Connector pins

Abstract

The electrical insulating element covers the elongated, flat body, particularly the parts that are especially critical for compliance with safety standards, and provides physical insulation adapted to prevent direct contact between a person's finger and the conductive elongated, flat body of the pin. [Solution] The present invention relates to a connector pin 10 comprising a conductive, elongated, flat body 12 and an electrical insulating element 14. At least one projection 52 extends from a flat base 50 of the front edge 48 of the elongated, flat body. The projection has a through opening 64. The electrical insulating element covers the front edge and the projection so as to fill the through opening. The main projection 62 may have at least one trapezoidal cross-section in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to connector pins, particularly connector pins having an elongated flat body, and connector elements comprising a housing and a connector pin.

Background Art

[0002] Electrical connector pins, particularly flat pins, and connector elements are often used to connect the electrical system of a vehicle to the vehicle's battery or accumulator. This applies particularly to electric or hybrid vehicles that need to transmit high current and / or high voltage via the connector and thus via the pins of the connector.

[0003] Flat pins have advantages over round pins, including the ability to be inserted in two different directions or used in right-angled (90°) or straight (180°) connectors. On the other hand, round pins require different models for each type of connector, increasing the complexity of component manufacturing.

[0004] Due to the involvement of high current and high voltage, the connector must comply with strict requirements of standards such as the IPXXB standard and / or the IPXXB+ standard. These standards require protecting the connector pins from accidental contact with a human finger or a similar object. These standards are part of the IP (Ingress Protection) classification that defines the level of protection of the device against foreign object intrusion and accidental contact. The IPXXB standard ensures protection of the contact elements from accidental contact with an object of a size similar to a human finger, e.g., a standard test finger with a diameter of 12 mm and a length of 80 mm. The IPXXB+ standard is an enhanced version of the IPXXB standard, providing additional protection particularly by increasing the stringency of the contact resistance test and by ensuring protection even under more stringent assembly or use conditions. This is particularly relevant in the automotive field where vibration, temperature changes, and other environmental factors can affect the strength of the connector pins and the connector.

[0005] Conventional technologies employ various solutions to prevent accidental contact with connector pins. For example, it is common to attach protective collars around the contacts to create an insulating barrier that forms a physical obstacle to prevent direct contact with human fingers.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2021257768(A1) describes the use of an insulating material attached to the mounting portion of a flat connector by forced interlock ("press-fit") for the purpose of covering specific portions of terminals to limit the risk of direct contact. Although this solution is based in essence on an interlock system, the insulating material may remain susceptible to undesirable movement in several directions, particularly under the influence of vibration. In addition, this assembly method leaves a risk of displacement or stepwise movement of the insulating material over time, which impairs the mechanical stability of the connector pins.

[0007] Therefore, to improve the safety and durability of connector pins, it is desirable to propose a more robust and reliable solution that can reduce the movement of electrical insulating material in all directions. It is advantageous that this solution must be easily adaptable to existing connector pins while complying with the requirements of protection standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] The objective of this invention is achieved by connector pins. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the connector pin comprises an elongated flat body along the insertion direction of the connector pin. The connector pin can be inserted into a mating connector in the insertion direction. The elongated flat body is conductive. The elongated flat body includes two contact surfaces facing each other. The contact surfaces are connected to each other along the insertion direction by side edges. The front edge of the elongated flat body connects the side edges. The front edge includes a flat base perpendicular to the insertion direction. A main projection extends from the flat base of the front edge along the insertion direction. The main projection includes at least one through-opening. The connector pin further comprises an electrical insulating element. The electrical insulating element covers the front edge and the main projection so as to fill the through-opening. The electrical insulating element covers at least partially the side edges.

[0010] Therefore, the arrangement of electrical insulation elements can meet the requirements of protection standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. The electrical insulation elements cover particularly critical parts of the elongated flat body, especially for compliance with safety standards, and ensure physical insulation adapted to prevent direct contact between human fingers and the conductive elongated flat body of the pins.

[0011] Furthermore, filling the through-holes with an electrical insulating element strengthens the grip between the electrical insulating element and the elongated, flat body. This improves the durability of the connector pins.

[0012] This arrangement also contributes to better mechanical strength of the connector pins, as it reduces the risk of movement or disengagement of electrical insulating elements.

[0013] The connector pin according to the first aspect of the present invention can be further improved by the following embodiments.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the main projection may have a wall that extends inclined along the insertion direction from a flat base at the front edge, and in particular inclined to converge in the insertion direction.

[0015] The inclined walls of the protruding portion provide a gripping surface that allows the electrical insulating element to adhere better to the metal surface of the elongated, flat body. The inclined walls can prevent the electrical insulating element from unintentionally detaching or falling off under the influence of mechanical force or vibration. Thanks to the inclined walls, stress can be better distributed between the elongated, flat metal body and the electrical insulating element, which is generally made of plastic, thus reducing the risk of plastic cracking or metal deformation. This helps to improve the durability of the connector pin.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element can be formed integrally. In other words, the electrical insulating element can be designed as a single component without assembling several parts.

