PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8782869-B2
Application Number: US-201113109944-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Unlocking tool for male connector

Abstract:
A connector of a cable (e.g., a 30-pin connector) can be used to facilitate various security-related and other functionalities. For example, a connector can include security locking mechanisms for engaging or locking the connector to a portable electronic device. A connector can additionally support the transmission of security signals, data signals, power, and/or the like. An unlocking tool can be used to disengage a connector locked to the portable electronic device. More specifically, the unlocking tool can be applied to a connector and cause the locking mechanisms of the connector to release such that the connector can be freely disconnected from a connected portable electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A tool for disengaging a plug connector mated with a corresponding receptacle connector, the tool comprising:
 a housing having a front, a back and first and second side surfaces formed there between that combine to form a longitudinally extending cavity, the cavity having an opening at a first end of the housing; 
 a first pair of openings that extend through the first side surface and a second pair of openings that extend through the second side surface, wherein the first and second pairs of openings mirror each other and each include a first opening near the first end and a second opening spaced apart from the first opening towards a second end of the housing, opposite the first end; 
 a first wire form module having a first end positioned within the cavity, a u-shaped portion that extends out of the cavity between the first and second openings on the first side surface, and a second end that extends into the first opening on the first side surface; and 
 a second wire form module having a first end positioned within the cavity, a u-shaped portion that extends out of the cavity between the first and second openings on the second side surface, and a second end that extends into the first opening on the second side surface; 
 wherein a force can be asserted on the u-shaped portion of each of the first and second wire form modules to press the second end of each wire module into the cavity. 
 
     
     
       2. The tool set forth in  claim 1  wherein each wire form module includes an s-shaped portion with one curve of the portion forming the u-shaped portion that extends between the first and second openings and a second curve of the s-shaped portion positioned within the cavity between the u-shaped portion and the first end of the wire module. 
     
     
       3. The tool set forth in  claim 1  wherein the front of the housing includes an opening centrally located between the first and second sides that extends longitudinally from the opening at the first end of the housing towards the second end of the housing. 
     
     
       4. The tool set forth in  claim 1  wherein the housing includes a generally rectangular cross section with rounded corners at both its outer and interior surfaces. 
     
     
       5. The tool set forth in  claim 1  wherein the second opening in each of the first and second pairs of openings is a slot having a length at least several times its width. 
     
     
       6. The tool set forth in  claim 1  wherein the housing further includes an end surface at the second end of the housing, wherein the end surface includes third and fourth openings extending into the cavity. 
     
     
       7. The tool set forth in  claim 6  further comprising a lanyard looped through the cavity between the third and fourth openings of the end surface. 
     
     
       8. The tool set forth in  claim 1  wherein the cavity includes first and second channels formed on opposing interior surfaces of the first and second side surfaces, respectively, each of the first and second channels being positioned between the second opening formed on its respective side surface and the second end of the housing. 
     
     
       9. The tool set forth in  claim 8  wherein the first openings of the first and second pairs each has a larger diameter opening at an outer surface of the first or second side surfaces, and a smaller diameter opening at an interior surface of the first or second side surfaces. 
     
     
       10. The tool set forth in  claim 9  wherein the second end of each of the first and second wire form modules includes a pin that extends into the smaller diameter opening at the interior surface of the first or second side surfaces. 
     
     
       11. The tool set forth in  claim 10  wherein the pin in each of the first and second wire form modules includes a diameter that is smaller than other portions of the wire form module.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the securing of portable electronic devices and more particularly to connectors and tools for locking and unlocking portable electronic devices. 
     Electronic computing devices have been in use for several decades. In some instances, electronic computing devices can have weight and size characteristics such that the devices are portable or easily moved. Examples of portable electronic devices include, for example, laptop computers, mobile phones, smartphones, tablet devices, portable multimedia players, and/or the like. Such devices can be used for performing a wide variety of tasks, from the simple to the most complex. 
     In many instances, portable electronic devices can be connected to cables in order to enable various functionalities. For example, a portable electronic device can use a cable to communicate with other devices. As another example, a portable electronic device can use a cable to receive power. As still another example, a portable electronic device can be attached to a cable such that the device is tethered to a fixture. In doing so, the portable electronic device can be secured from theft. 
     In typical retail environments, portable electronic devices on display for purchase are usually connected to a number of different cables. Illustratively, a portable electronic device can be connected to a first cable for receiving power and a second cable for securing the device to a fixture. Use of multiple cables, however is not optimal from a user experience perspective. In particular, portable electronic devices, under normal use conditions, are not typically connected to separate security cables. Because security requirements in retail environments necessitate such cables, simulation of normal use conditions within such environments can be inaccurate. For example, security cables can restrict device movement, affect device weight, adversely impact retail display aesthetics, and/or the like. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to various embodiments of the present invention, a connector of a cable (e.g., a 30-pin connector) can be used to facilitate various security-related and other functionalities. In some embodiments, for example, a connector can include a security locking mechanism for engaging or locking the connector to a portable electronic device. A connector can additionally support the transmission of security signals, data signals, power, and/or the like. 
     According to some embodiments, a separate unlocking tool can be used to disengage the connector from a portable electronic device. More specifically, the unlocking tool can be applied to the connector and cause the locking mechanism of the connector to release such that the connector can be freely disconnected from the portable electronic device. 
     In one embodiment, a connector can include a plug body and a plug housing extending from the plug body. The plug housing can be inserted within a corresponding receptacle connector during a mating event. In some embodiments, the plug housing can include a number of pin or contact locations. One or more of the pin locations can each include a pin, which can be electrically coupled to a pin or contact of the receptacle connector. 
     The connector can additionally include one or more locking mechanisms for locking the connector to the receptacle connector. For example, the locking mechanism can include one or more hooks that can engage with the receptacle connector during mating. In particular, the hooks can enter inner cavities of the receptacle connector, which can cause the connector to become locked to the receptacle connector. 
     The connector can furthermore include one or more release points (e.g., lower portions of the hooks). Application of a force on the release points can cause the locking mechanisms to become disengaged such that the connector and receptacle connector can become unlocked from one another. The release points can be accessible via one or more access pathways situated on the sides of the connector. 
