Dual element electrical contact and connector assembly utilizing same

摘要

An electrical contact and connector assembly utilizing same wherein the contact includes a first, highly conductive element (e.g., oxygen-free copper) having a first modulus of elasticity and including a pair of contacting portions each of which is designed for engaging respective conductors on first and second circuit members, and a second, spring element (e.g., stainless steel) operatively coupled to the first conductive element and having a second modulus of elasticity greater than that of the first, conductive element. A connector assembly is also defined which includes a common housing for having the contact (preferably several) located therein. The housing is metallic (e.g., stainless steel) and includes a coating of suitable dielectric material on appropriate surfaces thereof so as to prevent electrical shorting with the internally contained contacts. A preferred coating for this purpose is polyimide.