Tricon Introduces Mini Universal Socket

DETROIT, Feb. 26 -- Tricon Industries, Inc. is expanding its bulb-retaining socket offerings by producing a Miniature Universal Socket, which provides parts consolidation and product cost reduction to customers. This socket allows the design freedom to incorporate a miniature "peanut" style bulb within a backplate design. The Miniature Universal Socket's ability to accept smaller and less expensive bulbs eliminates the need for a separate pigtail connection in a backplate design.

"In today's automotive market, our customers are always looking for cost- and design-efficient product solutions. Tricon has met that need with our Miniature Universal Socket," said Jeff Terrell, Tricon manager of product development.

The Miniature Universal Socket interfaces with the insert-molded backplate through a simple snap-in feature. Instead of running separate wires, a Miniature Universal Socket allows the insert-molded circuit to be routed according to a variety of design and styling needs. The elimination of secondary connectors and wires for the bulb function provides a cost reduction for the entire lighting system.

"Our Miniature Universal Socket offers numerous benefits for today's vehicles," said Terrell. "For example, these sockets enable customers to use miniature bulbs in the tail lamps with insert-molded backplate circuits."

The new Miniature Universal Socket, designed around what is known as the "peanut" bulb, expands Tricon's offerings within the Universal Socket System family. These bulbs are popular in side marker and back-up indicator applications.

Tricon Industries, Inc. specializes in insert molding and specialized components for worldwide automotive, mobile communications and appliance markets. Tricon was one of the first in the industry to use insert-molding techniques for the manufacture of switch and relay components as well as other electro-mechanical parts.

Some of Tricon's recent projects include complex insert-molded junction blocks and multifunction switch components, bulb taillight sockets and circuit stampings, single-bulb light sockets, alternators and encapsulated components, and mobile antenna assemblies. Today, Tricon is a QS-9000/ISO 9001-registered manufacturer both in the United States and Europe, with comprehensive design, project management and manufacturing capabilities that can be tailored to specific project requirements.

For more information, see us at the SAE 2003 World Congress in booth #600, or visit us on the Internet at www.triconinc.com .