Abstract: An axially mating quick connect-disconnect electrical connector comprising a plug member and a jack member is provided. A split spring ring having a circumferential notch therein is carried by the plug member in a peripheral groove as the connective member and when the two connectors are joined the ring is compressed reducing the diameter of the ring and the periphery of the ring is compressed toward the notch resulting in a dual compression of the ring which is mated in an inner, circumferential groove in the jack and provides the necessary connection forces between the plug and jack members while providing for connection or disconnection of the two connectors using less force than typically needed for such connectors.

Abstract: A connector system for interconnecting single or multiple pairs of flex circuits. A single pair of clamping bodies interconnects the respective ones of multiple pairs of electrical conductors in the form of conductor traces carried on respective pairs of flexible substrates, by pressing the flex circuits together between slender fluid-filled flexible bladders held in channels defined in the confronting sides of the clamping bodies. Alignment pins keep the flex circuits and clamping bodies aligned properly with each other, and alignment portions of the flex circuits correspond in thickness to that of the electrically interconnecting portions, to keep the flex circuits and clamping bodies parallel with each other. The clamping bodies are urged toward one another by clamping screws.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting two electrical conductors (102,104) by means of a bladder (110) having a substantially constant volume of confined fluid interacting between a backing member (106) and one of the conductors (104). The bladder forms a compliant membrane surface (108) that transmits fluid pressure nearly hydrostatically from one conductor (104), to the other (102) such that the intimate contact of the surfaces (116) between the conductors provides an improved electrical connection, especially for small scale multi-conductors. A two-step, cam actuated connector (250,300) is disclosed which provides a low pressure wiping action between the conductors before the conductors are locked together, preferably by pressurization of the bladder (218,308).

Abstract: First and second connector members extend in one direction, for example, horizontally, and include pairs of left and right hand non-conducting tenons projecting transversely from each member in another direction, e.g., vertically. Each pair of tenons forms a channel for receiving a tenon of the other member when the connection is made. Each left hand tenon carries a conductor strip which includes a resilient contact surface within the channel formed by the tenon pair, and each right hand tenon carries a right hand conductor strip including a resilient contact surface outside the channel formed by the tenon pair. Each left hand resilient contact surface is adapted to mate with a right hand resilient contact surface when the members are engaged, thereby effectuating two electrical connections between the engaged pair of tenons. Each conductor strip extends, e.g.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting two electrical conductors (102,104) by means of a fluid bladder (110) interacting between a backing member (106) and one of the conductors (104). The bladder forms a compliant membrane surface (108) that transmits fluid pressure nearly hydrostatically from one conductor (104), to the other (102) such that the intimate contact of the surfaces (116) between the conductors provides an improved electrical connection, especially for small scale multi-conductors.

Abstract: A pierce-type connector for ribbon cable has a base and a mating cover joined together to clamp a multi-conductor flat flexible cable. The cover and the base have appropriately aligned cavities for accomodating contact elements. The contact elements are inserted through the top of the cover after the cable is clamped. The elements have insulation piercing slots so that each element may slice through the conductor insulation to electrically engage a conductor wire and are shaped so as to hold the base and cover in engagement after contact is achieved with the conductor wires. This construction facilitates manufacture and circuit continuity checks.

Abstract: An electrical connector for ribbon cable terminals has first and second longitudinally sets of conductor pins embedded in a block of insulating material. Each pin has a first end portion and a second end portion, the axes of which are in spaced parallel relationship, and a bent intermediate portion. On each side of the block a row of first end portions and a parallel spaced row of second end portions are defined. The intermediate portions on the pins of one set respectively cross the intermediate portions of the other set in the block without making contact. The connector is adapted to interconnect the terminals for diagnostic purposes, including Alpha continuity checks, as well as permitting connection of series or cascades of such terminals without the need for modifying cable terminations.