Tamper resistant connector assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a tamper resistant connector assembly for limiting access to a latch assembly of a plug connected to a device. The plug cannot be released from the device while the tamper resistant connector assembly is assembled to the plug.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tamper - resistant connector assembly for restricting access to a connector latch assembly that releasably couples a plug to a plug port of a device. Background Art

[0002] Devices such as electrical devices may include a plug for powering the device. This type of plug may include a latch assembly that may be actuated by a user to release the plug from the device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect, a combination is provided that includes a plug and a tamper - resistant connector assembly. The plug provides a connection to a device and includes a front side for connection to a cable, a rear side for connection to a device, and a latch assembly. The device may be a display device that may include a display screen or a graphical user interface (GUI). The device, the plug, and the connector assembly may be used on a material handling vehicle (such as a forklift). The plug may include a first side that includes the latch assembly. The first side may be different from the front side and the rear side of the plug, where the first side may be the upper side of the plug. The latch assembly may move between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device. The tamper - resistant connector assembly is for restricting access to the latch assembly of the plug and includes a first structure, a second structure, and a fastener structure. The first structure is capable of engaging with the plug, adjacent to the latch assembly, and restricts access to the latch assembly such that when the first structure engages with the plug, the latch assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position. The second structure is capable of engaging with the first structure such that when the second structure engages with the first structure, the first structure cannot disengage from the plug. The fastener structure is configured to lock the second structure into engagement with the first structure.

[0004] In one embodiment, the first structure engages with the plug, adjacent to the latch assembly, and restricts access to the latch assembly such that the latch assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position. In this embodiment, the second structure engages with the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug, and the fastener structure locks the second structure into engagement with the first structure.

[0005] The first structure and the second structure may be separate structures.

[0006] The first structure is capable of removably engaging with the plug, where when the first structure is not engaged with the plug, access to the latch assembly is allowed such that the latch assembly can move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0007] The second structure can be lockably engaged to the first structure, and a fastener structure can lockably engage the second structure to the first structure. The second structure can be positioned relative to the first structure in a first position and a second position. The first position of the second structure can include an attachment position at which the second structure is attached to the first structure, and the second position of the second structure can include a separation position at which the second structure is separated from the first structure. The fastener structure can selectively lock the second structure in the first position.

[0008] When the fastener structure locks the second structure into engagement with the first structure, the fastener structure can be fixed to the first structure and form a stop that prevents the second structure from moving from the first position to the second position.

[0009] The second structure can include an extension portion for overlapping at least a portion of the first structure when the second structure is in the first position, wherein the extension portion can serve as a stop to prevent the first structure from being removed from the plug. The first structure can include a recess for receiving the extension portion. The recess of the first structure and the extension portion of the second structure can be correspondingly tapered. The tapered shapes of the recess and the extension portion can prevent the first structure from being pulled away from the plug and / or serve as a positioning aid to ensure that the second structure is installed in the recess in the correct orientation. The extension portion can include a lip for extending over the front surface of the first structure to prevent the first structure from becoming disengaged from the plug.

[0010] The fastener structure can be a removable structure including at least one of a screw, a bolt, or a pin. The fastener structure may require a special tool to actuate the fastener structure to prevent unauthorized persons from making undesired tampering with the connector assembly.

[0011] The fastener structure can be received in openings formed in the respective first and second structures.

[0012] The plug may include an attachment portion having an opening, and the first structure may include an insertion portion for being received by the opening of the attachment portion of the plug, wherein the attachment portion may include an arcuate or U-shaped attachment. The attachment portion may extend outwardly from a first side of the plug. The opening may be defined between the arcuate or U-shaped attachment and an arm member of the latch assembly. Placement of the insertion portion within the opening defined by the attachment portion may prevent the first structure from being lifted (e.g., in an upward direction) away from the plug. Alternatively or additionally, when the first structure is engaged with the plug, a first side of the first structure (which may be an upper side of the first structure) abuts or is in close contact with a shoulder of the device, and a second side of the first structure (which is opposite the first side of the first structure and may be a lower side of the first structure) abuts or is in close contact with the first side of the plug. Thus, when in the engaged position, the first structure may be positioned between the device shoulder and the plug and abut or be in close contact with the device shoulder and the plug, which prevents the first structure from being lifted (e.g., in an upward direction) away from the plug. The first structure may include a cutout portion for receiving the attachment portion of the plug.

[0013] The latch assembly may include an arm member, and the first structure may include a blocking structure for restricting access to the arm member. The blocking structure may include a pair of blocking elements that extend from a body portion of the first structure toward the plug on respective first lateral sides and second lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure is engaged with the plug. The blocking structure may block access to the lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure is engaged with the plug. The blocking structure may include a first blocking element of the first structure and a second blocking element of the second structure, wherein the first blocking element and the second blocking element may enclose the arm member of the latch assembly within the cutout portion of the first structure. The blocking structure may prevent the latch assembly from moving from a locked position to an unlocked position when the first structure is engaged with the plug.

[0014] The first structure may include an insertion portion, and the second structure may include a notch for receiving the insertion portion of the first structure. The notch may provide an alignment aid for the insertion portion such that the first structure is correctly aligned with the second structure.

[0015] According to another aspect, a tamper-resistant connector assembly is provided for selectively allowing and restricting access to a latch assembly of a plug that provides a connection to a device. The device can be a display device, which can include a display screen or a graphical user interface (GUI). The device, the plug, and the connector assembly can be used on a material handling vehicle (such as a forklift). The latch assembly can move between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device. The tamper-resistant connector assembly includes a first structure, a second structure, and a fastener structure. The first structure is removably engageable with the plug, adjacent to the latch assembly. When the first structure is engaged with the plug, access to the latch assembly is restricted such that the latch assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position. When the first structure is not engaged with the plug, access to the latch assembly is allowed such that the latch assembly can move from the locked position to the unlocked position. The second structure can be positioned relative to the first structure in a first position and a second position. When the second structure is in the first position, the second structure engages the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug. When the second structure is in the second position, the first structure can disengage from the plug. The fastener structure is configured to selectively lock the second structure in the first position.

[0016] The first structure and the second structure can be separate structures.

[0017] The first position of the second structure can include an attached position where the second structure is attached to the first structure, and the second position of the second structure can include a detached position where the second structure is detached from the first structure.

[0018] The fastener structure can be a removable structure including at least one of a screw, a bolt, or a pin. The fastener structure may require a special tool to actuate the fastener structure to prevent unauthorized persons from making undesired tampering with the connector assembly.

[0019] When the fastener structure locks the second structure in engagement with the first structure, the fastener structure can be fixed to the first structure and form a stop that prevents the second structure from moving from the first position to the second position.

