Flat flexible cable terminal and electrical interconnection system

Abstract

A hermaphroditic electrical contact is disclosed for use with multiple conductor flat flexible cables terminated by elongated mating plug and receptacle connectors. A plurality of contacts are mounted in each of the connectors. Each contact includes a resilient cantilever contact arm integral with and extending along a contact body. The arm is formed of light spring stock and is shaped to permit over center motion. The free end of the arm is profiled to engage tabs on the body which restrain movement of the arm. Fixed tabs and a resilient latch extend from the contact body to allow easy mounting in the plug and receptacle connectors. The spring latch can be depressed to permit the contacts to be easily removed from the connector assembly without damage. The contacts also include staggered pairs of sharpened teeth which are capable of penetrating cable insulation and being crimped or bent in a curled relationship over the margins of a flat configuration conductor to inwardly deform and resiliently pinch the conductor side margins at a plurality of locations. The edges of the teeth are sufficiently sharp to insure penetration through the insulation jacket to establish the desired electrical connection with the inwardly crimped portion of the conductor.