Connector holding device

Abstract

The invention relates to a connector holding device, which may include: a frame having a rectangular inner opening for fitting around a body of a connector; the wedge-shaped part extends forwards from the top side part of the frame; a holding jig extending forward from a bottom side portion of the frame; and a rear wall extending inwardly from the frame, the rear wall being engageable with the retention clip to position the frame around the connector. A retaining clip may retain the frame around the connector. The retention clip may include a flange for engagement with a forward facing shoulder of the connector, the socket, or a housing receiving the socket. The flange may cooperate with the rear wall to hold the frame in position around the connector.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 712,980, filed October 28, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to cable connectors, such as connectors conforming to the IEC 60603-7 standard, and more specifically, to the retention of such cable connectors. Background Technology

[0003] In certain usage scenarios and environments, CAT connectors (compliant with IEC 60603-7) may accidentally detach from the interface module or device. This unexpected disconnection can lead to signal loss, communication problems and / or data errors, cable misalignment, interface misalignment, wiring or connection malfunctions, and system and / or process downtime. There is a need in the art to improve the retention of CAT cable connectors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The applicant has created novel and useful devices, systems, and methods for retaining CAT type cable connectors. The connector retaining device according to this disclosure can, for example, retain the connector at least partially within the socket by directly holding the connector in place and / or by preventing the locking tabs of the connector from disengaging. The connector retaining device according to this disclosure allows the user to intentionally disengage the connector before it can be removed from the socket and / or otherwise prevents accidental disconnection.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device according to this disclosure may include a frame having a rectangular inner opening for fitting around the body of the connector, a wedge-shaped portion extending forward from the top side of the frame, a retaining clamp extending forward from the bottom side of the frame, a rear wall extending inward from the frame—the rear wall may cooperate with the retaining clamp to position the frame around the connector, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include a flange for engaging a forward-facing shoulder of the connector to, for example, retain the frame around the connector. In at least one embodiment, the flange may cooperate with the rear wall to retain the frame in place around the connector.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the frame may have a slit extending through one side. In at least one embodiment, the slit may allow the frame to wrap around a cable connected to a connector. In at least one embodiment, the slit may extend through the top side and / or wedge-shaped portion of the frame.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the wedge may have a locking element, such as a locking element located at the proximal end of the wedge. In at least one embodiment, the locking element may selectively engage the slit. In at least one embodiment, the locking element may include a protrusion extending from one portion of the wedge into a cavity within another portion of the wedge. In at least one embodiment, the locking element may include two protrusions, each extending into a cavity on a corresponding portion of the wedge.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the locking element may be a locking tag or include a locking tag for selectively engaging the slit. In at least one embodiment, the locking tag may include at least one forward-extending protrusion configured to slide between at least a portion of the wedge and the frame. In at least one embodiment, the locking tag may include a first forward-extending protrusion for sliding between at least a first portion of the wedge and the frame on a first side of the slit and a second forward-extending protrusion for sliding between at least a second portion of the wedge and the frame on a second side of the slit. In at least one embodiment, the frame and / or the locking tag may include one or more flanges configured to engage the locking tag to the frame. In at least one embodiment, another portion of the locking tag or device, such as the frame, may include an identification element. In at least one embodiment, the identification element may include an identification writing device, identification printout, radio frequency transponder, or any combination thereof that can be engaged to or embedded within another portion of the locking tag or device.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the wedge may have a distal end that is thinner than the proximal end. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may be at least partially fitted between the connector tab and the connector body. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may prevent the connector tab from moving toward the connector body and prevent the connector from being released from the socket when it is in place between the connector tab and the connector body.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure may include a frame, a retaining clamp extending forward from the bottom of the frame, a wedge extending forward from the top of the frame, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may optionally be at least partially disposed between the connector tab and the connector body. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may prevent the connector tab from moving toward the connector body and prevent the connector from being released from the socket when it is positioned between the connector tab and the connector body. In at least one embodiment, the frame may receive at least a portion of the tab therein.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may extend forward of the socket and / or the housing receiving the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include a flange for engaging the socket and / or the housing to retain the connector within the socket. In at least one embodiment, the device may include a retaining strap for holding the retaining clamp adjacent to the connector within the housing and / or the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining strap may be positioned forward of the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include one or more recesses for holding the retaining strap in place.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the wedge-shaped portion may extend forward and upward from the top of the frame. In at least one embodiment, a portion of the wedge-shaped portion, such as a portion near the frame, may have a substantially constant thickness. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the wedge-shaped portion may be thinner than the proximal end. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the wedge-shaped portion may be tapered, and the proximal end may have a substantially constant thickness.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device according to this disclosure may include a frame, a retaining clamp extending forward from the bottom of the frame, a cable clamp extending upward from the top of the frame, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp may clamp a cable extending behind the connector to, for example, secure the connector to a socket.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may extend forward of the socket and / or the housing receiving the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include a flange for engaging the socket and / or the housing to retain the connector within the socket. In at least one embodiment, the device may include a retaining strap for holding the retaining clamp adjacent to the connector within the housing and / or the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining strap may be positioned forward of the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include one or more recesses for holding the retaining strap in place.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp and / or frame may abut against the connector body, for example, when the cable clamp is held to the cable. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp may include a first wing for engaging a first side of the cable and a second wing for engaging a second side of the cable. In at least one embodiment, the first wing and / or the second wing may abut against the connector body. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 It is shown as being installed. Figure 1 A perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0018] Figure 3 It is shown as being mounted on the connector. Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of the connector retaining device.

