Adapter, electrical connector and electronic system

Abstract

An adapter, an electrical connector, and an electronic system are disclosed that utilize the connector to enable quick connection and release of devices while maintaining or improving connection reliability. The adapter is configured to be fixedly disposed on the device. The device has a mating surface and a card edge configured to mate with the connector. The adapter includes a body disposed on the top of the device and extending beyond the mating surface of the device for insertion into the upper slot of the outer housing of the connector. The adapter includes a latch movably connected to the body and configured to lock and unlock with the connector. An outer housing of the connector includes an upper slot and a lower slot stacked below the upper slot and holding an inner housing therein. The inner housing holds the conductive element and has a slot configured to receive a card edge of the device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to interconnection systems for interconnecting electronic components, such as interconnection systems including electrical connectors. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic systems (e.g., smartphones, tablets, desktop computers, digital cameras) can be manufactured as a collection of individual electronic components that engage with electrical connectors. For example, a known architecture of an electronic system has a printed circuit board (PCB), sometimes called a motherboard, to which many electronic components are mounted. For instance, in a server, the motherboard may contain a processor and support chips. Other electronic components, such as solid-state memory, can be mounted on separate PCBs (sometimes called daughter cards). Daughter cards can be inserted into ports of connectors mounted to the motherboard for interconnection with the electronic components on the motherboard. Utility Model Content

[0003] This disclosure relates to equipment adapters and their electrical connectors.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an adapter is provided configured to attach to a device to mechanically support the device when the device is connected to an electrical connector, the adapter comprising: a body including a rear portion and a tongue configured to engage a top of the device, the tongue extending from the rear portion; a latch including a beam having a proximal end connected to the tongue of the body and a distal end opposite to the proximal end; and an arm connected to the rear portion of the body and configured to attach to a corner of the device.

[0005] Preferably, the bridging member is connected to the rear portion of the body and includes a portion disposed above the rear portion of the body. The beam is movably disposed between the body and the portion of the bridging member disposed above the rear portion of the body.

[0006] Preferably, the beam includes protrusions with inclined surfaces.

[0007] Preferably, the beam includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being positioned closer than the first portion to the portion of the bridging member located above the rear portion of the body; and the second portion is T-shaped.

[0008] Preferably, the beam is a first beam; and the latch includes a second beam and a channel between the first beam and the second beam, the second beam having a proximal end connected to the tongue of the body and a distal end opposite to the proximal end.

[0009] Preferably, the second beam is symmetrical to the first beam; and the latch includes a rod connecting the distal end of the first beam and the distal end of the second beam.

[0010] Preferably, the arm includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending beyond the rear portion of the body, and the second portion having an opening configured to receive a fastener.

[0011] Preferably, the arm includes a transition portion connecting the first portion and the second portion.

[0012] Preferably, the first portion of the arm includes a protrusion that projects toward the body.

[0013] Preferably, the tongue of the body includes a mating portion configured to engage with the device.

[0014] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, an electrical connector is provided, comprising: a housing including an upper slot, a lower slot, and an extension extending beyond the lower slot in a mating direction; an inner housing disposed in the lower slot of the housing and including a slot; and a plurality of conductive elements disposed in the inner housing, each of the plurality of conductive elements including a mating end, a tail portion, and an intermediate portion, the mating end being disposed in the slot of the inner housing, and the intermediate portion being between the mating end and the tail portion.

[0015] Preferably, the extension includes at least one protrusion that is elongated in the mating direction and protrudes into the upper groove.

[0016] Preferably, the extension includes a pair of holes and a pair of protrusions, the pair of protrusions projecting downward and adjacent to a corresponding hole in the pair of holes; and the at least one protrusion is disposed between the pair of protrusions.

[0017] Preferably, the tail portion of the plurality of conductive elements includes a surface configured to be mounted to a circuit board.

[0018] Preferably, the surface of the tail portion of the plurality of conductive elements extends parallel to the mating direction.

[0019] Preferably, the electrical connector further includes: a plurality of cables, the plurality of cables including wires attached to the tail portion of the plurality of conductive elements.

[0020] Preferably, the electrical connector further includes a component comprising a lower portion disposed in an opening in the housing and an upper portion disposed in a groove in the inner housing.

[0021] Preferably, the upper portion of the component is shaped to restrict relative movement between the inner housing and the outer housing.

[0022] Preferably, the outer casing includes a side extension, which is configured as a mating surface for mating and engaging equipment.

[0023] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an electronic system is provided, comprising: a device including a mating surface and a card edge adjacent to the mating surface; and an adapter fixedly disposed on the device and including a mating portion having a rear end that abuts the mating surface of the device.

[0024] Preferably, the adapter further includes: a body including a tongue and a rear portion, the tongue including the mating portion; and an arm connected to the rear portion and attached to a corner of the device.

[0025] Preferably, the arm engages with the top and sides of the device.

[0026] Preferably, the electronic system further includes a fastener that extends through the opening of the adapter and into the opening of the device.

[0027] Preferably, the arm includes a protrusion projecting toward the body; the body includes a downwardly projecting protrusion; and the device includes: a first groove recessed from the side of the device and configured to receive the protrusion of the arm; and a second groove recessed from the top of the device and configured to receive the protrusion of the body.

[0028] Preferably, the adapter further includes a latch comprising: a first beam and a second beam connected at their proximal ends to the mating portion of the body of the adapter, and each including an upwardly projecting first protrusion and a second protrusion; and a channel between the first beam and the second beam.

[0029] Preferably, the electronic system further includes a connector comprising: a housing including an upper slot, a lower slot, and an extension extending beyond the lower slot, the extension including a protrusion that protrudes into the upper slot and is configured to fit into the channel of the latch.

[0030] Preferably, the edge of the card extends beyond the mating surface.

[0031] Preferably, the electronic system further includes a connector that mates with the device, the connector comprising: a housing having an upper slot, a lower slot, and an extension extending beyond the lower slot in a mating direction; an inner housing disposed in the lower slot of the housing; and a plurality of conductive elements disposed in the inner housing and configured to contact a contact pad on the edge of the card of the device.

[0032] Preferably, the extension of the housing of the connector includes a protrusion disposed in the channel between the first beam and the second beam of the latch of the adapter.