     In another embodiment, an unlocking tool can include a housing. The housing can include a cavity for receiving a connector. In particular, the cavity can have dimensions such that the connector can be slid into the cavity. The connector can be received by the housing through a top opening of the housing. The housing can further include a front opening through which cabling connected to the connector can exit the housing. 
     The unlocking tool can further include one or more user initiation portions. The lower portions of the user initiation portions can be attached to channels within the cavity of the unlocking tool&#39;s housing. The upper portions of the user initiation portion can extend along the sides of the housing and exit via side openings of the housing. The segments of the user initiation portion disposed on the outside of the housing can be configured to receive a user applied force or pressure. The user initiation portions can additionally include pins situated at their ends. The pins can include a length and diameter such that the pins can enter the access pathways of a connector and contact the release points of the connector&#39;s locking mechanism such that the locking mechanism releases from a connected receptacle connector. 
     Various embodiments can incorporate one or more of these and other features described herein. A better understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention can be gained by reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying figures. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The figures presented herein are shown for illustrative purposes only, and may not be to scale. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a system for engaging a connector to a portable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a system for disengaging a connector from a portable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary cable according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a cross section view of an exemplary male plug connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates a side view of the exemplary male plug connector shown in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 4C  illustrates a top view of the exemplary male plug connector shown in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 4D  illustrates an angled view of the exemplary male plug connector shown in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 5  illustrates the components of an exemplary portable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates the location of a female receptacle connector within an exemplary portable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates a cross section view of an exemplary female receptacle connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 7A-7C  illustrate the engagement of a male plug connector to a female receptacle connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8A  illustrates a cross section view of an exemplary unlocking tool according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8B  illustrates a bottom view of the exemplary unlocking tool shown in  FIG. 8A . 
         FIG. 8C  illustrates an angled view of the exemplary unlocking tool shown in  FIG. 8A . 
         FIG. 8D  illustrates a cross section view of a housing of the exemplary unlocking tool shown in  FIG. 8A . 
         FIG. 8E  illustrates a front view of a user initiation portion of the exemplary unlocking tool shown in  FIG. 8A . 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a block flow diagram of a process for assembling an unlocking tool according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 10A-10C  illustrate the assembly of an unlocking tool according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a block flow diagram of a process for disengaging a male plug connector from a female receptacle connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12A  illustrates a cross section view of an exemplary unlocking tool with an exemplary male plug connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12B  illustrates a cross section view of an exemplary male plug connector as the connector is disengaged from a female receptacle connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Some embodiments of the present invention provide for an electrical connector that can be used to facilitate various security-related and other functionalities. In some embodiments, for example, a connector can include a security locking mechanism for engaging or locking the connector to a portable electronic device. The connector can additionally support the transmission of security signals, data signals, power, and/or the like, to the portable electronic device. Electrical connectors according to embodiments of the present invention can include a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, number of contacts, etc. For example, electrical connectors can include 6, 8 or 30 contacts. 
     According to some embodiments, a separate unlocking tool can be used to disengage the connector from the portable electronic device. More specifically, the unlocking tool can be applied to a connector and cause the locking mechanism of the connector to release such that the connector can be freely disconnected from the portable electronic device. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, a connector can be a male plug connector, such as a connector suitable for interfacing with an iPad®, iPod®, or iPhone® manufactured by Apple Inc. In the embodiment, the male plug connector can be situated at an end of a computer cable. The male plug connector can include hooks that can be used to engage with a portable electronic device&#39;s female receptacle connector such that the male plug connector and portable electronic device can be sufficiently locked with one another. In doing so, the portable electronic device can be tethered by the computer cable to a suitable fixture, etc. (e.g., a table, another computing device, a security system). The male plug connector can additionally include one or more pathways that can allow access to the lower portions of the connector&#39;s hooks. An unlocking tool can be used to access the pathways and cause the male plug connector&#39;s hooks to be shifted such that the hooks disengage from the portable electronic device&#39;s female receptacle connector. 
     The male plug connector can additionally be configured to facilitate various other functionalities, such as the transmission of security signals, the transmission of power, and/or the like. For instance, the male plug connector can be configured to facilitate the transmission of a security signal from a connected portable electronic device to a security system. The security system can periodically or continuously monitor for the presence of the security signal. If the security signal is not detected, the security system can generate an alert (e.g., an audio alert, an electronic alert, etc.). In some instances, the male plug connector can further be configured to facilitate the transmission of power to the portable electronic device from an external power source. 
     As discussed, embodiments can provide for security support (e.g., locking mechanisms, security signal transmission) in male plug connectors. In doing so, embodiments can enable portable electronic devices to be sufficiently secured such that theft of the portable electronic devices can be deterred. Embodiments can additionally enable for improved user experiences within retail environments. More specifically, by integrating security support with other functionalities (e.g., power transmission) into a single connector, embodiments can allow the number of required connectors and cables needed in a retail display to be reduced. As a result, the aesthetics of the retail display can be improved, device weight can be reduced, movement restrictions can be eliminated, and/or the like. For example, embodiments can enable a retail display to appear more aesthetically-pleasing and/or minimalistic. As another example, embodiments, by eliminating the added weight associated with a separate security cable, can allow a customer to better simulate normal use conditions. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a system  100  for securing a connector to a portable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 1 , system  100  can include a cable  102 , a portable electronic device  104 , a security system  106 , and a power source  108 . As further shown in  FIG. 1  portable electronic device  104  and security system  106  can maintain a connection via cable  102 . As additionally shown in  FIG. 1 , portable electronic device  104  can additionally be connected to power source  108  via cable  102 . 
     Cable  102  can be any suitable cable capable of connecting with portable electronic device  104 . Cable  102  can be or include, for example, a computer cable, a USB cable, a Firewire cable, a proprietary cable, a derivative cable (e.g., cable based on USB and/or Firewire), a ribbon cable, a flex cable, a wire, a bundle of wires and/or the like. 