[0019] Figure 4 It is shown as being installed. Figure 1 Another perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0020] Figure 5 It is shown as being mounted on the connector. Figure 1 A perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the locking tag according to the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 11 It is shown as being installed in Figure 10 On the connector retaining device Figure 9 A 3D view of the locking tag component. Figure 10 The connector retaining device is shown as being mounted on the connector.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure in an open configuration.

[0028] Figure 13 It is shown as closed. Figure 12 A perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0029] Figure 14This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 15 It is shown as installed. Figure 14 A perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0031] Figure 16 It is shown as installed. Figure 14 Partial side cross-sectional view of the connector retaining device.

[0032] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 18 It is shown as installed. Figure 17 A perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0034] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 20 It is shown as installed. Figure 19 A perspective view of the connector retaining device.

[0036] Figure 21 It is shown as installed. Figure 19 Partial side cross-sectional view of the connector retaining device.

[0037] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 23 It is shown as installed. Figure 22 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The accompanying drawings and the following written description of specific structures and functions are not intended to limit the scope of the applicant's invention or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the drawings and written description are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention, which is seeking patent protection. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that not all features of a commercially viable embodiment of the invention are described or illustrated for clarity and understanding. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that the development of a practical commercial implementation incorporating various aspects of the invention will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for a commercial implementation. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, but may not be limited to, compliance with system-related, commercially relevant, governmental-related constraints, and other constraints that may vary over time by specific implementation, location, and context. While the developer's efforts may be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts will be a routine task for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure. It must be understood that the invention disclosed and taught herein is readily adaptable to many and various modifications and alternative forms.

[0040] The use of singular terms such as, but not limited to, “a” is not intended as a limitation on the number of items. Furthermore, for clarity, relational terms such as, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” “below,” “above,” and “side” are used in the written description for clarity when specifically referring to the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or the appended claims. The terms “comprising” and “for example” are illustrative, not restrictive. The terms “connected,” “linked,” “connecting,” “connecting element,” and similar terms are used extensively herein and may include any method or means for fixing, joining, bonding, fastening, attaching, engaging, inserting therein, forming thereon, or in which one or more components are connected, or otherwise, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operatively, directly, or indirectly through intermediate elements, to associate one or more components together, and may also include, but is not limited to, integrally forming one functional component with another functional component in an integral manner. Connections can occur in any direction, including in terms of rotation. Furthermore, all parts and components that can be physically and inherently implemented in this disclosure include both hypothetical and real features, regardless of whether such features are explicitly described herein. These features include, but are not limited to, features such as axis, ends, inner and outer surfaces, internal space, top, bottom, sides, boundaries, dimensions (e.g., height, length, width, thickness), mass, weight, volume, and density.

