Tricon Industries: Mini Universal Socket Production Application

DETROIT, March 8 -- Tricon Industries, Inc. is finalizing the first production version of its Miniature Universal Socket for a Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) application. This application will utilize four Miniature Universal Sockets in a common backplate using a 921 "peanut" style bulb. The Miniature Universal Socket's ability to handle the high heat associated with this application has allowed the customer more styling and design freedom.

"With the increase in heat and vibration in these new applications, customers need to find a robust and cost efficient solution that also provides styling flexibility. Tricon has met that need with our Miniature Universal Socket," said Bill McDannel, Tricon manager of product development.

The Miniature Universal Socket interfaces mechanically and electrically with an insert-molded backplate through a simple snap-in feature. Instead of running separate wires, the Socket and Backplate System allows routing of the insert-molded circuit according to a variety of design and styling needs. The elimination of additional connectors and wiring for each bulb provides a cost reduction for the entire lighting system.

"Our Miniature Universal Socket offers numerous benefits for today's vehicles," said McDannel. "For example, these sockets now enable customers to use the miniature bulbs in various lighting applications with our insert- molded backplate circuits."

This new Miniature Universal Socket expands Tricon's Universal Socket System to add the "peanut" bulb to the family. These bulbs are popular in side marker, back-up indicator and CHMSL 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 electrically oriented parts.

Some of Tricon's recent projects include complex insert-molded junction blocks and multifunction switch components, sealed bulb taillight sockets and circuit stampings, single-bulb light sockets, alternators and encapsulated components, and mobile antenna assemblies. 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. In addition, Tricon will be TS 16949 compliant by May, 2004.

For more information, visit us on the Internet at www.triconinc.com .

NOTE TO EDITORS: Please visit Tricon at SAE World Congress, booth number 501.