disclosure will be described hereinafter, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like reference signs relate to like elements and in which: Figure 1 shows an example of an electrical connection between a male and female electrical contact in the prior art; Figure 2 shows a side view of a positive or male electrical contact according to an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 3 shows an exploded view of a mating electrical contact according to an embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 4A shows a side view of two complementary electrical contacts according to an embodiment of this disclosure when in a rest configuration; Figure 4B shows the complementary electrical contacts of Figure 4A when in a compressed or engaged configuration; Figure 5 shows a front view of a mating face of a housing for an electrical connector according to an example in the prior art; Figure 6 shows a front perspective view of a housing for an electrical connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 7 shows a selection of alternative configurations for the keyed portion of the housing; Figure 8A shows a perspective view of an electrical connector having a complementary keyed portion configured to engage the complementary keyed portion of one of the apertures in Figure 6; Figure 8B shows a side view of the electrical contact in Figure 8A; Figure 9 shows a side perspective view of an electrical connector; Figure 10 shows a side perspective view of a complementary electrical connector configured to mate with the electrical connector in Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the two electrical connectors in Figures 9 and 10 when engaged and in a locked configuration; Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the two electrical connectors in Figures 9 and 10 when engages and in an unlocked configuration; and Figure 13 shows an alternative cross-sectional view of the two electrical connectors in Figures 9 and 10 when engaged and in an unlocked configuration. 5 DETAILED DESCRIPTION Embodiments of this disclosure are described in the following with reference to the accompanying drawings. Elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale unless a scale is explicitly indicated. Figure 1 shows a prior art example of an electrical connection between two electrical contacts. A male electrical contact 10 is inserted into a female electrical contact 12, wherein the female electrical contact 12 is electrically (and physically) coupled to an electrical conductor or wire 14. An electrical connection is formed between the male electric contact 10 and the female electrical contact 12 along line A-A (represented by the dotted line in Figure 1) where the two contacts engage each other. The female electrical contact 12 often comprises a plurality of resiliently flexible lamella that are biased to apply a compressive forced to the male electrical contact 10, thereby ensuring a secure electrical connection along line A-A. However, these electrical contacts can experience limitations when disconnecting user load at a high current, can have sharp edges that facilitate the creation of an electric arc. In addition, to disconnect the electrical connection the male electrical contact 10 has to be pulled out of engagement with the female electrical contact 12, which can be relatively slow, providing time for the electrical arcing to be generated which can burn the electrical contacts. The present disclosure seeks to remedy these deficiencies by providing improved electrical contacts, as shown in Figures 2 to 4B. Figure 2 shows a male or positive electrical contact 100 of an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electrical contact 100 comprises a first body portion 110 and a second body portion 112. The first body portion 110 is configured to be at least partially mounted in a housing of an electrical connector (i.e. a male electrical connector or plug). The second body portion 112 is configured to be at least partially inserted into a housing of a mating electrical connector (i .e. a female electrical connector or socket). An end of the second body portion 112 comprises an electrical contact surface 114. The electrical contact surface 114 is configured to press against a complementary electrical contact surface of an electrical contact of the mating electrical connector (i.e. a female electrical connector or socket), as shown in Figure 4B. The electrical contact 100, or at least the second body portion 112, are formed of an electrically conductive material. In some embodiments, the electrically conductive material may be a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the electrical contact 100 may be at least partially formed of a copper alloy, such as a copper and zinc alloy. Figure 3 shows an exploded view (or unassembled view) of an embodiment of the mating connector 200 configured to engage the male electrical connector 100. The electrical connector 200 comprises a receiving member 210, a sliding member 220 and a biasing member 230. In this embodiment, the biasing member 230 is a compression spring. The receiving member 210 and the sliding member 220 are formed of an electrically conductive material. In some embodiments, the electrically conductive material may be a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments the electrically conductive material may be at least partially formed of a copper alloy, such as a copper and zinc alloy. The receiving member 210 may be a "traditional" or known female electrical contact, for example as represented by element 12 in Figure 1. The receiving member 210 comprises a body having a first body portion 212 and a second body portion 214. The first body portion 212 is for coupling to an electrical conductor (e g. wire). The first body portion 212 may be a crimping portion configured to be crimped to engage the electrical conductor. The second body portion 214 is resiliently flexible and defines an internal chamber. As such, the second body portion 214 is configured to exert a compressive force (i.e. engage) an object inserted into the chamber. The sliding member 220 comprises a first end portion 222 and an opposing second end portion 224. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the sliding member 220 is pin-shaped having a head 224 and an elongate body, wherein the first end portion 222 is an end portion of the elongate body. It will be appreciated that other geometries and shapes may be provided. The first end portion 222 is receivable within the chamber of the second body portion 214 of the receiving member. The sliding member 220 is dimensioned to be axially moveable along the chamber relative to the receiving member 210 (see Figure 4A and 4B). A portion 223 of the first end portion 222 tapers radially outwards, such that it has a larger diameter relative to the elongate body of the sliding member. This may create an interference fit between the sliding member 220 and the second body portion 214, thereby retaining the two components in engagement. Alternatively or additionally, an insertion section of the second body portion 214 can have inwardly directed projections that may engage the portion 223 of the sliding member 220 and prevent disengagement of the sliding member 220 from the second body portion 214. The second end portion 224 of the sliding member forms a stop member that prevents the sliding member being fully inserted into the second body portion 214. An end of the second end portion 224 provides an electrical contact surface 226 for engaging a complementary electrical contact surface of a mating electrical contact. Figure 4A shows an embodiment of the electrical contact 200 when assembled, in a rest configuration. In this embodiment the second body portion 214 of the receiving member comprises a plurality of axially extending slots 216. The axially extending slots 216 define a plurality of resiliently deformable lamella 218. The first end portion 222 of the sliding member 220 is received in the chamber of the second body portion 214. Due to their construction, the lamella 218 are inherently biased radially inwards to exert a compressive force against the sliding member 220. The second end portion 224 of the sliding member 220 projects beyond the second body portion 214 in a first axial direction. The biasing member 230 comprises a first end 232 and a second end 234. The first end 234 is seated against a circumferential flange 213 of the receiving member 210. The second end 234 of the biasing member engages an underside of the second end portion 224 of the sliding member. Accordingly, the biasing member 230 exerts a biasing force that biases the second end portion 224 of the sliding member away from the second body portion 214 in a rest configuration. As shown, the electrical contact surface 226 of the sliding member 220 is complementary to the electrical contact surface 114 of the mating electrical contact 100. Although the electrical contact surfaces 114, 226 are shown in Figure 4A as flat horizonal surfaces, it will be appreciated that other geometries may be provided. The electrical contact surfaces 114,226 may be planar, but extending at complementary angles relative to a horizontal plane. In other embodiments (not shown) the electrical contact surfaces 114, 226 may comprises complementary curved surfaces. The electrical contact surfaces 114, 226 are ideally relatively smooth, as surface imperfections or roughness will decrease the quality of the electrical connection between the two surfaces. In some embodiments, each electrical contact surface 114, 116 may have a rugosity of 0.5 mm or less. Figure 4B shows the electrical contact 200 of Figure 4A when engaged with a corresponding electrical contact 100 of an opposing electrical connector. The electrical contact 100 is as described in connection with Figure 2. When the electrical contact surface 114 of the electrical contact 100 axially engages and presses against the complementary electrical contact surface 226 of the electrical contact 200, this exerts a compressive force that exceeds the biasing force applied by the biasing member 230. Accordingly, the second end portion 224 of the sliding member moves towards the second body portion 214. The second end portion 224 may abut the second body portion 214. In this compressed configuration, as shown in Figure 4B, an electrical connection is formed between the electrical contact 200 and the electrical contact 100 at the interface between the two complementary electrical contact surfaces 114, 226 (represented by line B-B). As such, an electrical charge flows from a conductor received in the first body portion 212, through the second body portion 214, the sliding member 220 and to the electrical contact 100 via the electrical contact surface 226. When the axial pressure applied by the electrical contact 100 is removed, the electrical contacts 100, 200 return to the rest configuration shown in Figure 4A, due to the biasing force applied by the biasing member 230. Accordingly, when the axial pressure is removed, the electrical contact surface 226 of the electrical contact 200 will exert a displacement force on the electrical contact surface 114, pushing the electrical contact 100 away from the sliding member 220 and thereby disconnecting the electrical connection between the contacts 100, 200. Thus, the electrical contact 200 of the present disclosure prevents (or mitigates) the generation of damaging electrical arcing, as the male electrical contact 100 is no longer in direct contact with the lamella 218, such edges of the lamella 218 no longer facilitate the creation of an electric arc. The biasing member 230 (i.e. compression spring) can be selected such that the biasing force applied results in disengagement of the electrical connection within a given time period of the removal of the axial pressure and results in an axial gap of a given distance between the electrical contact surfaces 114,226. The time period and the axial gap can be selected to prevent damaging electrical arcing between the two contacts 100, 200. In some embodiments, the time period may be approximately 10 ms. It will be appreciated that the properties of the compression spring can be selected to achieve the desired time period and axial gap, which will depend on the parameters of the particular electrical contacts 100, 200 and use application, as they will depend on the voltage, the ambient air, the shape of the parts, etc. It will be appreciated that the