Terminal position assured connector

Abstract

To provide a connector with guaranteed terminal position.SOLUTION: An electrical connector can includes a female housing and a terminal position guarantee member forming a pre-installed assembly. A TPA member can be placed in a final locking position to provide a stiffening or secondary lock on a terminal and guaranteed terminal position. A male housing can be provided to receive the assembly.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to connectors. In particular, aspects relate to electrical connectors with terminal position assurance. [Background technology]

[0002] background

[0002] Electrical connectors can be used in a variety of wiring systems. The electrical connectors can include a locking mechanism to maintain coupling between the female and male housings. The female housing can support one or more terminals for connection to one or more wire ends of the male housing. A terminal position assurance (TPA) can be used to ensure proper installation and positioning of the terminals within the female housing. The TPA can be locked into position to ensure terminal positioning. The TPA can be inserted from the side or bottom of the female housing, and a portion of the TPA can extend outside the female housing. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] overview

[0003] One aspect provides a connector that can include a housing, a terminal position assurance member, and an arm extending from the terminal position assurance member. The housing can include a first aperture and a second aperture defined by a retention wall of the housing. The terminal position assurance member can be disposed in the first aperture. The arm can include a first detent and a second detent, both of which can extend outward from the arm. Both the first detent and the second detent can be disposed on opposite sides of the retention wall in a first position of the terminal position assurance member. In the second position, the first detent and the second detent can be disposed within the second aperture of the terminal position assurance member. In one aspect, a flat side of the arm between the first detent and the second detent can abut a flat surface of the retention wall in the first position. In another aspect, the arm can be deflected inward toward a base of the terminal position assurance member to move between the first position and the second position. In a further embodiment, the flat upper edge of the second detent can engage with a beveled bottom edge of the retention wall to move from the first position to the second position. In a further embodiment, the chamfered bottom edge of the second detent can engage with a flat upper edge of the retention wall to move from the second position to the first position. In one embodiment, a flat surface of the bottom of the arm below the second detent can abut the retention wall in the second position. In another embodiment, the first aperture can be intermediate the front wall and the rear wall of the housing. In another embodiment, the terminal position assurance member can be completely within the housing in the second position. In another embodiment, the connector can include a second housing for receiving the first housing and the terminal position assurance member when in the second position.

[0004] Another aspect provides a terminal position assurance member. The terminal position assurance member can include a terminal retaining base, an arm, a first detent, and a second detent. The arm can be disposed adjacent to the terminal retaining base. The first detent can extend outward from the arm. The second detent can extend outward from the arm and can be disposed below the first detent. In one aspect, the terminal retaining base can include a terminal retaining surface for receiving the terminal. In a further aspect, the terminal retaining base can include a terminal retaining arm adjacent to the terminal retaining surface for retaining the terminal. In a further aspect, the terminal retaining arm can include a sloped surface extending to a rear wall of the terminal retaining arm. In another aspect, the terminal position assurance member can be completely within the housing and retain the terminal. In another aspect, a bottom edge of the second detent can engage with the housing to retain the terminal.

[0005] Another aspect provides a method for retaining terminals within a connector. The method can include providing a terminal position assurance member in a first aperture of a housing, providing a first detent of the terminal position assurance member in a second aperture of the housing, moving an arm of the terminal position assurance member inward, extending a second detent of the terminal position assurance member into the second aperture, and fully receiving the terminal position assurance member within the housing. In one aspect, the method can further include receiving the housing into the second housing. In another aspect, the method can further include aligning a bottom surface of the arm with an upper surface of a retention wall of the housing. In this aspect, the second aperture can be defined by the retention wall. In another aspect, the method can further include aligning a terminal contact surface of the terminal position assurance member with a terminal contact surface of the housing. In another aspect, the terminal retention arm can extend to a first height above a second height of the terminal contact surface. In this aspect, the terminal retention arm can exert a force on the terminal to prevent withdrawal of the terminal.

[0006] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate the embodiments and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the embodiments and enable those skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 7A-7C are perspective views of a female connector housing and a terminal position assurance member according to various embodiments. [Figure 2A]

[0008] 1A-1C are perspective views of various aspects of a terminal position assurance device. [Figure 2B]

[0009] FIG. 2 is a front view of the terminal position assurance member of FIG. [Figure 2C]

[0010] FIG. 2 is a top view of the terminal position assurance device of FIG. 1. [Figure 2D]

[0011] FIG. 2 is a side view of the terminal position assurance device of FIG. [Figure 3]

[0012] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the terminal position assurance member of FIG. 2C taken along line 3-3. [Figure 4]

[0013] 1 is an assembly view of a connector according to various embodiments. [Figure 5]

[0014] 2 is a front view of the female connector housing and the terminal position assurance member of FIG. 1. [Figure 6]

[0015] 2 is a side view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 1. [Figure 7]

[0016] 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 5 taken along line 7-7. [Figure 8]

[0017] 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 6 taken along line 8-8. [Figure 9]

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 1. [Figure 10]

[0019] 2 is a side view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 1. [Figure 11]

[0020] 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 9 taken along line 11-11. [Figure 12]

[0021] 12 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the female connector housing and terminal position assurance member of FIG. 10 taken along line 12-12. [Figure 13]

[0022] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 4. [Figure 14]

[0023] FIG. 5 is a front view of the connector of FIG. 4. [Figure 15]

[0024] 15 is a side cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008]

[0025] Features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout, and in which like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.

