Patent ID: 6033247
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: H01R

Abstract:
A floating connector assembly comprising:a first connector having a wire harness end adapted to receive electrical wires, and a terminal mating end adapted to receive a second connector in axial mating connection, the first connector including a spring-receiving surface;a spring bracket assembly comprising a mounting bracket adapted to be secured to a surface such as a vehicle body panel in a fixed position, a plurality of axial compression springs, and a retention bracket for retaining the springs in a position to be received by the spring-receiving surface on the first connector when the wire harness end of the connector is inserted into the mounting bracket, the retention bracket adapted to receive the springs and further including lock arms adapted to mechanically lock the retention bracket to the first connector with the springs compressed therebetween, the lock arms having a length allowing axial movement of the spring-loaded first connector relative to the retention bracket, the mounting bracket further including an opening for receiving the wire harness end of the first connector and means for securing the wire harness end of the first connector when the wire harness end is inserted through the opening, such that the first connector is free to move axially relative to the mounting bracket under spring force from the springs tending to push the first connector axially away from the mounting bracket.