US 12,706,416 B1 · Floating interconnect solution for small de-mate connectors

Abstract

Embodiments described within disclose a floating interconnect in which two connectors on a carrier float a small amount in the direction of connection. Cam handles on the carrier provide leverage that overcomes an initial mating force and lever the carrier connections most or all of the way to full seat against the mating board connectors. Then, for each connector, a thumb screw passes through the connector and is screwed into the mating connector. As the thumbscrew is fastened, a shoulder on the thumbscrew draws the connected down and fully seats it against the board connector with move of the carrier connector being accommodated by the float of the connector with respect to the carrier. This reduces or prevents the compressive stress on the carrier that would otherwise result from having the connections made solely by forcing the carrier against the mating connectors.

Claims18

Dependent claims

An apparatus comprising:

a carrier plate having a surface;
a first fastener including a first threaded end and a first shoulder;
a first connector slidably connected to the carrier plate such that the first connector is slidable relative to the surface of the carrier plate, wherein, when the carrier plate is engaged within a device slot of a chassis:
the first connector is positioned on the carrier plate such that the first connector opposes a second connector of the chassis;
and
the first fastener is extended through the first hole and secured into a first threaded hole in the second connector and causes the first shoulder to abut the first connector and hold the first connector against the second connector.

3 more elements

An apparatus comprising:

a carrier plate;
a first fastener including a first threaded end and a first shoulder;
a second fastener including a second threaded end and a second shoulder;
a first connector slidably connected to the carrier plate such that the first connector is slidable relative to the surface of the carrier plate;
a third connector slidably connected to the carrier plate such that the second connector is slidable relative to the surface of the carrier plate;
and cabling connecting the first connector and the third connector, wherein, when the carrier plate is engaged within a device slot of a chassis:
the first connector is positioned on the carrier plate such that the first connector opposes a second connector of the chassis;
the third connector is positioned on the carrier plate such that the third connector opposes a fourth connector of the chassis;
the first fastener is extended through a first hole in the first connector and secured into a first threaded hole in the second connector and causes the first shoulder to abut the first connector and hold the first connector against the second connector;
the second fastener is extended through a second hole in the third connector and secured into a second threaded hole in the fourth connector and causes the second shoulder to abut the third connector and hold the third connector against the fourth connector;
and the cabling completes a connection between the second connector and the fourth connector.

8 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Floating interconnect solution for small de-mate connectors

Life of this patent

Floating interconnect solution for small de-mate connectors

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims18