Guiding Means Patents (Class 361/756)
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Patent number: 6171120Abstract: A card cage for connecting circuit board cards to a computer is disclosed. The card cage includes connector receptacles for receiving circuit board cards such as PCI cards. The card cage also includes a connection mechanism for electrically coupling the connector receptacles to the computer. In one embodiment, the connection mechanism includes a compression connector and a locking mechanism for electrically and mechanically coupling the card cage to the computer. Thus circuit board cards may be easily coupled to a computer by inserting the circuit board cards into the card cage and attaching the card cage to the computer.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1998Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: Silicon Graphics, Inc.Inventors: Bryan D. Bolich, Christopher S. Wheaton, Mark J. Glusker
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Patent number: 6172880Abstract: A faceplate assembly, for use with an electronic circuit card, comprising a faceplate and a movable plate, each including conductive portions or being made of a conductive material, and in electrical contact with each other. The faceplate is adapted to mount to an electronic circuit card, and has first and second opposite edges. The movable plate has a free edge and is movably coupled to the faceplate to move, by pivoting, sliding or the like, with respect to the faceplate between a retracted position and an extended position. Movement of the movable plate can be effected manually, or automatically by movement of the latches on the electronic circuit card assembly which latch the electronic circuit card assembly into an electronic circuit card housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1998Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventors: Eric M. Petitpierre, James H. Durham
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Patent number: 6169662Abstract: The card removal method and system easily removes a PCA card from a powered on computer system while minimizing damage to the computer system and to the individual removing the PCA. The printed circuit assembly card removal system is comprised of: an ejection card including at least a first ejector extending from the surface of the ejection card, the ejector having a first surface for pressing against the edge of the PCA card to be removed, and an ejection card holder for mechanically supporting the ejection card. To remove the PCA, the ejection card is pulled outward causing the ejector to apply a force to the edge of the PCA card to be removed, forcing the card edge fingers of the PCA card out of the PCA connector.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1997Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: Thomas J. Clark, Alisa C. Sandoval
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Patent number: 6166916Abstract: An adjustable circuit board support frame utilizes an adjustable frame assembly for receiving various size circuit boards having the desired interface connectors and logic circuits thereon so as to allow for necessary repair, expansion, or upgrade of the computer system. The present invention provides for the removability and replacement of any size circuit board within the computer housing at any time during manufacturing or in the field. A base computer system may be easily upgraded when more features are desired by interchanging the circuit board within the system and adjusting the frame assembly to the desired position.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1997Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Unitrend, Inc.Inventor: Conrad A. H. Jelinger
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Patent number: 6166920Abstract: A retention member for securing a dual processor card retention module to a circuit board is provided. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the retention member includes a base portion. A first securement portion is disposed at a first end of the base portion and defines a first bore that extends therethrough. A second securement portion is disposed at a second end of the base portion and defines a second bore that extends therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Michael R. Schweers, James D. Williams
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Patent number: 6166917Abstract: A technique for installing circuit cards on a motherboard in an electronic device. A motherboard, having a plurality of keyhole apertures and locking apertures, mounts in the electronic device. Cardguide pairs mount on the motherboard to form expansion ports for receiving circuit cards. Each cardguide pair has two parallel card guides. Each card guide has an elongated body with a bottom member and a longitudinal groove. Entrance ports and ramps located at either end of the body communicate with the groove. Mushroom mounting lugs and resilient locking hooks mount on the bottom member. A cardguide installer places each card guide on the motherboard while passing each mushroom lug into a wide segment of a keyhole aperture. The installer then slides the card guides parallel to the plane of the motherboard to move the mushroom lugs into a narrow segment of the keyhole apertures, while the hooks couple to the locking apertures.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: 3Com CorporationInventor: Scott Anderson
