Amphenol Corporation
Electrical connector having contact elements with superelastic material and associated methods

Abstract:

Electrical connectors including superelastic components. The high elastic limit of superelastic materials compared to conventional connector materials may allow for designs which provide reliable connections and high frequency operation. Superelastic components also may enable connector designs with higher densities of connections. A connector can include one or more superelastic elongated members forming the mating contacts of the connector. The superelastic elongated members may deform within one or more conductive receptacles to generate a suitable contact force. The conductive receptacles may include a plurality of protrusions arranged to deflect the superelastic elongated members during mating. A superelastic component may also be provided in a receiving portion of a connector, and may form a portion of a conductive receptacle.