     In some embodiments, cable  102  can include a male plug connector  109  for interfacing with a female receptacle connector of portable electronic device  104 . Male plug connector  109  can be, for example, a 30-pin connector. Other connector types, however, can be used. In certain embodiments, the male plug connector can include a locking mechanism e.g., hooks for engaging with a female receptacle connector. More specifically, when male plug connector  109  is mated with a female receptacle connector (not shown) embedded within portable electronic device  104 , the locking mechanism of male plug connector  109  can engage with the female receptacle connector such that cable  102  can be sufficiently locked to portable electronic device  104 . For example, male plug connector  109  can include two hooks situated on each side of the male plug connector. The hooks can each be at least partially received by an inner cavity of the female receptacle connector. Thereafter, when a user attempts to disconnect the male plug connector  109  from the female receptacle connector, the hooks of the male plug connector can contact the bases of the inner cavities. As a result, a retention force can be generated that prevents male plug connector  109  from being disconnected from the female receptacle connector. 
     In certain embodiments, cable  102  can additionally include a number of connectors situated at an end opposite to the end at which male plug connector  109  is situated. According to some embodiments, the connectors can include a connector for interfacing with a security system, a connector for interfacing with a power source, a connector for interfacing with a computing device (e.g., a desktop computer), and/or the like. Illustratively, cable  102  can include a connector for interfacing with security system  106  and a USB connector for interfacing with power source  108 . 
     According to some embodiments, cable  102  can facilitate the transmission of a security signal from portable electronic device  104  to security system  106 . Security system  106  can use the received signal to monitor its connection with portable electronic device  104 . Illustratively, cable  102  can include a path (e.g., one or more electrical elements or lines) connecting the male plug connector with the connector for interfacing with security system  106 . When cable  102  is connected to portable electronic device  104  and security system  106 , an electrical circuit between potable device  104  and security system  106  can be formed. Security system  106  can monitor the circuit in order to determine its current connection status with portable electronic device  104 . In some embodiments, cable  102  can additionally facilitate the transmission of power from power source  108  to portable electronic device  104 . 
     Portable electronic device  104  can be any portable electronic device with a female receptacle connector suitable for connecting to a male plug connector. Portable electronic device  104  can be, for example, a laptop computer, a tablet device, a key fob, a car key, an access card, a multi-function device, a mobile phone, a portable gaming device, a portable multimedia player, a portable music player, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a household appliance device, and/or any portable or non-portable electronic or electro-mechanical device and/or the like. Illustratively, portable electronic device  104  can be an iPad®, IPod®, or iPhone® device available from Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. 
     Security system  106  can be any system suitable for securing a portable electronic device. Illustratively, security system  106  can be an alarm system that continuously or periodically monitors for a security signal from portable electronic device  104 . In the event a security signal is not detected, security signal  106  can generate an alert or message. Illustratively, security system  106  can be connected to portable electronic device  104  via cable  102 . While security system  106  is connected to portable electronic device  104 , an electrical circuit can be maintained between the security system and portable electronic device. In the event the circuit is broken because e.g., cable  102  is severed or portable electronic device  104  is disconnected from cable  102 , security system  106  can generate an audio alert. 
     Power source  108  can be any suitable source for providing power to portable electronic device  104 . For example, power source  108  can be an AC adapter, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a device with a USB port, and/or the like. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a system  200  for disengaging a male plug connector from a female receptacle connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 2 , system  200  includes a cable  102 , a portable electronic device  104 , a security system  106 , a power source  108  and an unlocking tool  210 . System  200  can be similar to system  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , except that system  200  includes an unlocking tool  210  partially enclosing male plug connector  109  of cable  102 . The cabling of cable  102  can be run through a front opening of unlocking tool  210  and connect to security system  106  and power source  108 . 
     As in system  100  of  FIG. 1 , male plug connector  109  can be locked to the female receptacle connector of portable electronic device  104 . In some embodiments, a user can apply pressure or a slight force to the sides of unlocking tool  210  such that the tool causes male plug connector  109  to disengage from the female receptacle connector. In particular, the tool can cause the hooks of male plug connector  109  to be moved outside of the inner cavities of the female receptacle connector. The manner in which unlocking tool  210  can be used to cause the male plug connector to disengage from the female receptacle connector will be described in greater detail below. 
     It will be appreciated that the devices and cables shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  are illustrative and that variations and modifications are possible. For example, although the systems of  FIGS. 1 and 2  show one cable, one portable electronic device, one security system, one power source, and/or one unlocking tool, any suitable number of these entities (including zero) can be included. Different entities can also be included. Illustratively, portable electronic device  104  of  FIG. 1  can be connected to a security system, power source, and a desktop computer via cable  102 . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary cable  300  (e.g., cable  102  of  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Cable  300  can include a male plug connector  302 , a security connector  304 , a USB connector  306 , and a cabling portion  312 . Each of the aforementioned connectors can include a set of contacts or pins for supporting various functionalities. 
     Cabling portion  312  can include electrical elements or lines suitable for connecting one or more pins of a connector to one or more pins of another connector. For example, one or more electrical elements of cabling portion  312  can connect one or more pins of male plug connector  302  to one or more pins of security connector  304 . As another example, one or more electrical elements of cabling portion  312  can connect one or more pins of male plug connector  302  to one or more pins of USB connector  306 . 
     Male plug connector  302  can be any suitable connection mechanism for mating with a female receptacle of a portable electronic device. In some embodiments, for example, male plug connector  302  can be a 30-pin connector. In such embodiments, the 30-pin male plug connector can include 30 pin locations and 30 or fewer pins assigned to the pin locations. According to some embodiments and as shown in  FIG. 3 , male plug connector  302  can be situated at one end of cable  300 . 
     In some embodiments, male plug connector  302  can include locking mechanism  308  for temporarily engaging or locking the male plug connector to a female receptacle connector of a portable electronic device. In doing so, cable  300  can be used to secure the portable electronic device. Specifically, cable  300  can tether the portable electronic device to, for example, another device, a security system, a power source, a table, other fixtures, and/or the like. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 3 , male plug connector  302  can include access pathways  310 . Access pathways  310  can enable an unlocking tool to access locking mechanism  308 . Upon accessing locking mechanism  308 , the unlocking tool can cause the locking mechanism to release such that male plug connector  302  can become disengaged from a female receptacle connector. 