[0017] This embodiment enhances structural integrity and eliminates potential joint or weak areas. This embodiment can reduce the risk of displacement or movement of electrical insulating elements. The resulting electrical insulating elements are more robust.

[0018] Electrical insulating elements can be made from electrical insulating materials, particularly polyamide 66 (PA66) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0019] According to one embodiment, an electrical insulating element can be overmolded onto an elongated, flat body.

[0020] Connector pins can be obtained by a manufacturing method that molds an electrical insulating material into an elongated, flat body. This manufacturing method differs from so-called "press-fit" assembly methods such as interlocks, particularly forced interlocks or press-fit interlocks. Overmolding provides a strong bond between the electrical insulating element and the elongated, flat body without requiring additional fasteners and / or assembly elements. Overmolding can completely cover critical parts of the elongated, flat body, especially those required to comply with safety standards, ensuring physical insulation adapted to prevent direct contact between human fingers and the conductive elongated, flat body of the pin. Overmolding also improves mechanical stability by preventing relative movement between the elongated, flat body and the electrical insulating element.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the maximum thickness of the main protrusion may be strictly less than the maximum thickness between the two contact surfaces, and the thicknesses are defined along a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0022] This difference in thickness creates a support surface on the flat base of the leading edge of the elongated, flat body, which is covered by the electrical insulating element. This configuration promotes better adhesion of the electrical insulating element to the elongated, flat body.

[0023] The maximum thickness between the two contact surfaces may be 5 millimeters or less, and in particular 2 millimeters or less.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element may be coplanar with each of the surfaces of the elongated flat body. In particular, the electrical insulating element may be coplanar with each of the contact surfaces of the elongated flat body. The electrical insulating element may be coplanar with each of the side edges of the elongated flat body that are not covered by the electrical insulating element.

[0025] With this configuration, the overall shape of the connector pin can be maintained, and the connector pin retains a generally rectangular shape. Geometric continuity between the electrical insulation element, the contact surface, and the remaining portion of the side wall is achieved, minimizing irregularities and facilitating the insertion and removal of the pin with respect to the mating plug or mating connector. Additionally, this configuration reduces the risk of snagging or misalignment without changing the outer dimensions of the connector pin. This also ensures improved compatibility with existing mating connectors and mating plugs.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the main protrusion can have at least one trapezoidal cross-section, particularly at least one isosceles trapezoidal cross-section, in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge. In other words, the main protrusion can have a double-tail shape. The double-tail shape provides a mechanical lock that prevents relative movement between the electrical insulation element and the elongated flat body, thereby strengthening the structural bond of the connector pin.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the main protrusion can be formed by a first protrusion and a second protrusion that are partially connected to each other by a connecting portion so as to define a through-opening.

[0028] The redundancy of the protrusions at the leading edge can strengthen the mechanical stability of the connector pin. The redundancy of the protrusions at the leading edge can also increase the support points and lock points for the conductive element. Thus, the distribution of mechanical stress throughout the structure can be improved. The connecting portion is adapted to leave sufficient space between the protrusions in order to define a through-opening.

[0029] In addition to the through-opening, at least one of the two projections, the first or second projection, may include a recess that can be covered by an electrical insulating element. Alternatively, or in combination, at least one of the two projections, the first or second projection, may include a through-orifice distinct from the through-opening, and the through-orifice may be filled with an electrical insulating element. Filling the recess and / or through-orifice with an electrical insulating element enhances the grip between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the first projection, or the second projection, or each of the two projections, may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge. In other words, each main projection may have a dovetail shape. The dovetail shape provides a mechanical lock that prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body, thereby strengthening the structural coupling of the connector pins.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the trapezoidal shape of each projection can be defined by an isosceles trapezoid in the cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge, and the isosceles trapezoid defines a short side parallel to the long side in the cross-sectional plane. The first projection and the second projection may be arranged in the cross-sectional plane such that their respective short sides are parallel to and opposite each other.

[0032] The arrangement of two isosceles trapezoidal projections facing each other on their short sides creates an effective mechanical lock, thus increasing resistance to unwanted movement. This arrangement promotes a uniform distribution of mechanical stress.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the connector pin may have at least one third projection extending at least partially from one of the side edges, the third projection including a through-opening. The electrical insulating element may at least partially cover the third projection to fill the through-opening.

[0034] This configuration improves the retention of the electrical insulating element along the side edge that is subjected to stress during insertion and removal of the connector pins from the mating plug. Furthermore, by filling the through-opening of the third projection with the electrical insulating element, a better grip is achieved between the electrical insulating element and one or more side edges of the elongated flat body. Thus, the adhesion between the electrical insulating element and the side edge of the elongated flat body is enhanced.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the connector pin may have a main projection on its front edge and at least a third projection on its side edge. In this embodiment, the main projection is not necessarily formed by a first projection and a second projection. The third projection can then be described as an additional projection or a side projection.

