For Constrained Pivotal Or Plural Movement Coupling Patents (Class 439/376)
  • Patent number: 11260517
    Abstract: A power tool is provided that, in one version, includes a front housing that supports an output drive, and a back cap located opposite the front housing. The back cap receives at least one fastener of the plurality of fasteners. A motor housing supports a motor and is located between the front housing and the back cap. The motor includes a rotor that is configured to rotate about a motor axis to drive rotation of the output drive. The fastener is disposed through the back cap, and secures to the front housing coupling the front housing, the motor housing, and the back cap together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Industrial U.S., Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Christopher Bartoszek, Joshua Odell Johnson, Sean C. Ely, Douglas Fornell Leavitt, Dennis Naksen
  • Patent number: 10734311
    Abstract: Embodiments of packaged semiconductor devices and lead frames for such devices are provided, such as a lead frame including: a row of lead fingers, wherein an outer end of each lead finger is connected to a leaded side of the lead frame; a package body perimeter that indicates placement of a package body of the packaged semiconductor device, wherein an inner end of each lead finger falls within the package body perimeter; a retention tab that protrudes from an interior edge of a non-leaded side of the lead frame, wherein the retention tab falls outside of the package body perimeter; and a non-conductive tie bar structure attached to the retention tab, wherein the non-conductive tie bar structure falls within the package body perimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: NXP USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Mariano Layson Ching, Jr., Burton Jesse Carpenter, Lidong Zhang, Kendall Dewayne Phillips, Quan Chen, Meng Kong Lye
  • Patent number: 10601166
    Abstract: An electrical board for connecting two electrical harnesses to each other includes a module holder and at least one connector module to establish the connection between the two electrical harnesses, said connector module comprising a base engaged with the module holder, a perforated core extending the base and allowing connection of the two harnesses to each other via plugs. The module holder includes a fixed jaw, a movable jaw mounted to pivot on the fixed jaw, and locking means for holding the mobile jaw in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Safran Electrical & Power
    Inventors: Ismaïl Tchaaouaou, Frédéric Colin
  • Patent number: 8938179
    Abstract: A toner cartridge for an imaging forming device having a retainer for holding a circuit board having processing circuitry with a plurality of contacts. A reference datum point in the retainer aligns the circuit board with the retainer while an alignment device aligns the retainer with respect to the supply item that is inserted into a frame within the image forming device having an electrical connector with a plurality of connecting pins. When the retainer and circuit board are mounted on the supply item and the supply item is inserted into the frame, a pair of cam surfaces and a corresponding pair of supports spaced apart and extending from an outer surface of the housing, align the connector with the retainer with the retainer aligning the connecting pins of the connector with corresponding contacts of the circuit board for electrical interconnection therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Amann, James Anthany Carter, II, Katrina Rosit Lactuan, Matthew Jeremy Litman, Matthew Lee Rogers, Keith Seaman
  • Patent number: 8876540
    Abstract: A battery has on opposite sides male and female terminal blocks. The female block includes positive and negative power terminals, a communications line and a link detect line. The female terminals include annular female connectors for receiving a male electrical terminal. The male terminal block has a recess for accommodating the female terminal dock. Within the recess there extend a plurality of male terminal pins, which include a positive voltage terminal, a communications line terminal, a battery status terminal and a negative or nominal ground terminal. The pins are positioned and sized so as to fit into respective female terminals. As each battery is provided with both female and male terminal blocks, any number of batteries can be stacked together. The male block includes a protective cover and latch for protecting the pins and locking the battery to a device or other battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: PAG Ltd.