[0033] Preferably, the extension of the housing of the connector includes a pair of holes and a pair of protrusions, the pair of protrusions projecting downward and adjacent to a corresponding hole in the pair of holes; the pair of protrusions are disposed on opposite sides of the protrusion in the channel between the first beam and the second beam of the latch of the adapter; the first beam and the second beam of the latch of the adapter include protrusions and abut against a corresponding protrusion in the pair of protrusions disposed on the opposite sides of the protrusion, the protrusions of the first beam and the second beam protruding toward the corresponding hole in the pair of holes of the extension of the housing of the connector.

[0034] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a method of operating an adapter is provided, the adapter being configured to mechanically support the device when the device is connected to an electrical connector, the method comprising: providing a device including a top, a bottom, a side connecting the top and the bottom, and a mating surface at a front; and mounting the adapter on the device, including disposing a body of the adapter on the top of the device such that a portion of the body of the adapter extends beyond the mating surface of the device.

[0035] Preferably, the body of the adapter includes a rear portion and a tongue extending from the rear portion; and the tongue includes a portion of the body of the adapter that extends beyond the mating surface of the device.

[0036] Preferably, the adapter includes an arm connected to the rear portion of the body, each of the body and the arm including one or more protrusions; each of the top and side of the device including one or more recesses; and mounting the adapter on the device including disposing the one or more protrusions of the body and the arm of the adapter in the one or more recesses of the top and the side of the device, respectively.

[0037] Preferably, the method further includes: inserting a fastener through an opening in the arm of the adapter into an opening at the top of the device.

[0038] Preferably, mounting the adapter on the device includes engaging the rear of the portion of the body of the adapter that extends beyond the mating surface of the device with the mating surface of the device.

[0039] Preferably, the device includes a card edge that extends beyond the mating surface of the device and parallel to the portion of the body of the adapter that extends beyond the mating surface of the device.

[0040] Preferably, the method further includes: providing a connector, the connector comprising: a housing having an upper groove, a lower groove and an extension extending beyond the lower groove in a mating direction, and an inner housing disposed in the lower groove of the housing; and mating the device with the connector, including inserting the tongue of the adapter into the upper groove of the housing of the connector.

[0041] Preferably, the adapter includes a first beam and a second beam, and a channel between the first beam and the second beam, the first beam and the second beam having a proximal end connected to the tongue of the body and a distal end disposed above the rear portion of the body; the extension of the connector includes a protrusion that is elongated in the mating direction and protrudes into the upper groove; and inserting the tongue of the adapter into the upper groove of the housing of the connector includes: inserting the protrusion of the extension of the housing of the connector into the channel between the first beam and the second beam of the adapter.

[0042] Preferably, the first beam and the second beam of the adapter each include an upwardly projecting protrusion; inserting the tongue of the adapter into the upper groove of the housing of the connector includes: at least partially disposing the protrusions of the first beam and the second beam of the adapter in corresponding holes at the top of the extension of the housing of the connector.

[0043] Preferably, the method further includes: removing the device from the connector, including: pressing the first beam and the second beam of the adapter so that the protrusions of the first beam and the second beam disengage from the corresponding holes at the top of the extension of the housing of the connector.

[0044] These techniques can be used alone or in any suitable combination. The foregoing description of the utility model is provided by way of illustration and is not intended to be limiting. Attached Figure Description

[0045] The accompanying drawings may not be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component illustrated in different figures may be indicated by similar reference numerals. For clarity, not every component may be labeled in every figure. In the drawings:

[0046] Figure 1A This is a front perspective view of an electronic system according to some embodiments.

[0047] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A partially exploded perspective view of the electronic system.

[0048] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A Top front perspective view of the adapter of the electronic system.

[0049] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The bottom rear perspective view of the adapter.

[0050] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A Top view of the adapter.

[0051] Figure 2D yes Figure 2A Front side perspective view of the adapter.

[0052] Figure 2E yes Figure 2A Side view of the adapter.

[0053] Figure 2F yes Figure 2A Front view of the adapter.

[0054] Figure 3A yes Figure 1A A front perspective view of the electronic system, in which the board connectors are hidden and the adapter mounted on the solid-state drive (SSD) is shown.

[0055] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A partially exploded perspective view of the electronic system, showing the adapter and SSD respectively.

[0056] Figure 3C yes Figure 3B Rear view of the electronic system.

[0057] Figure 4A yes Figure 1ATop front perspective view of the board connector of the electronic system.

[0058] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Front view of the board connector.

[0059] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A Rear perspective view of the board connector.

[0060] Figure 4D yes Figure 4A Bottom perspective view of the board connector.

[0061] Figure 5A yes Figure 4A Partial exploded perspective view of the board connector.

[0062] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Front view of the board connector.

[0063] Figure 5C yes Figure 5A Side view of the board connector.

[0064] Figure 6 yes Figure 4A board connector along Figure 4D A cross-sectional perspective view of the line marked "6-6".

[0065] Figure 7 This is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic system according to some embodiments.

[0066] Figure 8A yes Figure 7 Top front perspective view of the cable connector of the electronic system.

[0067] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A Bottom front perspective view of the cable connector.

[0068] Figure 8C yes Figure 8A Front view of the cable connector.

[0069] Figure 8D yes Figure 8A Bottom front perspective view of the cable connector.

[0070] Figure 8E yes Figure 8A The cable connector along Figure 8D A cross-sectional perspective view of the line marked "8E-8E".

[0071] Figure 9A yes Figure 8A A partially exploded perspective view of a cable connector.

[0072] Figure 9B yes Figure 8A A partially exploded side view of a cable connector.

[0073] Figure 9C yes Figure 8A A partially disassembled bottom front perspective view of the cable connector. Detailed Implementation

[0074] The inventors have recognized and understood techniques for quickly connecting and disconnecting devices using connectors while maintaining or improving connection reliability. Conventionally, some devices may require additional mounting structures when connected to a connector. Exemplary devices include, but are not limited to, solid-state drives (SSDs), wireless communication cards, and radio frequency modules. These additional mounting structures often require specific tools in the field and increase installation time. According to aspects of this disclosure, an adapter can be configured to attach to a device so that the device can be quickly and reliably mated with and disconnected from the electrical connector without the use of specific tools. When the device is connected to the electrical connector, the adapter can mechanically support the device. The electrical connector may have features configured to facilitate reliable connection.

[0075] According to aspects of this disclosure, an adapter can be configured to be fixedly mounted on a device. The device may include a mating surface and a card edge adjacent to the mating surface and having contact pads configured to contact conductive elements of an electrical connector. The adapter may include a body disposed on top of the device. The body may include a rear portion and a tongue extending from the rear portion and beyond the mating surface of the device. The portion of the tongue extending beyond the mating surface of the device may have a rear end configured to abut the mating surface of the device. In some embodiments, the adapter may include an arm connected to the rear portion of the body and configured to attach to a corner of the device. The body and the arm may each include one or more protrusions configured to be recessed in corresponding grooves from the top and sides of the device, respectively. In some embodiments, the arm may include an opening through which fasteners extend into the opening of the device to further secure the adapter to the device.

[0076] In some embodiments, the adapter may include a latch movably connected to the body and configured to lock and unlock with a connector. The latch may include one or more beams having a proximal end connected to a tongue of the body and a distal end opposite the proximal end. The one or more beams may include a protrusion projecting upwards and away from the body of the adapter and configured to project into a corresponding receiver of a mating connector. The distal end of the one or more beams may be configured to release the protrusion from the receiver of the mating connector upon being pressed. Optionally, the distal ends of the one or more beams may be connected by a rod. The adapter may include a channel between adjacent beams. The adapter may include a bridging member disposed above and connected to the rear portion to restrict movement of the latch.

[0077] According to aspects of this disclosure, an electrical connector may include a housing having an upper slot, a lower slot stacked below the upper slot, and an extension extending beyond the lower slot in a mating direction. The electrical connector may include an inner housing disposed in the lower slot of the housing. The inner housing may hold a plurality of conductive elements. A component may be configured to reduce the risk of relative movement between the housing and the inner housing. In some embodiments, the component may include a lower portion disposed in an opening in the housing and an upper portion disposed in a recess in the inner housing. The lower and upper portions of the component may be shaped to restrict relative movement between the inner and outer housings. The conductive elements may be configured to be mounted to a circuit board and / or attached to a cable.

[0078] In some embodiments, the extension of the housing may include one or more protrusions that are elongated in the mating direction and project into the upper groove. The protrusions may be configured to be disposed in a channel between adjacent beams of the adapter's latch. The top of the extension of the housing may include a receiving portion (e.g., an aperture) of the beam's protrusion. The top of the extension of the housing may include a protrusion adjacent to the receiver and configured to abut the beam's protrusion to reduce the risk of the beam's protrusion accidentally disengaging from the engaging receiver.

[0079] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Front perspective and partially exploded perspective views of an electronic system 100 according to some embodiments are illustrated. The electronic system 100 may include a device 108, an adapter 104 attached to the device 108, and a connector 102 configured to engage with the device 108 attached to the adapter 104. In this example, the connector 102 may be a board connector configured to engage with a circuit board such as a motherboard. Only a portion of the motherboard is shown; and other components that may be mounted on the motherboard (such as a processor) are not shown. Alternatively or additionally, the connector 102 may be a cable connector configured to engage with a cable, as will be discussed later. Figure 7-9. The cable can be, but is not limited to, fiber optic cable, USB cable, HDMI cable, twisted pair cable, and / or coaxial cable. Adapter 104 can be configured to engage with device 108. As shown in the example, device 108 can be a solid-state drive (SSD). Alternatively or additionally, for example, expansion cards such as wireless communication cards and / or radio frequency modules can be used. For example, adapter 104 can enable a direct connection between connector 102 and device 108, provide mechanical support for device 108, and simplify the process of assembling the electronic system.

[0080] Figures 2A-2F and Figures 3A-3C Various views of adapter 104 and adapter 104 mounted on device 108 are illustrated. Device 108 may include a mating surface 352 and a card edge 302. Card edge 302 extends beyond mating surface 352. Card edge 302 is adjacent to mating surface 352 and has a contact pad 354 configured to contact conductive elements of connector 102. Adapter 104 may include a body 214 disposed on top of device 108. Body 214 may include a rear portion 252 and a tongue 254 extending from rear portion 252 and beyond mating surface 352 of device 108. Rear portion 252 is configured to engage top of device 108. The mating portion 224 of tongue 254 extending beyond mating surface 352 of device 108 may have a rear end 256 configured to abut mating surface 352 of device 108. In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include an arm 216 connected to a rear portion 252 of body 214 and configured to attach to a corner of the device. Body 214 and arm 216 may each include one or more protrusions configured to be recessed into corresponding grooves from the top and sides of the device, respectively. In some embodiments, arm 216 may include an opening 220 through which fasteners 228 extend to further secure the adapter to the device. In some embodiments, the electronic system may include engagement features such as fastening components. Each corresponding opening 220 of adapter 104 may be aligned with a corresponding opening 220 of device 108.

[0081] In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include a latch 202 movably connected to body 214 and configured to lock and unlock with a connector (e.g., connector 102). Latch 202 may include one or more beams 206 having a proximal end 262 connected to a tongue 254 of body 214 and a distal end 264 opposite to the proximal end 262. The one or more beams 206 are connected at the proximal end 262 to a mating portion 224 of body 214 of adapter 104. The one or more beams 206 may include a protrusion 208 projecting upward and away from body 214 of adapter 104 and configured to project to a corresponding receiver of the mating connector (e.g., Figure 4A The connector 102 is located in the hole 422. The distal end 264 of one or more beams 206 may be configured to release a protrusion from the receiver of the mating connector when pressed. As illustrated, the distal ends of one or more beams may be connected by a rod 266. An adapter may be included in a channel 204 between adjacent beams 206. The adapter 104 may include a bridging member 222 disposed above and connected to the rear portion 252 to restrict movement of the latch 202. The bridging member 222 is connected to the rear portion 252 of the body 214 and includes a portion disposed above the rear portion 252 of the body 214. The beams 206 are movably disposed between the body 214 and the portion of the bridging member 222 disposed above the rear portion 252 of the body 214.

[0082] In some embodiments, latch 202 may include a plurality of beams 206 extending from a proximal end of latch 202 to a distal end of latch 202. Each beam 206 may be a protrusion extending away from the body of adapter 104. Each beam 206 may include a projection 208 extending in a direction perpendicular to beam 206. For example, projection 208 may include an inclined surface 258. Latch 202 may include a channel 204 extending from a proximal end 262 of latch 202 to a distal end 264 of latch 202. Channel 204 may be located between adjacent beams 206. Channel 204 may be recessed into the body 214 of adapter 104. In the illustrated example, adapter 104 includes a single channel 204 disposed between two beams 206. The second beam is symmetrical to the first beam. Each beam 206 includes a projection 208 extending away from each beam 206 and facing the single channel 204. The projection 208 may not extend beyond the edge of the channel 204.

