FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a switch apparatus. More specifically, the invention relates to four aspects, including (1) a switch housing assembly, (2) a fuse unit, (3) an electrical connector and (4) a connector housing having elastic arm.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Switch apparatus is commonly used in electric circuits for safety purpose. For example, switch apparatus can comprise various devices including switch housing assembly, fuse units, electrical connector and connector housing having elastic arm and can be extensively applied to industrial products such as vehicles.

I. Switch Housing Assembly

In various circuits, particularly in a high-voltage circuit, a switch needs to be used to control ON and OFF of the high-voltage circuit. A commonly-used switch generally comprises two pluggable and extractable housings which are connected in a pluggable and extractable manner. A commonly-used housing is made of plastic materials and it does not have electromagnetic shielding function. Such type of switches is confronted with electromagnetic wave leakage in use, which limits the fields to which the switches are applied.

Furthermore, when two housings are drawn apart, an auxiliary handle is often used for help. A handle of the commonly-used switch is disposed on the outer surface of the housing of a plug, the housing of the plug covers the housing of a socket. The handle is completely exposed without any structure to protect it, it is vulnerable to damages during use.

Since the plug is plugged and unplugged frequently, it is vulnerable to damages, after which the plug has to be replaced. Since the plug includes many parts, it is costly to replace the plug. A configuration having vertical hooks 101 as shown in Fig. 1-1 is usually employed to increase stability of connection. Vertical hooks 101 provided on one of the housings hook onto the structures in the other housing, which is matched with the hooks 101. Since the vertical hooks 101 are usually made of plastic materials, they have a certain degree of elasticity. On those occasions where the switch needs to be plugged and unplugged frequently, the vertical hooks 101 might be easily broken. To protect the vertical hooks 101, the product shown in Fig. 1-1 is further designed with a horizontal hook 102. The horizontal hook 102 may prevent damages to the vertical hooks 101 due to pressing or pulling excessively during plugging and unplugging the housings. Although this design of the structure solves the protection issue of the vertical hooks 101, it brings about the drawbacks including the structure of the switch housing being complicated, the mold being difficult to be designed and the production cost being high.

It usually requires that the switch device in the high- voltage circuit employ a two-step snap-fitting to meet the requirement of releasing the snap-fitting through two consecutive steps upon unplugging. Most of the current stepped snap-fittings are complicated in structures and are costly.

II. Fuse Unit

The manual service switch is a commonly-used electrical connector on vehicles too. The manual service switch usually comprises an insertion end and a socket terminal which are connected with each other in an insertable and extractable manner. The insertion end is provided with a fuse unit and insertion terminals. Two insertion terminals are independently connected with both ends of the fuse unit respectively. In use, both insertion terminals of the insertion end are connected with mating terminals of the socket terminal in an insertable and extractable manner.

Since the two insertion terminals are independently connected with both ends of the fuse unit respectively, and they are by no means mechanically connected to each other. Hence, during practical use, it is very difficult to precisely mount the two insertion terminals in place. Since the insertion terminals of the insertion end need to mate with the mating terminals of the socket terminal, inaccurate position of the insertion terminals causes the insertion and extraction force of the insertion terminals and mating terminals to exceed the specification and, when seriously, affect mating surfaces of the mating terminals and affect electrical performance. III. Electrical Connector

High-voltage interlocking electrical connector is a special requirement in the field of electrical connection of the vehicles and mainly abides by a two-segment type separation (e.g., five-second delay) rule. Specifically first a low-voltage control circuit in the electrical connector is disconnected, and after a pause about five seconds (during which electrical energy stored in the high-voltage power source or high-voltage device is released), the high-voltage circuit of the electrical connector is then disconnected. This function requirement has already been extensively applied to the North American vehicle industry and gradually accepted by European vehicle industry.

The low-voltage circuit needs to be powered by a low-voltage power source. Outward connection of the low-voltage circuit of the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector is implemented via a wire. The length of the wire is not easy to set for the electrical connector employing wire connection. Since the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector is produced by using a standardized assembly line, parts thereof have size and specification of the same standard. During production, if the wire is too short, it would not be used on some occasions. If the wire is too long, it is not transported and stored conveniently and needs to be cut on undesired occasions. Therefore, no matter how the length of the wire is set, such structured connector is not used conveniently.

IV. Connector Housing Having Elastic Arm

A commonly-used switch generally comprises two pluggable and extractable housings which are connected in a pluggable and extractable manner. The structure of vertical hooks 401 as shown in Fig. 4-1 is usually employed to increase stability of connection. Vertical hooks 401 provided on one of the housings hook onto mating structures in the other housing. Since vertical hooks 401 are usually made of a plastic material, it has certain elasticity. On occasions where the switch needs to be inserted and extracted frequently, the vertical hooks might be broken by pressing or pulling it.

To protect the vertical hooks 401, the product shown in Fig. 4-1 is further designed with a transverse hook 402. The transverse hook 402 may prevent damages to the vertical hooks 401 due to excessively pressing or pulling the vertical hooks 401 during inserting and extracting the housings. Although this structure design solves the protection issue of the vertical hooks 401, it brings about drawbacks that the switch housing is structurally complicated, the mold for the switch housing is hard to design and the production cost is high.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relate to four aspects as follows:

Part I: Switch Housing Assembly

A first objective of the present invention is to provide a switch housing assembly having an electromagnetic shielding function, to overcome the drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A switch housing assembly, characterized in that the switch housing assembly comprises a first housing comprising a first sidewall and a first top panel encompassing a first cavity and a second housing comprising a second sidewall and a second top panel encompassing a second cavity;

the first housing and the second housing are conductive housings; the first sidewall of the first housing is plugged in the second cavity of the second housing in a pluggable and extractable manner; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the first housing is electrically connected with the second housing.

Preferably, an outer surface of the first housing is provided with a metal coating; the second housing is a metal housing; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the metal coating contacts the second housing.

Preferably, a handle is mounted on the first housing; the handle is pivotally mounted on the first sidewall; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the handle is at least partially located in the second cavity.

Preferably, the handle is U-shaped; the U-shaped handle comprises a handle portion and two connection arms respectively connected to two ends of the handle portion and respectively pivotally connected to two sides of the first sidewall; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the two connection arms may pivot into the second cavity. Preferably, the switch housing assembly further comprises an assisting structure which connects the two connection arms to two sides of the second sidewall, respectively.

Preferably, the outer surface of the first sidewall of the first housing is configured with an elastic arm comprising a connection portion and an elastic portion; one end of the elastic portion is connected to the outer surface of the first sidewall via the connection portion; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the elastic arm contacts the second sidewall or, is subjected to an elastic deformation as being pressed by the second sidewall.

Preferably, the elastic arm further comprises a spring leaf which connects the other end of the elastic portion to the outer surface of the first sidewall.

Preferably, the thickness of the spring leaf is smaller than that of one or both of the connection portion and the elastic portion.

Preferably, the outer surface of the elastic portion is configured with protrusions protruding on the outer surface of the elastic portion; the second sidewall is provided with slide slots; and the slide slots are through slots passing through the second sidewall; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the protrusions are inserted in the slide slots and spaced apart from top ends of the slide slots by a distance D and the protrusions are moveable in the slide slot.

