Importance

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Abstract

A connecting device in which female and male connectors mounted respectively, for example, on a dashboard and an instrument panel are fitted and connected together simultaneously when the instrument panel is mounted on the dashboard, and a dimensional error in the connection between the female and male connectors is absorbed, thereby preventing damage to terminals and the housing. The male connector (A), holding a plurality of female terminals (16), is attached to the dashboard (a) or the instrument panel (d), and the female connector (B), holding a plurality of male terminals (21), is attached to the other. The male connector is movable toward and away from the female connector utilizing a connector holder (D). Retaining grooves (5) and flexible retaining arms (9) are respectively provided in the male connector (A) and the holder for retaining the male connector in a provisionally-fitted position where the female and male terminals are out of contact with each other when the two members (a) and (d) are assembled together. A cam member (C) is provided for moving the male connector from the provisionally-fitted position to a completely-fitted position where the female and male terminals are completely contacted with each other. In alternative embodiments, the female connector is moveable instead of, or in addition to, the male connector.

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First Claim