Miniature Multi-Position Plugs and Receptacles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a multi-pole plug, a multi-pole receptacle, and a system including a multi-pole plug and a multi-pole receptacle.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a miniature multipole plug and receptacle, and a miniature multipole system comprising these two components. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrical connectors are used in almost every industry where two objects need to be electrically connected. For example, in applications such as hearing aids and ear monitors used in the security, TV, and music industries, space and appearance are very important, and the size of the electrical connector needs to be reduced, for example, to fit into the electrical device. Examples of such connectors are the widely known micro-jack and mini-jack connectors, used, for example, in mobile phones, mp3 players, etc. to connect earphones to the device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] However, electrical connectors generally require more robust plug and receptacle solutions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Disclosed herein is a multi-pole plug configured to electrically contact components within a corresponding multi-pole receptacle when the plug and receptacle are mated.

[0005] Multi-pole plugs are usually a non-conductive plug housing having a front end opening and a rear end opening; a cable strain relief extending through the rear end opening of the plug housing, the cable strain relief including a through relief opening configured to have a cable extending therethrough; a plurality of upper conductive electrodes configured to electrically contact a plurality of upper receptacle conductive arms of the multi-pole receptacle; a plurality of lower conductive electrodes configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower receptacle conductive arms of the multi-pole receptacle; a plug plate extending through the front end opening of the plug housing, the plug plate being substantially flat; a non-conductive top layer supporting a plurality of upper conductive electrodes; a non-conductive bottom layer supporting a plurality of lower conductive electrodes; a maximum plug plate length extending from the front end of the plug plate to the rear end of the plug plate; a maximum plug plate width extending from a first side of the plug plate to an opposing second side of the plug plate; a maximum plug plate height extending between the top and bottom layers; Equipped with.

[0006] In a first embodiment of the multi-position plug, the front-end opening of the plug housing tapers inward, thereby forming a funnel-plug-plate connection that extends rearward in a funnel-like shape within the front-end opening. This provides a more aesthetically appealing appearance to the plug. Furthermore, during plug assembly, the inward funnel shape improves material control at the joint between the plug housing front-end opening and the plug plate. For example, welding, adhesive bonding, etc. can be used to form an airtight and dust-tight connection when assembling the plug plate and plug housing. By tapering the front-end opening of the plug housing inward, soldering / adhesive material can be positioned within the funnel, thereby preventing excess soldering / adhesive material from extending outside the funnel-plug-plate connection.

[0007] In a second embodiment of the multi-pole plug, the plug plate further includes a side recess having a recess plug plate width less than the maximum plug plate width. The side recess is typically configured to be engaged by a receptacle spring in the multi-pole receptacle, thereby securing the multi-pole plug within the multi-pole receptacle. This provides a very robust locking function, with the plug plate performing the locking function in addition to supporting the conductive electrodes. Therefore, the plug and receptacle can be assembled / disassembled significantly more times than plug and receptacle systems in which the locking and securing functions are provided within the conductive components.

[0008] In a third aspect of the multi-pole plug, the plug housing includes a plug housing front configured to be positioned within the receptacle housing when the multi-pole plug and multi-pole receptacle are connected, and a plug plate extends through the plug housing front to divide the plug housing front into a bottom plug housing front extending below the plug plate and a top plug housing front extending above the plug plate. The bottom plug housing front has a peripheral bottom plug housing curvature that is different from the peripheral top plug housing curvature of the top plug housing front, thereby giving the plug housing front an asymmetrical circumference. This asymmetry ensures that the multi-pole plug cannot be inserted into the multi-pole receptacle when the multi-pole plug is rotated 180 degrees relative to the correct orientation of the multi-pole plug. Thus, the asymmetrical perimeter of the plug housing ensures that the upper conductive electrodes on the plug plate can be electrically connected only to the upper conductive arms in the receptacle, and that the lower conductive electrodes on the plug plate can be electrically connected only to the lower conductive arms in the receptacle, so that the upper and lower conductive electrodes can be assigned different functions. Thus, the asymmetry that ensures a reliable connection only when the plug and receptacle are properly rotated is not a feature of the fragile conductive components in the plug and receptacle, but rather a feature of the conductive components in the much more stable, non-conductive plug housing.

[0009] In a fourth aspect of the multipolar plug, the plug plate includes a conductive center layer positioned between the top layer and the bottom layer. The multipolar plug further includes a cable extending through the through-relief opening of the cable strain relief. The cable includes a plurality of wires connected to the plurality of upper conductive electrodes and the plurality of lower conductive electrodes, thereby forming an electrical connection. The cable also includes at least one conductive outer shield layer forming an electrical shield from the plurality of wires, and the at least one conductive outer layer is connected to the conductive center layer of the plug plate, thereby forming an electrical connection. The upper and lower conductive electrodes may be configured to electrically contact a plurality of conductive arms in the multipolar receptacle when the multipolar plug is connected to the multipolar receptacle. The conductive center layer of the plug plate may be configured to electrically contact a conductive spring in the multipolar receptacle when the multipolar plug is connected to the multipolar receptacle. This ensures an additional electrical connection between the multipolar plug and the multipolar receptacle when they are connected. The additional electrical layer may also serve as an electrical ground layer connection.

[0010] The electrical connection between the conductive outer shield layer and the conductive center layer of the plug plate can be a mechanically formed press-fit connection effected by a thinning process or by using a conductive adhesive.

[0011] In one or more embodiments of the multi-pole plug according to the first, second, or fourth aspects, the plug housing includes a plug housing front configured to be positioned within the receptacle housing when the multi-pole plug and multi-pole receptacle are connected, and a plug plate extends through the plug housing front to divide the plug housing front into a bottom plug housing front extending below the plug plate and a top plug housing front extending above the plug plate, the bottom plug housing front having a peripheral bottom plug housing curvature that is different from the peripheral top plug housing curvature of the top plug housing front, thereby providing the plug housing front with an asymmetrical periphery.

[0012] Also, in one or more embodiments of the multi-pole plug according to the first, third or fourth aspect, the plug plate further comprises a side recessed portion, the side recessed portion having a recessed plug plate width that is less than the maximum plug plate width, and configured to be engaged by a receptacle spring in the multi-pole receptacle, thereby securing the multi-pole plug in the multi-pole receptacle.

[0013] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments of the multi-pole plug according to the second, third, or fourth aspect, the front end opening of the plug housing tapers inward, thereby forming a funnel plug plate connection portion that extends rearward in a funnel-like manner within the front end opening.

[0014] Additionally, in one or more embodiments of the multipolar plug according to the first, second, or third aspect, the plug plate includes a conductive center layer positioned between the top and bottom layers. The multipolar plug further includes a cable extending through the through-relief opening of the cable strain relief. The cable includes a plurality of wires connected to the plurality of upper conductive electrodes and the plurality of lower conductive electrodes, thereby forming an electrical connection. The cable also includes at least one conductive outer shield layer forming an electrical shield from the plurality of wires, and the at least one conductive outer layer is connected to the conductive center layer of the plug plate, thereby forming an electrical connection. The upper and lower conductive electrodes may be configured to electrically contact a plurality of conductive arms in the multipolar receptacle when the multipolar plug is connected to the multipolar receptacle. The conductive center layer of the plug plate may be configured to electrically contact a conductive spring in the multipolar receptacle when the multipolar plug is connected to the multipolar receptacle.

[0015] Thus, the details of the multi-pole plug defined in any of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects of the multi-pole plug may be a combination of two options with two options, three options with three options, or all four options.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the bottom front part of the plug housing is thicker than the top front part of the plug housing, which further enhances the asymmetry of the plug housing and ensures that the plug is always inserted into the correctly rotated receptacle.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the plug plate further includes a center layer positioned between the top and bottom layers, the center layer being a reinforcing layer that provides stability to the plug plate. The inclusion of the reinforcing layer in the plug plate in a sandwich-type structure provides additional strength to the plug plate. The reinforcing layer may be a metal reinforcing layer. The metal reinforcing layer does not affect the conductive components of the plug plate because the reinforcing layer is positioned between the two non-conductive materials that make up the top and bottom layers of the plug plate.

[0018] The plug housing includes a plug housing rear end and a plug housing front end, with an O-ring positioned between the plug housing rear end and the plug housing front end to provide an interference fit with the plug housing front end positioned within the multi-position receptacle.

[0019] The non-conductive parts in the plug may be plastic parts.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the plug further comprises a cable comprising a plurality of wires configured to connect to the plurality of upper and lower conductive electrodes, such that the number of wires typically corresponds to the number of upper and lower conductive electrodes.

[0021] The plug housing and plug plate may have a combined length of less than 15.0 mm, such as less than 12.0 mm, such as less than 10.0 mm, such as less than 9.0 mm, such as 8.35 mm.

[0022] The plug housing may have a maximum plug housing height of less than 6 mm, such as less than 5 mm, such as less than 4 mm, such as 3.80 mm.

[0023] The plug housing may have a maximum plug housing width of less than 7.0 mm, such as less than 6.0 mm, such as less than 5.0 mm, such as 4.9 mm.

[0024] The maximum plug plate length may be less than 10.0 mm, such as less than 8.0 mm, such as less than 6.0 mm, such as less than 5.0 mm.

[0025] The maximum plug plate width may be less than 7.0 mm, such as less than 6.0 mm, such as less than 5.0 mm, such as less than 4.0 mm, such as less than 3.0 mm.

[0026] The maximum plug plate height may be less than 2.0 mm, such as less than 1.5 mm, such as less than 1.0 mm, such as less than 0.5 mm, such as less than 0.4 mm.

[0027] Thus, the multi-pole plug may be a miniature multi-pole plug.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the number of the plurality of upper conductive electrodes is at least 4, and the number of the plurality of lower conductive electrodes is at least 4. Five, six, seven, eight, or more upper and lower conductive electrodes are also contemplated.

[0029] As used herein, a multi-pole receptacle is provided that is configured to electrically contact components within a corresponding multi-pole plug when the multi-pole plug and the multi-pole receptacle are mated, a receptacle housing having a front end opening and a rear end opening; a plurality of upper conductive arms configured to electrically contact a plurality of upper conductive electrodes of the multipolar plug; a plurality of lower conductive arms configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower conductive electrodes of the multipolar plug; a receptacle insulating plate positioned within a rear end opening of the receptacle housing, the receptacle insulating plate comprising: at least one upper plate opening through which the upper conductive arm extends; at least one lower plate opening through which the lower conductive arm extends; A multi-pole receptacle is also disclosed, comprising:

[0030] In a first aspect of the multi-pole receptacle, the multi-pole receptacle further includes a spring secured within the spring recess of the receptacle insulating plate, the spring extending toward the front end opening of the receptacle housing, and configured to secure the multi-pole plug within the multi-pole receptacle. This provides a very robust locking function, and the spring has a locking function. Therefore, the plug and receptacle can be assembled / disassembled significantly more times than plug and receptacle systems in which the locking and fastening functions are provided within the conductive parts.

[0031] In a second embodiment of the multi-pole receptacle, the receptacle housing includes a receptacle housing front within which the plug housing front is positioned when the multi-pole plug and the multi-pole receptacle are connected, the receptacle housing front having an inner circumferential surface with a top receptacle housing curvature that is different from the bottom receptacle housing curvature, thereby providing the inner housing front with an asymmetric inner periphery. This asymmetry ensures that the multi-pole plug cannot be inserted into the multi-pole receptacle if the multi-pole plug is rotated 180 degrees relative to the correct orientation of the multi-pole plug. Thus, the asymmetric inner periphery of the receptacle housing ensures that the upper conductive electrodes on the plug plate can be electrically connected only to the upper conductive arms in the receptacle, and that the lower conductive electrodes on the plug plate can be electrically connected only to the lower conductive arms in the receptacle, thereby allowing the upper and lower conductive arms of the receptacle to be assigned different functions. Thus, the asymmetry that ensures a reliable connection only when the plug and receptacle are properly rotated is not a feature of the fragile conductive parts in the plug and receptacle, but rather of the conductive parts in the much more stable non-conductive plug housing.

[0032] In a third aspect of the multi-pole receptacle, the multi-pole receptacle further comprises a conductive spring secured in the spring recess of the receptacle insulating plate. The multi-pole receptacle also comprises a receptacle cable or a printed circuit board.

[0033] The receptacle cable may include a plurality of receptacle wires configured to be connected to the plurality of upper conductive arms and the plurality of lower conductive arms, thereby forming the electrical connection. The receptacle cable may further include at least one spring conductive shield layer shielded from the plurality of receptacle wires and connected to the spring, thereby forming the electrical connection.

[0034] The printed circuit board includes a plurality of upper conductive arms, a plurality of lower conductive arms, and a plurality of connection points configured to connect to the springs, thereby forming electrical connections.

[0035] This ensures an additional electrical connection between the multi-pole plug and the multi-pole receptacle when they are connected. The additional electrical connection may ensure a connection with the electrical ground layer of the multi-pole plug and an electrical spring connection of the multi-pole receptacle. The electrical ground layer may be connected to the cable shield.

[0036] The electrical connection between the spring conductive shield layer and the spring can be a mechanically formed press-fit connection effected by the thinning process or by using a conductive adhesive.

[0037] In one or more embodiments of the multi-pole receptacle according to the first or third aspect, the receptacle housing comprises a receptacle housing front within which the plug housing front is positioned when the multi-pole plug and multi-pole receptacle are connected, the receptacle housing front having an inner circumferential surface with a top receptacle housing curvature that is different from the bottom receptacle housing curvature, thereby providing the inner housing front with an asymmetric inner periphery.

[0038] In one or more embodiments of the multi-pole receptacle according to the second or third aspect, the multi-pole receptacle further comprises a spring secured within the spring recess of the receptacle insulator plate, the spring extending toward the front end opening of the receptacle housing, the spring configured to secure the multi-pole plug within the multi-pole receptacle.

[0039] In one or more embodiments of the multi-pole receptacle according to the first or second aspect, the multi-pole receptacle further comprises a conductive spring secured within the spring recess of the receptacle insulating plate. The multi-pole receptacle also comprises a receptacle cable or a printed circuit board.

