Abstract: The invention provides means to retain and secure the relative positions of an electrical connector and a socket. The relative positions of the connector and socket are releasably retained by a securement which is comprised of a portion of flexible material resiliently biased to a particular configuration. The securement comprises, two leg sections separated by an arcuate portion, each leg section equipped with an opening through which either or both of the connector and the socket will fit. To associate the connector and socket the leg sections are compressed toward each other, the connector inserted through the two openings, its pins inserted into the socket, and the compression released, the bias thereby securing the relationship. To disassociate the connector and socket, compression force is reapplied, and the connector removed. The connector and socket positions may also be reversed in the aforementioned process.

Abstract: A mechanism for locking an access door of an appliance includes a spring biased catch member preferably attached to the door and a latching housing insert fixed to a cabinet shell of the appliance. Upon closing the door, the catch member is caused to ride up a ramped retaining element mounted in a latching cavity, while simultaneously pivoting a first locking element between release and set positions. When the door is fully closed, the catch member drops behind the retaining element to releasably hold the door closed. When it is desired to maintain the door in a securely locked position, a linear actuator is activated to shift a second locking element into engagement with the first locking element. Preferably, the first and second locking elements are engaged through a ratchet connection which enables continued rotation of the first locking element to only further lock the catch member in the latching cavity.