Connector for flexible circuit boards

Abstract

Abstract A connector for a printed circuit board having a housing (20) defining a hollow. There is a plurality of slits (22) in the back wall (25) and a terminal (30) is inserted in each one. The terminal (30) includes a pressure piece (32) which is capable of flexing under the influence of the introduction of a retainer (40) so that it is spaced apart from the circuit board (10). The gap therebetween is greater than the thickness of the board (10). After the retainer (40) and circuit board (10) have been fully inserted, the pressing piece (32) returns to its rest position, in which the gap is equal to or less than the thickness of the circuit board (10). This provides a good electrical contact between the pressing piece (32) and the board (10). The retainer, (40) which may be integral with the board (10), has a cavity (41b) which receives a portion of the circuit board (10). Attached thereto is a connecting member which enters the hollow and presses the terminal (30) into a flexed position separated from the board (10). In this way, the terminal (30) is out of contact with the circuit board (10) until the board (10) has been fully inserted. This not only prevents damage to the board (10) by abrasion, but also allows entry of a very flexible board (10) without any danger of crumpling, even if the assembly is carried out with one hand.

Inventors

• 👤 Hideto Nakamura

Bibliographic Details