EP0211735B1 - Shape-memory material coupling for the connection of electrical-contact areas - Google Patents

Shape-memory material coupling for the connection of electrical-contact areas Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0211735B1
EP0211735B1 EP86401597A EP86401597A EP0211735B1 EP 0211735 B1 EP0211735 B1 EP 0211735B1 EP 86401597 A EP86401597 A EP 86401597A EP 86401597 A EP86401597 A EP 86401597A EP 0211735 B1 EP0211735 B1 EP 0211735B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sleeve
shape state
coupling according
electrical
connection
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP86401597A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0211735A1 (en
Inventor
Michel De Mendez
Jean-Jacques Negre
Gérard Guenin
Guy Herubel
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FCI France SA
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Souriau et Cie
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Publication of EP0211735A1 publication Critical patent/EP0211735A1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/01—Connections using shape memory materials, e.g. shape memory metal

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a connector for electrical connection made of a shape memory material.
  • connection devices or fittings for electrical connection usually used, most often consist of metal rings or sleeves intended, after engagement on two conductive areas to be connected, to effect mechanical maintenance and electrical contact thereof. Most often, the aforementioned mechanical maintenance and electrical contact are ensured by means of the sleeve by crimping or deformation thereof. Crimping results in significant deformation of the sleeve and fittings of this type can generally only be used once due to the significant deformations of the sleeve introduced by crimping, which do not allow the elasticity and initial malleability of the sleeve.
  • connection-disconnection cycles require, in order to obtain a suitable implementation of several connection-disconnection cycles, the application for the return to the expanded state of an external mechanical force or constraint. to the sleeve capable of bringing the latter into an expanded state and the conductive zones into a state of mechanical non-maintenance or absence of electrical contact.
  • an elastic element or auxiliary spring consisting of a split metal ring concentric with the sleeve and in contact with it is provided in order to ensure the reusable connector function for substantially all types of conductive zones compatible with the dimensions of the sleeve-spring assembly.
  • this consisting of a simple sleeve can only be used in the presence of one of the conductive zones to be connected capable of exerting the external force capable of bringing the sleeve in expanded condition.
  • one of the conductive zones has a radial elasticity with respect to the sleeve and is constituted by a spring or a winding.
  • the present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks by the implementation of a connector for electrical connection allowing multiple reuse, regardless of the type of conductive areas or conductors to be connected.
  • Another object of the present invention is the implementation of a connector for electrical connection, allowing multiple re-uses in the absence of any elastic system or auxiliary spring.
  • Another object of the present invention is also the implementation of a connector for electrical connection capable of being mounted to ensure the connection after the actual production of the wiring of the corresponding conductive contact areas.
  • the connector for electrical contact connection object of the invention, is remarkable in that it is formed by a split sleeve made of shape memory material.
  • the sleeve is capable of occupying a first shape memory state corresponding substantially to the initial shape state thereof, being in which the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact areas is ensured.
  • the sleeve is capable of occupying a second state of shape memory obtained by local modification of at least one zone of the structure of the sleeve, state in which the introduction tion and / or free clearance of the electrical contact zones in the central zone of the sleeve can be carried out.
  • the transition from one to the other of the shape memory states is reversible and obtained by modifying the temperature of at least one local area of the structure of the sleeve.
  • the invention finds application for the connection of electrical cables of any shape such as cables with conductors of circular section, flat cables, connector contacts and their connection elements.
  • the connector object of the invention is formed by a split sleeve 1 of shape memory material.
  • the sleeve is capable of occupying a first shape memory state, denoted I, corresponding substantially to the initial shape state of the sleeve. In this first state, the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact areas to be connected are ensured.
  • the sleeve 1 is capable of occupying a second state of shape memory denoted II obtained by local modification of at least one zone of the structure of the sleeve. In this second state, the introduction and / or free disengagement of the electrical contact zones in the central zone of the sleeve can be carried out.
  • the transition from one to the other of the shape memory states is reversible and obtained by modifying the temperature of at least one local area of the structure of the sleeve.
  • the term “local area of the structure of the sleeve” is understood to mean, for example, the sleeve being substantially cylindrical, one of the generating lines of the surface of the sleeve, it being possible for the passage from one of the states of shape memory to be obtained by modifying the temperature of one or more of these local areas, or even of all of these, the entire sleeve being thus brought to the same temperature variations.
  • a connector according to the invention has been made, comprising 4% aluminum, 28% zinc and the rest of the percentage in copper.
  • the first shape memory state 1 is stable at room temperature and / or at the operating temperature of the electrical connection.
  • this first state of shape memory is stable at low temperature, that is to say up to the lowest temperature provided for in the specifications defining the field of use of this type of fitting.
  • the first state of shape memory is thus chosen stable up to a temperature of the order of -65 ° C.
  • the second shape memory state is obtained when the temperature of at least one local area of the structure of the sleeve or of the whole of the latter is brought to a temperature below the transition temperature Ms of the material constituting the sleeve.
  • the transition temperature Ms of the alloy under consideration is close to -80 ° C.
  • the transition from one to the other of the shape memory states denoted I and II can be obtained by means of any cold source, the thermal inertia of the sleeve at the temperature below the transition temperature being sufficient for allow operations to engage and / or disengage the electrical contact areas in the central area of the sleeve.
  • the sleeve in its first shape memory state is wound in a configuration such that the edges of the slot 10 are disjoined, the walls of the sleeve ensuring in the vicinity of the edges of the slot a covering and the sleeve being at least partially wound in contiguous spiral.
  • This embodiment appears particularly advantageous for the connection of electrical contact zones or conductors of substantially circular section.
  • the sleeve in its first shape memory state can have an oblong or flattened shape, the edges of the slot being disjoint and the walls of the sleeve ensuring in the vicinity of the edges of the slot also a recovery.
  • This embodiment appears more particularly suitable for the connection of cables of the flat cable type.
  • the internal walls of the sleeve are smooth. This feature allows, in the case of cable connection having beyond their bare connection part an insulating sheath, a suitable covering of this sheath, without however causing deterioration thereof.
  • the sleeve may also include a conductive protective coating, consisting of a layer of gold, silver, palladium alloy, a tin-lead compound or by titanium.
  • the protective coating may further comprise an appropriate undercoat.
  • the operating mode allowing suitable use of the connector which is the subject of the invention will now be described by means of FIGS. 2a and 2b.
  • the sleeve 1 being in its initial shape memory state 1, the latter is brought into its shape memory state II by means of a cold source or a tool capable of lowering the temperature of the sleeve below of its transition temperature Ms.
  • the edges of the slot 10 are preferably separated and the central zone of the sleeve is sufficiently open so as to allow the introduction of electrical or conductive contact zones 2 and 3, of suitable cross section in the central zone of the sleeve 1.
  • the return of the sleeve to its initial temperature or ambient temperature also allows the return to the state of memory of form I, the electrical contact and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact zones 2 and 3 are thus insured.
  • the opening of the slot 10 when the sleeve is in its form II memory state can be chosen to be sufficient, so as to advantageously allow the sleeve to be placed on electrical contact zones, previously wired.
  • a flattened sleeve has also been shown in its shape I memory state, the contact areas being either conductors of circular section, or conductors of the flat cable type.
  • connection element 5 being placed on the rear part 4 of the connector contact, the sleeve 1 brought into its form state II as described above, the opening of the slot being sufficient, is placed at the junction between the connector contact 4 and the connection element 5.
  • the junction zone is placed in the central zone of the open sleeve.
  • the return to ambient or operating temperature of the connector brings the sleeve back to its first state of shape I memory, state in which the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact zones constituted by the contact 4 and the connection element 5 are thus insured.
  • the sleeve 1 is in its shape memory position 1 wound in a configuration such that the edges of the slot 10 are substantially contiguous.
  • connection element 5 in the vicinity of the sleeve, can be provided with sharp-angled facets and the edges of the central zone of the sleeve can be adapted to the corresponding section of the part of the connection element and / or of the rear part of the connection contact.
  • the edges of the sleeve 1, other than those which define the slot 10 are provided with indentations, slots or slots 100, so as to allow the deformation of the sleeve 1 and passing from the first shape memory state to the second shape memory state, the sleeve body working in flexion.
  • the body of the sleeve 1 comprises, with respect to a transverse plane of symmetry P of the sleeve, at least one inclined part 101 forming facet with respect to the central part 102 of the sleeve body.
  • the facet (s) 101 are placed symmetrically with respect to the plane P and arranged between the slots 100 and the central part 102 of the body of the sleeve.
  • the aforementioned application is particularly advantageous for making connections for connectors of the hermetic connector type, in which the usual techniques of connection cannot be easily used because of the volume available for implementing the connector or because of the conditions of use of it, the material in which the contacts are made does not have sufficient characteristics to withstand the deformations generated during connection.
  • An example of implementation of a connector according to the invention will now be described with the aid of FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c.
  • connection can be obtained from a sheet of the aforementioned alloy cut into a strip of suitable size, this sheet being noted 20.
  • the teeth or slots 100 shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b are necessary , these can be produced by cutting on the corresponding edges of the strip 20 then the latter can be folded so as to form the facets or inclined parts 101.
  • the strip 20 is then subjected to a mechanical treatment by rolling noted R, so as to constitute the split sleeve and to bring the latter to the final shapes and dimensions constituting the first state 1 of shape memory, as shown in FIG. 4b.
  • the sleeve 1 is then subjected to a heat treatment capable of bringing it into a state of crystallographic phase of the austenitic type and then to a cooling at a temperature close to room temperature.
  • cooling is meant cooling such as that obtained by means of a soaking type treatment for example, so as to avoid the appearance of parasitic crystallographic phase.
  • the sleeve 1 is then subjected in at least one deformation zone thereof, mainly in one or more generating lines of the wall of the sleeve to a process called education.
  • the deformation zone is denoted 101.
  • the education process consists in repeatedly imposing on the deformation zone 101, or the plurality of these, a mechanical stress such that the sleeve is in its deformation deformation zones so as to bring the latter into a position of form close to the second form II memory state, and to subject the assembly, the stress being maintained, to a lowering of temperature capable of bringing the deformation zone (s) 101 or possibly the assembly of the sleeve 1 into a state of martensitic phase.
  • the lowering of temperature can be carried out by means of any cold source applied either to the whole of the sleeve, or only at the level of the deformation zones 101.
  • the mechanical stress can be applied by means of a tool allowing a spacing enough of the edges of the slot 10 until the desired shape memory position II is obtained.
  • the connector according to the invention After removal of the mechanical stress, the connector according to the invention is subjected to a gradual heating to room temperature. It then resumes its stable shape state or first shape memory state.
  • the repetition of the cycle imposed for education as defined above, must be sufficient to obtain a good degree of reproducibility of the transitions between the first and second subsequent shape memory states by lowering the temperature only, then by a successive rise the temperature for returning to the original shape memory position or state.
  • connection elements of substantially similar shape can also be obtained from shape memory materials delivered in the form of rods, cylindrical ingots or the like by milling or by conventional machining operation.
  • the education process previously described can if necessary be carried out in so-called complementary logic, that is to say in an education process in which the temperature variations for the transition from state I to l shape memory state They are inverted, the corresponding shape memory state positions being if necessary themselves inverted.
  • the protective coating can preferably be applied to the educated material by any conventional means by electrodeposition or possibly prior to the education process.