Preferably, the second cavity is configured with a sealing gasket; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the first sidewall presses against the sealing gasket.

A second objective of the present invention is to provide a switch device having an electromagnetic shielding function, to overcome the drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A switch device, characterized in that the switch device comprises a housing assembly and a connection terminal assembly; the housing assembly comprises a first housing comprising a first sidewall and a first top panel encompassing a first cavity and a second housing comprising a second sidewall and a second top panel encompassing a second cavity; the first housing and the second housing are conductive housings; the first sidewall of the first housing is plugged in the second cavity of the second housing in a pluggable and extractable manner; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the first housing is electrically connected with the second housing;

the connection terminal assembly comprises male terminals and female terminals; the male terminals are connected with the female terminals in a pluggable and extractable manner; one of the male terminals and the female terminals are disposed in the first cavity, and the other are disposed in the second cavity;

when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the male terminals are plugged into the female terminals in a pluggable and extractable manner.

Preferably, an outer surface of the first housing is provided with a metal coating; the second housing is a metal housing; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the outer surface of the first sidewall contacts the second housing.

Preferably, a handle is mounted on the first housing; the handle is mounted on the first sidewall; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the handle is at least partially located in the second cavity.

Preferably, the handle is U-shaped; the U-shaped handle comprises a handle portion and two connection arms respectively connected to two ends of the handle and respectively pivotally connected to two sides of the first sidewall; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the two connection arms may pivot into the second cavity.

Preferably, the switch device further comprises an assisting structure which respectively connects the two connection arms to two sides of the second sidewall.

Preferably, the outer surface of the first sidewall of the first housing is configured with an elastic arm comprising a connection portion and an elastic portion; one end of the elastic portion is connected to the outer surface of the first sidewall via the connection portion; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the elastic arm contacts the second sidewall or, is subjected to an elastic deformation as being pressed by the second sidewall.

Preferably, the elastic arm further comprises a spring leaf which connects the other end of the elastic portion to the outer surface of the first sidewall.

Preferably, the thickness of the spring leaf is smaller than that of one or both of the connection portion and the elastic portion. Preferably, protrusions are provided on the outer surface of the elastic portion; the protrusions protrude on the outer surface of the elastic portion; the second sidewall is provided with slide slots which are through slots passing through the second sidewall; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the protrusions are inserted in the slide slots and spaced apart from top ends of the slide slots by a distance D and the protrusions are moveable in the slide slots.

Preferably, the number of both the male terminals and the female terminals is two; a fuse protector is provided on a connection circuit of the two male terminals.

A third objective of the present invention is to provide a connector assembly having an electromagnetic shielding function, to overcome the drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A connector assembly, characterized in that the connector assembly comprises the switch housing assembly and a connection terminal assembly; the connection terminal assembly comprises male terminals and female terminals; the male terminals are connected with the female terminals in a pluggable and extractable manner; one of the male terminals and the female terminals are disposed in the first cavity, and the other are disposed in the second cavity; when the first sidewall is plugged in the second cavity, the male terminals are plugged into the female terminals.

In the switch housing assembly, the switch device and the connector assembly of the present invention, both the first housing and second housing are electrically conductive and have the electromagnetic shielding function. Therefore, the switch housing assembly, the switch device and the connector assembly of the present invention are applicable in more occasions.

During use, the handle may be protected by the second housing so that the handle is safer in use with less risk of damages. The sealing gasket is disposed in the second housing, therefore, the number of parts of the first housing is reduced. As a result, the cost for replacing the first housing is lower. The elastic arm configured with a spring leaf on its top end is provided on the first sidewall. When the elastic arm is pressed, the spring leaf may provide a supporting force to the elastic arm to prevent the elastic arm from being damaged due to the elastic arm being pressed excessively. When the elastic arm needs to be pulled, the spring leaf may provide a certain degree of anti-pulling support to prevent the elastic arm being damaged due to being pulled excessively. The thickness of the spring leaf is smaller than that of the elastic arm so that the spring leaf does not excessively weaken the elasticity of the elastic arm to deprive it of the elasticity performance. Therefore, it is convenient and safe to use the elastic arm. Furthermore, the present invention provides a simple structure, facilitates the design of the molds and reduces the production costs.

Part II. Fuse Unit

A fourth objective of the present invention is to provide a novel fuse unit capable of ensuring precise mounting positions of the two insertion terminals, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A fuse unit, comprising a main body in which a fuse is disposed; characterized in that, the novel fuse unit further comprises two insertion terminals; each of said insertion terminals is connected to the main body via a conductive adapter; the two conductive adapters are respectively electrically connected to one end of the fuse.

Preferably, the two conductive adapters are connected as one piece via an insulator.

Preferably, the conductive adapter comprises a mounting segment and an adapting segment; the mounting segment and the adapting segment form an L-shaped structure; the mounting segment is connected to a sidewall of the main body; the insertion terminal is disposed on the adapting segment.

Preferably, the adapting segment is disposed parallel to a front surface of the main body.

Preferably, the adapting segments of the two conductive adapters are connected with each other via an insulator.

Preferably, the insulator encases part or all of the adapting segments of the two conductive adapters.

Preferably, the insulator comprises a flat panel-shaped insulating bush and a sleeve; the insulating bush encases part or all of the adapting segments of the two conductive adapters; the sleeve surrounds the insertion terminal and a gap is provided between the sleeve and the insertion terminal.

Preferably, the sleeve and the insulating bush are arranged in an integrally-formed manner.

Preferably, the insulator and the two conductive adapters are connected with each other in an insert injection molding manner.

Preferably, the two conductive adapters are formed in such a way that a U-shaped conductive adapter is provided with an insulator in an insert injection molding manner and then punched into two independent L-shaped conductive adapters.

A fifth objective of the present invention is to provide a novel connector capable of ensuring precise mounting positions of the two insertion terminals, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A connector, characterized in that, it comprises a first housing and the aforesaid novel fuse unit, the first housing is provided with a first cavity; the novel fuse unit is disposed in the first cavity of the first housing.

Preferably, the novel connector is a manual service disconnect.

A sixth objective of the present invention is to provide a connector assembly capable of ensuring precise mounting positions of the two insertion terminals, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A connector assembly, characterized in that it comprises the aforesaid novel connector and a second housing, the first housing and the second housing are connected with each other in an insertable and extractable manner, mating terminals are disposed in the second housing, and the mating terminals are connected with the insertion terminals in an insertable and extractable manner; when the first housing is insert-connected with the second housing, the insertion terminals are insert-connected with the mating terminals.

Preferably, the connector is a manual service disconnect. A seventh objective of the present invention is to provide a conductive adapting assembly capable of ensuring precise mounting positions of the two insertion terminals, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A conductive adapting assembly, characterized in that it comprises two conductive adapters and an insulator, and the two conductive adapters are mechanically connected as one piece via the insulator.

Preferably, the conductive adapter comprises a mounting segment and an adapting segment; the mounting segment and the adapting segment form an L-shaped structure.

Preferably, the adapting segment is disposed parallel to a front surface of the main body.

Preferably, the adapting segments of the two conductive adapters are insulatively connected with each other via an insulator.

Preferably, the insulator encases part or all of the adapting segments of the two conductive adapters.

Preferably, the conductive adapting assembly further comprises two insertion terminals which are respectively electrically connected with the two conductive adapters; the insulator comprises a flat panel-shaped insulating bush and a sleeve; the insulating bush encases part or all of the adapting segments of the two conductive adapters; the sleeve surrounds the insertion terminal and a gap is provided between the sleeve and the insertion terminal.

Preferably, each of said insertion terminals is mounted on one of the adapting segments.

Preferably, the sleeve and the insulating bush are arranged in an integrally-formed manner.

Preferably, the insulator and the two conductive adapters are connected with each other in an insert injection molding manner.

Preferably, the two conductive adapters are formed in such a way that a U-shaped conductive adapter is provided with an insulator in an insert injection molding manner and then punched into two independent L-shaped conductive adapters. According to the fuse unit, the connector, the connector assembly and the conductive adapting assembly of the present invention, two conductive adapters are connected with each other via an insulator, which may improve accuracy of the position of the insertion terminals as well as ensure stability of the two conductive adapters and insertion terminals during use so that the insertion terminals can be easily inserted into or extracted out of the mating terminals without damaging the mating terminals. By using an insert injection molded structure, the insertion terminals may be first mounted on a U-shaped conductive adapter, then an insulator is made to encase the conductive adapter through insert injection molding, and then the U-shaped conductive adapter is punched into two independent L-shaped conductive adapters. In this way, it may ensure firm and stable connection of the two independent conducive adapters and precise position of the insertion terminals.

Part III. Electrical Connector

An eighth objective of the present invention is to provide a conveniently useable electrical connector, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

An electrical connector, comprising a housing which is provided with a cavity in which a low-voltage circuit control device is disposed, characterized in that the low-voltage circuit control device is provided with a switch end and connection end, and the connection end is provided with two output terminals; each output terminal is electrically connected with a first metal contact pin; the switch end is located in the cavity; the first metal contact pin protrudes out of a bottom external surface of the housing.

Preferably, the bottom external surface of the housing is provided with a guard plate, the guard plate extends from the bottom external surface of the connector housing and is disposed surrounding the first metal contact pin; the length that the guard plate extends from the bottom external surface of the connector housing is greater than the length that the first metal contact pin protrudes out of the bottom external surface of the housing.

Preferably, the guard plate is disposed surrounding the whole periphery of the first metal contact pin, forming a first pluggable housing. Preferably, the electrical connector further comprises a connecting member, the connecting member comprises a second pluggable housing and a second metal contact pin, the second metal contact pin is disposed on the second pluggable housing; the second pluggable housing is plug-connected with the first pluggable housing in a pluggable and extractable manner, and the second metal contact pin is electrically connected with the first metal contact pin.

Preferably, the first metal contact pin and the output terminal are separately formed and then fixedly connected together to be formed as one piece.

Preferably, the first metal contact pin comprises a connection segment and a mating segment; the connection segment is fixedly connected with the output terminal, and the mating segment extends in the same direction as the output terminal.

Preferably, the connecting segment is connected with the output terminal by welding.

Preferably, the first metal contact pin comprises a connection segment with a shorter length and a mating segment with a longer length; the connection segment and the mating segment are connected to each other into an L shape; the connection segment is connected with the output terminal, and the mating segment runs through the housing and protrudes out of the bottom external surface of the housing.

Preferably, the switch end on the low-voltage circuit control device comprises two switch contact points and an elastic sheet; the two switch contact points are respectively electrically connected with the two output terminals; and the elastic sheet may be selectively electrically connected with the two switch contact points.

A ninth objective of the present invention is to provide a conveniently useable electrical connector, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A low-voltage circuit control device, comprising a switch housing, two output terminals and an elastic sheet; the switch housing has a switch end and a connection end; the two output terminals are inserted from the connection end into the switch housing and extend out of the switch end to form two switch contact points; one end of the elastic sheet is electrically connected to one of the switch contact points, and the other end thereof is disposed elastically; the other end of the elastic sheet is, after being pressed, electrically connected with the other of the switch contact points and generates an elastic force, and after disappearance of the pressure, the elastic force releases the elastic sheet from electrical connection with the other of the switch contact points; each output terminal is connected with a first metal contact pin.

Preferably, the first metal contact pin comprises a connection segment and a mating segment; the connection segment is fixedly connected with the output terminal, and the mating segment extends in the same direction as the output terminal.

A tenth objective of the present invention is to provide a conveniently useable high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly, comprising the electrical connector and a mating connector; the electrical connector further comprises two mating high- voltage terminals; the mating connector comprises a mating housing, two high- voltage terminals and a fuse protector; the mating housing is provided with a mating cavity; the mating housing is inserted in the cavity in a pluggable and extractable manner; the two mating high-voltage terminals are electrically connected via the fuse protector; the mating high-voltage terminals and the fuse protector are disposed in the mating cavity, and the high- voltage terminals are disposed in the cavity.

Preferably, when the electrical connector is plug-connected with the mating housing, the mating connector presses the elastic sheet to make it contact with both of the two switch contact points.

In the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector in the present invention, outward connection of the low-voltage circuit control device is implemented via the first metal contact pin. If the first metal contact pin is not long enough, the pluggable connection member extends the length of electrical connection by using a second metal contact pin. The housing is provided with the guard plate which may protect the metal contact pin from damage, or may be provided with a corresponding structure to facilitate connection with the adapter. The present invention is adapted for many occasions and used conveniently.

Part IV. Connector Housing Having Elastic Arm

An eleventh objective of the present invention is to provide a connector housing with a simple structure and having an elastic arm, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art. In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A connector housing having an elastic arm, characterized in that the connector housing comprises a first housing; the first housing comprises a first sidewall and a top panel; the first sidewall and the top panel encompass to form a first cavity;

an elastic arm is disposed on an outer surface of the first sidewall of the first housing; the elastic arm comprises a connection portion and an elastic portion; one end of the connection portion is connected to the outer surface of the first sidewall, and the other end is connected to the elastic portion; a bottom end of the elastic portion is connected with the connection portion and extends from the connection portion.

Preferably, the elastic portion extends from the connection portion towards the top panel; a top end of the elastic portion is connected with the first sidewall via an elastic sheet.

Preferably, the thickness of the elastic sheet is smaller than that of one of the connection portion and the elastic portion or that of both the connection portion and the elastic portion.

Preferably, the elastic portion extends in a direction parallel to the first sidewall.

A twelfth objective of the present invention is to provide a connector housing assembly with a simple structure, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A connector housing assembly, characterized in that it comprises the above-mentioned connector housing having an elastic arm, and a second housing which comprises a second sidewall and a bottom panel; the second sidewall and the bottom panel encompass to form a second cavity; the first sidewall of the first housing is inserted in the second cavity of the second housing in a pluggable and extractable manner; when the first sidewall is inserted in the second cavity, the elastic arm contacts the second sidewall or is pressed by the second sidewall to generate elastic deformation.

Preferably, protrusions are provided on an outer surface of the elastic portion; the protrusions protrude out of the outer surface of the elastic portion; the second sidewall is provided with slide slots; when the first sidewall is inserted in the second cavity, the protrusions are inserted in the slide slots.

Preferably, the slide slots are through slots running through the second sidewall; when the first sidewall is inserted in the second cavity, the protrusions are inserted in the slide slots.