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Patent number: 6160717Abstract: An ejector for a printed circuit board overcomeably retains the ejector, e.g. in open and/or closed positions. Preferably a spring for providing a retaining force is integrally formed as part of the ejector body. When the ejector body is formed by injection molding, an injection gate is located to provide laminar flow of injection material through the spring area.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Cisco Technology Inc.Inventors: Carl Desousa, Robert Goyette
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Patent number: 6156587Abstract: First, a CCD package is attached to a plane of a flexible substrate. A reference plane, which is parallel to an image forming plane of a solid state imaging device chip, is formed at the top of the CCD package. The reference plane is brought into contact with a reference plane of an optical unit, and a leaf spring presses the CCD package so that the CCD package can be fixed to the optical unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1999Date of Patent: December 5, 2000Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasunobu Kayanuma, Masaaki Orimoto, Takeshi Misawa
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Patent number: 6151213Abstract: A platform for holding a plurality of modules or printed circuit boards wherein the platform or chassis contains shutters placed over airflow openings in the platform. The shutters are normally closed and are opened by the act of inserting a module into the platform. The shutters are in the closed position in all slots not occupied by a module and are in the open state in all slots populated by a module. The shutters open as the module is inserted and close when the module is removed. The closed shutters prevent airflow from passing through the unpopulated slots and empty space within the platform, thus forcing the airflow to pass through the space in which the modules are present. The platform also comprises a means of controlling the number of fans that are operational in accordance with the number of modules installed in the platform. The fans closest to the modules inserted into the platform are operational while fans close to unpopulated slots are turned off.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1999Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Assignee: 3Com CorporationInventors: Dan Ater, Eli Avitan
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Patent number: 6147878Abstract: A locking clip is disclosed for use with modular circuit packs that mount in mounting racks, and the insertion and extraction of circuit packs from a mounting rack is facilitated using a lever that is attached to the face plate of each circuit pack. When the novel locking clip is installed in a hole through the lever it is difficult to be seen and can only be removed with tweezers or similar small grasping tool. When in place the locking clip blocks the normal operation of the lever and the circuit pack cannot be removed from the mounting rack. Removal of the locking clip permits the lever to be operated normally to remove a circuit pack from the mounting rack.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventor: Donald E. Heselton
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Patent number: 6147873Abstract: A CPU module mounting rack includes bottom rail mounted on a mother board at the top to hold a CPU connector on the mother board, two holder frames mounted on the mother board at the top and holding the bottom rail therebetween, two upright rails respectively pivoted to the holder frames and adapted to hold a CPU module in a vertical position in connection with the CPU connector, two locating frames respectively mounted on the mother board at the bottom, each locating frame having two upright locating bolts respectively inserted through respective through holes on the mother board and respective through holes on the holder frames, and two pairs of locking plates respectively inserted into respective sliding tracks on the holder frames and moved between the locking position where the locating bolts of the locating frames are secured to the respective through holes on the holder frames, and the unlocking position where the locating bolts of the locating frames are unlocked and can be removed from the vertical tType: GrantFiled: January 22, 1998Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Inventor: Chin-Chung Huang
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Patent number: 6128187Abstract: The present invention provides an improved cardcage design. The improvements result from the formation of an integral cardcage side using a construction method involving precision punched sheet aluminum that is precision formed into final configuration. The integral cardcage side design provides ease of assembly for the cardcage while enhancing structural integrity, improves the alignment of circuit cards within the cardcage to the backplane, increases the airflow channels between the card guides, and adapts to incorporate additional features for airflow control. The manufacturability of the cardcage is greatly simplified by reducing the number of parts requiring assembly and by the use of simple and inexpensive tools and assembly techniques.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Robert H. Mimlitch, III, Robert A. Bruce