[0040] The receptacle cable may include a plurality of receptacle wires configured to be connected to the plurality of upper conductive arms and the plurality of lower conductive arms, thereby forming the electrical connection. The receptacle cable may further include at least one spring conductive shield layer shielded from the plurality of receptacle wires and connected to the spring, thereby forming the electrical connection.

[0041] The printed circuit board includes a plurality of upper conductive arms, a plurality of lower conductive arms, and a plurality of connection points configured to connect to the springs, thereby forming electrical connections.

[0042] Thus, the details of the multi-pole receptacle defined in the first, second and third aspects of the multi-pole receptacle may be combined as a combination of two options with two options or all three options.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the upper conductive arms are closer to the inner top wall of the receptacle housing than the lower conductive arms are to the inner bottom wall, which further ensures the asymmetry of the plug housing and ensures that the plug is always inserted into the correctly rotated receptacle.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the receptacle insulator plate comprises: at least one upper plate support surface, wherein a rear end of each upper conductive arm is secured between the at least one upper plate support surface and the receptacle housing; at least one lower plate support surface, wherein a rear end of each lower conductive arm is secured between the at least one lower plate support surface and the receptacle housing; Furthermore, When connecting a multi-pole plug and a multi-pole receptacle, the front ends of the upper and lower conductive arms can bend away from each other when the plug plate of the multi-pole plug is inserted between the upper and lower conductive arms.

[0045] This provides a very stable system for securing each conductive arm within the receptacle while at the same time ensuring that each conductive arm is able to flex.

[0046] There may be several receptacle housing separation pieces between the conductive arms. A bottom receptacle housing separation piece typically separates each of the lower conductive arms. A top receptacle housing separation piece typically separates each of the upper conductive arms. The receptacle housing separation pieces provide lateral stability to the conductive arms. The receptacle housing separation pieces also ensure that the conductive arms do not come into electrical contact with each other. The receptacle housing separation pieces are typically part of the receptacle housing. Alternatively, the receptacle housing separation pieces can be separate items.

[0047] The receptacle housing may have a maximum length of less than 15 mm, such as less than 12 mm, such as less than 10 mm, such as less than 8 mm, such as 7.55 mm.

[0048] The receptacle housing may have a maximum height of less than 7 mm, such as less than 6 mm, such as less than 5 mm, such as 4.00 mm.

[0049] The receptacle housing may have a maximum width of less than 9 mm, such as less than 8 mm, such as less than 7 mm, such as 6 mm, such as 5.30 mm.

[0050] Thus, the multi-pole receptacle may be a miniature multi-pole receptacle.

[0051] Further disclosed herein is a multipolar system including a multipolar plug and a multipolar receptacle, wherein a plurality of upper conductive electrodes of the multipolar plug can be configured to electrically contact a plurality of upper conductive arms of the multipolar receptacle when the multipolar plug and the multipolar receptacle are connected, and a plurality of lower conductive electrodes can be configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower conductive arms of the multipolar receptacle.

[0052] Various embodiments are described below with reference to the figures. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the figures. Therefore, the same elements will not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the figures are intended merely to facilitate the description of the embodiments. The figures are not intended to be an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or to be limiting with respect to the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, an illustrated embodiment need not have all aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or advantage described in connection with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and may be implemented in any other embodiment, even if not shown or explicitly described. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the multipolar plug. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a front view of the multipolar plug. [Figure 1C] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a multipolar plug. [Figure 1D] FIG. 2 is a top view of a multipolar plug. [Figure 1E] FIG. 2 is a side view of a multipolar plug. [Figure 2A] FIG. 10 is a top view of a connector plate in a multi-pole plug. [Figure 2B] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the connector plate. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a front view of a multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 3C]FIG. 10 is a rear end view of the multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 3D] FIG. 2 is a top cross-sectional view of a multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 3E] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 3F] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 4A] 1A-1E connected to the multipolar receptacle of FIGS. 3A-3F. FIG. [Figure 4B] 1A-1E connected to the multipolar receptacle of FIGS. 3A-3F. FIG. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an alternative multi-polar plug. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a top view of an alternative multi-polar plug. [Figure 5C] FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative multi-polar plug. [Figure 6] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional side view of a mating multipolar plug and receptacle system having the multipolar plug of FIGS. 5A-5C and the multipolar receptacle of FIGS. 3A-3F. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a further alternative multi-polar plug. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an alternative multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a multi-pole plug. [Figure 7B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a multi-pole receptacle. [Figure 7C] 7B. FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional side view of the multipolar plug of FIG. 7A connected to the multipolar receptacle of FIG. 7B. [Figure 7D] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view with outer housing components omitted. [Figure 7E] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view with outer housing components omitted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the embodiments may have different forms and should not be construed as limited to the description set forth herein. Accordingly, the embodiments will be described below simply by describing each aspect with reference to the figures. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Phrases such as "at least one" when preceding a list of elements modify the list of elements as a whole, and not individual elements of the list.

[0055] In the drawings, the thicknesses of various layers and regions are exaggerated for clarity and ease of illustration. When a layer, region, element, or plate is referred to as being "on" another layer, region, element, or plate, it can be directly "on" the other layer, region, element, or plate, or there can be intervening layers, regions, elements, or plates. Conversely, when a layer, region, element, or plate is referred to as being directly "on" another layer, region, element, or plate, there are no intervening layers, regions, elements, or plates. Furthermore, when a layer, region, element, or plate is referred to as being "beneath" another layer, region, element, or plate, it can be directly "beneath" the other layer, region, element, or plate, or there can be intervening layers, regions, elements, or plates. Conversely, when a layer, region, element, or plate is referred to as being directly "beneath" another layer, region, element, or plate, there are no intervening layers, regions, elements, or plates.

[0056] Spatially relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top," "below," "belower," "less," "above," and the like may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship between one element or component and another, as illustrated. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown. For example, if a device as illustrated were turned over, elements described as being "below" or "below" other elements would be oriented "above" or "above" other elements. Thus, the exemplary terms "lower" or "below" can encompass both a "lower" and an "upper" orientation, depending on the particular orientation of the figure. Similarly, if a device in one of the figures were turned over, elements described as being "below" or "below" other elements would be oriented "above" other elements. Thus, the exemplary terms "below" or "belower" can encompass both upward and downward orientations, and thus spatially relative terms can be interpreted differently depending on the orientation being described.

[0057] Throughout this specification, when an element is said to be "connected" to another element, the element may be "directly connected" to the other element or "electrically connected" to the other element via one or more intervening elements.

[0058] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural, including "at least one," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. "At least one" should not be construed as limiting "a" or "an." It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "including," as used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0059] In this specification, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used to describe various elements, but these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, without departing from the teachings herein, a "first element" discussed below can be referred to as a "second element" or a "third element," and "second element" and "third element" can be similarly referred to.

[0060] As used herein, "about" or "approximately" means within an acceptable range of deviation for a particular value, inclusive of the stated value, and determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account the measurement in question and the error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity. For example, "about" can mean within one or more standard deviations or within ±30%, 50%, 10%, 5% of the stated value.

