Locking connector system

A locking connector system for releasably locking a first connector in mechanical engagement with a second connector. The locking connector system generally includes a first connector including a female coupler and a second connector including a male coupler, with the first and second connectors being adapted to mechanically connect to each other. The first connector includes an adjustable latch which selectively engages with a catch portion on the male coupler to lock the connectors together. The latch may be pressed downwardly, such as by use of a connected button, to release the latch from the catch portion and disconnect the connectors. The first connector is adapted to provide audible, visual, and tactile feedback to confirm when the latch engages with the catch portion.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable to this application.

Not applicable to this application.

BACKGROUND

Field

Example embodiments in general relate to a locking connector system for releasably locking a first connector in mechanical engagement with a second connector.

Related Art

Electrical connectors are commonly used for connecting power, data, and/or other electrical signals between two different components. Such electrical connectors have become ubiquitous with modern life. Common electrical connectors used daily by billions of people include power charging cables for smart phones. Typically, a male coupler which includes male electrical connectors is electrically connected to a female coupler which includes female electrical connectors. When the male electrical connectors are adequately engaged with corresponding female electrical connectors, an electrical connection is made between the first and second connectors.

Typical electrical connectors utilize both a mechanical and electrical connection to engage the connectors together. However, connectors which are only partially mechanically-engaged may not establish an electrical connection since any electrically conductive elements may not be in contact if the mechanical engagement of the two connectors is not completed. Further, typical electrical connectors are easily disconnected when engaged, which can lead to inadvertently disconnecting such connectors without realizing it. Locking the connectors together in a releasable manner may prevent such situations. Finally, typical electrical connectors do not provide any feedback to indicate that the connectors are mechanically engaged with each other.

SUMMARY

An example embodiment is directed to a locking connector system. The locking connector system includes a first connector including a female coupler and a second connector including a male coupler, with the first and second connectors being adapted to mechanically connect to each other. The first connector includes an adjustable latch which selectively engages with a catch portion on the male coupler to lock the connectors together. The latch may be pressed downwardly, such as by use of a connected button, to release the latch from the catch portion and disconnect the connectors. The first connector is adapted to provide audible, visual, and tactile feedback to confirm when the latch engages with the catch portion.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the embodiments of the locking connector system in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional embodiments of the locking connector system that will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the locking connector system in detail, it is to be understood that the locking connector system is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The locking connector system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An example locking connector system generally comprises a first connector20comprising a front end21, a rear end22, and a housing23, wherein the first connector20comprises a plurality of first electrically conductive elements44; a second connector60comprising a front end61and a rear end62, the second connector60comprising a plurality of second electrically conductive elements64, wherein the first connector20is adapted to be removably connected to the second connector60, wherein the second connector60comprises a flange75at or near the front end61of the second connector60, wherein the flange75defines a catch portion74; a latch50connected to the first connector20such that the latch50is movable with respect to the housing23, wherein the latch50is adjustable between a first position and a second position; and a bias member58connected to the latch50, wherein the latch50is biased towards the first position by the bias member58; wherein the latch50is adapted to engage with the catch portion74when the latch50is in the first position so as to lock the first connector20in mechanical engagement with the second connector60, wherein the latch50is adapted to disengage from the catch portion74when the latch50is in the second position so as to release the first connector20and the second connector60.

The first position of the latch50may be comprised of a raised position and the second position of the latch50may be comprised of a lowered position. The plurality of first electrically conductive elements44and the plurality of second electrically conductive elements64may be comprised of pins or sockets. The first connector20may comprise a female coupler40and the second connector60may comprise a male coupler70.

The latch50may comprise a central opening53, wherein the male coupler70is adapted to be inserted through the central opening53of the latch50when the first connector20is connected to the second connector60. The housing23of the first connector20may comprise a lower opening36, wherein a lower end52of the latch50extends into the lower opening36of the first connector20when the latch50is in the second position. The lower opening36may comprise a slot on the lower end of the housing23of the first connector20, wherein the lower end of the latch50is sized and shaped for extending into the slot when the latch50is in the second position. The latch50may be adapted to audibly click when the latch50engages with the catch portion74of the second connector60. The housing23may be adapted to reverberate when the latch50engages with the catch portion74of the second connector60.

The flange75may comprise an inclined surface such as a ramp79inclined upwardly towards the catch portion74. The latch50may comprise a lower end52including an inner lower edge55, wherein the inner lower edge55of the latch50is adapted to pass over the inclined surface of the flange75to engage with the catch portion74. The catch portion74may be comprised of a groove defined by the flange75.

A button59may be connected to an upper end52of the latch50, wherein the button59extends at least partially out of an upper end of the housing23. The bias member58may be connected between the upper end51of the latch50and the button59. The upper end51of the latch50may comprise a fastener47for connecting the button to the latch, wherein the bias member58is positioned around the fastener47. The button59may be adapted to be pressed downwardly to push the latch50into the second position. The bias member58may be connected between the latch50and the button59so as to bias the button59and the latch50towards the first position.

The upper end51of the latch50may comprise a first flange56a, a second flange56b, and a depressed portion57defined between the first flange56aand the second flange56b. The button59may be connected between the first flange56aand the second flange56b, with the bias member58being positioned within the depressed portion56of the latch50. The bias member58may be comprised of a wide range of types of bias members such as springs including but not limited to a coil spring, a beam spring, a wave spring, and a dome spring. The beam spring may comprise a plastic beam spring.

The latch50may comprise an upper end51and a lower end52, wherein the upper end51of the latch50is flat and wherein the lower end52of the latch50is curved. The lower end52of the latch50may comprise an inner lower edge55, wherein the inner lower edge55of the latch50is adapted to engage within the catch portion74of the second connector60when the first connector20is connected to the second connector60, wherein the flange75of the second connector60is adapted to prevent the first connector20from being disconnected from the second connector60when the inner lower edge55of the latch50is engaged within the catch portion74of the second connector60.