Preferably, there is a certain distance between the protrusions and top ends of the slide slots; the protrusions are moveable in the slide slots.

A thirteenth objective of the present invention is to provide a connector with a simple structure, to overcome drawbacks in the prior art.

In order to achieve the above objective, the present invention is implemented with the following technical solution:

A connector, characterized in that it comprises a connector housing having an elastic arm, and one of a male terminal and a female terminal; the connector housing having the elastic arm comprises a first housing; the first housing comprises a first sidewall and a top panel; the first sidewall and the top panel encompass to form a first cavity; an elastic arm is disposed on an outer surface of the first sidewall of the first housing; the elastic arm comprises a connection portion and an elastic portion; one end of the connection portion is connected to the outer surface of the first sidewall, and the other end is connected to the elastic portion; a bottom end of the elastic portion is connected with the connection portion and extends from the connection portion;

The male terminal or female terminal is disposed in the first cavity.

Preferably, the elastic portion extends from the connection portion towards the top panel; a top end of the elastic portion is connected with the first sidewall via an elastic sheet.

Preferably, the thickness of the elastic sheet is smaller than that of one of the connection portion and the elastic portion or that of both the connection portion and the elastic portion. Preferably, the elastic portion extends in a direction parallel to the first sidewall.

Preferably, the connector further comprises a second housing, a male terminal and a female terminal; the second housing comprises a second sidewall and a bottom panel; the second sidewall and the bottom panel encompass to form a second cavity; one of the male terminal and the female terminal is disposed in the first cavity, and the other is disposed in the second cavity; the first sidewall of the first housing is inserted in the second cavity of the second housing in a pluggable and extractable manner; when the first sidewall is inserted in the second cavity, the male terminal is plug-connected with the female terminal in a pluggable and extractable manner.

Preferably, protrusions are provided on an outer surface of the elastic portion, and the protrusions protrude out of the outer surface of the elastic portion.

Preferably, the second sidewall is provided with slide slots; the slide slots are through slots running through the second sidewall; when the first sidewall is inserted in the second cavity, the protrusions are inserted in the slide slots; there is a certain distance between the protrusions and top ends of the slide slots; the protrusions are moveable in the slide slots.

Preferably, the number of both the male terminal and the female terminal is two; a fuse unit is provided on a connection circuit of the two male terminals.

Preferably, when the first sidewall is inserted in the second cavity, the elastic arm contacts the second sidewall or is pressed by the second sidewall to generate elastic deformation.

The connector housing having the elastic arm, the connector housing assembly and the connector according to the present invention, the elastic arm is provided on the first sidewall, and the elastic sheet is provided at the top end of the elastic arm; when the elastic arm is pressed, the elastic sheet may provide a supporting force for the elastic arm to prevent damages due to overpressure. When the elastic arm needs to be pulled, the elastic sheet may provide certain pulling support and prevent damages to the elastic arm due to excessive pulling. The thickness of the elastic sheet is smaller than that of the elastic arm, the elasticity of the elastic arm is not excessively weakened so that the elastic arm will not lose elasticity performance, and therefore convenient and safe use is provided. Furthermore, the present invention exhibits a simple structure, easy mold design and low production costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Fig. 1-1 is a schematic view of the structure of hooks.

Fig. 1-2 is a schematic view of the structure of a switch device according to the present invention.

Fig. 1-3 is an exploded view of the structure of the switch device according to the present invention.

Fig. 1-4 is a schematic view of the structure of a first housing in the present invention. Fig. 1-5 is a schematic view of the structure of a second housing of the present invention.

Fig. 1-6 is a schematic view of the structure of the present invention when the first housing is plugged in the second housing.

Fig. 1-7 is a partial enlarged view of Fig. 1-6.

Fig. 1-8 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 1-6.

Fig. 1-9 is a cross-sectional view when the first housing and the second housing complete the first-step separation state.

Fig. 2-1 A and Fig. 2- IB are respectively a schematic view and an exploded view of embodiment 1 according to the present invention.

Fig. 2-2A and Fig. 2-2B are schematic view of a conductive adapting assembly from different view angles.

Fig. 2-3A and Fig. 2-3B are respectively an exploded view and a schematic view of a first housing and a fuse unit in Embodiment 2 according to the present invention.

Fig. 2-4A and Fig. 2-4B are respectively an exploded view and a cross sectional view in an in-use state of Embodiment 3 according to the present invention.

Fig. 3-1 is an exploded view of a high- voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly according to the present invention.

Fig. 3-2 is a cross sectional view of the electrical connector.

Fig. 3-3 is a view of Fig. 3-2 as viewed from another angle.

Fig. 3-4 is a schematic view of a low- voltage circuit control device.

Fig. 3-5 is a schematic view illustrating cooperation of a low-voltage circuit switch, a first metal needle and an adapter. Fig. 3-6 is a cross sectional view of a low-voltage circuit control device upon energization in the high- voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly of Fig. 3-1.

Fig. 3-7 is a cross sectional view of a low-voltage circuit control device upon de-energization in the high- voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly of Fig. 3-1.

Fig. 4-1 is a schematic view the structure of the hooks structure.

Fig. 4-2 is a schematic view of the structure of a connector structure according to the present invention.

Fig. 4-3 is an exploded view of the structure of the connector structure according to the present invention.

Fig. 4-4 is a schematic view of the structure of a first housing structure in the invention. Fig. 4-5 is a side view of Fig. 4-4.

Fig. 4-6 is a schematic view of the structure of a second housing structure.

Fig. 4-7 is a cross sectional view of the structure of the present invention, wherein the first housing is inserted in the second housing.

Fig. 4-8 is a cross sectional view of the structure of the present invention, illustrating a state when a first-phase separation between the first housing and the second housing is completed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Part I. Switch Housing Assembly

As shown in Fig. 1-2 through Fig. 1-5, a switch device comprises a housing assembly and a connection terminal assembly. The connection terminal assembly is used for electrical connection. The housing assembly is used to hold the connection terminal assembly.

The housing assembly according to the present invention comprises a first housing 1010 and a second housing 1020. The first housing 1010 comprises a first sidewall 1011 and a first top panel 1012. The first sidewall 1011 and the first top panel 1012 encompass a first cavity 1013. The second housing 1020 comprises a second sidewall 1021 and a second top panel 1022. The second sidewall 1021 and the second top panel 1022 encompass a second cavity 1023. The second cavity 1023 of the second housing 1020 is configured to receive the first housing 1010. The second cavity 1023 is configured with a sealing gasket 1024 for sealing between the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020.

The housing assembly according to the present invention is a shielding structure. Preferably, the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 respectively comprise a shielding material. That is to say, the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 are respectively a shielding housing. For example, the outer surface of the first housing 1010 and the inner surface of the second housing 1020 are respectively provided with a metal coating. For another example, the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 are respectively made of a shielding material (e.g., a metal material). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the outer surface of the first housing 1010 is provided with a metal coating 1017, and the second housing 1020 is a metal housing.

