Molex Corporation

David A Pfaffinger

Robert M Fuerst

Yves LePottier

Jonathan D Lohman

Yves Lepottier

Vijy Koshy

Gregory E Avery

Kevin L Putnam

A lever type electrical connector assembly includes a first connector. A mating assist lever is pivotally movably mounted on the first connector. A slide member is linearly movably mounted on the first connector. A first cam groove and cam follower mechanism is provided between the mating assist lever and the slide member, whereby pivotal movement of the lever relative to the first connector effects linear movement of the slide member relative to the first connector. A second connector is provided with a second cam groove and cam follower mechanism between the slide member and the second connector, whereby the connectors are mated and unmated in response to rotation of the mating assist lever and resulting translation of the slide member. A latch member is provided on the slide member and is latchingly engageable with the first connector and releasable by the second connector, whereby the slide member and the mating assist lever cannot move unless the connectors are at least preliminarily mated. Complementary interengaging detents are provided between the latch member and the second connector to render at least a tactile indication that the connectors are at least preliminarily mated. Therefore, the singular latch member performs a dual function of latching the slide member and mating assist lever as well as providing a tactile feedback of the mating condition of the connectors.

Lever type electrical connector with slide members having dual latching and feedback functions

A polarizing system is provided in a connector for electrically interconnecting the conductors of a flat flexible circuit to the conductors of a complementary connecting device. The flat flexible circuit has a longitudinal center-line and a pattern of polarizing holes therein asymmetrical to the center-line. A connector body member positions the flat flexible circuit thereon and has an asymmetrical pattern of polarizing posts insertable into the polarizing holes of the flat flexible circuit.

Polarized connector for flat flexible circuitry

A keying system is provided in a connector assembly for electrically interconnecting the conductors of a flat flexible circuit to the conductors of a complementary connecting device. The assembly includes a first connector having a body member for positioning the flat flexible circuit thereon. A second connector mates with the first connector and includes a pattern of keying projections insertable into a corresponding pattern of keying holes in the flat flexible circuit on the first connector.

Keyed connector assembly for flat flexible circuitry

Growing community of inventors

Holly, MI, United States of America

David A Pfaffinger