The housing23may comprise a lower opening36for providing both a visual and tactile indicator of whether the latch50is in the first position or the second position, wherein the latch50is visible within the lower opening36of the housing23when the latch50is not in the first position and wherein the latch50is not visible within the lower opening36of the housing23when the latch50is in the first position. The latch50can be felt within the lower opening36of the housing23when the latch50is not in the first position and the latch cannot be felt within the lower opening36of the housing23when the latch50is in the first position.

Another exemplary embodiment of a locking connector system10may comprise34a first connector20comprising a front end21, a rear end22, and a housing23, wherein the first connector20comprises a plurality of first electrically conductive elements44, wherein the housing23comprises an upper side opening85aand a lower side opening86a; a second connector60comprising a front end61and a rear end62, the second connector60comprising a plurality of second electrically conductive elements64, wherein the first connector20is adapted to be removably connected to the second connector60, wherein the second connector60comprises a catch portion74; a latch50connected to the first connector20such that the latch50is movable with respect to the housing23, wherein the latch50is adjustable between a first position and a second position, wherein the latch50comprises a projection80a, wherein the projection80ais adapted to engage with the upper side opening85aof the first connector20when the latch50is in the first position, wherein the projection80ais adapted to engage with the lower side opening86aof the first connector20when the latch is in the second position; wherein the latch50is adapted to engage with the catch portion74when the latch50is in the second position so as to lock the first connector20in mechanical engagement with the second connector60, wherein the latch50is adapted to disengage from the catch portion74when the latch50is in the first position so as to release the first connector20and the second connector60. The first position may be comprised of a raised position and the second position may be comprised of a lowered position.

FIG. 1illustrates an exemplary first connector20comprising a female coupler40. The first connector20comprises a housing23having a front portion24and a rear portion25. A cable38enclosing a plurality of wires39is connected to or enters the rear portion25of the first connector20via a rear opening32. A front opening30is shown providing access to a plurality of first electrically conductive elements44comprising sockets for receiving pins. The first electrically conductive elements44are illustrated as being recessed within the housing23, though in some embodiments the first electrically conductive elements44may be flush with the front end21of the first connector20rather than being recessed.

FIG. 2illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a first connector20with the housing23being split between its front portion24and its rear portion25. The cable38is shown with a plurality of wires39which enter the rear portion25of the housing23via the rear opening32. A pin insert42comprising a plurality of openings43is positioned to straddle both the front and rear portions24,25of the housing23. In some embodiments, the pin insert42may be positioned entirely in the front portion24or the rear portion25of the housing23.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 2, the front portion24of the housing23comprises a female coupler44adapted to receive a corresponding male coupler70of a second connector60. The female coupler44is illustrated as comprising a substantially cylindrical member having a flattened upper end which may be matingly engaged with the rear portion25of the housing23. The female coupler44comprises a front opening30adapted to matingly receive the male coupler70of the second connector60.

A latch50is shown inFIG. 2which, when the locking connector system10is assembled, is movably positioned within the female coupler40. The latch50includes a pair of flanges56a,56bwhich are adapted to connect to a button59, with a bias member58being connected to the latch50to bias the latch50upwardly.

FIGS. 1-8illustrate an exemplary first connector20adapted for use with the locking connector system10. As shown inFIG. 1, the first connector20may comprise a front end21, a rear end22, and a housing23. The housing23includes a front portion24which includes the front end21and a rear portion25which includes the rear end22. The housing23may comprise a single, unitary structure such as molded plastic or may comprise interconnected portions24,25. For example, the front portion24may be removably connected to the rear portion25. In other embodiments, the front and rear portions24,25may be fixedly connected or may be integrally formed. The housing23will generally comprise of insulating material such as plastics or the like.

The shape, size, and configuration of the housing23will vary in different embodiments to suit different types of connectors20and electrically conductive elements44. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-5, the housing23includes ergonomic features to aid in gripping, such as a depressed portion on the upper end of the rear portion25of the housing23as shown inFIG. 1. The front portion24of the housing23may comprise a coupler such as a female coupler40. The front portion24of the housing23will generally be shaped so as to engage with an opposing second connector60.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-5, the front portion24of the housing23comprises a flat upper end and a curved lower end so as to prevent rotation of the connectors20,60when coupled together. Such a configuration will also ensure that the connectors20,60are properly oriented when coupled together.

The first connector20as illustrated inFIG. 1comprises a female coupler40having a front opening30adapted to receive a corresponding male coupler70of a second connector60. The shape, size, and configuration of the front opening30of the first connector20may vary in different embodiments to suit different types of opposing second connectors60. The front opening30of the first connector20will generally be shaped and sized so as to snugly receive the male coupler70of the second connector60. The front opening30of the first connector20is shown inFIGS. 1-5as comprising a flat upper end and a curved lower end to ensure proper orientation and prevent rotation of the connectors20,30when connected together.

As best shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the rear portion25of the first connector20may be configured to receive or connect to a cable38. The cable38may include one or more electrical conduits39such as electrical wires or the like adapted to transmit electrical power or signals. The one or more electrical conduits39are generally electrically connected, either directly or indirectly, to the first electrically conductive elements44. The housing23of the first connector20may include a rear opening32such as shown inFIG. 2which is configured to receive the cable38and/or electrical conduit(s)39.

As shown inFIG. 2, the housing23of the first connector20may comprise an upper opening34to accommodate an adjustable latch50, with the adjustable latch50being movable with respect to the housing23. The upper opening34may comprise various shapes and sizes sufficient to allow the latch50to be pressed downward by a user, such as by use of a button59as discussed below. The upper opening34may comprise a depression, slot, cavity, or the like in which the latch50may be movable secured.

As shown inFIGS. 1-5, the housing23may include a button59which is utilized to depress the latch50. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 1, the button59is positioned within the upper opening34of the housing23. In such an embodiment, the button59is sized and shaped so as to snugly fit within the upper opening34of the first connector20.

