US Patent:
20010046802, Nov 29, 2001
Inventors:
Peter Perry - North Branford CT, US
Frank Volpe - North Haven CT, US
Jeffrey Buccitti - Prospect CT, US
Thomas Ricard - Cheshire CT, US
International Classification:
H01R013/627
Abstract:
A coaxial connector assembly is provided with first and second coaxial connectors. A tubular adaptor is threaded engaged with external threads on the first connector, and includes a locking groove in an outer circumferential surface. A lock body surrounds the second connector, and includes a mating end with a plurality of resiliently deflectable fingers. Each finger includes an inwardly projecting lock bead that engages the lock groove on the adaptor when the connectors are mated. The lock body further includes an annular lock groove in an outer surface. A locking ring surrounds the lock body and includes a forward end which surrounds the resilient fingers of the lock body. The locking ring further includes rearwardly extending fingers that releaseably engage the lock groove in the lock body. The locking ring can be moved between forward and rearward positions. In the forward position, the locking ring engages the resilient fingers of the lock body for securely locking the resilient fingers of the lock body in the groove of the adaptor. In a rearward position, the locking ring permits outward deflection of the resilient fingers on the lock body and hence permits connection or disconnection of the first and second connectors.