Blind docking electrical connector
US7731524B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 21, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jun 8, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 21, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05K7/1492
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Method and apparatus for blind docking an electronic device or module with an electrical connector, for example within a rack for a computer system. A forwardly-directed power connector is secured to a distal end of at least one rail or shelf bracket for blind docking with a rearwardly-directed power connector on the electronic module. The shelf bracket securing the forwardly-directed electrical connector is included in a pair of longitudinally-extending shelf brackets secured to opposing vertical side walls of a rack at a common elevation to form a module bay. The electronic module may slide along the shelf bracket until a rearwardly-directed power connector of the electronic module blind docks with the forwardly-directed power connector. A boss or alignment stud may be included on the bracket to improve alignment of the connectors. The forwardly-direct electrical connector may also be secured to the bracket with a floating connection to enable minor adjustments in alignment during blind docking.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.