Delphi Offers New Flexible Beam Technology to Automotive Industry

Latest in suite of more compact, cost-effective connection systems technology

WARREN, Ohio, June 29 -- Delphi Corp. is offering the industry's first automotive application of its patented Flexible Beam Technology (FBT), which will create cost-effective and versatile solutions for its connection systems customers around the world.

Building on its successful lineup of GT 150 and 280 unsealed series connectors, Delphi Connection Systems has modified the series of female connectors to expand its United States Consortium for Automotive Research (USCAR) portfolio of products. This standardization improves cost and complexity by delivering a small, more compact system that saves space and reduces the total number of required assembly parts. At the same time, FBT also improves quality, reliability and serviceability.

"Flexible beam technology provides audible and tactile feedback so the operator can be confident a connection has been made," said John Morello, senior development engineer, Delphi Connection Systems. "The patent-pending build fixture ensures proper terminal position."

Flexible Beam Technology: How It Works

The mating terminal lead-in is molded into the connector, along with a rigid retention ramp on one side of the cavity wall and a flexible beam on the other.

When the terminal is inserted, the flexible beam acts like a spring, holding the terminal against the retention ramp.

These new features on the terminal and in the connector cavity create a higher terminal-to-connector retention force.

Removing the terminal is also simple, using a tool provided by Delphi, with no secondary pieces to remove. The entire process exceeds ISO and USCAR electrical, mechanical and environmental performance criteria.

"We are providing a technological advancement in this FBT by creating terminal position assurance without the need for additional pieces," said Brian Kogut, product manager, Delphi Connection Systems. "This allows for fewer pieces, which drives cost savings without sacrificing performance. These new components are great examples of Delphi's commitment to remaining a global leader in connection systems and in development of electrical/electronics architecture."

The simple design can be molded and manufactured at Delphi locations around the world, helping ensure on-time delivery to global customers.

"We are proud to be at the forefront in introducing this new technology and we look forward to working with manufacturers to enable them to reap the many benefits of flexible beam technology in their connection systems," said John McClearn, managing director of Delphi Connection Systems North America.

At Delphi, we help make cars safer, cleaner, more efficient, and fun to drive. For more information about Delphi Corporation (Pink Sheets: DPHIQ), visit http://www.delphi.com/ .