Parallel To Connection Patents (Class 439/362)
  • Patent number: 6777619
    Abstract: An electrical connector comprises a housing configured to house an interconnect mechanism, which defines an on-axis plane that is coplanar with the long axis of the interconnect mechanism. The housing includes at least two receptacles for accepting coupling mechanisms for interconnecting the connector to an electronic component. The centerline axis of at least one of the receptacles is parallel to the on-axis plane and offset from the on-axis plane. In one embodiment, the housing further comprises a first lip having a long axis that is parallel with the on-axis plane, such that when the connector is interconnected to an electronic component, the first lip applies an off-axis force to the component. The off-axis force is applied to the component along a first off-axis that is different than the on-axis. Consequently, resistance to deflection of the connector is provided, as is a more reliable contact engagement between the connector and the interconnected electronic component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Curt Von Badinski, William Edwards, Michael Kornprobst, Bradley Erickson, Samir Vasavda
  • Patent number: 6767220
    Abstract: System for electrically interconnecting components are provided. One such system comprises: a flex cable having a first end and a second end; a first connector attached to a electrically communicating with the first end of the flex cable; a second connector attached to and electrically communicating with the second end of the flex cable; and a first retention member extending outwardly from the flex cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Jeremy Ian Wilson, Andrew Harvey Barr, Stephan Karl Barsun
  • Publication number: 20040137780
    Abstract: An electrical connector (1) includes a front housing portion (10), a rear housing portion (12) engageable with the front housing portion, a contact module (14) sandwiched between the front and rear housing portions and four screws (16) retained by the front and rear housing portions. The front housing portion provides four projection (28) at respective comers thereof and the rear housing portion provides four ear portions (46) at respective comers thereof in accordance with corresponding projections. The projections and the ear portions may cooperatively retain respective screws therein and the screws may be released from the projections and the ear portions when the rear housing portion is disengaged from the front housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry Wu
  • Publication number: 20040102076
    Abstract: An electrical cable connector assembly (1) includes a contact module (20), an upper cover (40), a lower cover (50), a pair of fastening members (60), an electrical cable (70) and a pair of screws (80). The contact module has an insulative housing (22) assembled with the lower cover, a number of electrical contacts (24) mounted to the insulative housing and a printed circuit board (26) assembled to the insulative housing. The electrical cable is electrically connected with the electrical contacts through the printed circuit board. The upper cover is assembled to the lower cover with the help of the screws and together with the upper cover movably secures the fastening members therebetween. Each of the fastening member includes a transitional portion for engaging with an engaging section of a passage defined by the upper and the lower covers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry Wu
  • Patent number: 6736667
    Abstract: A cable connector assembly (1) includes a cover, an insulative housing (20), a number of contacts (22) retained in the insulative housing, a cable (7) electrically connected with the contacts, and a first and a second pull tabs (8). The cover includes a first and a second covers (3, 4) joined together to define a front end and a rear end opposite to the front end. The rear end defines a receiving space (46) therein. The insulative housing is situated at the front end of the cover. The first pull tab (81) includes a first engaging section (812), and the second pull tab (82) includes a second engaging section (822). The first engaging section engages with the second engaging section of the second pull tab and the engaged first and the second engaging sections are together received in the receiving space of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jerry Wu
  • Patent number: 6716035
    Abstract: A device to be detachably attached to a mechanical substructure includes rails on opposed sides joined at the front by a cross member. A pair of guides mounted on the substructure slidably receives and retains the rails upon attachment of the device. An alignment pin extending from a rail mates with a hole in one of the guides to insure alignment of an electrical connector of the device with an electrical connector mounted on the substructure. The cross member includes screws for securing the cross member to the substructure. A spring extending from a rail makes electrical contact with an adjacent guide and an electrostatic discharge contact plate to discharge any existing static charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Adtron Corporation
    Inventors: James A. Haager, Kevin L. Kilzer, Daniel P. Fogelson, Ronald E. Tupa
  • Patent number: 6688903
