Modular I/O system with two-way connectors between units and a common lock for multiple plug-in modules
US6033268A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 1997 |
| Grant date | Mar 7, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 30, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S439/953
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The bases of modular units of an I/O system are connected serially by two-way electrical and mechanical connectors so that units can be inserted into and removed from lines of units connected to a controller without removal or movement of any other unit. By two-way connector is meant that confronting connectors on adjacent units disengage by movement in the same or opposite direction from that in which they engaged. The electrical connectors distribute a communication bus and power to the modular units. In addition, plug-in electronics modules and personality modules, with the latter providing selective interfaces between the electronics modules and banks of terminals for landing field wiring, have a common locking mechanism for locking both in sockets in the bases. The locking mechanism includes at least one locking assembly having a shaft rotatable from a free end of the electronics module for rotating a paddle into and out of engagement with a catch in the base. Overlapping shoulders prevent removal of the personality module without first unlatching and removing the electronics module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.