    Inventor: John Paul Lavender
  • Patent number: 8876545
    Abstract: A transmission port module adapted to an electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes a casing whereon a containing slot is formed. According to an embodiment, the transmission port module includes at least one transmission port and a housing covering the at least one transmission port. The housing is installed inside the containing slot in a detachable manner, such that the at least one transmission port is hidden inside the casing as being not in use by detachment and installation of the housing. According to another embodiment, the transmission port module includes at least one transmission port and a rotational holder. The rotational holder holds the at least one transmission port and drives the at least one transmission port to rotate relative to the casing, such that the at least one transmission port is hidden inside the casing as being not in use by rotation of the rotational holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Tien-Chung Tseng, Ming-Ju Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8721346
    Abstract: A signal transmission module is provided. The signal transmission module includes an electrical connector, a linked unit, a data connector, a sliding block, a link and a lock block. The data connector rotates and expands according to a first shaft and a first elastomer of the linked unit, and electrically connects to the electrical connector. During retraction of the data connector, the data connector pushes the sliding block. Then the sliding block moves against the lock block so that the lock block rotates. The lock block rotates to lock and secure the data connector by the lock piece, while a cam of the link moves to a secure location along an incline plane of a track of the sliding block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Ability Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu-Fang Lin, Hsien-Ming Lee, Hao-Chung Lien
  • Patent number: 8628348
    Abstract: A contact component of an implantable medical device connector module assembly includes a threaded bore in fluid communication with a connector bore thereof, and a flanged bore in fluid communication with the threaded bore. A perimeter surface of the flanged bore creates a shutoff with a pin during injection molding to form an insulative body of the assembly, and a perimeter surface of an insulative bore formed around the pin is preferably flush with that of the flanged bore of the contact component. A centerline axis of the flanged bore is preferably aligned with that of the threaded bore, for example, so that the molded insulative bore has a centerline axis aligned with that of the threaded bore of the contact component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew J. Ries, Jeevan M. Prasannakumar, Richard P. Nelson
  • Patent number: 8602811
    Abstract: A first connector has a first holding member holding first male and female terminals. Each first male terminal has a horizontally extending first male contact. Each first female terminal has a first female contact. A second connector has a second holding member holding second male and female terminals. Each second male terminal has a horizontally extending second male contact receivable in the first female contact. Each second female terminal has a second female contact which receives the first male contact. The first and second connectors are positioned at a predetermined position in a vertical direction whereas the first male contact is apart from the second female contact while the second male contact is apart from the first female contact. A guiding mechanism guides the first connector to a position where the first and second male contacts are respectively connected to the second and first female contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited
    Inventor: Takuya Takahashi
  • Patent number: 8435064
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mounting (6) for a dc-ac converter (3) in a photovoltaic system (1), the mounting being designed to detachably accommodate the converter (3). The converter (3) can be connected to at least one solar module (2) and an alternating current supply (4) via at least one connection cable (5). The invention also relates to a method for fitting a dc-ac converter (3) to a mounting (6) of this type. To allow the simple and rapid fitting of the dc-ac converter (3), a first part (8) of a connector (7) for connecting the connection cable (5) of the dc-ac converter (3) and also a device (9) for guiding the converter are provided on the mounting (6), the guide device (9) being designed to automatically bring the first part (8) of the connector (7) into contact with a second part (10) of the connector (7) that is located on the dc-ac converter (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: FRONIUS International GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Stockinger, Jürgen Graf, Markus Lebelhuber
  • Publication number: 20130045622
    Abstract: A contact region of an electrically conductive member includes a contact area, a shroud and at least one projection. The contact area is provided to electrically engage a mating connector. The shroud is positioned proximate the contact area and is dimensioned to cooperate with a portion of the mating connector to align the mating connector in the contact area. The at least one projection is provided proximate the contact area, such that the at least one projection cooperates with a mating connector to limit the rotation of the mating connector relative to the contact area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: TYCO ELECTRONICS CORPORTION