It should be appreciated, however, that the button59may comprise various shapes, sizes, and configuration. For example, the button59could be positioned at various other locations on the housing23, such as on the lower end or either side. Further, the button59may fully extend out from the housing23or may be partially positioned within the housing23when not depressed. Further, the button59is illustrated as being pushed down to adjust the latch50. In other embodiments, the button59may comprise a switch or the like which is not depressed vertically but instead adjusted in other manners. The button59may include ergonomic or gripping features such as ribs.

As shown inFIGS. 8, 21A, and 21B, the housing23may include a lower opening36at its lower end near the front end21of the first connector20. The lower opening36may function as an indicator of whether the latch50is in its lowered or raised position. The shape, size, and positioning of the lower opening36may vary in different embodiments. While the figures illustrate that the lower opening36is comprised of a curved rectangular shape, it should be appreciated that other shapes such as circular, triangular, polygonal, or the like may be utilized. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the lower opening36comprises a rectangular window into which the lower end52of the latch50will extend when the latch50is in its lowered position. The lower opening36may in some embodiments be positioned at other locations on the housing23. For example, the lower opening36could in some embodiments be positioned on a side of the housing23.

The lower opening36primarily functions to provide an easy-to-view indication of whether the latch50is in it's lowered (engaged) or raised (disengaged) position. When in the lowered position, the lower end52of the latch50will at least partially fill the lower opening36such as shown inFIG. 21A. When in the raised position, the lower end52of the latch50will not be positioned in the lower opening36such as shown inFIG. 21B. In this manner, an operator may quickly ascertain whether the latch50is engaged or not.

Continuing to referenceFIGS. 1-8, it can be seen that the first connector20in the illustrated exemplary embodiment is shown as comprising a female coupler40. It should be appreciated, however, that in some embodiments the first connector20may comprise a male coupler70, with the second connector50comprising the female coupler40. In either case, the first and second connectors20,50are adapted to mechanically engage with each other via insertion and retention of a male coupler70within a female coupler40.

As shown inFIGS. 15-17, the first connector20may comprise a female coupler40adapted to receive a corresponding male coupler70on a second connector60. The female coupler40will generally form part of the housing23, but may in some embodiments comprise a discrete structure which is connected to the housing23. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1, the housing23comprises a front portion24and a rear portion25, with the front portion24of the housing23comprising the female coupler40.

As shown inFIG. 1, the female coupler40may comprise a front opening30adapted to receive the male coupler70of the second connector60. The front opening30may comprise various shapes and sizes so long as the front opening30is adapted to receive the male coupler70of the second connector60. In the exemplary embodiment in the figures, the front opening30comprises a substantially cylindrical shape having a flattened top and a rounded/curved bottom. Such a shape corresponds with the flat top76and round bottom77of the male coupler70as discussed in more detail below.

The female coupler40may comprise a tubular member which is either integrated with or connected to the housing23of the first connector20. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the female coupler40comprises a tubular member which forms the front portion24of the housing23. In such an embodiment, the front portion24of the housing23comprising the female coupler40may be removably or fixedly connected to the rear portion25of the housing23, such as through use of mating engagement, fasteners, adhesives, or the like. In other embodiments, the housing23may be integrally formed with the female coupler40.

As shown inFIG. 1, the female coupler40is generally positioned at or near the front end21of the first connector20. The female coupler40is adapted to receive the corresponding male coupler70which is positioned at or near the front end61of the second connector60. The male and female couplers40,70may frictionally engage or may not contact each other directly but instead rely entirely upon the latch50for mechanical engagement.

As shown inFIGS. 1-5 and 8, the first connector20generally comprises a plurality of first electrically conductive elements44. The first electrically conductive elements40may comprise pins, sockets, or other types of electrically conductive contacts. Generally, the first electrically conductive elements44of the first connector20are adapted to contact corresponding second electrically conductive elements64on the second connector60so as to electrically connect the first connector20to the second connector60.

The exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 8illustrates usage of a plurality of first electrically conductive elements44being comprised of electrical receivers such as sockets or the like adapted to receive corresponding second electrically conductive elements64being comprised of electrical connectors such as pins or the like. As shown inFIG. 2, the first connector20may thus comprise a pin insert42which includes a plurality of pin openings43each adapted to receive one of the plurality of second electrically conductive elements64of the second connector60.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 2, it can be seen that the pin insert42comprises a cylindrical member having a plurality of openings43extending from its front end to its rear end. Each of the wires39from the cable38may extend through the rear end of the pin insert42within one of the plurality of openings43of the pin insert42. The shape, size, and configuration of the pin insert42may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the pin insert42may be integrally formed with the housing23. In other embodiments, the pin insert42may be inserted within the cavity27of the housing23.

Each of the plurality of openings43of the pin insert42may include a first electrically conductive element44positioned therein such that, when a second electrically conductive element64such as a pin is inserted within an opening43of the pin insert42, the second electrically conductive element64is inserted within a first electrically conductive element44so as to electrically connect the second electrically conductive element64to the first electrically conductive element44.

The orientation, positioning, and number of first electrically conductive elements44present in the pin insert42may vary in different embodiments. The figures illustrate the usage of five first electrically conductive elements44arranged in a pentagram-shaped orientation. In other embodiments, the electrically conductive elements44may be arranged in various other orientations for different types of connectors20,60, such as but not limited to circular-shaped, rectangular-shaped, polygonal-shaped, and other shaped orientations of first electrically conductive elements44.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 2-5, the pin insert42comprises a cylindrical insulating member such as a pin plug having a plurality of openings43extending through the length of the pin insert42between its first and second ends. The figures illustrate the usage of five openings43in the pin insert42, with each of the five openings43being adapted to receive a first electrical conductive element44such as a conductive socket.

While the figures illustrate the usage of five openings43arranged in a pentagon-shape orientation, it should be appreciated that more or less openings43may be utilized in various orientations and arrangements. Similarly, the positioning and orientation of the openings43may vary to accommodate different types of first electrically conductive elements44. For example, the openings43may be oriented in a circular, rectangular, or polygonal orientation in some embodiments.

