Centering spring support for panel mount connectors

摘要

A connector for mounting to a panel is provided with a pair of centering springs mounted on opposed ends of the connector to support platforms facing in opposed directions. The centering spring is a unitary stamped and formed sheet metal part comprising a U-shaped base section and a resilient centering section having concave portions for fitting around a cylindrical shaft of a mounting screw. Mounting off the connector to the panel is accomplished by first urging the screw cylindrical shaft between the resilient section until it is seated between the concave portion of the centering spring. The connector can then be screwed onto the panel until a bush thereof abuts the panel, thereby allowing floating movement of the connector. Movement of the connector with respect to the panel is countered by the centering spring.