Self-lubricating connector

Abstract

To provide a connector and lubricating system having a lubricating device for reducing wear on the contact of the connector as the contact is moved between a first position and a second position.SOLUTION: A self-lubricating connector (10, 110) with a housing (112) having a contact receiving cavity (118) with a contact (140) is provided. A lubricating device (120) is positioned in the housing (112) proximate the contact (140). The lubricating device (120) extends into the contact receiving cavity (118) and has lubricant provided therein. The lubricant from the lubricating device (120) is deposited on an outside surface (144) of the contact (140) as the contact (140) is moved between a first position and a second position, which reduces wear on the contact (140) as the contact (140) is moved between the first position and the second position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention is directed to a lubricated connector having a lubrication device that applies lubrication to the outer surfaces of the contacts as the contacts are moved between a first position and a second position, thereby reducing wear on the contacts as the contacts are moved between the first position and the second position. [Background technology]

[0002] Durability and insertion force performance of electrical connections are technical challenges that can limit the useful life of components used in applications such as, but not limited to, high-power motors, hybrid and electric mobility solutions, appliances, industry, and communications, which require stable electrical and mechanical contact performance and, in some cases, a larger number of contact pins.

[0003] To improve the performance of such connections, lubricants may be used to reduce friction and wear at the mating interface and enhance mating cycle performance. Particularly with precious metal-plated connectors, an effective lubricant reduces the likelihood of precious metal wear during mating and unmating. Lubricants may also be used to mitigate corrosion degradation. Lubricants may be used to improve stable contact performance by reducing wear and / or demonstrating durability and / or protecting against environmental exposure.

[0004] Typically, the lubricant is pre-applied to the contacts during manufacture, and as connectors are mated and unmated, the pre-applied lubricant is removed or otherwise degraded, reducing its ability to provide performance enhancements. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved is to provide a lubrication system and connector having a lubricating device that reduces wear on the contacts of the connector as the contacts are moved between a first position and a second position, and in particular to provide a self-lubricating connector that applies or deposits lubrication on the outer surface of the contacts as the contacts are moved between the first position and the second position. It would be beneficial to [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This problem is solved by a self-lubricating connector having a housing with a contact-receiving cavity in which the contacts are disposed. A lubricating device is disposed in the housing proximate to the contacts. The lubricating device extends into the contact-receiving cavity and is provided with a lubricant. As the contacts are moved between a first position and a second position, lubricant from the lubricating device is deposited on the outer surfaces of the contacts, thereby reducing wear on the contacts as they are moved between the first position and the second position.

[0007] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first exemplary embodiment of a lubrication system for lubricating mating electrical contacts according to the present invention, illustrating an electrical connector in an unmated condition, with a lubrication device disposed on the connector shown in a first position. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 1 shown in a mated state in which mating electrical contacts of the mating connector are engaged with electrical contacts of the connector, the lubrication device being shown in a second position. [Figure 3]FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary embodiment of a lubrication system for lubricating mating electrical contacts according to the present invention, illustrating an electrical connector and a mating electrical connector in an unmated state, with a second alternative lubrication device disposed on the connector. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 3 with a mating connector partially inserted into the connector. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 3 with the mating connector fully inserted into the connector. [Figure 6] 6 is a cross-sectional view of the lubricating device taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a third exemplary embodiment of a lubrication system for lubricating mating electrical contacts according to the present invention, illustrating an electrical connector and a mating electrical connector, with a third alternative lubrication device shown disposed on the mating connector, and the connector and mating connector shown in an unmated state. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 7 with a mating connector partially inserted into the connector. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 7 with the mating connector fully inserted into the connector. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a lubrication system for lubricating mating electrical contacts according to the present invention, illustrating an electrical connector and a mating electrical connector, with a fourth alternative lubrication device shown disposed on the mating connector, and the connector and mating connector shown in an unmated state. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 10 with the mating connector partially inserted into the connector. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 10 with the mating connector fully inserted into the connector. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of a lubrication system for lubricating mating electrical contacts according to the present invention, illustrating an electrical contact and a mating electrical contact in an unmated state, with a fifth alternative lubrication device disposed on the contacts. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 13 with the mating contact fully inserted into the contact. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of a lubrication system having an electrical contact in which the lubrication device is disposed. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the lubrication system with electrical contacts of FIG. 15, the electrical contacts and connectors shown in an unmated state. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 16 with the mating connector partially inserted into the connector. [Figure 18] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 16 with the electrical contact fully inserted into the connector. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of the lubrication system, with the electrical contacts and connector shown in an unmated state. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 19 with the mating connector partially inserted into the connector. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lubrication system of FIG. 19 with the electrical contact fully inserted into the connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cover 60 shown in FIG. 1 has a housing 62 to which a cap 64 is attached. One or more lubricant-receiving recesses 66 extend through the housing 62 and the cap 64. A lubricating device 68 is provided in the lubricant-receiving recesses 66. In this exemplary embodiment, the lubricating device includes a solid lubricant. The solid lubricant may be any lubricant that provides lubricity that protects the surface to which it is applied. For example, a solid lubricant such as graphite may be used. Alternatively, a liquid lubricant may be used depending on the application.