As shown inFIGS. 4-7, the locking connector system10may comprise a latch50which is utilized to selectively lock the first connector20in mechanical engagement with the second connector60. The latch50may be movably connected to the first connector20, with the second connector60comprising a catch portion74to which the latch50may be engaged. When the latch50is so engaged, adjustment of the latch50, such as by moving the latch50downwardly, may disengage the latch50so that the first connector20may be mechanically disengaged from the second connector60.

As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, the latch50will generally be movably positioned or connected to the first connector20. In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the latch50is movably connected within the cavity27of the housing23of the first connector20. As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, the latch50may be positioned within the housing23so as to extend around the first electrically conductive elements44.

An exemplary embodiment of a latch50for use with the locking connector system10is shown inFIG. 7. As shown, the latch50comprises an upper end51, a lower end52, and a central opening53defined between the upper and lower ends51,52. A button59may be positioned on the upper end51of the latch50such that, when the button59is pressed downwardly, the latch50similarly moves downwardly within the housing23. The bias member58may be connected between the upper end51of the latch50and the button59such that, when the button59is released, both the button and the latch50move upwardly.

The upper end51of the latch50may comprise a flat outer upper edge54which is horizontal or substantially horizontal such as shown inFIG. 7. The bias member58may be positioned against the outer upper edge54of the latch50. In the exemplary embodiments shown inFIG. 7, the outer upper edge54of the latch50comprises a pair of flanges56a,56bwhich extend upwardly from the upper end51of the latch50, with the first flange56abeing positioned at or near the first side of the upper edge54of the latch50and the second flange56bbeing positioned at or near the second side of the upper edge54of the latch50.

The upper distal ends of the flanges56a,56bmay include locking features to which the button59may be connected such as shown inFIGS. 20B and 20C. In an alternate embodiment, the outer upper edge54of the latch50may instead comprise a fastener47such as a threaded bolt or other type of projection to which the button59may be connected such as shown inFIG. 20B. In such an embodiment, the bias member58may be positioned around the fastener47.

With reference toFIG. 7, it can be seen that the lower end52of the latch50may comprise an inner lower edge55which is curved inwardly and faces upwardly towards the central opening53. The inner lower edge55may include a tapered face such as shown inFIG. 7, with the tapered face being configured to aid the latch50in traversing over the ramp79when being connected.

The inner lower edge55of the latch50is comprised of the edge of the latch50facing the central opening53as best shown inFIG. 7. The inner lower edge55of the latch50may be adapted to engage within the catch portion74of the male coupler70as discussed in more detail below. The latch50may thus include a central opening53into which the male coupler70will extend when the first and second connectors20,60are mechanically coupled. The size and shape of the central opening53may vary depending on the size and shape of the male coupler70, with the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 7illustrating an opening with a flat upper edge and a curved lower edge.

When the first and second connectors20,60are mechanically engaged, the male coupler70extends through the central opening53of the latch50. The inner lower edge55of the latch50will engage with the catch portion74of the male coupler70and remain in such a position until the latch50is adjusted downwardly to release the inner lower edge55of the latch50from the catch portion74such that the inner lower edge55of the latch50may pass over the flange75of the male coupler70and the male coupler70may be removed from within the central opening53.

As shown throughout the figures, the latch50may include a bias member58which is connected between the latch50and the button59. The bias member58functions to link the button59and the latch50such that, when the button59is depressed, the latch50slides or otherwise moves downwardly with the button59. In this manner, when the button59is pressed down, the latch50is pressed down. When the button59is released, the bias member58will push the button59back upwardly, with the latch50similarly adjusting upwardly.

A wide range of bias members58may be utilized with the latch50.FIGS. 22A, 22B, 22C, and 22Dillustrate exemplary embodiments of bias members58for use with the latch50, though it should be appreciated that such exemplary embodiments are merely for illustrative purposes and thus should not be construed as limiting in scope. The shape, size, and type of bias member58used may vary in different embodiments.

FIG. 22Aillustrates the bias member58being comprised of a standard compression spring including a cylindrical coil of spring. Such an embodiment is ideal for the embodiment of the locking connector system10shown inFIG. 20Bin which the coil spring may be positioned around the fastener47of the latch50.FIG. 22Billustrates the bias member58being comprised of a dome spring.FIG. 22Cillustrates the bias member58being comprised of a wave spring.FIG. 22Dillustrates the bias member58being comprised of a plastic beam spring.

The manner in which the latch50, button59, and bias member58are interconnected may vary in different embodiments.FIG. 20Aillustrates an embodiment in which the latch50and button59are integrally formed, with the bias member58being secured between the upper edge54of the latch50and the button59.

FIG. 20Billustrates an embodiment in which the upper edge54on the upper end51of the latch50includes a fastener47such as a bolt, nut, or screw. The button59is connected at its lower end to the upper end of the fastener47, such as by frictional or threaded engagement. The bias member58is positioned to surround the fastener47and be sandwiched between the upper edge54of the latch50and the lower end of the button59.

FIG. 20Cillustrates an embodiment in which the upper edge54of the upper end51of the latch50includes a pair of flanges56a,56bwhich serve as mounting points for the button59. A first flange56ais shown on a first side of the upper edge54of the upper end51of the latch50and a second flange56bis shown on a second side of the upper edge54of the upper end51of the latch50. The first and second flanges56a,56bmay comprise locking features such as hooks or other projections adapted to engage to the lower end of the button59. The bias member58may be positioned in the depressed portion57defined between the flanges56a,56b.

The manner in which the latch50is adjusted may also vary in different embodiments. Generally, the latch50is movably positioned or connected within the housing23of the first connector20. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the latch50is movable between a first, raised position and a second, lowered position. In other embodiments, the latch50may be movable in other directions or in other manners.

The latch50is generally adjusted by pressing down on the button59which extends out of the upper opening34of the housing23of the first connector20. Since the latch50is connected to the button59, when the button59is pressed downwardly, the latch50similarly moves downwardly within the cavity23of the housing23.

The bias member58, which is positioned between the upper end51of the latch50and the button59, also aids in forcing the latch50downwardly when the button59is pressed downwardly. The button59also functions to return the button59, and by extension the latch50, to its original, raised position absent the application of force. In other words, when the button59is released by the operator, both the button59and the latch50will move upwardly to their original, resting positions.

