A kinematic coupling includes a male connector (94) and first and second opposed jaws (122, 124.) Each of the jaws is pivotable from a retracted position in which the male connector can be inserted between the jaws and an engaging position in which the jaws prevent withdrawal of the male connector from between the jaws. The male connector is movable between an extended and a retracted position, and is biased towards the retracted position. This provides a positive clamping force when the kinematic coupling is engaged.

Claims

19 · 2 independent · depth 5

19 granted claims

›1.independentA kinematic coupling comprising: a male connector including an undercut surface; and first and second opposed jaws, each of the jaws including a protr…+9

›2.↳ 1A kinematic coupling according to claim 1, wherein said force is applied to the first and second opposed jaws at a position located between said pivot…d2+5

›4.↳ 1A kinematic coupling according to claim 1, wherein the male connector is movably coupled to a substrate, and wherein, when the male connector is inser…d2+2

›11.independentA kinematic coupling comprising: a male connector including an undercut surface; and at least one jaw, the at least one jaw including a protruding lip…+8

›12.↳ 11A kinematic coupling according to claim 11, wherein the male connector is movably coupled to a substrate, and wherein in use the male connector is mov…d2+6

›19.↳ 11A kinematic coupling according to claim 11, wherein the probe includes a spherical head and the at least one jaw includes an inclined surface that can…d2

Classifications

1 codes

USPC · US Patent Classification

439/372

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1.8 y

643 days filing → grant

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Examiner

Gary F. Paumen

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