[0041] The applicant has created new and useful devices, systems, and methods for retaining CAT type cable connectors. The connector retaining device according to this disclosure can, for example, retain the connector at least partially within the socket by directly holding the connector in place and / or by preventing the locking tabs of the connector from disengaging. The connector retaining device according to this disclosure can prevent intentional disengagement by the user before the corresponding connector can be removed from the socket and / or can otherwise prevent unintentional disconnection.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is shown as being installed. Figure 1 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 3 It is shown as being mounted on the connector. Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of the connector retaining device. Figure 4 It is shown as being installed. Figure 1 Another perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 5 It is shown as being mounted on the connector. Figure 1 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of the locking tag according to the present disclosure. Figure 10 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 11 It is shown as being installed in Figure 10 On the connector retaining device Figure 9 A 3D view of the locking tag component. Figure 10 The connector retaining device is shown as being mounted on the connector. Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure in an open configuration. Figure 13 It is shown as closed. Figure 12 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 14 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 15 It is shown as installed. Figure 14 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 16 It is shown as installed. Figure 14 Partial side cross-sectional view of the connector retaining device. Figure 17 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 18 It is shown as installed. Figure 17 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 19 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 20 It is shown as installed. Figure 19 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figure 21 It is shown as installed. Figure 19 Partial side cross-sectional view of the connector retaining device. Figure 22 This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure. Figure 23 It is shown as installed. Figure 22 A perspective view of the connector retaining device. Figures 1 to 23 They are described in combination.

[0043] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device 100 according to this disclosure can retain the connector 200 at least partially within the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the connector 200 can be an Ethernet or networking connector, such as a CAT connector (compliant with IEC 60603-7). In at least one embodiment, the socket 300 can be part of, or operablely coupled to, a server network adapter, network switch, router, hub, other information technology (IT) equipment, or any combination thereof.

[0044] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device 100 according to the present disclosure may include one or more frames 110, one or more wedge-shaped portions 120 extending forward from the frames 110, one or more retaining clamps 130 extending forward from the frames 110, one or more rear walls 140 extending inward from the frames 110, or any combination thereof (see [link to documentation]). Figures 1 to 13 In at least one embodiment, the frame 110 may have a rectangular inner opening for fitting around the body 210 of the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, a wedge 120 may extend forward from the top side of the frame 110. In at least one embodiment, a retaining clamp 130 may extend forward from the bottom side of the frame 110. In at least one embodiment, a rear wall 140 may engage with the retaining clamp 130 to position the frame 110 around the connector 200.

[0045] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may include one or more flanges 132 that may engage the forward-facing shoulder 212 of the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the flanges 132 may retain the frame 110 around the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the flanges 132 may cooperate with the rear wall 140 to hold the frame 110 in place around the connector 200.

[0046] In at least one embodiment, the frame 110 may have one or more slits 112 extending through one or more sides. In at least one embodiment, the slits 112 may allow the frame 110 to open and / or allow the frame 110 to wrap around the cable 220 coupled to the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the slits 112 may be configured to at least partially extend through the top side and / or wedge 120 of the frame 110.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, the device 100 may include one or more locking elements 150, such as closures or other coupling structures, for selectively connecting one or more portions of the wedge 120 together. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the one or more locking elements 150 may be disposed at the proximal end of the wedge 120. In at least one embodiment, the locking elements 150 may be arranged to selectively close the slit 112 or to connect one or more portions of the wedge 120 located on opposite sides of the slit 112.

[0048] In at least one embodiment, the locking element 150 may be fixedly attached to the wedge portion 120 (the locking element 150 may include, but is not necessarily, being integrally formed with the wedge portion 120). For example, the locking element 150 may include a protrusion 152 arranged to extend at least partially from one portion of the wedge portion 120 into a cavity 156 within another portion of the wedge portion 120 and to engage with the cavity 156 and / or the flange 154 to join the portions of the wedge portion together (see, for example...). Figures 12 to 13 The connection can be permanent or removable. Furthermore, although for illustrative purposes, in Figures 12 to 13 Only a single protrusion 152 and cavity 156 are shown in the illustration, but in at least one embodiment, the locking element 150 may include two or more protrusions 152 for engagement with one or more corresponding cavities 156 on a corresponding portion of the wedge 120. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, each portion of the wedge 120 may include a combination of one or more protrusions 152 and one or more cavities 156.