[0009] Detailed Description

[0026] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," or the like indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it is believed to be within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly stated.

[0010]

[0027] The following examples are illustrative of the present embodiments, but are not intended to be limiting. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the art, which will be obvious to those skilled in the art, are within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0011]

[0028] As used herein, the term "about" is inclusive of the number to which it refers and also encompasses numbers that are bounded and within 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20%, except where such number may exceed 100% of a possible value.

[0012]

[0029] Aspects provide electrical connectors for wiring systems, such as vehicle wiring systems. The electrical connectors described herein can have improved terminal position assurance. The improved terminal position assurance can ensure terminal connection and prevent unintentional withdrawal.

[0013]

[0030] The electrical connector can include a female housing, a male housing, and a terminal position assurance member ("TPA member"). The female member and TPA member can form an assembly that can be mated to the male housing. The TPA member can maintain proper terminal position within the housing. The terminal segments, including the wire terminals, can include a primary lock to maintain their position within the housing and ensure proper mating. In some embodiments, the TPA member can reinforce the primary lock. In other embodiments, the TPA member can be a secondary lock. Advantageously, feedback (e.g., visual, tactile, and / or audible feedback) can be provided to indicate that the TPA member is in a final locked position so that the terminals can be installed under terminal position assurance. In the final locked position, the TPA member can be completely within the female housing. In other embodiments, a portion of the TPA member can extend outside the female housing. Once the terminal segments are installed, the TPA member can be placed in a final locked position, in which the TPA member is in a blocking engagement with the terminal segments, preventing their unintentional removal from the female housing.

[0014]

[0031] The male housing may include a front and a rear. An aperture for receiving the female housing and TPA member assembly may extend from the front to a portion between the front and rear. The female housing may include a front, rear, bottom, and top. One or more terminal apertures may extend from the front to the rear of the female housing to receive one or more terminal segments. Another aperture may extend from the bottom to a portion between the bottom and top of the female housing to receive the TPA member. In this manner, the electrical connector can support a TPA member inserted in a direction other than the mating direction between the female housing and the male housing. The aperture in which the TPA member is disposed may intersect the terminal aperture so that the TPA member can support a terminal segment disposed in the terminal aperture.

[0015]

[0032] As described herein, the assembly including the female housing and the TPA member can be pre-installed. Therefore, the user does not need to couple the TPA member to the female housing. The TPA member can be in a pre-locked position before being moved to a position that provides terminal position assurance. In the pre-locked position, a portion of the TPA member can extend outward from the bottom of the female housing. In other embodiments, the TPA member can be inserted from another side of the female housing, such as the front or rear. In some embodiments, the male housing can include an additional TPA member.

[0016]

[0033] In the final locking position, the TPA member can provide terminal position assurance. The TPA member can be moved to the final locking position, where it can be completely within the female housing. In some embodiments, terminal segments can be inserted into the terminal apertures of the female housing in the pre-locking position, but the TPA member can be prevented from being moved to the final locking position if one or more terminal segments are partially engaged. In some embodiments, the terminal segments can prevent the TPA member from being moved to the final locking position if they are only partially engaged. Thus, in some embodiments, the terminal segments must be fully installed in order for the TPA member to be moved to the final locking position. Once the terminal segments are fully installed, they do not prevent the TPA member from being moved to the final locking position. Thus, the terminal segments can be installed while the TPA member is in the pre-locking position. Once the terminal segments are installed, the TPA member can be moved to the final locking position. In some embodiments, the terminal segments can be prevented from being inserted through the terminal apertures of the female housing when the TPA member is in the final locking position.

[0017]

[0034] Because a portion of the TPA member can extend outward from the bottom of the female housing in the pre-lock position, the assembly can be prevented from passing through the bottom of the male housing. In this way, the male housing can be prevented from receiving the female housing and TPA member in the pre-lock position to mate the male housing with the female housing. Visual feedback that a portion of the TPA member extends outward from the bottom of the female housing can indicate the pre-lock position of the TPA member. Therefore, visual feedback can indicate that the TPA member is not in the final lock position to provide terminal position assurance. When the TPA member is in the final lock position and is fully seated within the female housing, the male housing can accept the assembly. This can provide further assurance that the electrical connector includes one or more terminal segments introduced by the position assurance. Furthermore, for example, by disposing the entire TPA member within the female housing, the overall size of the electrical connector can be reduced, thereby allowing the connector to have a low profile. This is beneficial, for example, in vehicle wiring systems that are complex and require numerous components for high reliability but where space is limited.

[0018]

[0035] The female housing can also include a retention aperture. In some embodiments, the retention aperture is within the female housing and can extend from the front of the female housing to the aperture in which the TPA member is disposed. Thus, the two apertures can intersect. In other embodiments, the retention aperture can extend from the aperture in which the TPA member is disposed to a portion of the female housing between the aperture in which the TPA member is disposed and the front of the female housing. In other embodiments, the retention aperture can extend from the aperture in which the TPA member is disposed to a portion of the female housing between the aperture in which the TPA member is disposed and the rear of the female housing.

