Connector with a rotatably coupled cam shaft having a connect-assist element
US8936497B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jan 20, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 18, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49204
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A connector apparatus is provided which includes a connector and a mechanical connect-assist mechanism associated, at least in part, with the connector. The connector is configured to operatively plug into a socket structure, and the mechanical connect-assist mechanism includes a cam shaft rotatably coupled to the connector and a connect-assist element projecting from the rotatable cam shaft. The connect-assist element is configured to engage at least one element-receiving opening associated with the socket structure with insertion of the connector within the socket structure. Rotating of the rotatable cam shaft moves the connect-assist element within the at least one element-receiving opening to facilitate secure seating and retention of the connector within the socket structure. In one embodiment, the connect-assist element is a rod extending transverse through the rotatable cam shaft, and configured to engage first and second element-receiving openings associated with the socket structure on opposite sides of the connector.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.