The latch50functions by selectively engaging with the male coupler70to releasably lock the first connector20in mechanical engagement with the second connector60. As shown inFIG. 4, the latch50remains in its resting position absent application of any force. When the male coupler70is inserted within the female coupler40, the male coupler70will be inserted through the central opening53of the latch50.

The inner lower edge55of the latch50will contact the engagement portion78of the male coupler70, with the latch50passing over the ramp79of the engagement portion78. When passing over the ramp79and engagement portion78of the male coupler70, the latch50will move or adjust upwardly slightly within the cavity27of the housing23such that the latch50may pass over the engagement portion78. The latch50will then engage within the catch portion74of the male coupler70and be locked in such a position by the flange75. Thus, pulling backwardly on the first connector20will not disengage the first connector20from the second connector60, as the lower end52of the latch50will catch upon the flange75.

To disengage the latch50, the button59is first pressed downwardly, which will push the latch50downwardly such that the lower end52of the latch50disengages from within the catch portion74of the male coupler70. The latch50may then slide over the flange75to be released from engagement with the male coupler70. In this manner, the first connector20may be disconnected from the second connector60. Releasing the button59will return both the button59and the latch50to their original, raised positions due to action of the bias member58.

As shown inFIGS. 21A and 21B, the first connector20may include a lower opening56which functions as both a visual and tactile indicator to enable an operator to easily be able to determine whether the latch50is in its raised or lowered position by simply viewing the housing23of the first connector20. The lower opening56may comprise a window or other type of opening formed in the lower end of the housing23. The shape, size, and configuration of the lower opening56may vary and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures.

An operator may utilize the lower opening36of the housing23of the first connector20as both a visual and tactile indicator of the status of the latch50. When the latch50is in its raised position, the latch50will either not extend into the lower opening36of the housing23at all, or the latch50will only partially extend into the lower opening36of the housing23. When the latch50is in its lowered position, the latch50will be lowered so as to fill at least a majority of the lower opening36, with some embodiments utilizing a latch50which may be lowered to be flush with, or even extend past, the lower opening36of the housing23.

To check the status of the latch50, the operator of the locking connector system10may view the lower opening36of the housing23. The positioning of the latch50within the lower opening36of the housing23will be indicative of its position. If the operator sees that the latch50has been lowered within the lower opening36so as to partially or completely fill the lower opening36, the operator will recognize that the latch50is not in its raised position and thus may not be engaged within the catch portion74of the second connector60.

In some situations, it may be difficult to view the lower opening36of the housing23when the connectors20,60are engaged. In such situations, an operator need only run his or her finger over the lower opening36of the housing23to determine the position of the latch50. If the operator can feel the lower end51of the latch50within the lower opening36of the housing23, the operator can ascertain that the latch50is in its lowered position. If the operator cannot feel the lower end51of the latch50within the lower opening36of the housing23, the operator can ascertain that the latch50is in its raised position.

FIG. 21Aillustrates the first connector20with the latch50and button59in the raised position. As can be seen, the lower end52of the latch50is only partially visible within the lower opening36of the housing23, with the lower opening36being only partially filled by the lower end52of the latch50. In some embodiments, the latch50may not be visible at all in the lower opening36when the latch50is in its raised position.

FIG. 21Billustrates the first connector20with the latch50and button59pressed down into the lowered position. As can be seen the lower end52of the latch50is positioned to fill the lower opening36of the housing23. In some embodiments, the lower end52of the latch50may extend past the lower end of the lower opening36of the housing23when depressed. In other embodiments, the lower end52of the latch50may only partially extend into the lower opening36of the housing23when depressed. In either case, an operator need only view the lower opening36of the housing23to determine quickly whether the latch50is in its raised or lowered position.

The lower opening36of the housing23provides visual feedback to confirm for the operator that the latch50has returned fully to its original position when the button59is released. By viewing the lower opening36, an operator may easily ascertain whether the button59and latch50have fully returned to their original position, or whether they have become caught at a mid-point.

The latch50may also provide both tactile and audible feedback when returning to its original, raised position. The tactile feedback is provided when the latch50snaps onto the male coupler70, which will provide mechanical, tactile feedback in the force of a tapping force which resonates through the housing23of the first connector20. The tapping force may be felt by an operator holding the housing23as a click or the like.

At the same time, an audible click will be emitted when the latch50snaps onto the male coupler70which provides audible feedback for the operator. The sound of the click will indicate that the latch50is fully engaged. The absence of such a click will indicate a fault or other malfunctions, such as the latch50not fully returning to its original position to engage with the male coupler70.

By using a combination of audible and tactile feedback from the latch50engaging with the catch portion74of the second connector60and visual and tactile feedback from the lower opening36, the locking connector system10enables an operator to ensure that the latch50is fully engaged with the male coupler70when the first and second connectors20,60are mechanically engaged. Such a feature prevents operators from walking away from connectors20,60that are not fully mechanically engaged. In this manner, partial mechanical connections which may result in the premature or unwanted disengagement of the mechanical connection20,60between the first and second connectors20,60may be quickly recognized by the operator and fixed accordingly.

FIGS. 9-14illustrate an exemplary second connector60comprising a male coupler70. The second connector60comprises housing63having a front end61and a rear end62. The rear end62of the housing63may be connected to a component12such as an electrical device. Such an electrical device may comprise, without limitation, computer systems, tablet computers, peripheral accessories such as printers, scanners, and the like, monitors, medical devices, power connectors, mobile phones, and the like. In other embodiments, the housing63may be connected instead to a wall to function as a wall socket. In yet other embodiments, the rear end62of the housing63of the second connector70may be connected to a cable38.

As shown inFIGS. 9 and 12-14, the second connector60may comprise a housing63including a male coupler70which is adapted to engage within the corresponding female coupler40of the first connector20. The male coupler70is generally positioned at the front end61of the second connector60, with the rear end62of the second connector60being connected to a component12such as an electrical device, a wall, or a cable38. In any case, a plurality of wires39will generally enter the housing63via its rear end62to connect to a plurality of second electrically conductive elements64.

