Tuning Fork Terminal Hollowed Connection Surface

The patent applies local quality by creating a hollowed connection end surface at the specific location where the press fit piece connects to the connecting portion, while maintaining the overall plate thickness for sufficient holding force. This localized hollowing reduces stress concentration at the connection point, allowing the press fit piece to flex more easily during insertion and extraction without compromising the overall structural integrity and holding force of the terminal.

The patent resolves this contradiction by transitioning from a one-dimensional solution (increasing length) to a two-dimensional solution (modifying surface geometry). The hollowed connection end surface creates an arc-shaped curved surface that allows the press fit piece to bend more easily, achieving reduced insertion force without extending the length of the press fit piece. This dimensional change in the connection surface geometry provides the necessary flexibility while maintaining compact terminal dimensions.

The hollowed connection end surface acts as a stress cushioning feature that absorbs and distributes the forces applied during insertion and extraction. By creating this hollowed region before the actual contact between the tuning fork terminal and mating terminal occurs, the design prepares the structure to handle mechanical stresses, allowing high contact pressure for reliable electrical connection while reducing the force required for insertion and extraction operations.