The first housing 1010 is interconnected with the second housing 1020 via a shielding connecting structure. In an example as shown in the figures, an elastic arm 1014 is disposed on the outer surface of the first sidewall 1011 of the first housing 1010. The elastic arm 1014 comprises a connection portion 10141 and an elastic portion 10142. One end of the connection portion 10141 is connected to the outer surface of the first sidewall 1011, and the other end is connected to the elastic portion 10142. One end of the elastic portion 10142 is connected with the connection portion 10141, and extends from the connection portion 10141 towards the first top panel 1012. After the first housing 1010 is plugged into the second housing 1020, the elastic portion 10142 of the elastic arm 1014, due to the pressure of the second sidewall 1021 of the second housing 1020, approaches the first sidewall 1011 and generates elastic deformation, and meanwhile, connects the first housing 1010 with the second housing 1020. In an example of the present invention, the elastic arm 1014 may be made of a shielding material (e.g., a metal material).

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the other end of the elastic portion 10142 is connected with the first sidewall 1011 via a spring leaf 1015. The thickness of the spring leaf 1015 is smaller than that of one of the connection portion 10141 and the elastic portion 10142 or than that of both the connection portion 10141 and the elastic portion 10142. Preferably, the thickness of the spring leaf 1015 is smaller than that of the connection portion 10141 and the elastic portion 10142. The spring leaf 1015 may prevent the elastic arm 1014 (or elastic portion 10142) from being unexpectedly moved away from the first sidewall 1011, which causes deformation or even rupture of the elastic arm 1014.

The housing assembly may further comprise an assisting mechanism. As shown in the figures, the assisting mechanism comprises a handle 1030. The handle 1030 is U-shaped. The handle 1030 comprises two connection arms 1031 and a handle portion 1032. The two connection arms 1031 are respectively connected to the two ends of the handle portion 1032. The two connection arms 1031 are pivotally connected on two sides of the first sidewall 1011 of the first housing 1010. As shown in Fig. 1-4 and Fig. 1-5, the handle 1030 is held at a final locked position via a locking mechanism 1019. The connection arms 1031 of the handle 1030 are movably connected with the second housing 1020 via an assisting structure 1018 (e.g., a cam structure). When the connection arms 1031 pivot relative to the first housing 1010, the connection arms 1031 manipulate the assisting structure to separate the first housing 1010 from the second housing 1020.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the housing assembly further comprises a stepped-separation mechanism. In an example as shown in the figures, the second sidewall 1021 of the second housing 1020 is provided with slide slots 1025. The slide slots 1025 are through slots passing through the wall thickness of the second sidewall 1021. Protrusions 1016 are provided on the outer surface of the elastic portion 10142 of the elastic arm 1014. The protrusions 1016 protrude on the outer surface of the elastic portion 10142. As shown in Fig. 1-4, when the first housing 1010 is plugged into the second housing 1020 and after the handle 1030 of the assisting mechanism is pivoted to the final locked position, the protrusions 1016 are disposed in the slide slots 1025 on the sidewall 1021 and spaced apart from the top ends 10251 of the slide slots 1025 by a distance D.

When the present invention is used, as shown in Fig. 1-6 through Fig. 1-8, the first sidewall 1011 of the first housing 1010 is plugged into the second cavity 1023 of the second housing 1020 in a pluggable and extractable manner. The first sidewall 1011 presses against the sealing gasket 1025 in the second cavity 1023 to achieve sealing between the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020. Furthermore, the shielding structures in the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 respectively provide shielding for the components therein. The elastic arm 1014 disposed between the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 may connect the shielding structures in the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 to make them contact each other.

When the first sidewall 1011 of the first housing 1010 is plugged into the second cavity 1023, the handle 1030 is to be pivoted to the final locked position (as shown in Fig. 1-6). The protrusions 1016 on the elastic arm 1014 are inserted into the slide slots 1025 on the second sidewall 1021. The handle portion 1032 rests on the second sidewall 1021, and the handle 1030 is hold at the final locked position via a locking structure 1019 (e.g., a locking block). According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at the final locked position, the two connection arms 1031 of the handle 1030 are at least partially pivotable to the inside of the second cavity 1023 of the second housing 1020 to be surrounded by the second sidewall 1021 for protection.

According to the above-mentioned embodiment of the present invention, separation operation of the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 is performed in two steps. In the first-step separation operation, when the handle 1030 is being pivoted relative to the first housing 1010 from the final locked position towards an open direction, the connection arms 1031 manipulate the assisting structure to gradually separate the first housing 1010 from the second housing 1020. As shown in Fig. 1-9, during the opening procedure, the protrusions 1016 on the elastic arm 1014 move along the slide slots 1025 towards top ends 10251 of the slid slots 1025 until the protrusions 1016 are blocked by the top ends 10251. At this time, the handle 1030 stops pivoting and the first-step separation operation is completed.

To continue the separation operation of the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020, it is necessary for the operator to release the protrusions 1016 on the elastic arm 1014 from the slide slots 1025. For example, a force is applied to the elastic portion 10142 or protrusions 1016 of the elastic arm 1014 to enable the elastic portion 10142 to approach the first sidewall 1011 of the first housing 1011, enabling the protrusions 1016 to be released from the slide slots 1025. At this time, the handle 1030 may continue to pivot relative to the first housing 1010 towards the open direction until the first housing 1011 is completely separated from the second housing 1020.

The present invention further relates to a connector assembly comprising a housing assembly for holding terminal assembly and a connection terminal assembly for achieving electrical connection. In an example of the present invention, the connection terminal assembly comprises two male terminals 1041 and two female terminals 1042. Each male terminal 1041 is connected with a female terminal 1042 in a pluggable and extractable manner. In an example shown in Fig. 1-3, the male terminals 1041 are disposed in the first cavity 1013.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connector assembly is a switch device, for example, a manual service disconnect (MSD). In an example shown in Fig. 1-3, a fuse protector 1015 is disposed in the first cavity 1013. The fuse protector 1015 is disposed on a connection circuit of the two male terminals 1041. The female terminals 1042 are disposed in the second cavity 1023. When the first sidewall 1011 is plugged into the second cavity 1023, the male terminals 1041 are connected with the female terminals 1042 in a pluggable and extractable manner.

When the connector assembly of the present utility mode is used, the first sidewall 1011 of the first housing 1010 is inserted into the second cavity 1023 of the second housing 1020 so that the male terminals 1041 are plugged with the female terminals 1042 to achieve electrical connection. The elastic arm 1014 performs shielding connection between the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020. In an example of the present invention, the elastic arm 1014 generates an elastic deformation force with being pressed. The elastic deformation force is used to increase a frictional force between the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020 to prevent loosening. The protrusions 1016 are inserted into the slide slots 1025 to connect the first housing 1010 with the second housing 1020 and prevent separation of the first housing 1010 and the second housing 1020.

If the electrical connection needs to be disconnected, the handle 1030 is pivoted to release from the locking structure 1019, and the first housing 1010 is preliminarily separated from the second housing 1020 by being directly lifted and pulled or via the assisting structure 1018. When the protrusions 1016 move along the slide slots 1025 to a blocked position at the top ends 10251 of the slide slots, the protrusions 1016 are pressed to retreat them out of the slide slots 1025. With the handle 1030 being further pivoted, the first sidewall 1011 is unplugged from the second cavity 1023 by being directly lifted and pulled or via the assisting structure 1018 so that the male terminals 1041 are separated from the female terminals 1042 and thereby the circuit connection is disconnected. In an example of the above-mentioned manual service disconnect, when the male terminals 1041 are separated from the female terminals 1042, the fuse protector 1015 disposed in the first cavity 1013 is disconnected from the circuit.