electrical contact 200 is provided in first electrical connector and the electrical contact 100 is provided in a second electrical connector separate to the first electrical connector. As, in use, the electrical contact 200 is live (carries an electric current), the first electrical connector must legally comply with the relevant safety standards, including the safety standard for finger protection which minimizes the risk of a person being electrocuted by touching the electrical contact 200 through the connector. There are various safety standards that cover finger protection in different applications, depending on the type of connector, and the level of electrical current / voltage being applied. These safety standards are tested using a specific test probe that represents a human finger, and attempting to insert the test probe into the electrical connector to see if it can contact a live electrical contact. The dimensions of the test probes vary between the different safety standards. An example of a portion of a housing for an electrical connector according to the prior art is shown in Figure 5. The housing comprises a mating face 30 comprising a plurality of apertures 32. The apertures 32 are substantially circular. Each aperture 32 is arranged to provide access to a live electrical conductor operatively mounted in the housing. Thus, to meet safety requirements a test probe (as described above) cannot pass through the apertures 32 to reach the live electrical contacts. There are various known finger protection solutions that can be employed to meet this safety requirement. In some embodiments, a rotating plate may be provided in front of the mating face 30, wherein the rotating plate is biased by a spring to block the apertures 32. The plate must be rotated to provide access to the apertures 32 and, after removal of the male electrical contacts from the apertures 32, the rotating plate blocks the apertures 32 again. This solution is effective, but it is relatively complex and increases manufacturing costs. The plate also increases the overall size of the connector, which is undesirable. There is also a risk of the spring failing over time. An alternative simpler solution is to increase the spacing between the aperture and the live electrical contact, such that a finger (or test probe) cannot reach far enough into the housing to touch the electrical contact. However, this requires the length of the male electrical connector to be similarly increased, which increases manufacturing costs. The overall size of the connectors being increased can also be undesirable, not just due to material costs, as space for such connectors is often restricted and comes at a premium. Another known finger protection solution is to provide a plastic tip on the male electrical contact, but this can burn when the current during disconnecting under load at a high current (e.g. when the current goes over 70A at 600V). This is due to electrical arcing that may be created by the female electrical contact. In addition, this plastic tip may be undesirable if the electrical contacts 100, 200 as shown in Figures 2-4B of the present disclosure are provided, as at least a portion of the electrical contact surface 114 of the male electrical contact must be electrically conductive. The present disclosure provides an alternative finger protection solution which is simple, cost effective and reliable. An embodiment of a housing 300 for forming part of an electrical connector according to the present disclosure is shown in Figure 6. The housing 300 is formed of non-electrically conductive material, or electrically insulating material. The housing 300 comprises a body having mating face 302, the mating face 302 comprising a plurality of apertures 310. Each aperture 310 is in communication with a channel arranged to provide access to a live electrical contact operatively provided in the housing 300. It will be appreciated that the contact does not form part of the housing 300. In this embodiment, four apertures 310 are provided, but in other embodiments only a single aperture may be provided, or at least two apertures may be provided. In this embodiment, a plurality of collars 306 project beyond the mating face 302, each collar 306 surrounding one of the apertures 310. In other embodiments, the collars 306 may not be provided, such that a flat mating face 302 defines the apertures 310. The housing 300 further comprises a plurality of positive keyed portions 304, each positive keyed portion 304 partially occluding a respective one of the apertures 310. Thus, the positive keyed portions 304 prevent a finger (or a test probe representing a finger) from accessing the live electrical contacts in the housing 300. In some embodiments, the positive keyed portions 304 are dimensioned such that a test probe as defined by the UL standard UL (2022-12-07), wherein the number code defines the date of issue of the relevant standard, cannot be inserted into the apertures 310, or cannot access a live electrical contact via the apertures 310. The positive keyed portions 304 may be configured such that a rigid object having a diameter of 5.8 mm cannot be inserted into the apertures 310. The mating face 302 also comprises an occlusion-free aperture 312 for receiving a ground pin or a ground contact. As the ground pin or ground pin is held at a reference potential and is not live, no keying is required to this occlusion-free aperture 312. In this embodiment, the positive keyed portions 304 each comprise two projections that extend radially inwards from a perimeter of the aperture 310. The projections may have a length extending along the collar 306 and optionally into the channel (see Figure 10). The positive keyed portions 304 may be rigid or non-deformable. This can further assist in preventing a finger or test probe from pushing past the keyed portion 304 into the housing 300. In some embodiments, the positive keyed portions 304, the collars 306 and the mating face 302 may be a single unitary structure. This may improve manufacturing cost and convenience. Although each positive keyed portion 304 has the same geometry as shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments one or more of the positive keyed portions 304 may