[0061] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the meaning of those terms in the context of the relevant technology, and it will be further understood that unless explicitly defined herein, they will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0062] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to cross-sectional views, which are schematic illustrations of idealized examples. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification. Therefore, variations from the shapes of the illustrations, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are to be expected. Therefore, the examples described herein should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein, which may include, for example, deviations in shape due to manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat may have undulating and / or non-linear features. Furthermore, illustrated shape angles may be rounded. Therefore, the illustrated regions are schematic, and the shapes are not intended to represent the exact shapes of the regions and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. To specifically illustrate the exemplary examples of the present disclosure, some components not relevant to the description may not be provided.

[0063] 1A-1E show the multi-pole plug in various views, with FIG. 1A being an exploded view, FIG. 1B being a front view, FIG. 1C being a cross-sectional side view, FIG. 1D being a top view, and FIG. 1E being a side view. Plug housing 5 includes a front end opening 12 and a rear end opening 14. Plug 1 also includes a plug housing 5 having a plug housing front portion 15 and a plug housing rear end portion 10. Reference to the front end refers to the end of the plug that engages with the receptacle. Reference to the rear end refers to the end away from the front end. Plug housing front portion 15 is configured to be positioned within the receptacle housing when multi-pole plug 1 and multi-pole receptacle 100 are connected. Plug housing front portion 15 includes a bottom plug housing front portion 16 that extends below front end opening 12 and a top plug housing front portion 18 that extends above front end opening 12. This can be seen in FIG. 1B. Bottom plug housing front piece 16 has a peripheral bottom plug housing curvature 17, which is marked in FIG. 1B. Similarly, top plug housing front piece 18 has a peripheral top plug housing curvature 19. The two curvatures are different, thereby giving plug housing front piece 15 an asymmetrical circumference. The asymmetry ensures that plug 1 cannot be inserted if it is rotated 180 degrees compared to its correct orientation. Additionally, bottom front piece 16 is thicker, i.e., has a greater height than top front piece 18. This enhances the asymmetry of plug 1.

[0064] The maximum dimensions of the plug housing 5 are marked in Figures 1C and 1D. Maximum refers to the maximum length (L), height (H), and width (W) of the plug housing. A typical maximum plug housing height (HHmax) is less than 6 mm, e.g., less than 5 mm, e.g., less than 4 mm, e.g., 3.80 mm. A typical maximum plug housing width (HWmax) is less than 7.0 mm, e.g., less than 6.0 mm, e.g., less than 5.0 mm, e.g., 4.9 mm. A typical maximum plug housing length (HLmax) is less than 12 mm, e.g., less than 10 mm, e.g., less than 8 mm, e.g., 6 mm.

[0065] A cable strain relief 50 passes through the rear end opening 14 of the plug housing 5. The cable strain relief 50 includes a through relief opening 52. The through relief opening 52 is seen, for example, in FIG. 1C. A cable 60 extends through the through relief opening 52. The cable strain relief 50 provides stability to the cable 60. The cable 60 forms an electrical connection with the conductive electrodes 20, 24 of the plug 1.

[0066] The plug plate 30 extends through the front-end opening 12 of the plug housing 5. The plug plate is shown in top and bottom enlarged views in FIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively. Top and top refer to the sides / portions pointing upward as shown, and bottom and bottom refer to the sides / portions pointing downward as shown. The plug plate 30 supports several conductive electrodes 20, 24 configured to electrically connect with corresponding receptacle components 120, 124. Typically, the electrodes 20, 24 are printed on the surface of the plug plate 30. The plug plate is substantially flat. The plug plate includes a non-conductive top layer 36 supporting a plurality of upper conductive electrodes 20. The plug plate further includes a non-conductive bottom layer 38 supporting a plurality of lower conductive electrodes 24. Thus, typically, there are conductive electrodes on both major surfaces of the plug plate 30. Because the plug housing 5 is asymmetric, the number of upper conductive electrodes 20 need not be the same as the number of lower conductive electrodes 24. Similarly, the electrical connection and purpose of the upper conductive electrode 20 need not be the same as the electrical connection and purpose of the lower conductive electrode 24. This allows for the individual use of each conductive electrode.

[0067] The maximum dimensions of the plug plate 30 are marked in FIGS. 1C and 2B. Maximum refers to the maximum length (L), height (H), and width (W) of the plug plate 30. The maximum plug plate length (PLmax) extends from the front end 40 of the plug plate 30 to the rear end of the plug plate 30. The maximum plug plate length (PLmax) is generally less than 10.0 mm, e.g., less than 8.0 mm, e.g., less than 6.0 mm, e.g., less than 5.0 mm. The maximum plug plate width (PWmax) extends from the first side 46 of the plug plate 30 to the opposing second side 48 of the plug plate 30. The maximum plug housing width (HWmax) is generally less than 7.0 mm, e.g., less than 6.0 mm, e.g., less than 5.0 mm, e.g., 4.9 mm. The maximum plug plate height (PHmax) extends between the top layer 36 and the bottom layer 38. The maximum plug plate height (PHmax) is typically less than 2.0 mm, such as less than 1.5 mm, such as less than 1.0 mm, such as less than 0.5 mm, such as less than 0.4 mm.

[0068] 2A and 2B, plug plate 30 further includes a side recess 49. The width of plug plate 30 at side recess 49, referred to as the recess plug plate width (PWrecess), is less than the maximum plug plate width (PWmax). Side recess 49 is configured to be engaged by a receptacle spring within multipolar receptacle 100, thereby securing multipolar plug 1 within multipolar receptacle 100. Thus, plug plate 30 has a securing function in addition to supporting conductive electrodes 20, 24.

[0069] The number of upper and lower conductive electrodes 20, 24 are shown as four each, but the number may be more or less than this and may vary depending on which side the poles are on.

[0070] The plug plate 30 further includes a center layer 37 positioned between the top layer 36 and the bottom layer 38. The center layer 37 is marked in FIG. 1B. The center layer 37 is a reinforcing layer that provides stability and strength to the plug plate 30. The reinforcing layer 37 may be a metal reinforcing layer. The inclusion of the reinforcing layer 37 in the plug plate 30 in a sandwich-type structure provides additional strength to the plug plate 30 without affecting the conductive components because the reinforcing layer 37 is positioned between the two non-conductive materials that make up the top layer 36 and bottom layer 38 of the plug plate 30.

[0071] The front end opening 12 of the plug housing 5 tapers inward, as shown in Figure 1C (see close-up in the left corner), to form a funnel-plug plate connection 8 that extends rearward in a funnel-like shape within the front end opening 12. During assembly of the plug 1, the inward funnel shape improves material control at the joint between the plug housing front end opening 12 and the plug plate 30.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 1E, the plug plate 30 is positioned above the plug housing front portion 15 of the plug housing 5 due to the asymmetrical position of the front end opening 12 .