     In some embodiments, male plug connector  302  can include one or more pins or contacts for transmitting various signals. According to some embodiments, male plug connector  302  can include pins for transmitting a security signal. For example, the 30th pin of male plug connector  302  can be used to transmit a security signal to a security system. In some embodiments, male plug connector  302  can include additional circuitry to support transmission of the security signal. For example, male plug connector  302  can include circuitry capable of regulating, modifying, converting, and/or filtering the security signal such that the signal works properly with a connected security system. In some embodiments, male plug connector  302  can additionally include contacts or pins for receiving power and/or communicating data. 
     Security connector  304  can be any suitable connection for interfacing with a security system. Illustratively, security connector  304  can be an RJ-11 type connector suitable for interfacing with an RJ-11 socket of a security system. As shown in  FIG. 3 , security connector  304  can be situated at an end of cable  300  opposite to the end where male plug connector  302  is situated. In certain embodiments, security connector  304  can facilitate the transmission of a security signal from portable electronic device  104  to security system  106 . For example, security connector  304  can be connected to a security system. One or more pins of security connector  304  can receive a security signal from a connected portable electronic device (via male plug connector  302  and cabling portion  312 ) and provide the security signal to the security system. 
     USB connector  306  can be a standard or derivative USB connector. Illustratively, USB connector  306  can be a conventional USB connector for interfacing with the USB port of another device, such as a desktop computer, a laptop, an A/C adaptor, and/or the like. As shown in  FIG. 3 , USB connector  306  can be situated at an end of cable  300  opposite to the end where male plug connector  302  is situated 
     In certain embodiments, USB connector  306  can facilitate the transmission of power (via male plug connector  302  and cabling portion  312 ) to a portable electronic device from a USB port with which USB connector  306  is connected. Illustratively, USB connector  306  can include pins or contacts for drawing up to 5V from a connected USB port. The power that is drawn can be transmitted to a portable electronic device, which can use the power to operate circuitry located in the portable electronic device, charge a battery associated with the portable electronic device, etc. 
     In some embodiments, USB connector  306  can additionally facilitate data transmission (via male plug connector  302  and cabling portion  312 ) between a portable electronic device and the device to which USB connector  306  is connected. For example, USB connector  306  can include pins or contacts for receiving and transmitting data signals to a portable electronic device. The data signals can be, for example signals compliant with USB 1.0, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or other USB standards that have been developed, are currently being developed, or will be developed in the future. 
     Although not explicitly shown in  FIG. 3 , cable  300  can include other connectors, such as connectors to receive data signals (e.g., Ethernet cables), video signals (e.g., HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort, RCA, coaxial connectors, and/or the like), audio signals (e.g., TS connectors, TRS connectors, RCA connectors, and/or the like), etc. For example, cable  300  can include an HDMI connector for receiving a video signal from a connected device and transmitting the signal to a portable electronic device. 
       FIGS. 4A-4D  illustrate cross section, side, top, and angled views of an exemplary male plug connector  400  (e.g., male plug connector  302  of  FIG. 3 ) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 4A , a cross section view of male plug connector  400  is illustrated. As shown in  FIG. 4A , male plug connector  400  can include an plug body  402 , a plug housing  404 , hooks  406 , and access pathways  408 . Plug body  402  can be any suitable housing that allows a user to hold or grip male plug connector  400  such that the mating or interfacing of the male plug connector to a female receptacle connector of a portable electronic device can be facilitated. Plug body  402  can be composed of any suitable material or combinations of material, such as plastic, metal, wood, acrylic, glass, composite material, and/or the like. In some embodiments, plug body  402  can include an image, icon, label, or other element for identifying the male plug connector. Illustratively, plug body  402  can include a lock icon situated on its outer surface. The lock icon can enable a user to identify that male plug connector  400  includes security functionalities. In some embodiments, plug body  402  can at least partially enclose plug housing  404  and hooks  406 . Plug body  402  can further include access pathways  408  that enable an external unlocking tool to access hooks  406 . As will be discussed below, access pathways  408  can be passages within plug body  402  that lead to hooks  406 . 
     Plug housing  404  can be any suitable connection mechanism for connecting with the female receptacle connector of a portable electronic device. Plug housing  404  can be composed of any suitable material or combinations of material, such as plastic, metal, wood, acrylic, glass, composite material, and/or the like. In some embodiments, plug housing  404  can be formed to fit the receptacle tongue of a female receptacle connector. For example, plug housing  404  can include an insert opening formed to accept a receptacle tongue. In certain embodiments, plug housing  404  can include one or more contacts or pins. When plug housing  404  is mated with a receptacle tongue, the plug housing&#39;s pins can be electrically coupled to the pins of the receptacle tongue. In doing so, various functionalities can be facilitated. Illustratively, power can be supplied to a portable electronic device. A security signal can additionally be transmitted from the portable electronic device to a connected security system. 
     In some embodiments, each pin can be located at a pin location within plug housing  404 . The number of pins in plug housing  404  can be equal to or less than the total number of pin locations in the plug housing. Illustratively, plug housing  404  can include 30 pin locations with 30 pins assigned to each location. As another example, plug housing  404  can include 30 pin locations, but have only 6 pins. The pins within plug housing  404  can be assigned to any suitable pin location. The assigned locations of the pins can be, but need not be consecutive. 
     In some embodiments, plug housing  404  can include openings disposed on each of its sides. The openings can be configured to allow portions of hooks  406  (e.g., locking portions  410 ) to exit through the opening. 
     Hooks  406  can be any suitable mechanism for engaging male plug connector  400  with the female receptacle connector of a portable electronic device. Hooks  406  can be formed of a flexible metal or other material having a spring-like quality; can be biased by a spring; etc. such that the hooks can be deflected during the connection of male plug connector  400  to a female receptacle connector, and returned to their original positions following the connection of the male plug connector to the female receptacle connector. Illustratively, as male plug connector  400  is being mated with a female receptacle connector, hooks  406  can be shifted inward. Following the mating event, hooks  406  can be shifted back to their original positions. In shifting back to their original positions, hooks  406  can engage with the female receptacle connector as to lock the male plug connector to the female receptacle connector. 
