Zero insertion force connector for flexible flat cable
US4718859A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 16, 1987 |
| Grant date | Jan 12, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 16, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R12/83
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A zero insertion force connector is provided for flat cables having conductors on one or both sides. The ZIF connector includes a base having a plurality of generally parallel slots for receiving generally C-shaped portions of contacts with contact arms of unequal lengths. An actuator is slidably urged into contact with an initial fulcrum on the base. The actuator defines a cable channel into which the flat cable can be inserted such that the cable is guided between the arms of the C-shaped contacts. The actuator then is rotated about its initial fulcrum of the base, and the cable is urged into contact with anti-overstress fulcrums on the base. Continued rotation of the actuator urges the cable into the opposed arms of the contacts to make electrical connection. Resilient deflectable locking latches engage the actuator and hold the actuator into a fully seated condition.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.