[0019]

[0036] The TPA member can include a cantilevered locking arm having a locking surface from which a retention detent extends outward. To retain the TPA member, the retention detent of the TPA member can extend into the retention aperture of the female housing and engage with a retention wall of the female housing, which can form a boundary of the retention aperture. In some embodiments, the retention wall can be a lower boundary of the retention aperture. The TPA member can be prevented from being removed from the female housing aperture due to interference between the retention detent and the retention wall. Pre-installation of the assembly of the female housing and the TPA member can include installing the TPA member so that it is retained by the female housing in this manner.

[0020]

[0037] The locking arm may further include a locking detent that can engage a retaining wall of the female housing to move the TPA member fully into the female housing and into the final locked position. To lock the TPA member, the locking arm may be deflected inward from its biased position so that the locking detent can pass through the retaining wall of the female housing and move the TPA member into the female housing aperture. In some embodiments, moving the TPA member into the female housing aperture may deflect the locking arm inward. The TPA member may be prevented from moving further into the female housing by the aperture sidewall that receives the TPA member. When the TPA member is moved into the female housing aperture, the locking arm is deflected outward to its biased position and the locking detent may merge with the retention detent within the retention aperture. When both the retention detent and the locking detent are positioned within the retention aperture, the TPA member is fully inserted into the female housing and the TPA member may be in the final locked position. In the final locked position, interference between the locking detent and the retaining wall can prevent the TPA member from being removed from the female housing aperture.

[0021]

[0038] The shape of the retaining wall and locking arm can assist in moving the TPA member between the pre-locked and final locked positions. The retaining detent can have a beveled bottom edge that can engage with a flat upper edge of the retaining wall. In this way, the locking arm can be deflected inwardly past the retaining wall. The locking detent can have a flat upper edge that can engage with the beveled bottom edge of the retaining wall to move the TPA member into the female housing when the locking arm is deflected inward. Similarly, the locking detent can have a chamfered bottom edge that can engage with the flat upper edge of the retaining wall to deflect the locking arm inwardly so that the TPA member can be withdrawn from the female housing. This can release the TPA member from the final locked position for ease of reset or maintenance.

[0022]

[0039] Additionally, by locating the locking detents within the female housing, the overall size of the electrical connector can be reduced. Instead of positioning the locking detents outside or on the exterior surface of the female housing, the locking detents can be within retention apertures within the female housing. Thus, the connector can have a low profile when the TPA member is in the final locked position. The low profile of the connectors described herein, aided by locating the locking detents inside the female housing, is beneficial, for example, in vehicle wiring systems that are complex and require numerous components for high reliability, but where space is limited.

[0023]

[0040] The TPA member may further include one or more terminal retaining bases that may abut the locking arms. The terminal retaining bases may protect and provide support to the locking arms. The shape of the terminal retaining bases may assist in installation of the terminals with position assurance. The terminal contact surfaces of the terminal retaining bases may abut the terminal contact surfaces of the female housing in the terminal apertures. The terminal contact surfaces may receive terminal segments, and the terminal segments may advance through the terminal apertures while being guided by the inclined guide surfaces of the terminal retaining bases. The inclined guide surfaces may form part of terminal retaining arms, which may extend upward from the terminal retaining base. As described herein, the upward direction may be a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis. The terminal retaining contact surfaces on the rear wall of the terminal retaining base may be in blocking engagement with the terminal segments once the terminals are installed. The terminal retaining contact surfaces may exert a force on the terminal segments to provide reinforcement / secondary locking and prevent removal. Thus, the TPA member in the final locked position may provide assurance that the position of the terminals is maintained and that the terminal segments are not unintentionally removed. This can provide improved terminal mating.

[0024]

[0041] Audible feedback (e.g., a click) can be provided to indicate that the TPA member is in the final locked position. Additionally, tactile and / or visual feedback can be provided to indicate that the TPA member is in the final locked position. For example, the entire TPA member within the female housing in the final locked position can provide a visual signal that the terminal is installed with terminal position assurance. This feedback subsequently provides a reinforcement / secondary lock, allowing the terminal segment to be installed with assurance that the terminal is installed with terminal position assurance.

[0025]

[0042] A pre-installed assembly including female housing 100 and TPA member 300 is shown in FIG. 1. Female housing 100 includes TPA member aperture 118 that receives TPA member 300. TPA member 300 can be partially positioned within female housing 100, allowing TPA member 300 to be in pre-lock position 10. In final lock position 20 (FIG. 9), TPA member 300 can be fully positioned within female housing 100.

[0026]

[0043] 2A-D , TPA member 300 can include a front portion 302, a rear portion 304, a first side 306, a second side 308, a top portion 310, a bottom portion 312, one or more locking arms 314, and one or more terminal retaining bases 326. Each locking arm 314 can include a locking surface 316, a retention detent 318, and a locking detent 320. Each terminal retaining base 326 can include a terminal contacting surface 328, a rear wall 330, and a terminal retaining arm 332 having a terminal retaining contact surface 334 and a guide surface 336.