[0036] According to one embodiment, at least one third projection may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction. In other words, the third projection may have a dovetail shape. The dovetail shape provides a mechanical lock that prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body, thereby strengthening the structural coupling of the connector pin.

[0037] Therefore, this configuration improves the retention of electrical insulating elements along the side edges that are subjected to stress during insertion and removal of connector pins from the mating plug.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the first projection and the second projection can each be integrally connected to at least one third projection by a particularly chamfered corner.

[0039] This configuration improves the structural integrity of the elongated, flat body. The chamfered corners prevent the formation of sharp angles, which could weaken the structure by creating stress points or risk damaging electrical insulation elements.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the through-opening can have a rectangular cross-section defined in a plane parallel to the contact surface. Thus, the through-opening can include four inner walls. Each inner wall of the through-opening is in direct contact with an electrical insulating element. This promotes adhesion of the electrical insulating element. The rectangular opening can distribute mechanical stress more uniformly. The rectangular opening can be easily formed, especially using standard manufacturing methods.

[0041] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the connector pin may comprise an elongated flat body along the insertion direction of the connector pin, the elongated flat body may be conductive, the elongated flat body may include two contact surfaces facing each other, the contact surfaces may be connected to each other along the insertion direction by side edges, the front edge of the elongated flat body may connect the side edges, the front edge may include a flat base perpendicular to the insertion direction, a first projection may extend from the flat base of the front edge, the first projection may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge, and in particular an isosceles trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the front edge. The connector pin may further include an electrical insulating element. The electrical insulating element may cover the leading edge and the first projection. In particular, the electrical insulating element may cover the entire leading edge and the first projection. The electrical insulating element may cover at least partially the side edge.

[0042] Therefore, the arrangement of the electrical insulation elements can meet the requirements of protection standards such as IPXXB and / or IPXXB+. The electrical insulation elements cover the elongated flat body, especially the parts that are particularly important for compliance with safety standards, and ensure physical insulation adapted to prevent direct contact between human fingers and the conductive elongated flat body of the pins. The characteristics of the first projection, particularly its specific shape and position on the leading edge of the pin, can reduce the movement of the conductive elements relative to the elongated flat body, which contributes to improving the mechanical stability of the connector pin. In addition, the dovetail connection provided on the leading edge by this trapezoidal projection provides a more secure mechanical lock, restricting undesirable movement in several directions, namely in directions other than the insertion direction, especially under the influence of vibration. This enhances the retention between the conductive element and the elongated, flat body, and therefore reduces the risk of misalignment or disengagement of the connector.

[0043] The connector pin according to the second aspect of the present invention can be further improved by the following embodiments.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the second projection may extend from a flat base of the leading edge, and the second projection may have a trapezoidal shape in the cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge. The redundancy of the leading edge protrusion can enhance the mechanical stability of the connector pin. Increasing the support and locking points for the conductive element can improve the distribution of mechanical stress throughout the structure.

[0045] According to one embodiment, each of the protrusions may have an isosceles trapezoidal shape in the cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge, the isosceles trapezoid having a short side parallel to the long side in the cross-sectional plane, and the first and second protrusions may be arranged such that their respective short sides are parallel to and opposite each other in the cross-sectional plane. The arrangement of the two isosceles trapezoidal projections, facing each other at their short sides, can form an effective mechanical lock, thus increasing resistance to unwanted movement. This arrangement promotes uniform distribution of mechanical stress. Furthermore, this arrangement leaves sufficient space between and around the projections, allowing the electrical insulating element to make direct contact with the flat base at the leading edge, thereby promoting adhesion of the electrical insulating element.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the first projection and the second projection may be separate from each other in each cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge. This allows the electrical insulating element to benefit from a larger support surface that directly contacts the flat base at its leading edge. This improves adhesion between the electrical insulating element, which is typically made of plastic, and the elongated, flat metal body.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the first projection and the second projection can be joined together at their respective short sides in at least one cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge, particularly in each cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base of the leading edge. This allows for the formation of a more robust protruding structure, which helps improve the durability of the connector pins.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the first and second projections can be made of a single block, extending from a flat base at the front edge to the free end of the projection, and the block may be provided with an opening, particularly a through-opening, that extends in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. A structure formed from a single block with a through-opening provides high rigidity and better mechanical stability. This opening is filled with an electrical insulating element, providing better grip between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body.

[0049] The first projection, and in particular the first and second projections, may have a dovetail shape. The dovetail shape provides a mechanical lock that prevents relative movement between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body, thereby strengthening the structural coupling of the connector pins. According to one embodiment, the first projection, and more particularly the first and second projections, can extend from a flat base at the leading edge, such that their walls are inclined, and in particular, inclined to converge in the insertion direction. The inclined walls provide an additional gripping surface that allows the electrical insulating element to adhere better to the metal surface of the elongated, flat body. This prevents the electrical insulating element from unintentionally detaching or falling off under the influence of mechanical forces or vibrations. Thanks to the inclined walls, stress can be better distributed between the elongated, flat metal body and the electrical insulating element, which is generally made of plastic, thus reducing the risk of plastic cracking or metal deformation. This improves durability.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the third projection can extend at least partially from one or more side edges, and the third projection can have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction. This configuration improves the retention of electrical insulating elements along the side edges that are subjected to stress during insertion and removal of connector pins from the mating plug.

[0051] According to one embodiment, an opening, particularly a through-opening or notch, can be formed between the third projection and the side edge or the base of each side edge, and the opening can extend in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. By filling this opening with an electrical insulating element, a better grip is achieved between the electrical insulating element and one or more side edges of the elongated flat body. Thus, the adhesion between the electrical insulating element and the side edges of the elongated flat body is enhanced.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the first protrusion, and in particular each protrusion, can be formed to be recessed from the flat base of the front edge, and in particular recessed from the flat base of the front edge and the base of each side edge. This arrangement creates support surfaces on each edge of the elongated, flat body, thus allowing for better adhesion of the electrical insulating elements.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the first and second protrusions can be integrally connected to the third protrusions on each side edge, particularly by chamfered corners. This configuration improves the structural integrity of the elongated, flat body. The chamfered corners prevent the formation of sharp angles, which could weaken the structure by creating stress points or risk damaging electrical insulation elements.

[0054] According to one embodiment, an electrical insulating element can be formed from a single component. In other words, an electrical insulating element can be designed as a single component without assembling several parts. This embodiment enhances structural integrity and eliminates potential joint or weak areas. This embodiment can reduce the risk of displacement or movement of the electrical insulating element. The resulting electrical insulating element is more robust.

[0055] Electrical insulating elements can be made from electrical insulating materials, particularly polyamide 66 (PA66) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0056] According to one embodiment, an electrical insulating element can be overmolded onto an elongated, flat body. Connector pins can be obtained by a manufacturing method that forms an elongated, flat body from an electrical insulating material. This manufacturing method differs from so-called "press-fit" assembly methods such as interlocks, particularly forced interlocks or pressure interlocks. Overmolding provides a strong bond between the electrical insulating element and the elongated flat body without requiring additional fasteners and / or assembly elements. Overmolding can completely cover critical parts of the elongated flat body, particularly those necessary for compliance with safety standards, ensuring physical insulation configured to prevent direct contact between human fingers and the conductive elongated flat body of the pins. Overmolding also improves mechanical stability by preventing relative movement between the elongated flat body and the electrical insulating element.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the electrical insulating element may be coplanar with each of the surfaces of the elongated flat body. In particular, the electrical insulating element may be coplanar with each of the contact surfaces. The electrical insulating element may be coplanar with each of the side edges of the elongated flat body that are not covered by the electrical insulating element. This configuration maintains the overall shape of the connector pin, which retains a roughly rectangular shape. Geometric continuity is achieved between the electrical insulating element, the contact surface, and the rest of the sidewall, minimizing irregularities and facilitating insertion and removal of the pin from the mating plug. In addition, this configuration reduces the risk of snagging or misalignment while optimizing mechanical stability without changing the external dimensions of the connector pin. This also ensures improved compatibility with existing mating connectors and plugs.

[0058] The object of the present invention can also be achieved by a connector element. The connector element comprises a housing and a connector pin according to a first or second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the housing includes a base having an opening, and the connector pin is inserted into the opening in the base of the housing, in particular in the direction opposite to the direction of insertion of the pin into the mating connector or mating plug, so that the electrical insulating element of the connector pin extends to the base of the housing.

[0059] The connector pins are inserted into openings in the housing base, and the electrical insulating elements extend to the housing base, ensuring continuity of insulation between the pins and the housing. This configuration reduces the risk of accidental contact with the conductive portion of the connector pins.

[0060] One or more features of the connector pin according to the first embodiment or the connector pin according to the second embodiment can be integrated with or combined with the connector pin according to the second embodiment or the connector pin according to the first embodiment, respectively.

[0061] The accompanying drawings of the present invention are incorporated herein to illustrate embodiments of the invention and form an integral part of this specification. These drawings, together with their description, are helpful in illustrating the principles of the invention. The sole purpose of the drawings is to illustrate preferred and alternative examples of ways in which the invention can be embodied and used, and the invention should not be construed as limiting the invention to the only embodiments illustrated and described.

[0062] Therefore, the examples and variations described below can be considered individually or in any combination.