[0020] The latch assembly may include an arm member, and the first structure may include a blocking structure for restricting access to the arm member. The blocking structure may include a pair of blocking elements that extend from a body portion of the first structure toward the plug on respective first and second lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure engages the plug. The blocking structure may block access to the lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure engages the plug. The blocking structure may include a first blocking element of the first structure and a second blocking element of the second structure, wherein the first and second blocking elements may enclose the arm member of the latch assembly within a cutout portion of the first structure. The blocking structure may prevent the latch assembly from moving from a locked position to an unlocked position when the first structure engages the plug.

[0021] The second structure may include an extension portion for overlapping at least a portion of the first structure when the second structure is in a first position, wherein the extension portion may serve as a stop to prevent the first structure from being removed from the plug. The first structure may include a groove for receiving the extension portion. The groove of the first structure and the extension portion of the second structure may be correspondingly tapered. The tapered shape of the groove and the extension portion may prevent the first structure from being pulled away from the plug and / or serve as a positioning aid to ensure that the second structure is installed in the groove in the correct orientation. The extension portion may include a lip for extending over a front surface of the first structure to prevent the first structure from becoming disengaged from the plug.

[0022] The first structure may include an insertion portion received in an opening defined by an attachment portion of the plug. The attachment portion may include an arcuate or U-shaped attachment. The attachment portion may extend outwardly from a first side of the plug. The opening may be defined between the arcuate or U-shaped attachment and the arm member of the latch assembly. Placement of the insertion portion in the opening defined by the attachment portion may prevent the first structure from being lifted (e.g., in an upward direction) away from the plug. Alternatively or additionally, when the first structure engages the plug, a first side of the first structure (which may be an upper side of the first structure) may abut or be in close contact with a shoulder of the device, and a second side of the first structure (which is opposite the first side of the first structure and may be a lower side of the first structure) may abut or be in close contact with a first side of the plug. Thus, when in the engaged position, the first structure may be positioned between the device shoulder and the plug and abut or be in close contact with the device shoulder and the plug, which prevents the first structure from being lifted (e.g., in an upward direction) away from the plug. The first structure may include a cutout portion for receiving the attachment portion of the plug.

[0023] A fastener structure may be received in openings formed in the respective first and second structures.

[0024] The first structure may include an insertion portion, and the second structure may include a notch for receiving the insertion portion of the first structure. The notch may provide an alignment aid for the insertion portion such that the first structure is correctly aligned with the second structure.

[0025] The anti-tamper connector assembly may be used with a plug that provides a connection to a device. The plug may include a front side for connection to a cable, a rear side for connection to the device, and a latch assembly movable between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device.

[0026] According to yet another aspect, an anti-tamper connector assembly is provided for selectively allowing and restricting access to a latch assembly of a plug that provides a connection to a device. The device may be a display device, which may include a display screen or a graphical user interface (GUI). The device, plug, and connector assembly may be used on a material handling vehicle, such as a forklift. The latch assembly may be movable between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device. The anti-tamper connector assembly includes a first structure, a second structure, and a fastener structure. The first structure is capable of removably engaging with the plug, adjacent to the latch assembly. When the first structure engages with the plug, access to the latch assembly is restricted such that the latch assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position. When the first structure does not engage with the plug, access to the latch assembly is allowed such that the latch assembly can move from the locked position to the unlocked position. The second structure is capable of lockingly engaging with the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug. The fastener structure is configured to lockingly engage the second structure to the first structure.

[0027] The second structure may be positioned relative to the first structure in a first position and a second position, wherein when the second structure is in the first position, the second structure engages with the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug, and when the second structure is in the second position, the first structure is capable of disengaging from the plug.

[0028] The first structure and the second structure may be separate structures.

[0029] The first position of the second structure may include an attachment position where the second structure is attached to the first structure, and the second position of the second structure may include a separation position where the second structure is separated from the first structure.

[0030] The fastener structure may be a removable structure including at least one of a screw, a bolt, or a pin. The fastener structure may require a special tool to actuate the fastener structure to prevent unauthorized tampering with the connector assembly.

[0031] When a fastener structure locks a second structure into engagement with a first structure, the fastener structure can be secured to the first structure and form a stop that prevents the second structure from moving from a first position to a second position.

[0032] The latch assembly can include an arm member, and the first structure can include a blocking structure for restricting access to the arm member. The blocking structure can include a pair of blocking elements that extend from a body portion of the first structure toward the plug on respective first and second lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure is engaged with the plug. The blocking structure can block access to the lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure is engaged with the plug. The blocking structure can include a first blocking element of the first structure and a second blocking element of the second structure, where the first and second blocking elements can enclose the arm member of the latch assembly within a cutout portion of the first structure. The blocking structure can prevent the latch assembly from moving from a locked position to an unlocked position when the first structure is engaged with the plug.

[0033] The second structure can include an extension portion for overlapping at least a portion of the first structure when the second structure is in the first position, where the extension portion can serve as a stop to prevent the first structure from being removed from the plug. The first structure can include a recess for receiving the extension portion. The recess of the first structure and the extension portion of the second structure can be correspondingly tapered. The tapered shape of the recess and the extension portion can prevent the first structure from being pulled away from the plug and / or serve as a positioning aid to ensure that the second structure is installed in the recess in the correct orientation. The extension portion can include a lip for extending above a front surface of the first structure to prevent the first structure from becoming disengaged from the plug.

[0034] The first structure can include an insertion portion received in an opening defined by an attachment portion of the plug. The attachment portion can include an arcuate or U-shaped attachment. The attachment portion can extend outwardly from a first side of the plug. The opening can be defined between the arcuate or U-shaped attachment and the arm member of the latch assembly. Placement of the insertion portion in the opening defined by the attachment portion can prevent the first structure from being lifted (e.g., in an upward direction) away from the plug. Alternatively or additionally, when the first structure is engaged with the plug, a first side of the first structure (which can be an upper side of the first structure) can abut or be in close contact with a shoulder of the device, and a second side of the first structure (which is opposite the first side of the first structure and can be a lower side of the first structure) can abut or be in close contact with a first side of the plug. Thus, when in the engaged position, the first structure can be positioned between the device shoulder and the plug and abut or be in close contact with the device shoulder and the plug, which prevents the first structure from being lifted (e.g., in an upward direction) away from the plug. The first structure can include a cutout portion for receiving the attachment portion of the plug.

[0035] The fastener structure can be received in openings formed in corresponding first and second structures.

[0036] The first structure can include an insertion portion, and the second structure can include a notch for receiving the insertion portion of the first structure. The notch can provide an alignment aid for the insertion portion such that the first structure is properly aligned with the second structure.