[0027]

[0044] Terminal retaining arm 332 can extend upward from terminal retaining base 326 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis 9 (FIG. 11). In some embodiments, terminal contact surface 328 can be generally flat and adjacent terminal retaining arm 332. In some embodiments, guide surface 336 of terminal retaining arm 332 can be sloped. In other embodiments, rear wall 330 of terminal retaining base 326 can include terminal retaining contact surface 334 of terminal retaining arm 332. In some embodiments, terminal retaining contact surface 334 can exert a force on an installed terminal supported by terminal segment 402 (FIG. 15) connected to wire 400 to provide reinforcement / secondary locking and prevent removal. Terminal segment 402 can thus be placed in a blocking engagement with TPA member 300, such that it is retained and prevented from unintentional removal. Blocking engagements are described in more detail below.

[0028]

[0045] Terminal retaining base 326 can be positioned adjacent to locking arm 314. In some embodiments, locking arm 314 can be positioned adjacent to terminal retaining base 326 on one or both sides. In this manner, each terminal retaining base 326 can protect and support locking arm 314.

[0029]

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, the locking arm 314 can be cantilevered. The locking arm 314 can have a biased position as shown in FIG. 3 and can be deflected inward from the biased position. The retention detent 318 and the locking detent 320 can extend outward from the locking surface 316 of the locking arm 314. The retention detent 318 can include a bottom edge 338. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 338 can be beveled. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 338 can be at a bevel angle α from the axis 2 of the retention detent 318. In some embodiments, the bevel angle α can be in a range of about 5 degrees to about 60 degrees, for example, in a range of about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees, for example, about 30 degrees. The locking detent 320 can include a top edge 322 and a bottom edge 324. In some embodiments, the top edge 322 can be flat. In other embodiments, the bottom edge 324 can be chamfered. In some embodiments, bottom edge 324 can be at a chamfer angle γ from axis 3 of lock detent 320. In some embodiments, chamfer angle γ from axis 3 of lock detent 320 can be an acute angle. In some embodiments, chamfer angle γ can be in the range of about 5 degrees to about 60 degrees, such as in the range of about 15 degrees to about 45 degrees, for example, about 30 degrees.

[0030]

[0047] As shown in FIG. 4 , the electrical connector can include a female housing 100, a TPA member 300, and a male housing 200. In some embodiments, these components can be injection molded plastic. The male housing 200 can support a reinforcement tab 220 and a male pin 218. The male housing 200 can accept a pre-installed assembly of the female housing 100 and the TPA member 300 to couple the male housing 200 to the female housing 100.

[0031]

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 5-6, the female housing 100 can include a front portion 102, a back portion 104, a first side 106, a second side 108, a top portion 110, and a bottom portion 112.

[0032]

[0049] 5 and 7, the female housing 100 may further include one or more retention apertures 122 and retention walls 124. The TPA member aperture 118 may include aperture sidewalls 120. The retention walls 124 may include a top edge 128 and a bottom edge 126.

[0033]

[0050] 7, the TPA member aperture 118 can extend from the bottom 112 of the female housing 100 to a location between the bottom 112 and the top 110 of the female housing 100. The TPA member aperture 118 can also be intermediate the front 102 and rear 104 of the female housing 100 and intermediate the first side 106 and second side 108 of the female housing 100.

[0034]

[0051] In the pre-lock position 10, the TPA member 300 may be partially disposed within the TPA member aperture 118. Thus, the bottom 312 of the TPA member 300 may extend below the bottom 112 of the female housing 100. Visual feedback that the TPA member 300 is partially disposed within the female housing 100 may indicate that the TPA member 300 is in the pre-lock position 10. The TPA member 300 may be disposed within the TPA member aperture 118 such that the TPA member 300 can fit between the aperture sidewalls 120. A gap may exist between the aperture sidewalls 120 and the TPA member 300, allowing the TPA member 300 to move within the TPA member aperture 118.

[0035]

[0052] Referring to FIG. 5 , one or more retention apertures 122 can be within the female housing 100. In some embodiments, the retention apertures 122 can extend from the front 102 of the female housing 100 to a portion of the female housing 100 between the front 102 and the rear 104 of the female housing 100. In some embodiments, the retention apertures 122 can intersect with the TPA member apertures 118 at a location on the female housing 100 intermediate the front 102 and the rear 104 of the female housing 100. As shown in FIG. 5 , the retention apertures 122 can be intermediate the first side 106 and the second side 108 of the female housing 100. In some embodiments, the retention apertures 122 can be a distance D1 from the first side 106 and a distance D2 from the second side 108. In some embodiments, the retention apertures 122 can be intermediate the top 110 and the bottom 112 of the female housing 100. In some embodiments, retention aperture 122 can be a distance D3 from top 110 and a distance D4 from bottom 112. In some embodiments, D3 can be greater than D4.

[0036]

[0053] 7, in some embodiments, thickness L1 of female housing 100 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis 9 (FIG. 11) may be greater than thickness L2 of TPA member 300 in the same direction. Thus, TPA member 300 can be received by female housing 100 from pre-lock position 10 (FIG. 7) to final lock position 20 (FIG. 11).

