Connector locking system using a temperature responsive spring

摘要

A secure locking system includes: a case (10) having at least one transverse orifice (33) that opens to the surface of the case; a locking ring (20) having a notched wall (22), which can be locked at one end of the case; a spring (31) housed in the orifice of the case; a ball (32) installed at least partially in the orifice of the case, above the spring. The spring is made of a shape-memory material, which assumes: an elastic state when an environmental temperature is less than or equal to a critical temperature of the shape-memory material, this elastic state enabling movement of the ball in the orifice; or a hardened state when an environmental temperature is higher than the critical temperature of the shape-memory material, this hardened state preventing any movement of the ball in the orifice. A connector and connector assembly including the locking system are described.

主权项

1. Secure locking system comprising:
a case (10) provided with at least one transverse orifice (33) that opens to the surface of said case, a locking ring (20) having a notched wall (22), which can be locked at one end of the case, a spring (31) housed in the orifice (33) of the case, a ball (32) installed at least partially in the orifice (33) of the case, above the spring, characterized in that the spring (31) is made of a shape-memory material, able to assume: an elastic state when an environmental temperature is less than or equal to a critical temperature of the shape-memory material, this elastic state making possible a movement of the ball in the orifice, or a hardened state when an environmental temperature is higher than a critical temperature of the shape-memory material, this hardened state preventing any movement of the ball in the orifice.