Delphi Simplifies Electrical Harness Assembly

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS
Delphi Simplifies Electrical Harness AssemblyFRANKFURT, GERMANY, Sep 23, 2007) - As vehicles' electrical content increases and available packaging space decreases, the development of Electrical/Electronic (E/E) architecture has evolved into a more prominent role in the transportation industry. One technology facilitating miniaturization from Delphi Corp., waferized joint connectors, was displayed at the recently completed Frankfurt International Auto Show (IAA). Built from a number of smaller components known as wafers, Delphi's waferized joint connection systems use just three or four terminal cavities as compared to the traditional method of using ten or more cavities per harness. These connectors work independently of each other and have integrated secondary terminal locks, making the assembly process more flexible and less complex. Fewer wafers can be used in the overall wiring harness design, they do not need to be assembled in sequence, and a single wafer can be removed without disturbing other terminals. "Using a smaller wafer in a joint connector allows us to be more efficient in our electrical system design. The presence of unused cavities is greatly reduced, allowing the joint connector to be smaller and more cost efficient," Dave Wright, global director, innovation & E/E architecture, Delphi Packard E/EA, said. "These connectors dramatically impact the way that vehicle wiring systems are assembled, improving quality and accommodating option content in a cost-effective manner," Wright added. "Now, more than ever, vehicle manufacturers need a supplier capable of analyzing their electrical content needs, and designing intelligent technologies such as these waferized joint connectors to save them space and capital."(Source: Delphi Corp.)