Abstract: Methods and systems are described for preventing disconnection of a module from a module connector prior to initiating a shutdown routine and for preventing operation of the module unless a retention device is engaged. The system includes a switch having a first state for allowing operation of a module and a second state for initiating shutdown and/or preventing operation of the module. At least one retention device prevents disconnection of the module from the module connector. A covering member is movable between first and second positions, but is prevented from moving to the first position when the retention device in not engaged. In the first position, the covering member prevents access to the retention device and the switch is in the first state and in the second position the covering member allows access to the retention device and transitions the switch to the second state.

Abstract: A rotary damper uses a motor to selectively dynamically brake the rotational movement between a housing and a cover of a wireless communications device. A clutch that is moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position connects the motor to the cover so that the relative rotational movement between the housing and the cover in at least one rotational direction is resisted by the motor when the clutch is in an engaged position. The clutch preferably includes a coupler axially moveable between a deployed position directly engaging the flip cover and a retracted position disengaged from the cover, and an actuator moveable between a first position and a second position so as to cause the coupler to assume the deployed position and the retracted position, respectively. The actuator preferably includes a spring to bias the coupler towards the deployed position. A shaft preferably extends through the motor and connects the actuator to the coupler.

Abstract: An improved stand-off device is disclosed which is used to control the spacing between adjacent planar elements in electronic instrumentation. The stand-off device includes a resilient, hollow shell member and a rigid, cylindrical inner element. The shell member has at least one slot extending from one end, and has a top interior cylindrical surface, a bottom interior cylindrical surface, and a threaded intermediate interior surface. The inner element has a conical expander portion and a drive portion with a threaded exterior surface which is complementary to the threaded interior intermediate surface of the shell member. The slotted end of the shell member is adapted for insertion into an aperture in a planar member from one side of that member. The inner element is adapted for insertion into the shell member from the same side of that member, whereupon the conical portion forces the slotted end of the shell member to expand and engage the perimeter of the aperture in the planar member.