[0063] Other features and advantages will become apparent from a more precise description following various embodiments of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, similar reference numerals indicate similar elements. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0064] [Figure 1] This figure shows connector pins according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an exploded view of the connector pins. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a magnified view of the leading edge of the elongated, flat body. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a magnified view of the side edge of the elongated, flat main body. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the leading edge of the connector pin. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the first and second protrusions of the connector pin. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the third protrusion of the connector pin in Figure 1. [Figure 8] This figure shows a connector element equipped with the connector pins shown in Figure 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0065] Figure 1 shows a connector pin 10 according to one embodiment. The connector pin 10 extends in the direction diagrammed by the X, Y, and Z axes, which together define the Cartesian coordinate system (X, Y, Z).

[0066] The connector pin 10 comprises an elongated, flat body 12. The elongated, flat body 12 is elongated along the insertion direction 1 parallel to the Z-axis. The connector pin 10 is configured to connect to a mating plug (not shown) in the insertion direction 1. The elongated, flat body 12 is conductive. The elongated, flat body 12 is made of metal. In particular, the elongated, flat body 12 is made of a copper alloy.

[0067] The connector pin 10 further comprises an electrical insulation element 14. The electrical insulation element 14 partially covers the elongated flat body 12 and, in particular, meets the IPXXB and / or IPXXB+ standards, which specify that the elongated flat body 12 is protected from contact with human fingers. The electrical insulation element 14 can be made from an electrical insulation material, in particular polyamide 66 (PA66) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0068] The structure of the elongated flat body 12 and the conductive element 14 will be further described with reference to Figure 2, which shows an exploded view of the connector pin 10; Figure 3, which shows an enlarged view of the front edge of the elongated flat body 12; Figure 4, which shows an enlarged view of the side edge of the elongated flat body 12; and Figures 5, 6, and 7, which show the cross-section of the connector pin in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction 1.

[0069] Referring to Figure 2, the elongated, flat body 12 each includes two flat contact surfaces 16 and 18 that face each other along the X-axis with a thickness of 3. Due to the orientation of the connector pins 10 in the figure, only the contact surface 16 is visible in the drawing.

[0070] Along the insertion direction 1, each of the contact surfaces 16 and 18 includes a first portion 20, a second portion 22, and a third portion 24 in succession. The first portion 20 is fitted to connect to the connector body or to fit into a socket (see Figure 8). The third portion 24 extends to the free end of the elongated flat body 12. Each portion 20, 22, and 24 has the same thickness, i.e., thickness 3, defined along the X-axis.

[0071] Each portion 20, 22, and 24 has a length defined along the insertion direction 1, in other words, along the Z-axis. The first portion 20 has a length greater than or equal to the length of the third portion 24, in particular 1 to 1.5 times the length of the third portion 24. The second portion 22 has a length shorter than the lengths of the first portion 20 and the third portion 24, in particular 1 / 3 to 1 / 8, and in particular 1 / 4 to 1 / 5.

[0072] As annotated in Figure 2, the cross-section 26 of the first portion 20 in the cross-sectional plane (XY) has a larger area than the cross-section 30 of the third portion 24 in the parallel cross-sectional plane (XY). The cross-section 28 of the second portion 22 in the cross-sectional plane (XY) has a smaller area than both cross-section 26 and cross-section 30.

[0073] The difference in surface area between sections 26, 28, and 30 is due to the different shapes of sections 20, 22, and 24. The second section 22 is formed by the narrow portion of the first section 20, and the third section 24 is wider than the second section 22, but not as wide as the first section 20. These dimensional differences result in a first shoulder 32 (see plane (XY)) being formed between the first section 20 and the second section 22, and a second shoulder 34 (see plane (XY)) being formed between the second section 22 and the third section 24. The first shoulder 32 and the second shoulder 34 are separated by the length of the second section 22. This results in a rectangular notch 38 in the plane (YZ).

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector pins 10 are symmetrical, and in particular mirror-symmetrical with respect to the plane (XZ). Thus, the elongated flat body 12 includes two notches 38 that are symmetrically arranged with respect to each other. Therefore, the description of one notch 38 applies to the other as well. In another embodiment (not shown), the connector pin may have a single notch or at least three notches. The notches may be positioned at different heights relative to each other along the insertion direction 1.

[0075] In the first section 20, the two contact surfaces 16 and 18 are connected to each other by side walls 40 and 42. In the second section 22, the two contact surfaces 16 and 18 are each connected to each other by a support surface 36. In the third section 24, the two contact surfaces 16 and 18 are connected to each other by side edges 44 and 46.

[0076] The side edges 44, 46 of the third portion 24 are connected by a front edge 48. The front edge 48 includes a flat base 50 perpendicular to the insertion direction 1. In other words, the front edge 48 extends in a plane (XY). The angles between the front edge 48 and each of the side edges 44, 46 are 80° to 100°, and in particular, the angle is 90°.

[0077] As shown in the cross-sectional views of Figures 2, 5, and 6, the first projection 52 and the second projection 54 extend from the base 50 of the leading edge 48. In the plane of the flat base 50, the first projection 52 is separate from the second projection 54.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the first projection 52 and the second projection 54 are particularly symmetrical with respect to a mirror surface (plane (XZ)).

