Patent ID: 6109948
Filing Date: 2000-08-29
Classification: H01R

Abstract:
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; anda 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.