Connector position assurance element with lock protection feature

摘要

A connector position assurance (CPA) element and lock arm structure for mating connector housings in which the CPA element has three-stage insertion and two-stage withdrawal with complementary locking and release-preventing engagement with the lock arm and connector housing in each of the positions. The CPA element is first inserted partway underneath the lock arm on the first housing to a pre-set position in which it is not easily removed from the housing. The connector with the pre-set CPA element is next inserted into a second connector housing, in which the CPA element is released from the pre-set position to a pre-locked position. The CPA element can then be fully inserted underneath the lock arm from the pre-locked position to a fully-locked position in which it provides both a visual indication of complete connector mating and strengthens the locking engagement between the connector housings.