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  • Connections Effected By Soldering, Adhesion, Or Permanent Deformation (AREA)

Description

La présente invention est relative à un raccord pour connexion électrique constitué en un matériau à mémoire de forme.The present invention relates to a connector for electrical connection made of a shape memory material.

Les dispositifs de raccordement ou raccord pour connexion électrique habituellement utilisés, sont constitués le plus souvent par des anneaux ou manchons métalliques destinés, après engagement sur deux zones conductrices à raccorder, à effecter le maintien mécanique et le contact électrique de celles-ci. Le plus souvent, le maintien mécanique et le contact électrique précités sont assurés au moyen du manchon par sertissage ou déformation de celui-ci. Le sertissage a pour effet une déformation importante du manchon et les raccords de ce type ne peuvent en général être utilisés qu'une fois en raison des déformations importantes du manchon introduites par le sertissage, lesquelles ne permettent pas de réutiliser les propriétés d'élasticité et de malléabilité initiales du manchon.The connection devices or fittings for electrical connection usually used, most often consist of metal rings or sleeves intended, after engagement on two conductive areas to be connected, to effect mechanical maintenance and electrical contact thereof. Most often, the aforementioned mechanical maintenance and electrical contact are ensured by means of the sleeve by crimping or deformation thereof. Crimping results in significant deformation of the sleeve and fittings of this type can generally only be used once due to the significant deformations of the sleeve introduced by crimping, which do not allow the elasticity and initial malleability of the sleeve.

