EP4387002A1 - Power connector with a conductive seal - Google Patents
Power connector with a conductive seal Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4387002A1 EP4387002A1 EP22214025.3A EP22214025A EP4387002A1 EP 4387002 A1 EP4387002 A1 EP 4387002A1 EP 22214025 A EP22214025 A EP 22214025A EP 4387002 A1 EP4387002 A1 EP 4387002A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- conductive seal
- housing
- elastomeric conductive
- cavity
- shielding element
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910002804 graphite Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000010439 graphite Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000003989 dielectric material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 238000002788 crimping Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011231 conductive filler Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910000881 Cu alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- BQCADISMDOOEFD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silver Chemical compound [Ag] BQCADISMDOOEFD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052709 silver Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004332 silver Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
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
- H01R13/648—Protective earth or shield arrangements on coupling devices, e.g. anti-static shielding
- H01R13/658—High frequency shielding arrangements, e.g. against EMI [Electro-Magnetic Interference] or EMP [Electro-Magnetic Pulse]
- H01R13/6598—Shield material
- H01R13/6599—Dielectric material made conductive, e.g. plastic material coated with metal
-
- 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
- H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
- H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
- H01R13/5205—Sealing means between cable and housing, e.g. grommet
- H01R13/5208—Sealing means between cable and housing, e.g. grommet having at least two cable receiving openings
-
- 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
- H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
- H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
- H01R13/5216—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases characterised by the sealing material, e.g. gels or resins
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R9/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, e.g. terminal strips or terminal blocks; Terminals or binding posts mounted upon a base or in a case; Bases therefor
- H01R9/03—Connectors arranged to contact a plurality of the conductors of a multiconductor cable, e.g. tapping connections
- H01R9/05—Connectors arranged to contact a plurality of the conductors of a multiconductor cable, e.g. tapping connections for coaxial cables
- H01R9/0527—Connection to outer conductor by action of a resilient member, e.g. spring
-
- 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
- H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
- H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
- H01R13/5205—Sealing means between cable and housing, e.g. grommet
-
- 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
- H01R13/648—Protective earth or shield arrangements on coupling devices, e.g. anti-static shielding
- H01R13/658—High frequency shielding arrangements, e.g. against EMI [Electro-Magnetic Interference] or EMP [Electro-Magnetic Pulse]
- H01R13/6581—Shield structure
- H01R13/6582—Shield structure with resilient means for engaging mating connector
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
- H01R2201/26—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for vehicles
Definitions
- the disclosure below relates to the field of power connectors. More particularly, this disclosure relates to power connectors equipped with electromagnetic shielding. Such power connectors can be used in motor vehicles.
- the connectors comprising a global shielding and the connectors in which the shielding is provided by a shielding continuity through individual shielded wires.
- these types of connectors are usually sealed against ingress of water. Then, depending on the shielding technology (global or through individual shielded wires), the shielding elements are placed inside or outside the sealed area.
- patent document EP3155692A1 discloses a connector with shielding elements inside the sealed area and the patent document FR3032835A1 discloses a connector with shielding elements outside the sealed area.
- the present disclosure is intended to provide a solution that at least partially reduces these drawbacks.
- this connector it is proposed a power connector according to claim 1. Thanks to this power connector, the shielding layer of individual shielded wires are connected, via the elastomeric conductive seal to the outer shielding elements.
- this connector can be used for both shielding technologies: global or through individual shielded wires.
- the connector interface remains compatible with a single reference of counter-connector. It is not necessary to manufacture two counter-connectors for use in each of these two shielding technologies.
- this electrical connector possibly comprises one or more of the features mentioned in claims 2 to 6, each one of these features being considered independently of each other or in combination of one or several others.
- this method possibly comprises one or more of the features mentioned in claims 8 to 10, each one of these features being considered independently of each other or in combination of one or several others.
- FIG. 1 An example of an embodiment of a power connector 1 is shown in Figures 1 to 3 .
- the power connector 1 is a 2-way female connector, but this disclosure can be transposed to other types of connectors.