[0079] The first projection 52 and the second projection 54 each have a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane (XY) parallel to the flat base 50 of the leading edge 48. Such cross-sectional planes are shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0080] The first projection 52 and the second projection 54 are each positioned on a flat base 50 at an equidistant distance from the contact surfaces 16 and 18. The first projection 52 is positioned such that its distance from the side edge 46 is the same as the distance from the side edge 44 of the second projection 54.

[0081] In particular, the first projection 52 and the second projection 54 have an isosceles trapezoidal shape. Each isosceles trapezoid defines a short side 56 parallel to a long side 58 in the cross-sectional plane. The projections 52 and 54 are arranged such that their respective sides 56 and 58 extend parallel to the thickness 3 of the elongated flat body 12. Each long side 58 is smaller than the thickness 3 of the elongated flat body 12. Logically, each short side 56 is also smaller than the thickness 3 of the elongated flat body 12.

[0082] The first projection 52 and the second projection 54 are arranged in the cross-sectional plane (see Figure 6) such that their respective short sides 56 are parallel to and opposite each other. The long side 58 of the first projection 52 faces the side edge 46. The long side 58 of the second projection 54 faces the side edge 44.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment (see especially Figure 2), the first projection 52 and the second projection 54 are formed by a single block 62, extending from a flat base 50 at the front edge 48 to a free end 60 common to the two projections 52 and 54. In particular, the free end 60 is formed by a flat surface (60) extending parallel to the flat base 50 (see Figures 2 and 3). The block 62 forms the main projection 62. The block 62, in other words, the main projection 62, is provided with an opening 64. In particular, the opening 64 is a through opening 64. The through opening 64 extends in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 1 so as to penetrate the block 62, in other words, the main projection 62, on both sides. The block 62, in other words, the main projection 62, is continuously formed by a connecting portion 66 that partially connects the first projection 52 and the second projection 54. This connecting portion 66 connects the respective trapezoidal short sides 56 of the protruding portions 52 and 54. This connecting portion 66, such as a bridge, can define a through opening 64. The through opening 64 is formed between the flat base 50 of the leading edge portion 48 and the connecting portion 66.

[0084] For each of the first projection 52 and the second projection 54, the side walls 68 and 70 connect the trapezoidal short side 56 to the long side 58 (see Figure 6). These walls 68 and 70 may be inclined between the base 50 and the free end 60. In particular, the side walls 68 and 70 may be inclined to converge, that is, they start from the base 50 and move toward each other toward the free end 60. In another variation, the walls 68 and 70 may converge in other directions, that is, they start from the free end 60 and move toward each other toward the base 50. In yet another variation, the side walls 68 and 70 may extend perpendicular to the base 50.

[0085] Therefore, the first projection 52 and the second projection 54 form a recessed main projection 62 (defined by block 62) relative to the contact surfaces 16, 18. The main projection 62 is thinner than the elongated flat body 12 with a thickness of 3, and thus forms a narrow portion along the insertion direction 1 relative to the flat base 50 of the leading edge 48. This provides a support surface for the electrical insulating element 14, in particular the inside of the flat base 50, the free end 60, the side walls 68, 70, and the opening 64.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector pin 10 includes a third projection 72. The third projection 72 extends from each side edge 44, 46.

[0087] Since the connector pin 10 is symmetrical in the illustrated embodiment, the following description of the third projection 72 extending from the side edge 44 also applies to the third projection 72 extending from the side edge 46.

[0088] As shown in Figure 7, the side edge 44 forms a flat base, particularly in the plane (XZ), and the third projection 72 extends from this flat base in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 1, i.e., parallel to the Y-axis. In a cross-sectional view (XY) perpendicular to the insertion direction 1, as shown in Figure 7, the third projection 72 has a trapezoidal cross-section. In particular, the third projection 72 has a cross-section with an isosceles trapezoidal shape. The isosceles trapezoid defines a short side 74 parallel to the long side 76 in the cross-sectional plane (XY) shown in Figure 7. The short side 74 is coplanar with the side edge 44 (and is therefore schematically shown by a dotted line in Figure 7). In other words, the third projection 72 extends from the side edge 44 of its short side 74 toward its long side 76. Therefore, the longer side 76 forms the free end (76) of the third projection 72. The third projection 72 extends from the side edge 44 toward its free end 76 and gradually widens. The third projection 72 has a dovetail shape.

[0089] The length of the long side 76 is less than the thickness 3 of the elongated, flat body 12. As shown in the cross-sectional plane of Figure 7, the third projection 72 is positioned relative to the side edge 44 so as to be equidistant from the contact surfaces 16 and 18. This configuration allows the support surface for the electrical insulating element 14 to be held against the side edge 44.