[0083] In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include a guide 212. In some embodiments, guide 212 may be adjacent to latch 202, extending from a proximal end 262 of latch 202 to a distal end 264 of latch 202. Guide 212 may be a protrusion extending away from the body of adapter 104. A channel 210 may be disposed between guide 212 and latch 202, extending from the proximal end 262 of latch 202 to the distal end 264 of latch 202. Channel 210 may be recessed into the body 214 of adapter 104. In the illustrated example, adapter 104 includes a first channel 210 and a second channel 210. Each corresponding channel 210 is disposed between latch 202 and guide 212.

[0084] In some embodiments, the adapter 104 may include a plurality of arms 216. Each arm 216 may be configured to be adjacent to a body 214 of the adapter 104. Each arm 216 may extend from a rear portion 252 of the body 214 and is elongated in the mating direction. A first portion 272 of each arm 216 may extend beyond the rear portion 252 of the body 214 to a tongue 254 of the body 214. A second portion 274 of each arm 216 may extend along the rear portion 252 of the body 214. A transition portion 217 may connect the first portion 272 of the arm 216 to the second portion 274 of the arm 216. Each arm 216 may include a protrusion 218. The first portion 272 of each arm 216 includes a protrusion 218 projecting toward the body 214. The protrusion 218 may extend away from the first portion 272 of each arm 216 in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the first portion 272 of each arm 216. Each arm 216 may include an opening 220. For example, the second portion 274 of each arm 216 has an opening 220. The opening 220 may be configured to receive fasteners 228, such as screws, bolts, pins, and / or studs. For example, the adapter 104 may be fastened to a device using fasteners. In this example, the adapter 104 includes a body 214 disposed between the first arm 216 and the second arm 216. A protrusion 218 extends from each arm 216 and faces the body 214 of the adapter 104. Figure 2C As shown, fastener 228 can be provided in opening 220.

[0085] In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include a bridging member 222. Bridging member 222 may be configured to limit and / or constrain movement of the connector. Bridging member 222 may be disposed on a rear portion 252 of the body 214 of adapter 104. A latch 202 may be disposed between the body and the bridging member 222.

[0086] In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include protrusions 226. Protrusions 226 may extend from the bottom surface 276 of body 214. Each protrusion 226 may extend away from the bottom surface 276 of body 214. In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include protrusions 218. Protrusions 218 may be disposed on a side surface of arm 216 of adapter 104. Each protrusion 218 may extend away from the side surface of arm 216. In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include protrusions 268. Protrusions 268 may extend from a proximal end 262 of latch 202 to a distal end 264 of latch 202.

[0087] In some embodiments, the tongue 254 of the body 214 includes a mating portion 224 configured to engage with the device 108. The mating portion 224 of the tongue 254 may include a protrusion extending from the bottom surface 276 of the body 214. The rear end 256 of the mating portion 224 may be configured to abut a mating surface 352 of the device 108. When engaged with the device 108, the mating portion 224 may restrict movement of the adapter 104. In the illustrated example, the mating portion 224 may extend away from the bottom surface 276 of the body 214.

[0088] In some embodiments, adapter 104 may include engagement features such as a plurality of protrusions 226, 218. In some embodiments, device 108 may include engagement features such as a plurality of recesses 304. The plurality of recesses 304 may be provided on the top surface of device 108. Each recess 304 may be recessed from the top surface of device 108. The plurality of recesses 304 may extend from a portion of the top surface of device 108 to a mating surface 352 of device 108. At least one recess 310 may be provided on the side surface of device 108. At least one recess 310 may be recessed from the side surface of device 108. At least one recess 310 may extend from a portion of the side surface of device 108 to the mating surface 352 of device 108. The plurality of protrusions 226, 218 of adapter 104 are configured to engage with the plurality of recesses 304, 310 of device 108. The plurality of protrusions and the plurality of recesses may have, but are not limited to, snap-fit ​​connections, sliding connections, or press-fit connections.

[0089] In the illustrated example, a plurality of protrusions 226 are disposed on the bottom surface 276 of the body 214, extending away from the bottom surface 276 of the body 214. A single protrusion 218 is located on each corresponding arm 216 of the adapter 104. The protrusion 218 is disposed on the inner surface of the arm 216 and extends toward the body 214. A plurality of recesses 304 are disposed on the top surface 306 of the device 108. The plurality of recesses 304 are recessed in the top surface 306. A single recess 310 is disposed on a first side surface 308 and a second side surface 308 (not shown) opposite to the first side surface 308. Each corresponding recess 310 is recessed in the side surface 308. The plurality of protrusions 226 are configured to engage with the plurality of recesses 304. The protrusions 218 of each arm 216 are configured to engage with at least one recess 310 of the first side surface 308 and at least one recess 310 of the second side surface 308, respectively.

[0090] According to aspects of this disclosure, an electrical connector (e.g., board connector 102) may include a housing (e.g., 402) having an upper slot (e.g., 414), a lower slot (e.g., 415) stacked below the upper slot, and an extension (e.g., 404) extending beyond the lower slot in a mating direction. The electrical connector may include an inner housing (e.g., 416) disposed in the lower slot of the housing. The inner housing may hold multiple conductive elements. A component (e.g., TPA 426) may be configured to reduce the risk of relative movement between the housing and the inner housing. In some embodiments, TPA 426 may include a lower portion (e.g., 552) disposed in an opening in the housing and an upper portion (e.g., 554) disposed in a recess in the inner housing. The lower and upper portions of the component may be shaped to restrict relative movement between the inner and outer housings. Conductive elements may be configured to be mounted to a circuit board (e.g., Figure 5A Terminal 420 in the middle) and / or attached to the cable (e.g., Figure 9A Terminal 820 in the middle).

[0091] Figure 4A-6 Various views of board connector 102 are illustrated. For example, board connector 102 has engagement features configured to engage with adapter 104 and / or motherboard. In the illustrated example, board connector 102 may be configured to engage with adapter 104 and / or PCB 106.

