Connection Indicating Provision Patents (Class 439/489)
  • Patent number: 8851921
    Abstract: A connector has a first housing (10) with two detection terminals (13) and a second housing (20) with a resilient deforming portion (25). A detection unit (40) is in the second housing (20) and has two connecting portions (42) that rub against the detection terminals (13) in the process of connecting the two housings (10, 20). The connecting portions (42) are connected to the detection terminals (13) when the housings (10, 20) are connected properly. Fixed contact portions (45) and movable contact portions (50) release a shorted state of the connecting portions (42) as the resilient deforming portion (25) is deformed and short the connecting portions (42) as the resilient deforming portion (25) is resiliently restored. A catch preventing structure (51) prevents foreign matter from being caught at the detection contact portions (45, 50) when the housings (10, 20) are separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroki Segawa
  • Publication number: 20140287614
    Abstract: A power-supplying electrical connector includes an engagement mechanism configured to engage a power-receiving electrical connector, the engagement mechanism having a pair of engaging members, and an indicator member configured to disengage from the engagement mechanism and move from a charging-disabled position to a charging-enabled position, when the engagement mechanism has engaged the power-receiving electrical connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicants: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Nakajima, Kenji Sekinada, Takenori Ohmura
  • Publication number: 20140273609
    Abstract: A cable connector includes a body member having a first opening to receive a cable and a second opening. An indicator is movable between first and second positions. A stop member substantially prevents unintended movement of the indicator from the first position to the second position. The indicator moves past the stop member and through the second opening in the body member when moving from the first position to the second position and is exposed externally of the body member to indicate full insertion of the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Seydou DIOP, Paul ZELAZNY
  • Publication number: 20140248792
    Abstract: An electrical connector is provided for mating with a mating connector. The electrical connector includes a housing and electrical contacts held by the housing. The electrical contacts are configured to mate with corresponding mating contacts of the mating connector. A sense pin is held by the housing and is configured to mate with a corresponding mating contact of the mating connector. The sense pin extends a length that includes a tip segment and a sensing segment. The tip and sensing segments have different electrical characteristics. The tip segment includes a tip of the sense pin. The tip segment extends between the sensing segment and the tip such that the sensing segment is offset from the tip along the length of the sense pin. The sensing segment is configured to indicate that the electrical contacts and the mating contacts are de-mated by more than a predetermined de-mating distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Tyco Electronics Corporation
  • Publication number: 20140206225
    Abstract: An electrical connector for mating with a mating electrical connector. The electrical connector has a surface having a first reference member and a latch having a second reference member. The first reference member and the second reference member are positioned to indicate when the electrical connector is fully mated to the mating electrical connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: TYCO ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventor: John Mark MYER
  • Patent number: 8769782
    Abstract: The first projecting portion (12) which is situated close to the entrance of the lock hole (11) imparts a reaction force to the lock arm (21) from therebehind so as to push the lock arm (21) towards the second projecting portion (13). Therefore, the engagement force of the permanent locking projection (23) on the lock arm (21) with the second projecting portion (13) on the lock hole can be enhanced, thereby making it possible to enhance the lock holding force. In addition, without the pressure imparted from the first projecting portion (12) to a back of the lock arm (21), the lock arm (21) would flex about the proximal end portion thereof, as a fulcrum, which is a support portion where to support the lock arm (21) which is the cantilever-shaped arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Ryo Fujikawa
  • Publication number: 20140187078
    Abstract: A connector detection circuit is used for detecting whether a first connector of an electronic device is in sufficient connection with a second connector of a connection device. The connector detection circuit includes a pressure sensing module, a switch unit, and an indicator. The pressure sensing module is located under the pins of the first connector, to sense whether there is pressure applied on each pin of the first connector by a corresponding pin of the second connector, and to output sensed results. The switch unit is connected to the pressure sensing module to receive the sensed results, and is connected to the indicator to control the indicator to indicate whether the first connector and the second connector have a sufficient connection with each other according to the sensed results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD .
    Inventor: HAI-QING ZHOU
  • Patent number: 8758043
    Abstract: A fitting confirmation construction includes a confirmation part in a first connector and a confirmation opening in a second connector. A rib is provided in the confirmation opening. A height of the confirmation part is equal to a height of the rib and the confirmation part and the rib are positioned on a same line, on a viewing direction which is viewed from an obliquely upper position rearward in an inserting direction of the second connector through the confirmation opening, in a state that the second connector is completely fit with the first connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Kouichi Ohyama
  • Patent number: 8753142
    Abstract: A method of retrofitting an existing patching system with an intelligent patching module includes the steps of: providing at least one patching shelf unit populated with interconnection sites, the shelf unit including a rear face and an opposing front side; routing a cable between a rear location located rearward of the rear face and the front side; connecting the cable to the intelligent patching module; and attaching the intelligent patching module to the shelf unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: CommScope, Inc. of North Carolina
    Inventors: Patrick Fariello, Gil Ruiz
  • Patent number: 8747147
    Abstract: An electrical connector comprises an insulative housing, a metallic shell surround the insulative housing, a plurality of contacts and two detect pin retained to the insulative housing. The insulative housing is formed with a base and a tongue extending forwardly from the base. The shell and the insulative housing define a receiving cavity therebetween. The two detect pins are fastened to two opposite ends of the insulative housing, respectively, each has a detecting portion located in the receiving cavity, and the detecting portions of the two detect pins are disposed offset along a front-to-back direction for being selectively pushed by the mating plug. One of the contacts is formed with a wing contacting with the first detecting portion. The electrical connector can detect insertions of different mating plugs via the detect pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun-Ming Yu, Kai-Gang Yu, Ji-Chao Wang, Terrance F. Little, Stephen Sedio, An-Jen Yang
  • Patent number: 8747146
    Abstract: An electrical connector comprising a housing having at least one terminal receiving passageway, an opening positioned proximate at least one terminal receiving passageway, a primary latch for latching the electric connector to a mating connector, and a slot extending longitudinally along side the primary latch. The connector has a connector position assurance member (CPA) positionable in the opening and having a locking latch which is laterally offset from the primary latch of the housing. The CPA has first and second longitudinal positions. The first position where the CPA is in a partially inserted position and a second position where the housing is in a fully mated position within a mating connector housing and the CPA is in a fully inserted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Dale Brown, Hoy Smith Beck, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8727802
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for generating a synthetic tactile sensation in a connector in an electronic device. In the described embodiments, a sensor is coupled to a receptacle for the connector and configured to sense a mating of the receptacle and a plug for the connector. An actuator is coupled to the receptacle, and a processing subsystem is coupled to the sensor and the actuator and configured to use the actuator to generate a synthetic tactile sensation based on information received from the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: George V. Anastas
  • Patent number: 8724281
    Abstract: A system that detects electrical disconnection of one connector from another connector includes a detection circuitry and a protection circuitry. The detection circuitry detects that a plug connector has been electrically disconnected from a corresponding receptacle connector. In response to the detection, the detection circuitry sends a signal to the protection circuitry. In response to the signal, the protection circuitry lowers or terminates power being supplied to a host device via one of the contacts of the plug connector. This helps to prevent shocks/shorts that may be caused by accidental disconnection of the plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Mullins, Alexei Kosut, Jeffrey J. Terlizzi, Jahan Minoo
  • Patent number: 8721353
    Abstract: An electrical connector socket includes a casing, a main body received in the casing, a first power contact terminal one distal end of which is mounted inside the power transmission body, a first power detect terminal, a second power detect terminal, a second power contact terminal, a ground terminal, upper terminals, lower terminals, an upper enclosure provided to enclose the bents of the upper terminals and a lower enclosure provided to enclose the bents of the lower terminals and to combine with the upper enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced-Connectek Inc.
