Molex Corporation

Kevin L Putnam

Yves Lepottier

Vijy Koshy

David A Pfaffinger

Gregory E Avery

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.

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Attica, MI, United States of America

Kevin L Putnam