Retention key lock for board-to-board connectors

摘要

Board-to-board connectors that consume a minimal amount of board area, are simple to assemble, and provide a clear indication that a proper connection has been made. One example may consume minimal area, since only a retention key and slots in boards and connectors are needed. The connector may be simple to assemble since it may be as simple as stacking components, pushing down, and turning a retention key. Further, a first and a first line on a key and a cowling may be aligned after assembly to provide a clear indication that the connector has been properly assembled.

主权项

1. An apparatus to connect a first board to a second board, the apparatus comprising:
the second board having a slot; a receptacle on the second board having a slot aligned with the slot in the second board; a plug connected to the first board, the plug inserted into the receptacle, the plug having a slot aligned with the slot in the receptacle; a first pliable layer located on the plug and having a slot aligned with the slot in the plug; a first stiffening piece located on the pliable layer and having a slot aligned the slot in the first pliable layer; and a retention key having a head in contact with the first stiffening piece, a shaft through the slots in the second board, receptacle, plug, first pliable layer, and first stiffening piece, and a locking tail below the second board and at an angle to the slot in the second board, wherein the first board is a flexible circuit board and the second board is a printed circuit board, and wherein the receptacle comprises a housing to support a plurality of contacts, where the contacts form electrical connections to traces on the second board.