Electrical connector system

U.S. Patent Number: 5387134

Abstract: An electrical connector system includes first and second electrical connectors mateable in a given general direction (A). Each connector includes a housing having a mating end and at least a pair of terminals mounted on the housing. The pair of terminals of each connector have contact portions engageable with the contact portions of the pair of terminals of the other connector. The contact portions of the terminals of at least one of the connectors are at angles to the mating direction to define a generally V-shaped engaging configuration. The contact portions of the terminals of at least one of the connectors are resilient. Therefore, wiping engagement between the respective terminals is effected during mating of the connectors, and the resilient contact portions are effective to store energy upon mating of the connectors, which energy is effective to assist in unmating of the connectors.

Inventors: Bryce; Brian (Limerick, IE), Casey; Patrick G. (Kerry, IE), Cruise; Thomas W. (Limerick, IE), O'Brien; Paul M. (Co. Clare, IE), Wilhite; Matthew (Dooravoyle Limerick, IE)

Assignee: Molex Incorporated (Lisle, IL)

Application Number: 08/090,394

Issued: 1995-02-07

Expired: 2007-02-07

Classes: 439/660 ; 439/629

Field of search: 439/59,372,629,660

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