Connector assembly with sequentially engageable housings

摘要

A divided connector is provided to reduce engaging forces and to enable a simplified engagement detection. The connector has male and female connector housings 1, 2; 51, 60 each carrying a group of terminal fittngs 7, 7a, 12. Either one of the connector housings 1, 2; 51, 60 is divided into a plurality of housing pieces 3, 4; 61, 62, 63 so as to be fittable and engageable with a plurality of corresponding accommodation positions in the other connector housing 1, 2; 51, 60. The connector has a controller 14-16; 18-25; 45, 47, 48; 65-74; 114-124 for controlling the fitting and/or engagement of a previously fitted and/or engaged housing piece 3, 4; 61, 62, 63, and engagement detector means 7a, 27-43 for detecting whether or not the last housing piece 3, 4; 61, 62, 63 was properly engaged.