    Abstract: A connector device includes lock male screws which can be screwed to lock female screws of an apparatus on which a locking operation is carried out, nuts for freely inserting the lock male screws and for allowing movement of the lock male screws between a screwed position and a non-screwed position, and lock female screws which, with the lock male screws being retracted to the non-screwed positions, are screwed to the nuts, and which are screwed to lock male screws of the apparatus on which a locking operation is carried out. By switching the states of the lock female screws between a mounting state and a non-mounting state with respect to the nuts, the lock screws of the connector device can be used even if the forms of the lock screws change with respect to the connector device. This causes the female connector and the male connector to be firmly secured together, thereby making the connector device more versatile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wataru Kakinoki, Masanori Tsubono
  • Patent number: 6679721
    Abstract: The present invention is a module insertion tool for anchoring a module to a motherboard. The module insertion tool has two drivers on either side of the tool that operate independently of each other, and help in anchoring the module to the motherboard. There is a knob built into the tool. The knob is connected to a chain that turns the drivers until a preset torque value is reached. The two drivers built into the tool are independent of each other and each driver turns until the preset torque value has been reached. This preset torque value can be obtained by either manually turning the knob, or by attaching an electric source to a socket built into the knob. There are three locators on a bottom plate of the tool that help in the alignment of the module to the tool, and there are locking pins on each driver that hold the module stationary while the module is being anchored to the motherboard by the drivers of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dong-Hyon Kim
  • Publication number: 20040009697
    Abstract: A cable connector retaining system includes a cable connector retaining assembly having a connector block and a movable retention block with a connector retention fastener, e.g., a threaded fastener. The system also includes a plate having a connector mounted thereon and a connector retention feature, e.g., a threaded hole, positioned adjacent to the connector. The connector block has a connector housed in an overmold jacket and connectable to the plate's connector. The connectors may be USB-type connectors, for example. The retention block is movably mounted to the connector block's overmold jacket so that the retention block's connector retention fastener may be aligned with the plate's connector retention feature. Once aligned, the connector retention fastener may be engaged with the connection retention feature. Movement of the retention block allows a single cable connector retaining assembly to be used for multiple plate configurations (i.e., with the connector retention feature at different positions).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Garrison Clark, Ray Clement Laning, Christopher Michael Marroquin, Brian Joseph Stanczyk, Randall Vincent Tointon
  • Patent number: 6676417
    Abstract: Systems for electrically interconnecting components are provided. One such system comprises: a flex cable having a first end and a second end; a first connector attached to and electrically communicating with the first end of the flex cable; a second connector attached to and electrically communicating with the second end of the flex cable; and a first retention member extending outwardly from the flex cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Jeremy Ian Wilson, Andrew Harvey Barr, Stephan Karl Barsun
  • Patent number: 6626692
    Abstract: There is provided an insertion and withdrawal connector apparatus in which a plurality of connectors can move only in a range of capable of engaging and separating with and from a plurality of mating connectors within a connector receiving body. A connector receiving body (1) has a pair of parallel frames (3), a pair of frame blocks (4) positioned at both end portions, and a plurality of partition members (5). One connector (10) and one mating connector are received in each of a plurality of space portions, that is, receiving chambers partitioned by a pair of frames, a pair of frame blocks, and a plurality of partition members. Each of the partition members has a pair of lances (5f, 5g) having a spring characteristic and each of the connectors has a pair of interlocking groove portions (10g) on both side surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignees: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited, NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Toshihiko Maeda, Yoshinori Mizusawa, Osamu Hashiguchi, Kazuomi Sato, Hisashi Ishida, Hiroyuki Tsuzuki, Masahiro Yamada, Masahiro Yamauchi
  • Publication number: 20030166356
    Abstract: A modular bare die socket assembly for attaching a plurality of miniature semiconductor dice to a substrate. The socket assembly is comprised of a plurality of two-sided plates joined vertically in a horizontal stack, wherein each plate has a die socket for the removable insertion of a bare semiconductor die. A multi-layer interconnect lead tape has a plurality of lithographically formed leads bent on one end to form nodes for attachment to bond pads on the removably inserted semiconductor die, and having opposing ends connectable to the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventors: Warren M. Farnworth, David J. Corisis, Salman Akram
  • Patent number: 6582244
    Abstract: A plug and receptacle assembly comprises a plug connector and receptacle connector, for high-density interconnections of data cable. The two connectors are fully shielded and include a mating profile including a modified D-shaped configuration where one end of the shroud includes a concave radiused portion and two jackscrews or threaded inserts are located within the area formed by the concave radiused portion. In this manner, the entire width of the connector assembly is reduced for high-density interconnections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael W Fogg, David M Wiebking, Randy G Simmons, Kurt T Zarbock, Kevin J Peterson
  • Patent number: 6582252
    Abstract: An electrical cable termination connector (10) includes a front shell (20), a printed circuit board (PCB) (30), a terminal insert (40), a back shell (50), a spacer (60), latches (72), and a boot (70). The PCB has a first edge (34) and a second edge (36) positioned at right angles to each other. First solder pads (33) along the first edge are electrically connected to corresponding second solder pads (35) along the second edge by traces (37) in the PCB. The PCB attaches to a rear of the front shell and terminals in the terminal insert electrically connect to the first solder pads. Stiff, shielded wires (80) of a cable (90) are fixed in the spacer, and conductors (81) of the wires are attached to the second solder pads. This design enables a 90 degree connection between a cable and a mating connector, without sharp bending of the shielded cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuan Chieh Lin
  • Publication number: 20030092307
    Abstract: A backshell for forming an electrical connection with a cabinet, the backshell including at least one electrical connector, a deflection arm coupled to one end of the backshell for engaging a cam on a cabinet which holds a receiving connector, and a fastener on the opposite end of the backshell from the deflection arm. The deflection arm provides a clamping force when the fastener is fully engaged, and helps form a strong mechanical connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Robert N. Hirschberg, Roger A. Baerman, John W. Bodle, Brett A. Eddy, Rob Overman
  • Patent number: 6561835
    Abstract: A backshell for forming an electrical connection with a cabinet, the backshell including at least one electrical connector, a deflection arm coupled to one end of the backshell for engaging a cam on a cabinet which holds a receiving connector, and a fastener on the opposite end of the backshell from the deflection arm. The deflection arm provides a clamping force when the fastener is fully engaged, and helps form a strong mechanical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Robert N. Hirschberg, Roger A. Baerman, John W. Bodle, Brett A. Eddy, Rob Overman
  • Patent number: 6554635
    Abstract: Interface devices for use in a computer system are provided. A representative interface device includes an interface connector and an interface adapter. The interface connector is configured to mate with the connector of a computing device. The interface adapter engages the interface connector and defines a first alignment surface. The first alignment surface is configured to engage a first protrusion of the computing device as the interface connector is moved toward mating engagement with the connector of the computing device. So configured, the interface connector can be aligned with the connector of the computing device prior engagement of the interface connector with the connector of the computing device. Other systems also are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Co., L.P.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Ayers, Dean Richtsmeier
  • Publication number: 20030073337
    Abstract: A cable end connector includes a casing inside which a connector body is retained. Two fasteners are mounted in the casing on opposite sides of the connector body.. Each fastener includes an elongate rod having opposite ends on which a knob and a threading are respectively formed. A C-ring is mounted on the rod for supporting a helical spring that biases the rod in a predetermined direction. The helical spring has a number of regular turns having an outside diameter and an additional turn having an inside diameter corresponding to the outside diameter of the regular turns. The additional turns surrounds the last one of the regular turns, forming a continuous end turn having no unsecured free end of the wire that makes the spring. The continuous end turn is arranged against the C-ring and the continuity thereof ensures and effectively maintains the abutting engagement between the helical spring and the C-ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Yang-Chu Guo
  • Patent number: 6544062