[0090] As shown in Figure 4, in the second portion 22, the third projection 72 joins the first shoulder portion 32 to the second shoulder portion 34 so as to form a notch 38. Therefore, the third projection 72 has a bridge-like connecting structure 78 to the second portion 22.

[0091] In the second portion 22, similar to the third portion 24, the third projection 72 is positioned relative to the side edge 44 so as to be equidistant from the contact surfaces 16 and 18. In addition, in the second portion 22, the third portion 24 protrudes from the support surface 36 such that a portion of the support surface 36 remains on both sides of the third projection 72. A portion of the first shoulder 32 and a portion of the second shoulder 34 are also left to provide support for the electrical insulation element 14.

[0092] This arrangement improves the mechanical stability and structural integrity of the electrical insulation element 14.

[0093] As shown in Figure 3, the third projection 72 of the side edge 44 is integrally connected to the second projection 54 by a particularly chamfered corner 80. The third projection 72 of the side edge 46 is integrally connected to the first projection 52 by a particularly chamfered corner 82. In the illustrated embodiment, the first projection 52, the second projection 54, and the third projection 72 on each side edge 44, 46 thus form a continuous block of projections, thereby improving the mechanical stability of the elongated flat body 12 and, consequently, the connector pins 10.

[0094] The electrical insulation element 14 is overmolded onto the elongated, flat body 12. The electrical insulation element 14 completely covers the flat base 50 at the leading edge, the first projection 52, and the second projection 54. The electrical insulation element 14 completely covers the side edges 44, 46 and the third projection 72 of the third portion 24. The electrical insulation element 14 completely covers the support surface 36 of the second portion 22 and the third projections 72 on both sides of the second portion 22, including the connecting structure 78. As shown by the connector pin 10 in Figure 1, once the electrical insulation element 14 is overmolded onto the elongated, flat body 12, none of the first projection 52, the second projection 54, or the third projection 72 are visible.

[0095] The electrical insulating element 14 does not cover the contact surfaces 16 and 18. The electrical insulating element 14 does not even partially cover the first portion 20.

[0096] The electrical insulation element 14 has a roughly "U" shape. The front portion 100 has an outer wall 102 that is inclined to converge toward the insertion direction 1. This facilitates the insertion of the connector pins 10 into the mating plug (not shown).

[0097] The side edges 104 and 106 of the electrical insulating element 14 are connected to the front part 100 by chamfered corners 108 and 110, respectively. The chamfered corners 108 and 110 also facilitate insertion into the mating plug.

[0098] In the plane (YZ), and especially in the plane of each contact surface 16, 18, the side edges 104, 106 of the electrical insulating element 14 are coplane with the contact surfaces 16, 18, respectively. Figure 1 shows that the surfaces of each side edge 104, 106 are coplane with the contact surface 16. In Figure 1, the other side of the pin 10 is not visible, but the other surfaces of each side edge 104, 106 are coplane with the contact surface 18.

[0099] In the plane (XZ), and particularly in the plane of each side wall 40, 42, the side edges 104, 106 of the electrical insulation element 14 are coplanar with the side walls 40, 42 of the first portion 20. Figure 1 shows that the surface of the side edge 104 is coplanar with the side wall 40. In Figure 1, the other side of the pin 10 is not visible, but the surface of the side edge 106 is coplanar with the side wall 42.

[0100] Therefore, the cross-sections of the connector pins 10 in the second section 22 and the third section 24 are rectangular (see, for example, Figure 7), and maintain the same dimensions as the cross-section of the first section 20. In other words, even if the electrical insulating element 14 is overmolded into sections 22 and 24, the dimensions of the connector pins 10 relative to the first section 20 remain unchanged. The connector pins 10 have the shape of a roughly rectangular block.

[0101] The electrical insulating element 14 is held in the insertion direction 1 and in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 1 by adhesion to the support surface formed by the flat base 50, the free end 60, the side edges 42 and 44, the first shoulder 32, the second shoulder 34, and the support surface 36. In addition, the electrical insulating element 14 is stabilized by the electrical insulating material filling the opening 64 and the notch 38.