     For example, according to some embodiments, hooks  406  can be configured to tilt inward during a mating event. In particular, each hook  406  can have its base fixed or attached within plug body  402  and/or plug housing  404 . Each hook  406  can be further configured to pivot around its base such that the hook can be tilted inward during a mating event. As a result of the tilting, each hook&#39;s  406  locking portion  410  (described in greater detail below) can retreat into plug housing  404 . Following mating, each hook  406  can tilt back to its original position such that its locking portion  410  extends back outside of plug housing  404 , thereby locking the male plug connector with a female receptacle connector. 
     As another example, according to certain embodiments, hooks  406  can be configured to bend inward during a mating event. In particular, each hook  406  can have its base fixed or attached within plug body  402  and/or plug housing  404 . Illustratively, the base of each hook  406  can be anchored by, for instance, a channel within plug body  402 . The upper portion of each hook  406  can be configured to bend inward during a mating event. As a result of the bending, each hook&#39;s  406  locking portion  410  can retreat into plug housing  404 . Following mating, the upper portion of each hook  406  can bend back to its original position such that each hook&#39;s  406  locking portion  410  extends back outside of plug housing  404 , thereby locking the male plug connector with a female receptacle connector. 
     As still another example, according to some embodiments, hooks  406  can be configured to move inward during a mating event. In such embodiments, the base of each hook is not fixed to a particular position within plug body  402  and/or plug housing  404 . Rather, during a mating event, the entirety of each hook can be moved inward. As a result of the movement, each hook&#39;s  406  locking portion  410  can retreat into plug housing  404 . Following mating, each hook  406  can be moved back to its original position such that its locking portion  410  extends back outside of plug housing  404 , thereby locking the male plug connector with a female receptacle connector. In such embodiments, hooks  406  can remain vertical (or substantially vertical) and remain unbent during mating. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4A  and briefly discussed, hooks  406  can include locking portions  410  that enable each hook  406  to engage a female receptacle connector. Each locking portion  410  or “barb” can protrude through an opening on a side of plug housing  404 . As discussed, an individual hook  406  can be moved, tilted, or bent during a mating event such that its associated locking portion  410  can retreat within the opening. Each locking portion  410  can be structured and shaped in a suitable manner in order to engage with a female receptacle connector. For example, an individual locking portion can have a triangular shape. The shape can approximate, for instance, a right-angled triangle. In some embodiments, side  414  of an individual locking portion  410  can be sloped relative to a female receptacle connector such that an individual hook  406  can be engaged or locked to the female receptacle connector with a relatively small amount of force. In particular, a relatively small amount of force can be required to cause individual hook  406  to enter an inner cavity of the female receptacle connector. Side  412  of the individual locking portion  410  can be parallel or substantially parallel to the inner cavity of the connected female receptacle connector. As a result, side  412  can act as a retention mechanism that locks male plug connector  400  to the female receptacle connector. In some embodiments, the force required to disconnect male plug connector  400  from the female receptacle connector can be larger than the force needed to connect the male plug connector to the female receptacle connector. In certain embodiments, the force required to disconnect male plug connector  400  from female receptacle connector can be sufficiently large as to break hooks  406  when the hooks are engaged to the female receptacle connector. 
     As discussed, side  412  can be parallel or substantially parallel to the base of an inner cavity of a female receptacle connector. In certain embodiments, side  412  can be ±5 degrees to the base of an inner cavity of a female receptacle connector. In other embodiments, side  412  can be ±15 degrees to the base of an inner cavity of a female receptacle connector. In some embodiments, side  412  can be a length between 1.05 and 1.30 mm. For example, side  412  can be 1.13 mm in length. 
     Access pathways  408  can include access paths configured to receive at least a portion of an external unlocking tool. For example, male plug connector  400  can include two access pathways. As shown in  FIG. 4A , the two access pathways can be situated on opposite sides of the male plug connector. In some embodiments, the access paths of access pathways  408  can enable the unlocking tool to access hooks  406  and cause the hooks to disengage from a female receptacle connector. More specifically, pins of an external unlocking tool can travel along the length of the access paths and contact release points of hooks  406  such that the hooks are moved, tilted, or bent inward. In doing so, the hooks  406  can become disengaged from the female receptacle connector such that a portable electronic device can be easily disconnected from the female receptacle connector. Access pathways  408  can be any suitable shape and include any suitable dimensions for receiving an external unlocking tool. For example, each access pathway  408  can be cylindrical in shape. Each access pathway  408  can additionally include a diameter such that a special tool is required to access the pathway. In some embodiments, the diameter of each access pathway  408  can be smaller than certain standard and/or conventionally available items. For example, an individual access pathway  408  can include a diameter smaller than a standard paper clip. As such, a standard paper clip would be too thick to be used to enter access pathway and access a hook  406 . As a result, unlocking a male plug connector from a female receptacle connector can be made difficult. In some embodiments, access path  408  can have a diameter that is 0.808 mm or less. 
       FIG. 4B  illustrates a side view of male plug connector  400 . In particular,  FIG. 4B  shows plug body  402 , plug housing  404 , an individual hook  406 , and an individual access pathway  408 . As discussed, an external unlocking tool can access pathway  408  and cause hook  406  to become disengaged from a connected female receptacle connector.  FIG. 4C  illustrates a top view of male plug connector  400 . In particular,  FIG. 4C  shows the various pins that can be included in plug housing  404 . In some embodiments, pin  422  can be used transmit power (e.g., USB 5V power). Pins  424  and  426  can additionally be used to transmit data (e.g., USB D+/−). Pins  418  and  420  can be used to provide ground function (e.g., USB ground). In certain embodiments, pin  416  can be used to transmit a security signal. Other pins can be used, however, to additionally or alternatively transmit a security signal.  FIG. 4D  illustrates an angled view of male plug connector  400 . In particular,  FIG. 4D  shows plug body  402 , plug housing  404 , hooks  406 , and an individual access pathway  408 . 
