Patent ID: 6036500
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: F16F,H01R

Abstract:
A connector system for connecting a strut rod to a source of electricity comprising:a strut rod having an end portion, said end portion comprising a distal end, a first electrical contact, and a second electrical contact; anda connector for connecting to said end portion, said connector comprising:power terminal means for connecting to a source of electricity and for contacting said first electrical contact;ground terminal means for connecting to the source of electricity and for contacting said second electrical contact;insert means for supporting said power and ground terminals;a connector shell having a first interior hollow that supportably receives therein said insert means, said connector shell having an upper end and an opposite lower end;lock ring means having a second interior hollow for receiving therein said end portion of said strut rod;connection means for rotatably connecting said lock ring to said connector shell, wherein said lock ring is rotatable relative to said connector shell between an unlocked position and a locked position;interlock means connected with said connector shell and said lock ring for selectively locking said lock ring onto said connector shell responsive to said lock ring being rotated from said unlocked position to said locked position;first seal means for sealing said upper end of said connector shell with respect to said power and ground terminal means;second seal means for sealing said lower end of said connector shell with respect to said end portion of said strut rod; andattachment means for attaching said connector to said end portion of said strut rod responsive to rotation of said lock ring from said unlocked position to said locked position;wherein when a predetermined portion of said end portion of said strut rod is received into said connector, said power terminal is electrically connected to said first electrical contact and said ground terminal is electrically connected to said second electrical contact.