    Abstract: An array of coaxial cable connectors includes a generally cylindrical-shaped first female member with an inner surface having at least one set of left-hand threads adapted to engage complementary threads on a first male port. A generally cylindrical-shaped second female member has an inner surface including at least one set of right-hand threads adapted to engage complementary threads on a second male port. A mounting member allows for rotation of each of the first and second female members about their respective longitudinal axes while maintaining a portion of the outer surface of the first female member (preferably configured as a gear) in contact with a portion of the outer surface of the second female member (preferably configured as a complementary gear). In operation, rotation of the first female member about its longitudinal axis results in a corresponding rotation of the second female member about its longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Huber & Suhner, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Whitcomb Loveless, Thomas Peter Dix
  • Publication number: 20030045154
    Abstract: Interface devices for use in a computer system are provided. A representative interface device includes an interface connector and an interface adapter. The interface connector is configured to mate with the connector of a computing device. The interface adapter engages the interface connector and defines a first alignment surface. The first alignment surface is configured to engage a first protrusion of the computing device as the interface connector is moved toward mating engagement with the connector of the computing device. So configured, the interface connector can be aligned with the connector of the computing device prior engagement of the interface connector with the connector of the computing device. Other systems also are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Raymond L. Ayers, Dean Richtsmeier
  • Patent number: 6522532
    Abstract: A cable docking system and method according to which a connector is secured to one end of a cable, and a docking box is connected to the other end of the cable. A terminal on the connector is engaged with a corresponding terminal on an electronic device, such as a computer, and a locking mechanism locks the connector to the device with the terminals in engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Reynold Liao, Cassius J. Mullen
  • Patent number: 6520791
    Abstract: A jackscrew system preventing undesired problems during mating and de-mating of miniature electrical connectors. The jackscrew includes a thrust shoulder that separates the jackscrew threads from the remainder of the shaft. A “C-shaped” retaining ring is closed onto a diameter of the jackscrew shaft adjacent shoulder and the head of the jackscrew. A counter-bore is provided in the plug connector body into which the crimp ring enters when under the load of de-mating the connector from the receptacle. The counter-bore acts to restrict the crimp ring from opening under mating and de-mate forces when the thrust shoulder applies such forces against the crimp ring land thereby against the plug body, and thus assures retention of the crimp ring under mating and de-mating operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Logistics AG
    Inventor: Edward W. Burger
  • Publication number: 20030022546
    Abstract: A load voltage socket is provided for monitoring the load voltage across a CRT during aging so as to determine the current aging condition. The socket is insertable between the CRT and an aging line socket. The socket is provided with a plurality of banana plugs or other connecting means by which the load voltage socket may be conveniently connected to a voltage meter or other measuring instrument for the purposes of monitoring or determining the current aging condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Brian Solomich, David Allen Murtishaw, Edward Martinez
  • Publication number: 20020182925
    Abstract: A cable connector backshell assembly for high frequency applications requiring reduced electromagnetic emissions. Aspects include providing sufficient physical spacing and electrical isolation between the signal conductors and the housing to meet EMI standards for HIPPI-6400 connector assemblies. One embodiment includes spring preloading of the electrical connecter. One embodiment includes a longitudinally floating connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: Silicon Graphics, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Friesen, Val Mandrusov
  • Publication number: 20020173195
    Abstract: A jackscrew system preventing undesired problems during mating and de-mating of miniature electrical connectors. The jackscrew includes a thrust shoulder that separates the jackscrew threads from the remainder of the shaft. A “C-shaped” retaining ring is closed onto a diameter of the jackscrew shaft adjacent shoulder and the head of the jackscrew. A counter-bore is provided in the plug connector body into which the crimp ring enters when under the load of de-mating the connector from the receptacle. The counter-bore acts to restrict the crimp ring from opening under mating and de-mate forces when the thrust shoulder applies such forces against the crimp ring and thereby against the plug body, and thus assures retention of the crimp ring under mating and de-mating operating conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Applicant: Nanonics Corporation
    Inventor: Edward W. Burger
  • Patent number: 6471543