       FIG. 5  is a block diagram showing the components of an exemplary portable electronic device  500  (e.g., portable electronic device  104  of  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one example, portable electronic device  500  can include a controller  502 , a Bluetooth module  504 , an RF module  506 , a WiFi module  508 , a storage module  510 , a display module  512 , and an accessory input/output module  516 . In some embodiments, portable electronic device  500  can include additional modules, such as global positioning system (GPS) modules, battery modules, motion detection modules, device orientation modules, audio modules, three-dimensional video processing modules, magnometer modules, three-dimensional gyroscope modules, acceleration detection modules, and/or the like. In some embodiments, portable electronic device  500  can be a sufficient size, dimension, and weight to enable the device to be easily moved by a user. For example, portable electronic device  500  can be pocket size. 
     Controller  502 , which can be implemented as one or more integrated circuits, can control and manage the overall operation of portable electronic device  500 . For example, controller  502  can perform various tasks, such as retrieving various assets that can be stored in storage module  510 , accessing the functionalities of various modules (e.g., interacting with other Bluetooth enabled devices via Bluetooth module  504 ), executing various software programs (e.g., operating systems and applications) residing on storage module  510 , transmitting wireless network access credentials, transmitting device identifiers, and so on. In some embodiments, controller  502  can include one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors or microcontrollers) configured to execute machine-readable instructions. For example, controller  502  can include a single chip applications processor. Controller  502  can further be connected to storage module  510  in any suitable manner. 
     Bluetooth module  504  can include any suitable combinations of hardware for performing wireless communications with other Bluetooth enabled devices and allows an RF signal to be exchanged between controller  502  and other Bluetooth enabled devices. In some embodiments, Bluetooth module  504  can perform such wireless communications according to standard Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Data Rate (BR/EDR) and/or Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) standards. For example, Bluetooth module  504  can include suitable hardware for performing device discovery, connection establishment, and communication based on only Bluetooth LE (e.g., single mode operation). As another example, Bluetooth module  504  can include suitable hardware for device discovery, connection establishment, and communication based on both standard Bluetooth BR/EDR and Bluetooth LE (e.g., dual mode operation). As still another example, Bluetooth module  504  can include suitable hardware for device discovery, connection establishment, and communication based only on standard Bluetooth BR/EDR. 
     RF module  506  can include any suitable combinations of hardware for performing wireless communications with wireless voice and/or data networks. For example, RF module  506  can include a RF transceiver (e.g., using mobile telephone technology such as GSM or CDMA, advanced data network technology such as 5G or EDGE) that enables a user of portable electronic device  500  to place telephone calls over a wireless voice network. 
     WiFi module  508  can include any suitable combinations of hardware for performing WiFi (e.g., IEEE 802.11 family standards) based communications with other WiFi enabled devices. 
     Storage module  510  can be implemented, e.g., using disk, flash memory, random access memory (RAM), hybrid types of memory, optical disc drives or any other storage medium that can store program code and/or data. Storage module  510  can store software programs  514  that are executable by controller  502 , including operating systems, applications, and related program code. 
     Software programs  514  (also referred to as software or apps herein) can include any program executable by controller  502 . In some embodiments, certain software programs can be installed on portable electronic device  500  by its manufacturer, while other software programs can be installed by a user. Examples of software programs  514  can include operating systems, productivity applications, video game applications, personal information management applications, applications for playing media assets and/or navigating a media asset database, applications for controlling a telephone interface to place and/or receive calls, and so on. Certain software programs  514  can provide communication with and/or control of portable electronic devices, and certain software programs  514  can be responsive to control signals or other input from portable electronic device  500 . 
     Display module  512  can be implemented as a CRT display, an LCD display (e.g., touch screen), a plasma display, a direct-projection or rear-projection DLP, a microdisplay, and/or the like. In various embodiments, display module  512  can be used to visually display user interfaces, images, and/or the like. In some embodiments, display module  512  can also be configured to receive input from a user of portable electronic device  500 . For example, display module  512  can be an LCD-based touch screen. During operation, display module  512  can present graphical user interfaces to a user and also receive inputs (e.g., finger taps) from the user. 
     Input/output (I/O) interface  516  can include a number of signal paths configured to carry various signals between portable electronic device  500  and a connected device or system. In one embodiment, accessory I/O interface  516  can include a 30-pin female receptacle connector corresponding to the connector used on iPad®, iPod® and iPhone° products manufactured and sold by Apple Inc.; other connectors can also be used. In some embodiments, input/output interface  516  can receive power from a connected device (e.g., an AC adapter, a laptop computer, etc.), transmit security signals, transmit data signals, etc. 
       FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate an exemplary female receptacle connector  600  of a portable electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 6A , an example location for female receptacle connector  600  within a portable electronic device (e.g., portable electronic device  104  of  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) is illustrated. As shown in  FIG. 6A , female receptacle connector  600  can be located at the base of a portable electronic device. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6B , a cross section view of female receptacle connector  600  is illustrated. As shown in  FIG. 6B , female receptacle connector  600  can include a receptacle tongue  602  and a housing portion  604 . Receptacle tongue  602  can be an injection molded around one or more contacts. In some embodiments, receptacle tongue  602  can provide mechanical support for the contacts. Receptacle tongue  602  can additionally provide a moisture or water-resistant seal around the contacts, thereby helping to protect components or circuits in the interior of the portable electronic device. In some embodiments, receptacle tongue  602  can be formed to fit within the plug housing of a male plug connector. 
     Housing portion  604  can be formed using any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastic, metal, wood, acrylic, glass, composite material, and/or the like. In some embodiments, housing portion  604  can enclose receptacle tongue  602  and form a recess with which a male plug connector can fit. For example, housing portion  604  can include dimensions such that a plug housing of a male plug connector can be fit within the recess and interface with receptacle tongue  602 . In some embodiments, housing portion  604  can include inner cavities  606 . While the female receptacle connector is being connected to a male plug connector, inner cavities  606  can, in some embodiments, receive the locking portions of the hooks of the male plug connector. Following the connection of the female receptacle connector and male plug connector, the locking portions can be situated within inner cavities  606 . Through receiving the locking portions in this manner, female receptacle connector  600  can be locked to the male plug connector. 
