Patent ID: 6817901
Filing Date: 2004-11-16
Classification: H01R

Abstract:
A connector, comprising:a housing formed with cavities for receiving terminal fittings and locks in the cavities, the locks each having an arm that is resiliently deformable in a deformation direction in response to forces exerted by the terminal fitting being inserted into the respective cavity, the locks each having a locking section projecting from the respective arm in a direction substantially opposite the deformation direction and into the espective cavity, the arms resiliently returning so that the respective locking sections engage and lock the terminal fitting when the terminal fitting substantially reaches a proper depth in the respective cavity; wherein the cavities are arranged at a plurality of stages along the deforming direction of the locks; each lock comprising an engaging portion which projects from the arm in a projecting direction that intersects the deforming direction, at least one of the engaging portions substantially facing a side wall that extends along the deforming direction of the respective cavity and being located before the locking section with respect to the deforming direction, such that said at least one engaging portion is received by the corresponding side wall to prevent the corresponding lock from undergoing excessive deformation.