    Inventors: Fu Yi Xu, Wei Wan, Shu Lin Duan, Hua Yan Wu
  • Publication number: 20140125352
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising: a first terminal; and a second terminal; wherein: the first terminal is configured to electrically couple with a respective first terminal of a second apparatus when the apparatus and said second apparatus are in either of a first mated condition and a second mated condition; and the second terminal is configured: to electrically couple with a respective second terminal of said second apparatus when the apparatus and said second apparatus are in the first mated condition, and to electrically decouple from said respective second terminal of said second apparatus when the apparatus and said second apparatus are in a second mated condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: NOKIA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas Franke, Tim Sobig
  • Patent number: 8696377
    Abstract: A communication connector with analog coupling circuit and a mechanical coupling circuit used for providing security to electronic devices. The analog circuit includes a male plug with an outer shell and tongue shell. Between the outer shell and tongue is a thin layer of non-conductive material to prevent the closure of a circuit. Two separate conductors are wired through the USB body; one attaching to the outer shell and the other attaching to the tongue. A closed circuit is created when the male USB is placed into a female receptor. The mechanical circuit creates a closed circuit when the plunger switch becomes compressed. There is a security monitor system connected to an end of the two conductors, which sound an alarm when circuit is opened. The alarm will sound if a thief attempts to steal the article either by cutting the wire or removal of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Vanguard Products Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Kelsch, Chung-Ping Lee, John N. Figh, Jr., Lucas P. Swartwood, Bruno M. L. Telles
  • Patent number: 8686870
    Abstract: An intelligent physical layer management system is provided that includes active electronic hardware, firmware, mechanical assemblies, cables, and software that guide, monitor, and report on the process of connecting and disconnecting patch cords plugs in an interconnect patching environment. RFID tag integrated chips are used to identify which switch port a patch cord is plugged into. The system is capable of monitoring patch cord connections to detect insertions or removals of patch cords or plugs. In addition, the system can map the patch field in interconnect configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Jack E. Caveney, Ronald A. Nordin
  • Publication number: 20140087585
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for generating a synthetic tactile sensation in a connector in an electronic device. In the described embodiments, a sensor is coupled to a receptacle for the connector and configured to sense a mating of the receptacle and a plug for the connector. An actuator is coupled to the receptacle, and a processing subsystem is coupled to the sensor and the actuator and configured to use the actuator to generate a synthetic tactile sensation based on information received from the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: George V. Anastas
  • Patent number: 8678846
    Abstract: An electrical connector is provided for mating with a mating connector and includes a housing and a fulcrum latch mechanism having a latch arm extending from a latching end to an actuation end. The latch arm is configured to rotate about a fulcrum that is located along the length of the latch arm between the latching and actuation ends such that the latching end is configured to move between a latched position and an unlatched position. A connector position assurance (CPA) device is movably held by the housing such that the CPA device is configured to move relative to the housing between a mated position and an unmated position. The CPA device is movably held by the housing independently of the latch arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew Bryan Hitchcock, Bradley Scott Buchter
  • Publication number: 20140080354
    Abstract: An intelligent network patch field management system is provided that includes active electronic hardware, firmware, mechanical assemblies, cables, and software that guide, monitor, and report on the process of connecting and disconnecting patch cords plugs in an interconnect or cross-connect patching environment. The system is also capable of monitoring patch cord connections to detect insertions or removals of patch cords or plugs. In addition, the system can map embodiments of patch fields.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Jack E. Caveney, Ronald A. Nordin, Shahriar B. Allen
  • Patent number: 8672706
    Abstract: The present invention provides a connector assembly having a small size and preventing a contact between a bolt fastener and a detection member. The connector assembly includes a connector having an inner chamber with an opening and a plurality of connector terminals, a connector receptacle having a plurality of connector receptacle terminals securable together with the connector terminals and a first detection member, and a cover for covering the opening and having a second detection member. When the opening of the inner chamber is covered with the cover, the first detection member and the second detection member are connected together and detect that the cover is covered. The first detection member is disposed between the adjacent connector receptacle terminals. An end surface of the first housing is positioned inwardly of the inner chamber with respect to a surface of a connector electrical contact portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Matsumoto, Hajime Kato, Kouichi Nakayama, Tsuyoshi Mizushima
  • Patent number: 8668516
    Abstract: An identifiable plug and a plug assembly having the same are disclosed. The identifiable plug includes a power input port, a power output port, a storage unit, a signal transmission unit and a processing unit. The power output port is configured to insert into a plug of electronic equipment. The power input port is connected with the power output port. The processing unit is configured to transmit an identification information stored in the storage unit via the signal transmission unit. When the identifiable plug is assembled with an electric socket, the electric socket is capable to read the identification information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu-Lung Lee
