Abstract: A system and method is provided for securing a spring body against a socket body, thereby reducing movement of the spring body during periods of vibration. Preferred embodiments of the present invention operate in accordance with a socket body that includes at least a proximal end, a spring body that includes at least a distal end, and a sleeve. In one embodiment of the present invention, the distal end of the spring body is configured to be placed over the proximal end of the socket body, and the sleeve is configured to be placed over the distal end of the spring body. The sleeve preferably includes an inner circumference that is sized to creating a frictional engagement between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the spring body, and between an inner surface of the spring body and an outer surface of the socket body.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for assembling and/or customizing a connector. Preferred embodiments of the present invention operate in accordance with a connector that includes a plurality of removable contacts, and a connector body that can be customized to mate with a corresponding, and similarly configured connector. In one embodiment of the present invention, a contact is connected to a wire and inserted into an aperture in a retainer. The retainer is then inserted into a connector body, thereby resulting in an increase in friction between the retainer and the contact, and a backshell is attached to the connector body. At least one key is placed in at least one keyway on the connector body, resulting in a user-programmable connector. The connector is then mated with a corresponding connector that is similarly configured. The connectors are then secured using either a latch or lanyard mechanism.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for assembling and/or customizing a connector. Preferred embodiments of the present invention operate in accordance with a connector that includes a plurality of removable contacts, and a connector body that can be customized to mate with a corresponding, and similarly configured connector. In one embodiment of the present invention, a contact is connected to a wire and inserted into an aperture in a retainer. The retainer is then inserted into a connector body, thereby resulting in an increase in friction between the retainer and the contact, and a backshell is attached to the connector body. At least one key is placed in at least one keyway on the connector body, resulting in a user-programmable connector. The connector is then mated with a corresponding connector that is similarly configured. The connectors are then secured using either a latch or lanyard mechanism.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for sensing information (e.g., voltage, current, data, etc.) that is being transmitted through a connector. Preferred embodiments of the present invention operate in accordance with a connector and at least one sensor. In one embodiment of the present invention, the connector comprises a plug, a receptacle, and a sensor assembly for housing at least one circuit board, at least one sensor, and at least one sensor housing, wherein the sensor is configured to sense (or sample) information that is being communicated over a conductor. The sensor may be a torroidal coil that includes a core (e.g., ferrite, etc.) and at least one wire (e.g., copper, etc.) wound around the core. Alternatively, the sensor may be a MEMS sensor, a Hall Effect sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor and/or a direct (or physical) connection between the at least one wire and either the at least one circuit board or an external circuit.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses are provided for placing interconnects or connector modules into stacked arrangements, wherein individual interconnects or connector modules can be readily accessed and repaired without disrupting the stacked arrangement. In one embodiment, the electrical connector system has a plurality of interconnects mounted together in a stacked arrangement. Each of the interconnects comprises a connector body and a backshell removably coupled to the connector body, wherein the backshell is configured to receive and retain a overbraid. Each backshell is designed to be uncoupled from the connector body while retaining the plurality of interconnects in the stacked arrangement, thereby making is possible to repair single a interconnect without disrupting the others.

Abstract: A backshell device and assembly are provided for achieved improved signal integrity, wherein the design of the backshell device is less complicated, more light weight, and easier to build and use than existing devices. In one embodiment, the backshell device can be coupled to adaptor which is coupled to a connector. The backshell device generally comprises a mounting section coupled to the adaptor, and an extension section extending from the mounting section. The extension section preferably comprises an increased-diameter section configured to accommodate a non-staggered or aligned arrangement of a plurality of solder sleeves of the wiring harness.

Abstract: A connector provides for attachment to a cable having a plurality of wires arranged in matched pairs. The connector comprises a housing and a connector insert located within the housing and having a plurality of contact cavities extending in an axial direction entirely therethrough. The connector insert further includes a substantially centrally located elongated opening extending in the axial direction from a proximal end thereof at least partially through the connector insert. The plurality of contact cavities are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the elongated opening. A conductive post is inserted into the elongated opening of the connector insert. The conductive post has elongated edges that provide shielding between respective pairs of the plurality of contact cavities. A follower is coupled to the conductive post. The follower has a plurality of passageways adapted to communicate respective ones of the matched pairs of wires to respective ones of the pairs of contact cavities.

Abstract: An electrical connector assembly for a fuel injector includes a receptacle and mating plug. The plug is formed with side channels within which socket contacts at the end of an electrical wire or conductor may be snap fit. The receptacle includes side loading wedges aligned with the side channels of the plug to place a lateral load or compressive force on the socket contacts. The plug is formed with strain relief wedges that place a vertical load or compressive force on the socket contacts or wire insulation and conductor held therein. The plug and receptacle are formed with a key and keyway for proper orientation. An external latch on the receptacle captures the fully inserted plug.