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:
Jul. 17, 2012
Filed:
Mar. 31, 2011
Christine M. Svelnis, Boylston, MA (US);
Jason Nicholson, Westborough, MA (US);
Jeffrey S. Burkhardt, Brookline, NH (US);
Brian F. Davies, Acton, MA (US);
Christine M. Svelnis, Boylston, MA (US);
Jason Nicholson, Westborough, MA (US);
Jeffrey S. Burkhardt, Brookline, NH (US);
Brian F. Davies, Acton, MA (US);
Anderson Power Products, Inc., Sterling, MA (US);
Abstract
An electrical connector housing system includes a plug housing, a receptacle housing, and a latching mechanism. The latching mechanism pivots on pivot posts on one housing and hooks to latching posts on the other housing, thereby securing the mated housings together. Catches on the latch mechanism engage with tabs near the latching posts when the latching mechanism is latched. The catches must be released using a screwdriver or similar tool before opening the latching mechanism and separating the mated housings. A protective barrier can be included to block direct access to the engaged catches and tabs. The housings include overlapping shells which exclude water and dirt, and the latching mechanism at least partially covers and further protects the shells when closed. In embodiments, a retaining mechanism automatically holds the latch open against gravity, facilitating connection and release of the housings with one hand and/or while wearing gloves.