     In some embodiments, housing portion  604  can additionally be used, at least in part, to enclose other components and/or circuitry of a portable electronic device. For example, housing portion  604  can additionally enclose a portable electronic device&#39;s applications processor, Bluetooth modules, WiFi modules, and/or the like. 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  illustrate the engagement of a male plug connector (e.g., male plug connector  400 ) to a female receptacle connector (e.g., female plug connector  600 ) according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 7A  illustrates a cross section view of male plug connector  400  and female receptacle connector  600  prior to their connection.  FIG. 7B  illustrates a cross section view of male plug connector  400  and female receptacle connector  600  as the connectors are being connected. As shown in  FIG. 7B , each hook of male plug connector  400  can be tilted inward by the walls of female receptacle connector  600 . Each hook, however, can maintain an outward force such that each hook moves along and touches the surface of a wall of female receptacle connector  600 .  FIG. 7C  illustrates a cross section view of male plug connector  400  and female receptacle connector  600  after the connectors have been fully connected. As shown in  FIG. 7C , due to the outward force of the hooks of male plug connector  400 , the hooks can be tilted back to their original positions. As a result, the locking portions of the hooks can enter the inner cavities of female receptacle  600 . In doing so, male plug connector  400  can be sufficiently locked in place with female receptacle connector  600 . 
       FIGS. 8A-8E  illustrate various views of an exemplary unlocking tool  800  (e.g., unlocking tool  208 ) according to one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 8A  illustrates a cross section view of unlocking tool  800 . Unlocking tool  800  can be any device suitable for disengaging a male plug connector from the female receptacle connector of a portable electronic device. As shown in  FIG. 8A , unlocking tool  800  can include user initiation portions  802  and a housing  804 . 
     User initiation portions  802  can be a set of (e.g., two) wire form modules that can be used to disengage the hooks of a male plug connector from a female receptacle connector. User initiation portions  802  can be implemented using any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastic, metal, wood, acrylic, glass, composite material, and/or the like. For example, user initiation portions  802  can be implemented using a suitable metal or composite material with sufficient flexibility such that the initiation portions can be bent in response to the application of a slight force by, for instance, the hand of a user. Following the application of force, the user initiation portions  802  can return to their original positions. 
     In some embodiments, each user initiation portions  802  can include a pin  812 . As shown in  FIG. 8A , pin  812  can be situated at an end of an individual user initiation portion  802 . Each pin  812  can be a segment of an individual user initiation portion  802  that has a reduced or a smaller diameter relative to other parts of the user initiation portion. According to some embodiments, pins  812  can each include a diameter of 0.8 mm or less. In some embodiments, an individual pin  812  can, in response to user application of unlocking tool  800 , access a pathway of a male plug connector and cause a hook of the male plug connector to disengage from a female receptacle connector. Illustratively, a user can apply pressure to portions of user initiation portions  802  (e.g., the portions extending out of cavity  806 , which is described below). Such pressure can cause pins  812  to be moved into the access pathways of a male plug connector, and contact the male plug connector&#39;s hooks. The force of the contact can cause the hooks to be moved, titled, or bent inward such that the hooks can be disengaged from a female receptacle connector. Upon disengagement of the hooks, a user can freely remove the male plug connector from the female receptacle connector. In some embodiments, pins  812  can be of sufficient lengths to enable the pins to pass through the pathways of a male plug connector and disengage the hooks of the male plug connector. 
     In certain embodiments, a portion of each user initiation portion  802  can extend horizontally (e.g., portions  816 ) within a cavity (e.g., cavity  806 , which is described below) of housing  804 . In doing so, the portions can together act to restrict or stop the movement of a male plug connector into the lower portion of the cavity. In doing so, the male plug connector can be vertically aligned with unlocking tool  800 . For example, portions  816  can vertically align pins  812  of the user initiation portions with the access pathways of the male plug connector. 
     Housing  804  can be implemented using any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastic, metal, wood, acrylic, glass, composite material, and/or the like. In some embodiments, for example, housing  804  can be an injection molded plastic housing. According to certain embodiments, housing  804  can be a non-descript color, such as black, white, or various shades of gray. In some embodiments, housing  804  can be generally rectangular. More specifically, the outer and inner surfaces can be substantially rectangular or include mostly straight surfaces. In some embodiments, housing  804  can include surfaces that are slightly curved or rounded. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8A , housing  804  can form a cavity  806 . Cavity  806  can include dimensions that enable the cavity to receive a male plug connector. In certain embodiments, a male plug connector can be received into cavity  806  through a top opening of housing  804 . In some embodiments, the male plug connector can be positioned within cavity  806  such that the access pathways of the male plug connector can be horizontally aligned with pins  812 . By horizontally aligning pins  812  with the pathways, embodiments can enable the pins to be used to disengage a male plug connector from a female receptacle connector. 
     In some embodiments, housing  804  can include bottom openings  810 . According to certain embodiments, bottom openings  810  can be used to receive, for example, a lanyard, a chain, or some other mechanism for enabling a user to carry unlocking tool  800  on his or her person. For example, one end of a lanyard can be threaded into a first opening of the bottom openings. The same end can further be threaded out a second opening of the bottom openings. In doing so, the lanyard can be sufficiently attached to housing  804  such that unlocking tool  800  can be carried by a user. Illustratively, a user can wear, around his or her neck, the lanyard in order to conveniently carry unlocking tool  800 . 
     In some embodiments, housing  804  can include pin openings  814  for receiving pins  812  of user initiation portions  802 . The pin openings can have dimensions such that only pins  812  of user initiation portions  802  can pass through the openings. In particular, once the pins  812  have passed entirely through the openings, walls surrounding openings  814  can restrict or stop the inward movement of user initiation portions  802 . In doing so, housing  804  can enable user initiation portions  802  to be moved sufficiently inward as to disengage the hooks of a male plug connector while preventing the user initiation portion from being moved so far as to cause damage to the hooks or otherwise interfere with the operations of the male plug connector. 
     In some embodiments, housing  804  can include a set of channels  808 , which can receive user initiation portions  802 . In some embodiments, the channels can be filled with an adhesive material, such as glue or epoxy. In doing so, user initiation portions  802  can be mated to housing  804 . 