[0010] One or more springs 70 are disposed in the lubricant receiving recess 66. The springs 70 extend between an end wall 72 of the cap 64 and the lubricating device 68. A lubricant receiving area 74 is attached to the housing 62 at the end of the lubricant receiving recess 66 opposite the end wall 72. The lubricant receiving area 74 is configured to receive lubricant from the lubricating device 68. The lubricant receiving area 74 may be, but is not limited to, a felt pad.

[0011] The lubricating device 68 is movable in the lubricant receiving recess 66 between a first position, shown in Figure 1, and a second position, shown in Figure 2. In the first position, a protrusion 76 of the lubricating device 68 engages a shoulder 78 of the housing 62. In this position, the lubricating device 68 is prevented from further movement away from the end wall 72. In this position, the lubricating device 68 engages a lubricant receiving area 74. The force of the spring 70 maintains the lubricating device 68 in the first position until a greater force is applied.

[0012] During use, the cover 60 is moved into engagement with the electrical connector 10. The electrical connector 10 has a housing 12 having one or more mating contact-receiving openings 14. The housing 12 has one or more electrical contacts 16 disposed in one or more electrical contact-receiving cavities 18. The contacts may be made from any suitable electrically conductive material, including but not limited to noble metals. In the illustrated embodiment, the contacts 16 are pins, although other contacts may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0013] As the cover 60 and electrical connector 10 are moved together, the contacts 16 engage the lubricating device 68. Because the insertion force of the contacts against the lubricating device 68 is greater than the spring force of the spring 70, the spring 70 is compressed, thereby forcing the lubricating device 68 to the second position. 2. As this occurs, lubricant from lubrication device 68 is transferred, deposited, or applied to lubrication-receiving area 74, such as by a wiping action. Continuing to move contact 16 toward cover 60 moves contact 16 into engagement with lubrication-receiving area 74. As this occurs, lubricant from lubrication device 68 is transferred, deposited, or applied to lubrication-receiving area 74, such as by a wiping action, as shown by area 46 in FIG. 2.

[0014] As the connector 10 and contacts 16 are removed from the cover 60, the spring 70 returns toward its unstressed position, thereby returning the lubricating device 68 to the first position. As the lubricating device 68 moves toward the first position, lubricant from the lubricating device 68 is again transferred, deposited, or applied to the lubrication-receiving area 74, such as by a wiping action.

[0015] By transferring lubricant to the lubrication receiving area 74 and the contact 16, wear on the contact 16 is minimized when the contact 16 is mated with a mating contact, thereby allowing the contact 16 to be used for multiple cycles.

[0016] The cover 60 can be used for multiple cycles to transfer, deposit, or apply lubricant to the contacts 16. Additionally, the lubricant device 68 may be replaced as needed by removing the cap 64 from the housing 62 to access and replace the lubricant device 68.

