Abstract: An electrical connector assembly having one-piece intermediate member (24, 24') and method of forming thereof are disclosed. In one embodiment, the one-piece intermediate member (24, 24') includes insulation-piercing serrations that provide for electrical conductivity between two electrical conductors. In another embodiment, the one-piece intermediate member (24, 24') provides for electrical conductivity between an insulated conductor and an uninsulated conductor. Intermediate member (24) includes movable sections (41) located inwardly from cable-engaging sections (40), with piercing serrations (46) extendable outward through slots (48) of the cable-engaging sections so as to penetrate the cables' insulation. In another embodiment, the electrical conductivity between the two electrical conductors is provided by a C-shaped receptacle element of the connector assembly. In all embodiments, the piercing serrations rigidly fix the electrical connection of the electrical conductors.

Abstract: An electrical connector includes a C-shaped member (10) for use with a wedge. The C-shaped member includes a bight section (16) and two arcuate ears (18) extending from opposite sides of the bight section. The C-shaped member has an outer surface (24) with laterally extending ribs (22) and grooves (26) in an alternating sequence. The C-shaped member has an inner surface (34) that is initially formed with protrusions (36) each being opposed to one of the grooves. The protrusions compensate for bowing of the inner surface during forming of the arcuate ears, thereby resulting in the inner surface having a planar profile after forming.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an electrical connector having a C-shaped member with two ears with arcuate inner surfaces. At least one of the arcuate inner surfaces has teeth extending inwardly with at least one of the teeth having a plastic cap disposed on it. A wedge is designed to be secured within the C-shaped member and terminated two cables therein. The wedge has two sides which cooperate with the arcuate inner surfaces to terminate the cables. At least one of the sides has a blade extending outwardly therefrom.

Abstract: An electrical connector is disclosed for enhancing the thermal emissivity of an electrical connection. An electrical connector, such as a typical C-member and wedge style connector, is provided that is constructed of electrically conductive material and has a surface treatment on the exterior surfaces of the connector that increases emissivity of the connector. Contact surfaces are provided on the connector that are electrically conductive for ensuring electrical continuity within the connector. The surface treatment operates to increase the thermal transfer efficiency within the connector and thereby lower the operating temperature of the connector.