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Patent number: 6128196Abstract: A chassis system for housing a plurality of circuit boards, such as PCI standard bus boards, provides a rack-mountable chassis having an open front side and a motherboard with a plurality of board connectors arranged side-by-side with respect to the front end. The boards are mounted in individual frameworks that facilitate ready installation and removal from the chassis. In particular, the chassis includes a plurality of receiving blocks at the bottom rear of the chassis, aligned with each of the motherboard connectors. The receiving blocks receive pivots mounted on the back of each framework. The framework is inserted into, and removed from the front opening of the chassis in an upwardly pivoted position that clears the motherboard connectors and other obstructions in the chassis. The framework is pivoted into and out of engagement with the motherboard when the pivot is located in the receiving blocks. The chassis can include top-mounted tracks. The tracks receive rollers on the framework.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Stratus Computer, Inc.Inventors: Willard O. Hoyle, Jr., Robert Craig Abraham, Keith A. St. Pierre, Vincent T. Curran
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Patent number: 6128202Abstract: To prevent damage to the electrical connections between PLC modules and a backplane during seismic and other vibrational disturbances, a bracket is used having two parallel side members attached to the backplane and a lower support bar connected between the side members to support the PLC modules in the vertical direction. An upper support bar may also be provided between the side plates to hold the PLC modules in the bracket and further prevent vertical movement. The upper and lower support bars may also provide vertical members or a rest in contact with the PLC modules and having a high coefficient of friction to prevent lateral movement of the PLC modules with respect to the backplane.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: CE Nuclear Power LLCInventors: Raymond R. Senechal, Gary D. Altenhein, Donald D. Zaccara
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Patent number: 6123565Abstract: A motor-vehicle control unit having an electrical circuit on a support, which may be a printed circuit board or metal plate with stamped conductors. The motor-vehicle control unit includes a plug-in body encasing components of the electrical circuit and is formed with at least two side surfaces. The plug-in body is received in a receptacle of a motor vehicle. The support protrudes beyond the at least two side faces of the plug-in body and engages groove shaped recesses in the receptacle for guidance of the unit into the receptacle. The plug-in body may be formed of curable foam and the flanges may be formed with recesses for engaging spring tabs.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Norbert Bierek, Christian Plankl, Josef Dirmeyer
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Patent number: 6122176Abstract: A mounting system for facilitating removal and replacement of circuit cards in a card cage includes a carrier having a generally planar shape and having a plurality of location holes therethrough. A first circuit card edge support is disposed at the bottom edge of the carrier. A first anchor assembly includes a first circuit card locator and a fastener system. The first circuit card locator is removably mounted to the carrier by the fastener system, a portion of which passes through one of the location holes in the carrier. The first circuit card locator is equipped with a support ledge and a hold-down tab for engaging opposite sides of a circuit card while the first circuit card edge support engages an edge of the circuit card. A second anchor assembly includes a post oriented generally perpendicular to the plane of the carrier and passes at least partially through a tooling hole in the circuit card. A second circuit card edge support may also be disposed at the bottom edge of the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventor: Bradley E. Clements
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Patent number: 6115258Abstract: A chassis system for housing a plurality of circuit boards, such as PCI standard bus boards, provides a rack-mountable chassis having an open front side and a motherboard with a plurality of board connectors arranged side-by-side with respect to the front end. The boards are mounted in individual frameworks that facilitate ready installation and removal from the chassis. In particular, the chassis includes a plurality of tracks on its top, aligned with each of the motherboard connectors. The tracks receive a track-engaging portion of each framework. A board-carrying portion of the framework is connected to the track-engaging portion by a lifter mechanism, such as a set of sloped slots and interengaging rollers. The framework can be inserted and removed from the chassis with the board connector raised above the motherboard connector.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1998Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Willard O. Hoyle, Jr., Robert Craig Abraham, Keith A. St. Pierre, Vincent T. Curran
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Patent number: 6115247Abstract: A docking station for a first portable computer and also for a second portable computer, where second portable computer is wider than the first portable computer. The docking station has a base plate and a width variation guide pair, which is compressible to accommodate the width of the second portable computer. The guide pair is not compressible to accommodate the width of the first portable computer.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1998Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventor: Jacques H. Helot
