TE - White Papers

Automotive Connector Strategies and Solutions for Space Saving Page 5 TE AUTOMOTIVE /// White Paper | Automotive Connector Strategies and Solutions for Space Savings This design reduces the PCB footprint by approximately 50 percent while offering up to three amps of nominal current capacity. In addition, the NanoMQS interconnection system can accommodate wire-cross sections as small as 0.13 mm 2 , allowing manufacturers to reduce wire harness weight if needed. The sealed version of NanoMQS system also offers an exceptional level of vibration resistance of up to 400 g sinus.. 5 | AUTOMOTIVE-GRADE MINIATURIZED TERMINALS PROVIDE RELIABLE ONGOING PERFORMANCE At the core of the NanoMQS interconnection platform is a single-piece crimp terminal (Figure 2). The standard version of the receptacle contact is made from tin-plated copper. It is available in wire-cross sections of 0.13 mm 2 to 0.17 mm 2 and 0.22 mm 2 to 0.35 mm 2 . The receptacle contacts are designed for contact blades measuring 0.5 by 0.4 millimeters. • The version with tin-plated terminals is approved for ambient temperatures between -40° C and up to 130° C. • A version with silver-plated terminals can be used in conditions of up to 170° C and is therefore suitable for applications within the engine bay area. • A version with gold-plated terminals increases the number of mating cycles up to 100 times. It also significantly reduces chances of metal corrosion, increasing contact lifespan and usability for safety applications such as airbag systems. NanoMQS terminals and connectors have a nominal current carrying capacity of up to three amps. How- ever, it can also support short peaks of up to five times the nominal limit. When mated, the receptacle contact establishes two electrical points of contact to the corresponding blade via a robust L-shaped spring that exerts a high normal force. The NanoMQS receptacle contacts feature a closed-box design contact chamber which works with com- paratively large lead-in chamfers on the housing to ensure a smooth guided insertion. This prevents the blade colliding with the receptacle contact during mating ("stubbing"), which could deform and damage the contact lance due to incorrect insertion. On top of the terminal is a locking lance, which audibly and tangibly latches onto the plastic housing once the terminal is fully inserted. The locking lance provides the primary locking mechanism for the two-level contact retention system. The locking hole is visible via a cutout, enabling manufacturers to confirm that lances are correctly inserted (Figure 3 and Figure 3A). The maximum insertion force for the primary Figure 3: NanoMQS locking mechanism Figure 3A: Highlighting the NanoMQS locking mechanism

• Cover