  • Publication number: 20140065874
    Abstract: A high-amperage connector with visual alignment features is described. The connector can comprise a male connector with a male skirt where the male skirt has two keys on an outer surface. At least one of the keys on the outer surface of the male skirt can have an alignment feature. The connector also comprises a female connector with a female skin where the female skirt has two keyways on an inner surface of the female skirt. At least one of the keyways can have a corresponding alignment feature located on the outer surface of the female skirt. The alignment features on the male skirt and the female skirt allow a user to easily align the two connectors before connecting them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Adam D. Ledgerwood, Alvah Aldrich, Jason Oliver
  • Patent number: 8657621
    Abstract: A connector apparatus has an equipment-side connector (20) mounted in a case (10) and a harness-side connector (30) fit on the equipment-side connector (20) through an opening in the case (10). Fit-on detection mechanisms (27, 40) for detecting connection of the equipment-side connector (20) and the harness-side connector (30) are provided therebetween. The fit-on detection mechanism (27) of the equipment-side connector (20) has two male tabs (28). The fit-on detection mechanism (40) of the harness-side connector (30) has a shorting terminal (50) and two relay terminals (55). The shorting terminal (50) has a coupling plate (51) and two pins (52) projecting from the coupling plate (51). The relay terminals (55) have connection parts (57) at both ends for connecting to the pins (52) of the shorting terminal (50) and to the male tabs (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Michiyo Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 8653957
    Abstract: A visual indicator assembly and adaptor for a trailer includes an control circuit, an input lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit, an output lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit, and an identification lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit. The input lamp plug is connectable to a trailer lamp plug of a lamp wiring harness of the trailer. The output lamp plug is connectable to a stop lamp of the trailer. The identification lamp plug is connectable to a corresponding identification lamp plug of the lamp wiring harness. The control circuit is configured to supply a first voltage signal to a plurality of lamps of the trailer in response to a power signal and supply a second voltage signal to the plurality of lamps in response to a brake signal. The second voltage signal is greater than the first voltage signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventors: Rodney Ehrlich, David Pickup
  • Patent number: 8651892
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system for connecting two connectors to each other. The system includes a first connector having a first connector surface, and the first connector surface includes a transparent shape. Further, a second connector, having a second connector surface, includes a portion that includes a second connector color. Particularly, the second connector is configured to be inserted into the first connector, enabling a superimposition and alignment of the transparent shape with the portion of the second connector surface, thereby visually indicating a valid connection between the two connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Paul Arant
  • Patent number: 8643476
    Abstract: A patch panel for a communications patching system includes a plurality of connector ports. Each connector port is configured to detect insertion and removal of a patch cord. A controller is electrically coupled to the connector ports and monitors patch cord interconnections. An electronic display is positioned adjacent the connector ports and displays port identification information and real-time patch cord connection information for each respective connector port. The displayed patch cord connection information is dynamically updated by the controller as a patch cord is inserted or removed from a respective connector port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: CommScope, Inc. of North Carolina
    Inventors: Gregory Pinn, Chin Choi-Feng, David Beihoff, G. Mabud Choudhury, Michael German, Matias Peluffo, George Brooks
  • Publication number: 20140030909
    Abstract: A controlling device includes a controlling device main unit, a terminal block removably attached to the controlling device main unit, and a lock mechanism. The terminal block attached to the controlling device main unit is locked through the movement of a slide member provided with the controlling device main unit. The slide member includes a permanent magnet disposed in a specific position. The controlling device main unit includes a magnetism detecting portion that detects magnetism of the permanent magnet, located in a location in proximity to the permanent magnet, disposed in the slide member, in a state wherein terminal block is locked through movement of the slide member, and a lock status confirming portion that confirms whether or not the terminal block is in a locked state, based on a detection signal from the magnetism detecting portion indicating whether or not magnetism is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Azbil Corporation
    Inventor: Takanori AOKI
  • Publication number: 20140004735
    Abstract: A card connector with a card insertion detection mechanism has a first movable terminal, and a second movable terminal. An abutting portion located on the first movable terminal is engageable with a card upon insertion to displace the first movable terminal from the second moveable terminal, and is disengageable from the card upon removal. A cam portion of the first movable terminal is positioned to contact the second movable terminal, and wipe with the second movable terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Junya Tsuji, Masaaki Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 8616914
    Abstract: The present application relates to a checkable plug-in connection comprising a plug having at least one latching element, a verification element which is secured to the plug via a connection element so as to be prevented from being removed, and a mating plug which can be connected to the plug and comprises at least one counter-latching element. The plug-in connection is configured so as to be able to pass from a pre-connection configuration, in which the verification element is prevented from being removed from the plug by the connection element and in which the plug and mating plug are separate from one another, into an end connection configuration, in which the counter-latching element is engaged with the at least one latching element and in which the plug and mating plug are prevented from being pulled apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics AMP GmbH
    Inventors: Guenther Mumper, Yehya Ashour, Harmut Ripper
  • Publication number: 20130330962
    Abstract: Circuits, methods, and apparatus that may provide for reliable detection of electrical and optical audio plugs. One example may detect an optical audio plug by employing one or more mechanical detect switches. These switches may include a first contacting portion and a second contacting portion that are separated from each other when an audio plug is inserted into the audio jack. The second contacting portion may include one or more arms to contact a surface portion of the first contacting portion. The first contacting portion and the second contacting portion may be biased such that they tend to stay in contact with each other as the first contacting portion begins to be deflected by the insertion of an audio plug, thereby wiping dust or debris from between the first contacting portion and the second contacting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: George T. Tziviskos, Zheng Gao
  • Patent number: 8597048
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connector system comprising a first connector having a plurality of first contact terminals (E, F, G, J); a second connector having a plurality of second contact terminals, wherein the second contact terminals (A, B, C, D) and the electrical device are arranged such that, while connecting, the first contact terminals come into contact with a first subset of the plurality of second contact terminals in a first connecting stage and while the connecting further proceeds the first contact terminals come into contact with a second subset of the second contact terminals, such that in the first connecting stage an electrical quantity between two of the first contact terminals is detectable which is different from the electrical quantity in an uncoupled condition of the connectors, and in the second connecting stage a further electrical quantity between at least two of the first contact terminals is detectable which is different from the electrical quantity detected in the first connecting
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences IPRM AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Pfeiffer, Tobias Thomamuller, Reinhold Knoll
  • Publication number: 20130300214
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure illustrates a transmission cable including a first port, a second port, a third port and a plurality of conduction wires. Through each respective one of the plurality of conduction wires, a power pin of the third port is connected to power pins of the first port and the second port, a ground pin of the third port is connected to a ground pin of the first port, and a specific pin of the third port is connected to a metal shielding case or the ground pin of the second port. The second port is floating when the specific pin of the third port is connected to the metal shielding case. Therefore, the stability of a transmission system established through the transmission cable can be guaranteed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicants: LITE-ON TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION, LITE-ON ELECTRONICS (GUANGZHOU) LIMITED
    Inventors: CHIA-WEN HSU, CHIEN-CHUN MA, LIN-YEAN LIN
  • Patent number: 8573994
    Abstract: A connector handle for an electric vehicle battery charger is provided. The connector handle includes a latch that is operable to a locked position and an unlocked position. The connector handle also includes an electric circuit configured to provide an enable indication and a disable indication. The connector handle also includes an actuator button moveable to a first position where the latch is in the locked position and the electric circuit provides the enable indication, a second position where the latch is in the locked position and the electric circuit provides the disable indication, and a third position where the latch is in the unlocked position and the electric circuit provides the disable indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Kiko, Joseph Matthew Senk, Brian D. Pasha, Steven William Marzo
  • Publication number: 20130280951
    Abstract: A connector assembly comprises a male connector and a female connector. The female connector includes a housing having an inner surface defining a cavity configured to receive the male connector. The male connector includes a housing having an outer surface configured to enable the male connector to be at least partially inserted into the cavity. The outer surface comprises a background region and an indicator region configured to emit a detectable quantity of light that is distinguishable from light emitted by the background region of the male connector and from light emitted by the housing of the female connector. The indicator region is shaped and positioned to be at least partially exposed whenever the male connector is not fully assembled into the female connector and to be completely within the housing of the female connector whenever the male connector is fully assembled into the female connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Heitmann, Bernard J. Slovan
  • Patent number: 8556651