have a different geometry relative to the other positive keyed portions 304. In addition, the positive keyed portions 304 are not limited to the geometry shown in Figure 6. The positive keyed portions 304 may have any geometry that partially occludes the apertures 310, such that the aperture 310 is no longer circular. Some alternative geometries for the keyed portions 304a, 304b, 304c, 304d, 304e and 304f are shown in Figure 7. As shown, the keyed portions is not limited to straight projections, as curved geometries may be provided, of with 304e and 304f are two possible embodiments. In some embodiments, as in keyed portions 304b and 304f the keyed portion may bifurcate the aperture 310. As the aperture 310 is keyed, a complementary keyed portion needs to be provided on the electrical contact configured to be received into the aperture 310. An embodiment of an electrical contact 400 configured to be inserted into one of the apertures 310 in Figure 6 is shown in Figures 8A and 8B. The electrical contact 400 comprises a first body portion 410 and a second body portion 412, similar to the electrical contact in Figure 2. However, the second body portion 412 comprises a complementary keyed portion consisting of a pair of slots of grooves 422 arranged and shaped to receive the keyed portion 304 of the mating face 302. The slots or grooves 422 extend from the contact surface 414 partially along a length of the second body portion 412. Accordingly, to insert the electrical contact 400 into the aperture 310, the slots 422 must be aligned with the keyed portion 304 and the electrical contact 400 can then slide along the keyed portion 304 into the channel to engage a live electrical contact. In this embodiment, the first body portion 410 of the electrical contact 400 also includes a pair of slots 424. These slots 424 are alignment features provided to ensure that the electrical contact 400 is mounted in the housing of an electrical connector in a specific orientation. Complementary alignment features are provided in the electrical connector housing (not shown). It will be appreciated that, particularly when a plurality of electrical contacts 400 are provided, depending on the geometry of the complementary keyed portion and the keyed portion 304, it may be important for the electrical contacts to be provided in specific orientations relative to each other to ensure that the electrical contacts can all be received in the respective keyed apertures 310. Moreover, although the alignment feature is show as a pair of slots 422 in Figures 8A, 8B, a single alignment feature may be provided, or the alignment feature(s) may be a projection or positive protrusion, rather than a recessed portion. Figure 9 shows an electrical connector 500 or a housing for said electrical connector. It will be appreciated that the housing is generally manufactured and sold as a separate component to the electrical contacts. The electrical connector 500 contains one or more electrical contacts. These electrical contacts may be male electrical contact or female electrical contacts, for example (but not limited to) the type of contacts shown in Figures 2, 3 or 8A, 8B of the present disclosure. The housing may be formed of any electrically insulating materials. The housing comprises a first housing portion 502, which may be referred to as a hood, a cable gland 504 and an aperture 506 for receiving one or more electrical cables therethrough. A collar 510 is mounted to an exterior surface of the first housing portion 502, such that the collar 510 and the first housing portion 510 can rotate and linearly move (i.e. translate, displace or slide) in a longitudinal direction relative to each other. The collar 510 may be mounted to the exterior surface of the first housing portion 502 using a press-fit or an interference-fit or other suitable mounting. The collar 510 comprises a threaded end portion 512 (threads are internal so not visible in Figure 9) configured to engage a complementary threaded portion on a mating electrical connector (see Figure 10). At least one locking member 520 is coupled to the collar 510. In this embodiment, a first 520 and second 522 locking member are provided on opposite sides of the collar 510. The locking members 520, 522 are moveable relative to the collar 510 and the first housing portion 502 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The locking members 520, 522 are each biased by a respective biasing member (not shown) towards the engaged position. The locking members 520, 522 are positioned and configured such that they can be depressed (i.e. actuated to the disengaged position) by a user's thumb and finger using one hand. An embodiment of the complementary electrical connector 600 is shown in Figure 10. This electrical connector 600 contains one or more electrical contacts 200 configured to mate with the electrical contacts of the electrical connector 500 (which may be referred to as a first electrical connector 500). For example, if electrical connector 500 comprises one or more electrical contacts of the type shown in Figures 2 or 8A, 8B of the present disclosure, then electrical connector 600 may comprise one or more electrical contacts of the type shown in Figures 3,4A, 4B of the present disclosure, or other types of "female" electrical contacts known in the art, or vice versa. The electrical connector 600 (which may be referred to as a second electrical connector 600) comprises a housing 602 having a base plate 606 configured to be secured to a surface by one or more fasteners inserted through apertures 608. The housing 602 further comprises a complementary threaded portion 604 configured to engage the threaded portion 512 of the collar 510. A mating face 612 is recessed inside the housing 602, such that an axial or longitudinal gap is provided between the mating face 612 and an end of the complementary threaded portion 604. The mating face 612 may be similar to the mating face in Figure 6. Apertures 610 are provided for receiving the electrical contacts provided in the connector 500. Keying may be provided as shown and described in connection with Figures 6 and 8A,8B. An aperture 616 is also provided for a ground pin. At least one biasing member 630 (see Figures 11 and 12) is