[0073] 3A-3F show a multipolar receptacle 100. The multipolar receptacle 100 is configured to electrically contact components within the corresponding multipolar plug 1 when the multipolar plug 1 and the multipolar receptacle 100 are connected, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1E. The multipolar receptacle 100 includes a receptacle housing 105. The receptacle housing 105 has a front end opening 112 and a rear end opening 114. The receptacle housing 105 has a receptacle housing front portion 115 and a receptacle housing rear end portion 110. During assembly of the plug 1 and the receptacle 100, the plug housing front portion 115 is positioned within the receptacle housing front portion 115. 3B-3E, receptacle housing front 115 includes bottom receptacle housing front 116 and top plug housing front 118. Receptacle housing front 115 also includes an inner circumferential surface having top receptacle housing curved portion 119 and bottom receptacle housing curved portion 117. By mirroring the shape of plug housing front 15, top receptacle housing curved portion 119 and bottom receptacle housing curved portion 117 are different. Thus, the inner circumferential surface of receptacle housing front 15 asymmetrically aligns with the inner circumferential surface of plug housing front 15.

[0074] The interior surface of the receptacle housing front 115 may also be divided into an interior lower wall 107 and an interior upper wall 109 as shown in FIG. 3E.

[0075] The receptacle 100 further includes several conductive arms 120, 124 arranged in two groups: a plurality of upper conductive arms 120 and a plurality of lower conductive arms 124. The conductive arms 120, 124 are configured to electrically contact the conductive electrodes 20, 24 in the multi-polar plug 1 when the plug 1 and receptacle 100 are connected. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3E , the conductive arms 120, 124 extend forward in two approximately straight sections, with a section in between where the conductive arms 120, 124 bend toward each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the straight section. The bent structure of the conductive arms 120, 124 is supported by a receptacle insulating plate 140. The receptacle insulating plate 140 is positioned within the rear end opening 114 of the receptacle housing 105. Receptacle insulator plate 140 includes an upper plate opening 142 through which upper conductive arm 120 extends and a lower plate opening 144 through which lower conductive arm 124 extends. A rear end face 141 of receptacle insulator plate 140, through which rear ends 121, 125 of conductive arms 120, 124 extend, can be seen in Figure 3C.

[0076] The receptacle insulator plate 140 includes several upper plate support surfaces 146. The rear end 121 of each upper conductive arm 120 is disposed on one of the upper plate support surfaces 146, as shown in FIG. 3E. The interior of the receptacle housing 105 is located above the conductive arms 120. As a result, the rear end 121 of each upper conductive arm 120 is secured between one of the upper plate support surfaces 146 and the receptacle housing 105. Similarly, the receptacle insulator plate 140 includes several lower plate support surfaces 148. The rear end 125 of each lower conductive arm 124 is disposed on one of the lower plate support surfaces 148, as also shown in FIG. 3E. The interior of the receptacle housing 105 is located below the conductive arms 124. As a result, the rear end 125 of each lower conductive arm 124 is secured between one of the lower plate support surfaces 148 and the receptacle housing 105.

[0077] Between the front ends 122, 126 and the rear ends 121, 125 of the conductive arms 120, 124 are central portions 123, 127, which are bent relative to the two linear portions extending along the longitudinal direction of the conductive arms 120, 124. The central portions 123, 127 are also supported by plate support surfaces 146, 148 and partially supported by the interior of the receptacle housing 105. The front ends 122, 126 of the conductive arms 120, 124 are not supported by the plate support surfaces 146, 148. Therefore, the front end 122 of the upper conductive arm 120 can be bent away from the front end 126 of the lower conductive arm 124, thereby forming an interference fit between the upper and lower conductive arms 120, 124. This can be seen in FIG. 4B. Therefore, when connecting the multipolar plug 1 and the multipolar receptacle 100, when the plug plate 30 of the multipolar plug 1 is inserted between the upper conductive arm 120 and the lower conductive arm 124, the front end 122 of each upper conductive arm 120 and the front end 126 of each lower conductive arm 124 can bend away from each other.

[0078] Several receptacle housing isolation pieces 106, 108 are also provided between the conductive arms 120, 124. The bottom receptacle housing isolation piece 106 separates each of the lower conductive arms 124. The top receptacle housing isolation piece 108 separates each of the upper conductive arms 120. The receptacle housing isolation pieces 106, 108 provide lateral stability to the conductive arms 120, 124. The receptacle housing isolation pieces 106, 108 also ensure that the conductive arms 120, 124 do not come into electrical contact with each other. The receptacle housing isolation pieces 106, 108 are typically part of the receptacle housing 105. Alternatively, the receptacle housing isolation pieces 106, 108 can be separate items. The receptacle housing isolation pieces 106, 108 are most clearly seen in Figures 3B and 3F.

[0079] The multi-pole receptacle 100 further includes a spring 130. The spring 130 is secured within a spring recess 149 of the receptacle insulating plate 140. The spring 130 extends toward the front end opening 112 of the receptacle housing 105. The spring 130 is configured to secure the multi-pole plug 1 within the multi-pole receptacle 100. The spring 130 has two inwardly bent portions 132 that engage with the side recesses 49 of the plug plate 30. This secures the plug 1 within the receptacle 100, as shown in FIG. 4A .

[0080] The asymmetry between the plug housing front 15 and the corresponding receptacle housing front 115 ensures that the plug plate 30 and the conductive arms 120, 124 do not come into contact with each other unless the plug 1 is properly positioned within the receptacle 100. Thus, the upper conductive arm 120 is positioned closer to the inner upper wall 109 at the front 115 of the receptacle housing 105 than the lower conductive arm 124 is positioned closer to the inner lower wall 107 at the front 115 of the receptacle housing 105.

[0081] The receptacle housing 105 typically has a maximum length (RHLmax) of, for example, less than 15 mm, for example, less than 12 mm, for example, less than 10 mm, for example, less than 8 mm, for example, 7.55 mm. The receptacle housing 105 typically has a maximum height (RHHmax) of, for example, less than 7 mm, for example, less than 6 mm, for example, less than 5 mm, for example, 4.00 mm. The receptacle housing 105 typically has a maximum width (RHWmax) of, for example, less than 9 mm, for example, less than 8 mm, for example, less than 7 mm, for example, less than 6 mm, for example, 5.30 mm. Dimensions are shown in Figures 3A and 3D-3E.

[0082] Figures 4A and 4B show the multi-polar plug 1 of Figures 1A-1E and the receptacle 100 of Figures 3A-3F connected together. The spring 130 securing the plug 1 within the receptacle 100 is most clearly seen in Figure 4A. The electrical contact between the conductive electrodes 20, 24 and the conductive arms 120, 124 is most clearly seen in Figure 4B.

[0083] 5A-5C show an alternative embodiment of a multipolar plug 1'. The only difference compared to FIGS. 1A-1E is the inclusion of an O-ring 3. The O-ring 3 is positioned between the plug housing rear end 10 and the plug housing front end 15, as shown most clearly in FIG. 5B. The O-ring 3 ensures an interference fit between the multipolar plug 1' and the multipolar receptacle 100 when the two parts are connected as shown in FIG.

[0084] FIG. 7A shows an alternative embodiment of a multi-pole plug 1 ″. Compared to FIGS. 5A-5C, the central layer 37 of the plug plate 30 extends further rearward and has two contact tabs 44 .