[0017] 3-5, electrical connector 110 includes a housing 112 having one or more mating contact-receiving openings 114. Housing 112 includes one or more electrical contacts 116 disposed in one or more electrical contact-receiving cavities 118. In the illustrated embodiment, contacts 116 are spring contacts, although other contacts may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0018] One or more lubricating devices 120 are disposed between the mating contact receiving openings 114 and the electrical contacts 116. In this exemplary embodiment, the lubricating device comprises a solid lubricant. The solid lubricant may be any lubricant that protects the surface to which it is applied and provides lubricity that provides smooth operation during mating and unmating of the connector 110 over time. For example, a solid lubricant such as graphite may be used. Alternatively, a liquid lubricant may be used depending on the application.

[0019] 3-5, one or more lubricating devices 120 extend from the ends of one or more resilient or spring members 122. Walls or protrusions 124 are provided in housing 112 to form spring receiving recesses 126 that receive spring members 122 and maintain them in position relative to mating contact receiving openings 114 and electrical contacts 116, thereby preventing spring members 122 from moving in directions parallel to longitudinal axis 128 of housing 112 while allowing spring members 122 to resiliently deform in a direction substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis 128 of housing 112. Spring members 122 may be retained in spring receiving recesses 126 by friction or other known means.

[0020] 6, the lubricating devices 120 may be positioned at various locations around the contact-receiving cavity 118. The lubricating devices 120 extend into the contact-receiving cavity 118. The number and placement of the lubricating devices 120 may vary depending on the particular application and environment in which the connector 110 will be used. In the illustrated embodiment, eight lubricating devices 120 are provided to provide eight contact points between the lubricating devices 120 and the mating contacts. However, other numbers of lubricating devices 120 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0021] In use, one or more mating contacts 140 are inserted into the connector housing 112 and form electrical connections with one or more of the contacts 116. The mating contacts 140 may be housed in a mating connector (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the mating contacts 140 are pins, although mating contacts of other configurations may be used.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 4, the mating contact 140 is inserted into the mating contact receiving opening 114. As this occurs, the mating contact 140 engages with the lubricating device 120. The opening 142 between the lubricating devices 120, shown in FIG. 6, has a diameter D1 that is smaller than the diameter D2 of the mating contact 140, shown in FIG. 3. Thus, as the mating contact 140 is inserted through the opening 142, the lubricating device 120 is displaced, which causes the spring member 122 to elastically deform. As this occurs, continued insertion of the mating contact 140 toward the contact 116 causes the lubricating device 120 to engage with the mating contact 140. 40 and exerts a force on the outer surface 144 . Continued insertion of the mating contact 140 results in the lubricant from the lubricating device 120 being deposited or applied to the outer surface 144 of the mating contact 140, as shown by area 146 of the mating contact 140 in FIG. 5. The mating contact 140, now with the lubricant coating 146 applied thereto, is then mated with the contact 116.

[0023] Additionally, as mating contact 140 is removed from contact 116 and housing 112, mating contact 140 re-engages lubricating device 120. As this occurs, removing mating contact 140 from contact 116 causes the lubricating device to engage and exert a force on outer surface 144 of mating contact 140. Continued removal of the mating contact 140 results in the lubricant from the lubricating device 120 being deposited or applied to the outer surface 144 of the mating contact 140 in areas similar to those described above.

[0024] By transferring lubricant as the mating contact 140 is mated and separated, wear on the mating contact 140 and contact 116 is minimized, allowing the mating contact 140 and contact 116 to be used over multiple cycles.

[0025] 7-9, an electrical connector 210 includes a housing 212 having one or more mating contact-receiving openings 214. The housing 212 includes one or more electrical contacts 216 disposed in one or more electrical contact-receiving cavities 218. In the illustrated embodiment, the contacts 216 are spring contacts, although other contacts may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0026] One or more mating contacts 240 are mounted to the housing or panel 250. The mating contacts 240 are inserted into the connector housing 212 and form electrical connections with one or more of the contacts 216. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating contacts 240 are pins, although other mating contact configurations may be used.

[0027] One or more lubricating devices 220 are positioned proximate the mating end 254 of the mating contact 240. In this exemplary embodiment, the lubricating devices 220 include a solid lubricant. The solid lubricant may be any lubricant that protects the surface to which it is applied and provides lubricity that provides smooth mating and unmating of the mating contact 240 with the connector 210 over time. For example, a solid lubricant such as graphite may be used. Alternatively, a liquid lubricant may be used depending on the application.