provided in the housing 602 and is configured to bias the mating face 612 away from the electrical contacts in the housing 602, such that in the absence of axial pressure applied to the mating face 612, an axial gap is provided between the electrical contacts and the apertures 610. This at least one biasing member 630 may further improve the safety of the second electrical connector by providing an additional finger protection measure. Figure 11 shows the two electrical connectors 500, 600 when engaged, with the threaded portion 512 of the collar 510 screwed (manually or otherwise) into engagement with the complementary threaded portion 604 of the second electrical connector 600. The first electrical connector 500 is reconfigurable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, as shown in Figure 11, the first housing portion 502 has been axially displaced (by applying manual pressure) in a first direction (represented by the arrow) towards the end portion 512 of the collar 510 and the locking members 520, 522 engage a catch or groove 508 in the first housing portion 502, to thereby secure the collar 510 in a fixed axial position relative to the first housing portion 502. Due to the biasing force applied by the biasing members of the locking members 520, 522, to reconfigure the first electrical connector 500 to the locked configuration the first housing portion 502 may be axially displaced towards the collar 510 until the locking members 520, 522 click into engagement with the groove 508, such that no actuation of the locking members 520, 522 is required. The first electrical connector 500 may be configured to the locked configuration prior to engaging the threaded portions 512, 604. In the locked configuration, the collar 510 may be rotatable relative to the first housing portion 502, as the locking members 520, 522 can slide within the groove or channel 508, such that the first housing portion 502 is not required to rotate when torquing the threaded portions 512, 604. In some embodiments, the first electrical connector 500 may be provided (i.e. offered for sale) pre-set in the locked configuration. This may be more convenient for the end user. In the locked and engaged configuration an electrical connection is effected between the electrical contacts 100, 400 of the first electrical connector and corresponding electrical contacts of the second electrical connector 600. The electrical contacts 100, 400 of the first electrical connector are housed in a second housing portion 630 coupled to an interior surface of the first housing portion 502. In Figure 11 the second electrical connector 600 comprises the electrical contacts 200 as shown in Figures 3, 4A and 4B. The mating face of the second housing portion 630 compresses the mating face 612 of the second electrical connector 600 against a biasing force applied by springs 630 and the contact compression spring 230 as the threaded portions 512, 604 are torqued. The electrical contact surface of the sliding member 220 then axially engages the electrical contact surface of the electrical contact 100, 400 to generate an electrical connection between the two connectors. To disengage the electrical connection between the electrical connectors 500, 600 a user simply needs to press the locking members 520, 522 to disengage (or remove) the locking members 520, 522 from the catch or groove 508 (as shown in Figure 13). This unlocked configuration is shown in Figures 12 and 13. The disengagement of the locking members 520, 522 allows the first housing portion to move along a longitudinal axis of the housing away from the collar 510 (as represented by the arrows in Figures 12 and 13). Due to the biasing force applied by spring 630 and 230 in the second electrical connector, the disengagement of the locking members 520, 522 causes the first housing portion 502 to be rapidly displaced along the longitudinal axis of the housing away from the second electrical connector 600 and relative to the collar 510 (as represented by the arrows in Figures 12 and 13). This results in the disconnection of the electrical connection between the two connectors 500, 600, as the electrical contacts 100, 400 in the first electrical connector are pushed away from the second electrical connector 600. The collar 510 remains mounted on the first housing portion 502, such that these two components remain physically coupled following disengagement of the locking member 520, 522. Thus, there is a quick-disconnection mechanism provided, which is desirable in applications requiring fast switching or disconnection, such as emergency power-off scenarios. Following disengagement of the locking members 520, 522, a gap is provided between the electrical contacts of the two electrical connectors 500, 600, wherein the gap is sufficient to prevent electrical arcing between the electrical contacts. The two electrical connectors 500, 600 will remain physically connected following disengagement of the locking members 520, 522 (and the resulting termination of the electrical connection). This is because the threaded portions 512, 604 are still engaged, as shown in Figure 12 and 13. To physically separate the two electrical connectors 500, 600 the collar 510 is then rotated to unscrew the threaded portion 612 from the complementary threaded portion 604. This process is less time-critical, as the electrical connection has already been safely terminated. Accordingly, there has been described embodiments of various electrical contacts, housings and electrical connectors that form part of the present disclosure. Although particular embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it will be appreciated that many modifications / additions and / or substitutions may be made within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A housing (300) for an electrical connector (500, 600), the housing (300) comprising: a body formed of an electrically insulating material, wherein the body comprises a mating face (302) defining an aperture (310) configured to provide access to a channel through the body to a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing (300); andwherein the body includes a positive keyed portion (304) configured to partially occlude the aperture (310).

2. The housing (300) of claim 1, wherein the positive keyed portion (304) extends from a perimeter of the aperture (310) at least partially across the aperture (310).

3. The housing (300) of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the positive keyed portion (304) is located at least coincident with the aperture (310).

4. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the body defines a collar (306) projecting beyond the mating face (302) and the positive keyed portion (304) is at least partially defined within the collar (306).

5. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the positive keyed portion (304) has a length that extends within the channel.

6. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the positive keyed portion (304) is configured such that a test probe as defined by the UL standard - UL 1977:2022-12-07 cannot be inserted into the aperture (310), or is restricted from making contact with a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing (300) via the aperture (310).

7. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the positive keyed portion (304) is dimensioned such that a rigid object having a diameter of between 5 and 8 mm and a height of 90 mm cannot be inserted into the aperture (310), or is restricted from making contact with a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing (300) via the aperture (310).

8. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the positive keyed portion (304) comprises a plurality of projections radially extending from the perimeter of the aperture (310).

9. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the mating face (302) further comprises an occlusion-free aperture (312) dimensioned to receive a ground pin operably provided in the housing (300), wherein said an occlusion-free aperture (312) is free of keying.

10. The housing (300) of any preceding claim, wherein the body further comprises:a plurality of apertures (310, 610) provided in the mating face (302), each aperture (310) configured to provide access to a channel through the body to a live electrical contact operably provided in the housing (300); anda plurality of keyed portions, each positive keyed portion (304) configured to at least partially occlude a respective aperture (310) of the plurality of apertures (310).

11. An electrical connector (500, 600), the electrical connector (500, 600) comprising:the housing (300) according to any preceding claim; andat least one electrical contact (400) provided in the housing (300), wherein a first end portion of each electrical contact (400) is configured to be coupled to a respective live electrical conductor and a second end portion of each electrical contact (400) is configured to be aligned with a respective one of the at least one apertures (310) defined in the mating face (302).

12. An electrical contact (400) comprising a rigid elongate body formed of an electrically conductive material, the rigid elongate body comprising:a first body portion (410) configured to be disposed in a housing (300) of an electrical connector (500, 600); anda second body portion (412) configured to be inserted into an aperture (310) defined within a housing (300) of a mating electrical connector (500, 600), the mating electrical connector (500, 600) having a keyed portion (304, 304a-304f) configured to partially occlude the aperture (310), wherein the second body portion (412) comprises a complementary keyed portion (422) that extends from an end of the rigid elongate body ina longitudinal direction along the second body portion (412) and operatively engages with and mates with the keyed portion (304, 304a-304f) of the aperture (310).

13. The electrical contact (400) of claim 12, wherein the complementary keyed portion5 (422) comprises a slot or groove (422) provided in an outer surface of the second bodyportion (412).

14. The electrical contact (400) of claim 13, wherein:the slot or groove (422) bifurcates the second body portion (412); or10 the complementary keyed portion comprises a plurality of circumferentiallyspaced slots (424).

15. The electrical contact (400) of any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the first body portion (410) comprises an alignment feature configured to engage with a complementary15 alignment feature in the housing (300) of the electrical connector, wherein the alignment feature comprises a projection or a slot.