[0092] In some embodiments, the board connector 102 may include an extension 404. The outer housing 402 of the board connector 102 may include a body 406 and an extension 404. The body 406 may include an upper groove 414. The extension 404 may include a central protrusion and at least one side protrusion extending away from the inner surface of the extension 404. The central protrusion and at least one side protrusion may extend from the inner surface of the extension 404 into the upper groove 414 of the body. In some embodiments, the extension 404 and the upper groove 414 of the board connector 102 may be configured to engage with a latch 202 of the adapter 104. A channel of the latch 202 may be configured to engage with the central protrusion of the extension 404. A channel of the latch 202 may be configured to engage with at least one side protrusion of the extension 404.

[0093] In the illustrated example, the housing 402 may include an extension 404 and a main body 406. The main body 406 may include, for example, an extension 404 and a main body 406. Figure 4B The upper groove 414 is shown. The extension 404 may include a first side protrusion 410, a second side protrusion 410, and a central protrusion 412 extending away from the inner surface of the extension 404. The first side protrusion 410, the second side protrusion 410, and the central protrusion 412 may extend from the surface of the extension 404 into the upper groove 414. The first side protrusion 410, the second side protrusion 410, and the central protrusion 412 may be elongated in the mating direction and project into the upper groove 414. In some embodiments, the extension 404 and the upper groove 414 may be configured to engage with a latch 202 of the adapter 104. In some embodiments, a channel 204 of the latch 202 may be configured to engage with the central protrusion 412. In some embodiments, at least one channel 210 of the latch 202 may engage with at least one side protrusion 410.

[0094] Figure 4B According to some embodiments Figure 4A The front view of the board connector. In some embodiments, the board connector 102 may include engagement features such as an inner housing. The body 406 may include a lower groove 415, such as... Figure 5BAs shown more clearly in the diagram. The inner housing can be embedded in a lower slot 415 of the body of the board connector 102. The inner housing can extend from the proximal end of the body to the distal end of the body. The inner housing may include a slot. A plurality of conductive elements can be disposed in the slot of the inner housing. The plurality of conductive elements may include multiple conductive elements. The plurality of conductive elements can be secured in the inner housing. The connector may include a terminal position guarantee (TPA). The TPA can restrict relative movement between the inner housing and the outer housing. In the illustrated example, the inner housing 416 can be embedded in a lower slot 415 (not shown) of the body 406. The inner housing 416 can extend from the proximal end of the body 406 to the distal end of the body 406. The inner housing 416 may include a slot 418. A plurality of conductive elements (e.g., terminals 420) are embedded in a TPA 426. The conductive elements (e.g., terminals 420) and the TPA 426 can be disposed in the slot 418 of the inner housing 416. In some embodiments, the inner housing 416 may be configured to engage with a card edge 302 of the device 108.

[0095] Figure 4C According to some embodiments Figure 4A The rear perspective view of the board connector. In some embodiments, the distal end of the housing may include at least one recess. The housing may include at least one hole. In the illustrated example, the distal end of the housing 402 may include a first recess 424, a second recess 424, and a third recess 424. The top surface of the proximal end of the housing 402 may include a first hole 422 and a second hole 422. For example, an extension includes a pair of holes 422 and a pair of protrusions that project downward and are adjacent to corresponding holes in the pair of holes 422, with a central protrusion 412 disposed between the pair of protrusions. The pair of protrusions are disposed on opposite sides of the protrusions 412 in a channel 204 disposed between a first beam 206 and a second beam 206 of the latch 202 of the adapter 104. The first beam 206 and the second beam 206 of the latch 202 of the adapter 104 include protrusions 208 and abut against corresponding protrusions of the pair of protrusions disposed on opposite sides of the protrusions 412. The protrusions 208 of the first beam 206 and the second beam 206 protrude toward corresponding holes 422 in a pair of holes 422 in the extension 404 of the outer housing 402 of the connector 102.

[0096] Figure 4D According to some embodiments Figure 4AThe diagram shows a bottom perspective view of the board connector 102. In some embodiments, the board connector 102 may include engagement features such as posts. Posts may extend in a direction away from the bottom surface of the body. Posts may be configured to engage with the motherboard. The shape of the posts may include, but is not limited to, square, cylindrical, circular, rectangular, and / or triangular shapes. In the illustrated example, the bottom surface of the body 406 may include posts 428 extending in a direction away from the bottom surface of the body 406. In some embodiments, posts 428 may be configured to engage with the PCB 106. The housing 402 includes side extensions configured to mate with the mating surface 352 of the mating device 108.

[0097] Figure 5A According to some embodiments Figure 4A Partial exploded perspective view of the board connector. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the inner housing 416 may be configured to engage the distal end of the outer housing 402. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the TPA 426 may be configured to engage the distal end of the inner housing 416. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the terminal 420 may be configured to engage the distal end of the TPA 426.

[0098] Figure 5B According to some embodiments Figure 5A The diagram shows a front view of the board connector 102. In some embodiments, the main body of the outer shell of the board connector 102 may include an upper groove 414 and a lower groove 415. In some embodiments, an inner shell may be disposed in the lower groove 415. In the illustrated example, the main body 406 of the outer shell 402 may include an upper groove 414 and a lower groove 415. An inner shell 416 may be disposed in the lower groove 415.

[0099] Figure 5C According to some embodiments Figure 5A A side view of a board connector. In some embodiments, the board connector 102 may include a plurality of conductive elements. The plurality of conductive elements may include mating ends at proximal ends of the plurality of conductive elements. A plurality of terminals may include tail portions at distal ends of the plurality of conductive elements. The plurality of conductive elements may include intermediate portions disposed between the tail portions of the plurality of conductive elements and the mating ends. In the illustrated example, terminal 420 may include a mating end 502 at the proximal end of terminal 420. The mating end 502 is disposed in a groove 418 of the inner housing 416. Terminal 420 may include a tail portion 506 at the distal end 506 of terminal 420. Terminal 420 may include an intermediate portion 504 disposed between the mating end 502 and the tail portion 506.