    Abstract: A connector (6) includes a device (11) for securing it to a bulkhead or panel (14) of an enclosure. The device comprises a steel retaining clip (11) which is pushed over each jackpost (9) of the connector (6) and engages in a slot (10). the clip retains the connector (6) against the bulkhead (14) while a mating connector is attached, without the need for any nut and bolt arrangement or bulkhead fixing screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Matra BAe Dynamics (UK) Limited
    Inventors: David Balcombe, John Boocock
  • Publication number: 20020146926
    Abstract: A plug and receptacle assembly comprises a plug connector and receptacle connector, for high-density interconnections of data cable. The two connectors are fully shielded and include a mating profile including a modified D-shaped configuration where one end of the shroud includes a concave radiused portion and two jackscrews or threaded inserts are located within the area formed by the concave radiused portion. In this manner, the entire width of the connector assembly is reduced for high-density interconnections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: Michael W. Fogg, David M. Wiebking, Randy G. Simmons, Kurt T. Zarbock, Kevin J. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6439916
    Abstract: An electrical adapter (1) comprises an insulative housing (10) having opposite first and second poles (14, 16), a first electrical connector (20) and a second electrical connector (30) fastened at the first and second poles, respectively. The second pole defines a slot (11) opened in a top face (162) and an inside face (164) thereof and a through hole (13) below and communicating with the slot. A screw member (40) is inserted into the slot from above of the second pole. Then, the screw member is pushed toward the first pole to lie down between the first and second poles. Finally, the screw member is pushed forward so that it extends beyond the second pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chin Pao Kuo
  • Publication number: 20020106928
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a conductive connecting structure of a pipe-type lamp, which mainly includes a receiver provided at the end of the electrical wire in the pipe-type lamp for conductive connecting with the pin easily. It also provides a clip to engage with the conductive wire of the bulb firmly and conveniently and it is possible to control each bulb being positioned at a same interval for a perfect lighting decorative effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventor: Wun Fang Pan
  • Patent number: 6428342
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a conductive connecting structure of a pipe-type lamp, which mainly includes a receiver provided at the end of the electrical wire in the pipe-type lamp for conductive connecting with the pin easily. It also provides a clip to engage with the conductive wire of the bulb firmly and conveniently and it is possible to control each bulb being positioned at a same interval for a perfect lighting decorative effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventor: Wun Fang Pan
  • Patent number: 6425777
    Abstract: An electrical cabinet configured to accept a number of individual circuit boards and provide a mechanism for remotely interconnecting movable connectors on each circuit board with stationary connectors mounted within the electrical cabinet. The circuit boards are grouped into a number of circuit board assemblies. Each circuit board assembly includes a frame configured to cooperate with a slot in the cabinet to align the movable connector elements on the circuit boards with the stationary connector elements in the cabinet. The circuit boards each include a first mechanism acting from a remote location to gently urge the counterpart connector elements together, and a second mechanism also acting from a remote location to gently disengage the mated connector elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Cray Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander I. Yatskov
  • Patent number: 6406315
    Abstract: A mechanism is provided for moving each of a plurality of second connectors (32) into engagement with each of a plurality of first connectors (31), where selective movement of the second connectors can be accomplished at a front panel (54) that is distant from the connectors. An elongated turning member (52) has a front end handle (50) that can be turned about an axis (122), with the rear of the turning member coupled to a selected one of a plurality of gear devices (61-64) that each moves a different second connector when that gear device is turned. A selector (70) that extends parallel to the turning member, has a selector front end handle (72) that can be turned to a selected position, to turn cam portions (132-135) at the rear end of the selector. Each cam portion can push a corresponding coupler (120) that can slide within a slot (134) in the turning member, so the coupler engages a cutout (124) in the gear device to thereby rotatably connect the turning member to the gear device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Linsday Bates, III, Peter Joseph Hyzin
  • Publication number: 20020068476
