Abstract: An electrical connector is provided with a transversely aligned terminal position assurance (TPA) component that is slidably insertable into a transverse keyway in the connector housing. The TPA component includes a plurality of flexing primary latches and a corresponding plurality of static secondary locks. The flexing primary latches are disposed to align with the terminal receiving cavities of the housing when the TPA component is in a pre-load position. The terminals can be inserted into the housing with the TPA component in this pre-load position such that the flexing primary latches at least temporarily retain the terminals in the housing. Upon complete insertion of all terminals the TPA component is indexed transversely into a final locked position such that the static secondary locks thereof positively engage each terminal to ensure complete insertion. A symmetrical front mating seal is configured to be held in the housing by suction to prevent separation during unmating.

Abstract: An electrical connector is provided with a transversely aligned terminal position assurance (TPA) component that is slidably insertable into a transverse keyway in the connector housing. The TPA component includes a plurality of flexing primary latches and a corresponding plurality of static secondary locks. The flexing primary latches are disposed to align with the terminal receiving cavities of the housing when the TPA component is in a pre-load position. The terminals can be inserted into the housing with the TPA component in this pre-load position such that the flexing primary latches at least temporarily retain the terminals in the housing. Upon complete insertion of all terminals the TPA component is indexed transversely into a final locked position such that the static secondary locks thereof positively engage each terminal to ensure complete insertion. A symmetrical front mating seal is configured to be held in the housing by suction to prevent separation during unmating.

Abstract: A socket assembly is provided for low wattage bulbs. The socket assembly includes a nonconductive housing with a pair of electrically conductive terminals therein. The housing includes an inwardly directed shoulder adjacent the forward mating end an inwardly disposed locking structure. The terminals include inwardly directed locking tangs, the alignment of which prevents unintentional deformation prior to insertion of the terminal into the housing. Each terminal also includes a pair of contact beams angularly aligned toward one another. Portions of the contact beams are concave from side to side to contribute to alignment of the conductive leads of the bulb. The terminals also include tuning fork assist structures extending from an intermediate portion of the terminal forwardly for contact with the extreme forward mating end of each contact beam.