[0100] Figure 6 According to some embodiments Figure 4A board connector along Figure 4DA cross-sectional perspective view along line “6-6”. Multiple conductive elements may be secured within the inner housing. The connector may include a Terminal Position Guarantee (TPA). The TPA may restrict relative movement between the inner housing and the outer housing. In the illustrated example, multiple conductive elements (e.g., terminals 420) are embedded in the TPA 426. A mating end 502 of the terminal 420 is disposed on a first side of the TPA 426, and a tail portion 506 of the terminal 420 is disposed on a second side of the TPA 426. The tail portion 506 of the terminal 420 includes a surface configured to be mounted to a circuit board and extending parallel to the mating direction.

[0101] Figure 7 This is a partially exploded perspective view of an electronic system according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, cable connector 700 may be configured to engage with adapter 104. In some embodiments, cable connector 700 may be configured to engage with device 108. In some embodiments, cable connector 700 may be configured to engage a cable, not shown in the illustrated example. The cable may engage with cable tail 702 of cable connector 700. Cable connector 700 includes a plurality of cables, the plurality of cables including conductors attached to tail portion 506 of terminal 420. The cable may be, but is not limited to, fiber optic cable, USB cable, HDMI cable, twisted pair cable, and / or coaxial cable. In the illustrated example, adapter 104 may be configured to engage with device 108. Adapter 104 is disposed on device 108, wherein the latch edge 302 of device 108 may be aligned with latch 202 of adapter 104. Adapter 104 may be configured to engage with cable connector 700. Adapter 104 may enable a direct connection between cable connector 700 and device 108.

[0102] Figure 8A According to some embodiments Figure 7 This is a front perspective view of a cable connector for an electronic system. For example, the cable connector has multiple engagement features to engage an adapter and / or device. In some embodiments, the cable connector may include engagement features such as an extension 804. The outer housing of the cable connector may include a body and an extension 804. The body may include an upper slot 814. The extension 804 may include a central protrusion and at least one side protrusion extending away from the inner surface of the extension 804. The central protrusion and at least one side protrusion may extend from the inner surface of the extension 804 into the upper slot 814 of the body. In some embodiments, the extension 804 of the cable connector and the upper slot 814 of the board connector 102 may be configured to engage with a latch 202 of the adapter 104. A channel of the latch 202 may be configured to engage with the central protrusion of the extension 804. A channel of the latch 202 may be configured to engage with at least one side protrusion of the extension 804.

[0103] In the illustrated example, the housing 802 may include an extension 804 and a main body 806. The main body 806 may include, for example, Figure 8B The upper groove 814 is shown. An extension 804 may extend from the proximal end of the body 806 to the proximal end of the extension 804. The extension 804 may include a first side protrusion 810, a second side protrusion 810, and a central protrusion 812 extending from the inner surface of the extension 804. The first side protrusion 810, the second side protrusion 810, and the central protrusion 812 may extend from the surface of the extension 804 into the upper groove 814. In some embodiments, although not shown in the illustrated example, the extension 804 and the upper groove 814 may be configured to engage with the latch 202 of the adapter 104. In some embodiments, although not shown in the illustrated example, a channel 204 of the latch 202 may be configured to engage with the central protrusion 812. In some embodiments, although not shown in the illustrated example, at least one channel 210 of the latch 202 may engage with at least one side protrusion 410.

[0104] In some embodiments, the cable connector may include engagement features such as fastening components. The body of the cable connector may include multiple fastening openings. For example, the openings may be configured to receive fasteners such as screws, bolts, pins, and / or studs. For example, the cable connector may be fastened to adapter 104 with fasteners. In the illustrated example, the body 806 of the cable connector 700 includes multiple openings 824. Each arm 216 of the adapter 104 includes an opening 220. The adapter 104 may be configured to engage with the cable connector 700, wherein the extension 804 may be aligned with the latch 202.

[0105] In some embodiments, the housing may include at least one hole. In the illustrated example, the top surface of the proximal end of the housing 802 may include a first hole 822 and a second hole 822.

[0106] Figure 8B According to some embodiments Figure 8A The cable connector is shown in a bottom front perspective view. In some embodiments, the cable connector may include engagement features such as an inner housing. The body may include a lower slot 908, such as... Figure 9CThe inner housing is shown more clearly in the diagram. It can be embedded in the lower groove 908 of the body of the cable connector. The inner housing can extend from the proximal end to the distal end of the body. The inner housing may include a groove. Multiple conductive elements can be disposed in the groove of the inner housing. In the illustrated example, the inner housing 816 can be embedded in the lower groove 908 of the body 806. The inner housing 816 can extend from the proximal end to the distal end of the body 806. The inner housing 816 may include a groove 818. In some embodiments, although not shown in the illustrated example, the inner housing 816 may be configured to engage with the card edge 302 of the device 108.

[0107] Figure 8C According to some embodiments Figure 8A The image shows a front view of a cable connector. In some embodiments, multiple conductive elements may be disposed in slots within the inner housing. In the illustrated example, the inner housing 816 may include multiple conductive elements (e.g., terminals 820).

[0108] Figure 8D According to some embodiments Figure 8A Bottom perspective view of the cable connector. Figure 8E According to some embodiments Figure 8A The cable connector along Figure 8D A cross-sectional perspective view along line "8-8". Multiple conductive elements may be secured within the inner housing. The connector may include a terminal position guarantee (TPA). The TPA may restrict relative movement between the inner housing and the outer housing. In the illustrated example, multiple conductive elements (e.g., terminals 820) are embedded in TPA 826. Terminals 820 and TPA 826 may be disposed in slots 818 of the inner housing 816.

[0109] Figure 9A According to some embodiments Figure 8A A partially exploded perspective view of the cable connector. In some embodiments, the distal end of the inner housing 816 may be configured to engage the proximal end of the TPA 826. In some embodiments, the distal end of the TPA 826 may be configured to engage the proximal end of the terminal 820. In some embodiments, the distal end of the terminal 820 may be configured to engage the proximal end of the cable 828. The cable 828 may be any conductive wire. In some embodiments, the distal end of the cable 828 may be configured to engage the proximal end of the housing.

[0110] Figure 9B According to some embodiments Figure 8AA partially exploded side view of a cable connector. Multiple conductive elements may include mating ends at the proximal ends of the multiple conductive elements. Multiple conductive elements may include tail portions at the distal ends of the multiple conductive elements. Multiple conductive elements may include intermediate portions disposed between the tail portions and the mating ends of the multiple conductive elements. In the illustrated example, terminal 820 may include a mating end 902 at the proximal end of terminal 820. Terminal 820 may include a tail portion 906 at the distal end of terminal 820. Terminal 820 may include an intermediate portion 904 disposed between the mating end 902 and the tail portion 906.