[0085] In another example shown, cable 60 includes a plurality of wires 64, 66 positioned within the cable (see FIGS. 7D and 7E). Wires 64, 66 are configured to connect to a plurality of upper conductive electrodes 20 (see FIG. 7E) and a plurality of lower conductive electrodes 24 (see FIG. 7D), thereby forming an electrical connection. In the example shown in FIG. 7A, cable 60 further includes a conductive outer shielding layer 62 that forms an electrical shield from wires 64, 66. Conductive outer shielding layer 62 is connected to conductive center layer 37 of plug plate 30 at connection tab 44, thereby forming an electrical connection.

[0086] FIG. 7B illustrates an alternative example of a multi-pole receptacle 100′. In comparison to FIGS. 3A-3F, a receptacle cable 150 is shown. The receptacle cable 150 includes a plurality of receptacle wires 154, 156 configured to connect to a plurality of upper conductive arms 120 (see FIG. 7E) and a plurality of lower conductive arms 124 (see FIG. 7D) to form electrical connections (see FIGS. 7C-7E). The spring 130 further includes a cable connecting the spring elements 134, 136, which connect to a spring conductive shield layer 158. The spring conductive shield layer 158 shields the plurality of receptacle wires 154, 156 positioned within the receptacle cable 150.

[0087] Figure 7C shows the multi-pole plug of Figure 7A connected to the multi-pole receptacle of Figure 7B in a cross-sectional side view (Figure 7C). A top perspective view with the outer housing components omitted is shown in Figure 7D, and a bottom perspective view with the outer housing components omitted is shown in Figure 7E. The connections of multiple wires 64, 66 to the upper and lower conductive electrodes 20, 24 on the plug plate 30 can be seen in Figures 7C-7E. The connections of the conductive outer shield layer 62 on the plug plate 60 to the central layer 37 in the plug plate 30 can be seen in Figures 7D and 7E.

[0088] Similarly, the connections between receptacle wires 154, 156 and upper and lower conductive arms 120, 124 are seen in Figures 7C-7E, and the connections between spring conductive shield layer 158 and rear ends 134, 136 of spring 130 are seen in Figures 7D and 7E.

[0089] As an alternative to the receptacle cable 150, a printed circuit board may be used that includes a plurality of upper conductive arms 120, a plurality of lower conductive arms 124, and a plurality of connection points configured to connect to the springs 130, thereby forming electrical connections. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1, 1', 1" multi-pole plug 3 O-rings 5 Plug housing 8 Funnel plug plate connection at the front end opening of the plug housing 10 Plug housing rear end 12 Front end opening of plug housing 14 Rear end opening of plug housing 15 Plug housing front 16 Bottom of the front of the plug housing Front of the plug housing 17 Outer bottom plug housing curved section 18 Top of the front of the plug housing Front of the plug housing 19 Outer periphery top plug housing curved part 20 Upper conductive electrode 24 Lower conductive electrode 30 Plug Plate 32 Front end of plug plate 34 Rear end of plug plate 36 Top layer of plug plate 37 Central layer 38 Bottom layer of plug plate 40 Front end of plug plate 42 Rear end of plug plate 44 Center Layer Connection Tab 46 First side of plug plate 48 Second side of plug plate 49 Side recess 50 Cable Strain Relief 52 Cable strain relief opening 60 Cable 62 Conductive outer shield layer 64 Inner wire connecting to lower conductive electrode 66 Inner wire connecting to upper conductive electrode 100, 100' Multi-pole Receptacle 105 Receptacle Housing 106 Bottom receptacle housing separation part 107 Inner lower wall of receptacle housing 108 Top receptacle housing separation part 109 Inner upper wall of receptacle housing 110 Rear end of receptacle housing 112 Front end opening of receptacle housing 114 Rear end opening of receptacle housing 115 Receptacle housing front 116 Bottom of the front of the receptacle housing Front of the receptacle housing 117 Bottom perimeter receptacle housing curved portion 118 Top of the front of the receptacle housing Front of the receptacle housing 119 Top peripheral receptacle housing curved portion 120 Upper conductive arm 121 Rear end of upper conductive arm 122 Front end of upper conductive arm 123 Center of upper conductive arm 124 Lower conductive arm 125 Rear end of lower conductive arm 126 Front end of lower conductive arm 127 Center of upper conductive arm 130 Spring 132 Inward bend 134 Lower cable connection spring component that connects to spring conductive shield layer 136 Upper cable connection spring part that connects with spring conductive shield layer 140 Receptacle insulating plate 141 Rear end face of receptacle insulating plate 142 Receptacle insulator top plate opening 144 Lower plate opening of receptacle insulator 146 Upper plate support surface of receptacle insulating plate 148 Lower plate support surface of receptacle insulator 149 Receptacle insulator spring recess 150 receptacle cable 154 Receptacle wire connecting to lower conductive arm 156 Receptacle wire connecting to upper conductive arm 158 Spring conductive shield layer PLmax Maximum plug plate length PHmax Maximum plug plate height PWmax Maximum plug plate width PWrecess Recess plug plate width HLmax Maximum plug housing length HHmax Maximum plug housing height HWmax Maximum plug housing width HPLmax Maximum combined plug housing and plug plate length RHLmax Maximum receptacle housing length RHHmax Maximum receptacle housing height RHWmax Maximum receptacle housing width

Claims

1. A multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is a non-conductive plug housing (5) having a front end opening (12) and a rear end opening (14); a cable strain relief (50) extending through the rear end opening (14) of the plug housing (5), the cable strain relief (50) including a through relief opening (52) configured to have a cable (60) extend therethrough; a plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper receptacle conductive arms (120) of the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower receptacle conductive arms (124) of said multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plug plate (30) extending through the front end opening (12) of the plug housing (5); wherein the plug plate (30) is substantially flat; a non-conductive top layer (36) supporting said plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20); a non-conductive bottom layer (38) supporting said plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24); a maximum plug plate length (PLmax) extending from a forward end (40) of the plug plate (30) to an aft end (42) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate width (PWmax) extending from a first side (46) of the plug plate (30) to an opposing second side (48) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate height (PHmax) extending between the top layer (36) and the bottom layer (38); a conductive center layer (37) positioned between said top layer (36) and said bottom layer (38); Equipped with The cable (60) extends through the through relief opening (52) of the cable strain relief (50), and the cable (60) a plurality of wires (64, 66) connected to the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) and the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24), thereby configured to form electrical connections; at least one conductive outer shield layer (62) forming an electrical shield from the plurality of wires (64, 66), the at least one conductive outer shield layer (62) being connected to the conductive central layer (37) of the plug plate (30), thereby forming an electrical connection; Equipped with the upper and lower conductive electrodes (20, 24) are configured to electrically contact a plurality of conductive arms (120, 124) in the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is connected to the multipolar receptacle (100, 100'); The conductive central layer (37) of the plug plate (30) is configured to electrically contact a conductive spring (130) in the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is connected to the multipolar receptacle (100, 100').

