Abstract: An adaptable multiple purpose connector system for simultaneous pneumatic and electric connections includes a pin and socket. Each connector has an electrical contact a cylindrical hollow core extending through the connector from one end to other. The pin and socket are shaped to be complementary to each other such that the pin can be at least partially inserted into the socket such that the cylindrical hollow cores are aligned and the electrical contact are mated. An internal seal forms an air-tight connection is formed between the pin and socket connector. An external seal positioned on the outward ends of the pin and socket connectors creates a sealed pneumatic connection with pneumatic tubes when the connectors are mated. Additional connections may include solid transport such as feed wire in an example welding configuration.

Abstract: A latching mechanism for a mid-power electrical connector is compact, strong, easy to disengage, durable, and low in manufacturing cost. The basic system includes a plug housing and a receptacle housing, each molded from plastic as a single piece, and at least one simple, mainly flat, metal latching tab inserted into a side of the plug housing. During connection of the housings, the latching tabs flex inward as they enter channels in the receptacle housing, and then spring outward to engage with receptacle latching features. In embodiments, wedge-shaped inward plastic protrusions in the channels engage with holes in the latching tabs. Unlatching requires only pressing the latching tabs gently inward. In embodiments, plastic pressing tabs can be pressed inward with fingers to flex and release the latching tabs. In other embodiments, the latching tabs are inaccessible to fingers, and a tool is required to release the latching tabs.

Abstract: A latching mechanism for a mid-power electrical connector is compact, strong, easy to disengage, durable, and low in manufacturing cost. The basic system includes a plug housing and a receptacle housing, each molded from plastic as a single piece, and at least one simple, mainly flat, metal latching tab inserted into a side of the plug housing. During connection of the housings, the latching tabs flex inward as they enter channels in the receptacle housing, and then spring outward to engage with receptacle latching features. In embodiments, wedge-shaped inward plastic protrusions in the channels engage with holes in the latching tabs. Unlatching requires only pressing the latching tabs gently inward. In embodiments, plastic pressing tabs can be pressed inward with fingers to flex and release the latching tabs. In other embodiments, the latching tabs are inaccessible to fingers, and a tool is required to release the latching tabs.

Abstract: An electrical connector housing system includes a plug housing, a receptacle housing, and a latching mechanism. The latching mechanism pivots on pivot posts on one housing and hooks to latching posts on the other housing, thereby securing the mated housings together. Catches on the latch mechanism engage with tabs near the latching posts when the latching mechanism is latched. The catches must be released using a screwdriver or similar tool before opening the latching mechanism and separating the mated housings. A protective barrier can be included to block direct access to the engaged catches and tabs. The housings include overlapping shells which exclude water and dirt, and the latching mechanism at least partially covers and further protects the shells when closed. In embodiments, a retaining mechanism automatically holds the latch open against gravity, facilitating connection and release of the housings with one hand and/or while wearing gloves.

Abstract: An electrical connector housing system provides a water-tight o-ring seal between a receptacle housing and a plug housing without compressing the o-ring in the mating direction. The housing system includes at least two latch sliders that can be engaged to trap latch tabs within latch slots. The latch sliders are substantially unaffected by the o-ring compression, and are compatible with housing systems of almost any size and/or shape. Embodiments include a connector region surrounded by a curved wall having an o-ring groove in its outer surface, and the plug housing includes a shell which overlaps the curved wall and compresses the o-ring perpendicular to the mating direction. The housings can include integral electrical contacts and/or can accept one or more insertable contacts. The latch sliders. The latch mechanism can include a detent mechanism, and can require a tool for disengagement.

Abstract: An electrical connector housing system includes a plug housing, a receptacle housing, and a latching mechanism. The latching mechanism pivots on pivot posts on one housing and hooks to latching posts on the other housing, thereby securing the mated housings together. Catches on the latch mechanism engage with tabs near the latching posts when the latching mechanism is latched. The catches must be released using a screwdriver or similar tool before opening the latching mechanism and separating the mated housings. A protective barrier can be included to block direct access to the engaged catches and tabs. The housings include overlapping shells which exclude water and dirt, and the latching mechanism at least partially covers and further protects the shells when closed. In embodiments, a retaining mechanism automatically holds the latch open against gravity, facilitating connection and release of the housings with one hand and/or while wearing gloves.

Abstract: An electrical connector housing system provides a water-tight o-ring seal between a receptacle housing and a plug housing without compressing the o-ring in the mating direction. The housing system includes at least two latch sliders that can be engaged to trap latch tabs within latch slots. The latch sliders are substantially unaffected by the o-ring compression, and are compatible with housing systems of almost any size and/or shape. Embodiments include a connector region surrounded by a curved wall having an o-ring groove in its outer surface, and the plug housing includes a shell which overlaps the curved wall and compresses the o-ring perpendicular to the mating direction. The housings can include integral electrical contacts and/or can accept one or more insertable contacts. The latch sliders. The latch mechanism can include a detent mechanism, and can require a tool for disengagement.