       FIG. 8B  illustrates a bottom view of unlocking tool  800 . In particular,  FIG. 8B  shows bottom openings  810 , which can be used with a lanyard to enable unlocking tool  800  to be conveniently carried.  FIG. 8C  illustrates an angled view of unlocking tool  800 . In particular,  FIG. 8C  shows user initiation portions  802 , housing  804  and cavity  806 . In addition,  FIG. 8C  shows a front opening  818 .  FIG. 8D  illustrates a cross section view of housing  804  of unlocking tool  800 . As show in  FIG. 8D , housing  804  can include side openings  820 . The side openings  820  can include a length a least several times greater than its width.  FIG. 8E  illustrates a front view of a user initiation portion  802  of unlocking tool  800 . 
     It will be appreciated that the cables, connectors, unlocking tools, and portable electronic devices shown in  FIGS. 3-8  are illustrative and that variations and modifications are possible. For example, certain modules can be removed, added, altered, changed, combined, etc. Illustratively, cable  300  can include a female receptacle connector instead of a male plug connector. 
     It will be further appreciated that the cables, connectors, unlocking tools, and portable electronic devices shown in  FIGS. 3-8  can be adapted to be compatible with other types of connectors (e.g., Firewire connectors, Ethernet connectors, HDMI connectors, eSATA connectors, power connectors, display connectors, etc.). Also, as new connector types are developed, the aforementioned cables, connectors, unlocking tools, and portable electronic devices can also be adapted to be used with those types. 
     Examples of processes that can be used to assemble an unlocking tool and to use an unlocking tool will be described.  FIG. 9  is a flow diagram of a process  900  for manufacturing and assembling an unlocking tool (e.g., unlocking tool  800  of  FIG. 8A ) according to one embodiment of the present invention. At block  902 , housing  804  of unlocking tool  800  can be formed through a suitable injection molding process. At block  904 , user initiation portions  802  can be machined through a suitable machining process. At block  906 , an adhesive material, such as glue or epoxy, can be placed within channels  808  of housing  804 . 
     At block  908 , user initiation portions  802  can be moved through the side openings of housing  804 . In particular, an end of each user initiation portion  802  can be passed horizontally or substantially horizontally through the side openings of housing  804 . Illustratively,  FIG. 10A  shows user initiation portions  802  being moved through side openings  1002  of housing  804 . As shown in  FIG. 10A , the end of an individual user initiation portion that is first moved through the side openings is the end opposite to the end where the user initiation portion&#39;s pin is located. 
     At block  910 , the user initiation portions  802  can be rotated and moved in a downward direction such that the user initiation portions can be vertically positioned. Illustratively,  FIG. 10B  shows user initiation portions  802  as the portions are rotated into a vertical position. Upon being fully rotated and moved downward, the user initiation portions can enter channels  808  of housing  804 . In some embodiments, the user initiation portions can be “snapped” into place with channels  808 .  FIG. 10C  shows user initiation portions fully rotated into the vertical position. By placing user initiation portions  802  into channels  808 , the user initiation portions can be adhered to housing  804 . 
     At block  912 , a sufficient amount of time is permitted to pass in order for the adhesive material to set. At block  914 , a lanyard can be threaded through the bottom openings of housing  804  in order to enable the unlocking tool to be conveniently carried. For example, a user can carry the unlocking tool by wearing the lanyard around his or her neck. As another example, a user can carry the unlocking tool by attaching the lanyard to a belt loop. 
       FIG. 11  is a flow diagram of a process  1100  for disengaging a male plug connector (e.g., male plug connector  400  of  FIG. 4A ) from a female plug connector using an unlocking tool (e.g., unlocking tool  800  of  FIG. 8A ) according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     At block  1102 , unlocking tool  800  can be slid over the cabling portion of a cable. For example, unlocking tool  800  can be moved over the cabling portion such that the cabling portion is placed within the cavity of unlocking tool  800 . In some embodiments, the cabling portion can enter the cavity through the top of unlocking tool  800 . The cabling portion can additionally exit the cavity through the front opening of unlocking tool  800 . At block  1104 , the unlocking tool can be moved along the cabling portion towards the male plug connector (e.g., male plug connector  400  of  FIG. 4A ) of the cable. Upon reaching the male plug connector, unlocking tool  800  can receive the male plug connector through the top of the tool. 
     At block  1106 , the unlocking tool can be aligned with the male plug connector. In particular, unlocking tool  800  can be moved until portions of the user initiation portions (e.g., portions  816  of  FIG. 8A ) of the unlocking tool contact the male plug connector. Such contact can prevent the male plug connector from moving further into the cavity of unlocking tool  800 , and can act to vertically align the access pathways of the male plug connector with the pins of unlocking tool  800 .  FIG. 12A , for example, shows unlocking tool  800  aligned with male plug connector  400 . As shown in  FIG. 12A , the male plug connector can be prevented from moving further into the cavity of unlocking tool  800  by the user initiation portions. As also shown in  FIG. 12A , the access pathways of the male plug connector can be aligned with the pins of the user initiation portions of unlocking tool  800 . 
     At block  1108 , pressure or a force can be applied to the user initiation portions of unlocking tool  800 . For example, a user can apply pressure using his or her thumb and index finger. Referring again to  FIG. 12A , arrows  1202  and  1204  show the areas where pressure can be applied to the user initiation portions. The pressure can cause the pins of the user initiation portions to enter the access pathways of the male plug connector such that the hooks of the male plug connector can be disengaged from a female receptacle connector. Illustratively,  FIG. 12B  shows a cross section view of a male plug connector as the connector is being disengaged from a female receptacle connector. As shown in  FIG. 12B , pins  812  of unlocking tool  800  can contact hooks  406  of male plug connector  400  such that the hooks are moved away from the inner cavities  606  of female receptacle connector  600 . As a result, the male plug connector can be freely removed or disconnected from the female receptacle connector.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20110517
Publication Date: 20140722
Grant Date: 20140722
Priority Date: 20110517
Inventors: DOLCI DOMINIC E.
KWAN ALEXANDER M.
VILLARREAL CESAR LOZANO
DE IULIIS DANIELE G.
SMEENGE JAMES G.
MARIANO RICARDO A.
SPIELMANN VICTORIA A.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01R13/633", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/53283", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49986", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6275", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/633", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49824", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6275", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 47173809