- adjectives such as “rear”, “front”, etc. refer to the mating direction of the connector 1, the front side corresponding to the mating interface of the connector 1 with a counter-connector.
- the connector 1 is a cable connector. It comprises in particular a housing 2, a mate assist system 3, an outer shielding element 4 (which can be formed by one or several parts), two ferules 5, two female terminals 6, two front single-wire seals 7, two seal retainers 8, two rear single-wire seals 9, a global seal 10 and an elastomeric conductive seal 11.
- the housing 2, the mate assist system 3 and the seal retainers 9 are made of a dielectric material (for example they are made by molding).
- the outer shielding element 4 and the ferules 5 are made of a conductive material (for example the ferules 5 are made by deep-drawing of a sheet metal).
- the female terminals 6 are made for example of copper or a copper alloy (although, other conductive metals can be used, such as aluminum for example).
- the front single-wire seals 7, the rear single-wire seals 9 and the global seal 10 are made of elastomeric material.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is made of elastomeric material with conductive fillers (For example, the elastomeric material is a silicone or fluorosilicone, and the fillers may comprise carbon, graphite, silver and/or copper particles).
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is made of a graphite mixed dry silicone.
- Such an elastomeric conductive seal 11 has properties which are suitable for sealing the connector 1, as well as a suitable electrical conductivity.
- the elastomeric material with conductive fillers is chosen to achieve a resistance of less than 100mOhms, and more advantageously less than 50mOhms (for example, about 30mOhms). It has been confirmed that such a material does not reduce the performances of the shielding properties (attenuation) of the overall connector 1.
- the housing 2 comprises two cavities 12, each one accommodating one female terminal 6. Each female terminal 6 is mechanically attached and electrically linked to a shielded cable 13.
- Each shielded cable 13 comprises, from the outside in, an outer insulating sheath 14, a shielding layer 15 (for example a shielding braid), an inner insulating sheath and a core wire (not shown).
- a ferule 5 is mounted on a stripped area of each shielded cable 13, on which a portion of the outer insulating sheath 14 is removed to expose the shielding layer 15.
- a rear single wire seal 9 is mounted on each shielded cable 13, on a rear portion of this stripped area.
- Each rear single-wire seal 9 seals a cavity 12 between an inner surface of the housing 2 and the outer insulating sheath 14 of a shielded cable 13.
- a front single wire seal 7 is mounted on each shielded cable 13, between the stripped area and a female terminal 6.
- each front single wire seal 7 is maintained on a shielded cable by a crimping portion of a female terminal 6.
- Each front single-wire seal 7 seals a cavity 12 between an inner surface of the housing 2 and the inner insulating sheath of a shielded cable 13. Accordingly, each cavity 12, as in prior art configurations, is sealed at the front and at the rear, respectively by a front single-wire seal 7 and a rear single-wire seal 9.
- each cavity 12 is only open at its rear and front ends. But, further in this embodiment example, each cavity 12 has a peripheral wall 16 comprising passages 17. In other words, passages 17 are made in the housing 2, between the outer surface and the inner surface of the peripheral wall 16 of each cavity 12. Then, an elastomeric conductive seal 11 is required to complete the sealing of the cavity 12 at the passages 17. Further, the elastomeric conductive seal 11 provides an electrical continuity between the outer shielding element 4 and the ferules 5.
- each ferule 5 has a fixation portion 18 and funnel portion 19 (see Figure 3 ).
- the funnel portion 19 serves to guide a free end of the shielded cable 13 towards and in the fixation portion 18.
- the funnel portion 19 also provides a smoother and larger electrical contact area that the fixation portion 18. This improves the electrical contact between the elastomeric conductive seal 11 and the ferule 5.
- the fixation portion 18 is tightly held on the stripped portion of the shielded cable 13 so as to establish an electrical contact and connection between the shielding layer 15 of the shielded cable 13.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is in electrical contact both with the with outer shielding element 4 and the funnel portion 19, which is itself electrically connected to the fixation portion 18. Therefore, an electrical continuity is established between the outer shielding element 4 and the shielding layer 15 of the shielded cable 13 through the passages 17 via the elastomeric conductive seal 11.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 has an essentially oval shape.
