Connector with integrated latch assembly
AssigneeMolex Incorporated
InventorsBruce Reed, Harold Keith Lang, Jay Neer
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A connector utilizes a latching assembly that has a structure that connects horizontal movement of an actuator to vertical movement of a latching arm. A latching member is provided that grips the exterior of the connector and has a cantilevered latching arm that extends from the member over a mating portion for connection. In its simplest form the latching member includes a continuous retaining collar that fits over the exterior of the connector and exerts a clamping force on the connector so as to retain the latching member in place.
Claims25
A connector, comprising:
- a two-piece connector housing including at least one mating portion and a body portion, the at least one mating portion being disposed forwardly of the housing body portion and being sized to fit within a receptacle of an opposing, mating connector;
- a latching member supported by the body portion, the latching member including a retainer for retaining the latching member in place upon the body portion, and a latching arm that projects from the retainer in a cantilevered fashion, the latching arm extending from the body portion toward the at least one mating portion and terminating in an engagement end, the retainer engaging a majority of the body portion perimeter;
- and
- an actuator for moving the latching arm between first and second operative positions, the actuator including a first end that protrudes outwardly away from the body portion and a second end that extends toward the at least one mating portion, the actuator second end being interposed between the latching member and the connector housing, the second end further including a cam end disposed thereon, whereby movement of the actuator causes the engagement end to be raised above the at least one mating portion.
A connector with a latching mechanism, comprising:
- a housing, the housing having a mating end and a rear end with an aperture configured to receive at least one electrical cable therein;
- a latching clip supported by the housing, the latching mechanism including a retainer that clampingly engages the housing and an engagement end disposed opposite the retainer and a body portion extending therebetween, the engagement end including an engagement member for engaging, in operation, an opposing connector, the engagement end configured to translate in a vertical direction;
- and
- an actuator having a free end that is interposed between the housing and the latching clip, the actuator being capable of horizontal movement, whereby horizontal movement of the actuator causes vertical movement in the engagement end.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.