Self-aligning connector assembly
US6273744A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 14, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R13/631
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention involves a self-aligning connector assembly adapted for connecting first and second electrical conductors. The invention may be incorporated within a door panel assembly of a vehicle. The self-aligning connector assembly provides for self-aligning assembly techniques of vehicle panels to sheet metal structures. The connector assembly comprises a male connector, a female connector receiving the male connector, and a conductive member disposed on the female connector. The male connector has a base portion and a head portion. Head portion tapers from the base portion to form an arcuate top. The base portion has a conductive area disposed thereon and adapted to connect to the first electrical conductor, such as electrical wires. The female connector has a body portion defining an opening and has inner and outer surfaces. The inner surface of the female connector receives the male connector and is formed to complement the shape of the male connector and is cooperable with the arcuate top of the male connector to facilitate the self-alignment of the male and female connectors. The outer surface of the female connector has a slot formed thereon. The conductive member…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.