Ceramic receptacle for temperature probes and the like

Abstract

An insulative, high temperature receptacle is provided. Preferably the receptacle is made from ceramic using a ceramic injection molding (CIM) or dry press operation. Such an operation allows for a single piece ceramic receptacle body to include features for assembly to be integrated into the single piece. Conductive electrical terminals may then be inserted to complete the assembly. The receptacle body includes a mounting interface that allows the receptacle to be mounted in, for example, an appliance. Since ceramic is non-conductive, a standard inexpensive two-wire temperature probe may be utilized for applications in a cooking appliance. The ceramic body includes a groove to receive a male connector portion, and the electrical terminals are biased to provide a secure electrical and mechanical contact during operation. A terminal separation structure is also provided to ensure electrical isolation between the electrical terminals thereof.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.