[0037] The tamper-resistant connector assembly can be used with a plug that provides a connection to a device. The plug can include a front side for connection to a cable, a rear side for connection to the device, and a latch assembly movable between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 is a front view of a tamper-resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment, showing the tamper-resistant connector assembly secured to a plug on the rear side of an exemplary device;

[0039] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the tamper-resistant connector assembly, plug, and device;

[0040] Figure 3 is a side view of Figure 1 an exploded view of the tamper-resistant connector assembly, plug, and device;

[0041] Figure 4 is Figure 1 an exploded perspective view of the tamper-resistant connector assembly, plug, and device;

[0042] Figure 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 in Figure 4 , with selected portions of the tamper-resistant connector assembly and device removed for clarity;

[0043] Figure 6 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the rear side of the tamper-resistant connector assembly and plug;

[0044] Figure 7 is a front view of an exemplary fastening device of the tamper-resistant connector assembly disclosed herein;

[0045] Figure 8 is a front view of another tamper-resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment, showing the tamper-resistant connector assembly secured to a plug on the rear side of an exemplary device;

[0046] Figure 9 is Figure 8 a perspective view of the tamper-resistant connector assembly, plug, and device;

[0047] Figure 10 as viewed from the side Figure 8 exploded view of a tamper - resistant connector assembly, plug, and device;

[0048] Figure 11 and Figure 12 is Figure 8 exploded perspective view of a tamper - resistant connector assembly, plug, and device;

[0049] Figure 13 is an enlarged cross - sectional view taken along line 13 - 13 in Figure 9 where selected portions of the tamper - resistant connector assembly and the device have been removed for clarity;

[0050] Figure 14 and Figure 15 are perspective views of a first structure and a second structure, respectively, of another tamper - resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment;

[0051] Figure 16 and Figure 17 are perspective views of a first structure and a second structure, respectively, of another tamper - resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment;

[0052] Figure 18 and Figure 19 are perspective views of a first structure and a second structure, respectively, of another tamper - resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment;

[0053] Figures 20 - 23 are perspective views of a first structure, a second structure, and the first and second structures together, respectively, of another tamper - resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment; and

[0054] Figure 24 is a perspective view of a material handling vehicle according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The following text presents a broad description of many different embodiments of the present disclosure. This description is to be construed as merely exemplary and does not describe every possible embodiment, as it would be impractical, if not impossible, to describe every possible embodiment. It should be understood that any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step, or method described herein may be deleted, combined, or substituted in whole or in part with any other feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step, or method described herein. It should be understood that various combinations of the described and illustrated embodiments are contemplated, and a particular focus on one embodiment does not exclude its inclusion in a combination with other described embodiments. Many alternative embodiments can also be implemented using current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, and these will still fall within the scope of the claims. All publications and patents cited herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0056] Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1 - 6 there is shown a tamper - resistant connector assembly 10 (hereinafter referred to as connector assembly 10) according to an embodiment. In Figure 1 and Figure 2 connector assembly 10 is shown secured to the rear side 12A of an exemplary device 12. Figures 1 - 5 The exemplary device 12 shown in

[0057] is a display device, which may include a display screen or a graphical user interface (GUI), but connector assembly 10 can also be used with other types of devices, examples of which include tablet computers, laptop computers, barcode readers, printers, scanners, cable connectors between computing devices, cameras, sensors (such as environmental or specific component sensors (lift height, mileage, etc.)), status displays or lighting devices, communication devices (such as UWB, Bluetooth, WiFi, radio, cellular, etc.).

[0057] Connector assembly 10 can be used with a plug 20 having a front side 20A and a rear side 20B (see Figure 6 ), where the front side 20A faces away from the device 12 when the plug 20 is attached to the device, and the rear side 20B faces the device 12 when the plug 20 is attached to the device. The front side 20A of the plug 20 includes a plurality of first openings 22 for receiving corresponding electrical pins of a cable C ( Figure 24 shows an exemplary cable). As Figure 6 shown, the rear side 20B of the plug 20 includes a plurality of second openings 24 for receiving corresponding electrical pins 25 extending from a plug port 26 located on the rear side 12A of the device 12 (see Figure 3 ), to electrically couple the plug 20 to the device 12 in a conventional manner.

[0058] The first side 30 of the plug 20 (as shown in Figures 1 - 6Shown is the upper side of the plug 20, but it could also be the other side) includes a latch box 31 (see Figures 3 - 5 ), which includes a latch assembly 32 for selectively locking the plug 20 to the device 12 and unlocking it from the device at the plug port 26. As Figure 5 most clearly shown in, the exemplary latch assembly 32 includes an arm member 34 having a first end 36, a second end 38 spaced apart from the first end 36, and a body portion 40 extending between the first end 36 and the second end 38.

[0059] Referring Figure 5 , the first end 36 of the arm member 34 extends outwardly from the first side 30 of the plug 20. When the plug 20 is inserted into the plug port 26, the body portion 40 extends from the first end 36 toward the device 12 and is spaced apart from the first side 30 of the plug 20. The second end 38 of the arm member 34 is free-floating as it is not directly attached to the first side 30 of the plug 20 and hovers above the first side 30 of the plug 20. Since the second end 38 is free-floating, the body portion 40 and the second end 38 of the arm member 34 can move relative to the first side 30 of the plug 20, and the first end 36 of the arm member 34 provides a pivot point, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0060] The second end 38 of the arm member 34 includes at least one locking structure 44 that selectively engages at least one corresponding locking element 46 of the plug port 26 to selectively secure the plug 20 to the plug port 26. As Figure 5 shown, the locking structure 44 can be a protrusion extending in a direction toward the first side 30 of the plug 20 and includes a generally flat first surface 48 facing the first end 36 of the arm member 34. The locking element 46 can be a protrusion including a generally flat second surface 50 facing the rear side 12A of the device 12. When the arm member 34 is in the locked position (otherwise referred to herein as the initial position), the first surface 48 of the locking structure 44 is aligned with the second surface 50 of the locking element 46 to lock the plug 20 to the device 12 at the plug port 26, i.e., when the arm member 34 is in the locked position and the first surface 48 of the locking structure 44 is aligned with the second surface 50 of the locking element 46, preventing the plug 20 from being pulled out of the plug port 26.

