GB1347166A - Device for making electrical connections between conductors - Google Patents

Abstract

1347166 Two part couplings WESTERN ELECTRIC CO Inc 27 April 1971 [30 April 1970] 11537/71 Heading H2E In a plug and socket coupling the plug and socket each comprise two interfitting insulating parts with one part having flat terminals fitted therein, which terminals are adapted to become and remain connected to conductors when the respective parts are interfitted, and on mating the plug and socket a portion of the plug enters a cavity in one of the socket parts and the socket terminals enter into terminal receiving portions in the plug. The plug 34 comprises a moulded insulating base 42 and lid 43, the base having troughs 49 for receiving conductors 41, each trough being integral with a respective groove 53 into which a respective terminal 71 is received and retained by barbs 73. When the lid is fitted on the base the insulated conductors 41 are pressed against and pierced by barbs 72 on the terminals to effect connection. The socket or jack 37 is similar to the plug having a base 111, lid 141 and contacts 102 with barbs 106 which connect with insulated conductors 101 when the lid is fitted. Both lids 43, 141 have energy directors (64, 144) to facilitate ultrasonic bonding of the lids to the bases. The socket base has a cavity 112 complementary to portions of the plug and includes an overhanging portion 120 with a guide slot 134 into which a tongue 92 on the plug fits, such that when the plug and socket are coupled arm portions 98 of a resilient latch 95 engage behind the overhang within the socket; release for uncoupling is effected by depressing a tab 99. The portions of the plug contacts which mate with the socket contacts are rigidly housed in the grooves 53 which have flared entrances 56, while the contacting portions of the socket contacts 102 are resiliently housed, bent out of the plane of the terminal and have dimple-projections 108, 109 to improve mating of the plug and socket contacts (see Fig. 14). Strain relief for the conductors 41 is provided by a raised portion (61) and a channel 62. Figs. 15 to 17 (not shown) illustrate sockets which are more compact and have different shaped terminals but are matable with plugs 34.