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Patent number: 6104621Abstract: A wireless communications device, such as a cellular telephone, is provided with a torsional hinging mechanism for rotatably coupling a flip cover to the device's main body. The torsional hinging mechanism both minimizes lateral loading and causes the flip cover to automatically assume the open position when released. One, and preferably two, torsional axles interconnect the main body to the flip cover. One end of the torsional axle is engaged by the main body so as to prevent relative rotation therebetween, for example by fitting the end through a retaining slit in the main body. The opposite end of the torsional axle is engaged by the flip cover so as to prevent relative rotation therebetween, for example by fitting a keyed end into a keyed hole. When the flip cover is in the closed position, the torsional axle is rotationally loaded so as to urge the flip cover towards the open position.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: Ericsson, Inc.Inventors: Mark W. Weadon, William H. Jennings
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Patent number: 6094358Abstract: A method and implementing system are described in which planar board or motherboard stiffness is provided through a support structure mounted to the planar. The support structure includes support bars connected together to form a stiffening structure for the motherboard. The support bars are mounted within planes which are substantially perpendicular to the plane of the motherboard and in proximity to electrical connectors on the motherboard which are arranged to have circuit boards connected thereto. A board mounting apparatus is connected to the support structure to enable and guide the insertion and extraction of circuit boards to the motherboard with only enclosure side panel access. In one example, the circuit boards include guide pins which are inserted into slots of a mounting bracket, and the mounting bracket is selectively moved to exert an insertion or extraction force on a pin connector attached to the circuit board relative to a corresponding connector on a motherboard.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1998Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Steven Michael Christensen, Michael Paul Pierce, Ciro Neal Ramirez
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Patent number: 6088232Abstract: A device for quickly guiding and positioning a main PC board in which the main PC board may be quickly and firmly installed (or removed from) on a computer housing, including one or more rotatable arrow-shaped push retaining blocks screwably secured on an end edge near an opening of the computer housing, and a corresponding number of slide rails provided at an underside of the main PC board such that the main PC board may slide along the slide rails into rail slots pre-formed in the computer housing and further into a predetermined position. Prior to positioning, a projecting block at one side of a front end of the slide rail is fitted into a notch at an inner side of the push retaining block, and the push retaining block is turned to allow the main PC board to be correctly pushed into the computer housing with contact ends at one side thereof engaging with a connector of an interface card.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1998Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Inventor: Hsin Chien Ho
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Patent number: 6078504Abstract: A universal adapter bracket for installing standard form factor adapter cards such as PCI cards into larger expansion slots of a communications device, such as a router or switch. The adapter bracket has a front face with angled flanges forming an aperture for accepting standard PC brackets, an upper flange with conductive spring clips or foam gasket material, a lower flange for securing a carrier card to the adapter bracket, and fasteners on the front face of the adapter bracket for securing and grounding the adapter bracket to the communications device.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1997Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Assignee: Cisco Systems, Inc.Inventor: Anthony Wayne Miles
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Patent number: 6075706Abstract: A PC card (10) of standard width and thickness (e.g. 54 mm and 5 mm) is constructed to receive a chip card (20) of smaller width and thickness (e.g. 18 mm and 0.8 mm) so the PC card can be used to connect contact pads (60) of the chip card to an electronic device such as a laptop computer into which the PC card is inserted. A frame (22) is mounted in a fixed position on a circuit board of the PC card, the frame having a recess (82) substantially the same width as that of the chip card for closely receiving the chip card to locate it so pads on the chip card engage chip contacts (76) that are also mounted on the circuit board. A planar top portion (86) of a sheet metal cover part has an aperture (24) that communicates with the recess in the frame to permit the insertion of the chip card through the aperture and into the recess of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1999Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Iian Thomas Learmonth, Jan Zeyfang, Martin Gollhofer, Tobias Schimmele-Brell, Andreas Schremmer
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Patent number: 6075709Abstract: A memory adapter having a first cover (50), a circuit board (60), a second cover (70) detachably connected the circuit board (60) to the first cover (50) and a third cover (80) detachably connected with the first cover (50) and abutted the second cover (70) toward the first cover (50) is used by users to adapt to different cassette memory of different sizes. With the adapter, users are able to use cassette memory of different dimensions in different electrical appliance readily.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1998Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Inventor: Li-Ho Yang
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Patent number: 6064574Abstract: A foldable retention mechanism includes a pair of bases, two retaining arm members and two locking members. The retaining arm members are attached to the corresponding base. Each retaining arm member defines a guiding slot. A locking member is positioned proximate a free end of each retaining arm member. Each retaining arm member defines a receiving space for engaging with a corresponding projection of a heat sink.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1999Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hung-Chi Yu, Wesley Lin
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Patent number: 6058025Abstract: A tailgate assembly of a computer including a tailgate member having a plurality of slots behind which may be positioned removable expansion boards, and an EMC gasket between the tailgate member and the expansion boards. An alignment pin projects from the tailgate member on each side of each slot. The alignment pins on each side of each slot guide the expansion board into place as it is being positioned behind one of the slots and prevents the EMC gasket from sliding out of position.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Richard M. Ecker, Franz Edlinger, Peter W. Kelly
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Patent number: 6046912Abstract: A computer system is described having a chassis, a motherboard coupled to the chassis, the motherboard having at least one PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) connector, and a riser board coupled to the at least one PCI connector. When installed, a surface of the riser board having at least one PCI connector is oriented substantially perpendicular to the motherboard. The computer system may also include a bracket connected to the motherboard, that allows the motherboard to be slideably inserted and removed from the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1999Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Micron Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Michael V. Leman
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Patent number: 6038131Abstract: A mounting structure for mounting circuit components on circuit boards, and particularly for mounting packaged processors on computer mother-boards. The structure includes a pair of retractable guides for mounting the processor package onto the circuit board. The semi-finished circuit board can be prepared for further processing or transportation to a distant location by retracting the guides to greatly reduce the height and volume of each board. Then, when the boards are received, the guides can be erected and the processor package installed. The structure includes means for holding the guides erected to facilitate installation of the processor package, and holding the guides in folded position for processing and/or transportation. Also, each of the guides has a wall with two side-by-side latch openings for receiving offset latch members of the processor package regardless of the orientation of the package relative to the guides.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: SCI Systems, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Valosen, Henry N. Wang, James A. Feemster, Donald H. Keagle, Richard M. Lagle, Jonathan N. Trotter
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Patent number: 6034571Abstract: An oscillator includes a multi-layered base. Circuit patterns are formed on a first main surface and the inside of the multi-layered base. Holes through which wiring patterns of the individual layers of the base are connected are formed within the multi-layered base. Electronic components are mounted on the first main surface of the multi-layered base. First and second reverse electrodes, which serve as external terminals to be connected to an external source, are formed on a second main surface of the multi-layered base. The first reverse electrode serves as a ground electrode, and the second reverse electrodes serve as terminal electrodes. The reverse electrodes are electrically connected to the circuit patterns via the holes. The reverse electrodes are located farther inward than the lateral surfaces of the multi-layered base. A shield cover is placed to tightly cover the first main surface of the multi-layered base.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masao Uno
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Patent number: 6031725Abstract: A computer having a retention module connected to the circuit board of the module for receiving a cartridge containing a microprocessor. The retention module has a base member for mounting to the chassis, and a retention member formed integrally with the base member for receiving a nut for engaging a post on the chassis to mechanically connect the retention module to the chassis. The retention member retains the nut and aligns the nut with the post when the retention module is placed on the chassis prior to the nut being threadedly connected to the post.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1997Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Dell U.S.A., L.P.Inventors: Erica Scholder, Gilberto Hernandez
