Tap splice connector

#This invention relates to a solderless connector of the type used to electrically and mechanically connect two insulated wires. Such connectors have an insulating body with longitudinal wire-receiving channels therein.

#A metal slotted contact plate extends across the channels and shears the insulation when the wires are forced into the channels. The metal plate contacts the wire conductors. A cover holds the wires in place. Examples of such prior art connectors are seen in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,587,239; 3,793,611 and 3,858,157.

#Prior art connectors as described above have required substantial force to be exerted against the cover to force the wires into the contact element slots and shear the wire insulation. Such force had to be exerted simultaneously against both wires that were being joined.

#BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

#FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the connector showing both covers unlatched, with wires pushed within the pockets of the connector. The wires are shown in phantom.

#FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the closed connector of the invention showing the connector connecting two insulated wires.

#A connector 20 has a body portion 21 and hinge covers 22 and 23. Body portion 21 is formed in an S-shaped cross section having a first bend 25 and a second bend 26 with ends of the S-shaped cross section at 27 and 28. The connector extends a suitable length longitudinally to provide a secure support for a wire, as will be explained. The connector may be, for instance a 1/2 inch length for connecting insulted wires of, for instance, 18 gauge. The connector is made of a polypropylene plastic or other suitable insulating material by, for instance, injection molding.

#Each of the bends of the S, 25 and 26, form respective pockets, or grooves 30 and 31, of a cross-sectional size and shape to conform to the outside diameter of an insulated wire conductor 32. The wire 32 has therein a metallic strand or solid conductor element 33 and is covered by insulation 34, as is well known. Pocket 31 is of an identical shape and size to pocket 30 and conforms to the diameter of the insulated wire 35 having therein conductor 36.

#Cover 22 is hinged at 37 to body 21 at end 27 of the S-shaped cross section. The hinge extends longitudinally along the body, and is formed integrally with the body, having interior ridges 38 whereby the cover can be readily pivoted without interference. Cover 22 is of a flat, rigid shape and has extending at right angles therefrom a U-shaped latch portion40 which has an internal opening 41 of rectangular shape. Cover 22 has formed on one surface a ridge 42 with a curvature 43 formed within the ridge. Curvature 43 conforms to the circumference of wire 32 as best seen in FIG. 2. A slot 45 extends transversely through ridge 42 at a position which will correspond to the location of a metallic contact plate 46 which is secured within body 21 as will be explained. Cover 22 is able to swing from an open position as is seen in FIG. 1 to a closed position as is seen in FIG. 2. Cover 22 has ridges 47 formed on its outside as seen in FIG. 2 in order to provide a corrugated surface for better gripping and strength during the connect and disconnect operation of the conductor. The number of ridges may vary.