[0028] 7-9 , one or more lubricating devices 220 extend from the end of one or more spring members 222. The spring members 222 and mating contacts 240 are retained by a panel 250, which allows the spring members 222 to resiliently deform in a direction along the longitudinal axis 228 of the connector 210. An insulator sleeve 252 extends between the spring members 222 and the contacts 240. The spring members 222 are configured to resiliently deform or compress in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 228 of the housing 212.

[0029] As with the embodiment shown in Figures 3-6, the number and placement of lubricating devices 220 may vary depending on the particular application and environment in which connector 250 will be used.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 8, the mating contact 240 is inserted into the mating contact receiving opening 214. As this occurs, the mating contact 240 engages the lubricating device 220. The opening 242 between the lubricating devices 220, shown in FIG. 7, has a diameter D3 that is smaller than the diameter D4 of the mating contact 240. Thus, as the mating contact 240 is inserted through the opening 242, the lubricating device 220 is displaced, which causes the spring member 222 to elastically deform. As this occurs, continued insertion of the mating contact 240 toward the contact 216 causes the lubricating device to contact the outer surface 244 of the mating contact 240. and exerts a force on the outer surface 244. Continued insertion of mating contact 240 results in lubricant from lubricating device 220 being deposited or applied to outer surface 244 of mating contact 240, as shown by region 246 of mating contact 240 in FIG. 9. Mating contact 240, now with lubricant coating 246 applied, is then mated with contact 216.

[0031] Additionally, as mating contact 240 is removed from contact 216, mating contact 240 again engages lubricating device 220. As this occurs, removing mating contact 240 from contact 216 causes the lubricating device to engage and exert a force on outer surface 244 of mating contact 240. Continued removal of mating contact 240 results in lubricant from lubricating device 220 being deposited or applied to outer surface 244 of mating contact 240 in the same areas as described above.

[0032] By transferring lubricant as the mating contact 240 is mated and unmated, wear on the mating contact 240 and contact 216 is minimized, allowing the mating contact 240 and contact 216 to be used over multiple cycles.

[0033] 10-12, an electrical connector 310 includes a housing 312 having one or more mating contact-receiving openings 314. The housing 312 includes one or more electrical contacts 316 disposed in one or more electrical contact-receiving cavities 318. In the illustrated embodiment, the contacts 316 are spring contacts, although other contacts may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0034] The mating electrical connector 350 has a housing 352 with one or more contact openings 354. The housing 352 has one or more mating contacts 340 that are inserted into the connector housing 312 and form electrical connections with one or more of the contacts 316. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating contacts 340 are pins, although other configurations of mating contacts may be used.

[0035] One or more lubricating devices 320 are disposed between the mating contact openings 354 and the electrical contacts 340. In this exemplary embodiment, the lubricating devices include a solid lubricant. The solid lubricant may be any lubricant that protects the surface to which it is applied and provides lubricity that provides smooth operation during mating and unmating of the connector 310 and the mating connector 350 over time. For example, a solid lubricant such as graphite may be used. Alternatively, a liquid lubricant may be used depending on the application.

[0036] 10-12, one or more lubricating devices 320 extend from the ends of one or more spring members 322. Walls or protrusions 324 are provided in housing 312 to form spring receiving recesses 326 that receive and maintain spring members 322 in position relative to contact openings 314 and electrical contacts 340, thereby preventing spring members 322 from moving in a direction parallel to longitudinal axis 328 of housing 352, while allowing spring members 322 to resiliently deform in a direction substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis 328 of housing 352. Spring members 322 are attracted to spring receiving recesses 326 by friction or other known means. May be held at 6.

[0037] As with the embodiment shown in Figures 3-5, the number and placement of lubricating devices 320 may vary depending on the particular application and environment in which connector 350 will be used.

