Importance

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Abstract

The invention provides a latch release for engaging an operative portion of a latching mechanism of a connector to switch the latching mechanism between a latched position and an unlatched position. In one embodiment, a latch release is provided comprising a housing that is cooperatively associated with the connector so as to be positioned adjacent to the operative portion of the latching mechanism. A beam is pivotably supported by the housing and comprises a front end positioned adjacent to the operative portion of the latching mechanism and a rear end that is spaced from the operative portion of the latching mechanism. In this way, when the rear end of the beam is moved, the beam pivots so that the front end operatively engages the operative portion of the latching mechanism. In another embodiment of the invention, the latch release comprises a beam pivotably supported by the housing and comprising a front end positioned adjacent to the operative portion of the latching mechanism, a rear end that is spaced from the operative portion of the latching mechanism and a resilient hinge located between the front and rear ends. In this embodiment, when the rear end of the beam is moved, the beam pivots flexing the living hinge thereby moving the front end into operative engagement with the operative portion of the latching mechanism. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the latch release comprises a cam slidably supported by the housing and comprising a front end positioned adjacent to the operative portion of the latching mechanism and including a camming surface and a rear end that is spaced from the operative portion of the latching mechanism. In this embodiment, when the rear end of the cam is slid toward the latching mechanism the camming surface operatively engages the operative portion of the latching mechanism.

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First Claim