[0049] In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the locking element 150 may be removably coupled to the wedge-shaped portion 120, and at least a portion of the locking element 150 may be securely attached to the wedge-shaped portion 120 (the locking element 150 may include, but is not necessarily, integrally formed with the wedge-shaped portion 120). For example, in at least one embodiment, the locking element 150 may include for selectively engaging with one or more cavities 157 and / or flanges 155 on the wedge-shaped portion 120 to engage one or more locking tags 151 of the slit 112 (see, for example...). Figures 9 to 11 In at least one embodiment, the locking tag 151 may include one or more forward-extending protrusions 153 arranged to slide between at least a portion of the wedge-shaped portion 120 and the frame 110 for engaging the device 100 to the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the locking tag 151 may include a first forward-extending protrusion 153 and a second forward-extending protrusion 153, the first forward-extending protrusion 153 for sliding between at least a first portion of the wedge-shaped portion 120 and the frame 110 on a first side of the slit 112, and the second forward-extending protrusion 153 for sliding between at least a second portion of the wedge-shaped portion 120 and the frame 110 on a second side of the slit 112. In at least one embodiment, the frame 110 and / or the locking tag 151 may include one or more flanges 155, 159 for engaging the locking tag 151 to the frame 110 and / or the wedge-shaped portion 120. In at least one embodiment, the protrusion 153 and / or flange 155 may engage with the cavity 157 and / or flange 159 to retain the locking tag 151 in place and / or keep the slit 112 at least partially closed. In at least one embodiment, removal of the locking tag 151 may be configured to disconnect the slit 112.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, another portion of locking element 150 or device 100, such as frame 110, may include one or more identification elements 160. In at least one embodiment, identification element 160 may include identification writing, identification printing, barcodes, holograms, radio frequency transponders (each of which may be coupled to and / or embedded within another portion of locking element 150 or device 100) or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, identification element 160 may allow a user to assign or attach identification or detailed information specific to connector 200, cable 200, socket 300, or any number of data points related to the connector. In at least one embodiment, an application or code reader may be used to read identification element 160 and / or an application or code reader may be used to write or access data. In at least one embodiment, identification element 160 may provide the user with relevant attributes from locally stored data or an auxiliary database.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the wedge 120 may have a distal end that is thinner than the proximal end. In at least one embodiment, the wedge 120 may be at least partially fitted between the tab 230 of the connector 200 and the body 210 of the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the wedge 120 may prevent the tab 230 of the connector 200 from moving toward the body 210 of the connector 200 and / or prevent the connector 200 from being released from the socket 300 when it is in place between the tab 230 of the connector 200 and the body 210 of the connector 200.

[0052] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device 100 according to the present disclosure may include one or more frames 110, one or more retaining clamps 130 extending from the frames 110, one or more wedges 120 extending from the frames 110, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamps 130 may extend forward from the bottom of the frames 110. In at least one embodiment, the wedges 120 may extend forward from the top of the frames 110. In at least one embodiment, the wedges 120 may optionally be at least partially disposed between the tab 230 of the connector 200 and the body 210 of the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the wedges 200 may prevent the tab 230 of the connector 200 from moving toward the body 210 of the connector 200 and prevent the connector 200 from being released from the socket 300 when the tab 230 of the connector 200 is in place between the tab 230 and the body 210 of the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the frames 110 may be arranged to receive at least a portion therein of the tab 230.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may extend forward toward the socket 300 and / or the housing 310 that receives the socket 300 (see, for example...). Figures 14 to 23 In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may include for engaging the socket 300 and / or the housing 310 to retain the connector 200 in one or more flanges 132 of the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the device 100 may include one or more retaining straps 134 for holding the retaining clamp 130 adjacent to the connector 200 in the housing 310 and / or the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the retaining strap 134 may be positioned in front of the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may include one or more recesses 136 arranged to engage with the retaining strap 134 to hold the retaining strap 134 in place.