[0037]

[0054] In some embodiments, retention aperture 122 can extend from front 102 to TPA member aperture 118. In other embodiments, retention aperture 122 can extend from TPA member aperture 118 to a portion of female housing 100 between TPA member aperture 118 and front 102 of female housing 100. In other embodiments, retention aperture 122 can extend from TPA member aperture 118 to a portion of female housing 100 between TPA member aperture 118 and rear 104 of female housing 100. In other embodiments, retention aperture 122 can extend from TPA member aperture 118 to a portion of female housing 100 between TPA member aperture 118 and first side 106 of female housing 100. In another embodiment, retention aperture 122 can extend from TPA member aperture 118 to a portion of female housing 100 between TPA member aperture 118 and second side 108 of female housing 100. Thus, retention aperture 122 can be recessed within female housing 100 and can extend from TPA member aperture 118 toward one or more sides of female housing 100.

[0038]

[0055] In the pre-lock position 10, the retention detent 318 of the locking arm 314 can be positioned within the retention aperture 122. The retention detent 318 can engage with the retention wall 124 of the female housing 100 to support the TPA member 300 within the female housing 100. In some embodiments, the bottom edge 338 of the retention detent 318 can engage with the top edge 128 of the retention wall 124. In this manner, the retention wall 124 can be the lower boundary of the retention aperture 122. In some embodiments, the top edge 128 of the retention wall 124 can be flat. Thus, in some embodiments, the beveled bottom edge 338 of the retention detent 318 can engage with the flat top edge 128 of the retention wall 124 to retain the TPA member 300 within the female housing 100. In some embodiments, the retention wall 124 can form part of the bottom 112 of the female housing 100.

[0039]

[0056] To move TPA member 300 from pre-lock position 10 to final locked position 20 (FIG. 9) where TPA member 300 can be fully positioned within female housing 100, locking arms 314 can be deflected inward from a biased position. In some embodiments, bottom edges 338 of retention detents 318 can be beveled to clear flat top edges 128 to allow locking arms 314 to be deflected inward.

[0040]

[0057] In some embodiments, the locking surface 316 of the locking arm 314 can be flat between the retention detent 318 and the locking detent 320. In some embodiments, in the pre-lock position 10, the flat locking surface 316 between the retention detent 318 and the locking detent 320 can engage with the retention wall 124. Thus, in the pre-lock position 10, the retention detent 318 and the locking detent 320 of the locking arm 314 can be on opposite sides of the retention wall 124, with the retention detent 318 positioned above the retention wall 124 within the retention aperture 122 and the locking detent 320 positioned below the retention wall 124. In some embodiments, the retention wall 124 can form part of the bottom 112 of the female housing 100, such that the locking detent 320 can be positioned below the bottom 112 in the pre-lock position 10.

[0041]

[0058] Locking detent 320 can engage retaining wall 124 of female housing 100 to move TPA member 300 from pre-locked position 10 to final locked position 20 ( FIG. 9 ), where TPA member 300 can be fully positioned within female housing 100. In certain embodiments, bottom edge 126 of retaining wall 124 can be chamfered. In some embodiments, bottom edge 126 can be at a chamfer angle θ from axis 6 of retaining wall 124 ( FIG. 11 ). In some embodiments, chamfer angle θ from axis 6 of retaining wall 124 can be an acute angle. In some embodiments, chamfer angle θ can be in a range of about 5 degrees to about 60 degrees, e.g., about 15 degrees to 45 degrees, e.g., about 30 degrees. In some embodiments, bottom edge 126 of retaining wall 124 can be chamfered to allow flat top edge 322 of locking detent 320 to pass through, thereby allowing TPA member 300 to move from pre-lock position 10 to final locked position 20 ( FIG. 9 ) where TPA member 300 can be fully positioned within female housing 100.

[0042]

[0059] 5-6 and 8, the female housing 100 can further include one or more terminal apertures 114 and one or more terminal contact surfaces 130. The terminal apertures 114 can receive terminal segments 402 (FIGS. 13-15). The terminal apertures 114 can extend from the front 102 of the female housing 100 to a portion of the female housing 100 between the front 102 and the rear 104 of the female housing 100. In some embodiments, the terminal apertures 114 can intersect the TPA member apertures 118 in a portion of the female housing 100 intermediate the front 102 and the rear 104 of the female housing 100. The terminal contact surfaces 130 can be within the terminal apertures 114.

[0043]

[0060] 8 , in some embodiments, terminal contact surface 130 can abut terminal contact surface 328 of TPA member 300. In some embodiments, in pre-lock position 10, terminal contact surface 130 can be positioned above terminal contact surface 334 of terminal retaining base 326. Thus, terminal contact surface 334 can be positioned within TPA member aperture 118 below terminal aperture 114. In pre-lock position 10, terminal segment 402 ( FIG. 15 ) can be inserted into female housing 100 through terminal aperture 114 and received by terminal contact surface 130.

[0044]

[0061] Terminal segment 402 can extend through terminal aperture 114. Terminal aperture 114 can intersect TPA member aperture 118, such that terminal segment 402 can intersect TPA member aperture 118. In some embodiments, terminal contact surface 334 is below terminal contact surface 130 and can be absent from terminal aperture 114, such that in pre-lock position 10, terminal segment 402 can extend through terminal aperture 114 without contacting terminal contact surface 334. Thus, in some embodiments, terminal contact surface 334, like terminal contact surface 130, is absent from terminal aperture 114 so as to be able to receive terminal segment 402 in pre-lock position 10.

