US 6,603,669 B2 · Capture device for boards having variable thickness

Abstract

A capture device for use with circuit boards of varying thicknesses prevents the spacing between the boards from increasing and has a unitary body including a flexible arm, a clip cavity and multiple living hinges that enable the device to be pivotally self-locked between the circuit boards. The capture device can be engaged and disengaged in poor visibility and limited access areas densely packed with circuit boards. The capture device may be made of a semi-rigid material that provides enough flexibility for the living hinges, yet is rigid enough to exert pressure on the boards and prevent the spacing between the boards from increasing. In alternative embodiments, more than two circuit boards may be secured using alternative configurations of the capture device with either multiple arms or multiple clip cavities.

Claims22

Dependent claims

An apparatus for removably securing multiple circuit boards comprising:

(a) a main body capable of receiving a first circuit board;
(b) a first arm extending from the main body, the first arm capable of pivoting in relation to the main body;
and
(c) an engaging mechanism formed at an end of the first arm for engaging and removably securing another circuit board in spaced relation to the first circuit board;
the first arm and the main body are joined with a living hinge.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Capture device for boards having variable thickness

Life of this patent

Capture device for boards having variable thickness

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22