    Abstract: A connector assembly comprises a male connector and a female connector. The female connector includes a housing having an inner surface defining a cavity configured to receive the male connector. The male connector includes a housing having an outer surface configured to enable the male connector to be at least partially inserted into the cavity. The outer surface comprises a background region and an indicator region configured to emit a detectable quantity of light that is distinguishable from light emitted by the background region of the male connector and from light emitted by the housing of the female connector. The indicator region is shaped and positioned to be at least partially exposed whenever the male connector is not fully assembled into the female connector and to be completely within the housing of the female connector whenever the male connector is fully assembled into the female connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Heitmann, Bernard J. Slovan
  • Patent number: 8550840
    Abstract: An electrical connector monitoring system for a plug and receptacle assembly, that includes a plug connected to the plug assembly, a recess located within the plug, an electrically insulative layer disposed in the recess, a wear member disposed on the plug that at least partially traverses the insulated recess and in electrical contact with the plug, a contact member movably connected with a receptacle of the receptacle, and a signal device in electrical connection through a circuit with the plug, wear member, and contact member when the plug is fully seated within the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Phillip V. Mann, Mark D. Plucinski, Sandra J. Shirk/Heath, Arvind K. Sinha
  • Patent number: 8541684
    Abstract: An elbow terminator has a socket in which an electrical probe is disposed. The terminator is insertable onto an electrical bushing such that a tongue of the bushing is received in the socket of the terminator, and the probe of the terminator is electrically coupled to a contact sleeve disposed within the tongue. A latching mechanism produces positive latching between the tongue and socket when the tongue has been inserted to a predescribed depth within the socket. In order to enable an operator to visually observe that the tongue has been inserted to the prescribed depth, the bushing carries a color band which becomes completely disposed (invisible) in the socket when positive latching occurs. Alternatively, the bushing can be provided with gauge tabs which become aligned with a witness line formed on the terminator when positive latching occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Andrew Edgar Meyer, Todd Kim Knapp, Frank John Muench
  • Publication number: 20130244474
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system for connecting two connectors to each other. The system includes a first connector having a first connector surface, and the first connector surface includes a transparent shape. Further, a second connector, having a second connector surface, includes a portion that includes a second connector color. Particularly, the second connector is configured to be inserted into the first connector, enabling a superimposition and alignment of the transparent shape with the portion of the second connector surface, thereby visually indicating a valid connection between the two connectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Paul Arant
  • Publication number: 20130244473
    Abstract: An electrical connector includes an insulative housing with a plurality of conductive terminals mounted thereon. A metallic shell surrounds the insulative housing thereby defining a mating cavity therein for receiving a mating plug. A spring plate is formed on one side wall of the metallic shell and projects into the mating cavity. A terminal module is attached to said side wall of the metallic shell and separated from the insulative housing by said side wall. The terminal module has a body section and a conductive terminal. The spring plate together with the conductive terminal form a detection switch which can detect whether a mating plug is inserted or not.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: MICHAEL MCKEE, HOWARD WALLACE ANDREWS
  • Patent number: 8535087
    Abstract: An electrical connector includes an insulative housing with a plurality of conductive terminals mounted thereon. A metallic shell surrounds the insulative housing thereby defining a mating cavity therein for receiving a mating plug. A spring plate is formed on one side wall of the metallic shell and projects into the mating cavity. A terminal module is attached to said side wall of the metallic shell and separated from the insulative housing by said side wall. The terminal module has a body section and a conductive terminal. The spring plate together with the conductive terminal form a detection switch which can detect whether a mating plug is inserted or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael McKee, Howard Wallace Andrews
  • Patent number: 8500472
    Abstract: A connector includes a housing and a terminal. The housing has an insertion space into which a thin insertion object is inserted. The terminal member has a supported portion supported by the housing, an elastic portion configured to be elastically deformed according to an insertion of the thin insertion object into the insertion space, and a terminal portion to be soldered to a board. The terminal portion is extended from the supported portion in a direction different form an extending direction of the elastic portion. The terminal member is configured to detect an insertion state of the thin insertion object based on a change of conduction by the elastic deformation of the elastic portion A sectional area reducing part is provided in the terminal member between the supported portion and the terminal portion. The sectional area reducing part has a sectional area smaller than a sectional area at the terminal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsumi Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi Shimoyama, Kiyotaka Aoki
  • Patent number: 8493228