    Inventors: Edward O'SULLIVAN, Harry George YAWORSKI
  • Publication number: 20120315784
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector arrangement, including a connector having a connector housing and at least one terminal module, adapted to be inserted into the connector housing. The terminal module is mountable on the connector housing with a freedom of movement in at least one axis, such that the terminal module is capable of self-alignment upon coupling of the connector with a corresponding counter-connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Harald Pankau
  • Patent number: 8113862
    Abstract: An accessory printed circuit board (PCB) fixture is used in an electronic device to fix an accessory PCB. One end of the accessory PCB electronically connects to an edge connector of a main PCB located in the electronic device. The other end of the accessory PCB defines at least two holes. The accessory PCB fixture includes at least one positioning foot fixed on the main PCB, at least two latch portions and a connecting portion rigidly connecting the positioning foot with the latch portions. The latch portions match the holes of the accessory PCB to fix the accessory PCB. Each latch portion includes a supporting portion, a positioning portion and a hook. One surface of the accessory PCB is supported on the supporting portions. The positioning portions are received in the holes of the accessory PCB. The hooks are latched on the other surface of the accessory PCB.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignees: Ambit Microsystems (Shanghai) Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dong Wei
  • Patent number: 8098326
    Abstract: A connector on an electronic device includes a pair of locking plates, a guide groove, and a space. Each locking plate has, on its edge, a first concave portion, a first convex portion, a second concave portion, and a second convex portion. An intermediate surface for determining a position of an accessory device below the guide groove is provided below the second concave portions and the second convex portions. A contact mounting surface provided with plural contacts is provided below the first convex portions. Guide surfaces for determining a position of the accessory device in the width direction of the guide groove are provided below the first concave portions and the first convex portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Kouichiro Takashima, Yoichi Miyajima, Yoshitake Takahashi, Nobutatsu Takahashi, Yuichiro Nogo, Kiyoshi Miyamori, Masayoshi Iida, Nobuhito Ebine
  • Patent number: 8075334
    Abstract: An electronic module is designed to be slotted into an aircraft instrument panel. The module has: a rear face and a front face that are substantially flat and parallel. Means are provided for attaching the module to the instrument panel. The attachments are situated on the front face of the module. At least one connector-module is attached on the rear face of the electronic module and can be plugged into a socket mounted on the panel as the electronic module is guided into position on the panel. The direction of plugging in the connector-module situated on the rear face is substantially in the plane of the rear face. The support comprises guidance and rotation means making it possible to guide, plug in and insert the module into the instrument panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Yves Sontag, Eric Rauscent, Ludovic Pennetier
  • Patent number: 8042622
    Abstract: An electric power tool having a housing, a motor, a jack for receiving a connection plug of an electric cable, and a swivel unit mounted on the housing and carrying the jack, wherein the swivel unit includes a first head mounted on the housing for rotation about a first axis, and a second head mounted on the first head for rotation about a second axis. The first and second axes form an angle between them, and provide for freedom of rotation of the jack, thereby providing for positioning of the jack and routing of a connected cable in desired directions relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Atlas Copco Tools AB
    Inventors: Kjell Thomas Martin Eriksson, Gunnar Christer Hansson, Erik Vilhelm Persson
  • Patent number: 8007309
    Abstract: An electronic connector includes a cover, a connector body, and an aligning body. The cover defines an opening therein. The connector body partially extends through the opening, and defines an interspace between the cover and the connector body so the connector body is capable of swaying in the opening. The aligning body includes a top portion secured to the connector body, and two supporting legs arranged at two opposite sides of the top portion to support the connector body. The aligning body is swayable to vary the distance of the two opposite sides of the top portion from the cover along the sway directions that are inclined towards the two opposite sides of the top portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Ming Fan
  • Patent number: 8002585