- This essentially oval shape forms a closed loop or ring.
- This ring has an outer circumferential surface 20 and an inner surface 21.
- the outer circumferential surface 20 faces radially outward (of the ring shape) and is smooth.
- the inner surface 21 is essentially opposite the outer circumferential surface 20, faces radially inward and includes two crenelated sections 22 on which contacting projections 23 extend radially inward from the inner surface 21.
- the contacting projections 23 form a single piece with the ring.
- each crenelated section 22 comprises five contacting projections 23.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is placed on the outer surface of the housing 2, with one contacting projection 23 in each passage 17.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is shared by the two cavities 12 of the connector 1, but the elastomeric conductive seal 11 comprises one crenelated section 22 for each cavity 12.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is essentially inserted between the outer surface of the housing 2 and the outer shielding element 4, even though each contacting projection 23 penetrates, through a passage 17, in a cavity 12 to make an electrical contact with the corresponding ferule 5.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 has connection means (i. e. contacting projection 23) passing through at least one passage 17, and such connection means electrically connects the shielding layer 15 to at least one outer shielding element 4.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 is manufactured as an open strip. This open strip can be bent so as to form a ring (see Figure 6 ). Then, the elastomeric conductive seal 11 has four contacting projections 23, as well as fixation projections 26, 27. The fixation projections 26, 27 are intended to be inserted in opposite openings or notches made in the housing 2. More particularly, the elastomeric conductive seal 11 has two end fixation projections 26 each respectively located at a free end of the open strip and one central fixation projection 27 located essentially in the middle of the open strip. When inserted in an opening or a notch, the two end fixation projections 26 (which are each respectively equivalent to half of the central fixation projection 27) maintain the strip as a ring.
- Each contacting projection 23 penetrates through a passage 17 to establish an electrical contact with a ferule 5.
- the contacting projections 23 are symmetrically arranged with regard to a plane P (horizontal in Figure 6 ) passing through the longitudinal axis of the two ferules 5. They are also symmetrically arranged with regard to a plane P' (vertical in Figure 6 ) passing through the end fixation projections 26, 27.
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 shown in Figure 5 and 6 is easier to manufacture and to assemble on the housing 2, than the one shown in figure 4 .
- the elastomeric conductive seal 11 shown in Figure 5 and 6 is essentially inserted between the outer surface of the housing 2 and the outer shielding element 4 as described for the previous embodiment (the one shown in Figure 4 ).
Landscapes
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
- Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)
Abstract
An electrical power connector (1), comprising- a housing (2) having cavities (12) in which are accommodated power terminals (6) electrically connected to respective shielded cables (13), each having an individual shielding layer (15),- an shielding element (4) being mounted outside said cavities (12).The power connector (1) further comprises an elastomeric conductive seal (11) mounted on an outer surface of the housing (2), inserted between the housing (2) and the outer shielding element (4), this elastomeric conductive seal (11) having connection means (23) passing through passages (17) made in the housing (2) so as to electrically connect the shielding layers (15) to the outer shielding element (4).Method for assembling such a power connector;
Description
- The disclosure below relates to the field of power connectors. More particularly, this disclosure relates to power connectors equipped with electromagnetic shielding. Such power connectors can be used in motor vehicles.
- Indeed, for example, in the field of motor vehicles and in particular electric, hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles, high currents can be transmitted in wiring networks and/or electrical power circuits, such as those interconnecting elements such as a battery, a motor, a voltage converter, etc. Due to the electrical power involved in these applications, the shielding of cables and connectors is of paramount importance. It is therefore important to ensure the continuity of the shielding in the cable harnesses involved in these applications and in particular at the level of the connectors included in these harnesses.
- Typically, there are two types of shielded connectors for power applications: the connectors comprising a global shielding and the connectors in which the shielding is provided by a shielding continuity through individual shielded wires.