FIG. 11illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a plurality of second electrically conductive elements64. In such an embodiment, each of the second electrically conductive elements64is comprised of a pin. It should be appreciated, however, that the second electrically conductive elements64may comprise various types of electrical contacts, such as but not limited to pins, sockets, electrodes, or the like.

Generally, the second electrically conductive elements64on the second connector60are adapted to contact corresponding first electrically conductive elements44of the first connector20so as to electrically connect the first connector20to the second connector60. The exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 10illustrates usage of a plurality of second electrically conductive elements64being comprised of electrical connectors such as pins or the like adapted to engage within corresponding first electrically conductive elements44being comprised of electrical receivers such as sockets or the like.

The second electrically conductive elements64may be internal or external with respect to the housing63of the second connector60. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the second electrically conductive elements64are recessed within the front opening71of the male coupler70of the second connector60. However, in some embodiments, the second electrically conductive elements64may instead be external, extending outwardly from the front end61of the second connector60. In other embodiments, the second electrically conductive elements64may be partially within the housing63and partially external to the housing63.

FIG. 11illustrates a connector hub65to which the second electrically conductive elements64may be connected, with the connector hub65being positioned within the housing63of the second connector60. The connector hub65may comprise an insulating base having a plurality of pin openings67which extend between the front end and rear end of the connector hub65. The rear end of the pin openings67may receive wires39which are inserted within the connector hub65from its rear end to connect within the pin openings67with corresponding second electrically conductive elements64. A retainer68such as a snapping feature may be connected to the rear end of the connector hub65to secure the connector hub65to the housing63. The retainer68may include projections69which aid in snapping the retainer to the connector hub65such as shown inFIG. 11.

As shown inFIGS. 9 and 12-14, the second connector60may comprise a male coupler70which is adapted to engage within the latch50and the female coupler40of the first connector20. The shape, size, and configuration of the male coupler70may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the male coupler70comprises a projecting extension having a front end61and a rear end62. The male coupler70may include a base73comprising a flange or the like which serves as a stopper to prevent over-insertion of the male coupler70. The rear end62of the male coupler70may include a mount66which is used to secure the male coupler70and housing63to a component12, wall, or the like.

As shown inFIG. 9, the male coupler70may comprise a cylindrical or other-shaped extension having a catch portion74comprised of a depressed band or groove which surrounds the male coupler70. A flange75is positioned adjacent to the catch portion74, with the catch portion74being defined between the flange75and the male coupler70body. The catch portion74is sized and shaped so as to receive and releasably engage the latch50as discussed herein. When engaged, the lower end52of the latch50rests within the catch portion74of the male coupler70and is prevented from disengagement by the flange75. Only by adjusting the latch50downwardly to disengage the latch50from the catch portion74and flange75may the male coupler70be released from within the female coupler40.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 9, it can be seen that the male coupler70comprises an upper edge76and a lower edge77. The upper edge76of the male coupler70is shown as comprising a flat edge. The lower edge77of the male coupler70is shown as comprising an outwardly curved edge. The lower edge77of the male coupler70comprises an engagement portion78over which the inner lower edge55of the latch55will pass over when the latch50is being engaged over the catch portion74of the male coupler70. The engagement portion78may comprise a ramp79which guides the latch50over the flange75and engagement portion78to engage within the catch portion74of the male coupler70as discussed herein.

As shown inFIG. 9, the male coupler70may comprise a front opening71at or near its front end61which is adapted to receive the female coupler40of the first connector20. The shape and size of the front opening71may vary so as to match with the shape and size of the pin insert42of the female coupler40such that the pin insert42may snugly fit within the front opening71so that the electrically conductive elements44,64may be electrically connected. The male coupler70may also include a rear opening72at its rear end62for receiving the wires39.

E. Operation of Preferred Embodiment.

In use, the locking connector system10is adapted to releasably lock the first and second connectors20,60in mechanical, mated engagement when the male coupler70of the second connector60is inserted within the female coupler40of the first connector20. The first connector20utilizes a latch50which engages with a catch portion74of the male coupler70and prevents premature disengagement through use a flange75. The connectors20,60may be released from being locked to mechanically disengage by depressing the button59on the first connector20, which moves the latch50such that the latch50may be removed from around the male coupler70over the flange75.

To ensure that operators are aware of whether the connectors20,60are locked or released, the first connector20may provide multiple types of feedback to indicate that the connectors20,60are locked together. Though the connectors20,60may appear to be coupled, there is the possibility that the latch50has not fully engaged with the catch portion74which would prevent the connectors20,60from being locked. It is only when the latch50has passed over the flange75and snapped onto the catch portion74that the connectors20,60are locked together. If the latch50does not fully pass over the flange75, the latch50will not engage with the catch portion74and the connectors20,60, though they may appear to be connected, will not be locked together.

A tactile feedback is provided in the form of a snapping force which is imparted to the housing23when the latch50snaps onto the male coupler70. The operator can feel when the latch50snaps onto the catch portion74of the second connector60. An audible feedback is provided in the form of a clicking sound which is audible when the latch50snaps onto the male coupler70. The operator can hear when the latch50snaps onto the catch portion74of the second connector60.

The lower opening36of the housing23of the first connector20may also provide both tactile and visual feedback to indicate that the connectors20,60are locked together. The latch50will adjust or move within the lower opening36when the latch50is moved upwardly or downwardly. When the latch50is pushed downwardly, such as when passing over the flange75, the lower end51of the latch50will advance within the lower opening36of the housing23of the first connector20so as to either substantially fill the lower opening36, completely fill the lower opening36, or extend past the lower opening36.

The operator can view the lower opening36to easily determine the status of the latch50. If the latch50is visible as covering at least a substantial portion of the lower opening36, it can be ascertained that the latch50has not returned to its raised position and thus the lower end51of the latch50may not have passed over the flange75. If the latch50is visible as being retracted from the lower opening36such that the lower end51of the latch50is either only partially within the lower opening36, or not within the lower opening36at all, it can be ascertained that the latch50has returned to its original, raised position and thus the lower end51of the latch50has passed over the flange75and engaged within the catch portion74of the male coupler70.

