SNAP-ON EDGE CONNECTOR SYSTEM

摘要

Some examples of an electrical connection system can be implemented to include mechanical retention directly to the edge of a device or protective case. The first member of the system can include one or more spring pins, located within a rigid frame. After assembly of the spring pins into the rigid frame of the first member, the frame can be overmolded to create an electrical connector at the end of a cable. The second member of the system can include one or more contact pads located within a rigid frame. After assembly of the contact pads into the rigid frame of the second member, the frame can be overmolded to create an electrical connector at the end of a cable. The rigid frame of the first member can include features to locate it to features within the rigid frame of the second member so that the spring pins in the first member align with the contact pads of the second member. The rigid frame of the first member can further include one or more retention features which allow it to grip the edge of a device or protective case into which the second member is mounted. Because of the shape and edge-located retention features of the first member, the resulting system can be easily and quickly mated and de-mated, requiring less manual dexterity and care than conventional mating connector systems.