EP3288122B1 - A connector position assurance locking mechanism and method of operating the connector position assurance locking mechanism - Google Patents
A connector position assurance locking mechanism and method of operating the connector position assurance locking mechanism Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3288122B1 EP3288122B1 EP17187151.0A EP17187151A EP3288122B1 EP 3288122 B1 EP3288122 B1 EP 3288122B1 EP 17187151 A EP17187151 A EP 17187151A EP 3288122 B1 EP3288122 B1 EP 3288122B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- connector assembly
- component
- female connector
- position assurance
- assurance device
- 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.)
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 7
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000149 penetrating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/64—Means for preventing incorrect coupling
- H01R13/641—Means for preventing incorrect coupling by indicating incorrect coupling; by indicating correct or full engagement
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
- H01R13/639—Additional means for holding or locking coupling parts together, after engagement, e.g. separate keylock, retainer strap
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
- H01R13/627—Snap or like fastening
- H01R13/6271—Latching means integral with the housing
- H01R13/6272—Latching means integral with the housing comprising a single latching arm
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism used to securely hold together a connector apparatus which has a male connector assembly and a female connector assembly.
- the connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism is inserted into one of the connector assemblies to lock the male connector assembly and female connector assembly together as an additional locking assurance.
- CPA connector position assurance
- US 6,312,277 B1 , EP 1 096 616 A2 , US 2004/0067676 A1 and EP 3 016 213 A1 describe variants of connectors.
- the invention is a connector position assurance device as it is defined by the features of independent claim 1.
- the invention is a method of operating a connector assurance device as it is defined by the features of independent claim 10. Preferred embodiments are subject of the dependent claims.
- the connector position assurance device comprises a two-component locking system including an upper component and a lower component, wherein the lower component forms an aperture; at least one tooth formed at a front end of the lower component; a first curved upper region and a second curved upper region formed on the upper component, wherein the upper component extends forward from the second curved upper region toward a front of the connector position assurance device; a back being connected to the upper component and the lower component; and a pair of arms being connected to the back.
- the lower component has edges curved upward toward the upper component.
- each of the arms has an interior surface facing toward the two-component locking system and an exterior surface facing outward, wherein the exterior surface does not have protrusions extending outward.
- the CPA locking mechanism can be engaged, in a pre-lock position, to the female connector assembly prior to transport of the female connector assembly.
- the male connector assembly and female connector assembly are engaged together, and the engagement thereof is assured when the CPA locking mechanism is placed at a full-lock position.
- the CPA locking mechanism can also be referred to as a CPA device.
- FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the connector apparatus of the present invention having a male connector assembly, a female connector assembly, and a connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism.
- the connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism can also be referred to as a CPA device.
- FIG. 1 illustrates, in an exploded perspective view, the connector apparatus, generally referred to by reference number 1, which includes male connector assembly 100, female connector assembly 200, and CPA device 300.
- the male connector assembly 100 has an opening 102 for accommodating the female connector assembly 200.
- the opening 102 can be referred to as the male connector opening 102.
- the female connector assembly 200 has an opening 202 for accommodating the CPA device 300.
- the opening 202 can be referred to as the female connector opening 202.
- the female connector assembly 200 includes a locking component 204.
- An aperture 220 is formed by the locking component 204, as shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the male connector assembly 100, the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300, when the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position.
- a tooth of the CPA device 300 is referred to by reference numeral 312
- a first curved upper region of the CPA device 300 is referred to by reference numeral 302.
- the locking component 204 includes at least a front portion 216 and two side portions 218, as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the first curved upper region 302 of the CPA device 300 is shown to be penetrating the aperture 220 of the locking component 204.
- FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300, when the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position.
- the female connector assembly 200 has at least a first end 208 and a second end 210, at least one terminal aperture 212, and a top side 214.
- the female connector opening 202 is formed at the second end 210 of the female connector assembly 200.
- the first end 208 is to be inserted into the male connector opening 102 of the male connector assembly 100.
- the locking component 204 of the female connector assembly 200 is located at the top side 214.
- FIG. 4 is an end elevational view of the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300, when the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position.
- FIG. 4 shows multiple terminal apertures 212 of the female connector assembly 200, for receiving terminals (not shown).
- FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300, when the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 3 , of the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300, when the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200 and the CPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position.
- the female connector assembly 200 includes the locking component 204 having a front portion 216.
- the front portion 216 has a front edge denoted with reference numeral 216A and a rear edge denoted with reference numeral 216B, as shown in FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 6 demonstrates that, for the pre-lock position, the teeth 312 have gone into the female connector assembly 200 to a position such that the teeth 312 have passed beyond the front portion 216.
- the teeth 312 are abutting and directly contacting the front edge 216A of the front portion 216, for the arrangement as shown in FIG. 6 .
- Only one tooth 312 is shown in FIG. 6 , because FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, but it can be understood that the CPA device 300 has two teeth 312 abutting and directly contacting the front edge 216A of the front portion 216, for the arrangement as shown in FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 6 shows that, for the pre-lock position, the first curved upper region 302 has gone into the female connector assembly 200 to a position such that the first curved upper region 302 has not passed beyond the front portion 216.
- the first curved upper region 302 is abutting and directly contacting the rear edge 216B of the front portion 216, as shown in FIG. 6 .
- the arrangement shown in FIG. 6 corresponding to the pre-lock position, can be utilized during transport of the female connector assembly and at other times.
- FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the male connector assembly 100, the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300, when the male connector assembly 100 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.
- FIG. 8 is an end elevational view of the male connector assembly 100, the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300, when the male connector assembly 100 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.
- FIG. 8 is an end elevational view of the male connector assembly 100, the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300, when the male connector assembly 100 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.
- FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the male connector assembly 100, the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300, when the male connector assembly 100 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.
- FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 7 , of the male connector assembly 100, the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300, when the male connector assembly 100 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, the CPA device 300 has been connected to the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.
- the female connector assembly 200 includes the locking component 204 having a front portion 216. Front edge 216A of the front portion 216 is shown in FIG. 10 . Also, rear edge 216B of the front portion 216 is shown in FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 10 also shows that male connector assembly 100 has at least one latch 104.
- the male connector assembly 100 may also have additional latches.
- the latch 104 will be at the rear edge 216B of the front portion 216 when the male connector assembly 100 is connected to the female connector assembly 200, the CPA device 300 is connected to the female connector assembly 200, and the CPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.
- the latch 104 is located between the rear edge 216B and the second end 210 of the female connector assembly 200.
- the latch 104 is located between the rear edge 216B and the back 322 of the CPA device 300.
- the latch 104 engages the locking component 204 in order to hold the male connector assembly 100 to the female connector assembly 200.
- the latch 104 engages the front portion 216 of the locking component 204 in order to hold the male connector assembly 100 to the female connector assembly 200.
- the male connector assembly 100 has a housing 122.
- the housing 122 forms the male connector opening 102.
- the latch 104 is on the interior of the housing 122, inside the male connector opening 102.
- the female connector assembly 200 has a housing 222.
- the housing 222 forms the female connector opening 202.
- the teeth 312 engage the locking component 204 in order to hold the CPA device 300 to the female connector assembly 200 in the pre-lock position.
- the teeth 312 engage the front edge 216A of the front portion 216 of the locking component 204 in order to hold the CPA device 300 to the female connector assembly 200 in the pre-lock position.
- the first curved upper region 302 engages the locking component 204 in order to hold the male connector assembly 100 to the female connector assembly 200 in the full-lock position.
- the first curved upper region 302 engages the front edge 216A of the front portion 216 of the locking component 204 in order to hold the male connector assembly 100 to the female connector assembly 200 in the full-lock position.
- FIG. 10 demonstrates that the teeth 312 have gone into the female connector assembly 200 to a position such that the teeth 312 have passed beyond the front portion 216.
- FIG. 10 shows that first curved upper region 302 has gone into the female connector assembly 200 to a position such that the first curved upper region 302 has also passed beyond the front portion 216.
- first curved upper region 302 of the CPA device 300 is abutting and directly contacting the front edge 216A of the front portion 216.
- the teeth 312 have passed under the front portion 216, and first curved upper region 302 has also passed under the front portion 216.
- FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of the CPA device 300.
- FIG. 12 is a rear end elevational view of the CPA device 300.
- FIG. 13 is a bottom elevational view of the CPA device 300.
- FIG. 14 is a side end elevational view of the CPA device 300.
- FIG. 15 is a front end elevational view of the CPA device 300.
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 16-16 in FIG. 11 , of the CPA device 300.
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the CPA device 300.
- the CPA device 300 includes first curved upper region 302, second curved upper region 304, a pair of teeth 312, and other components as described herein.
- FIG. 17 shows an embodiment wherein the CPA device 300 has two teeth 312, it can be understood that, according to an alternative embodiment, the CPA device 300 can be modified to have only one tooth 312.
- FIG. 11 shows that the CPA device 300 has a pair of arms 306.
- FIG. 17 shows an exterior surface 306A of one of the arms 306, and also shows an interior surface 306B of one of the arms 306.
- the exterior surfaces 306A of arms 306 have flat and smooth surfaces.
- the exterior surfaces 306A do not have protrusions extending outward away from the CPA device 300.
- the arms 306 can slide into the female connector opening 202 of the female connector assembly 200.
- the CPA device 300 includes a two-component locking system having an upper component 308 and a lower component 320.
- the upper component 308 can also be referred to as a flexible beam.
- the upper component 308 is able to flex downward toward the lower component 320, for example.
- the upper component 308 extends forward from the second curved upper region 304 toward the front 316 of the CPA device 300.
- the upper component 308 has a front end 310 and side edges 324.
- the lower component 320 extends forward from the back 322 toward the front 316 of the CPA device 300.
- the lower component 320 forms an aperture 314. Edges of the lower component 320 are curved upward. The edges of the lower component 320 are referred to by reference numeral 318.
- the side edges 324 are flat and smooth, and do not have protrusions extending outward toward edges 318 of the lower component 320.
- FIG. 17 also shows side edge 324 to be flat and smooth.
- the front portion 204 forces the first curved upper region 302 to move downward towards aperture 314 or into aperture 314.
- the front end 310 of the upper component 308 has a surface that has rounded, smooth edges, as shown in FIG. 11 , for example.
- the front end 310 of the upper component 308 is not split into multiple different sections.
- the CPA device 300 allows the CPA device 300 to be in the pre-lock position and the full-lock position when inserted into the female connector opening 202 of the female connector assembly 200.
- the full-lock position of the CPA device 300 assures the full engagement, and subsequent locking, of the female connector assembly 200 to the male connector assembly 100.
- the CPA device 300 is inserted into the female connector opening 202 of the female connector assembly 200.
- the teeth 312 will travel under the front portion 216 of the female connector assembly 200.
- the pre-lock position In the pre-lock position, the first curved upper region 302 is directly contacting the rear edge 216B, and the teeth 312 are directly contacting the front edge 216A, as shown in FIG. 6 .
- the male connector assembly 100 is connected to the female connector assembly 200, by inserting the female connector assembly 200 into the male connector opening 102 of the male connector assembly 100.
- the CPA device 300 is moved from the pre-lock position to the full-lock position as described herein.
- the first curved upper region 302 will travel under the front portion 216 of the locking component 204 of the female connector assembly 200.
- this is the full-lock position.
- the first curved upper region 302 In the full-lock position, the first curved upper region 302 is directly contacting the front edge 216A, and the latch 104 is at the rear edge 216B, as shown in FIG. 10 .
Description
- The present invention generally relates to a connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism used to securely hold together a connector apparatus which has a male connector assembly and a female connector assembly. The connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism is inserted into one of the connector assemblies to lock the male connector assembly and female connector assembly together as an additional locking assurance.
US 6,312,277 B1 ,EP 1 096 616 A2US 2004/0067676 A1 andEP 3 016 213 A1 describe variants of connectors. - In one aspect, the invention is a connector position assurance device as it is defined by the features of
independent claim 1. In another aspect, the invention is a method of operating a connector assurance device as it is defined by the features ofindependent claim 10. Preferred embodiments are subject of the dependent claims. - In particular, the connector position assurance device according to the invention comprises a two-component locking system including an upper component and a lower component, wherein the lower component forms an aperture; at least one tooth formed at a front end of the lower component; a first curved upper region and a second curved upper region formed on the upper component, wherein the upper component extends forward from the second curved upper region toward a front of the connector position assurance device; a back being connected to the upper component and the lower component; and a pair of arms being connected to the back. The lower component has edges curved upward toward the upper component.
- Preferably, each of the arms has an interior surface facing toward the two-component locking system and an exterior surface facing outward, wherein the exterior surface does not have protrusions extending outward.
- To ensure that the connector position assurance locking mechanism is available to connect to the female connector assembly, the CPA locking mechanism can be engaged, in a pre-lock position, to the female connector assembly prior to transport of the female connector assembly.
- The male connector assembly and female connector assembly are engaged together, and the engagement thereof is assured when the CPA locking mechanism is placed at a full-lock position. The CPA locking mechanism can also be referred to as a CPA device.
- Additional features, advantages, and embodiments of the invention are set forth or are apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, drawings and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the invention as claimed.
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FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the connector apparatus of the present invention having a male connector assembly, a female connector assembly, and a connector position assurance (CPA) device. -
FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the male connector assembly, the female connector assembly, and the CPA device, when the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly and the CPA device is in the pre-lock position. -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the female connector assembly and the CPA device, when the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly and the CPA device is in the pre-lock position. -
FIG. 4 is an end elevational view of the female connector assembly and the CPA device, when the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly and the CPA device is in the pre-lock position. -
FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the female connector assembly and the CPA device, when the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly and the CPA device is in the pre-lock position. -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 6-6 inFIG. 3 , of the female connector assembly and the CPA device, when the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly and the CPA device is in the pre-lock position. -
FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the male connector assembly, the female connector assembly, and the CPA device, when the male connector assembly has been connected to the female connector assembly, the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly, and the CPA device is in the full-lock position. -
FIG. 8 is an end elevational view of the male connector assembly, the female connector assembly, and the CPA device, when the male connector assembly has been connected to the female connector assembly, the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly, and the CPA device is in the full-lock position. -
FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the male connector assembly, the female connector assembly, and the CPA device, when the male connector assembly has been connected to the female connector assembly, the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly, and the CPA device is in the full-lock position. -
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 10-10 inFIG. 7 , of the male connector assembly, the female connector assembly, and the CPA device, when the male connector assembly has been connected to the female connector assembly, the CPA device has been connected to the female connector assembly, and the CPA device is in the full-lock position. -
FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of the CPA device. -
FIG. 12 is a rear end elevational view of the CPA device. -
FIG. 13 is a bottom elevational view of the CPA device. -
FIG. 14 is a side end elevational view of the CPA device. -
FIG. 15 is a front end elevational view of the CPA device. -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 16-16 inFIG. 11 , of the CPA device. -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the CPA device. -
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the connector apparatus of the present invention having a male connector assembly, a female connector assembly, and a connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism. The connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism can also be referred to as a CPA device. -
FIG. 1 illustrates, in an exploded perspective view, the connector apparatus, generally referred to byreference number 1, which includesmale connector assembly 100,female connector assembly 200, andCPA device 300. - The
male connector assembly 100 has anopening 102 for accommodating thefemale connector assembly 200. The opening 102 can be referred to as the male connector opening 102. Thefemale connector assembly 200 has anopening 202 for accommodating theCPA device 300. The opening 202 can be referred to as the female connector opening 202. Thefemale connector assembly 200 includes alocking component 204. Anaperture 220 is formed by thelocking component 204, as shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of themale connector assembly 100, thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300, when theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position. InFIG. 2 , a tooth of theCPA device 300 is referred to byreference numeral 312, and a first curved upper region of theCPA device 300 is referred to byreference numeral 302. - On the
female connector assembly 200, thelocking component 204 includes at least afront portion 216 and twoside portions 218, as shown inFIG. 2 . InFIG. 2 , the first curvedupper region 302 of theCPA device 300 is shown to be penetrating theaperture 220 of thelocking component 204. -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300, when theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position. Thefemale connector assembly 200 has at least afirst end 208 and asecond end 210, at least oneterminal aperture 212, and atop side 214. The female connector opening 202 is formed at thesecond end 210 of thefemale connector assembly 200. Thefirst end 208 is to be inserted into the male connector opening 102 of themale connector assembly 100. - As shown in
FIG. 3 , thelocking component 204 of thefemale connector assembly 200 is located at thetop side 214. -
FIG. 4 is an end elevational view of thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300, when theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position.FIG. 4 showsmultiple terminal apertures 212 of thefemale connector assembly 200, for receiving terminals (not shown).FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300, when theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position. -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 6-6 inFIG. 3 , of thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300, when theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200 and theCPA device 300 is in the pre-lock position. As shown inFIG. 6 , thefemale connector assembly 200 includes thelocking component 204 having afront portion 216. Thefront portion 216 has a front edge denoted withreference numeral 216A and a rear edge denoted withreference numeral 216B, as shown inFIG. 6 . - As shown in
FIG. 6 , theCPA device 300 has been partially inserted into the female connector opening 202 of thefemale connector assembly 200, and this can be referred to as the pre-lock position.FIG. 6 demonstrates that, for the pre-lock position, theteeth 312 have gone into thefemale connector assembly 200 to a position such that theteeth 312 have passed beyond thefront portion 216. Theteeth 312 are abutting and directly contacting thefront edge 216A of thefront portion 216, for the arrangement as shown inFIG. 6 . Only onetooth 312 is shown inFIG. 6 , becauseFIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, but it can be understood that theCPA device 300 has twoteeth 312 abutting and directly contacting thefront edge 216A of thefront portion 216, for the arrangement as shown inFIG. 6 . - Also,
FIG. 6 shows that, for the pre-lock position, the first curvedupper region 302 has gone into thefemale connector assembly 200 to a position such that the first curvedupper region 302 has not passed beyond thefront portion 216. The first curvedupper region 302 is abutting and directly contacting therear edge 216B of thefront portion 216, as shown inFIG. 6 . - In the pre-lock position shown in
FIG. 6 , theteeth 312 have already passed under thefront portion 216, but the first curvedupper region 302 has not passed under thefront portion 216. - The arrangement shown in
FIG. 6 , corresponding to the pre-lock position, can be utilized during transport of the female connector assembly and at other times. -
FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of themale connector assembly 100, thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300, when themale connector assembly 100 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.FIG. 8 is an end elevational view of themale connector assembly 100, thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300, when themale connector assembly 100 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300 is in the full-lock position.FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of themale connector assembly 100, thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300, when themale connector assembly 100 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300 is in the full-lock position. -
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 10-10 inFIG. 7 , of themale connector assembly 100, thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300, when themale connector assembly 100 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, theCPA device 300 has been connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300 is in the full-lock position. - As shown in
FIG. 10 , thefemale connector assembly 200 includes thelocking component 204 having afront portion 216.Front edge 216A of thefront portion 216 is shown inFIG. 10 . Also,rear edge 216B of thefront portion 216 is shown inFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 10 also shows thatmale connector assembly 100 has at least onelatch 104. Themale connector assembly 100 may also have additional latches. As shown inFIG. 10 , thelatch 104 will be at therear edge 216B of thefront portion 216 when themale connector assembly 100 is connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, theCPA device 300 is connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, and theCPA device 300 is in the full-lock position. As shown inFIG. 10 , thelatch 104 is located between therear edge 216B and thesecond end 210 of thefemale connector assembly 200. Also, as shown inFIG. 10 , thelatch 104 is located between therear edge 216B and the back 322 of theCPA device 300. - The
latch 104 engages thelocking component 204 in order to hold themale connector assembly 100 to thefemale connector assembly 200. In particular, thelatch 104 engages thefront portion 216 of thelocking component 204 in order to hold themale connector assembly 100 to thefemale connector assembly 200. Themale connector assembly 100 has ahousing 122. Thehousing 122 forms themale connector opening 102. Thelatch 104 is on the interior of thehousing 122, inside themale connector opening 102. Thefemale connector assembly 200 has ahousing 222. Thehousing 222 forms thefemale connector opening 202. - The
teeth 312 engage thelocking component 204 in order to hold theCPA device 300 to thefemale connector assembly 200 in the pre-lock position. In particular, theteeth 312 engage thefront edge 216A of thefront portion 216 of thelocking component 204 in order to hold theCPA device 300 to thefemale connector assembly 200 in the pre-lock position. - The first curved
upper region 302 engages thelocking component 204 in order to hold themale connector assembly 100 to thefemale connector assembly 200 in the full-lock position. In particular, the first curvedupper region 302 engages thefront edge 216A of thefront portion 216 of thelocking component 204 in order to hold themale connector assembly 100 to thefemale connector assembly 200 in the full-lock position. - As shown in
FIG. 10 , theCPA device 300 has been fully inserted into thefemale connector opening 202 of thefemale connector assembly 200, and thefemale connector assembly 200 has been fully inserted into themale connector opening 102 of themale connector assembly 100. This can be referred to as the full-lock position.FIG. 10 demonstrates that theteeth 312 have gone into thefemale connector assembly 200 to a position such that theteeth 312 have passed beyond thefront portion 216.FIG. 10 shows that first curvedupper region 302 has gone into thefemale connector assembly 200 to a position such that the first curvedupper region 302 has also passed beyond thefront portion 216. - In the full-lock position as shown in
FIG. 10 , the first curvedupper region 302 of theCPA device 300 is abutting and directly contacting thefront edge 216A of thefront portion 216. In the full-lock position shown inFIG. 10 , theteeth 312 have passed under thefront portion 216, and first curvedupper region 302 has also passed under thefront portion 216. -
FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of theCPA device 300.FIG. 12 is a rear end elevational view of theCPA device 300.FIG. 13 is a bottom elevational view of theCPA device 300.FIG. 14 is a side end elevational view of theCPA device 300.FIG. 15 is a front end elevational view of theCPA device 300.FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 16-16 inFIG. 11 , of theCPA device 300.FIG. 17 is a perspective view of theCPA device 300. - The
CPA device 300 includes first curvedupper region 302, second curvedupper region 304, a pair ofteeth 312, and other components as described herein. AlthoughFIG. 17 shows an embodiment wherein theCPA device 300 has twoteeth 312, it can be understood that, according to an alternative embodiment, theCPA device 300 can be modified to have only onetooth 312. -
FIG. 11 shows that theCPA device 300 has a pair ofarms 306.FIG. 17 shows anexterior surface 306A of one of thearms 306, and also shows aninterior surface 306B of one of thearms 306. The exterior surfaces 306A ofarms 306 have flat and smooth surfaces. The exterior surfaces 306A do not have protrusions extending outward away from theCPA device 300. Thus, thearms 306 can slide into thefemale connector opening 202 of thefemale connector assembly 200. - The
CPA device 300 includes a two-component locking system having anupper component 308 and alower component 320. - The
upper component 308 can also be referred to as a flexible beam. Theupper component 308 is able to flex downward toward thelower component 320, for example. Theupper component 308 extends forward from the second curvedupper region 304 toward thefront 316 of theCPA device 300. Theupper component 308 has afront end 310 and side edges 324. - The
lower component 320 extends forward from the back 322 toward thefront 316 of theCPA device 300. Thelower component 320 forms anaperture 314. Edges of thelower component 320 are curved upward. The edges of thelower component 320 are referred to byreference numeral 318. - As shown in
FIG. 11 , for example, the side edges 324 are flat and smooth, and do not have protrusions extending outward towardedges 318 of thelower component 320.FIG. 17 also showsside edge 324 to be flat and smooth. - When the
CPA device 300 is being moved from the pre-lock position to the full-lock position, thefront portion 204 forces the first curvedupper region 302 to move downward towardsaperture 314 or intoaperture 314. - The
front end 310 of theupper component 308 has a surface that has rounded, smooth edges, as shown inFIG. 11 , for example. Thefront end 310 of theupper component 308 is not split into multiple different sections. - The
CPA device 300, with the above-described features and structural arrangements, allows theCPA device 300 to be in the pre-lock position and the full-lock position when inserted into thefemale connector opening 202 of thefemale connector assembly 200. The full-lock position of theCPA device 300 assures the full engagement, and subsequent locking, of thefemale connector assembly 200 to themale connector assembly 100. - A method for assembling the
connector apparatus 1 shall now be described. With reference toFIG. 1 , theCPA device 300 is inserted into thefemale connector opening 202 of thefemale connector assembly 200. Theteeth 312 will travel under thefront portion 216 of thefemale connector assembly 200. When theteeth 312 travel beyond thefront portion 216 of thefemale connector assembly 200, as shown inFIG. 6 , and the first curvedupper region 302 has not yet passed under thefront portion 216, this can be referred to as the pre-lock position. In the pre-lock position, the first curvedupper region 302 is directly contacting therear edge 216B, and theteeth 312 are directly contacting thefront edge 216A, as shown inFIG. 6 . - Next, the
male connector assembly 100 is connected to thefemale connector assembly 200, by inserting thefemale connector assembly 200 into themale connector opening 102 of themale connector assembly 100. - Last, the
CPA device 300 is moved from the pre-lock position to the full-lock position as described herein. The first curvedupper region 302 will travel under thefront portion 216 of thelocking component 204 of thefemale connector assembly 200. When the first curvedupper region 302 travels beyond thefront portion 216 of thelocking component 204, as shown inFIG. 10 , this is the full-lock position. In the full-lock position, the first curvedupper region 302 is directly contacting thefront edge 216A, and thelatch 104 is at therear edge 216B, as shown inFIG. 10 .
Claims (13)
- A connector position assurance device (300), comprising:a two-component locking system including an upper component (308) and a lower component (320), wherein the lower component forms an aperture (314);at least one tooth (312) formed at a front end of the lower component (320); anda first curved upper region (302) and a second curved upper region (304) formed on the upper component (308), wherein the upper component (308) extends forward from the second curved upper region (304) toward a front (316) of the connector position assurance device (300);characterized by further comprising:a back (322) being connected to the upper component (308) and the lower component (320); anda pair of arms (306) being connected to the back (322), wherein the lower component (320) has edges (318) curved upward toward the upper component (308).
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 1, wherein the aperture (314) is formed below the first curved upper region (302).
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 1, wherein each of the arms (306) has a flat exterior surface (306A) that does not have protrusions extending outward.
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 1, wherein the upper component (308) corresponds to a flexible beam.
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 4, wherein the flexible beam flexes down toward the lower component (320) when the first curved upper region (302) is pushed down.
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 1, wherein each of the arms (306) has an interior surface (306B) facing toward the two-component locking system and an exterior surface (306A) facing outward, wherein the exterior surface (306A) does not have protrusions extending outward.
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 1, wherein the teeth (312) are configured to engage a locking component when the connector position assurance device is in a pre-lock position.
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 1, wherein the first curved upper region (302) is configured to engage a locking component when the connector position assurance device is in a full-lock position.
- The connector position assurance device (300) as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one tooth (312) is a pair of teeth (312) formed at a front end of the lower component (320).
- A method of operating a connector position assurance device (300), comprising the steps of:providing a female connector assembly having a housing forming a female connector opening and a locking component;accommodating a connector position assurance device (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 in the female connector opening of the female connector assembly,
wherein the connector position assurance device (300) comprises:a two-component locking system including an upper component (308) and a lower component (320), wherein the lower component forms an aperture (314);at least one tooth (312) formed at a front end of the lower component (320);a first curved upper region (302) and a second curved upper region (304) formed on the upper component (308), wherein the upper component (308) extends forward from the second curved upper region (304) toward a front (316) of the connector position assurance device (300);a back (322) being connected to the upper component (308) and the lower component (320); anda pair of arms (306) being connected to the back (322), wherein the lower component (320) has edges (318) curved upward toward the upper component (308);providing a male connector assembly having a housing forming a male connector opening and at least one latch; andaccommodating the female connector assembly into the male connector opening of the male connector assembly. - The method of operating a connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 10, wherein the step of accommodating the connector position assurance device (300) in the female connector opening of the female connector assembly further comprises a step of engaging the at least one tooth (312) with the locking component of the female connector assembly, corresponding to a pre-lock position.
- The method of operating a connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 11, further comprising a step of engaging the first curved upper region (302) with the locking component of the female connector assembly, corresponding to a full-lock position.
- The method of operating a connector position assurance device (300) as in claim 12, wherein the step of accommodating the female connector assembly into the male connector opening of the male connector assembly further comprises a step of engaging the at least one latch of the male connector assembly with the locking component of the female connector assembly.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/243,008 US10615542B2 (en) | 2015-09-02 | 2016-08-22 | Connector position assurance locking mechanism and method of operating the connector position assurance locking mechanism |
Publications (2)
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EP3288122A1 EP3288122A1 (en) | 2018-02-28 |
EP3288122B1 true EP3288122B1 (en) | 2020-07-22 |
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EP17187151.0A Active EP3288122B1 (en) | 2016-08-22 | 2017-08-21 | A connector position assurance locking mechanism and method of operating the connector position assurance locking mechanism |
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DE102019113491A1 (en) * | 2019-05-21 | 2020-11-26 | Te Connectivity Germany Gmbh | Housing for a plug with a display device |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6312277B1 (en) * | 1999-01-27 | 2001-11-06 | Cardell Corporation | Connector position assurance device for a connector |
EP3016213A1 (en) * | 2014-10-27 | 2016-05-04 | Delphi International Operations Luxembourg S.à r.l. | CPA device for direct mating and unmating |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6354860B1 (en) * | 1999-11-01 | 2002-03-12 | Osram Sylvania Inc. | Connector and connector assembly |
JP3991911B2 (en) * | 2002-07-17 | 2007-10-17 | 住友電装株式会社 | connector |
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2017
- 2017-08-21 EP EP17187151.0A patent/EP3288122B1/en active Active
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6312277B1 (en) * | 1999-01-27 | 2001-11-06 | Cardell Corporation | Connector position assurance device for a connector |
EP3016213A1 (en) * | 2014-10-27 | 2016-05-04 | Delphi International Operations Luxembourg S.à r.l. | CPA device for direct mating and unmating |
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