Thin profile stacked layer contact

摘要

A connector is described herein that includes a plurality of layers patterned in two dimensions and joined in a stack with a bore there through. At least a subset of the plurality of layers are contact layers that include deflectable members (e.g., springs) that deflect in plane or out of plane upon insertion of a lead into the bore through the connector. The deflectable members form redundant electrical connections with the lead when the lead is inserted into the bore. For example, the connector can be incorporated into an implantable medical device (e.g., IPG). Moreover, methods of manufacturing a connector are set forth herein.

主权项

1. An electrical connector, comprising:
a plurality of layers with respective cylindrical apertures therethrough, wherein the plurality of layers are joined in a stack with the respective cylindrical apertures aligned to define a bore through the stack, wherein a lead is receivable in the bore; and at least one of the plurality of layers being a contact block comprised of a conductive material that includes a plurality of individual thin deflector layers, w herein each one of said individual thin deflector layers comprises a plurality of integral deflectable members each having an end portion or flag extending into the bore of the contact block from a wall of the cylindrical aperture of the respective deflector layer, wherein the deflectable members end portions or tabs are deflected by the lead such that the deflectable members of all of said individual thin layers of the contact block act in concert to form an electrical connection with a given conductive portion of the lead when the lead is received in the bore.