[0061] As described above, the body portion 40 and the second end 38 of the arm member 34 can move relative to the first side 30 of the plug 20, and the first end 36 of the arm member 34 provides a pivot point. As the body portion 40 and the second end 38 of the arm member 34 move away from the first side 30 of the plug 20, the latch assembly 32 moves to the unlocked position (otherwise referred to herein as the release position), where the first surface 48 of the locking structure 44 is no longer aligned with the second surface 50 of the locking element 46, where the end 44A of the locking structure 44 (seeFigure 5 ) The movement crosses the end 46A of the locking element 46 (see Figure 5 ), such that the first surface 48 of the locking structure 44 is no longer aligned with the second surface 50 of the locking element 46, thereby allowing the plug 20 to be pulled out from the plug port 26. When the latch assembly 32 is in the locked position, the plug 20 is locked to the plug port 26 and cannot be released from the device 12, and when the latch assembly 32 is in the unlocked position, the plug 20 is unlocked from the plug port 26 and can be pulled away from the rear side 12A of the device 12 by an operator, for example, to release the plug 20 from the device 12. A washer 54 can be provided on the plug 20 to seal the interior of the plug port 26 after the plug 20 is connected to the plug port 26, see Figure 5 .

[0062] Reference Figures 3 - 5 , the latch box 31 of the plug 20 further includes an attachment portion 60 to which the connector assembly 10 can be attached, as described below. The attachment portion 60 according to the present embodiment includes an arcuate or U-shaped attachment member 62 extending outwardly from the first side 30 of the plug 20. An opening 64 is defined within the attachment member 62 (i.e., between the attachment member 62 and the arm member 34), see Figure 4 and Figure 5 .

[0063] It should be noted that the plug 20 and its latch assembly 32 according to the present embodiment are exemplary and other forms can be adopted as needed. For example, other types of plugs and / or other types of latch assemblies can be used, in which an operator can manually actuate the components of the latch assembly to unlock it and thus allow the associated plug to be removed from the plug port into which the plug is inserted.

[0064] Now, the connector assembly 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. As Figure 3 and Figure 4 most clearly shown, the connector assembly 10 includes a first structure 80, a second structure 82, and a fastener structure 84 which, in the illustrated embodiment, includes a first screw 84A and a second screw 84B. It should be noted that other suitable types of fastener structures can be used, including removable fastener structures such as bolts, pins, tamper-resistant fasteners (such as wrench screws, Torx® screws with pins (Torx is a registered trademark of ACUMENT INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES, LLC), one-way security screws, and similar bolts, three-slot security nuts, etc.), and non-removable fastener structures such as rivets, adhesives, breakaway shear nuts, etc. The first structure 80 and the second structure 82 are separate structures that are removably and lockably engaged with each other, as described below.

[0065] The first structure 80 includes a body portion 88, which includes a first side 90 (in the illustrated embodiment, the upper side, which includes a groove 91, see Figure 4 ) and a second side 92 (in the illustrated embodiment, the lower side, and opposite the first side 90). The body portion 88 also includes a front surface 94 and a rear surface 100, see Figure 6 , and the front surface includes a pair of inlet openings 96A, 96B for receiving a first screw 84A and a second screw 84B, respectively (see Figure 4 ). The rear surface 100 includes a pair of outlet openings 102A, 102B that communicate with the respective inlet openings 96A, 96B to allow the first screw 84A and the second screw 84B to protrude from the rear surface 100 of the first structure 80.

[0066] The first structure 80 also includes an insertion portion 110 extending from the body portion 88 (see Figure 3 and Figure 6 ), and when the first structure 80 is in a position engaged with the plug 20, the insertion portion is received by an opening 64 defined by the attachment portion 60 of the plug 20. When in the engaged position, the first structure 80 engages with the attachment portion 60 of the plug 20, and the placement of the insertion portion 110 in the opening 64 defined by the attachment portion 60 of the plug 20 prevents the first structure 80 from being lifted (in the upward direction shown in the figure) away from the plug 20 in the illustrated embodiment. The engaged position of the first structure 80 is most clearly shown in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 , and Figure 3 and Figure 4 show the first structure 80 in a non-engaged position.

[0067] As most clearly shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the first structure 80 according to the present embodiment further includes a blocking structure 120 for restricting access to the arm member 34 of the latch assembly 32 when the first structure 80 is in the engaged position. An exemplary blocking structure 120 according to the present embodiment includes a pair of blocking elements 120A, 120B that, when the first structure 80 engages with the plug 20, are on the respective first lateral sides S1 and second lateral sides S2 of the arm member 34 (see Figure 6)(extends upwardly from the body portion 88 of the first structure 80 towards the plug 20. By blocking access to the lateral sides S1, S2 of the arm member 34, the arm member 34 cannot move, thereby preventing the latch assembly 32 from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position when the first structure 80 engages with the plug 20. That is, when in the engaged position, the first structure 80 restricts access to the arm member 34, thereby preventing the latch assembly 32 from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. When the first structure 80 is not engaged with the plug 20, access to the latch assembly 32 is allowed, such that the latch assembly 32 can move from the locked position to the unlocked position.)

[0068] Reference Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the second structure 82 includes a body portion 130, which includes a front surface 132, a rear surface 134, a first segment 136 (including an upper segment in the illustrated embodiment), a second segment 138 (including a lower segment in the illustrated embodiment), and a left segment 140 and a right segment 142. A first flange 146 and a second flange 148 extend from the respective left segment 140 and right segment 142 at the second segment 138 of the body portion 130, see Figure 6 . The flanges 146, 148 define a first notch 150 and a second notch 152 adjacent to the respective left segment 140 and right segment 142 at the first segment 136 of the body portion 130. The upper surfaces 146A, 148A of the first flange 146 and the second flange 148 define respective abutment surfaces for the first screw 84A and the second screw 84B, and when the second structure 82 is in the first position and the connector assembly 10 is in the fully assembled position on the plug 20, the first screw 84A and the second screw 84B are received in the notches 150, 152, as will be described in detail below. The first position of the second structure 82 includes an attachment position in which the second structure 82 is attached to the first structure 80, and the attachment portion 60 of the plug 20 is located between the first structure 80 and the second structure 82, as Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 6 most clearly shown in. The second position of the second structure 82 includes a separation position in which the second structure 82 is separated from the first structure 80, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown.)

[0069] The second structure 82 according to the present embodiment further includes an extension portion 156 that, when the second structure 82 is in the first position, serves as a stop to prevent the first structure 80 from being removed from the plug 20. The extension portion 156 includes a base 158 that extends laterally from the front surface 132 of the second structure at the first segment 136 and overlaps the first side 90 of the first structure 80 when the second structure 82 is in the first position. The base 158 can be received in the groove 91 of the first structure 80, as Figure 6 most clearly shown in

[0070] The groove 91 formed in the first structure 80 and the base 158 of the extension portion 156 of the second structure can be correspondingly tapered, as Figure 6 most clearly shown in

[0071] According to an embodiment, the connector assembly 10 can be used to prevent access to the latch assembly 32. Specifically, when the connector assembly 10 is mounted on the plug 20 (the first structure 80 is in the engaged position, i.e., engaged with the plug 20, the second structure 82 is in the first position, i.e., attached to the first structure 80, and the fastener structure 84 is installed in the inlet openings 96A, 96B and received in the notches 150, 152), the arm member 34 cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position, so that when the connector assembly 10 is installed, the plug 20 cannot be released from the plug port 26. The attachment portion 60 of the plug 20 existing between the first structure 80 and the second structure 82 prevents the connector assembly 10 from being removed from the plug 20, i.e., the connector assembly 10 can only be removed from the plug 20 when the second structure 82 is removed from the first structure 80. Subsequently, the plug 20 can only be released from the plug port 26 when the connector assembly 10 is removed from the plug 20. When the fastener structure 84 locks the second structure 82 to engage with the first structure 80, the fastener structure 84 is fixed to the first structure 80 and forms a stop that prevents the second structure 82 from moving from the first position to the second position.

[0072] Referring Figure 7 , according to an embodiment, the first screw 84A (the second screw 84B can be the same as the first screw 84A) can have a hole 180 that requires a special tool (such as a Torx® driver) to insert the screw 84A into and remove the screw 84A from the first structure inlet opening 96A. By requiring the use of a special tool to insert / remove the screws 84A, 84B, unauthorized persons (such as vehicle operators) are prevented from tampering with the connector assembly 10 undesirably.

[0073] Now referring Figures 8 - 12 , an anti-tamper connector assembly 310 (hereinafter referred to as the connector assembly 310) is shown according to an embodiment. In Figure 8 and 9 it is shown that the connector assembly 310 is fixed to the rear side 312A of the exemplary device 312. Figures 8 - 12 The exemplary device 312 shown in is a display device, which may include a display screen or a graphical user interface (GUI), but the connector assembly 310 can also be used with other types of devices, examples of which include tablet computers, laptop computers, barcode readers, printers, scanners, cable connectors between computing devices, cameras, sensors (such as sensors for the environment or specific components (lifting height, mileage, etc.)), status displays or lighting devices, communication devices (such as UWB, Bluetooth, WiFi, radio, cellular, etc.).

[0074] The connector assembly 310 can be used with a device having a front side 320A and a rear side 320B (see Figure 10 andFigure 12 is used in conjunction with a plug 320 of (), where the front side 320A faces away from the device 312 when the plug 320 is attached to the device, and the rear side 320B faces the device 312 when the plug 320 is attached to the device. The front side 320A of the plug 320 includes a plurality of first openings 322 for receiving corresponding electrical pins of the cable C ( Figure 24 An exemplary cable is shown in). The rear side 320B of the plug 320 includes a plurality of second openings 324 for receiving corresponding electrical pins 325 extending from a plug port 326 located on the rear side 312A of the device 312 (see Figure 11 ), and electrically connecting the plug 320 to the device 312 in a conventional manner.

[0075] A first side 330 of the plug 320 (as Figures 8 - 11 shown as the upper side of the plug 320, but can also be the other side) includes a latch box 331 (see Figure 11 ), and the latch box includes a latch assembly 332 for selectively locking the plug 320 to the device 312 and unlocking it from the device at the plug port 326. As Figure 13 most clearly shown, an exemplary latch assembly 332 includes an arm member 334 having a first end 336, a second end 338 spaced apart from the first end 336, and a body portion 340 extending between the first end 336 and the second end 338.

[0076] Referring to Figure 13 , the first end 336 of the arm member 334 extends outwardly from the first side 330 of the plug 320. When the plug 320 is inserted into the plug port 326, the body portion 340 extends from the first end 336 toward the device 312 and is spaced apart from the first side 330 of the plug 320. The second end 338 of the arm member 334 is freely floating because it is not directly attached to the first side 330 of the plug 320 and hovers above the first side 330 of the plug 320. Since the second end 338 is freely floating, the body portion 340 and the second end 338 of the arm member 334 can move relative to the first side 330 of the plug 320, and the first end 336 of the arm member 334 provides a pivot point, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0077] The second end 338 of the arm member 334 includes at least one locking structure 344 that selectively engages at least one corresponding locking element 346 of the plug port 326 to selectively fix the plug 320 to the plug port 326. As Figure 13As shown, the locking structure 344 can be a protrusion extending in a direction toward the first side 330 of the plug 320, and includes a generally flat first surface 348 facing the first end 336 of the arm member 334. The locking element 346 can be a protrusion including a generally flat second surface 350 facing the rear side 312A of the device 312. When the arm member 334 is in the locked position (otherwise referred to herein as the initial position), the first surface 348 of the locking structure 344 is aligned with the second surface 350 of the locking element 346 to lock the plug 320 to the device 312 at the plug port 326, that is, when the arm member 334 is in the locked position and the first surface 348 of the locking structure 344 is aligned with the second surface 350 of the locking element 346, preventing the plug 320 from being pulled out of the plug port 326.

[0078] As described above, the body portion 340 and the second end 338 of the arm member 334 can move relative to the first side 330 of the plug 320, and the first end 336 of the arm member 334 provides a pivot point. As the body portion 340 and the second end 338 of the arm member 334 move away from the first side 330 of the plug 320, the latch assembly 332 moves to the unlocked position (otherwise referred to herein as the release position), where the first surface 348 of the locking structure 344 is no longer aligned with the second surface 350 of the locking element 346, where the end 344A of the locking structure 344 (see Figure 13 ) moves past the end 346A of the locking element 346 (see Figure 13 ), such that the first surface 348 of the locking structure 344 is no longer aligned with the second surface 350 of the locking element 346, thereby allowing the plug 320 to be pulled out of the plug port 326. When the latch assembly 332 is in the locked position, the plug 320 is locked to the plug port 326 and cannot be released from the device 312, and when the latch assembly 332 is in the unlocked position, the plug 320 is unlocked from the plug port 326 and can be released from the device 312, for example, by an operator pulling the plug 320 away from the rear side 312A of the device 312. A gasket 354 can be provided on the plug 320 to seal the interior of the plug port 326 after the plug 320 is connected to the plug port 326, see Figure 13 .

[0079] Referring to Figure 11 and Figure 13 , the latch box 331 of the plug 320 further includes an attachment portion 360 to which the connector assembly 310 can be attached, as described below. The attachment portion 360 according to this embodiment includes an arcuate or U-shaped attachment 362 extending outward from the first side 330 of the plug 320. An opening 364 is defined within the attachment 362 (i.e., between the attachment 362 and the arm member 334).

[0080] It should be noted that the plug 320 and its latch assembly 332 according to this embodiment are exemplary and may take other forms as needed. For example, other types of plugs and / or other types of latch assemblies may be used, where the operator can manually actuate the components of the latch assembly to unlock it and thus allow the associated plug to be removed from the plug port into which the plug is inserted.

