The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Sep. 04, 1979
Filed:
Feb. 09, 1978
Henry O Herrmann, Jr, Mt. Joy, PA (US);
AMP Incorporated, Harrisburg, PA (US);
Abstract
A high voltage, quick disconnect electrical connector assembly is disclosed formed from entirely dielectric members which assure rapid disconnection of the assembly even in the unlikely event of jamming of the normal disconnect mechanism. The connector assembly includes a pair of mating housing members with latching inserts fixed in a receptacle member and engaging in a plug member of the assembly. The quick disconnect feature is provided by an annular shroud member which slides axially on the receptacle member between a first position in which the latching inserts are in a normally outward position allowing free insertion of the plug into the receptacle and a second position in which the shroud biases the latching inserts so that lobes on the free ends thereof project into respective detents in the plug portion to lock the connector members together. The latching inserts each are provided with a narrow cross-sectioned neck portion which will break upon application of a predetermined force, in the event of jamming of the regular disconnect mechanism. A wiping seal is provided adjacent the free end of the shroud to perform a sealing function between connector members during disconnection to prevent arcs generated during disconnection from coming in contact with the external and possibly explosive environment. Thus the assembly is substantially explosion proof, even in an explosive environment, and fail safe in disconnection.