NOVI, Mich., Feb. 20, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- FCI USA, Inc., a leading supplier of electrical connectors to the OEM automotive industry, introduces the ErgoMate(tm) Axial Mate Assist System now available on the new USCAR compliant APEX(r) 24-circuit hybrid connector. ErgoMate is a new way to mate larger connectors that improves reliability and ergonomics, shrinks packaging space and reduces connection time, announced Ed de Chazal, FCI North America marketing manager.
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Most larger connectors require some type of mate assist feature (bolt assist, lever, or other source of mechanical advantage) to enable the assembly plant operator or mechanic to make the connection. FCI's all-new ErgoMate features a unique geared cam and slider design that is far more ergonomically friendly, accurate and faster for the user. All forces and actions to make the connection are in one axial direction. A single hand movement accomplishes the connection. "Until now, typical mate assist devices, such as lever based systems, required two hands and time-consuming finessing to ensure the connector is properly mated. Our goal was to develop a mate assist system that could be mated with the simplicity and mating force of a smaller in-line connection," explained Frank Holub, FCI senior engineer.
ErgoMate's efficient design eliminates the bulk and clearance requirements of typical mate assists, an important consideration especially for electronic control module manufacturers. FCI has interface drawings for ECM interfaces available now.
The lead application for ErgoMate technology is FCI's new Apex 24-way hybrid connector for wire-to-wire sealed applications. Unlike typical cable sealed connectors, the APEX 24-way employs a grommet sealing system, reducing costs and wire harness assembly complexity.
This versatile connector features two sizes of APEX terminals: the APEX 2.8 (2.8 mm) for up to eight power circuits (rated up to 33 A in the connector) and the Apex 150 (1.5 mm) for up to 16 signal or mid-power circuits (rated up to 20 A). Shorting bars used to short adjacent safety circuits together (when the connector is unmated) are available for all of the signal circuits.
The APEX 24-way hybrid meets all applicable USCAR design guidelines and has been qualified to USCAR's latest performance standards. The APEX 24-way hybrid with ErgoMate is released for production and already designed into several North American vehicle platforms. For a sample of this product and additional information, please visit www.fciapex.com.
The APEX line of 1.5mm and 2.8mm terminals and connectors have proven reliable in nearly 15 years of automotive and commercial vehicle use, particularly in harsh environments that include heat, moisture, vibration and rugged handling. All APEX terminals feature a two-piece box and pre-loaded spring construction creating a high normal force for exceptional vibration resistance while retaining a low insertion force for excellent ergonomics. APEX connectors come pre-assembled, further simplifying logistics and reducing costs.
About FCI
With operations in 30 countries and sales of 1.3 billion euros in 2006, FCI is a leading manufacturer of connectors. Our 13,500 employees are committed to providing customers with high-quality, innovative products for a wide range of consumer and industrial applications.
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For more information: www.fci.com
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