    Abstract: An approach to cable management is presented. A bi-stable liquid crystal display that requires no power to maintain an image is attached to a communications cable. A bi-stable liquid crystal display may be attached to each end of the cable. The bi-stable liquid crystal displays may be built into the connectors. A display module connects to the bi-stable liquid crystal display and receives signals associated with a message about the communications cable. The display module causes messages to be shown on the bi-stable liquid crystal display in response to receiving the signal. The signal may be generated by a user with a hand held driver. The signal may also be generated automatically by computing devices (such as switches) that are attached to the communications cable. Users may easily determine information about the communications cable by looking at the messages on the bi-stable liquid crystal displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Tara Astigarraga, Louie A. Dickens, Nancy V. Ryson, Daniel J. Winarski
  • Patent number: 8475191
    Abstract: An electric connection terminal includes a housing having at least one conductor insertion opening. A clamping spring is disposed in the housing. A metal part is disposed in the housing. An actuating element is disposed in the housing and has a handle configured to move the actuating element into an open position and a closed position so as to open and close the connection terminal. A labeling field identifying the connection terminal is disposed so as to be visible to a user at all times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Arndt Schafmeister
  • Patent number: 8477031
    Abstract: A communication port identification system enables an intelligent interconnect patch panel to reliably track connections to network switches. Network switch ports are provided with port ID modules that are inserted into the ports. Intelligent interconnect patch cords each utilize a patch cord microcontroller and out-of-band conductors to enable communication between an intelligent interconnect patch panel and the port ID modules of the switch port. Each port ID module is provided with a unique identification number, and the intelligent interconnect patch panel is thereby able to track all of its connections to the port ID modules in real time, and to update a network management system accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: John M. McNally, Shahriar B. Allen, Satish I. Patel
  • Patent number: 8475202
    Abstract: An electrical connector socket includes an insulation base, a tongue piece and a detection terminal. The insulation base includes a stopping surface. The tongue piece includes a side wall vertically extending from the stopping surface. The detection terminal includes a fixed end embedded into the insulation base, an elastic arm extending from the fixed end in a curved manner with its concave surface facing the side wall, and a contact section continuously extending from the elastic arm in a curved manner with its convex surface facing the side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Taiwin Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Jui-Tu Chiang
  • Publication number: 20130164971
    Abstract: A smart socket is provided. The smart socket has a set of power sockets, configured for a set of power pins of a smart plug to plug into, a driving pin and a set of detection pins, configured for forming a circuit with a set of feedback pins of a smart plug when the set of power pins is plugged into the power sockets, and an identification code module, configured for obtaining an identification code of an electric appliance, from the circuit, to which the smart plug belongs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Shen-Ming Chung, Hsiao-Hui Lee, Chin-Chen Lee
  • Patent number: 8465308
    Abstract: Connectors that may be incorporated and used in electronic devices in a reliable manner. One example may provide a connector that may receive a memory card, such as a Secure Digital, SmartMedia, Compact Flash, or other type of memory card. One example may provide a connector that may connect to other electronic circuits and components in an electronic device in a reliable manner. Another may provide a connector that may reliably form a connection for electromagnetic interference protection during device assembly. Another may provide a connector that may be resistant to damage from debris or other particulate matter that may enter the connector. Another example may provide a connector that has a back that is reinforced to prevent damage caused by the insertion of a card with excessive force. Another may provide a connector having a raised portion arranged to fit in an opening in a printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Appple Inc.
    Inventors: Zheng Gao, Greg Springer, William Long, John Raff, Laura DeForest
  • Publication number: 20130149892
    Abstract: An elbow terminator has a socket in which an electrical probe is disposed. The terminator is insertable onto an electrical bushing such that a tongue of the bushing is received in the socket of the terminator, and the probe of the terminator is electrically coupled to a contact sleeve disposed within the tongue. A latching mechanism produces positive latching between the tongue and socket when the tongue has been inserted to a predescribed depth within the socket. In order to enable an operator to visually observe that the tongue has been inserted to the prescribed depth, the bushing carries a color band which becomes completely disposed (invisible) in the socket when positive latching occurs. Alternatively, the bushing can be provided with gauge tabs which become aligned with a witness line formed on the terminator when positive latching occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Andrew Edgar Meyer, Todd Kim Knapp, Frank John Muench
  • Patent number: 8460025
    Abstract: A flexing strip (41) is formed on a housing (20). An interference part (63) is formed on a fit-on detector (50). A distinguishing part (46) having a color different from the fit-on detector (50) is formed on the flexing strip (41). The flexing strip (41) interferes with the interference part (63) and deforms while moving the fit-on detector (50) from a wait position to a detection position. The flexing strip (41) is released from an interference state with the interference part (63) and elastically restores to its original state when the fit-on detector (50) has reached the detection position. A position of the distinguishing part (46) relative to the interference part (63) changes before and after a flexing of the flexing strip (41) so that the distinguishing part (46) is exposed and can be seen from a distinguishing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroki Segawa, Yukihiro Fukatsu, Masayasu Fujii