- Further, these types of connectors are usually sealed against ingress of water. Then, depending on the shielding technology (global or through individual shielded wires), the shielding elements are placed inside or outside the sealed area.
- For example, the patent document
EP3155692A1 discloses a connector with shielding elements inside the sealed area and the patent documentFR3032835A1 - The respective architectures of these two types of connectors are very different from each other. As a consequence, the counter-connectors designed to connect respectively each one of these types of connectors are also different. This multiplies the number of parts to be manufactured, stored, supply, etc., which has disadvantages in terms of economics, logistics, etc.
- The present disclosure is intended to provide a solution that at least partially reduces these drawbacks.
- For this purpose, it is proposed a power connector according to
claim 1. Thanks to this power connector, the shielding layer of individual shielded wires are connected, via the elastomeric conductive seal to the outer shielding elements. Thus, this connector can be used for both shielding technologies: global or through individual shielded wires. The connector interface remains compatible with a single reference of counter-connector. It is not necessary to manufacture two counter-connectors for use in each of these two shielding technologies. - Advantageously, this electrical connector possibly comprises one or more of the features mentioned in
claims 2 to 6, each one of these features being considered independently of each other or in combination of one or several others. - It is also disclosed below a method for assembling an electrical power connector. Advantageously, this method possibly comprises one or more of the features mentioned in
claims 8 to 10, each one of these features being considered independently of each other or in combination of one or several others. - Other features, purposes and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent on reading the following detailed description given with reference to the appended drawings and by way of non-limiting examples and in which:
-
Figure 1 is a schematic representation in perspective of an example embodiment of power connector (from which the seal retainers have been removed); - Figure 2 is a schematic perspective cross-section of the power connector shown in
Figure 1 ; -
Figure 3 is a schematic perspective cross-section of a portion of the power connector shown in Figure 2; -
Figure 4 is a schematic representation in perspective of a first embodiment example of elastomeric conductive seal; -
Figure 5 is a schematic elevation front view of a second embodiment example of elastomeric conductive seal; -
Figure 6 is a schematic representation in perspective of the second embodiment example of elastomeric conductive seal mounted in an outer shielding element. - An example of an embodiment of a
power connector 1 is shown inFigures 1 to 3 . In this example, thepower connector 1 is a 2-way female connector, but this disclosure can be transposed to other types of connectors. - In this description, adjectives such as "rear", "front", etc. refer to the mating direction of the
connector 1, the front side corresponding to the mating interface of theconnector 1 with a counter-connector. - The
connector 1 is a cable connector. It comprises in particular ahousing 2, amate assist system 3, an outer shielding element 4 (which can be formed by one or several parts), twoferules 5, two female terminals 6, two front single-wire seals 7, twoseal retainers 8, two rear single-wire seals 9, aglobal seal 10 and an elastomericconductive seal 11. - The
housing 2, themate assist system 3 and theseal retainers 9 are made of a dielectric material (for example they are made by molding). Theouter shielding element 4 and theferules 5 are made of a conductive material (for example theferules 5 are made by deep-drawing of a sheet metal). The female terminals 6 are made for example of copper or a copper alloy (although, other conductive metals can be used, such as aluminum for example). The front single-wire seals 7, the rear single-wire seals 9 and theglobal seal 10 are made of elastomeric material. The elastomericconductive seal 11 is made of elastomeric material with conductive fillers (For example, the elastomeric material is a silicone or fluorosilicone, and the fillers may comprise carbon, graphite, silver and/or copper particles). For example, the elastomericconductive seal 11 is made of a graphite mixed dry silicone. Such an elastomericconductive seal 11 has properties which are suitable for sealing theconnector 1, as well as a suitable electrical conductivity. For example, the elastomeric material with conductive fillers is chosen to achieve a resistance of less than 100mOhms, and more advantageously less than 50mOhms (for example, about 30mOhms). It has been confirmed that such a material does not reduce the performances of the shielding properties (attenuation) of theoverall connector 1. - The