[0045]

[0062] Terminal segment 402 can be positioned within terminal aperture 114 in pre-lock position 10. Once terminal segment 402 is installed in terminal aperture 114, TPA member 300 can be moved upward in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis 9 ( FIG. 11 ) within TPA member aperture 118 to provide a reinforcement or secondary lock for terminal segment 402. If terminal segment 402 is not fully installed and is only partially engaged, TPA member 300 can be prevented from moving into female housing 100. Instead, similar to terminal contact surface 334, in some embodiments, terminal retaining arm 332 of terminal retaining base 326 can be positioned below terminal contact surface 130 of female housing 100 in pre-lock position 10.

[0046]

[0063] The terminal retaining arms 332 of the TPA member 300 can provide a blocking engagement with the terminal segments 402 to provide a reinforcing / secondary lock and prevent unintentional removal of the terminal segments 402. Therefore, the terminal retaining base 326 can be positioned below the terminal contact surfaces 130 of the female housing 100 in the pre-lock position 10, so that the terminal retaining arms 332 are not within the terminal apertures 114 in the pre-lock position 10. In this manner, the guide surfaces 336 and the portions of the rear wall 330 supporting the terminal retaining contact surfaces 334 are not within the terminal apertures 114 in the pre-lock position 10. Because the terminal retaining arms 332 are not within the terminal apertures 114 in the pre-lock position 10, the installed terminal segments 402 can extend through the terminal apertures 114 without contacting the terminal retaining arms 332. Thus, the terminal retaining arms 332 and the terminal segments 402 can fail to form a blocking engagement such that they are retained and prevented from unintentional removal. Thus, TPA member 300 may fail to reinforce or secondarily lock terminal segments 402 to provide terminal position assurance in pre-lock position 10. Visual feedback of the portion of TPA member 300 extending outward from bottom 112 of female housing 100 can indicate that TPA member 300 is in pre-lock position 10, where TPA member 300 may fail to reinforce or secondarily lock installed terminal segments 402.

[0047]

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 9-11 , TPA member 300 can be in final locked position 20. To move TPA member 300 to final locked position 20, after terminal segment 402 is inserted into female housing 100, TPA member 300 can be moved upward into female housing 100 within TPA member aperture 118 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis 9 ( FIG. 11 ) toward top 110 of female housing 100. Once in final locked position 20, TPA member 300 can reside completely within female housing 100 such that bottom 312 of TPA member 300 does not extend below bottom 112 of female housing 100. Visual feedback that TPA member 300 is fully disposed within female housing 100 can indicate that TPA member 300 is in final locked position 20. In certain embodiments, sidewall 120 of TPA member aperture 118 can prevent further movement of TPA member 300 into female housing 100 such that TPA member 300 provides assurance that final locked position 20 is achieved.

[0048]

[0065] In particular, TPA member 300 cannot be moved upward within TPA member aperture 118 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis 9 (FIG. 11) if terminal segment 402 (FIG. 15) is only partially engaged. Because TPA member aperture 118 can intersect with terminal aperture 114, a terminal segment 402 positioned within terminal aperture 114 that is not fully inserted can prevent TPA member 300 from being moved upward within TPA member aperture 118. Thus, TPA member 300 can be prevented from providing reinforcement or secondary locking of terminal segment 402. In this manner, visual feedback that TPA member 300 is fully positioned within female housing 100 and associated tactile and / or audible feedback that TPA member 300 is fully positioned within female housing 100 are important. This feedback can provide assurance that terminal segment 402 is installed with reinforcement or secondary locking.

[0049]

[0066] In the pre-lock position 10, the TPA member 300 can be retained within the female housing 100 by the retention detents 318 (FIG. 7). The TPA member 300 cannot be moved upward in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 9 (FIG. 11) when the terminal segments 402 are only partially engaged, as described above. Therefore, to move the TPA member 300 upward toward the top 110 of the female housing 100 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 9 so that the TPA member 300 can be in the final locked position 20, the terminal segments 402 must be installed and positioned within the terminal apertures 114. To move the TPA member 300 into the female housing 100, the locking arms 314 can be deflected inward from the biased position. In some embodiments, the locking arms 314 can be deflected inward in a lateral direction generally parallel to the lateral axis 8 (FIG. 11). In another embodiment, TPA member 300 can be moved within female housing 100 to deflect locking arms 314 inward. A gap can exist between aperture sidewall 120 and TPA member 300 to allow locking arms 314 to move laterally within TPA member aperture 118 from the biased position. In some embodiments, bottom edge 338 of retention detent 318 can be beveled to pass over flat upper edge 128 of retaining wall 124 to allow locking arms 314 to deflect inward. Additionally, in some embodiments, bottom edge 126 of retaining wall 124 can be chamfered to allow flat upper edge 322 of locking detent 320 to pass over so that TPA member 300 can move to final locked position 20. TPA member 300 can then be moved within female housing 100 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis 9 toward top 110 of female housing 100.

[0050]

[0067] In certain embodiments, in addition to the visual feedback that TPA member 300 is fully within female housing 100, an audible and / or tactile feedback signal (e.g., an audible click) can be emitted to indicate that TPA member 300 is in final locked position 20. This feedback can provide assurance that terminal segment 402 is installed with a reinforcement or secondary lock.