It is labor-saving in plugging the first housing 1010 into the second cavity 1023 or unplugging the first housing 1010 from the second cavity 1023 with using the assisting structure in the present invention. However, the assisting structure is not a requisite structure. The structure of the assisting structure may be implemented through the prior art, for example, a cam structure. If the assisting structure is not provided, the operator plugs the first housing 1010 into the second cavity 1023 by directly pressing the first housing 1010 or unplugs the first housing 1010 from the second cavity 1023 by lifting the handle 1030.

Embodiments of the present invention are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not construed as limiting the scope of claims. Other substantively equivalent substitutions envisaged by those skilled in the art all fall within the scope of the present invention.

Part II. Fuse Unit

The present invention is further described with reference to embodiments and figures. Embodiment 1 of Fuse Unit

As shown in Fig. 2-1A and IB, a novel fuse unit 2040 comprises a main body 2041, two conductive adapters 2042 and two insertion terminals 2043. A fuse (not shown in the figures) is disposed in the main body 2041 for purpose of over-current protection. The main body 2041 is further provided with an electrical contact 20410 in communication with the internal fuse. The conductor adapters 2042 are used for electrical connection of the fuse and the insertion terminals 2043 as well as for mechanical connection of the insertion terminals 2043 and the main body 2041 and used to determine the position of the insertion terminals 2043 relative to the main body 2041. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each conductive adapter 2042 comprises a mounting segment 20421 and an adapting segment 20422. Preferably, the mounting segment 20421 and the adapting segment 20422 are an integrally formed structure. For example, each conductive adapter 2042 may be formed by stamping and bending. In an example as shown in the figure, the mounting segment 20421 and the adapting segment 20422 may form an L-shaped structure. The conductive adapter 2042 is made of electrically conductive material such as a metallic material. The mounting segment 20421 of the conductor adapter 2042 is connected to a sidewall 20411 of the main body 2041 and electrically connected to the fuse in the main body 2041 via a conductive screw 2044. For example, the conductive screw 2044 runs through the mounting segment 20421 of the conductive adapter 2042, the conductive screw 2044 is threadedly screwed into the main body 2041 to contact with and be electrically connected to the fuse.

The adapting segment 20422 of the conductive adapter 2042 may be used to fixedly mount the insertion terminal 2043. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, two insertion terminals 2043 are respectively mounted on two adapting segments 20422 and extend in a direction opposite to the mounting segment 20421 to protrude out of the adapting segment 20422. After the conductive adapter 2042 is mounted on the main body 2041, the adapting segment 20422 is disposed parallel to a front surface 20412 of the main body 2041.

The insertion terminal 2043 is configured to connect with the mating terminals and disposed in a circuit to be controlled and protected. One of the insertion terminal 2043 and the mating terminal is a plug terminal, and the other is a socket terminal, and their specific forms may be selected and determined according to actual situations. Through the two conductive adapters 2042, the two insertion terminals 2043 are respectively electrically connected to one end of the fuse, and the three become part of the conductive circuit to be controlled and protected.

The conductive adapter 2042 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to Fig. 2-2A and Fig. 2-2B below.

An insulator 2045 mechanically connects two independent conductive adapters 2042. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the insulator 2045 comprises a flat panel-shaped insulating bush 20451. The insulating bush 20451 encases part or all of the adapting segments 20422 of the two conductive adapters 2042, and mechanically connects the two conductive adapters 2042. The insulator 2045 may connect the two adapters 2042 in various feasible manners. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the insulator 2045 and the two conductive adapters 2042 are connected with each other in an insert injection molding manner.

The two conductive adapters 2042 are mechanically connected with each other via the insulator 2045 and formed as one piece. In the present invention, two independent L-shaped conductive adapters 2042 are connected as a conductive adapting assembly 2050 via the insulator 2045. In the example as shown in Fig. 2-4A and Fig. 2-4B, the conductive adapting assembly 2050 is U-shaped.

The conductive adapting assembly 2050 further comprises two insertion terminals 2043 which are respectively electrically connected with the two independent L-shaped conductive adapters 2042. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an insulating sleeve 20452 is provided around the insertion terminal 2043 to protect the insertion terminal 2043 and prevent electrical shock danger due to inadvertent contact with the insertion terminal 2043. A gap is provided between the insertion terminal 2043 and the insulating sleeve 20452 so that the insertion terminal 2043 is connected with the mating terminal in an insertable and extractable manner. Preferably, the insulating sleeve 20452 and the insulating bush 20451 are arranged in an integrally- formed manner.

Embodiment 2 of Fuse Unit

The present invention further relates to a novel connector. As shown in Fig. 2-3 A and Fig. 2-3B, the novel connector comprises a first housing 2010 and the novel fuse unit 2040 in Embodiment 1 of Fuse Unit. The first housing 2010 is provided with a first cavity 2011. The novel fuse unit 2040 is disposed in the first cavity 2011. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the novel fuse unit 2040 disposed in the novel connector may provide overload protection for the conductive circuit. For example, the novel connector of the present invention is a manual service disconnect (MSD).

The novel fuse unit 2040 comprises two insertion terminals 2043 for respectively connecting two mating terminals 2022 on the mating connectors (see Fig. 2-4A and Fig. 2-4B). In an example shown in Fig. 2-3A and Fig. 2-3B, the novel connector is a plug member in a connector assembly.

Embodiment 3 of Fuse Unit

The present invention further relates to a connector assembly. As shown in Fig. 2-4A and Fig. 2-4B, the connector assembly comprises a first connector and a second connector mating therewith. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first connector may be provided as the novel connector as described in Embodiment 2 of Fuse Unit.

The second connector comprises a second housing 2020 provided with a second cavity 2021. Two mating terminals 2022 are disposed in the second cavity 2021 and disposed in a conductive circuit to respectively connect with the two insertion terminals 2043 in the first connector in an insertable and extractable manner.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second housing 2020 of the second connector is connected with the first housing 2010 of the first connector (e.g., the connector as described in Embodiment 2 of Fuse Unit) in an insertable and extractable manner. When the first housing 2010 is insert-connected with the second housing 2020, the two insertion terminals 2043 of the novel connector are respectively electrically connected with the two mating terminals 2022 of the second connector to communicate with the conductive circuit. The novel connector formed according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided with the novel fuse unit 2040 to provide overload protection for the conductive circuit. For example, the novel connector is a manual service disconnect (MSD).

One of the first connector and the mating second connector is a plug member of the connector assembly and the other is a socket member. For example, the first connector is a plug member, and the mating second connector is a socket member.

Embodiments of the present invention are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not construed as limiting the scope of claims. Other substantively equivalent substitutions envisaged by those skilled in the art all fall within the scope of the present invention.