housing 2 comprises twocavities 12, each one accommodating one female terminal 6. Each female terminal 6 is mechanically attached and electrically linked to a shieldedcable 13. Each shieldedcable 13 comprises, from the outside in, an outerinsulating sheath 14, a shielding layer 15 (for example a shielding braid), an inner insulating sheath and a core wire (not shown). Aferule 5 is mounted on a stripped area of each shieldedcable 13, on which a portion of the outer insulatingsheath 14 is removed to expose theshielding layer 15. A rearsingle wire seal 9 is mounted on each shieldedcable 13, on a rear portion of this stripped area. Each rear single-wire seal 9 seals acavity 12 between an inner surface of thehousing 2 and the outer insulatingsheath 14 of a shieldedcable 13. A frontsingle wire seal 7 is mounted on each shieldedcable 13, between the stripped area and a female terminal 6. For example, each frontsingle wire seal 7 is maintained on a shielded cable by a crimping portion of a female terminal 6. Each front single-wire seal 7 seals acavity 12 between an inner surface of thehousing 2 and the inner insulating sheath of a shieldedcable 13. Accordingly, eachcavity 12, as in prior art configurations, is sealed at the front and at the rear, respectively by a front single-wire seal 7 and a rear single-wire seal 9. Indeed, in prior configurations, eachcavity 12 is only open at its rear and front ends. But, further in this embodiment example, eachcavity 12 has aperipheral wall 16 comprisingpassages 17. In other words,passages 17 are made in thehousing 2, between the outer surface and the inner surface of theperipheral wall 16 of eachcavity 12. Then, an elastomericconductive seal 11 is required to complete the sealing of thecavity 12 at thepassages 17. Further, the elastomericconductive seal 11 provides an electrical continuity between theouter shielding element 4 and theferules 5. - Indeed, the
outer shielding element 4 is placed outside eachcavity 12, on an outer surface of thehousing 2 and eachferule 5 is placed inside eachcavity 12. More precisely, eachferule 5 has afixation portion 18 and funnel portion 19 (seeFigure 3 ). Thefunnel portion 19 serves to guide a free end of the shieldedcable 13 towards and in thefixation portion 18. Thefunnel portion 19 also provides a smoother and larger electrical contact area that thefixation portion 18. This improves the electrical contact between the elastomericconductive seal 11 and theferule 5. Thefixation portion 18 is tightly held on the stripped portion of the shieldedcable 13 so as to establish an electrical contact and connection between the shieldinglayer 15 of the shieldedcable 13. The elastomericconductive seal 11 is in electrical contact both with the withouter shielding element 4 and thefunnel portion 19, which is itself electrically connected to thefixation portion 18. Therefore, an electrical continuity is established between theouter shielding element 4 and theshielding layer 15 of the shieldedcable 13 through thepassages 17 via the elastomericconductive seal 11. - According to the embodiment example shown in
Figure 4 , the elastomericconductive seal 11 has an essentially oval shape. This essentially oval shape forms a closed loop or ring. This ring has an outercircumferential surface 20 and aninner surface 21. The outercircumferential surface 20 faces radially outward (of the ring shape) and is smooth. Theinner surface 21 is essentially opposite the outercircumferential surface 20, faces radially inward and includes twocrenelated sections 22 on which contactingprojections 23 extend radially inward from theinner surface 21. For example, the contactingprojections 23 form a single piece with the ring. For example, eachcrenelated section 22 comprises five contactingprojections 23. The elastomericconductive seal 11 is placed on the outer surface of thehousing 2, with one contactingprojection 23 in eachpassage 17. The elastomericconductive seal 11 is shared by the twocavities 12 of theconnector 1, but the elastomericconductive seal 11 comprises onecrenelated section 22 for eachcavity 12. The elastomericconductive seal 11 is essentially inserted between the outer surface of thehousing 2 and theouter shielding element 4, even though each contactingprojection 23 penetrates, through apassage 17, in acavity 12 to make an electrical contact with thecorresponding ferule 5. In other words, the elastomericconductive seal 11 has connection means (i. e. contacting projection 23) passing through at least onepassage 17, and such connection means electrically connects theshielding layer 15 to at least oneouter shielding element 4. - According to another embodiment example shown in