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Patent number: 6030060Abstract: An adjustable circuit card storage device including a first and second support member which are substantially parallel and opposingly spaced from one another and defining a space for accommodating a plurality of circuit cards substantially normally there between. A pair of spaced adjustment plates extending between and adjustably connecting the first and second support members together to permit the spacing therebetween to be adjusted. A first adjustment assembly including a first part rotatably secured to one of the first and second support members and a second part formed in one of the pair of adjustment plates. The first part being operatively engaged with the second part such that rotation of the first part adjusts the spacing between the first support member and the second support member.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Inventor: Leo O. Drake
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Patent number: 6027535Abstract: A charger for a rechargeable battery pack of a power tool includes a housing and a printed circuit board on which electrical components are mounted. The printed circuit board being mounted in the housing. The housing includes vent openings disposed below the printed circuit board and vent openings disposed above the printed circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1997Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Assignee: Metabowerke GmbH & Co.Inventors: Robert Eberle, Ulrich Haller
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Patent number: 6023415Abstract: A printed circuit board and bulkhead assembly with I/O connectors that may be slidingly mated with a rear panel bulkhead frame of a computer chassis without removing the rear panel and without having to remove any mounting hardware. The I/O connectors are attached to the bulkhead assembly in such a manner that the I/O connectors clear the rear panel bulkhead frame when the bulkhead assembly is being slidingly mated with the rear panel bulkhead frame. The I/O connectors extend through the rear panel bulkhead frame once the bulkhead assembly is mated with the rear panel bulkhead frame. When fully installed, the bulkhead assembly and the rear panel bulkhead frame create a barrier against EMI/RFI radiation emissions escaping the computer chassis.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: David Mayer, Ronald P. Dean, John P. Hoppal, Rex Seader
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Patent number: 6008995Abstract: A card cage for mounting printed circuit cards of at least two sizes is disclosed. The card cage includes an insert removably mounted to a mounting bar position between first and second ends of the card cage. The insert extends along a portion of the width of the card cage. When the insert is mounted to the mounting bar, a printed circuit card of a first length may be disposed between the insert and one of the card cage ends. When the insert is removed, a printed circuit card of a second length greater than the first length may be mounted between the first and second ends of the card cage. Plural mounting bars may be located between the respective card cage ends to accommodate printed circuit cards of different lengths.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Ascend Communications, Inc.Inventors: Mark Pusateri, John P. Jones, Mahesh N. Ganmukhi
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Patent number: 5984688Abstract: A PMC (PCI Mezzanine Card) is disclosed which complies with the IEEE 1386 form factor specification and incorporates a PCMCIA card connector so that readily available PCMCIA cards can be used with a PMC. By removing approximately one-half of the usual PMC printed circuit board, space is created in which to mount the PCMCIA connector so that it is contained within the allowed component envelope above and below the surface of the PMC circuit board (4). The PCMCIA connector (10) is mounted by its leads to a tab (9) extending from circuit board (4). Side rails (15) having an s-shaped bend (18) extend from the circuit board (4) and provide mounting support for the bezel supports (2) thereby meeting the overall size requirements for PMC cards under the IEEE 1386 standard. The design of this invention also permits securing PCMCIA cards in the PCMCIA connector with set screws (21) that may be used to push in on extensions (13).Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1996Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Joseph P. Norris
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Patent number: 5982627Abstract: A frame is provided at the front end of the adapter card receiving area of a personal computer which includes card guides, a flex bar for retaining inserted cards and a dual function blocking member which has opposed blocking surfaces so arranged that they retain the locking bar respectively in a lock and open position respectively and transition between the two with simple, one-hand activation.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Peter Torgil Haughton, Rodrigo Samper, Joel Edwin Walker, Jacklin Ann Adams, Timothy S. Farrow
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Patent number: 5963427Abstract: An improved memory module for mounting chips. The memory module has a circuit board which is at least partially flexible between a first part and a second part. The first part is mounted horizontally over a second circuit board, such as a mother board. The second part is then bent upward, with the memory chip(s) being mounted on the second part of the circuit board. A heat sink is mounted so that it contacts both the first, horizontal part of the circuit board, and the memory chip(s).Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.Inventor: Vernon P. Bollesen