2. A multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is a non-conductive plug housing (5) having a front end opening (12) and a rear end opening (14); a cable strain relief (50) extending through the rear end opening (14) of the plug housing (5), the cable strain relief (50) including a through relief opening (52) configured to have a cable (60) extend therethrough; a plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper receptacle conductive arms (120) of the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower receptacle conductive arms (124) of said multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plug plate (30) extending through the front end opening (12) of the plug housing (5); wherein the plug plate (30) is substantially flat; a non-conductive top layer (36) supporting said plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20); a non-conductive bottom layer (38) supporting said plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24); a maximum plug plate length (PLmax) extending from a forward end (40) of the plug plate (30) to an aft end (42) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate width (PWmax) extending from a first side (46) of the plug plate (30) to an opposing second side (48) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate height (PHmax) extending between the top layer (36) and the bottom layer (38); Equipped with The plug plate (30) has a recessed plug plate width (PWrecess) that is smaller than the maximum plug plate width (PWmax), and further comprises a side recessed portion (49) configured to be engaged by a receptacle spring in the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'), thereby securing the multi-pole plug (1, 1', 1") within the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100').

3. A multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is a non-conductive plug housing (5) having a front end opening (12) and a rear end opening (14); a cable strain relief (50) extending through the rear end opening (14) of the plug housing (5), the cable strain relief (50) including a through relief opening (52) configured to have a cable (60) extend therethrough; a plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper receptacle conductive arms (120) of the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower receptacle conductive arms (124) of said multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plug plate (30) extending through the front end opening (12) of the plug housing (5); wherein the plug plate (30) is substantially flat; a non-conductive top layer (36) supporting said plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20); a non-conductive bottom layer (38) supporting said plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24); a maximum plug plate length (PLmax) extending from a forward end (40) of the plug plate (30) to an aft end (42) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate width (PWmax) extending from a first side (46) of the plug plate (30) to an opposing second side (48) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate height (PHmax) extending between the top layer (36) and the bottom layer (38); Equipped with The plug housing (5) includes a plug housing front portion (15) configured to be positioned within a receptacle housing when the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the plug plate (30) extends through the plug housing front portion (15) to divide the plug housing front portion (15) into a bottom plug housing front portion (16) extending below the plug plate (30) and a top plug housing front portion (18) extending above the plug plate (30); A multi-position plug (1, 1', 1") wherein the bottom plug housing front piece (16) has a peripheral bottom plug housing curvature (17) that is different from a peripheral top plug housing curvature (19) of the top plug housing front piece (18), thereby providing the plug housing front (15) with an asymmetrical outer periphery.

4. A multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is a non-conductive plug housing (5) having a front end opening (12) and a rear end opening (14); a cable strain relief (50) extending through the rear end opening (14) of the plug housing (5), the cable strain relief (50) including a through relief opening (52) configured to have a cable (60) extend therethrough; a plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper receptacle conductive arms (120) of the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) configured to electrically contact a plurality of lower receptacle conductive arms (124) of said multi-pole receptacle (100, 100'); a plug plate (30) extending through the front end opening (12) of the plug housing (5); wherein the plug plate (30) is substantially flat; a non-conductive top layer (36) supporting said plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20); a non-conductive bottom layer (38) supporting said plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24); a maximum plug plate length (PLmax) extending from a forward end (40) of the plug plate (30) to an aft end (42) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate width (PWmax) extending from a first side (46) of the plug plate (30) to an opposing second side (48) of the plug plate (30); a maximum plug plate height (PHmax) extending between the top layer (36) and the bottom layer (38); Equipped with The front end opening (12) of the plug housing (5) is tapered inward to form a funnel plug plate connection portion (8), which extends rearward in a funnel-like shape within the front end opening (12).

5. 5. The multi-polar plug of claim 1, 2, or 4, wherein the plug housing includes a plug housing front portion configured to be positioned within a receptacle housing when the multi-polar plug and the multi-polar receptacle are connected, the plug plate extending through the plug housing front portion dividing the plug housing front portion into a bottom plug housing front portion extending below the plug plate and a top plug housing front portion extending above the plug plate, the bottom plug housing front portion having a peripheral bottom plug housing curvature that is different from a peripheral top plug housing curvature of the top plug housing front portion, thereby providing the plug housing front portion with an asymmetrical outer periphery.

6. 6. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 and 3 to 5, wherein the plug plate (30) further comprises a side recess (49), the side recess (49) having a recess plug plate width (PWrecess) that is smaller than the maximum plug plate width (PWmax), and configured to be engaged by a receptacle spring in the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100'), thereby securing the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") in the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100').

7. 7. The multi-polar plug (1, 1′, 1″) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 or 6, wherein the front end opening (12) of the plug housing (5) is tapered inward to form a funnel plug plate connection portion (8), and the funnel plug plate connection portion (8) extends rearward in a funnel-like shape within the front end opening (12).

8. A multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 5 to 7 dependent on claim 3 or claim 5, wherein the bottom front part (16) is thicker than the top front part (18).

9. 9. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to claim 2, wherein the plug plate (30) further comprises a center layer (37) positioned between the top layer (36) and the bottom layer (38).

10. 10. The multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") of claim 9, wherein the central layer (37) is a conductive layer.

11. 11. The multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 2 to 10, further comprising a cable (60) including a plurality of wires (64, 66) configured to be connected to the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) and the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24).

12. The cable (60) further comprises at least one conductive outer shield layer (62) forming an electrical shield from the plurality of wires (64, 66), the at least one conductive outer shield layer (62) being connected to the conductive central layer (37) of the plug plate (30), thereby forming an electrical connection; the upper and lower conductive electrodes (20, 24) are configured to electrically contact a plurality of conductive arms (120, 124) in the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") is connected to the multipolar receptacle (100, 100'); A multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to claim 11 dependent on claim 10, wherein the conductive central layer (37) of the plug plate (30) is configured to electrically contact a conductive spring (130) within the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100') when the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") is connected to the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100').

13. 13. The multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") according to claim 1 and any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the central layer (37) is a reinforcing layer that provides stability to the plug plate (30).

14. 14. A multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 and 10 to 13, wherein the reinforcing layer (37) is a metal reinforcing layer.

15. 15. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the plug housing (5) comprises a plug housing rear end (10) and a plug housing front portion (15), and the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") further comprises an O-ring (3) positioned between the plug housing rear end (10) and the plug housing front portion (15) to provide an interference fit between the plug housing rear end (10) and the plug housing front portion (15) positioned inside the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100').

16. 16. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the plug housing (5) and the plug plate (30) have a combined length (HPLmax) of less than 15.0 mm, for example, less than 12.0 mm, for example, less than 10.0 mm, for example, less than 9.0 mm, for example, 8.35 mm.

17. 17. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the plug housing (5) has a maximum plug housing height (HHmax) of less than 6 mm, for example less than 5 mm, for example less than 4 mm, for example 3.80 mm.

18. 18. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the plug housing (5) has a maximum plug housing width (HWmax) of less than 7.0 mm, for example, less than 6.0 mm, for example, less than 5.0 mm, for example, 4.9 mm.

19. 19. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the maximum plug housing length (PLmax) is less than 10.0 mm, such as less than 8.0 mm, such as less than 6.0 mm, such as less than 5.0 mm.

20. 20. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the maximum plug plate width (PWmax) is less than 7.0 mm, for example, less than 6.0 mm, for example, less than 5.0 mm, for example, less than 4.0 mm, for example, less than 3.0 mm.

21. 21. The multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the maximum plug plate height (PHmax) is less than 2.0 mm, for example, less than 1.5 mm, for example, less than 1.0 mm, for example, less than 0.5 mm, for example, less than 0.4 mm.