[0051]

[0068] 11 , when locking arm 314 is positioned above retaining wall 124, it can flex outward to a biased position. In some embodiments, locking arm 314 can flex outward in a lateral direction generally parallel to lateral axis 8. In this manner, locking detent 320 can be positioned within retention aperture 122. Thus, in final locked position 20, both retention detent 318 and locking detent 320 of locking arm 314 can be positioned within retention aperture 122 above retaining wall 124. In some embodiments, locking detent 320 of locking arm 314 of TPA member 300 can be positioned within retention aperture 122 above retaining wall 124 in final locked position 20. In some embodiments, retaining wall 124 can form a portion of bottom 112 of female housing 100. In some embodiments, the retaining wall 124 can form a portion of the bottom 112 of the female housing 100 so that the locking detent 320 can be positioned below the bottom 112 in the pre-lock position 10 .

[0052]

[0069] In some embodiments, retention aperture 122 within female housing 100 can reduce the overall profile of the connector. In some embodiments, placing locking detents 320 within retention apertures 122 to move TPA member 300 to final locked position 20 can reduce the overall profile of the connector because retention apertures 122 are within female housing 100.

[0053]

[0070] The TPA member 300 can be moved downward to reset the assembly of the female housing 100 and the TPA member 300 to release the terminal segments 402, for example, so that the terminals can be disconnected or to facilitate maintenance. In this manner, the TPA member 300 can return to the pre-lock position 10 ( FIG. 7 ). To return from the final lock position 20 to the pre-lock position 10, the TPA member 300 can be moved downward from the top 110 of the female housing 100 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 9 ( FIG. 11 ). To move the TPA member 300 downward, the locking arms 314 can be deflected inward from the biased position in a lateral direction generally parallel to the lateral axis 8 ( FIG. 11 ). In some embodiments, the bottom edges 324 of the locking detents 320 can be beveled to clear the flat upper edges 128 of the retention walls 124 to allow the locking arms 314 to deflect inward. The TPA member 300 can then be moved downward from the top 110 of the female housing 100. Once the pre-lock position 10 is reached, the retention detents 318 can engage the retention walls 124 as described above to retain the TPA member 300 within the female housing 100 .

[0054]

[0071] 10 and 12, in some embodiments, terminal contact surface 334 of TPA member 300 is generally adjacent to terminal contact surface 130 of female housing 100 when the assembly of female housing 100 and TPA member 300 is in final locked position 20. In some embodiments, terminal contact surface 328 and terminal contact surface 130 can extend along a common flat plane. In this manner, terminal contact surface 334 can further reside within terminal aperture 114 for receiving terminal segment 402 (FIG. 13).

[0055]

[0072] Like terminal contact surface 334, in some embodiments, terminal retaining arm 332 can be within terminal aperture 114 in final locked position 20. In this manner, guide surface 336 and the portion of rear wall 330 that supports terminal retaining contact surface 334 can be within terminal aperture 114 in final locked position 20. Because terminal retaining arm 332 is within terminal aperture 114 in final locked position 20, terminal segment 402 can be placed in blocking engagement with TPA member 300 such that TPA member 300 is retained and prevented from unintentional removal. Thus, TPA member 300 can reinforce or secondary lock terminal segment 402 to provide terminal position assurance in final locked position 20.

[0056]

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 13-15 , terminal segments 402 can be received within terminal aperture 114 by terminal contact surface 130 of female housing 100 and terminal contact surface 334 of TPA member 300. Terminal segments 402 can then be advanced through terminal aperture 114 and guided by terminal retaining arms 332. In some embodiments, terminal segments 402 advance through terminal aperture 114 in a lateral direction generally parallel to lateral axis 8 ( FIG. 11 ). As shown in FIG. 15 , terminal segments 402 can intersect terminal retaining arms 332 as they advance through terminal aperture 114. In some embodiments, guide surfaces 336 of terminal retaining arms 332 can be angled to assist terminal segments 402 in advancing through terminal aperture 114. When the terminal of the terminal segment 402 is installed within the terminal aperture 114, in some embodiments, the terminal retaining arm 332 and a portion of the terminal segment 402 can fit snugly within the terminal aperture 114 in the final locked position 20.

[0057]

[0074] When the terminal of the terminal segment 402 is installed in the terminal aperture 114, in some embodiments, the terminal retaining arm 332 and the terminal segment 402 are placed in blocking engagement in the final locked position 20. In some embodiments, a portion of the terminal retaining contact surface 334 of the rear wall 330 of the terminal retaining base 326 can be placed in blocking engagement with the terminal segment 402. In certain embodiments, a portion of the terminal segment 402, when installed in the terminal aperture 114, can extend downward toward the bottom 112 of the female housing 100 in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 9 (FIG. 11). Thus, each terminal segment 402 can extend onto at least two sides of the terminal retaining arm 332. In certain aspects, when terminal segment 402 is pulled laterally toward front 102 of female housing 100 in a direction generally parallel to horizontal axis 8 ( FIG. 11 ), a downwardly extending portion of terminal segment 402 can engage terminal retention contact surface 334 to stop lateral movement of terminal segment 402 so that terminal segment 402 is retained. Thus, terminal retention contact surface 334 can exert a force on terminal segment 402 to provide a reinforcing / secondary lock and prevent removal. Thus, TPA member 300 in final locked position 20 can provide assurance that the position of terminal segment 402 is maintained and that terminal segment 402 will not be unintentionally removed.