    Abstract: A connector device includes lock male screws which can be screwed to lock female screws of an apparatus on which a locking operation is carried out, nuts for freely inserting the lock male screws and for allowing movement of the lock male screws between a screwed position and a non-screwed position, and lock female screws which, with the lock male screws being retracted to the non-screwed positions, are screwed to the nuts, and which are screwed to lock male screws of the apparatus on which a locking operation is carried out. By switching the states of the lock female screws between a mounting state and a non-mounting state with respect to the nuts, the lock screws of the connector device can be used even if the forms of the lock screws change with respect to the connector device. This causes the female connector and the male connector to be firmly secured together, thereby making the connector device more versatile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Wataru Kakinoki, Masanori Tsubono
  • Patent number: 6364688
    Abstract: A retainer screw for maintaining a retained device such as a cable connector in a connected condition with a host device is provided with a torque disconnecting mechanism that responds to the axial movement of the retainer screw and disconnects the drive of the screw before the screw bottoms in the receiving nut. Disconnecting the drive not only prevents undue torque from being applied to the screw but also prevents seizure of the screw by the nut, preventing easy removal. Also, the disconnecting mechanism continues to provide connection of the drive torque in an unthreading direction notwithstanding the inability of the screw to be driven in the threading direction. The drive member of the retainer screw is allowed to ratchet relative to the screw to relieve the torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: John Francis Fraley, II, Brian Joseph Stanczyk
  • Publication number: 20020022396
    Abstract: A plug device for an electric facility includes a front portion having one or more prongs or plugs for plugging to the electric facility and having four L-shaped forwardly extending legs for engaging with the electric facility and for stably attaching the plug device onto the electric facility. One or more fasteners may secure the plug device to the electric facility. The rear portion of the plug device includes one or more sockets for receiving and for engaging various kinds of plugs or includes one or more electric wires coupled to the plug device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Sung Chiang Wu
  • Patent number: 6343957
    Abstract: A DVI electrical adapter (2) for electrically connecting a monitor to a host computer having different interfaces includes a combined digital & analog receptacle connector (21), a digital-only plug connector (22), two printed circuit boards (PCBs) (23) joined between the plug connector and the receptacle connector, an insulative housing (20) insert molded over a center of the DVI adapter and a pair of elongated fasteners (24). The elongated fasteners project through two sides of the insulative housing and include a first fixing end (241) and a second fixing end (243). The second fixing end engages with nuts of a complementary receptacle connector mounted on the host computer. The first fixing end has a threaded recess accepting screws from a cable plug connector attached to the monitor. The DVI electrical adapter has a smaller size and simpler structure, and is simpler to use than prior art DVI connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu-Jen Kuo, Chin-Pao Kuo
  • Patent number: 6338631
    Abstract: An electrical coupler which is capable of being easily assembled into a main unit for electrically detachable interconnection of an external unit to the main unit. The coupler includes a dielectric header which carries an array of first terminal ends and an array of second terminal ends which are engageable with an arrays of first contacts of the main unit and an array of second contacts of the external unit for establishing an electrical interconnection. The header is made of a rigid material which integrally supports the array of the second terminal ends to define thereat a terminal connector responsible for detachable connection to the external unit. The header is molded to have a mount flange as an integral part for securely fixing the header to an enclosure of the main unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shunsuke Hashimoto, Kenji Okura
  • Publication number: 20020001989
    Abstract: A cable connector backshell assembly for high frequency applications requiring reduced electromagnetic emissions. Aspects include providing sufficient physical spacing and electrical isolation between the signal conductors and the housing to meet EMI standards for HIPPI-6400 connector assemblies. One embodiment includes spring preloading of the electrical connecter. One embodiment includes a longitudinally floating connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Applicant: Silicon Graphics, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Friesen, Val Mandrusov
  • Patent number: 6305965
    Abstract: An equipment assembly includes a housing and a sub-unit each having a large array of electrical contacts which mate when the sub-unit is inserted into the housing. The sub-unit has a plurality of threaded bolts which extend through the sub-unit to engage with cooperating threaded nuts secured to the housing. The plurality of bolts is linked together mechanically, so that all bolts engage simultaneously with their respective nuts, and draw the sub-unit into engagement with the housing as the bolts are rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Marconi Communications S.p.A.