Des travaux récents en ce domaine ont cependant permis l'utilisation des matériaux à mémoire de forme afin de rendre possible des réutilisations successives de ce type de matériel. On a ainsi envisagé de constituer le manchon constituant le raccord ou une partie de celui-ci en un matériau à mémoire de forme, c'est-à-dire en un matériau capable de conférer à ce manchon la propriété d'occuper, selon la valeur de sa température par rapport à la température de transition du matériau constitutif de celui-ci, deux états de forme correspondant sensiblement à un état expansé du manchon dans lequel la connexion électrique et le maintien mécanique des zones de contact n'est pas assuré et à un état rétracté ou non expansé du manchon dans lequel la connexion électrique et le maintien mécanique des zones de contact sont au contraire assurés.Recent work in this area has, however, enabled the use of shape memory materials in order to make it possible to successively reuse this type of material. It has thus been envisaged to constitute the sleeve constituting the fitting or a part of it in a shape memory material, that is to say in a material capable of giving this sleeve the property of occupying, according to the value of its temperature with respect to the transition temperature of the material from which it is made, two shape states corresponding substantially to an expanded state of the sleeve in which the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the contact zones is not ensured and in a retracted or unexpanded state of the sleeve in which the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the contact zones are on the contrary ensured.

Ces types de raccord ont été décrits notamment dans la publication Research Disclosure n° 212, Décembre 1981, page 442 abstract n° 21237, Havant Hampshire, GB article intitulé "Method of attaching coiled leads to electrodes or electrodes pins" ou dans la demande de brevet européen EP-A-0 112 618.These types of connection have been described in particular in the publication Research Disclosure n ° 212, December 1981, page 442 abstract n ° 21237, Havant Hampshire, GB article entitled "Method of attaching coiled leads to electrodes or electrodes pins" or in the request for European patent EP-A-0 112 618.

Toutefois, ces types de raccord décrits dans les documents précités nécessitent impérativement, afin d'obtenir une mise en oeuvre convenable de plusieurs cycles de connexion-déconnexion, l'application pour le retour à l'état expansé d'une force ou contrainte mécanique externe au manchon capable de ramener celui-ci en état de forme expansé et les zones conductrices en état de non maintien mécanique ou d'absence de contact électrique.However, these types of connection described in the aforementioned documents imperatively require, in order to obtain a suitable implementation of several connection-disconnection cycles, the application for the return to the expanded state of an external mechanical force or constraint. to the sleeve capable of bringing the latter into an expanded state and the conductive zones into a state of mechanical non-maintenance or absence of electrical contact.

En conséquence, en ce qui concerne le raccord du type décrit dans la demande européenne précitée EP-A-0 112 618, un élément élastique ou ressort auxiliaire consistant en un anneau métallique fendu concentrique au manchon et en contact avec celui-ci est prévu afin d'assurer la fonction de raccord réutilisable pour sensiblement tous types de zones conductrices compatibles avec les dimensions de l'ensemble manchon-ressort. En ce qui concerne par contre le raccord du type décrit dans la publication précitée, celui-ci constitué par un simple manchon ne peut être utilisé qu'en présence d'une des zones conductrices à connecter susceptible d'exercer la force externe capable de ramener le manchon en état expansé. Ce type de raccord ne peut donner lieu à une utilisation répétitive que dans le cas où, ainsi que représenté au dessin de la publication précitée, l'une des zones conductrices présente une élasticité radiale par rapport au manchon et est constituée par un ressort ou un bobinage.Consequently, as regards the connector of the type described in the aforementioned European application EP-A-0 112 618, an elastic element or auxiliary spring consisting of a split metal ring concentric with the sleeve and in contact with it is provided in order to ensure the reusable connector function for substantially all types of conductive zones compatible with the dimensions of the sleeve-spring assembly. As regards, on the other hand, the connector of the type described in the abovementioned publication, this consisting of a simple sleeve can only be used in the presence of one of the conductive zones to be connected capable of exerting the external force capable of bringing the sleeve in expanded condition. This type of connection can give rise to repetitive use only in the case where, as shown in the drawing of the abovementioned publication, one of the conductive zones has a radial elasticity with respect to the sleeve and is constituted by a spring or a winding.

Un autre type de raccord a été décrit dans le document GB-A-1 579 734. Ce document décrit notamment un connecteur de conducteurs électriques ans lequel un élément conducteur à mémoire de forme est utilisé. Le connecteur décrit par ce document est constitué d'une bande ou anneau fendu en matériau à mémoire de forme.Another type of connection has been described in document GB-A-1,579,734. This document describes in particular a connector of electrical conductors in which a conductive element with shape memory is used. The connector described by this document consists of a strip or split ring of shape memory material.

Toutefois, les transitions entre états de forme de ce connecteur ne présentent pas de caractère réversible, ces connecteurs étant essentiellement stockés, avant utilisation, à température ambiante et ramenés à leur état stable, auquel la connexion est assurée, par chauffage, ce qui interdit tout caractère réversible des transitions en raison de l'utilisation de ces connecteurs, à l'état connecté, à température ambiante, le retour à la forme initiale non connecté avant utilisation devant impérativement être évité lors du retour du connecteur, connecté, à la température ambiante, sauf à prévoir indéfiniment le maintien d'une source de chaleur à l'utilisation.However, the transitions between states of form of this connector do not have a reversible character, these connectors being essentially stored, before use, at room temperature and brought back to their stable state, to which the connection is ensured, by heating, which prohibits any reversibility of the transitions due to the use of these connectors, in the connected state, at room temperature, the return to the initial shape not connected before use must imperatively be avoided when the connector, connected, at room temperature is returned , except to provide indefinitely the maintenance of a heat source during use.

La présente invention a pour but de remédier aux inconvénients précités par la mise en oeuvre d'un raccord pour connexion électrique permettant des réutilisations multiples, quel que soit le type de zones conductrices ou conducteurs à connecter.The present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks by the implementation of a connector for electrical connection allowing multiple reuse, regardless of the type of conductive areas or conductors to be connected.

