Connector locking system using a temperature responsive spring
US9112307B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 6, 2013 |
| Grant date | Aug 18, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 18, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/21
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A secure locking system includes: a case (10) having at least one transverse orifice (33) that opens to the surface of the case; a locking ring (20) having a notched wall (22), which can be locked at one end of the case; a spring (31) housed in the orifice of the case; a ball (32) installed at least partially in the orifice of the case, above the spring. The spring is made of a shape-memory material, which assumes: an elastic state when an environmental temperature is less than or equal to a critical temperature of the shape-memory material, this elastic state enabling movement of the ball in the orifice; or a hardened state when an environmental temperature is higher than the critical temperature of the shape-memory material, this hardened state preventing any movement of the ball in the orifice. A connector and connector assembly including the locking system are described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.