The operator can also feel the lower opening36to easily determine the status of the latch50. Such a feature may be desirable in situations where the lower opening36of the housing23of the first connector20is not easily viewed, such as due to obstructions, tight spaces, or the like. The operator can simply touch the lower opening36. If the operator can feel the lower end51of the latch50substantially filling the lower opening36, flush with the lower opening36, or extending past the lower opening36, the operator can ascertain that the latch50is not in its original, raised position. If the operator cannot feel the lower end51of the latch50within the lower opening36, the operator can ascertain that the latch50has returned to its original, raised position.

The first connector20may provide audible feedback in the form of the snapping sound which occurs when the latch50snaps onto the male coupler70. The first connector20may also provide visible feedback by use of the lower opening36in the housing23which functions as a window to view the position of the latch50, with the lower end52of the latch50filling the lower opening36when depressed. When the lower opening36is empty, or the latch50does not fill the lower opening36, the operator can be assured that the latch50is in its raised, original position.

FIGS. 15-17illustrate the locking connector system10in use. InFIG. 15, it can be seen that the first connector20is aligned for connection to the second connector60, with the first connector20being connected to a cable38and the second connector60being connected to a component12such as an electrical device. The flat upper edge76of the male coupler70will ensure proper orientation of the first connector20before insertion over the second connector60and prevent rotation when they are connected together. With the first connector20aligned as shown inFIG. 15, the first connector20need only be advanced forward to mechanically engage with the second connector60.

FIG. 16illustrates the first connector20having been connected to the second connector60. In this view, the male coupler70of the second connector60has been inserted within the front opening30of the female coupler40of the first connector20. In doing so, the latch50has been pushed over the engagement portion78and ramp79of the male coupler70to seat within the catch portion74of the male coupler70.

As can be seen, the button59(and underlying latch50) is in the raised, original position. The latch50is engaged within the catch portion74such that the first connector20cannot be pulled away from mechanical engagement with the second connector60due to the flange75blocking retraction of the latch50without the latch50being first pushed downwardly to allow the latch50to be removed from around the male coupler70.

FIG. 17illustrates the first connector20being disconnected from the second connector60. In this figure, the button59has been depressed its lowered position. With the button59depressed, the latch50is similarly adjusted downwardly so that the inner lower edge55of the latch50may pass over the flange75. This allows the first connector20to be disengaged and retracted from the second connector60. Upon releasing the button59, both the button59and the latch50are returned to their original, raised position by the bias member58.

FIGS. 18A, 18B, and 19illustrate a sectional view of the interior of both the first and second connectors20,60in use.FIG. 18Aillustrates the first connector20in the process of being connected to the second connector60. More specifically,FIG. 18Aillustrates the moment when the latch50passes over the engagement portion78of the male coupler70just prior to engaging with the catch portion74of the male coupler70.

The inner lower edge55of the latch50includes a tapered face to assist with the latch50passing under the engagement portion78of the male coupler70. The inner lower edge55of the latch50passes over the ramp79to snap into the catch portion74of the male coupler70and be retained (locked) in engagement with the catch portion74by the flange75, which prevents the latch50from decoupling with the male coupler70absent being adjusted vertically to pass over the flange75.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 18A, it can be seen that both the button59and latch50are in the lowered position. As the latch50passes over the engagement portion78, the button59and latch50will both be naturally forced downwardly. There will be no need to press the button59when connecting the first and second connectors20,60together. The ramp79on the engagement portion78guides the lower inner edge55of the latch50over the flange75to snap into the catch portion74. Since there the ramp79is oriented only in one direction, the ramp79will not allow the latch50to be retracted back over the flange75without the latch50being lowered by the button59.

FIG. 18Billustrates the first connector20locked in mechanical engagement with the second connector60. In this view, it can be seen that the male coupler70of the second connector60has been inserted into the female coupler40of the first connector20. The latch50is now shown engaged within the catch portion74of the male coupler70, with the flange75being positioned to prevent retraction of the latch50without first lowering the latch50to pass over the flange75.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 18B, it can be seen that the first and second connectors20,60are electrically connected to each other. More specifically, it can be seen that the second electrically conductive elements64of the second connector60are inserted within the first electrically conductive elements44of the first connector40. In this manner, the first and second connectors20,60are electrically connected to each other.

As can be seen, the button59and latch50are in their raised, original position and the bias member58is extended. The user may quickly ascertain the position of the latch50by viewing the lower opening36of the housing23of the first connector20, which functions as a window to view the position of the latch50. As the latch50does not fill the lower opening36, the latch50is identifiable as being in the raised position.

When the latch50snaps into the catch portion74of the male coupler70, the operator of the locking connector system10will provide audible, visual, and tactile feedback to confirm that the first and second connectors20,60are locked in mechanical engagement. The latch50will be pushed over the ramp79to snap into the catch portion74, with an audible click being heard at the moment that the latch50contacts the catch portion74. The contact between the latch50and the catch portion74will also reverberate through the housing23, providing tactile feedback for the operator who will feel the latch50snapping into place. If the operator neither hears nor feels the latch50snapping into the catch portion74, it can be ascertained that the latch50did not engage within the catch portion74and thus the connectors20,60are not locked in mechanical engagement.

The status of the latch50can be viewed through the lower opening36of the housing23of the first connector20to provide visual feedback that the latch50is fully engaged within the catch portion74. If the latch50is filling the lower opening36, it can be ascertained that the latch50has not fully engaged within the catch portion74and thus the connectors20,60are not fully locked. This may occur, for example, when the connectors20,60are not pushed together sufficiently to extend the latch50over the engagement portion78and into the catch portion74.