[0081] The connector assembly 310 according to the present embodiment will now be described. As Figure 10 and 11 most clearly shown, the connector assembly 310 includes a first structure 380, a second structure 382, and a fastener structure 384. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener structure includes a first screw 384A and a second screw 384B. It should be noted that other suitable types of fastener structures may be used, including removable fastener structures such as bolts, pins, tamper-resistant fasteners (such as wrench screws, Torx® screws with pins, one-way security screws, and similar bolts, three-slot security nuts, etc.), and non-removable fastener structures such as rivets, adhesives, breakaway shear nuts, etc. The first structure 380 and the second structure 382 are separate structures that are removably and lockably engaged with each other, as described below.

[0082] The first structure 380 includes a body portion 388 that includes a first side 390 (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment) and a second side 392 (see Figure 10 and 12 ), which is the lower side in the illustrated embodiment and is opposite the first side 390). The body portion 388 also includes a front surface 394 and a rear surface 400, see Figure 12 , and the front surface includes a pair of inlet openings 396A, 396B for receiving the first screw 384A and the second screw 384B, respectively (see Figure 11 ). The rear surface 400 includes a pair of outlet openings 402A, 402B that communicate with the corresponding inlet openings 396A, 396B to allow the first screw 384A and the second screw 384B to protrude from the rear surface 400 of the first structure 380.

[0083] When the first structure 380 is in a position engaged with the plug 320, the first side 390 of the first structure 380 abuts or is in close contact with the shoulder 500 of the device 312 facing the plug port 326, and the second side 392 of the first structure 380 abuts or is in close contact with the first side 330 of the plug 320, see Figure 8 and Figure 9Thus, when in the engaged position, the first structure 380 is positioned between the device shoulder 500 and the plug 320 and abuts or is in close contact with the device shoulder 500 and the plug 320, which prevents the first structure 380 from being lifted (as shown in the upward direction) away from the plug 320. The engaged position of the first structure 380 is most clearly shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 and Figures 10 - 12 shows the first structure 380 in the non-engaged position.

[0084] As Figure 11 and Figure 12 most clearly shown, the first structure 380 according to the present embodiment includes an insertion portion 410 extending from the rear surface 400 at the first side 390. A cutout portion 502 is defined in the rear surface 400 of the body portion 388 of the first structure 380. When the first structure 380 is in the engaged position, the attachment 362 of the latch box 331 is received in the cutout portion 502, as will be described in more detail below.

[0085] Referring to Figures 10 - 12 , the second structure 382 includes a body portion 430 that includes a front surface 432, a rear surface 434, a first segment 436 (including an upper segment in the illustrated embodiment), a second segment 438 (including a lower segment in the illustrated embodiment), and a left side segment 440 and a right side segment 442. First and second openings 450A, 450B (see Figure 11 ) are located in the front surface 432 of the body portion 430 and the corresponding left and right side segments 440, 442. When the second structure 382 is in the first position and the connector assembly 310 is in the fully assembled position on the plug 320, the openings 450A, 450B receive the first and second screws 384A, 384B, as will be described in detail below. The first position of the second structure 382 includes an attachment position in which the second structure 382 is attached to the first structure 380, and the attachment portion 360 of the plug 320 is located in the cutout portion 502 of the first structure 380 and between the first and second structures 380, 382, as Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 13 most clearly shown. The second position of the second structure 382 includes a separation position in which the second structure 382 is separated from the first structure 380, as Figures 10 - 12 shown.

[0086] The second structure 382 according to the present embodiment further includes a notch 456 that receives the insertion portion 410 of the first structure 380 when the second structure 382 is in the first position. The notch 456 can provide an alignment aid for the insertion portion 410 such that the first structure 380 is properly aligned with the second structure 382, i.e., such that the first and second screws 384A, 384B can extend through the inlet openings 396A, 396B and outlet openings 402A, 402B of the first structure 380 and through the openings 450A, 450B in the second structure 382. Insertion of the insertion portion 410 into the notch 456 can also serve as a stop to prevent movement of the first structure 380 relative to the second structure 382 in the lateral direction L D (see Figure 11 ).

[0087] The connector assembly 310 according to the present embodiment further includes a blocking structure 420 (see Figure 12 ), for restricting access to the arm member 334 of the latch assembly 332 when the first structure 380 is in the engaged position and the second structure 382 is in the first position. An exemplary blocking structure 420 according to the present embodiment includes a first blocking element 420A of the first structure 380 adjacent to a cutout portion 502 (see Figure 11 ) on a first lateral side S1 of the arm member 334, and a second blocking element 420B of the second structure 380 adjacent to a cutout portion 502 (see Figure 11 ) on a second lateral side S2 of the arm member 334. Thus, the first and second blocking elements 420A, 420B enclose the arm member 334 of the latch assembly 332 within the cutout portion 502 of the first structure 380.

[0088] By blocking access to the arm member 334, the arm member 334 cannot move, thereby preventing the latch assembly 332 from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position when the first structure 380 is engaged with the plug 320 and the second structure 382 is in the first position. That is, when the first structure 380 is in the engaged position and the second structure 382 is in the first position, the first structure and the second structure 380, 382 restrict access to the arm member 334, thereby preventing the latch assembly 332 from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. When the first structure 380 is not engaged with the plug 320 and the second structure 382 is in the second position, access to the latch assembly 332 is allowed, such that the latch assembly 332 can move from the locked position to the unlocked position. Thus, when the connector assembly 310 is installed on the plug 320 (the first structure 380 is in the engaged position, i.e., engaged with the plug 320, the second structure 382 is in the first position, i.e., attached to the first structure 380, and the fastener structure 384 is installed in the inlet openings 396A, 396B and the outlet openings 402A, 402B of the first structure 380 and the openings 450A, 450B in the second structure 382), the plug 320 cannot be released from the plug port 326. The attachment portion 360 of the plug 320 existing between the first structure and the second structure 380, 382 prevents the connector assembly 310 from being removed from the plug 320. That is, the connector assembly 310 can only be removed from the plug 320 when the second structure 382 is removed from the first structure 380. Subsequently, the plug 320 can only be released from the plug port 326 when the connector assembly 310 is removed from the plug 320. When the fastener structure 384 locks the second structure 382 to be engaged with the first structure 380, the fastener structure 384 is fixed to the first structure 380 and forms a stopper that prevents the second structure 382 from moving from the first position to the second position.

[0089] Figure 14 and Figure 15 respectively depict the first structure and the second structure 80, 82 of a tamper - resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment. Although the first structure and the second structure 80, 82 according to the present embodiment have moderately different appearances, they are substantially similar to the first structure and the second structure 80, 82 of the connector assembly 10 described herein with reference to Figures 1 - 6 and only the significant differences between these corresponding structures will be specifically discussed herein.

[0090] Reference Figure 14 , according to the present embodiment, the first structure 80 includes a single blocking structure 120 for restricting access to the arm member of the latch assembly when the first structure 80 is in a position engaged with the plug (the plug according to the present embodiment can be the same as that described above for Figures 1 - 6is the same as the plug 20). A single blocking structure 120 according to the present embodiment is positioned in front of the arm member 34 to limit access thereto. Although the appearance of other parts of the first structure 80 according to the present embodiment may be slightly different from the appearance of the first structure 80 according to Figures 1 - 6 the embodiment, the functions are the same, and thus will not be specifically repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0091] Now turning to Figure 15 , the configuration of the second structure 82 according to the present embodiment is substantially similar to the second structure 82 according to Figures 1 - 6 the embodiment, and thus will not be specifically repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0092] Figure 16 and Figure 17 respectively depict the first structure and the second structure 380, 382 of the tamper-resistant connector assembly according to the embodiment. The first structure and the second structure 380, 382 according to the present embodiment are substantially similar to the first structure and the second structure 380, 382 of the connector assembly 310 described herein with reference to Figures 8 - 13 , and only the significant differences between these corresponding structures will be specifically discussed herein.

[0093] Referring to Figure 16 , the second inlet opening 396B and the corresponding second outlet opening 402B of the first structure 380 according to the present embodiment are located in a stepped portion 600 extending from the lateral side of the body portion 388 of the first structure 380. Except for the positions of the second inlet opening and the second outlet opening 396B, 402B in the stepped portion 600, the configuration of the first structure 380 according to the present embodiment is substantially similar to the first structure 380 according to Figures 8 - 13 the embodiment, and thus will not be specifically repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0094] Now turning to Figure 17 , the second structure 382 according to the present embodiment is slightly wider than the second structure 382 according to Figures 8 - 13 the embodiment. As described above, the larger width is provided to accommodate the positioning of the second inlet opening and the second outlet opening 396B, 402B in the stepped portion 600 of the first structure 380. Except for the change in width, the configuration of the second structure 382 according to the present embodiment is substantially similar to the second structure 382 according to Figures 8 - 13 the embodiment, and thus will not be specifically repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0095] Figure 18 and Figure 19Separate depictions show a first structure and a second structure 80, 82 of a tamper - resistant connector assembly according to an embodiment. Although the first structure 80 and the second structure 82 according to this embodiment have slightly different appearances, they are substantially similar to the first structure 80 and the second structure 82 of the connector assembly 10 described herein with reference to Figure 14 and Figure 15 , and only the significant differences between these corresponding structures will be specifically discussed herein.

[0096] Referring to Figure 18 , the main difference between the first structure 80 according to this embodiment and the first structure 80 according to Figure 14 is that the components including the outlet openings 102A, 102B have a tapered profile when they extend on the second side 92 away from the body portion 88. Although the appearance of other parts of the first structure 80 according to this embodiment may be slightly different from the appearance of the first structure 80 of the embodiment according to Figures 1 - 6 and / or Figure 14 , the functions are the same, and thus will not be specifically repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0097] Now turning to Figure 19 , the construction of the second structure 82 according to this embodiment is substantially similar to the second structure 82 of the embodiment according to Figures 1 - 6 and Figure 15 , and thus will not be specifically repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0098] Now referring to Figures 20 - 23 , Figure 20 and Figure 21 show a first structure 380 and a second structure 382 of a tamper - resistant connector 310 assembly according to an embodiment, Figure 22 shows the tamper - resistant connector 310 engaged with the plug 320, Figure 23 is a partially exploded view showing the tamper - resistant connector 310, the plug 320, and an exemplary device 312. The first structure 380 and the second structure 382 according to this embodiment are similar to the first structure 380 and the second structure 382 of the connector assembly 310 described with reference to Figure 16 and Figure 17 , and only the significant differences between these corresponding structures will be specifically discussed herein.

[0099] Referring to Figure 20 , the body portion 388 of the first structure 380 according to this embodiment has a different shape but includes the same functions as the first structure 380 according to Figure 16 . The first inlet opening 396A and the second inlet opening 396B of the first structure 380 according to this embodiment (see Figure 23)(and corresponding first and second outlet openings 402A and 402B) are located in stepped portions 600A, 600B extending from respective lateral sides of the body portion 388 of the first structure 380. A recess 602 is formed in the second side 392 of the body portion 388, where when the first structure 380 is in a position engaged with the plug 320, the recess 602 is positioned adjacent to the arm member 334 of the latch assembly 332, see Figure 22 . A tongue member 604 of the first structure 380 extends from the first side 390 of the body portion 388 (opposite the recess 602). The tongue member 604 can serve as an alignment aid for correctly positioning the first structure 380 in engagement with the second structure 382 and the plug 320, and can further provide coverage for components of the latch assembly 332. Although the appearance of the first structure 380 according to the present embodiment is significantly different from that of the first structure 380 according to the Figure 16 embodiment, its function is substantially the same, and thus will not be specifically repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0100] Now turning to Figure 21 , a first opening 450A of the second structure 382 according to the present embodiment is located in the body portion 340 rather than in the right side section 442 as described in the Figure 17 embodiment. The second structure 382 according to the present embodiment further includes a recess 610 that aligns with the recess 602 formed in the first structure 380 when the tamper-resistant connector 310 according to the present embodiment is mounted on the plug 320. The recess 610 can serve as an alignment aid for correctly positioning the second structure 382 and provides space to accommodate the arm member 334 of the latch assembly 332 when the first structure 380 is in the engaged position and the second structure 382 is in the first position. Except for these differences, the construction of the second structure 382 according to the present embodiment is substantially similar to that of the second structure 382 according to the Figure 17 embodiment, and thus will not be specifically repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0101] According to an exemplary embodiment, the device 12 / 312 and the connector assembly 10 / 310 can be used on a material handling vehicle 14 (such as a forklift), see Figure 24 . The vehicle 14 can include a power source 16 (such as a battery) and a controller 18 that communicates with various systems within the vehicle 14 in a conventional manner. Figure 24 The illustrated vehicle 14 includes such exemplary devices 12 / 312 that can utilize the connector assembly 10 / 310 disclosed herein. The device 12 / 312 can receive power from the vehicle 14 via a cable C in a conventional manner. The cable C can also provide communication between the device 12 / 312 and the controller 18 in a conventional manner.

[0102] Embodiments disclosed herein limit access to or actuation of a connector latch assembly for releasably coupling a plug to a plug port of a device. Additionally, fasteners for securing the connector assembly increase the level of force application required to gain access to the plug and connector pins, such that a deliberate act is required to break the connector assembly and gain access to these pins.