[0054] In at least one embodiment, the wedge 120 may extend forward and upward from the top of the frame 110. In at least one embodiment, a portion of the wedge 120, such as a portion near the frame 110, may have at least a substantially constant thickness. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the wedge 120 may be thinner than the proximal end. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the wedge 120 may be tapered, and the proximal end may have at least a substantially constant thickness.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device 100 according to the present disclosure may include one or more frames 110, one or more retaining clamps 130 extending from the frames 110, and one or more cable clamps 170 extending from the frames 110 (see, for example...). Figures 19 to 23 Or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may extend forward from the bottom of the frame 110. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp 170 may extend upward from the top of the frame 110. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp 170 may clamp onto the cable 220 extending behind the connector 200. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp 170 may secure and / or support the connection between the connector 200 and the socket 300.

[0056] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may extend forward of the socket 300 and / or the housing 310 that receives the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may include flanges 132 for engaging the socket 300 and / or the housing 310 to retain the connector 300 in one or more flanges 132 of the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the device 100 may include one or more retaining straps 134 for holding the retaining clamp 130 adjacent to the connector 200 in the housing 310 and / or the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the retaining straps 134 may be positioned forward of the socket 300. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp 130 may include one or more recesses 136 arranged to engage with the retaining straps 134 to hold the retaining straps 134 in place.

[0057] In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp 170 and / or frame 110 may abut against the body 210 of the connector 200, for example, when the cable clamp 170 clamps the cable 220. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp 170 may include one or more wings 172 for engaging the cable 220. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp 170 may include a first wing 172 for engaging a first side of the cable 220 and a second wing 172 for engaging a second side of the cable 220. In at least one embodiment, the first wing 172 and / or the second wing 172 may abut against or be positioned adjacent to the body 210 of the connector 200.

[0058] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device according to this disclosure may include a frame having a rectangular inner opening for fitting around the body of the connector, a wedge-shaped portion extending forward from the top side of the frame, a retaining clamp extending forward from the bottom side of the frame, a rear wall extending inward from the frame—the rear wall may cooperate with the retaining clamp to position the frame around the connector, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include a flange for engaging a forward-facing shoulder of the connector to, for example, retain the frame around the connector. In at least one embodiment, the flange may cooperate with the rear wall to retain the frame in place around the connector.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the frame may have a slit extending through one side. In at least one embodiment, the slit may allow the frame to wrap around a cable connected to a connector. In at least one embodiment, the slit may extend through the top side and / or wedge-shaped portion of the frame.

[0060] In at least one embodiment, the wedge may have a locking element, such as a locking element located at the proximal end of the wedge. In at least one embodiment, the locking element may selectively engage the slit. In at least one embodiment, the locking element may include a protrusion extending from one portion of the wedge into a cavity within another portion of the wedge. In at least one embodiment, the locking element may include two protrusions, each extending into a cavity on a corresponding portion of the wedge.

[0061] In at least one embodiment, the locking element may be or include a locking tag for selectively engaging the slit. In at least one embodiment, the locking tag may include at least one forward-extending protrusion configured to slide between at least a portion of the wedge and the frame. In at least one embodiment, the locking tag may include a first forward-extending protrusion and a second forward-extending protrusion, the first forward-extending protrusion for sliding between at least a first portion of the wedge and the frame on a first side of the slit, and the second forward-extending protrusion for sliding between at least a second portion of the wedge and the frame on a second side of the slit. In at least one embodiment, the frame and / or the locking tag may include one or more flanges configured to engage the locking tag to the frame. In at least one embodiment, another portion of the locking tag or device, such as the frame, may include an identification element. In at least one embodiment, the identification element may include an identification writing element, identification printing element, radio frequency transponder, or any combination thereof that can be engaged to or embedded within another portion of the locking tag or device.

[0062] In at least one embodiment, the wedge may have a distal end that is thinner than the proximal end. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may be at least partially fitted between the connector tab and the connector body. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may prevent the connector tab from moving toward the connector body and prevent the connector from being released from the socket when it is in place between the connector tab and the connector body.

[0063] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure may include a frame, a retaining clamp extending forward from the bottom of the frame, a wedge extending forward from the top of the frame, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may optionally be at least partially disposed between the connector tab and the connector body. In at least one embodiment, the wedge may prevent the connector tab from moving toward the connector body and prevent the connector from being released from the socket when it is positioned between the connector tab and the connector body. In at least one embodiment, the frame may receive at least a portion of the tab therein.