FIG. 19illustrates the first connector20and second connector60being mechanically disengaged and unlocked by pressing the button59and retracting the first connector20from the second connector60by pulling on the first connector20. As can be seen, the button59has been pushed down. When the button59is pushed down, the latch50is similarly forced downwardly, which allows the latch50to pass over the flange75and be disengaged from the catch portion74. An operator may confirm the positioning of the latch50by viewing the lower opening36of the first connector20, which in this view is filled by the lower end52of the latch50indicating that the latch50is in its lowered position.

After the latch50has passed over the flange75, the button59may be released. The bias member58will push the button59upwardly to its original position. The latch50, which is connected to the button59, will similarly be raised to its original position. The first and second connectors20,60may then be completely disconnected.

FIGS. 23-31illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the locking connector system10in which the latch50is manually adjusted between a latched position and an unlatched position. Such an embodiment of the locking connector system10may omit the use of a bias member58, with the latch50remaining in either the latched position or the unlatched position absent application of force by the user.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 22-31, the latch50may be engaged so as to lock the connectors20,60when the latch50is in the lowered position such as shown inFIGS. 23, 25, and 28-30and the latch50may be disengaged so as to unlock the connectors20,60when the latch50is in the raised position such as shown inFIG. 27. It should be appreciated, however, that in some embodiments the opposite configuration may be utilized, with the latch50being disengaged in the raised position and engaged in the lowered position.

FIG. 31illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a latch50for use with a manually-adjusted embodiment of a locking connector system10. The latch50comprises a central opening53including an inner upper edge88and an inner lower edge55. The central opening53is shaped such that the male coupler70may extend through the latch50. The inner lower edge55is illustrated as comprising an upwardly-curved edge with a substantial U-shape.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 31, the outer upper edge54of the latch50is shown as comprising a pair of flanges56a,56bfor use in connecting the button59to the upper end51of the latch50. It should be appreciated that the button59may be connected to the latch50in various other methods, such as by use of a fastener47or integral formation as discussed previously.

An engagement portion78extends downwardly from the inner upper edge88of the latch50so as to selectively engage with the catch portion74of the male coupler70of the second connector60. The catch portion74of the male coupler70may be positioned at the top of the male coupler70in such an embodiment, such that the engagement member89may be lowered into locking engagement with the male coupler70or raised to be released from locking engagement with the male coupler70.

The engagement member89may comprise various projections or extensions which extend downwardly from the inner upper edge88of the latch50. By way of example, the engagement member89may comprise a rib, elongated projection, rectangular projection, fastener, tab, or the like. In some embodiments, the engagement member89may instead be on the inner lower edge55of the latch50so as to selectively engage with a catch portion74on the bottom of the male coupler70.

Continuing to referenceFIG. 31, the latch50includes a first side81and a second side82. The first side81of the latch50includes a first projection80aand the second side82of the latch50includes a second projection80b. Each of the projections80a,80bmay comprise various types of projections such as fasteners, nubs, bumps, round projections, elongated projections, and the like. The projections80a,80bmay be utilized to secure the latch50in either the raised or the lowered position, as well as to provide a visual indication of the status of the latch50.

The housing23of the first connector20may include first upper and lower side openings85a,86aon its first side and second upper and lower side openings85b,86bon its second side such as shown inFIGS. 23-26, 28, and 30. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the upper and lower side openings85a,85b,86a,86bare positioned on the respective sides of the female coupler40of the front portion24of the housing23.

The first upper side opening85amay be positioned directly above the first lower side opening86aand the second upper side opening85bmay be positioned directly above the second lower side opening86b. The spacing between respective upper side openings85a,85band lower side openings86a,86bon the housing23may vary in different embodiments.

The first projection80aon the first side81of the latch50may be adapted to selectively engage within one of a pair of side openings85a,86aon a first side of the housing23of the first connector20and the second projection80bon the second side82of the latch50may be adapted to selectively engage within one of a pair of side openings85b,86bon a second side of the housing23.

When the latch50is in the raised position, the first projection80aon the first side81of the latch50will engage within the first upper side opening85aon the first side of the housing23and the second projection80bon the second side82of the latch50will engage within the second upper side opening86aon the second side of the housing23. When the latch50is in the lowered position, the first projection80aon the first side81of the latch50will engage within the first lower side opening86aon the first side of the housing23and the second projection80bon the second side82of the latch50will engage within the second lower side opening86bon the second side of the housing23.

FIG. 23illustrates a first and second connector20,60being engaged but not locked, with the button59being in the raised position and the projections80a,80bbeing positioned in the upper side openings85a,86a.FIG. 24illustrates the button59being pressed downwardly, which lowers the latch50such that the engagement member89on the inner upper edge88of the latch50engages within a corresponding catch portion74of the male coupler70. The projections80a,80bare also shown as being connected within the lower side openings86a,86b. The projections80a,80bretain the latch50in its raised or lowered position absent application of force by the user.

FIGS. 25, 26, 28, and 30illustrate various states of engagement and locking between the first and second connectors20,60, with the female coupler40being transparent to illustrate positioning of the latch50.FIG. 25illustrates the first and second connectors20,60being engaged with each other, with the male coupler70being inserted within the female coupler40.

FIG. 26illustrates the button59being pressed downwardly, which lowers the latch50such that the engagement member89engages within the catch portion74of the male coupler70to lock the connectors20,60together such as shown inFIG. 27. The projections80a,80bare engaged within the upper side openings85a,85bto retain the button59and latch50in the lowered position absent application of upward force. The lower end52of the latch50is visible within the lower opening36of the housing23.

FIG. 28illustrates the button59being lifted upwardly, which raises the latch50such that the engagement member89disengages from within the catch portion74of the male coupler70to unlock the connectors20,60such as shown inFIG. 29. The projections80a,80bare engaged within the lower side openings86a,86bto retain the button59and latch50in the raised position absent application of downward force. The lower end52of the latch50either is not visible or is only partially visible within the lower opening36of the housing23.FIG. 30illustrates the first and second connectors20,60being disengaged from each other with the button59and latch50being in the raised position and not engaged with the catch portion74of the male coupler70so that the male coupler70may be withdrawn from the female coupler40.