Un autre objet de la présente invention est la mise en oeuvre d'un raccord pour connexion électrique, permettant des réutilisations multiples en l'absence de tout système élastique ou ressort auxiliaire.Another object of the present invention is the implementation of a connector for electrical connection, allowing multiple re-uses in the absence of any elastic system or auxiliary spring.

Un autre objet de la présente invention est en outre la mise en oeuvre d'un raccord pour connexion électrique susceptible d'être monté pour assurer la connexion postérieurement à la réalisation proprement dite du câblage des zones conductrices de contact correspondantes.Another object of the present invention is also the implementation of a connector for electrical connection capable of being mounted to ensure the connection after the actual production of the wiring of the corresponding conductive contact areas.

Le raccord pour connexion de contact électrique, objet de l'invention, est remarquable en ce qu'il est formé par un manchon fendu en matériau à mémoire de forme. Le manchon est susceptible d'occuper un premier état de mémoire de forme correspondant sensiblement à l'état de forme initial de celui-ci, étant dans lequel la connexion électrique et le maintien mécanique des zones de contact électrique est assuré. En outre, le manchon est susceptible d'occuper un deuxième état de mémoire de forme obtenu par modification locale d'au moins une zone de la structure du manchon, état dans lequel l'introduction et/ou le dégagement libre des zones de contact électrique en zone centrale du manchon peuvent être effectués. Le passage de l'un à l'autre des états de mémoire de forme est réversible et obtenu par modification de la température d'au moins une zone locale de la structure du manchon.The connector for electrical contact connection, object of the invention, is remarkable in that it is formed by a split sleeve made of shape memory material. The sleeve is capable of occupying a first shape memory state corresponding substantially to the initial shape state thereof, being in which the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact areas is ensured. In addition, the sleeve is capable of occupying a second state of shape memory obtained by local modification of at least one zone of the structure of the sleeve, state in which the introduction tion and / or free clearance of the electrical contact zones in the central zone of the sleeve can be carried out. The transition from one to the other of the shape memory states is reversible and obtained by modifying the temperature of at least one local area of the structure of the sleeve.

L'invention trouve application pour la connexion de câbles électriques de toute forme tels que câbles à conducteurs de section circulaire, câbles plats, contacts de connecteurs et leurs éléments de raccordement.The invention finds application for the connection of electrical cables of any shape such as cables with conductors of circular section, flat cables, connector contacts and their connection elements.

Elle sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description et à l'observation des dessins ci-après dans lesquels:

  • - Les figures 1a et 1b représentent deux modes de réalisation avantageux du raccord objet de l'invention,
  • - les figures 2a et 2b représentent, à titre d'exemple non limitatif les raccords tels que représentés en figure 1 a et 1 b dans leur utilisation au raccord de câble d'un type donné,
  • . Les figures 3a et 3b représentent respectivement en perspective et en coupe longitudinale une application particulièrement avantageuse d'un raccord objet de l'invention à la connexion de la partie arrière d'un contact de connecteur et d'un élément de raccordement de ce contact,
  • - Les figures 4a, 4b, 4c représentent un mode opératoire particulièrement avantageux, permettant la réalisation de raccords conformément à l'invention.
It will be better understood on reading the description and on observing the drawings below in which:
  • FIGS. 1a and 1b represent two advantageous embodiments of the connector which is the subject of the invention,
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b represent, by way of nonlimiting example the connectors as shown in FIG. 1a and 1b in their use with the cable connector of a given type,
  • . FIGS. 3a and 3b respectively represent in perspective and in longitudinal section a particularly advantageous application of a connector object of the invention to the connection of the rear part of a connector contact and of a connection element of this contact,
  • - Figures 4a, 4b, 4c show a particularly advantageous operating mode, allowing the production of fittings according to the invention.

Le raccord pour connexion de zones de contact électrique, objet de la présente invention, sera tout d'abord décrit en liaison avec les figures 1 a et 1 b.The connector for connection of electrical contact areas, object of the present invention, will first be described in connection with Figures 1a and 1b.

Ainsi que représenté sur les figures précitées, le raccord objet de l'invention est formé par un manchon fendu 1 en matériau à mémoire de forme. Le manchon est susceptible d'occuper un premier état de mémoire de forme, noté I, correspondant sensiblement à l'état de forme initial du manchon. Dans ce premier état, la connexion électrique et le maintien mécanique des zones de contact électrique à raccorder sont assurés. En outre, le manchon 1 est susceptible d'occuper un deuxième état de mémoire de forme noté Il obtenu par modification locale d'au moins une zone de la structure du manchon. Dans ce deuxième état, l'introduction et/ou le dégagement libre des zones de contact électrique en zone centrale du manchon peuvent être effectués. Le passage de l'un à l'autre des états de mémoire de forme est réversible et obtenu par modification de la température d'au moins une zone locale de la structure du manchon. Par zone locale de la structure du manchon, on entend par exemple, le manchon étant sensiblement cylindrique, une des lignes génératrices de la surface du manchon, le passage de l'un à l'autre des états de mémoire de forme pouvant bien entendu être obtenu par modification de la température d'une ou plusieurs de ces zones locales, ou même de la totalité de celles-ci, l'ensemble du manchon étant ainsi porté aux mêmes variations de température.As shown in the above figures, the connector object of the invention is formed by a split sleeve 1 of shape memory material. The sleeve is capable of occupying a first shape memory state, denoted I, corresponding substantially to the initial shape state of the sleeve. In this first state, the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact areas to be connected are ensured. In addition, the sleeve 1 is capable of occupying a second state of shape memory denoted II obtained by local modification of at least one zone of the structure of the sleeve. In this second state, the introduction and / or free disengagement of the electrical contact zones in the central zone of the sleeve can be carried out. The transition from one to the other of the shape memory states is reversible and obtained by modifying the temperature of at least one local area of the structure of the sleeve. The term “local area of the structure of the sleeve” is understood to mean, for example, the sleeve being substantially cylindrical, one of the generating lines of the surface of the sleeve, it being possible for the passage from one of the states of shape memory to be obtained by modifying the temperature of one or more of these local areas, or even of all of these, the entire sleeve being thus brought to the same temperature variations.

A titre d'exemple non limitatif, des essais de mise en oeuvre du raccord objet de l'invention, ont conduit à choisir le matériau à mémoire de forme dans les composés métalliques du groupe nickel-titane, nickel-titane-fer, cuivre-zinc-aluminium, cuivre-aluminium-nickel, nickel-aluminium. Ces matériaux peuvent être utilisés sous forme de composés intermétalliques ou sous forme alliée.By way of nonlimiting example, tests of implementation of the fitting which is the subject of the invention have led to choosing the shape memory material in the metallic compounds of the nickel-titanium, nickel-titanium-iron, copper- group. zinc-aluminum, copper-aluminum-nickel, nickel-aluminum. These materials can be used in the form of intermetallic compounds or in alloyed form.

A titre d'exemple particulier avantageux, un raccord conforme à l'invention a pu être réalisé, comportant 4% d'aluminium, 28% de zinc et le reste du pourcentage en cuivre. Dans l'exemple précité, il faut indiquer que le premier état à mémoire de forme 1 est stable à la température ambiante et/ou à la température de fonctionnement de la connexion électrique. Bien entendu, ce premier état de mémoire de forme est stable à basse température, c'est-à-dire jusqu'à la température la plus basse prévue au cahier des charges définissant le domaine d'utilisation de ce type de raccord. Le premier état de mémoire de forme est ainsi choisi stable jusqu'à une température de l'ordre de -65°C. Le deuxième état de mémoire de forme est obtenu lorsque la température d'au moins une zone locale de la structure du manchon ou de la totalité de celui-ci est amenée à une température inférieure à la température de transition Ms du matériau constituant le manchon. Dans l'exemple précité, la température de transition Ms de l'alliage considéré est voisine de -80°C. Le passage de l'un à l'autre des états de mémoire de forme notés I et Il peut être obtenu par le moyen de toute source de froid, l'inertie thermique du manchon à la température inférieure à la température de transition étant suffisante pour permettre les opérations d'engagement et/ou de dégagement des zones de contact électrique en zone centrale du manchon.As a particular advantageous example, a connector according to the invention has been made, comprising 4% aluminum, 28% zinc and the rest of the percentage in copper. In the above example, it should be indicated that the first shape memory state 1 is stable at room temperature and / or at the operating temperature of the electrical connection. Of course, this first state of shape memory is stable at low temperature, that is to say up to the lowest temperature provided for in the specifications defining the field of use of this type of fitting. The first state of shape memory is thus chosen stable up to a temperature of the order of -65 ° C. The second shape memory state is obtained when the temperature of at least one local area of the structure of the sleeve or of the whole of the latter is brought to a temperature below the transition temperature Ms of the material constituting the sleeve. In the above example, the transition temperature Ms of the alloy under consideration is close to -80 ° C. The transition from one to the other of the shape memory states denoted I and II can be obtained by means of any cold source, the thermal inertia of the sleeve at the temperature below the transition temperature being sufficient for allow operations to engage and / or disengage the electrical contact areas in the central area of the sleeve.

Ainsi que représenté en figure 1a, le manchon dans son premier état de mémoire de forme, noté I, est enroulé en une configuration telle que les bords de la fente 10 sont disjoints, les parois du manchon assurant au voisinage des bords de la fente un recouvrement et le manchon étant au moins partiellement enroulé en spirale jointive. Ce mode de réalisation apparaît particulièrement avantageux pour la connexion de zones de contact électrique ou conducteurs de section sensiblement circulaire.As shown in FIG. 1a, the sleeve in its first shape memory state, denoted I, is wound in a configuration such that the edges of the slot 10 are disjoined, the walls of the sleeve ensuring in the vicinity of the edges of the slot a covering and the sleeve being at least partially wound in contiguous spiral. This embodiment appears particularly advantageous for the connection of electrical contact zones or conductors of substantially circular section.

Selon le mode de réalisation de la figure 1b, le manchon dans son premier état de mémoire de forme peut présenter une forme oblongue ou aplatie, les bords de la fente étant disjoints et les parois du manchon assurant au voisinage des bords de la fente également un recouvrement. Ce mode de réalisation apparaît plus particulièrement adapté pour la connexion de câbles du type câbles plats.According to the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the sleeve in its first shape memory state can have an oblong or flattened shape, the edges of the slot being disjoint and the walls of the sleeve ensuring in the vicinity of the edges of the slot also a recovery. This embodiment appears more particularly suitable for the connection of cables of the flat cable type.

De préférence, mais de manière non limitative, les parois internes du manchon sont lisses. Cette particularité permet, dans le cas de la connexion de câbles comportant au delà de leur partie de raccordement dénudée une gaine isolante, un recouvrement convenable de cette gaine, sans toutefois provoquer de détérioration de celle-ci.Preferably, but not limited to, the internal walls of the sleeve are smooth. This feature allows, in the case of cable connection having beyond their bare connection part an insulating sheath, a suitable covering of this sheath, without however causing deterioration thereof.

Afin d'assurer une meilleure tenue au vieillissement et aux agents extérieurs, le manchon peut également comporter un revêtement protecteur conducteur, constitué par une couche d'or, d'argent, d'alliage de palladium, un composé étain-plomb ou par du titane. Le revêtement protecteur peut comporter en outre une sous-couche appropriée.In order to ensure better resistance to aging and to external agents, the sleeve may also include a conductive protective coating, consisting of a layer of gold, silver, palladium alloy, a tin-lead compound or by titanium. The protective coating may further comprise an appropriate undercoat.