    Inventor: Claudio D'Inca
  • Patent number: 6296509
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to vertically mount a first printed circuit board into a high-density connector on a second circuit board using one or more torque-limiting screws. A suitable support structure or support surface may be mounted on the second circuit board with the top of the support structure lying below the high-density connector in such a manner as to align the connecting edge on the first circuit board with the longitudinal opening in the high-density connector when the first circuit board is placed on the top surface of the support structure. One or more torque-limiting screws may be mounted on appropriated edges of the first circuit board. One or more grooved channels, preferably equal in number to the torque-limiting screws on the first circuit board, may be provided on the top of the support structure. The torque-limiting screws on the first circuit board are oriented in line with the corresponding grooved channels when the first circuit board is placed on the top of the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Winnie C. Leung, Kenneth Kitlas, Anita Patel
  • Patent number: 6273742
    Abstract: An electrical connector (10) includes a housing having a plurality of contacts (24) mounted therein and at least one screw member (40) attached to the housing for securing the housing to a mating connector (100). The screw member (40) includes a head (42) with a ratchet (50) disposed along a forward end (48) thereof. The housing includes at least one protrusion (54) adapted to engage the ratchet (50) of the screw member. The housing further includes at least one spring member (26) adapted to provide axial compression between the ratchet (50) and the housing protrusion (54) to assure the ratchet (50) remains engaged to the protrusion (54) thereby preventing the screw member (40) from inadvertently becoming loosened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: The Whitaker Corporation
    Inventors: Lou Castagna, John Anthony Fulponi
  • Patent number: 6241548
    Abstract: A locking device for joining first and second mating connectors together includes a pair of first locking members movably received in the first connector and a pair of second locking members retained in the second connector corresponding to the pair of first locking members. Each first locking member includes a bolt having a threaded portion and a latch rotatably positioned beside the bolt. The latch defines an opening in a head thereof and forms at least one spring arm by which the latch is biased to engage the second locking member. Each second locking member includes a retention portion, an expanded portion opposing the retention portion and a recessed portion between the retention portion and the expanded portion. The expanded portion defines an inner-threaded hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter Kuo
  • Patent number: 6227897
    Abstract: A multi-connector system electrically couples circuit components, such as printed circuit boards, daughtercards, integrated circuits and the like. The system includes two or more electrical connector sockets, each of which is physically coupled to a first supporting member, e.g., a rigid bar or plate. Two or more electrical connector plugs are also provided, each of which is physically coupled to a second supporting member, again, for example, a rigid bar or plate. The connector plugs and sockets can be, for example, of the VME64 160-pin variety or of any other variety and style known in the art. A jacking element, which is physically coupled with both the first and second supporting members, can be manipulated to bring them together and/or to separate them and, thereby, to couple and/or uncouple the sockets from their respective plugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Mercury Computer Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric D. D'Agostino
  • Patent number: 6217368
    Abstract: The present invention relates to cable-to-card connectors and more particularly to a system for simplifying plugging and unplugging operations and for preventing any risk of bending pins and damaging contacts first, by guiding the cable and receiving connectors and second by multiplying the operator's insertion/extraction force. The system comprises a pair of guiding posts one on each side of the cable connector and a push-pull unique central screw making the link between guiding posts and the cable connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Dominique Baron, Jean Conde, Bruno Centola
  • Patent number: 6203341
    Abstract: A cable connector of the present invention comprises an insulative housing, a number of conductive contacts, a pair of positioning levers and an insulative shell. The insulative housing has a mating face on a front end for mating with a mating connector and receives a mating portion of the conductive contacts therein. A metal shield is fitted to the front end of the insulative housing, thereby enclosing the mating portion of the conductive contacts. The pair of the positioning levers extends through respective holes defined in opposite sides of the insulative housing and each defines a retaining portion which extends beyond the mating face of the insulative housing for securely engaging with a mating connector. The insulative shell encloses the retaining portions of the pair of the positioning levers and the metal shield, thereby guarding electronic components near the cable connector from accidental electrostatic discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Denis Chen
  • Patent number: 6176728
    Abstract: The connecting device includes a securing plate and locking spring attached to the cable connector of the cable-to-card connectors. The connecting device is pressed, when the connectors are mated, by the front portion of the cable connector against the host machine chassis which in turn is pressed flat against the adapter card brackets. In a preferred embodiment the connecting device is attached on the front portion of a standard cable connector with removable fastener, in particular with a locking spring. In another embodiment, the connecting device is an integral part of the cable connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Yves Bonnet, Jacques Cresp, Jean-Pierre Suzzoni, Jean-Marie Limon, Bruno Centola, Dominique Baron
  • Patent number: 6120313
    Abstract: The subject invention discloses a connector body positioning mechanism that pulls a pair of connector bodies together, against a high resistance force, to a fully seated position. A cam crank axially retained to one connector body turns in a plane normal to the direction of relative connector body motion, drawing a pair of helical grooves along an opposed pair of projections in the other connector body. A releasable latch retains the cam crank in a postion that properly registers the grooves and projections. Turning the handle back breaks the connection with the same highly leveraged force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn W Luich, Mark J Vanden Wymelenberg
  • Patent number: 6120332
    Abstract: A connection component for an electrical connector that mates with a complementary connector where the electrical connector includes multiple sub-electrical connectors each with an associated housing that has an outer surface with a side with a cut-out therein, the cutout being disposed transversely to the connecting direction of the electrical connector and complementary connector, the sub-electrical connectors are arranged in a stacked manner with the cutouts of the sub-connectors being aligned and connection component is insertable into the aligned cutouts thereby orientating the multiple sub-electrical connectors and where the connection component is configured to cooperate with the complementary connector to assure proper mating
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: The Whitaker Corporation
    Inventors: Aloysius Antonius Bertens, Johannes Marcelus Broeksteeg, Lambertus Johanna Gerardus Van Brunschot, Johannes Theodorus Maria Roosen
  • Patent number: 6116942
    Abstract: A locking device for an electrical connector comprises an engaging rod defining an outer screw thread thereon for engaging with a bolt of a mating connector defining an inner screw thread therein, and an additional inserting rod inserted into the engaging rod. The engaging rod comprises a through hole and a pair of gradually narrowed slots disposed around an end thereof in communication with the through hole. The inserting rod is inserted into the through hole of the engaging rod to expand the slots whereby the outer screw thread of the engaging rod latchably engages the inner screw thread defined in a screw hole of the bolt thereby securing the electrical connector and the mating connector together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Su-Ping Chen, Thomas R. L. Tsai
  • Patent number: 6083031
    Abstract: A cable end connector includes an insulative outer casing defining an interior space therein for accommodating a metallic inner casing securely fixed in the outer casing. An insulative connector body receiving and retaining a number of contact elements therein is received in the outer casing and exposed through an opening defined in a side wall thereof for engaging with a mating connector. The connector has a positioning pin and a bolt extending beyond the side wall for respectively engaging with a plain hole and a screw hole defined in the mating connector thereby securing the cable end connector to the mating connector. A leading end of a cable extends into the outer casing and is electrically connected to the contact elements. The cable is mechanically fixed to the inner casing by permanently deforming the inner casing thereby effectively resisting an external force transmitted through the cable and protecting interior parts of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Hon Hain Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter Kuo