[0111] Figure 9C According to some embodiments Figure 8A A partially exploded front bottom perspective view of the cable connector.

[0112] In some embodiments, the main body of the cable connector housing may include an upper groove 814 and a lower groove 908. In some embodiments, an inner housing may be disposed in the lower groove 908. In the illustrated example, the main body 806 of the housing 802 may include an upper groove 814 and a lower groove 908. An inner housing 816 may be disposed in the lower groove 908.

[0113] A method of operating an adapter configured to mechanically support the device when the device is connected to an electrical connector, the method comprising: providing a device including a top, a bottom, a side connecting the top and the bottom, and a mating surface at a front; and mounting the adapter on the device, including positioning a body of the adapter on the top of the device such that a portion of the body of the adapter extends beyond the mating surface of the device.

[0114] The body of the adapter includes a rear portion and a tongue extending from the rear portion; and the tongue includes a portion of the body of the adapter that extends beyond the mating surface of the device.

[0115] The adapter includes an arm connected to the rear portion of the body, each of the body and the arm including one or more protrusions; each of the top and side of the device including one or more recesses; and mounting the adapter on the device including disposing the one or more protrusions of the body and the arm of the adapter in the one or more recesses of the top and the side of the device, respectively.

[0116] Insert the fastener through the opening in the arm of the adapter into the opening at the top of the device.

[0117] Installing the adapter on the device includes engaging the rear of the portion of the body of the adapter that extends beyond the mating surface of the device with the mating surface of the device.

[0118] The device includes a card edge that extends beyond the mating surface of the device and parallel to the portion of the body of the adapter that extends beyond the mating surface of the device.

[0119] The method further includes: providing a connector, the connector comprising: a housing having an upper groove, a lower groove and an extension extending beyond the lower groove in a mating direction, and an inner housing disposed in the lower groove of the housing; and mating the device with the connector, including inserting the tongue of the adapter into the upper groove of the housing of the connector.

[0120] The adapter includes a first beam and a second beam, and a channel between the first beam and the second beam, the first beam and the second beam having a proximal end connected to the tongue of the body and a distal end disposed above the rear portion of the body; the extension of the connector includes a protrusion that is elongated in the mating direction and protrudes into the upper groove; and inserting the tongue of the adapter into the upper groove of the housing of the connector includes: inserting the protrusion of the extension of the housing of the connector into the channel between the first beam and the second beam of the adapter.

[0121] The first beam and the second beam of the adapter each include an upwardly projecting protrusion; inserting the tongue of the adapter into the upper groove of the housing of the connector includes: at least partially disposing the protrusions of the first beam and the second beam of the adapter in corresponding holes at the top of the extension of the housing of the connector.

[0122] The method further includes: removing the device from the connector, including: pressing the first beam and the second beam of the adapter so that the protrusions of the first beam and the second beam disengage from the corresponding holes at the top of the extension of the housing of the connector.

[0123] In some embodiments, the connector housing, such as the inner housing and the outer housing, can be a dielectric component molded from a dielectric material such as plastic or nylon. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal polymers (LCP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), high-temperature nylon or polyphenylene oxide (PPO) or polypropylene (PP). Other suitable materials may be used, as this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0124] In some embodiments, the conductive element may be made of a metal or any other material that is conductive and provides suitable mechanical properties for the conductive element in the electrical connector. Phosphor bronze, beryllium copper, and other copper alloys are non-limiting examples of materials that may be used. The conductive element may be made of such materials in any suitable manner, including by stamping and / or forming.

[0125] The various aspects of this disclosure can be used alone, in combination, or in various arrangements not specifically discussed in the foregoing embodiments, and therefore the application of this disclosure is not limited to the details and arrangements of the components set forth in the foregoing description or shown in the drawings. For example, aspects described in one embodiment can be combined in any way with aspects described in other embodiments.

[0126] Furthermore, this disclosure can be embodied as a method, examples of which have been provided. Actions performed as part of this method can be ordered in any suitable manner. Therefore, embodiments can be constructed in which actions are performed in a different order than those shown, which may include performing some actions simultaneously, even if they are shown as sequential actions in the exemplary embodiments.

[0127] All definitions used in this document should be understood to take precedence over dictionary definitions, definitions in referenced literature, and / or the general meaning of the defined terms.

[0128] In some embodiments, terms indicating direction, such as “up” and “down” or “front” and “back”, are used. These terms are used to indicate direction based on the orientation of an illustrated component or its connection to another component, such as the surface of a printed circuit board on which a terminal assembly is mounted or the mating surface of a connector. It should be understood that electronic components can be used in any suitable orientation. Therefore, the terms of direction should be understood as relative, rather than fixed to a coordinate system perceived as invariant, such as the Earth's surface.

[0129] The use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” to modify a claim element does not imply any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element relative to another, or any temporal order of the actions of the method of execution. Rather, they serve only as labels to distinguish one claim element with a specific name from another element with the same name (but using ordinal terms) to differentiate claim elements.

[0130] The indefinite articles “a” and “an” used herein in the specification and claims shall be understood to mean “at least one” unless expressly indicated to the contrary.

[0131] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one" relating to a list of one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of all elements specifically listed in the list of elements, and does not exclude any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements outside of those specifically identified in the list of elements referred to by the phrase "at least one," whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified elements.

[0132] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase “and / or” should be understood to mean “any one or both” of the elements so combined, i.e., elements that are combined in some cases and separate in others. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be interpreted in the same way, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so combined. Other elements may optionally be present, whether related to or unrelated to those specifically identified by the “and / or” clause. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising,” a reference to “A and / or B” may in one embodiment refer only to A (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, only to B (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); and so on.

[0133] As used herein in the specification and claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when items are separated in a list, “or” or “and / or” should be interpreted as inclusive, that is, including multiple elements or at least one of the elements in the list, but also including more than one, and optionally, additional unlisted items. Terms that clearly indicate the opposite, such as “only one” or “exactly one”, or when used in a claim, “consisting of” will refer to including multiple elements or exactly one of the elements in the list. Generally, when preceded by an exclusive term (such as “any,” “one of,” “only one,” or “one”), the term “or” as used herein should be interpreted only as indicating an exclusive alternative (i.e., “one or the other, but not both”). When used in a claim, “consisting mainly of” should have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0134] Furthermore, the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The use of “including,” “contains,” “has,” “includes,” or “involves” and variations thereof in this document means to cover the items listed thereafter (or their equivalents) and / or as additional items.