Le mode opératoire permettant une utilisation convenable du raccord objet de l'invention, sera maintenant décrit au moyen des figures 2a et 2b. Le manchon 1 étant dans son état de mémoires de forme initial 1, celui-ci est amené dans son état de mémoire de forme Il au moyen d'une source de froid ou d'un outil capable d'abaisser la température du manchon en deçà de sa température de transition Ms. Dans son état de mémoire de forme Il, les bords de la fente 10 sont de préférence disjoints et la zone centrale du manchon est suffisamment ouverte de façon à permettre l'introduction de zones de contact électrique ou conducteurs 2 et 3, de section convenable en zone centrale du manchon 1. Le retour du manchon à sa température initiale ou température ambiante permet également le retour à l'état de mémoire de forme I, le contact électrique et le maintien mécanique des zones de contact électrique 2 et 3 étant ainsi assurés. Bien entendu, l'ouverture de la fente 10 lorsque le manchon est dans son état de mémoire de forme II, peut être choisie suffisante, de façon à permettre, de manière avantageuse, la mise en place du manchon sur des zones de contact électrique, préalablement câblés. Dans le cas de la figure 2b, on a représenté également un manchon aplati dans son état de mémoire de forme I, les zones de contact pouvant être soit des conducteurs de section circulaire, soit des conducteurs du type câbles plats.The operating mode allowing suitable use of the connector which is the subject of the invention will now be described by means of FIGS. 2a and 2b. The sleeve 1 being in its initial shape memory state 1, the latter is brought into its shape memory state II by means of a cold source or a tool capable of lowering the temperature of the sleeve below of its transition temperature Ms. In its shape memory state II, the edges of the slot 10 are preferably separated and the central zone of the sleeve is sufficiently open so as to allow the introduction of electrical or conductive contact zones 2 and 3, of suitable cross section in the central zone of the sleeve 1. The return of the sleeve to its initial temperature or ambient temperature also allows the return to the state of memory of form I, the electrical contact and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact zones 2 and 3 are thus insured. Of course, the opening of the slot 10 when the sleeve is in its form II memory state can be chosen to be sufficient, so as to advantageously allow the sleeve to be placed on electrical contact zones, previously wired. In the case of FIG. 2b, a flattened sleeve has also been shown in its shape I memory state, the contact areas being either conductors of circular section, or conductors of the flat cable type.

Une description particulièrement avantageuse d'une application du raccord objet de l'invention à la connexion de la partie arrière 4 d'un connecteur à un élément de raccordement du type queue de connexion enroulée 5, connue sous le vocable anglo-saxon "queue à wrapper" sera maintenant décrite en liaison avec les figures 3a et 3b.A particularly advantageous description of an application of the connector which is the subject of the invention to the connection of the rear part 4 of a connector to a connection element of the coiled connection tail type 5, known by the English term "tail with wrapper "will now be described in connection with FIGS. 3a and 3b.

L'élément de raccordement 5 étant placé sur la partie arrière 4 du contact de connecteur, le manchon 1 amené dans son état de forme Il ainsi que décrit précédemment, l'ouverture de la fente étant suffisante, est placé au niveau de la jonction entre le contact de connecteur 4 et l'élément de raccordement 5. La zone de jonction est placée dans la zone centrale du manchon ouvert. Le retour à la température ambiante ou de fonctionnement du connecteur ramène le manchon dans son premier état de mémoire de forme I, état dans lequel la connexion électrique et le maintien mécanique des zones de contact électrique constitués par le contact 4 et l'élément de raccordement 5 sont ainsi assurés. De préférence, le manchon 1 est dans sa position de mémoire de forme 1 enroulé en une configuration telle que les bords de la fente 10 sont sensiblement jointifs.The connection element 5 being placed on the rear part 4 of the connector contact, the sleeve 1 brought into its form state II as described above, the opening of the slot being sufficient, is placed at the junction between the connector contact 4 and the connection element 5. The junction zone is placed in the central zone of the open sleeve. The return to ambient or operating temperature of the connector brings the sleeve back to its first state of shape I memory, state in which the electrical connection and the mechanical maintenance of the electrical contact zones constituted by the contact 4 and the connection element 5 are thus insured. Preferably, the sleeve 1 is in its shape memory position 1 wound in a configuration such that the edges of the slot 10 are substantially contiguous.

Afin d'éviter toute rotation possible de l'élément de raccordement 5 par rapport au contact 4, l'élément de raccordement 5, au voisinage du manchon, peut être muni de facettes à angle vif et les bords de la zone centrale du manchon peuvent être adaptés à la section correspondante de la partie de l'élément de raccordement et/ou de la partie arrière du contact de connexion.In order to avoid any possible rotation of the connection element 5 relative to the contact 4, the connection element 5, in the vicinity of the sleeve, can be provided with sharp-angled facets and the edges of the central zone of the sleeve can be adapted to the corresponding section of the part of the connection element and / or of the rear part of the connection contact.

Dans ce but, ainsi que représenté en outre en figures 3a et 3b, les bords du manchon 1, autres que ceux qui définissent la fente 10, sont munis d'indentations, créneaux ou fentes 100, de façon à permettre la déformation du manchon 1 et le passage du premier état de mémoire de forme au deuxième état de mémoire de forme, le corps de manchon travaillant en flexion.For this purpose, as also shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b, the edges of the sleeve 1, other than those which define the slot 10, are provided with indentations, slots or slots 100, so as to allow the deformation of the sleeve 1 and passing from the first shape memory state to the second shape memory state, the sleeve body working in flexion.

De même, afin d'assurer une meilleure cohésion mécanique et un meilleur contact électrique entre les parties 4 et 5 à raccorder, le corps du manchon 1 comporte par rapport à un plan de symétrie transversal P du manchon, au moins une partie inclinée 101 formant facette par rapport à la partie centrale 102 du corps du manchon. La ou les facettes 101 sont placées symétriquement par rapport au plan P et disposées entre les créneaux 100 et la partie centrale 102 du corps du manchon.Similarly, in order to ensure better mechanical cohesion and better electrical contact between the parts 4 and 5 to be connected, the body of the sleeve 1 comprises, with respect to a transverse plane of symmetry P of the sleeve, at least one inclined part 101 forming facet with respect to the central part 102 of the sleeve body. The facet (s) 101 are placed symmetrically with respect to the plane P and arranged between the slots 100 and the central part 102 of the body of the sleeve.

On comprendra qu'au cours du passage de l'état de mémoire de forme Il à l'état 1, le manchon se refermant, les plans inclinés symétriques formés par les facettes 101 ont pour effet, par décomposition des efforts de flexion exercés par le corps de manchon, de provoquer des efforts antagonistes par rapport au plan P sur chaque partie 4 et 5 à connecter, favorisant en cela leur maintien mécanique et la connexion électrique.It will be understood that during the transition from the shape memory state II to state 1, the sleeve closing, the symmetrical inclined planes formed by the facets 101 have the effect, by decomposition of the bending forces exerted by the sleeve body, to cause antagonistic forces with respect to the plane P on each part 4 and 5 to be connected, thereby promoting their mechanical retention and the electrical connection.

L'application précitée est particulièrement avantageuse pour la réalisation de connexions pour connecteurs du type connecteurs hermétique, dans lesquelles, les techniques habituelles du raccordement ne peuvent être facilement utilisées du fait du volume disponible pour mettre en oeuvre le connecteur ou du fait des conditions d'emploi de celui-ci, le matériau dans lequel les contacts sont réalisés ne présentant pas des caractéristiques suffisantes pour supporter les déformations engendrées lors du raccordement. Un exemple de mise en oeuvre d'un raccord conformément à l'invention sera maintenant décrit à l'aide des figures 4a, 4b et 4c.The aforementioned application is particularly advantageous for making connections for connectors of the hermetic connector type, in which the usual techniques of connection cannot be easily used because of the volume available for implementing the connector or because of the conditions of use of it, the material in which the contacts are made does not have sufficient characteristics to withstand the deformations generated during connection. An example of implementation of a connector according to the invention will now be described with the aid of FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c.

Ainsi que représenté en figure 4a, le raccord peut être obtenu à partir d'une feuille d'alliage précité découpée en une bande de dimension convenable, cette feuille étant notée 20. Lorsque les dents ou créneaux 100 représentés en figures 3a et 3b sont nécessaires, celles-ci peuvent être réalisés par découpe sur les bords correspondants de la bande 20 puis celle-ci peut être pliée de façon à former les facettes ou parties inclinées 101. La bande 20 est ensuite soumise à un traitement mécanique par roulage noté R, de façon à constituer le manchon fendu et à amener celui-ci aux formes et dimensions finales constituant le premier état 1 de mémoire de forme, tel que représenté en figure 4b. Le manchon 1 est ensuite soumis à un traitement thermique capable d'amener celui-ci en état de phase cristallographique de type austénitique puis à un refroidissement à une température voisine de la température ambiante. Par refroidissement, on entend un refroidissement tel que celui obtenu au moyen d'un traitement de type trempage par exemple, de façon à éviter l'apparition de phase cristallographique parasite.As shown in FIG. 4a, the connection can be obtained from a sheet of the aforementioned alloy cut into a strip of suitable size, this sheet being noted 20. When the teeth or slots 100 shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b are necessary , these can be produced by cutting on the corresponding edges of the strip 20 then the latter can be folded so as to form the facets or inclined parts 101. The strip 20 is then subjected to a mechanical treatment by rolling noted R, so as to constitute the split sleeve and to bring the latter to the final shapes and dimensions constituting the first state 1 of shape memory, as shown in FIG. 4b. The sleeve 1 is then subjected to a heat treatment capable of bringing it into a state of crystallographic phase of the austenitic type and then to a cooling at a temperature close to room temperature. By cooling is meant cooling such as that obtained by means of a soaking type treatment for example, so as to avoid the appearance of parasitic crystallographic phase.

Le manchon 1 est ensuite soumis en au moins une zone de déformation de celui-ci, principalement en une ou plusieurs lignes génératrices de la paroi du manchon à un processus dit d'éducation. Sur la figure 4b, la zone de déformation est notée 101.The sleeve 1 is then subjected in at least one deformation zone thereof, mainly in one or more generating lines of the wall of the sleeve to a process called education. In FIG. 4b, the deformation zone is denoted 101.

Le processus d'éducation consiste à imposer répétitivement à la zone de déformation 101, ou à la pluralité de celles-ci, une contrainte mécanique telle que le manchon soit dans ses zones de déformation déformé de manière à amener celui-ci dans une position de forme voisine du deuxième état de mémoire de forme II, et à soumettre l'ensemble, la contrainte étant maintenue, à un abaissement de température susceptible d'amener la ou les zones de déformation 101 ou éventuellement l'ensemble du manchon 1 en état de phase martensitique. L'abaissement de température peut être réalisé au moyen de toute source de froid appliquée soit à à l'ensemble du manchon, soit au seul niveau des zones de déformation 101. La contrainte mécanique peut être appliquée au moyen d'un outil permettant un écartement suffisant des bords de la fente 10 jusqu'à obtenir la position de mémoire de forme Il souhaitée.The education process consists in repeatedly imposing on the deformation zone 101, or the plurality of these, a mechanical stress such that the sleeve is in its deformation deformation zones so as to bring the latter into a position of form close to the second form II memory state, and to subject the assembly, the stress being maintained, to a lowering of temperature capable of bringing the deformation zone (s) 101 or possibly the assembly of the sleeve 1 into a state of martensitic phase. The lowering of temperature can be carried out by means of any cold source applied either to the whole of the sleeve, or only at the level of the deformation zones 101. The mechanical stress can be applied by means of a tool allowing a spacing enough of the edges of the slot 10 until the desired shape memory position II is obtained.

Après suppression de la contrainte mécanique, le raccord selon l'invention est soumis à un réchauffement progressif à température ambiante. Il reprend alors son état de forme stable ou premier état de mémoire de forme.After removal of the mechanical stress, the connector according to the invention is subjected to a gradual heating to room temperature. It then resumes its stable shape state or first shape memory state.

La répétition du cycle imposé pour l'éducation telle que définie précédemment, doit être suffisante pour obtenir un bon degré de reproductibilité des transitions entre le premier et le deuxième état de mémoire de forme ultérieurs par seul abaissement de la température, puis par un élévation successive de la température pour le retour à la position ou état de mémoire de forme initial.The repetition of the cycle imposed for education as defined above, must be sufficient to obtain a good degree of reproducibility of the transitions between the first and second subsequent shape memory states by lowering the temperature only, then by a successive rise the temperature for returning to the original shape memory position or state.

Le processus d'éducation précédemment décrit n'est pas limitatif, tout processus d'éducation capable de permettre l'obtention de deux états de mémoire de forme réversible par seule variation de la température, ne sortant pas du cadre de la présente invention.The education process described above is not limitative, any education process capable of allowing the obtaining of two states of memory of reversible form by only variation of the temperature, does not depart from the framework of the present invention.

Le mode de réalisation précédent d'un raccord conforme à l'invention par découpage et roulage n'est bien entendu pas limitatif. Des éléments de raccordement de forme sensiblement analogue peuvent en outre être obtenus à partir de matériaux à mémoire de forme délivrés sous forme de tige, de lingot cylindrique ou analogue par fraisage ou par opération d'usinage conventionnel.The previous embodiment of a connector according to the invention by cutting and rolling is of course not limiting. Connection elements of substantially similar shape can also be obtained from shape memory materials delivered in the form of rods, cylindrical ingots or the like by milling or by conventional machining operation.

De même, le processus d'éducation précédemment décrit, peut si nécessaire être conduit en logique dite complémentée, c'est-à-dire en un processus d'éducation dans lequel les variations de température pour le passage de l'état I à l'état de mémoire de forme Il sont inversées, les positions correspondantes d'état de mémoire de forme étant si nécessaire elles-mêmes inversées.Likewise, the education process previously described, can if necessary be carried out in so-called complementary logic, that is to say in an education process in which the temperature variations for the transition from state I to l shape memory state They are inverted, the corresponding shape memory state positions being if necessary themselves inverted.

On indiquera enfin, à titre d'exemple non limitatif, que le revêtement protecteur peut de préférence être apporté sur le matériau éduqué par tout moyen classique par électrodéposition ou éventuellement préalablement au processus d'éducation.Finally, it will be indicated, by way of nonlimiting example, that the protective coating can preferably be applied to the educated material by any conventional means by electrodeposition or possibly prior to the education process.

Claims (10)

1. An electrical coupling for interconnecting electrical contact zones, the coupling being in the form of a split sleeve (1) of a material having shape memory, characterised in that said sleeve is capable of occupying:
a first memorized shape state (I) corresponding substantially to the initial shape state of the sleeve, said shape being suitable for ensuring electrical and mechanical interconnection of the electrical contact zones; and
a second memorized shape state (11) which is obtained by local modification of at least one zone of the sleeve structure, said shape being suitable for allowing the electrical contact zones to be freely inserted and/or removed from the central zone of the sleeve;
the sleeve being reversibly passable between said shape state by modifying the temperature of at least one local zone of the sleeve structure.
2. A coupling according to claim 1, characterised in that said material having shape memory is constituted by a metal composite selected from the group constituted by: nickel-titanium, nickel-titanium-iron, copper-zinc- aluminum, copper-aluminum-nickel, and nickel- aluminum; said composite being used in the form of an alloy or of an intermetallic compound.
3. A coupling according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that it includes a conductive protective covering constituted by a layer of gold, silver, palladium alloy, tin-lead compound, or titanium, said protective covering further including a suitable undercoat.
4. A coupling according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that said sleeve, when in said first memorized shape state (I) for a ensuring electrical and mechanical interconnection of said electrical contact zones, is wound in a configuration such that the edges of its slot (10) are disjoint, with the walls of said sleeve (I) in the vicinity of the edges of said slot overlapping each other.
5. A coupling according to claim 4, characterised in that the sleeve is additionally substantially flattened in its first memorized shape state (I).
6. A coupling according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the inside walls of the sleeve are smooth.
7. A coupling according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the coupling is for use in connecting the rear portion of a connector (4) contact with a wire-wrap type post (5), said sleeve (I) having a first memorized shape state (I) in which it ensures electrical and mechanical interconnection of the electrical contact zones in which it is wound into a configuration such that the edges of the sleeve (1) slot (10) are substantially in contact with each other.
8. A coupling according to claim 7, characterised in that the central zone (102) of the sleeve (1) when in its first memorized shape state (I) is complementary in section to the rear portion of the connector (4) contact and to the wire-wrap post (5).
9. A coupling according to claim 8, characterised in that the edges of the sleeve (1) other than those which define said slot (10) are provided with notches (100) or indentations suitable for allowing said sleeve to deform and to pass from said first memorized shape state (I) to said second memorized shape state (II) by bending.
10. A coupling according to claim 9, characterised in that the body of the sleeve includes a portion inclined relative to the transverse plane of symmetry thereof, said portion constituting a facet (101) relative to the central portion (102) of the body, and said facet being disposed between said notches (100) and the central portion (102) of the sleeve (1) body.
EP86401597A 1985-07-19 1986-07-17 Shape-memory material coupling for the connection of electrical-contact areas Expired - Lifetime EP0211735B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8511088 1985-07-19
FR8511088A FR2585191B1 (en) 1985-07-19 1985-07-19 FITTING FOR CONNECTION OF ELECTRICAL CONTACT AREAS OF SHAPE MEMORY MATERIAL

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EP0211735A1 EP0211735A1 (en) 1987-02-25
EP0211735B1 true EP0211735B1 (en) 1990-05-16

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EP (1) EP0211735B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS6264074A (en)
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DE2406236C2 (en) * 1974-02-09 1982-05-06 Kabel- und Metallwerke Gutehoffnungshütte AG, 3000 Hannover Connector for coaxial pairs of communication cables
GB1579734A (en) * 1977-03-11 1980-11-26 Raychem Ltd Methods of making electrical connections and connectors for use therein
DE3045700A1 (en) * 1980-12-04 1982-07-08 Schaltbau Gesellschaft mbH, 8000 München ELECTRICAL PLUG
US4487465A (en) * 1981-12-07 1984-12-11 Raychem Corporation Heat recoverable connecting device
US4497527A (en) * 1982-09-30 1985-02-05 Raychem Corporation Supplementary force heat-recoverable connecting device
US4462651A (en) * 1982-12-10 1984-07-31 Raychem Corporation Reusable heat-recoverable connecting device
JPS59146175A (en) * 1983-02-10 1984-08-21 株式会社日立製作所 Electric connector
US4634201A (en) * 1984-05-07 1987-01-06 The United States Of America As Represented By The Department Of The Navy Connector/nitinol Δ contact force device
US4717352A (en) * 1985-03-19 1988-01-05 Souriau & Cie Connection element between an electric connector and a connector contact
FR2579375B1 (en) * 1985-03-19 1991-05-03 Souriau & Cie ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR WITH CONTACT MEMBER OF SHAPE MEMORY MATERIAL

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US4810201A (en) 1989-03-07
EP0211735A1 (en) 1987-02-25
CA1296788C (en) 1992-03-03
FR2585191B1 (en) 1988-09-30
FR2585191A1 (en) 1987-01-23
DE3671330D1 (en) 1990-06-21
JPS6264074A (en) 1987-03-20

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