[0064] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may extend forward of the socket and / or the housing receiving the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include a flange for engaging the socket and / or the housing to retain the connector within the socket. In at least one embodiment, the device may include a retaining strap for holding the retaining clamp adjacent to the connector within the housing and / or the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining strap may be positioned forward of the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include one or more recesses for holding the retaining strap in place.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, the wedge-shaped portion may extend forward and upward from the top of the frame. In at least one embodiment, a portion of the wedge-shaped portion, such as a portion near the frame, may have a substantially constant thickness. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the wedge-shaped portion may be thinner than the proximal end. In at least one embodiment, the distal end of the wedge-shaped portion may be tapered, and the proximal end may have a substantially constant thickness.

[0066] In at least one embodiment, the connector retaining device according to the present disclosure may include a frame, a retaining clamp extending forward from the bottom of the frame, a cable clamp extending upward from the top of the frame, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp may clamp a cable extending behind the connector to, for example, secure the connector to a socket.

[0067] In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may extend forward of the socket and / or the housing receiving the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include a flange for engaging the socket and / or the housing to retain the connector within the socket. In at least one embodiment, the device may include a retaining strap for holding the retaining clamp adjacent to the connector within the housing and / or the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining strap may be positioned forward of the socket. In at least one embodiment, the retaining clamp may include one or more recesses for holding the retaining strap in place.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp and / or frame may abut against the connector body, for example, when the cable clamp is held to the cable. In at least one embodiment, the cable clamp may include a first wing for engaging a first side of the cable and a second wing for engaging a second side of the cable. In at least one embodiment, the first wing and / or the second wing may abut against the connector body.

[0069] Without departing from the spirit of the applicant's disclosure, other embodiments and additional embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of this disclosure are conceivable. For example, apparatus, systems, and methods can be implemented for many different types and sizes in many different industries. Furthermore, various methods and embodiments of apparatus, systems, and methods can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. The singular element discussed may include a plural element, and the plural element discussed may include a singular element. Unless otherwise specifically limited, the order of steps can occur in various sequences. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interspersed with stated steps, and / or divided into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been functionally described and can be implemented as individual components or combined into components with multiple functions.

[0070] The invention has been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments, and not every embodiment of the invention has been described. Obvious modifications and variations of the described embodiments will be available to those skilled in the art who will benefit from this disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the invention conceived by the applicant, but rather, in accordance with patent law, the applicant intends to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that fall within the scope or range of equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A connector retaining device, comprising: A frame having a rectangular inner opening configured to fit around the body of a connector; A wedge-shaped portion, extending forward from the top side of the frame and having a distal end thinner than the proximal end; and A retaining clamp extends forward from the bottom side of the frame.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The frame includes a slit through one side, wherein the slit is configured to allow the frame to wrap around a cable connected to the connector.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The slit is configured to pass through the top side portion and the wedge-shaped portion of the frame.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The proximal end of the wedge includes a locking element, wherein the locking element is configured to selectively engage the slit.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The locking element includes a protrusion extending from one portion of the wedge into a cavity within another portion of the wedge.

6. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a locking tag configured to selectively connect the slits.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The locking tag includes at least one forward-extending protrusion configured to slide between at least a portion of the wedge and the frame.

8. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The locking tag includes a first forward-extending protrusion configured to slide between at least a first portion of the wedge and the frame on a first side of the slit, and a second forward-extending protrusion configured to slide between at least a second portion of the wedge and the frame on a second side of the slit.

9. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The locking tag includes at least one flange configured to attach the locking tag to the frame.

10. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The locking tag includes an identification element.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The identification element includes a radio frequency transponder embedded in the locking tag.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining clamp includes a flange configured to engage the forward-facing shoulder of the connector and hold the frame around the connector.

13. The device of claim 1, further comprising a rear wall extending inwardly from the frame and configured to engage with the retaining clamp to position the frame around the connector.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The wedge is configured to at least partially fit between the tab of the connector and the body of the connector, and wherein the wedge is further configured to prevent the tab of the connector from moving toward the body of the connector and to prevent the connector from being released from the socket when the tab of the connector is in place between the tab of the connector and the body of the connector.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an identification element.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The identification element includes a radio frequency transponder embedded within the frame.

Images