Mechanism for coupling of connector array

摘要

A mechanism is provided for moving each of a plurality of second connectors (32) into engagement with each of a plurality of first connectors (31), where selective movement of the second connectors can be accomplished at a front panel (54) that is distant from the connectors. An elongated turning member (52) has a front end handle (50) that can be turned about an axis (122), with the rear of the turning member coupled to a selected one of a plurality of gear devices (61-64) that each moves a different second connector when that gear device is turned. A selector (70) that extends parallel to the turning member, has a selector front end handle (72) that can be turned to a selected position, to turn cam portions (132-135) at the rear end of the selector. Each cam portion can push a corresponding coupler (120) that can slide within a slot (134) in the turning member, so the coupler engages a cutout (124) in the gear device to thereby rotatably connect the turning member to the gear device. In another arrangement, the selector (252) is slideable along the axis (122B) of the turning member to different positions to cause coupling members (261-264) to slide into engagement with walls of a cutout (270) in a selected gear device.