Part III. Electrical Connector

The present invention is further described with reference to embodiments and figures. As shown in Fig. 3-1 through Fig. 3-5, the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly comprises a mated electrical connector 3010 and a mating connector 3020. The electrical connector 3010 comprises a housing 3015. The housing 3015 is provided with a cavity 3011. The mating connector 3020 and the electrical connector 3010 are inserted in the cavity 3011 in a pluggable and extractable manner. In the cavity 3011 is provided one or more low- voltage circuit control devices 3012 and two high- voltage terminals 3018. The high-voltage terminals 3018 may employ various structures in the prior art, depending on practical application occasions. One end of the high-voltage terminals 3018 is configured to be connected with a high-voltage transmission line, and the other end thereof is configured to be plug-connected with the mating high-voltage terminals in the mating connector 3020 mating therewith, to jointly control ON and OFF of the high- voltage circuit.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the mating connector 3020 comprises a mating housing 3025. The mating housing 3025 is provided with a mating cavity 3026. In the mating cavity 3026 is provided with a fuse protector 3021 (e.g., a fuse). Both ends of the fuse protector 3021 are respectively connected with a mating high- voltage terminal 3022. The two mating high-voltage terminals 3022 are electrically connected via the fuse protector 3021. The mating high- voltage terminals 3022 are plug-connected with the high- voltage terminals 3018. For example, the mating connector 3020 having the fuse protector 3021 may be formed with a manual service disconnect (MSD).

The low- voltage circuit control device 3012 of the present invention is used to control ON and OFF of the low- voltage circuit. In the example as shown in Fig. 3-4, the low- voltage circuit control device 3012 has a switch housing 30121. A lower end (namely, a connection end) of the switch housing 30121 is provided with two output terminals 30123. The two output terminals 30123 are inserted from the lower end of the switch housing 30121 into the switch housing 30121 and extend out of an upper end (namely, a switch end) of the switch housing 30121 to form two switch contact points 30124. The upper end of the switch housing 30121 is provided with an elastic sheet 30122. One end of the elastic sheet 30122 is connected to the switch housing 30121 and electrically connected with one of the switch contact points 30124; the other end of the elastic sheet 30122 is elastically provided and may, being pressed, be electrically connected with the other switch contact point 30124 so that the two output terminals 30123 achieve electrical connection at the switch end of the switch housing 30121. The manner of the electrical connection of the elastic sheet 30122 and the switch contact point 30124 may be achieved either by direct contact or by other structures.

At the connection end of the switch housing 30121, each output terminal 30123 is electrically connected with a first metal contact pin 3013. The first metal contact pin 3013 and the output terminal 30123 are separately formed and then fixedly connected together to be formed as one piece. The first metal contact pin 3013 comprises a shorter connection segment 30131 and a longer mating segment 30132. The connection segment 30131 and the mating segment 30132 are connected to each other into an L shape. The connection segment 30131 is fixedly connected with the output terminal 30123, e.g., by welding. The mating segment 30132 extends outward from the output terminal 30123. In the example as shown in the figure, the mating segment 30132 extends in the same direction as the output terminal 30123.

The low-voltage circuit control device 3012 may be mounted in the electrical connector 3010 of the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector via various manners. In the example as shown in Fig. 3-1, the switch housing 30121 of the low- voltage circuit control device 3012 may be disposed and mounted in the suitable cavity 3011 of the electrical connector 3010. The mating segment 30132 runs through the bottom plate 3014 of the housing 3015 and protrudes out of the bottom external surface 30141 of the housing. As shown in Fig. 3-3, the bottom external surface 30141 of the housing 3015 is provided with a guard plate 3016. The guard plate 3016 extends from the bottom external surface 30141 of the housing; the length that the guard plate 3016 extends from the bottom external surface 30141 of the housing is greater than the length that the first metal contact pin 3013 protrudes out of the bottom external surface 30141 of the housing to protect the first metal contact pin 3013. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the guard plate 3016 surrounds the whole periphery of the first metal contact pin 3013. The guard plate 3016 surrounding the first metal contact pin 3013 may be set in various shape or structures and forms a first pluggable housing 3016 for plug-connection with other mating connecting members. As shown in Fig. 3-5, the low- voltage circuit control device 3012 mounted on the mated electrical connector 3010 may be connected with one mating connecting member 3017. In an example as shown in Fig. 3-5, the mating connecting member 3017 comprises a second pluggable housing 30171 and a second metal contact pin (not shown in the figure). The second metal contact pin is disposed on the second pluggable housing 30171 and connected with a cable 30172. The second pluggable housing 30171 is plug-connected with the first pluggable housing 3016 in a pluggable and extractable manner. When the second pluggable housing 30171 is plug-connected with the first pluggable housing 3016, the first metal contact pin 3013 is electrically connected with the second metal contact pin and the cable 30172. The first metal contact pin 3013 is electrically connected with the second metal contact pin in various forms, either by direct contact or by adapting via other structures. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first metal contact pin 3013 is plug-connected with the second metal contact pin in a pluggable and extractable manner. When the second pluggable housing 30171 is plug-connected with the first pluggable housing 3016, the first metal contact pin 3013 is plug-connected with the second metal contact pin. The pluggable and extractable plug-connection of the first metal contact pin 3013 and the second metal contact pin may be achieved by using various structures in the prior art, for example, one of the first metal contact pin 3013 and second metal contact pin takes a rod form, and the other thereof takes a sleeve form. In the present embodiment, the first metal contact pin 3013 is in the form of a rod and the second metal contact pin is in the form of a sleeve. When the second pluggable housing 30171 is plug-connected with the first pluggable housing 3016, the first metal contact pin 3013 is inserted in the second metal contact pin in a pluggable and extractable manner, and the first metal contact pin 3013 and the second metal contact pin are plug-connected and contact with each other to achieve electrical connection.

Operation situations of the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly, the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector and the low-voltage circuit control device according to the present invention are described with reference to Fig. 3-6 and Fig. 3-7.

As shown in Fig. 3-6, the high- voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly according to the present invention is at a final pluggable position. At this final pluggable position, the mated electrical connector 3010 and the mating connector 3020 are completely plugged with each other, i.e., the high-voltage terminals 3018 in the electrical connector 3010 are electrically connected with the mating high-voltage terminals 3022 in the mating connector 3020 to turn on the high- voltage circuit. Furthermore, the elastic sheet 30122 in the low-voltage circuit control device 3012 is pressed by the mating connector 3020 and electrically connected with the two switch contact points 30124, thereby turn on the low- voltage circuit.

As shown in Fig. 3-7, the high- voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly according to the present invention is at a partially disconnected position. At this partially disconnected position, the mated electrical connector 3010 and the mating connector 3020 partially separate from each other so that the mating connector 3020 releases pressure to the elastic sheet 30122 to disconnect the two switch contact points 30124 to cut off the low-voltage circuit. The high-voltage terminals 18 in the electrical connector 3010 still remain electrically connect with the mating high-voltage terminals 3022, and the high-voltage circuit is still on. The high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly may be provided with a mechanical locking mechanism which maintains the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly at the partially disconnected position to prevent easy complete separation of the electrical connector 3010 and the mating connector 3020. The high-voltage interlocking electrical connector assembly may continue to separate subsequently until the electrical connector 3010 and the mating connector 3020 separate completely to the state as shown in Fig. 3-1.

In the high-voltage interlocking electrical connector in the present invention, outward connection of the low-voltage circuit control device is implemented via the first metal contact pin, thereby avoiding welding operation in the wire connection and achieving quick plug-connection. The housing bottom of the first connector is provided with the guard plate which may protect the metal contact pin from damage, or may be provided with a corresponding structure to facilitate connection of the adapter. The present invention is adapted for many occasions and used conveniently.

