J.s.t. Corporation

Frank Holub

David Demaratos

A method for improving clearance and creepage in a male high voltage connector assembly using a male terminal position assurance (TPA) device. The male high voltage connector assembly is highly suitable for high voltage electrical terminals, which are larger terminals. The method includes a step of allowing a clearance and creepage or electrical path to extend from at least a high voltage electrical terminal to a male outer housing of the high voltage connector assembly. When the TPA device is inserted and locked within a male inner housing of the high voltage connector assembly, the clearance and creepage or electrical path extends from the high voltage electrical terminal along at least a surface of the TPA device and to the male outer housing of the high voltage connector assembly. The male TPA device includes wing-like shape members with intermediate members that extend substantially and respectively downward from the wing-like shape members.

Method for improving clearance and creepage in a high voltage connector assembly using a male terminal position assurance (TPA) device

A male terminal position assurance (TPA) device for a male connector assembly, preferably for a high voltage connector assembly. The male TPA has a substantially wing-like shaped upper member that respectively locks terminals inside a male inner housing, and further has a flexible arm member, in a lower member thereof, that locks the male TPA device in the male inner housing. The male TPA device does not lock inside the male inner housing if it detects that the corresponding terminal has not been fully inserted or installed into the male inner housing. The male inner housing includes a primarily lock for locking the terminal, while the male TPA device, when in full-lock position, provides for a secondary lock for locking the terminal inside the inner housing. When in the full-lock position inside the male inner housing, the male TPA device assures that the necessary retention forces are provided to ensure that the terminal remains fully locked within the male connector assembly.

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West Bloomfield, MI, United States of America

Frank Holub