[0102] Figure 8 partially shows a connector element 200. The connector element 200 comprises a housing 202. The housing 202 in Figure 8 includes two connector pin receptacles 204. The number of receptacles 204 is not limited. Each receptacle 204 includes a base 206. The base 206 is surrounded by a protective collar 208 extending perpendicularly from the base 206 in the insertion direction 1. In particular, the base 206 is surrounded by a "U" shaped protective collar 208. The base 206 includes an opening 210 adapted to receive a connector pin 10. In Figure 8, the connector pin 10 is inserted into the opening 210 of the base 206 of the housing 202. The connector pin 10 is inserted such that the electrical insulation element 14 of the connector pin 10 extends to the base 206 of the housing 202. In other words, the first portion 20 of the flat, elongated body 12 is inserted into the opening 210 and is therefore not visible in Figure 8. The second portion 22 and the third portion 24, on the other hand, protrude from the opening 210. Therefore, it is advantageous that the electrical insulating element 14 is positioned on portions 22 and 24 of the connector pins 10 that may come into contact with fingers. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0103] 1. Insertion direction 3. Thickness 10 connector pins 12. Long, slender, flat body 14 Electrical insulation elements 16 Contact surface 18 Contact surface 20 Part 1 22 Part 2 24. Part 3 26 Cross-section of the first part 28 Cross-section of the second part 30 Cross-section of the third part 32 First shoulder 34. Second shoulder 36 Support surface of the second part 38 Notches 40 Side wall of the first section 42 Side wall of the first section 44 Side edge of the third part 46. ​​Side edge of the third part 48 Front edge 50 Flat base 52 First projection 54 Second projection 56 Short side of an isosceles trapezoid 58 Long side of an isosceles trapezoid 60 free end 62 Main projection, block 64 openings 66 Connection part 68 Side wall 70 side wall 72 Third projection 74 Short side of an isosceles trapezoid 76 Long side of an isosceles trapezoid 78 Connection Structure 80 Chamfered corners 82 Chamfered corners 100 Front of electrical insulation element 102 Exterior Wall 104 Side edge 106 Side edge 108 Chamfered corners 110 Chamfered corners 200 connector elements 202 Housing 204 Receptacle 206 Base 208 Protective Color 210 Opening

Claims

1. A connector pin (10) comprising an elongated, flat body (12) aligned with the insertion direction (1) of the connector pin, The elongated, flat body (12) is conductive, The elongated, flat body (12) includes two contact surfaces (16, 18) that face each other. The contact surfaces (16, 18) are each connected to one another along the insertion direction by their side edges (36, 40, 42, 44, 46), The front edge of the elongated, flat body (12) connects the side edges (36, 40, 42, 44, 46), The leading edge portion (48) includes a flat base (50) perpendicular to the insertion direction (1), The main projection (62) extends from the flat base (50) of the front edge (48) along the insertion direction (1), The main projection (62) includes at least one through opening (64), The connector pin (10) further comprises an electrical insulating element (14), The electrical insulating element (14) covers the leading edge (48) and the main projection (62) so as to fill the through opening (64), The electrical insulating element (14) is a connector pin (10) that at least partially covers the side edges (36, 40, 42).

2. The connector pin (10) according to claim 1, wherein the main projection (62) has walls (68, 70) that extend inclined along the insertion direction (1) from the flat base (50) of the leading edge (48).

3. The connector pin (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electrical insulating element (14) is integrally formed.

4. The connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrical insulating element (14) is overmolded onto the elongated flat body (12).

5. The connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the maximum thickness of the main projection (62) is strictly less than the maximum thickness between the two contact surfaces (16, 18), and the thickness is defined along a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (1).

6. The connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electrical insulating element (14) is coplanar with each of the surfaces (16, 18, 40, 42) of the elongated flat body (12), and in particular with each of the contact surfaces (16, 18).

7. The connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the main projection (62) has at least one trapezoidal cross-section in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base (50) of the leading edge (48), and in particular at least one isosceles trapezoidal cross-section in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base (50) of the leading edge (48).

8. The connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the main projection (62) is formed by a first projection (52) and a second projection (54) that are partially connected to each other by a connecting portion (66) so as to define the through opening (64).

9. The connector pin (10) according to claim 8, wherein each of the first projection (52), or the second projection (54), or the two projections (52, 54) has a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base (50) of the leading edge (48).

10. The trapezoidal shape of each of the aforementioned protrusions (52, 54) is defined by an isosceles trapezoid in the cross-sectional plane parallel to the flat base (50) of the front edge (48), The isosceles trapezoid is defined in the cross-sectional plane as having a short side (56) parallel to the long side (58), The connector pin (10) according to claim 9, wherein the first projection (52) and the second projection (54) are arranged in the cross-sectional plane such that their respective short sides (56) are parallel to and opposite each other.

11. A connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising at least one third projection (72) extending at least partially from one of the side edges (36, 40, 42), wherein the third projection (72) includes a through opening (38), and the electrical insulating element (14) at least partially covers the third projection (72) to fill the through opening (38).

12. The connector pin (10) according to claim 11, wherein the at least one third projection (72) has a trapezoidal shape in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the insertion direction (1).

13. The connector pin (10) according to at least claim 8 or 12, wherein the first projection (52) and the second projection (54) are each integrally connected to the at least one third projection (72) by particularly chamfered corners.

14. The connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the through-opening (38, 64) defines a rectangular cross-section in a plane parallel to the contact surfaces (16, 18).

15. A connector element (200), Housing (202) and A connector pin (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and Equipped with, The housing (202) includes a base (206), and the base (206) is provided with an opening (210). The connector pin (10) is inserted into the opening (210) of the base (206) of the housing (202), thereby extending the electrical insulating element (14) of the connector pin (10) to the base (206) of the housing (202), forming a connector element (200).

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