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Locking device for coupling two mating electrical connectors together

  • US 6,109,948 A
  • Filed: 07/29/1999
  • Issued: 08/29/2000
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/30/1999
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A locking device for securing first and second electrical connectors together, comprising:

  • a pair of first members each having a mounting post secured in the first connector and a head extending from the mounting post; and

    a pair of second members each having a retention portion secured in the second connector and a spring arm extending from the retention portion, each spring arm resiliently abutting against a periphery of associated head in opposite directions to securely engage the first members with the second members;

    wherein the spring arm of each second member forms an engaging portion at a free end thereof, the engaging portion defining a chamber for receiving the head of each first member;

    wherein the head is spherical and the engaging portion of each spring arm has a shape adapted for engaging with the head;

    wherein the engaging portion of each spring arm comprises a semi-bowl shaped portion;

    wherein the engaging portion of each spring arm spans an angle of approximately 100 to 130 degrees in a plane containing the two second members and the head comprises a front portion and a rear portion, the engaging portion bearing against at least the rear portion to prevent the head from disengaging from the engaging portion.

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