    Abstract: A detachable lamp socket includes a contact member (1), a housing (2), and a fixing ring (3). A lower end of the contact member (1) is connected to an upper end of the housing (2). The fixing ring (3) is fitted on the junction of the contact member (1) and the housing (2) to fix the contact member (1) and the housing (2). The top of the housing (2) is provided with the engaging groove (22) and the bottom of the contact member (1) is provided with hooks (12). With the hooks (12) and the engaging groove (22), the contact member (1) and the housing (2) are connected together. The notch (221) of the engaging groove (22) is open, such that the hooks (12) of the contact member (1) are levelly pushed in the engaging groove (22). The fixing ring (3) may be threaded onto outer threads (23) of the housing (2) to complete the assembly. This can prevent a lamp base from being loosened when rotating a lamp, so that the contact member (1) and the housing (2) are connected firmly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Mainhouse (Xiamen) Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nan-Qing Zhou
  • Patent number: 7927122
    Abstract: A connector assembly has a first connector and a second connector matable with the first connector. The first connector includes a first contact having a first contact portion and a first housing configured to hold the first contact. The second connector includes a second contact having a second contact portion that is brought into contact with the first contact portion and a second housing configured to hold the second contact. The connector assembly further includes a positioner operable to position the second contact portion in a first direction so that the second contact portion corresponds to the first contact portion when the second connector is moved relative to the first connector along the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Limited
    Inventors: Takahiro Yamaji, Masakazu Kuroiwa, Tomomi Sakata, Akira Kimura
  • Publication number: 20110008991
    Abstract: An electronic connector includes a cover, a connector body, and an aligning body. The cover defines an opening therein. The connector body partially extends through the opening, and defines an interspace between the cover and the connector body so the connector body is capable of swaying in the opening. The aligning body includes a top portion secured to the connector body, and two supporting legs arranged at two opposite sides of the top portion to support the connector body. The aligning body is swayable to vary the distance of the two opposite sides of the top portion from the cover along the sway directions that are inclined towards the two opposite sides of the top portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHIEN-MING FAN
  • Patent number: 7850480
    Abstract: An electrical component (1) includes a bracket (30) and a connector (10) that is mountable to a mount hole (R2) of a casing (R). The bracket (30) prevents loose movements of the connector (10) until immediately before the connector (10) is mounted into the mount hole (R2) while permitting loose movements of the connector (10) in the course of mounting the connector (10) into the mount hole (R2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Takanashi, Takafumi Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 7681482
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a housing having an opening, a connector unit, a moveable door, and a biasing system. The connector unit is located inside the housing. The connector unit is capable of providing an electrical connection to a complementary connector unit. The moveable door is capable of being moved into an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position covers the opening. The biasing system is capable of aligning the connector unit with the complementary connector unit and causing the connector unit to engage the complimentary connector unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Ronald A. Kubinski, Robert J. Atmur, Thorin Arthur Rogers
  • Publication number: 20090239408
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a connection device, in particular a heavy-duty plug-type connection, with a first connector and a second connector, which each have a contact-making element in order to produce an electrical connection in the connected state of the connectors; the connectors bearing against one another at a connection region in the connected state; at least one of the connectors comprising a coolant line with one or more access points for the supply and discharge, respectively, of a coolant; the coolant line being provided at the contact-making element in order to dissipate heat from a contact point between the contact-making elements; all of the access points of the coolant line being arranged outside of the connection region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Robert Sacher, Wolfgang Knapp
  • Publication number: 20090203251
    Abstract: The present invention provides a LIF (Low Insertion Force) connector fixing a vehicle body panel capable of reducing the number of parts and improving workability. The LIF connector fixed to a vehicle body panel includes a frame including a first guide groove, a first connector connected to the frame so as to be rotated and including a second guide groove, a second connector having a first boss and connected to the first connector by rotating the first connector from a position where the first boss is inserted into the first and the second guide groove at the same time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: Toshiharu Takahashi, Kazuto Ohtaka
  • Publication number: 20090042431