[0103] Additionally, the various features, aspects, and embodiments described herein may be used in any combination with each other or alone.

[0104] Having described embodiments in such detail, it is apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An assembly, comprising: A plug that provides connection to a device, the plug comprising: A front side configured to connect to a cable; A rear side configured to connect to the device; and A latch assembly movable between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device; and A tamper-resistant connector assembly configured to restrict access to the latch assembly of the plug, the tamper-resistant connector assembly comprising: A first structure engageable with the plug, adjacent to the latch assembly, wherein the first structure restricts access to the latch assembly such that when the first structure is engaged with the plug, the latch assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position; A second structure engageable with the first structure such that when the second structure is engaged with the first structure, the first structure cannot disengage from the plug; and A fastener structure for locking the second structure in engagement with the first structure.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first structure and the second structure are separate structures.

3. The assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first structure is removably engageable with the plug, and when the first structure is not engaged with the plug, access to the latch assembly is permitted such that the latch assembly can move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

4. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the second structure is lockably engageable with the first structure, and the fastener structure lockably engages the second structure with the first structure.

5. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the second structure is positionable relative to the first structure in a first position and a second position, the first position of the second structure including an attached position where the second structure is attached to the first structure, and the second position of the second structure including a detached position where the second structure is separated from the first structure.

6. The assembly according to claim 5, wherein when the fastener structure locks the second structure in engagement with the first structure, the fastener structure is fixed to the first structure and forms a stop preventing the second structure from moving from the first position to the second position.

7. The assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the second structure includes an extension portion configured to overlap at least a portion of the first structure when the second structure is in the first position, wherein the extension portion serves as a stop preventing the first structure from being removed from the plug.

8. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first structure includes a groove for receiving the extension portion.

9. The assembly according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the extension portion includes a lip for extending over the front surface of the first structure to prevent the first structure from disengaging from the plug.

10. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the fastening structure is a removable structure including at least one of a screw, a bolt or a pin.

11. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the fastening structure is receivable in openings formed in the respective first and second structures.

12. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the plug includes an attachment portion having an opening, and the first structure includes an insertion portion for being received in the opening of the attachment portion of the plug.

13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the attachment portion includes an arcuate or U-shaped attachment.

14. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein the latch assembly includes an arm member, and the first structure includes a blocking structure for restricting access to the arm member.

15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the blocking structure includes a pair of blocking elements that extend from a body portion of the first structure toward the plug on respective first and second lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure is engaged with the plug.

16. The assembly according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the first structure includes an insertion portion, and the second structure includes a notch for receiving the insertion portion of the first structure.

17. A tamper-resistant connector assembly for selectively allowing and restricting access to a latch assembly of a plug that provides a connection to a device, the latch assembly being movable between a locked position in which the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position in which the plug can be released from the device, the tamper-resistant connector assembly comprising: a first structure that is removably engageable with the plug, adjacent to the latch assembly, wherein when the first structure is engaged with the plug, access to the latch assembly is restricted such that the latch assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position, and when the first structure is not engaged with the plug, access to the latch assembly is allowed such that the latch assembly can move from the locked position to the unlocked position; a second structure that is positionable relative to the first structure in a first position and a second position, wherein when the second structure is in the first position, the second structure engages the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug, and when the second structure is in the second position, the first structure can disengage from the plug; and a fastening structure for selectively locking the second structure in the first position.

18. An anti-tampering connector assembly for selectively allowing and restricting access to a latching assembly of a plug that provides a connection to a device, the latching assembly being movable between a locked position where the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position where the plug can be released from the device, the anti-tampering connector assembly comprising: A first structure that is removably engageable with the plug, adjacent to the latching assembly, wherein when the first structure is engaged with the plug, access to the latching assembly is restricted such that the latching assembly cannot move from the locked position to the unlocked position, and when the first structure is not engaged with the plug, access to the latching assembly is allowed such that the latching assembly can move from the locked position to the unlocked position; A second structure that is lockably engageable to the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug; And A fastener structure for lockably engaging the second structure to the first structure.

19. The anti-tampering connector assembly according to claim 18, wherein the second structure is positionable relative to the first structure in a first position and a second position, wherein when the second structure is in the first position, the second structure engages the first structure such that the first structure cannot disengage from the plug, and when the second structure is in the second position, the first structure can disengage from the plug.

20. The anti-tampering connector assembly according to any one of claims 17-19, wherein the first structure and the second structure are separate structures.

21. The anti-tampering connector assembly according to claim 17 or any one of claims 19-20, wherein the first position of the second structure includes an attached position where the second structure is attached to the first structure, and the second position of the second structure includes a separated position where the second structure is separated from the first structure.

22. The anti-tampering connector assembly according to any one of claims 17-21, wherein the fastener structure is a removable structure that includes at least one of a screw, a bolt, or a pin.

23. The anti-tampering connector assembly according to claim 17 or any one of claims 19-22, wherein when the fastener structure locks the second structure in engagement with the first structure, the fastener structure is fixed to the first structure and forms a stop that prevents the second structure from moving from the first position to the second position.

24. The anti-tampering connector assembly according to any one of claims 17-23, wherein the latching assembly includes an arm member, and the first structure includes a blocking structure for restricting access to the arm member.

25. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to claim 24, wherein the blocking structure includes a pair of blocking elements that extend from a body portion of the first structure toward the plug on respective first and second lateral sides of the arm member when the first structure engages the plug.

26. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to any one of claims 17 or 19 - 25, wherein the second structure includes an extension portion that is adapted to overlap at least a portion of the first structure when the second structure is in the first position, and wherein the extension portion serves as a stop to prevent removal of the first structure from the plug.

27. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to claim 26, wherein the first structure includes a groove for receiving the extension portion.

28. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the extension portion includes a lip that extends over a front surface of the first structure to prevent the first structure from disengaging from the plug.

29. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to any one of claims 17 - 28, wherein the first structure includes an insertion portion for receipt in an opening defined by an attachment portion of the plug.

30. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to claim 29, wherein the attachment portion includes an arcuate or U-shaped attachment.

31. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to any one of claims 17 - 30, wherein the fastener structure is receivable in openings formed in the respective first and second structures.

32. The tamper-resistant connector assembly according to any one of claims 17 - 31, wherein the first structure includes an insertion portion and the second structure includes a notch for receiving the insertion portion of the first structure.

33. An assembly that includes the tamper-resistant connector assembly according to any one of claims 17 - 32, and further includes: a plug that provides a connection to a device, the plug including: a front side adapted to connect to a cable; a rear side adapted to connect to the device; and a latch assembly that is movable between a locked position in which the plug cannot be released from the device and an unlocked position in which the plug can be released from the device.

Images