Terminal Insert Portion Arc Discharge and Deformation Control

The contact structure is segmented into multiple contact points including a first contact point, second contact point, third contact point, and fourth contact point. These contact points are distributed across different locations on the terminal fitting, with the first and second contact points forming a first contact pair and the third and fourth contact points forming a second contact pair. This segmentation allows arc discharge to occur at dedicated sacrificial contact points (third and fourth) rather than at the primary contact points (first and second), protecting the main contacts while managing hot plugging effects.

The third contact point and fourth contact point act as intermediary sacrificial contact points that absorb the harmful arc discharge during hot plugging operations. These intermediary contacts are positioned to engage before the primary contacts, serving as a buffer that protects the main contact structure from damage while still enabling electrical connection functionality.

The front frame structure employs asymmetric reinforcement with a first reinforcing rib and a second reinforcing rib positioned at different locations and orientations. The first reinforcing rib extends from the front end of the upper plate toward the first contact point, while the second reinforcing rib extends from the front end of the lower plate toward the second contact point. This asymmetric reinforcement pattern provides targeted structural support to prevent oblique insertion deformation while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.

The reinforcing ribs add a third dimensional element to the otherwise planar terminal fitting structure. By extending ribs in the longitudinal direction from the front end plates toward the contact points, the structure gains enhanced stiffness and resistance to oblique forces without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity. This dimensional addition transforms a flat, deformable structure into a three-dimensionally reinforced framework.