[0058]

[0075] The present invention has been described above with the help of functional building blocks that illustrate the implementation of certain functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries may be defined so long as the certain functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed.

[0059]

[0076] The foregoing description of specific embodiments sufficiently reveals the general nature of the present invention so that others, by applying knowledge within the art, may readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various uses without undue experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Such adaptations and modifications are therefore intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is understood that the terms or phrases herein are for the purpose of description and not of limitation, as interpreted by those skilled in the art in light of the teaching and guidance.

[0060]

[0077] The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0061] 2-axis 3-axis 8 Horizontal axis 9 Longitudinal Axis 10 Pre-lock position 20 Final lock position 100 female housing 102 Front 104 rear 106 First Side 108 Second Side 110 Upper 112 Bottom 114 Terminal Aperture 118 TPA member aperture 120 Aperture sidewall 122 Retaining Aperture 124 Retaining Wall 126 Bottom edge 128 Upper edge 130 Terminal contact surface 200 male housing 218 Male Pin 220 Reinforcement tab 300 TPA parts 302 front 304 rear 306 First Side 308 Second Side 310 Upper 312 Bottom 314 Lock Arm 316 Locking Surface 318 Retention Detent 320 Lock Detent 322 Upper edge 324 Bottom edge 326 Terminal holding base 328 Terminal contact surface 330 Back wall 332 Terminal holding arm 334 Terminal holding contact surface 336 Guide surface 338 Bottom edge 400 wire 402 terminal segments

Claims

1. a housing having a first aperture and a second aperture, the second aperture being bounded by a retaining wall of the housing; a terminal position assurance member disposed within the first aperture, the terminal position assurance member having an upper portion configured to face an inner surface of the housing; an arm extending downwardly from the top portion of the TPA member, the arm including a first detent and a second detent extending outwardly from the arm, the first detent and the second detent being disposed on opposite sides of the retaining wall in a first position of the TPA member and being disposed within the second aperture in a second position of the TPA member; A connector comprising:

2. 2. The connector of claim 1, wherein a flat side of the arm between the first detent and the second detent abuts a flat surface of the retaining wall in the first position.

3. 3. The connector of claim 1, wherein the arms are deflected inwardly toward a base of the terminal position assurance member to move between the first position and the second position.

4. 4. The connector of claim 3, wherein a flat top edge of said second detent engages a beveled bottom edge of said retaining wall for movement from said first position to said second position.

5. 4. The connector of claim 3, wherein a chamfered bottom edge of said second detent engages a flat top edge of said retaining wall for movement from said second position to said first position.

6. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a flat surface at the bottom of the arm below the second detent abuts the retaining wall in the second position.

7. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first aperture is intermediate the front and rear walls of the housing.

8. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the terminal position assurance member is completely within the housing in the second position.

9. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a second housing that receives the first housing and the terminal position assurance member when in the second position.

10. A terminal position assurance device, comprising: an upper portion configured to face an inner surface of the housing; a terminal holding base; an arm disposed adjacent to the terminal retaining base, the arm extending downwardly from the upper portion of the terminal position assurance member; a first detent extending outwardly from the arm; a second detent extending outwardly from the arm and positioned below the first detent; A terminal position assurance member comprising:

11. The terminal position assurance member of claim 10 wherein the terminal retaining base includes a terminal retaining surface for receiving a terminal.

12. 12. The terminal position assurance member of claim 11, wherein said terminal retaining base includes terminal retaining arms adjacent said terminal retaining surfaces for retaining said terminals.

13. 13. The terminal position assurance member of claim 12, wherein said terminal retaining arm includes a sloped surface extending to a rear wall of said terminal retaining arm.

14. A terminal position assurance device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the device is completely within the housing and retains the terminal.

15. 15. The terminal position assurance member of claim 14, wherein a bottom edge of said second detent engages said housing to retain a terminal.

16. 1. A method of retaining a terminal in a connector, comprising: providing a terminal position assurance member in a first aperture of the housing, the terminal position assurance member having an upper portion disposed toward an interior surface of the housing; providing a first detent of said terminal position assurance member in a second aperture of said housing; bending inwardly an arm extending downwardly from the upper portion of the terminal position assurance member; extending a second detent of said terminal position assurance member into said second aperture; receiving said terminal position assurance member entirely within said housing; A method comprising:

17. The method of claim 16 further comprising receiving the housing in a second housing.

18. further comprising aligning a bottom surface of the arm with an upper surface of a retaining wall of the housing; the second aperture is bounded by the retaining wall; 18. The method of claim 16 or 17.

19. 18. The method of claim 16 or 17, further comprising aligning a terminal contact surface of the terminal position assurance member with a terminal contact surface of the housing.

20. a terminal retaining arm extending to a first height above a second height of the terminal contact surface; The terminal holding arm exerts a force on the terminal to prevent the terminal from being pulled out.

20. The method of claim 19.

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