22. 22. The multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the number of the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) is at least four, and the number of the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) is at least four.

23. A multipolar receptacle (100, 100') configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") when the multipolar plug and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') comprises: a receptacle housing (105) having a front end opening (112) and a rear end opening (114); a plurality of upper conductive arms (120) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1"); a plurality of lower conductive arms (124) configured to electrically contact the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1"); a receptacle insulator plate (140) positioned within the rear end opening (114) of the receptacle housing (105), the receptacle insulator plate (140) comprising: at least one upper plate opening (142) through which said upper conductive arm (120) extends; at least one lower plate opening (144) through which said lower conductive arm (124) extends; a receptacle insulator plate (140) comprising: a conductive spring (130) secured in a spring recess (149) of the receptacle insulating plate (140); A receptacle cable (150) or a printed circuit board, The receptacle cable (150) a plurality of receptacle wires (154, 156) configured to connect to the plurality of upper conductive arms (120) and the plurality of lower conductive arms (124) and thereby form an electrical connection; at least one spring conductive shield layer (158) shielded from the plurality of receptacle wires (154, 156) and connected to the spring (130), thereby forming an electrical connection; a receptacle cable (150) comprising: Equipped with The printed circuit board is a multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') having a plurality of connection points configured to connect to the plurality of upper conductive arms (120), the plurality of lower conductive arms (124), and the spring (130), thereby forming an electrical connection.

24. A multipolar receptacle (100, 100') configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") when the multipolar plug and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') comprises: a receptacle housing (105) having a front end opening (112) and a rear end opening (114); a plurality of upper conductive arms (120) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1"); a plurality of lower conductive arms (124) configured to electrically contact the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1"); a receptacle insulator plate (140) positioned within the rear end opening (114) of the receptacle housing (105), the receptacle insulator plate (140) comprising: at least one upper plate opening (142) through which said upper conductive arm (120) extends; at least one lower plate opening (144) through which said lower conductive arm (124) extends; a receptacle insulator plate (140) comprising: Equipped with The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') further comprises a spring (130) secured within a spring recess (149) of the receptacle insulating plate (140), the spring (130) extending toward the front end opening (112) of the receptacle housing (105), the spring (130) configured to secure the multi-pole plug (1, 1', 1") within the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100').

25. 25. The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') of claim 24, wherein the spring (130) is electrically conductive.

26. 26. The multi-polar receptacle (100, 100') according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the receptacle housing (105) comprises a receptacle housing front (115) within which a plug housing front (15) is positioned when the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and wherein the receptacle housing front (115) has an inner circumferential surface with a top receptacle housing curvature that is different from a bottom receptacle housing curvature (117), thereby providing the plug housing front (15) with an asymmetric inner periphery.

27. A multipolar receptacle (100, 100') configured to electrically contact a component in a corresponding multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") when the multipolar plug and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') comprises: a receptacle housing (105) having a front end opening (112) and a rear end opening (114); a plurality of upper conductive arms (120) configured to electrically contact the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1"); a plurality of lower conductive arms (124) configured to electrically contact the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1"); a receptacle insulator plate (140) positioned within the rear end opening (114) of the receptacle housing (105), the receptacle insulator plate (140) comprising: at least one upper plate opening (142) through which said upper conductive arm (120) extends; at least one lower plate opening (144) through which said lower conductive arm (124) extends; a receptacle insulator plate (140) comprising: Equipped with The receptacle housing (105) includes a receptacle housing front portion (115), and when the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100') are connected, a plug housing front portion (15) is positioned inside the receptacle housing front portion (115), and the receptacle housing front portion (115) has an inner circumferential surface with a top receptacle housing curved portion (119) that is different from a bottom receptacle housing curved portion (117), thereby providing the plug housing front portion (15) with an asymmetric inner periphery.

28. 28. The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') of claim 27, further comprising a spring (130) secured within a spring recess (149) of the receptacle insulator plate (140).

29. 29. The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') of claim 23 or 28, wherein the spring (130) extends toward the front end opening (112) of the receptacle housing (105), and the spring (130) is configured to secure the multi-pole plug (1, 1', 1") within the multi-pole receptacle (100, 100').

30. The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') of any one of claims 24 to 29, further comprising a printed circuit board having a plurality of connection points configured to connect to the plurality of upper conductive arms (120), the plurality of lower conductive arms (124), and the spring (130), thereby forming an electrical connection.

31. 30. The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') of any one of claims 24 to 29, further comprising a receptacle cable (150) comprising a plurality of receptacle wires (154, 156) configured to be connected to the plurality of upper conductive arms (120) and the plurality of lower conductive arms (124), thereby forming an electrical connection.

32. 32. The multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') of claim 31, wherein the receptacle cable (150) further comprises at least one spring conductive shield layer (158) shielded from the plurality of receptacle wires (154, 156) and connected to the springs (130), thereby forming an electrical connection.

33. 33. A multi-pole receptacle (100, 100') according to any one of claims 23 to 32, wherein the upper conductive arm (120) is closer to an inner upper wall (109) of the receptacle housing (105) than the lower conductive arm (120) is to an inner lower wall (107).

34. The receptacle insulating plate (140) is at least one upper plate support surface (146), wherein a rear end (121) of each upper conductive arm (120) is secured between the at least one upper plate support surface (146) and the receptacle housing (105); at least one lower plate support surface (148), wherein a rear end (125) of each lower conductive arm (124) is secured between the at least one lower plate support surface (148) and the receptacle housing (105); Furthermore, 33. The multi-polar receptacle (100, 100') according to any one of claims 23 to 32, wherein when the plug plate (30) of the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") is inserted between the upper conductive arm (120) and the lower conductive arm (124), a front end (122) of each upper conductive arm (120) and a front end (126) of each lower conductive arm (124) can bend away from each other when connecting the multi-polar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multi-polar receptacle (100, 100').

35. 35. A multi-pole receptacle according to any one of claims 23 to 34, wherein the receptacle housing (105) has a maximum length of less than 15 mm, such as less than 12 mm, such as less than 10 mm, such as less than 8 mm, such as 7.55 mm.

36. 36. A multi-pole receptacle according to any one of claims 23 to 35, wherein the receptacle housing (105) has a maximum height of less than 7 mm, such as less than 6 mm, such as less than 5 mm, such as 4.00 mm.

37. 37. A multi-pole receptacle according to any one of claims 23 to 36, wherein the receptacle housing (105) has a maximum width of less than 9 mm, such as less than 8 mm, such as less than 7 mm, such as less than 6 mm, such as 5.30 mm.

38. 38. A multipolar system comprising: a multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") according to any one of claims 1 to 22; and a multipolar receptacle (100, 100') according to any one of claims 23 to 37, wherein the plurality of upper conductive electrodes (20) of the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") are configured to be in electrical contact with the plurality of upper conductive arms (120) of the multipolar receptacle (100, 100'), and the plurality of lower conductive electrodes (24) are configured to be in electrical contact with the plurality of lower conductive arms (124) of the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') when the multipolar plug (1, 1', 1") and the multipolar receptacle (100, 100') are connected.

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