Figure 5 , the elastomericconductive seal 11 is manufactured as an open strip. This open strip can be bent so as to form a ring (seeFigure 6 ). Then, the elastomericconductive seal 11 has four contactingprojections 23, as well asfixation projections fixation projections housing 2. More particularly, the elastomericconductive seal 11 has twoend fixation projections 26 each respectively located at a free end of the open strip and onecentral fixation projection 27 located essentially in the middle of the open strip. When inserted in an opening or a notch, the two end fixation projections 26 (which are each respectively equivalent to half of the central fixation projection 27) maintain the strip as a ring. - Each contacting
projection 23 penetrates through apassage 17 to establish an electrical contact with aferule 5. In the ring formed by the elastomericconductive seal 11, the contactingprojections 23 are symmetrically arranged with regard to a plane P (horizontal inFigure 6 ) passing through the longitudinal axis of the twoferules 5. They are also symmetrically arranged with regard to a plane P' (vertical inFigure 6 ) passing through theend fixation projections - The elastomeric
conductive seal 11 shown inFigure 5 and 6 is easier to manufacture and to assemble on thehousing 2, than the one shown infigure 4 . The elastomericconductive seal 11 shown inFigure 5 and 6 is essentially inserted between the outer surface of thehousing 2 and theouter shielding element 4 as described for the previous embodiment (the one shown inFigure 4 ). - For assembling the
electrical power connector 1, the following steps, for example, are implemented. - preparing the shielded cables 13 : removing the outer insulating
sheath 14 over a portion of the free end of the shielded cables 13 (and shieldinglayer 15 and the inner insulating sheath over other portions of the free end of the shieldedcables 13, threading theseal retainers 10, the rear single-wire seals 9, the ferules 5 (theferules 5 being positioned in electrical contact with the shielding layer 15) and the front single-wire seals 7 on the free end of the shieldedcables 13, crimping the female terminals 6 on the free end of the shielded cables 13 (with a crimping portion crimped over a portion of the respective front single-wire seals 7 and another crimping portion over a portion of the core wire), - mounting the elastomeric
conductive seal 11 on the outer surface of thehousing 2, - mounting the
outer shielding element 4 on thehousing 2, - inserting each free ends of the shielded
cables 13 previously prepared in itsrespective cavity 12, - attaching the seal retainers to the
housing 2. - The order of these steps can be possibly changed by the skilled person.
Claims (10)
- An electrical power connector (1), comprising- a housing (2) made of a dielectric material, the housing (2) having at least one cavity (12), said at least one cavity (12) being configured for accommodating a power terminal (6), said power terminal (6) being electrically connected to a respective shielded cable (13) having an individual shielding layer (15),- at least one outer shielding element (4) being mounted outside said at least one cavity (12) and configured to be electrically connected to a respective shield of a counterpart connector when said power connector (1) is mated to said counterpart connector, characterized in that it comprises at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) mounted on an outer surface of the housing (2), this outer surface being opposite to an inner surface of said at least one cavity (12), at least one passage (17) made in the housing (2), between said outer surface and said inner surface, said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) being inserted between the housing (2) and said at least one outer shielding element (4), said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) having connection means (23) passing through at least one passage (17), and said connection means (23) electrically connecting the shielding layer (15) to said at least one outer shielding element (4).
- The electrical power connector (1) according to claim 1, comprising at least one ferrule (5) in electrical contact with the shielding layer (15) of a respective shielded cable (13), said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) being electrically connected to the shielding layer (15) via said ferrule (5).
- The electrical power connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) has a shape forming a closed ring, said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) having an outer circumferential surface (20) providing a sealing barrier to said at least one outer shielding element (4), and said connection means (23) of the conductive seal being formed as contacting projections extending radially from an inner surface (21) of said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) into said at least one cavity (12).