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Patent number: 5954208Abstract: A holder for multiple remote control units includes a plurality of generally planar tiers pivotally coupled to a cylindrical support at one end. The tiers are pivotable to separate at angular positions and secured by an elongated fastener or the like. Embodiments are shown having two and three tiers. A plurality of hook and loop fabric fasteners are secured to the upper surfaces of each receiving tier and to the undersurfaces of the to-be-secured remote control hand units. In its preferred form, the holder is fabricated using a planar member having an aperture at one end thereof together with at least one member having a planar element including a cylindrical support having a passage defined therein. A threaded insert is press fitted within the passage to permit the attachment between the cylindrical support and the remaining structure using a threaded fastener. An extending base member forms a base extension for the bottommost planar tier for supporting the holder against tipping.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1997Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Inventor: Donald F. Schultz
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Patent number: 5949645Abstract: An electronic unit with a mother board carrier beneath a service carrier in a housing. The carriers are independently movable between retracted use positions and forward access positions for maintenance. Service components are hence of no hindrance when removing printed circuit boards from the mother board carrier. The mother board is horizontal with the primary surface facing upwards. This latter feature together with the orientation of other printed circuit boards and of the service components minimizes the frontal area of the unit and provides pathways for front-to-rear cooling air flow. A connector arrangement connects the two carriers together only when both carriers are in their retracted use positions. Flexible lengths of cable extending between the carriers together with attendant stowage and hindrance problems are thus avoided. A retaining bar structure is included which acts at multiple positions against daughter boards to hold them securely against vibration during transporting and also in use.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1998Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Northern Telecom LimitedInventors: Farid H. Aziz, Hope E. Ring, Balwantrai V. Mistrv, J. Michele Low, Mark R. Harris
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Patent number: 5943215Abstract: PCI cards are plugged into vertical risers, the lower edges of which have been plugged into a motherboard. This involves a considerable force being applied to the riser card, both during insertion and removal, and may damage the card or the underlying motherboard. A support for the top edge of the riser card clips onto the upper end thereof. Rearward extensions of the support are gripped by tabs struck out of a wall of the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1997Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.Inventors: James Carney, David Desilets, Clifford Willis
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Patent number: 5930118Abstract: A receiving device for component parts, such as electric assemblies, is connected directly to a circuit board. The weight of the electric assembly is carried by a supporting device on contacting the circuit board. A connector which is part of the electric assembly or one of its components is flexibly disposed with respect to a socket of the circuit board, so that the production tolerances can be compensated without problem and a plug-in connection can be achieved between the connector and the socket without the weight of the electric components placing a load on the plug-in connection.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1998Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Hermann Bernhardt, Johann Haumann, Gunter Klein, Frank Notter
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Patent number: 5923620Abstract: A baseplate-free module includes a circuit board 1 held between housings 41 and 42. The circuit board 1 has engaging holes 17 in which hooks 41a, 42a of the housings 41 and 42 are engaged for assembling purposes to thereby eliminate the need for a baseplate.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hiroshi Takenaka
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Patent number: 5923532Abstract: A card guide for receiving one or more circuit cards in an electronic device is disclosed. The card guide comprises a generally rectangular plate having a plurality of guides formed thereon for receiving and holding the circuit cards. A plurality of perforations arrayed in the plate regulate the flow of a coolant, such as air, across the circuit cards.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1998Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: Rockwell Science Center, Inc.Inventor: Gene Nedved
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Patent number: 5912807Abstract: Packaging (1) for cable assemblies (2), is constructed with cable assemblies (2) in a case (3), the cable assemblies (2) being routed along an interior of the case (3), a circuit board (4) positioned by the case (3) over the cable assemblies (2), and electrical connectors (5) on ends of selected cable assemblies (2) connect to the circuit board (4).Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignees: The Whitaker Corporation, Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Robert Eugene Gallagher, Sr., Scott Alan Landis, Donald Arthur Cawthra, Wesley Charles Slagle, David William Gilmore