Claims

1. An adapter, characterized in that, The adapter is configured to attach to a device to mechanically support the device when it is connected to an electrical connector, the adapter comprising: The main body includes a rear portion and a tongue, the rear portion being configured to engage the top of the device, and the tongue extending from the rear portion; A latch, the latch comprising a beam having a proximal end connected to the tongue of the body and a distal end opposite the proximal end; and An arm, which is connected to the rear portion of the body and configured to be attached to a corner of the device.

2. The adapter according to claim 1, characterized in that, A bridging member, the bridging member being connected to the rear portion of the body and including a portion disposed above the rear portion of the body; and The beam is movably disposed between the main body and the portion of the bridging member disposed above the rear portion of the main body.

3. The adapter according to claim 2, characterized in that, The beam includes protrusions with inclined surfaces.

4. The adapter according to claim 2, characterized in that, The beam includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being positioned closer than the first portion to the portion of the bridging member located above the rear portion of the main body; and The second part is T-shaped.

5. The adapter according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The beam in question is the first beam; and The latch includes a second beam and a channel between the first beam and the second beam, the second beam having a proximal end connected to the tongue of the body and a distal end opposite the proximal end.

6. The adapter according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second beam is symmetrical to the first beam; and The latch includes a rod connecting the distal end of the first beam and the distal end of the second beam.

7. The adapter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The arm includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending beyond the rear portion of the body, and the second portion having an opening configured to receive a fastener.

8. The adapter according to claim 7, characterized in that, The arm includes a transition portion connecting the first part and the second part.

9. The adapter according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first portion of the arm includes a protrusion that projects toward the body.

10. The adapter according to any one of claims 1-4 and 7-9, characterized in that, The tongue of the main body includes a mating portion configured to engage with the device.

11. An electrical connector, characterized in that, include: The outer casing includes an upper groove, a lower groove, and an extension extending beyond the lower groove in a mating direction; Inner housing, the inner housing being disposed in the lower groove of the outer housing and including the groove; and A plurality of conductive elements are disposed in the inner housing. Each of the plurality of conductive elements includes a mating end, a tail portion and a middle portion. The mating end is disposed in the groove of the inner housing, and the middle portion is between the mating end and the tail portion.

12. The electrical connector according to claim 11, characterized in that, The extension includes at least one protrusion, which is elongated in the mating direction and protrudes into the upper groove.

13. The electrical connector according to claim 12, characterized in that, The extension includes a pair of holes and a pair of protrusions, the pair of protrusions projecting downwards and adjacent to a corresponding hole in the pair of holes; and The at least one protrusion is disposed between the pair of protrusions.

14. The electrical connector according to claim 11, characterized in that, The tail portion of the plurality of conductive elements includes a surface configured to be mounted to a circuit board.

15. The electrical connector according to claim 14, characterized in that, The surface of the tail portion of the plurality of conductive elements extends parallel to the mating direction.

16. The electrical connector according to claim 11, characterized in that, The electrical connector further includes: Multiple cables, the multiple cables including conductors attached to the tail portion of the multiple conductive elements.

17. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 11-16, characterized in that, The electrical connector further includes: The component includes a lower portion disposed in an opening in the outer casing and an upper portion disposed in a groove in the inner casing.

18. The electrical connector according to claim 17, characterized in that, The upper portion of the component is shaped to restrict relative movement between the inner housing and the outer housing.

19. The electrical connector according to claim 17, characterized in that, The outer casing includes a side extension, which is configured as a mating surface for mating and engaging equipment.

20. An electronic system, characterized in that, include: The device includes a mating surface and a card edge adjacent to the mating surface; as well as An adapter, which is fixedly disposed on the device and includes a mating portion having a rear side that abuts the mating surface of the device.

21. The electronic system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The adapter further includes: The main body includes a tongue and a rear portion, the tongue including the mating portion; and An arm, which is connected to the rear portion and attached to the corner of the device.

22. The electronic system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The arm engages with the top and sides of the device.

23. The electronic system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The electronic system further includes: Fasteners that extend through the opening of the adapter and into the opening of the device.

24. The electronic system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The arm includes a protrusion that projects toward the body; The main body includes a downwardly projecting protrusion; and The device includes: A first groove, recessed from the side of the device and configured to receive the protrusion of the arm; and A second groove is recessed from the top of the device and configured to receive the protrusion of the body.

25. The electronic system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The adapter further includes a latch, the latch comprising: A first beam and a second beam, the first beam and the second beam being connected at their proximal ends to the mating portion of the body of the adapter, and each including an upwardly projecting first protrusion and a second protrusion; and A passageway located between the first beam and the second beam.

26. The electronic system according to claim 25, characterized in that, The electronic system further includes a connector, the connector comprising: The housing includes an upper groove, a lower groove, and an extension extending beyond the lower groove. The extension includes a protrusion that protrudes into the upper groove and is configured to fit into the channel of the latch.

27. The electronic system according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that, The edge of the card extends beyond the mating surface.

28. The electronic system according to claim 27, characterized in that, The electronic system further includes a connector that mates with the device, the connector comprising: The outer casing has an upper groove, a lower groove, and an extension extending beyond the lower groove in the mating direction; Inner housing, the inner housing being disposed in the lower groove of the outer housing; and A plurality of conductive elements are disposed in the inner housing and configured to contact a contact pad on the edge of the card of the device.

29. The electronic system according to claim 28, characterized in that, The extension of the housing of the connector includes a protrusion disposed in the channel between the first beam and the second beam of the latch of the adapter.

30. The electronic system according to claim 29, characterized in that, The extension of the housing of the connector includes a pair of holes and a pair of protrusions, the pair of protrusions projecting downward and adjacent to a corresponding hole in the pair of holes; The pair of protrusions are disposed on opposite sides of the protrusions in the channel between the first beam and the second beam of the latch of the adapter; The first and second beams of the latch of the adapter include protrusions that abut against a corresponding protrusion of a pair of protrusions disposed on opposite sides of the protrusion, the protrusions of the first and second beams projecting toward a corresponding hole of a pair of holes in the extension of the housing of the connector.

Images