Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrical connector comprising first and second insulating supports (10, 20) respectively provided with first and second terminals (11, 22). The first terminals (11) are moving terminals and the connector includes actuator means (30) for causing said moving terminals to move between a first position (I) in which the moving terminals (11) are held in intimate engagement with the second terminals (22) which are fixed, and a second position (II) in which the moving terminals (11) are held radially away from and fully disengaged from the fixed terminals, with said actuator means (30) responding to the application of axial force to move said moving terminals. This makes it possible to disassemble and to assemble the two supports without having to overcome any friction between the fixed and moving terminals. The invention is applicable to the electrical industry, and in particular to providing equipment for use in manned spacecraft.

Abstract: The invention provides a releasable connector comprising a male part presenting four mutually inclined faces forming a tetrahedral wedge, and a female part presenting three walls for mating with the faces of the male part when the male part is inserted therein. A locking device is mounted on one of the two parts and applies a locking force, urging the wedge into intimate contact with the female part to lock the male part in position. The locking means is movable to a release position in which it frees the male part for insertion and withdrawal in a direction transverse to the face. The mutual inclinations of the three faces are sufficient to avoid jamming of the connector.