US 6,887,093 B1 · Patch panel latching and holding mechanism apparatus and method

Abstract

High-power coaxial signal lines, as used for example in television transmitters, employ patch panels with coaxial connections typically 7 cm to 30 cm in diameter to permit rerouting of signals. Like smaller patch panels, these use U-shaped coaxial links; rigid U-links for this application may be a meter between centers and weigh many kilograms. A patch panel handle and latch mechanism includes a gripping handle element integral with a latching element, the combination of which permits the user to grasp a pair of handles, release the latches retaining a U-link, remove the U-link from its position on the patch panel, and reposition the U-link without altering grip. Unlike previous designs, the novel handle/latch mechanism avoids hammers and clamps, as well as avoiding grasping large, fragile, possibly hot or dirty equipment, allowing the task to be performed with integral handles.

Claims22

Dependent claims

A handle and latch mechanism for a patch panel and U-link system having a contact, comprising:

a plunging and rotating rod attached to a U-link element of the U-link system;
a latch finger at a first end of said rod;
a handle for grasping the U-link element at a second end of said rod;
a guide mechanism attached to the U-link system to constrain a motion of said rod to a path parallel to an axis of a first end section of the U-link element substantially orthogonal to the patch panel;
a catch fitting attached to the patch panel into which said latch finger inserts;
a stop affixed to said rod;
and
a spring bearing against said stop at a first end of said spring.

5 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Patch panel latching and holding mechanism apparatus and method

Life of this patent

Patch panel latching and holding mechanism apparatus and method

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22