Retention mechanism device

摘要

An improved retention mechanism having corresponding retention features is provided herein. The mechanism may include a pair of spring arm retention features in a connector receptacle engageable with a corresponding pair of recessed retention features in a connector tab and backup spring members for reducing stress within the spring arms during insertion of the tab and/or lubricating members for lubricating the retention mechanism. The backup spring is positioned adjacent an outer-facing surface or extends laterally outward from the spring arms so that deflection of the spring arms displaces the backup spring reducing stresses within each arm and/or increasing the retention force on the connector tab. The backup spring may include any or all of a bent portion of an bracket or arm, a wire, a loop, a complementary spring arm, dual backup springs, elastomeric members, compression springs and lubricating members. Methods of use and assembly such retention mechanisms are also provided.

主权项

1. A retention latch assembly for releasably coupling a connector tab inserted into a receptacle connector of a device, the latch assembly comprising:
one or more retaining spring arms within the receptacle, each arm having a retaining portion that extends inwardly toward an insertion axis of the receptacle connector along which the connector tab is inserted into the receptacle connector so as to be resiliently received within a corresponding retention recess in a side of the connector tab when the connector tab is inserted within the receptacle connector; and one or more backup springs affixed within the receptacle and disposed adjacent a side of the one or more retaining spring arms facing away from the insertion axis such that movement of the retaining portion away from the insertion axis during insertion of the connector tab displaces the one or more backup springs to reduce the stresses within the one or more retaining spring arms during insertion of the connector tab.