    Abstract: A cable trough comprising a rigid trough securing a cable that terminates with a cable connector plug. The cable connector plug has a connector latch operable with a pull tab for selectively latching the cable connector plug to a blind mate connector inside an electronic device. The trough secures the connector plug in axial alignment with the trough and includes a release lever pivotally coupled to the proximal end of the trough. An elongate wire extends within the trough and is coupled between the release lever and the pull tab. Accordingly, the rigid trough may be directed into a guide passage aligned with the blind mate connector for coupling and latching of the connector plug to the blind mate connector. The release lever is pivotally operable to pull the wire and actuate the pull tab to release the connector latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Dean Frederick Herring, Paul Andrew Wormsbecher
  • Publication number: 20080227328
    Abstract: An electrical connector includes an insulating base and at least one row of conducting terminals. Each row of conducting terminals includes a body portion, a connecting arm located at two ends of the body portion, and a connecting portion. The insulating base includes a holding portion. The connecting arm is held on the holding portion. Because the connecting arm of the conducting terminal of the electrical connector is held on the holding portion of the insulating base, the coplanarity of the connecting portion of the conducting terminal can be assumed by keep the roughness of the holding portion of the insulating base. It prevents that the whole conducting arm of the conducting terminal is pasted on the insulating base to decrease the coplanarity of the connecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: LOTES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ted JU
  • Publication number: 20080166909
    Abstract: An electrical connection box includes a body which includes a mounting surface and a mounting member, including a shaft portion, attached to the body. The body includes a bearing portion which receives the shaft portion rotatably. The bearing portion has a receiving portion which receives the shaft portion, a limiting portion provided at a position separate from the mounting surface for a predetermined distance, and an insertion port, having a length of the predetermined distance defined by the mounting surface and the limiting portion, through which the shaft portion is inserted into the receiving portion. The limiting portion limits a movement of the shaft portion in a direction parallel to the mounting surface based on an inclining condition of the mounting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: YAZAKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Katsuhiro KUBOTA, Keisuke OZAWA, Tomohiro SUGIURA, Katsuyoshi KOBAYASHI
  • Patent number: 7347715
    Abstract: A female housing (10) is mounted into a male housing (30) in a direction substantially normal to a connecting direction of the two housings (10, 30), and is inserted from this mount position toward the back side of a receptacle along the connecting direction. A moving plate (40) is assembled inside the receptacle (34), has an opening (61A) that is open toward a side from which the female housing (10) is mounted, and is formed with a guiding wall (61) for positioning the female housing (10) before the connection is started by being brought into contact with the upper surface and the opposite side surfaces of the female housing (10) reaching the mount position through the opening (61A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yutaka Kobayashi, Yuuichi Nankou, Yutaka Noro, Satoru Nishide, Masahiro Noda, Keiichi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7347704
    Abstract: A connector has a housing (10) and a slider (30). The slider (30) has a cam plate (31) that can be inserted into an accommodation space (S) of the housing (10). At least one lock (32, 38) is formed in the cam plate (31). A hole (54) is formed on a rear surface of the housing (10) and communicates with the accommodation space (S). A to-be-locked portion (53) is formed in the accommodation space (S) for engaging the lock (32, 38) to hold the slider (30) at either of a wait position and a fit-in position in the accommodation space (S). The to-be-locked portion (53) can be formed via the hole (54) to enable a simple construction for a molding die, to provide good molding efficiency, and to make cost low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeshi Tsuji
  • Patent number: 7303420
    Abstract: A connecting device for a plug-and-socket connection containing two connectors that includes a first part (1) with a first connector (2) and a second part (3) with a second connector (4). The first part (1) is equipped with an axle pin (5), and the second part (3) is equipped an axle bearing (6) for the axle pin (5), wherein the second part (3) is pivotable from a release position to a closed position about an axis of rotation (7) defined by the axle bearing (6), wherein the distance d1 of the center axis (16) of the first connector (2) from the axis of rotation (8) is equal to the distance d2 of the center axis (17) of the second connector (4) from the axis of rotation (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Sirona Dental Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Jochen Huch, Reinhard Engert
  • Patent number: 7281933
    Abstract: A lever fitting type connector includes a male connector having a male hood, a female connector having a connector main body fitted into the male hood and having a female hood which covers the male hood, and a lever which is rotatably provided inside of the female hood, and which fits or separates the male connector into or from the female connector. The lever includes a lateral plate which is rotatably engaged with a boss projecting from an inner surface of the female hood. The lateral plate is provided with a drive part far from the fulcrum of the lever in a thickness range of the lateral plate. An outer surface of the male hood is provided with an engagement projection. When the connectors are fitted to each other, these engagement projections engage the drive part of the lever to transmit a fitting force and a separating force generated by turn of the lever to the male connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshinori Shigeta, Hiroaki Yamagishi
  • Patent number: 7168991
    Abstract: A detachable connector is provided in which a male connector unit mounted to a movable panel is attachable to and detachable from a female connector unit mounted to a main body. In a pair of first and second female terminals, the first female terminal which has a longer distance to an axis of rotation of the movable panel includes a sloped portion for being elastically in contact with a leading-end corner of a convex contact of the male connector unit from obliquely above, and the second female terminal includes a contact portion for being elastically in contact with the side surface of the convex contact from below. When the male connector unit is attached to the female connector unit, the sloped portion is in contact with the convex contact at a position that is more distant from the movable panel than the contact portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Alpine Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Noriyuki Sano
  • Patent number: 7139168
    Abstract: One exemplary docking station has a surface for receiving a portable computer, with a wall and a latch projecting from the receiving surface. The latch is movable towards and away from the wall, is resiliently biased towards the wall, and has an overhang that can engage a striker plate of a portable computer when the latch is moved towards the wall, so that the overhang restrains the striker plate against movement away from the receiving surface. The overhang can release the striker plate when the latch is moved away from the wall. A release actuator operable by a user engages the latch so that operation of the release actuator causes the latch to move away from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Ronald E. DeLuga, Earl Moore, Paul Walker
  • Patent number: 7101198
    Abstract: A plug-in connection between a first connector at the edge of a printed circuit board and a second connector on a printed circuit board mount takes the form of a restrictedly guided swivel connection device. The printed circuit board with the first connector is swivelled about a swivel axis, which is held at the top, in the direction of the connector and at the bottom by an abutment. Escape by the connectors is prevented by engagement of the two outer walls of the connectors at a slide contact zone. Swivelling is only possible when the swivel axis has reached its desired position. Through swivelling of the arrangement, the blade contacts of the first connector make their way into the female contact elements of the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics AMP GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Listing, Gerzson Toth, Oliver Fuck, Kurt Schaaf
  • Patent number: 7029296
    Abstract: A self guiding cover assembly for a vacuum electron device (VED) enclosure has a cover, a pair of guide plates, and a pair of guide elements. The cover has a top, a sidewall, an inside and an outside, and at least one electrical connector disposed on the inside of the cover for mating with an electrical connector on a VED. The pair of guide plates is disposed on opposite sides of the outside of the sidewall of the cover. The guide plates each have a track. The guide elements are mounted on the enclosure on opposite sides of the cover. The pair of guide elements each mates with the track to guide the cover as it is lifted from the enclosure. The cover further comprises a breach lock mechanism for seating the VED into the VED enclosure having the cover and a base. The breach lock mechanism has guide elements mounted on the cover. A sleeve is mounted on the base and removably receives the cover with the VED. The sleeve rotates about the cover. The sleeve has tracks for mating with the guide elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Communication and Power Industires
    Inventors: Wilson Wai Toy, Christopher Paul Yates, Paul Allen Krzeminski, Robert N. Tornoe, Edmund Thomas Davies
  • Patent number: 6926548
    Abstract: A circuit card is disclosed. In one embodiment, the circuit card comprises a first connector to connect the circuit card to a first mating connector, a second connector movable between first and second positions, to connect the circuit card to a second mating connector, and a mechanism to move the second connector between the first and second positions along a defined path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Kelly J. Reasoner, Marie Schaub-Jones, legal representative, Ronald L. Ehrlich, David P. Jones, deceased
  • Patent number: 6896539
    Abstract: A pivot component of an apparatus in one example is coupled with a first circuit board that comprises a first connection component. The pivot component controls a relative alignment of the first connection component with a second connection component of a second circuit board for an engagement of the first connection component with the second connection component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Robert William Dobbs, Andrew Harvey Barr, Stephan Karl Barsun
  • Patent number: 6878005
    Abstract: A securing mechanism includes a connector latch and a module latch such that engagement of the connector latch with a connector causes the module latch to engage a housing support. The securing mechanism prevents removal of a module from a housing support when a connector, such as on a power cable, is engaged by the connector latch. The connector latch has a position adjustment mechanism, engageable by an external tool, that controls the position of the connector latch. A tool is used to position the connector latch and allow the insertion or removal of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Helix Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John J. Varone, Herbert McEvoy
  • Patent number: 6856496
    Abstract: A solar tile assembly (1A) comprises a removable rectangular outer panel (1) that comprises ten photovoltaic cells (3) disposed on the outermost surface thereof, and a substantially rectangular inner support structure (2). Thc photovoltaic cells (3) cover the lower portion of the outer panel (1). Any suitable photovoltaic means may be used for the solar tile assembly. The outer panel (1) is secured to the inner support structure (2) using two fasteners (5a, 5b) disposed at the front end of the solar tile assembly (1A). The fasteners (5a, 5b) may typically be quarter or half turn captive fasteners. These types of fasteners have the added advantage of being retained by the outer panel (1) during assembly/disassembly processes. The inner support structure (2) comprises a framework at one end of which there is formed a lower stepped interlockable section (4). In use the interlockable section (4) is disposed under a portion of an adjacent tile assembly, as is well known in the art of roof tile design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Powertile Ltd
    Inventors: Peter E. R. Mucci, Abubakr S. Bahaj, Patrick A. B. James, James R. Ballard
  • Publication number: 20040266249
    Abstract: A pivot component of an apparatus in one example is coupled with a first circuit board that comprises a first connection component. The pivot component controls a relative alignment of the first connection component with a second connection component of a second circuit board for an engagement of the first connection component with the second connection component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Robert William Dobbs, Andrew Harvey Barr, Stephan Karl Barsun
  • Patent number: 6817880
    Abstract: A method is disclosed of connecting first and second electrical connectors each having a plurality of aligned straight pins complementary to corresponding pins of the other connector, the pins of each pair of complementary pins being designed to engage coaxially one within the other. Free ends of the pins of the first and second connectors are placed in two intersecting planes so that the pins of the two connectors have axes that lie in a common plane perpendicular to the intersection of the planes, the axes of the pins of the pairs of complementary pins being equidistant from the intersection. One connector is then pivoted relative to the other about the intersection to align the pins of each pair of complementary pins on a common axis. The complementary pins are then engaged one within the other by movement of one connector toward the other in translation in a direction parallel to the aligned axes of the pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Dassault Aviation
    Inventor: Aldo Pezzetta
  • Patent number: 6761488
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holding device for holding at least one optical plug that can be coupled with a coupling partner in an optical coupling system. According to the invention, the holding device comprises an inner holding part (11) into which the plug (3) can be locked and an outer holding part (12) in which the inner holding part (11) is arranged so as to be rotatable and laterally displaceable. The holding device enables a coupling of an optical plug with a coupling partner even for the case in which the coupling partner is situated with an imprecise position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter Weigel
  • Patent number: 6652309
    Abstract: The object of the present invention to provide a connector, or a male-female engagement type connector set to be more precise, wherein the contact section of the female connector is invisible from the outside through its insertion opening. According to the invention, the above object is achieved by providing a connector with a housing member (10) made of an insulating material and having an engagement space for receiving a matching connector (3) inserted through an insertion opening (11) formed at the front end. A contact member (1) is fitted to the housing member (10) and has a contact section (23a) arranged in the engagement space (12). The engagement space (12) is formed internally relative to the insertion opening (11) so as to spread toward the outer periphery of the housing section. The contact section (23a) is arranged in the engagement space (12) at a position shifted toward the outer periphery so as to be invisible from the front side of the insertion opening (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Leisure Electronics Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Susumu Sukagawa
  • Publication number: 20030147209
    Abstract: A docking station for a portable computer contains a platform and a movable guide bar connected to the docking station and extending over the platform. The guide bar is capable of guiding the portable computer into proper alignment with the docking station when the portable computer is placed on the guide bar and pressed downwardly into the platform. The guide bar may contain a thermally conductive guide protrusion capable of mating with a heat sink on the portable computer. Heat is transferred from the heat sink on the portable computer to the guide protrusion on the guide bar. The guide bar itself may also be thermally conductive, providing a further avenue for heat to be transferred from the portable computer to the docking station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Glen A. Oross, Robert P. Bliven, Michael D. Derocher, Masahiko Muranami
  • Patent number: 6587348
    Abstract: A container case for a card type memory comprises a storage space having an inserting entrance for inserting the card type memory, a resilient engaging pawl provided inside of the storage space for engaging with the card type memory, a leaf spring for ejecting the card type memory out of the storage space by resilient power, and a rotation supporting projection provided inside of the storage space for rotating the card type memory at said rotation supporting projection in the storage space to be easily ejected from the storage space with a comfortable mechanical feeling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Shinichi Kondo
  • Patent number: 6560101
    Abstract: A docking station for a portable computer contains a platform and a movable guide bar connected to the docking station and extending over the platform. The guide bar is capable of guiding the portable computer into proper alignment with the docking station when the portable computer is placed on the guide bar and pressed downwardly into the platform. The guide bar may contain a thermally conductive guide protrusion capable of mating with a heat sink on the portable computer. Heat is transferred from the heat sink on the portable computer to the guide protrusion on the guide bar. The guide bar itself may also be thermally conductive, providing a further avenue for heat to be transferred from the portable computer to the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventors: Glen A Oross, Robert P Bliven, Michael D Derocher, Masahiko Muranami
  • Patent number: 6551121
    Abstract: A card edge connector (1) comprises an insulative housing (10) having opposite top and bottom walls (12, 14) defining a central slot (142) therebetween for receiving the electronic card, a row of upper contacts (15) and a row of lower contacts (16) retained in the top and bottom walls, respectively. A supporting embossment (1461) is formed in each of the lower passageways. Each of the upper and lower contacts forms a retaining portion (150, 160), a mating beam (152, 162) and a soldering portion (154, 164) extending from opposite ends of the retaining portion, respectively. The mating beam of the lower contact is shorter than the mating beam of the upper contact and is apart from and above the supporting means with a distance which is within the spring limitation amount of the mating beam of a corresponding lower contact retained in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun Sheng Li, Guang Xing Shi, Heseng Fang, Weiya Cheng
  • Patent number: 6503094
    Abstract: According to a connector supporting structure of the invention, a connector has a concave portion formed from an outer side face of a connector housing up to a position leading to a terminal accommodating chamber is supported with a bracket having a convex portion which engages with the concave portion so as to position the connector and unit the connector with the bracket. Further, according to a connector coupling structure of the invention, a holder, which has an opening portion corresponding to a bracket mounting hole formed in a panel, is installed to a face on an opposite side to a face on which the bracket is to be mounted, of the panel. And further a mating connector is installed within the holder such that it is freely movable around a supporting shaft and when the bracket united with the connector is installed to the panel, the connector is advanced into the holder through the opening portion and coupled with the mating connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiaki Okabe, Kenji Oishi
  • Patent number: 6447321
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for an integrated circuit package is provided. The integrated circuit package is designed for coupling an integrated circuit to a printed circuit board. The integrated circuit package includes a base having a bottom and a side. A flex circuit having traces therein is coupled to the base. The traces in the flex circuit are designed to couple to the leads of the integrated circuit. The traces further are designed to couple to traces on the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Rambus, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald V. Perino, John B. Dillon
  • Patent number: 6422888
    Abstract: A latching insulated electrical connector apparatus has a first electrically insulating housing having a plurality of abutting electrical insulating members mounted therein and having an electrical contact mounted between each pair of adjacent insulating members. The first housing has a hinge cutout therein. A second electrically insulating housing has an open end and a plurality of protruding electrical contacts mounted therein, each of which aligns with one of the electrical contacts mounted between each pair of insulating members. The second housing has a hinge pin attached thereto across said open end thereof and a pair of locking lugs thereon. The hinge pin is positioned to align with the first housing hinge cutout and one of the locking lugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Robert H. Goble