- The electrical power connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) is manufactured as an open strip configured to be bent to have an outer circumferential surface (20) providing a sealing barrier to said at least one outer shielding element (4), and said connection means (23) of the conductive seal being formed as contacting projections extending radially from an inner surface (21) of said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) into said at least one cavity (12).
- The electrical power connector (1) according to claim 4, wherein said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) comprises fixation projections (26, 27) extending radially from the inner surface (21) of said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) and inserted in notches made in the housing (2).
- The electrical power connector (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) is made of a graphite mixed dry silicone.
- A method for assembling an electrical power connector (1), this method comprising the steps of- mounting at least one outer shielding element (4) on a dielectric housing (2), the housing (2) having at least one cavity (12), said at least one cavity (12) being configured for accommodating a power terminal (6), the outer shielding element (4) being outside said at least one cavity (12) and configured to be electrically connected to a respective shield of a counterpart connector when said power connector (1) is mated to said counterpart connector,- inserting an electrical power terminal (6) in said at least one cavity (12), said power terminal (6) being electrically connected to a respective shielded cable (13) having an individual shielding layer (15),characterized in that this method further comprises, prior to the step of mounting said at least one outer shielding element (4), a step of mounting an elastomeric conductive seal (11) on an outer surface of the housing (2), this outer surface being opposite to an inner surface of said at least two cavities (12), the elastomeric conductive seal (11) being inserted, once said at least one outer shielding element (4) mounted on the housing (2), between the housing (2) and said at least one outer shielding element (4), the elastomeric conductive seal having connection means (23) passing through at least one passage made in the housing (2), between said outer surface and said inner surface, for electrically connecting the shielding layer (15) to said at least one outer shielding element (4).
- The method of claim 7, comprising a step of mounting at least one ferrule (5) in electrical contact with the shielding layer (15) of a respective shielded cable (13) and comprising a step of inserting, in said at least one cavity (12), the corresponding power terminal (6), a portion of the shielded cable (13) connected to this power terminal (6) and said at least one ferrule (5), so that the elastomeric conductive seal be electrically connected to the shielding layer (15) via said at least one ferrule (5).
- The method of claim 7 or 8, wherein the step of mounting said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) on the housing (2), comprises providing the elastomeric conductive seal (11) as a strip extending between two free ends, and bending it on the housing (2) so as to form a ring shape.
- The method of any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the step of mounting said at least one elastomeric conductive seal (11) on the housing (2), comprises inserting fixation projections (26, 27) in notches formed in the housing (2).
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP22214025.3A EP4387002A1 (en) | 2022-12-15 | 2022-12-15 | Power connector with a conductive seal |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP22214025.3A EP4387002A1 (en) | 2022-12-15 | 2022-12-15 | Power connector with a conductive seal |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4387002A1 true EP4387002A1 (en) | 2024-06-19 |
Family
ID=84537428
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22214025.3A Pending EP4387002A1 (en) | 2022-12-15 | 2022-12-15 | Power connector with a conductive seal |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4387002A1 (en) |
Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060110977A1 (en) * | 2004-11-24 | 2006-05-25 | Roger Matthews | Connector having conductive member and method of use thereof |
US7393218B1 (en) * | 2007-03-19 | 2008-07-01 | Lear Corporation | Connector assembly with overmolded shielded housing |