[0038] In use, one or more mating contacts 316 are inserted into the connector housing 352, as shown in FIG. 11 . Then, a mating contact 340 is inserted into the mating contact receiving opening 314, as shown in FIG. 12 . As this occurs, the mating contact 340 engages the lubricating device 320. The opening 342 between the lubricating devices 320, as shown in FIG. 10 , has a diameter D5 that is smaller than the diameter D6 of the mating contact 340. Thus, as the mating contact 340 is inserted through the opening 342, the lubricating device 320 is displaced, thereby elastically deforming the spring member 322. As this occurs, continued insertion of the mating contact 340 toward the contact 316 causes the lubricating device to engage and exert a force on the outer surface 344 of the mating contact 340. Continued insertion of mating contact 340 results in lubricant from lubricating device 320 being deposited or applied to outer surface 344 of mating contact 340, as shown by region 356 of mating contact 340 in FIG. 12. Mating contact 340, now with lubricant coating 356 applied, is then mated with contact 316.

[0039] Additionally, as mating contact 340 is removed from contact 316, mating contact 340 re-engages lubricating device 320. As this occurs, removing mating contact 340 from contact 316 causes the lubricating device to engage and exert a force on outer surface 344 of mating contact 340. Continued removal of mating contact 340 results in lubricant from lubricating device 320 being deposited or applied to outer surface 344 of mating contact 340 in the same areas as described above.

[0040] By transferring lubricant as the mating contact 340 is mated and unmated, wear on the mating contact 340 and contact 316 is minimized, allowing the mating contact 340 and contact 316 to be used over multiple cycles.

[0041] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the lubricating device 420 is disposed at the mating end 415 of the contact arm 417 of the electrical contact 416 .

[0042] In use, one or more mating contacts 440 are inserted into one or more contacts 416 and form electrical and mechanical connections with the one or more contacts 416. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating contacts 440 are pins, although other configurations of mating contacts may be used.

[0043] The mating contact 440 is inserted between the contacts 416. As this occurs, the mating contact 440 engages the lubricating device 420. The lubricating device 420 is spaced apart by a distance D7 that is smaller than the diameter D8 of the mating contact 440 shown in FIG. 13 . Thus, as the mating contact 440 is inserted between the contacts 416, the lubricating device 420 is displaced, thereby elastically deforming the contact arms 417 of the contacts 416. As this occurs, continued insertion of the mating contact 440 causes the lubricating device 420 to engage with and exert a force on the outer surface 444 of the mating contact 440. Continued insertion of the mating contact 440 results in the lubricant from the lubricating device 420 being deposited or applied to the outer surface 444 of the mating contact 440, as shown by area 446 of the mating contact 440 in FIG. 14. The mating contact 440, now with the lubricant coating 446 applied thereto, is then mated with the contact 416.

[0044] Additionally, as mating contact 440 is removed from contact 416, mating contact 440 re-engages lubricating device 420. As this occurs, removing mating contact 440 from contact 416 causes lubricating device 420 to engage and exert a force on outer surface 444 of mating contact 440. Continued removal of mating contact 440 results in lubricant from lubricating device 420 being deposited or applied to outer surface 444 of mating contact 440 in the same areas as described above.

[0045] Transferring lubricant as mating contacts 440 are mated and separated This minimizes wear on the mating contact 440 and the contact 416, Contacts 440 and 416 can be used for multiple cycles. It becomes Noh.

[0046] In addition to providing adequate lubrication, the embodiments shown in Figures 3-12 also allow for voltage drop measurement. As the lubricating device 120, 220, 320, 420 engages with the mating contact 140, 240, 340, 440, the lubricating device 120, 220, 320, 420 can be used as a first voltage pick-off point to measure a first voltage across the mating contact 140, 240, 340, 440. Points 190, 290, 390, 490 on the back of the contact 116, 216, 316, 416 can be used as second voltage pick-off points to measure a second voltage across the back of the contact 116, 216, 316, 416. By measuring the voltage at each point and comparing the measured voltages with known devices, the voltage drop can be determined.

[0047] 15-18, an electrical connector 510 includes a housing 512 having one or more mating contact-receiving openings 514. The housing 512 includes one or more electrical contacts 516 disposed in one or more electrical contact-receiving cavities 518. In the illustrated embodiment, the contacts 516 are spring contacts, although other contacts may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0048] Each of the mating contacts 540, which may be received in a mating connector (not shown), includes a contact portion 530, a lubricated portion 532, and a lead-in portion 534. The contact portion 530 is made from a conductive material, such as, but not limited to, silver-plated copper. The lead-in portion 534 is made from a non-conductive material, such as, but not limited to, plastic.

[0049] The lubricant portion 532, located adjacent the free end of the mating contact 540, includes one or more lubricating devices 520. In this exemplary embodiment, the lubricating device includes a solid lubricant disposed flush with the outer surface 531 of the contact portion 530. The solid lubricant may be any lubricant that protects the surface to which it is applied and provides lubricity that provides smooth operation during mating and unmating of the mating contact 540 over time. The solid lubricant may be, but is not limited to, graphite. Alternatively, a liquid lubricant may be used, depending on the application. The lubricating device 520 may have a uniform outer surface 522 or may have protrusions (not shown) disposed at various locations around the outer surface 522.

[0050] In use, one or more mating contacts 540 are inserted into the connector housing 512 and form an electrical connection with one or more of the contacts 516. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating contacts 540 are pins, although other configurations of mating contacts may be used.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 16 , a mating contact 540 is inserted into a mating contact-receiving opening 514 in the housing 512. As this occurs, the lead-in portion 534 of the mating contact 540 engages the end 536 of the contact 516, thereby separating the ends 536 and resiliently moving the contact 516 from the unstressed position ( FIG. 16 ) to the stressed position ( FIGS. 17 and 18 ). Continued insertion causes the contact portion 538 of the contact 516 to move into engagement with the mating contact 540. With the contact 516 in the stressed position, the contact portion 538 exerts a normal force on the mating contact 540, ensuring that the contact portion 538 remains mechanically engaged with the mating contact 540.

[0052] Continued insertion of the mating contact 540 moves the contact portion 538 across the lubricating device 520 of the lubricated portion 532 of the mating contact 540. As the contact portion 538 exerts a normal force on the lubricating device 520, continued insertion of the mating contact 540 results in lubricant from the lubricating device 520 being deposited or applied to the contact portion 538 of the contact 516, thereby coating the contact portion 538 with the lubricant.

[0053] As insertion continues, lubricating device 520 moves past contact portion 538 and contact portion 530 moves into engagement with contact portion 538. Continued insertion causes coated contact portion 538 to slide across outer surface 531 of contact portion 530. As contact portion 538 continues to exert a normal force on outer surface 531 of contact portion 530, some of the lubricant transfers from contact portion 538 to outer surface 531 of contact portion 530, as shown by region 546 in FIG.

[0054] As the mating contact 540 is removed from the contact 516 and the housing 512, the coated contact portion 538 slides across the transfer area 546 to facilitate removal of the mating contact 540 from the housing 512. Additionally, during removal of the mating contact 540, the contact portion 538 re-engages with the lubricating device 520, causing lubricant from the lubricating device 520 to be deposited or applied to the contact portion 538 in the same areas as described above, thereby preparing the contact portion 538 for further mating.

[0055] By transferring lubricant as the mating contact 540 is mated and unmated, wear on the mating contact 540 and contact 516 is minimized, allowing the mating contact 540 and contact 516 to be used over multiple cycles.

[0056] 19-21, an electrical connector 610 includes a housing 612 having one or more mating contact-receiving openings 614. The housing 612 includes one or more electrical contacts 616 disposed in one or more electrical contact-receiving cavities 618. In the illustrated embodiment, the contacts 616 are spring contacts, although other contacts may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The housing 612 also contains one or more transfer mechanisms 680 disposed in the contact-receiving cavities 618.

[0057] Each transfer mechanism 680 has a series of contact springs 682 disposed about the periphery of the transfer mechanism 680. The contact springs 682 have contact portions 684 that extend into the contact-receiving cavity 618. A diameter D3 between the contact portions 684 is smaller than a diameter D5 of the mating contact 640, as shown in FIG.

[0058] Each of the mating contacts 640, which may be received in a mating connector (not shown), includes a contact portion 630, a lubricated portion 632, and a lead-in portion 634. The contact portion 630 is made from a conductive material such as, but not limited to, silver-plated copper. The lead-in portion 634 is made from a non-conductive material such as, but not limited to, plastic.

[0059] The lubricant portion 632, located adjacent the free end of the mating contact 640, includes one or more lubricating devices 620. In this exemplary embodiment, the lubricating device includes a solid lubricant disposed flush with the outer surface 631 of the contact portion 630. The solid lubricant may be any lubricant that protects the surface to which it is applied and provides lubricity that provides smooth operation during mating and unmating of the mating contact 640 over time. The solid lubricant may be, but is not limited to, graphite. Alternatively, a liquid lubricant may be used, depending on the application. The lubricating device 620 may have a uniform outer surface 622 or may have protrusions (not shown) disposed at various locations around the outer surface 622.

[0060] In use, one or more mating contacts 640 are inserted into the connector housing 612 and form an electrical connection with one or more of the contacts 616. In the illustrated embodiment, the mating contacts 640 are pins, although other configurations of mating contacts may be used.

[0061] 19, a mating contact 640 is inserted into a mating contact receiving opening 614 in the housing 612. As this occurs, the retracting portion 634 of the mating contact 640 engages the contact portion 684 of the contact spring 682 of the transfer mechanism 680, thereby separating the contact portions 684 and causing the contact spring 682 to resiliently move from the unstressed position (FIG. 19) to the stressed position (FIG. 20). With the contact spring 682 in the stressed position, the contact portion 684 exerts a normal force on the mating contact 640, which ensures that the contact portion 684 remains mechanically engaged with the mating contact 640.

[0062] Continued insertion of the mating contact 640 moves the contact portion 684 across the lubricating device 620 of the lubricated portion 632 of the mating contact 640. As the contact portion 684 exerts a normal force on the lubricating device 620, continued insertion of the mating contact 640 results in lubricant from the lubricating device 620 being deposited or applied to the contact portion 684 of the contact spring 682, thereby coating the contact portion 684 with the lubricant.

[0063] As insertion continues, lubricating device 620 moves past contact portion 684 and contact portion 630 moves into engagement with contact portion 684. Continued insertion causes coated contact portion 684 to slide across outer surface 631 of contact portion 630. As contact portion 684 continues to exert a normal force on outer surface 631 of contact portion 630, some of the lubricant transfers from contact portion 684 to outer surface 631 of contact portion 630, as shown by region 646 in FIG.

[0064] As insertion continues, the retracting portion 634 of the mating contact 640 engages the end 636 of the contact 616, thereby moving the ends 636 apart and causing the contact 616 to resiliently move from the unstressed position ( FIG. 20 ) to the stressed position ( FIG. 21 ). As insertion continues, the contact portion 638 of the contact 616 moves into engagement with the mating contact 640. With the contact 616 in the stressed position, the contact portion 638 exerts a normal force on the mating contact 640, which ensures that the contact portion 638 remains mechanically engaged with the mating contact 640.

[0065] Continued insertion of mating contact 640 moves contact portion 638 across lubricating device 620 of lubricated portion 632 of mating contact 640. As contact portion 638 exerts a normal force on lubricating device 640, continued insertion of mating contact 640 results in lubricant from lubricating device 620 being deposited or applied to contact portion 638 of contact 616, thereby coating contact portion 638 with lubricant.

[0066] As insertion continues, lubricating device 620 moves past contact portion 638 and contact portion 630 moves into engagement with contact portion 638. Continued insertion causes coated contact portion 638 to slide across outer surface 631 of contact portion 630. As contact portion 638 continues to exert a normal force on outer surface 631 of contact portion 630, some of the lubricant transfers from contact portion 638 to outer surface 631 of contact portion 630, as shown by region 647 in FIG.

[0067] As mating contact 640 is removed from contact 616 and housing 612, coated contact portion 684 and coated contact portion 638 slide across transfer regions 646 and 647 to facilitate removal of mating contact 640 from housing 612. Additionally, during removal of mating contact 640, contact portion 684 and contact portion 638 re-engage with lubricating device 620, causing lubricant from lubricating device 620 to be deposited or applied to contact portion 684 and contact portion 638 in the same areas as described above, thereby preparing contact portion 684 and contact portion 638 for further mating.

[0068] By transferring lubricant as the mating contact 640 is mated and unmated, wear on the mating contact 640 and contact 616 is minimized, allowing the mating contact 640 and contact 616 to be used over multiple cycles.

[0069] In the exemplary embodiment, the transfer mechanism 680 is used in combination with the spring contact 616, however, the use of a transfer mechanism may be used with many different types of contacts.

[0070] The present invention is applicable to any mating contacts, including hermaphroditic contacts. The provision of a lubricating device can make the connector and / or contacts self-lubricating, so that when the connector contacts are mated or separated, lubricant from the lubricating device can be transferred, deposited, or applied to the contacts, thereby reducing contact wear and improving the mating cycle and service life of the contacts and connector.

Claims

1. a housing (12, 112, 212, 312) having a contact-receiving cavity (18, 118, 218, 318) in which a contact (16, 116, 216, 316) is disposed; a lubrication device (20, 120, 220, 320) disposed in the housing (12, 112, 212, 312) adjacent to the contacts (16, 116, 216, 316), The lubrication device (20, 120, 220, 320) a circular base; a plurality of spring members (122, 222, 322) extending a predetermined length from the inner peripheral surface of the base toward the center thereof and spaced apart in the circumferential direction; a solid lubricant attached to at least the tip side of each of the plurality of spring members (122, 222, 322). Self-lubricating connector (10, 110, 210, 310).

2. The diameter (D1) of an imaginary circle identified at the tip end of each of the plurality of spring members (122, 222, 322) in a free state is The diameter (D2) of the outer circumferential surface of the mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340) is smaller than that of the mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340). The self-lubricating connector (10, 110, 210, 310) of claim 1.

3. Each of the plurality of spring members (122, 222, 322) When a mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340) is inserted into the lubrication device (20, 120, 220, 320), the mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340) is elastically deformed in the insertion direction, The self-lubricating connector (10, 110, 210, 310) of claim 1, wherein the solid lubricant is deposited on the outer surface (44, 144, 244, 344) of the mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340) as the elastic deformation accompanies the solid lubricant.

4. Each of the plurality of spring members (122, 222, 322) a front surface into which a mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340) is inserted; The solid lubricant is The self-lubricating connector (10, 110, 210, 310) of claim 1 , attached to at least said front surface.

5. The lubrication device (120, 220, 320) The self-lubricating connector (10, 110, 210, 310) according to claim 1, wherein the mating contact (40, 140, 240, 340) is positioned forward of the contact (16, 116, 216, 316) in an insertion orientation of the mating contact.

6. one or more contact arms (417); a lubrication device (420) disposed on the mating end (415) of the one or more contact arms (417), the lubrication device (420) being provided with a lubricant; A lubricated contact (416) comprising: As the mating contact (420) is moved into electrical and mechanical engagement with the one or more contact arms (417), the lubricant from the lubrication device (420) is deposited on an outer surface (444) of the mating contact (420), thereby reducing wear on the mating contact (420) and the one or more contact arms (417) as the mating contact (420) and the lubricated contact (416) are moved into and out of engagement. Lubricated contacts (416).

7. A self-lubricating connector comprising a contact (540) having a lubrication device (520), the lubrication device (520) being disposed proximate a mating end (534) of the contact (540), the lubrication device (520) being provided with a lubricant; A self-lubricating connector in which the lubricant is transferred to the surface of the contact (540) as the contact (540) is mated with the mating connector (510), thereby reducing wear on the contact (540) as the contact (540) is moved between a first position and a second position.

8. 8. The self-lubricating connector of claim 7, wherein the mating connector (510) has spring contacts (516) that exert a normal force on the contacts (540) as the contacts (540) mate with the mating connector (510), and the spring contacts (516) transfer the lubricant from the lubrication device (520) to a surface (531) of the contacts (540) as the contacts mate with the mating connector (510).

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