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Patent number: 5909359Abstract: An apparatus to extend printed circuit board length allows for secure mounting of the printed circuit boards. More particularly, the extender bracket apparatus (30) is for stabilizing small or short, commercial off the shelf (COTS) circuit boards (20) for personal computers (PC). The apparatus will aid in operation of small circuit boards for rugged applications such as high vibration conditions in vehicles. The extender bracket apparatus (30) is first fastened to an adjustable clamp (60), which is then fastened to a COTS circuit board. The adjustable clamp has holes that facilitate attaching to slots in the extender bracket apparatus. The clamp and extender board may have a dielectric surface to prevent electrical conduction. The dielectric can be an adhesive to hold the printed circuit board. The apparatus can then be fastened to a computer chassis (40) for rigidly mounting the circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Mark David Summers, Ronald Newell Hamilton, Craig Bayman McIntosh
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Patent number: 5905635Abstract: An assembly of electronic modules comprises electronic modules supported by a support structure. Each electronic module is in the form of electronic components stacked on at least two levels which are separated by an intermediate layer. Each electronic module comprises at least one hole formed in the intermediate layer. The support structure comprises at least one rod element that is introduced into respective holes of successive modules.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1997Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Assignee: Alcatel Alsthom Compagnie Generale D'ElectriciteInventors: Claude Drevon, Jean-Jacques Belin
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Patent number: 5903441Abstract: An electronic device having a printed circuit board that must align with and connect to various devices on more than one edge of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board having an isolation slot that creates a peninsula connection region near one edge of the printed circuit board to enable the printed circuit board to be readily aligned inside the electronic device with the various devices that the printed circuit board mates with. The present invention may also include a travel limit bracket attached to the printed circuit board on either side of the isolation slot in order to limit the amount of travel and twisting of the peninsula connection region. The printed circuit board may also include insertion guide that guide the printed circuit board as it is being mated with a front panel of the electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: Ronald P. Dean, David Mayer
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Electronic cartridge which allows differential thermal expansion between components of the cartridge
Patent number: 5894408Abstract: An electronic cartridge that may include a cover which is attached to a thermal element. A substrate may be located between the thermal element and the cover. The cartridge may include a first pin which extends from the thermal element through a datum hole of the substrate. The cartridge may also have a second pin which extends from the thermal element through a first float hole of the substrate. The first float hole may have a major diameter and a minor diameter. The major diameter of the first float hole may be larger than the diameter of the second pin so that the second pin can move relative to the substrate. The first float hole allows movement of the second pin when there is a differential thermal expansion between the thermal element and the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: April 13, 1999Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Michael Stark, Michael Rutigliano, James S. Webb -
Patent number: 5883784Abstract: Mounting for holding a planar electronic device, e.g. a printed circuit board in electronic slots to receive edges of the electronic device and a clamp is inserted into each slot to clamp an edge of the device in heat conductive engagement with a side surface of the slot. The clamp has a rigid elongate clamp element inserted along the slot, springs to urge the clamp element towards the side surface of the clamp to provide a clamping action and a lever to move the clamp element out of a clamping position to release the electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Assignee: Northern Telecom LimitedInventors: Richard P. Hughes, Trevor G. Zapach, Patrick T. Lawless
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Patent number: RE36820Abstract: A robust optoelectronic transceiver module which is quick, easy, and inexpensive to manufacture. The transceiver module has a main housing which consists of a potting box with potting material inserted therein. In addition, a circuit board is encased by the potting material. The circuit board has an optical subassembly mounted thereon. The optical subassembly extends outside of the potting box through a recess. Correspondingly, a recess cover is provided for forming a liquid fight seal between the recess cover, the potting box, and the optical subassembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventors: James W. McGinley, Daniel S. Poplawski