Embodiments of the present invention are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not construed as limiting the scope of claims. Other substantively equivalent substitutions envisaged by those skilled in the art all fall within the scope of the present invention.

Part IV. Connector Housing Having Elastic Arm

As shown in Fig. 4-2 through Fig. 4-8, a connector comprises a connector housing assembly and a connection terminal assembly. The connection terminal assembly is used for electrical connection. The connector housing assembly is used to secure the connection terminal assembly.

The connector housing assembly comprises a first housing 4010 and a second housing 4020. The first housing 4010 comprises a first sidewall 4011 and a top panel 4012. The first sidewall 4011 and the top panel 4012 define a first cavity 4013. The second housing

4020 comprises a second sidewall 4021 and a bottom panel 4022. The second sidewall

4021 and the bottom panel 4022 e define a second cavity 4023. The second cavity 4023 of the second housing 4020 is configured to receive the first housing 4010. A sealing gasket 4024 is disposed in the second cavity 4023 for sealing between the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020.

In an example as shown in the figures, an elastic arm 4014 is disposed on an outer surface of the first sidewall 4011 of the first housing 4010. The elastic arm 4014 comprises a connection portion 40141 and an elastic portion 40142. One end of the connection portion 40141 is connected to the outer surface of the first sidewall 4011, and the other end is connected to the elastic portion 40142. The elastic portion 40142 is connected at one end with the connection 40141, and extends from the connection portion 40141 towards the top panel 4012. After the first housing 4010 is connected with the second housing 4020, the elastic portion 40142 of the elastic arm 4014, due to the pressure of the second sidewall 4021 of the second housing 4020, get close to the first sidewall 4011 and generates an elastic deformation.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the other end of the elastic portion 40142 is connected with the first sidewall 4011 via an elastic sheet 4015. The thickness of the elastic sheet 4015 is smaller than the thickness of one of the connection portion 40141 and the elastic portion 40142 or both of the connection portion 40141 and the elastic portion 40142. Preferably, the thickness of the elastic sheet 4015 is smaller than the thickness of the connection portion 40141 and the elastic portion 40142. The elastic sheet 4015 is capable of preventing the elastic arm 4014 (or elastic portion 40142) from being accidentally moved towards a direction away from the first sidewall 4011, thereby causing deformation or even rupture of the elastic arm 4014.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the housing assembly further comprises a structure to prevent the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020 from being separated in one step. The structure enables the first housing and the second housing 4020 to be separated in at least two steps. In an example as shown in the figures, the second sidewall 4021 of the second housing 4020 is provided with slide slots 4025. The slide slots 4025 are through slots running through the wall thickness of the second sidewall 4021. Protrusions 4016 are provided on an outer surface 40143 of the elastic portion 40142 of the elastic arm 4014. The protrusions 4016 protrude out of the outer surface 40143 of the elastic portion 40142. As shown in Fig. 4-7, when the first housing 4010 is inserted into the second housing 4020, the protrusions 4016 are disposed in the slide slots 4025 on the sidewall 4021, and spaced apart a distance D from top ends 40251 of the slide slots 4025.

When the present invention is used, the first sidewall 4011 of the first housing 4010 is inserted in the second cavity 4023 of the second housing 4020 in an insertable and extractable manner. The first sidewall 4011 is pressed against the sealing gasket 4024 in the second cavity 4023 to achieve mutual sealing between the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020. The elastic arm 4014 disposed between the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020 is capable of connecting the first housing 4010 with the second housing 4020. The protrusion 4016 on the elastic arm 14 are inserted in the slide slots 4025 on the second sidewall 4021.

According to the above embodiment of the present invention, separation operation of the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020 is performed in two phases. During the first-phase separation operation, the first housing 4010 is extracted outward from the inside of the second cavity 4023, and the protrusions 4016 on the elastic arm 4014 move along the slide slots 4025 towards its top ends 40251 until the protrusions 4016 are blocked by the top ends 40251. At this time, the first-phase separation operation is completed. To continue the separation operation of the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020, the operator needs to release the protrusions 4016 on the elastic arm 4014 from the slide slots 4025. For example, a force is applied to the elastic portion 40142 or protrusions 4016 of the elastic arm 4014 to enable the elastic portion 40142 to get close to the first sidewall 4011 of the first housing 4010, thus enabling the protrusion 4016 to be released from the slide slots 4025. At this time, the first housing 4010 is continued to be extracted outward from the inside of the second housing cavity 4023 until the first housing 4011 is completely extracted out of the second cavity 4023.

The present invention further comprises a connection terminal assembly. In an example of the present invention, the connection terminal assembly comprises two male terminals 4041 and two female terminals 4042. Each male terminal 4041 is connected with one female terminal 4042 in an insertable and extractable manner. In an example shown in Fig. 4-3, the male terminal 4041 is disposed in the first cavity 4013.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connector assembly is a switch device, for example, manual service disconnect (MSD). In an example shown in Fig. 4-3, a fuse unit 4015 is disposed in the first cavity 4013. The fuse unit 4015 is disposed in a connection circuit of the two male terminals 4041 therein. The female terminals are disposed in the second cavity 4023. When the first sidewall 4011 is inserted into the second cavity 4013, the male terminals 4041 are connected with the female terminals 4042 in an insertable and extractable manner.

When the connector of the present utility mode is in use, the first sidewall 4011 of the first housing 4010 is inserted into the second cavity 4023 of the second housing 4020 so that the male terminals 4041 are connected with the female terminals 4042 to achieve electrical connection. In an example of the present invention, the elastic arm 4014 has an elastic deformation force when being pressed. The elastic deformation force is used to increase a frictional force between the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020 and prevent them from being loosed.. The protrusion 4016 is inserted into the slide slots 4025 to connect the first housing 4010 with the second housing 4020 and prevent separation of the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020. If the electrical connection needs to be disconnected, the first sidewall 4011 is extracted out of the second cavity 4023 so that the male terminals 4041 are separated from the female terminals 4042 and thereby disconnecting the circuit connection. In an example of the above-mentioned manual service disconnect, when the male terminals 4041 are separated from the female terminals 4042, the fuse unit 4015 disposed in the first cavity 4013 is disconnected from the circuit.

When the present invention is in use, the first sidewall 4011 of the first housing 4010 is inserted into the second cavity 4023, the elastic arm 4014, has an elastic deformation force when being pressed. The elastic deformation force is used to increase a frictional force between the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020 and prevent them from being loosed. The protrusions 4016 are inserted in the slide slots 4025 to connect the first housing 4010 with the second housing 4020 and prevent separation of the first housing 4010 and the second housing 4020. The male terminals 4041 are connected with the female terminals 4042 to achieve electrical connection. If the electrical connection needs to be disconnected, the protrusions 4016 is pressed so that they exit the slide slots 4025, and the first sidewall 4011 is extracted out of the second cavity 4023 such that the male terminals 4041 are separated from the female terminals 4042.

Embodiments of the present invention are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not construed as limiting the scope of claims. Other substantively equivalent substitutions envisaged by those skilled in the art all fall within the scope of the present invention.