FR2981210A1 (en) * | 2011-10-10 | 2013-04-12 | Leoni Wiring Systems France | Connection device for connecting shielded cable on case in electrical circuit of e.g. electric car, has electrically conductive sleeve forming sealing bridge between sealing sheath of cable and electrically insulating sheath |
US20150288108A1 (en) * | 2014-04-03 | 2015-10-08 | Cooper Technologies Company | Grounding for Electrical Connectors |
FR3032835A1 (en) | 2015-02-17 | 2016-08-19 | Delphi Int Operations Luxembourg Sarl | METHOD OF FIXING AN ELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR PASSAGE DEVICE THROUGH A WALL AND DEVICE FOR IMPLEMENTING SAID METHOD |
EP3155692A1 (en) | 2014-06-12 | 2017-04-19 | Delphi International Operations Luxembourg S.à r.l. | Shielded electrical connector and production method thereof |
US20200280150A1 (en) * | 2019-02-28 | 2020-09-03 | J.S.T. Corporation | Method for electromagnetic interference (emi) protection for a connector assembly using a conductive seal |
US11450990B2 (en) * | 2019-02-25 | 2022-09-20 | J.S.T. Corporation | Method for shielding and grounding a connector assembly from electromagnetic interference (EMI) using a male/female joint stamped shield and conductive seal |
-
2022
- 2022-12-15 EP EP22214025.3A patent/EP4387002A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060110977A1 (en) * | 2004-11-24 | 2006-05-25 | Roger Matthews | Connector having conductive member and method of use thereof |
US7393218B1 (en) * | 2007-03-19 | 2008-07-01 | Lear Corporation | Connector assembly with overmolded shielded housing |
FR2981210A1 (en) * | 2011-10-10 | 2013-04-12 | Leoni Wiring Systems France | Connection device for connecting shielded cable on case in electrical circuit of e.g. electric car, has electrically conductive sleeve forming sealing bridge between sealing sheath of cable and electrically insulating sheath |
US20150288108A1 (en) * | 2014-04-03 | 2015-10-08 | Cooper Technologies Company | Grounding for Electrical Connectors |
EP3155692A1 (en) | 2014-06-12 | 2017-04-19 | Delphi International Operations Luxembourg S.à r.l. | Shielded electrical connector and production method thereof |
FR3032835A1 (en) | 2015-02-17 | 2016-08-19 | Delphi Int Operations Luxembourg Sarl | METHOD OF FIXING AN ELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR PASSAGE DEVICE THROUGH A WALL AND DEVICE FOR IMPLEMENTING SAID METHOD |
US11450990B2 (en) * | 2019-02-25 | 2022-09-20 | J.S.T. Corporation | Method for shielding and grounding a connector assembly from electromagnetic interference (EMI) using a male/female joint stamped shield and conductive seal |
US20200280150A1 (en) * | 2019-02-28 | 2020-09-03 | J.S.T. Corporation | Method for electromagnetic interference (emi) protection for a connector assembly using a conductive seal |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CN108475889B (en) | High-power electric connector | |
US3670293A (en) | Shielded wire connectors | |
US7601029B2 (en) | Electric connector assembly kit and shielded cable harness | |
US7064266B2 (en) | Shielded connector | |
CN108631095B (en) | Contact carrier, electrical contact unit and method for producing a ready-made cable | |
KR20190034116A (en) | Electrical contact device, electrical connecting unit and method for assembling an electrical cable | |
EP1548899A1 (en) | A shielded connector | |
US11664629B2 (en) | Assembly comprising a connector and a cable | |
EP1744409A2 (en) | A shielded connector and method of connecting it with a shielded cable | |
US20210066856A1 (en) | Connector for automotive applications | |
US20220115822A1 (en) | Connector, and connector structure | |
CN112490735B (en) | Connector and assembly for automotive applications | |
JP2018181456A (en) | Inner conductor terminal and shield connector | |
US9928939B1 (en) | Device and method for splicing shielded wire cables | |
TW201212428A (en) | Coaxial connector and substrate connector | |
US20230335956A1 (en) | Shielded electrical connector for automotive applications and method of assembling thereof | |
EP0125760A1 (en) | Connector plug having shielding enclosure | |
CN113196590A (en) | Connector structure and method for manufacturing connector structure | |
US11837834B2 (en) | Connector structure, and connector structure manufacturing method | |
US20180294629A1 (en) | Device and method for splicing shielded wire cables | |
EP4387002A1 (en) | Power connector with a conductive seal | |
EP3783754A1 (en) | Connector for automotive applications | |
JP7128511B2 (en) | shield connector | |
JP2011060426A (en) | Connector | |
US20220200171A1 (en) | Communication cable with connector and connector assembly |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC ME MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |