WO2025208174A1

WO2025208174A1 - Interchangeable connector system

Info

Publication number: WO2025208174A1
Application number: PCT/AU2025/050312
Authority: WO
Inventors: Amrith DHARMAWARDANE
Original assignee: Audrey Clare Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Audrey Clare Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2024-04-04
Filing date: 2025-04-02
Publication date: 2025-10-09
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-04

Abstract

An interchangeable connector system (100) is cost effective, robust, discreet and secure, where elements of the system (100) can be easily connected and disconnected by a user. A base (105) comprises: a wall (400) defining a cavity (405) having a longitudinal axis (325); a primary retaining ledge (500) inside the cavity (405), the primary retaining ledge (500) having a recess (505); and a first detent element (710) spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge (500) along the longitudinal axis (325). A key (200) comprises: a key shaft (205), wherein extending from the key shaft (205) are a key tab (210) and, longitudinally spaced from the key tab (210) along the key shaft (205), a second detent element (215). In use, the key (200) is inserted into the cavity (405) and the wall (400) guides the key (200) to a first axial position where the key tab (210) contacts the primary retaining ledge (500). A first rotation of the key (200) slides the key tab (210) along the primary retaining ledge (500) to align with the recess (505) along the longitudinal axis (325). Further insertion of the key (200) into the cavity (405) moves the key tab (210) into the recess (505) to a second axial position, and a second rotation of the key (200) engages the first detent element (710) with the second detent element (215), thereby connecting the key (200) to the base (105).

Description

TITLE

Interchangeable Connector System

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to connection systems. In particular, although not exclusively, the invention relates to interchangeable connector systems applicable to interchangeable jewellery elements.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The creation of appealing interchangeable jewellery elements has been a goal of jewellers for many decades. The prior art includes a wide range of examples of various mechanisms and designs for such jewellery.

For example, such interchangeable jewellery elements may include a ring and multiple interchangeable settings, or a necklace pendant and various optional attachments. Thus, a wearer may own only a single ring pendant base and yet be able to widely vary the look, colour, style or value of an associated jewellery setting, in order to suit the desired fashion of particular events, circumstances or clothing.

[0003] However, the prior art designs of interchangeable jewellery elements have generally suffered from one or more deficiencies. That is largely because the parameters that define high quality for an interchangeable jewellery system can be extremely challenging and difficult to satisfy. Such parameters include the following:

[0004] Cost. Interchangeable jewellery generally should not involve components such as complex springs or gearing, or expensive manufacturing techniques like computerised numerical control (CNC) machining, or require an excessive amount of post processing in order to get interchangeable elements to function. Rather, a design should be created in such a way that it can be produced relatively easily, at low cost, and work in a variety of applications.

[0005] Height of System. Especially for items such as rings, the height of the setting is a major consideration. This is for both aesthetic and functional reasons and to ensure wearer comfort. A tall setting on a ring may look unappealing and also may present a ‘catching’ hazard if it protrudes far from the finger. A tall interchangeable jewellery lock system may allow for more layers of security in order to prevent it from coming out, but may also compromise on the aesthetic and functional necessity of a low profile system. [0006] Discretion. The design of the system generally should be as discreet as possible to the average observer. This means having no visible signs that the setting is detachable (such as hinges or pins) and also completely enclosing the sides of the system that are visible to outside observers. This preserves the aesthetic look of the jewellery and ensures that there are fewer external components that can be lost or broken.

[0007] Ease of Use. The system should be easy to use by the average wearer and relatively intuitive. Some degree of instruction may be required for first time wearers; however, the actual mechanism of action as well as haptic feedback should be such that the average wearer will feel comfortable in readily interchanging one setting for another.

[0008] Security. The system needs to be secure enough so that a person can wear it as they would normally wear single piece jewellery and without the risk that an interchangeable setting will be easily lost. This generally does not mean being able to stand up to the rigours of manual labour or intense exercise, but rather requires an assurance that settings will not easily fall out during normal day to day activities.

[0009] Further, it is appreciated that many of the above parameters for an effective interchangeable jewellery system are also applicable to a wide range of other interchangeable connector systems, such as connector systems for other fashion accessories, electronic components, machine components, games, toys, furniture, and industrial and interior design elements.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for an improved interchangeable connector system. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[001 1 ] It is an object of the present invention to overcome and/or alleviate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In one aspect, although it need not be the only or the broadest aspect, the invention resides in an interchangeable connector system, comprising: a base, comprising: a wall defining a cavity having a longitudinal axis; a primary retaining ledge inside the cavity, the primary retaining ledge having a recess; and a first detent element spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a key comprising a key shaft, wherein extending from the key shaft are a key tab and, longitudinally spaced from the key tab along the key shaft, a second detent element; whereby in use: the key is inserted into the cavity and the wall guides the key to a first axial position where the key tab contacts the primary retaining ledge; a first rotation of the key slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis; further insertion of the key into the cavity moves the key tab into the recess to a second axial position; and a second rotation of the key engages the first detent element with the second detent element, thereby connecting the key to the base. [0013] Preferably, a first magnetic element is positioned in the cavity, and a second magnetic element that attracts the first magnetic element is positioned at a distal end of the key.

[0014] Preferably, the base and key each define a jewellery element that is interchangeable with other jewellery elements.

[0015] Preferably, the wall of the base comprises a plurality of stacked plates; and the plurality of stacked plates includes a first plate that defines the primary retaining ledge, and a second plate that defines the first detent element.

[0016] Preferably, the second plate further defines an intermediate retaining ledge, whereby, following the first rotation of the key, axial movement of the key out of the cavity is restrained by the key tab contacting an underside of the intermediate retaining ledge.

[0017] Preferably, an axial restraint plate is positioned between the first and second plates.

[0018] Preferably, the axial restraint plate comprises a pair of restraining tabs.

[0019] Preferably, following the second rotation of the key, axial movement of the key out of the cavity is restrained by the key tab contacting an underside of the axial restraint plate.

[0020] Preferably, the primary retaining ledge of the base comprises a plurality of recesses; and a plurality of key tabs extend from the key shaft.

[0021 ] Preferably, the key tab is positioned at a distal end of the key shaft.

[0022] Preferably, the primary retaining ledge of the base comprises a pair of recesses; and a pair of key tabs extend from the key shaft.

[0023] Preferably, the base comprises a plurality of first detent elements spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a plurality of second detent elements extend from the key shaft; wherein each first detent element is engageable with a second detent element.

[0024] Preferably, the base comprises a pair of first detent elements spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a pair of second detent elements extend from the key shaft; wherein each first detent element is engageable with a second detent element.

[0025] Preferably, the first detent element is a detent spring and the second detent element is a cam lobe.

[0026] Preferably, the first rotation of the key, which slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis, is about 90 degrees.

[0027] Preferably, the second rotation of the key, which engages the first detent element with the second detent element, is about 40 degrees.

[0028] Preferably, the base further comprises: a body that supports the wall defining the cavity, and a sheath for securing the wall to the body.

[0029] Preferably, a material of the base or key is defined by one or more of the following: metal, metal alloy, gold, or silver.

[0030] Preferably, the second rotation of the key, which engages the first detent element with the second detent element, provides haptic feedback to a user.

[0031] Preferably, the second rotation of the key, which engages the first detent element with the second detent element, provides audible feedback to a user.

[0032] According to an alternative aspect, the invention resides in an interchangeable connector system, comprising: a base, comprising: a wall defining a cavity having a longitudinal axis; a primary retaining ledge inside the cavity, the primary retaining ledge having a recess; and a first locking element spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a key comprising a key shaft, wherein extending from the key shaft are a key tab and, longitudinally spaced from the key tab along the key shaft, a second locking element; whereby in use: the key is inserted into the cavity and the wall guides the key to a first axial position where the key tab contacts the primary retaining ledge; a first rotation of the key slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis; further insertion of the key into the cavity moves the key tab into the recess to a second axial position; and a second rotation of the key engages the first locking element with the second locking element, thereby connecting the key to the base.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] To assist in understanding the invention and to enable a person skilled in the art to put the invention into practical effect, preferred embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one example of an interchangeable connector system, including a plurality of jewllery/ring settings that are each interchangeably connectable to a single ring base, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an underside of a single jewellery setting from FIG. 1 , including a key for connecting to the ring base, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the female connector subsystem of the ring base of FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0037] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the ring base of FIG. 1 , showing the locking plate removed.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a first partial perspective view of the interchangeable connector system of FIG. 1 (but with the locking plate, sheath and top portion of the ring setting removed for clarity).

[0039] FIG. 6 is a second partial perspective view of the interchangeable connector system of FIG. 1 (but with the locking plate, sheath and top portion of the ring setting removed for clarity).

[0040] FIG. 7 is a first partial top view of the interchangeable connector system of FIG. 1 , showing only the key and the locking plate, and after the key shaft has been initially inserted into the cavity of the female connector subsystem and rotated 90 degrees.

[0041 ] FIG. 8 is a second partial top view of the interchangeable connector system of FIG. 1 , showing only the key and the locking plate.

[0042] FIG. 9 is a third partial top view of the interchangeable connector system of FIG. 1 , in a final locked position, showing only the key and the locking plate.

[0043] FIG. 10 is a further perspective view of the female connector subsystem of FIG. 1 , showing all three of the plates stacked on top of each other to define the wall of the cavity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0044] The present invention relates to interchangeable connector systems. Elements of the invention are illustrated in concise outline form in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are necessary to understanding the embodiments of the present invention, but so as not to clutter the disclosure with excessive detail that will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the present description.

[0045] In this patent specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, above and below, top and bottom, upper and lower, front and back, etc., are used solely to define one element or method step from another element or method step without necessarily requiring a specific relative position or sequence that is described by the adjectives. Words such as “comprises” or “includes” are not used to define an exclusive set of elements or method steps. Rather, such words merely define a minimum set of elements or method steps included in a particular embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] According to one aspect, the present invention is an interchangeable connector system, comprising: a base, comprising: a wall defining a cavity having a longitudinal axis; a primary retaining ledge inside the cavity, the primary retaining ledge having a recess; and a first detent element spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a key comprising a key shaft, wherein extending from the key shaft are a key tab and, longitudinally spaced from the key tab along the key shaft, a second detent element; whereby in use: the key is inserted into the cavity and the wall guides the key to a first axial position where the key tab contacts the primary retaining ledge; a first rotation of the key slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis; further insertion of the key into the cavity moves the key tab into the recess to a second axial position; and a second rotation of the key engages the first detent element with the second detent element, thereby connecting the key to the base.

[0047] Advantages of some embodiments of the present invention include enabling an interchangeable connector system that is cost effective, robust, discreet and secure, and where elements of the system can be easily connected and disconnected by a user.

[0048] For example, some embodiments of the present invention can include interchangeable jewellery elements, such as a ring base and various settings that can be interchangeably connected to the base.

[0049] Some embodiments can be readily designed for efficient and cost- effective manufacturing by employing a system architecture of stacked plates that enable the interchangeable connection.

[0050] Further, some embodiments enable low profile and discreet designs that can be important in applications such as fine jewellery pieces.

[0051 ] Further, some embodiments enable highly secure designs that include fail safe and redundant features to prevent the inadvertent disconnection of two interchangeable elements. For example, a specified sequence of a first rotational movement, followed by a first axial movement, followed by final rotational movement, followed by a final axial movement can be required to separate two interchangeable elements. That helps ensure that the elements, such as valuable jewellery items, cannot be accidentally separated and lost.

[0052] Further, some embodiments enable haptic or audible feedback to a user to enhance the user experience and ensure smooth and proper connection and disconnection of interchangeable elements.

[0053] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all of the above advantages are necessarily included in all embodiments of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one example of an interchangeable connector system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 includes a ring base 105, such as for wearing on a finger of a user, and six interchangeable jewellery/ring settings 1 10. Thus, any one of the settings 1 10, including for example top portions displaying the letter “R” or a precious stone, can be selected by the user for a particular occasion and interchangeably connected to the ring base 105. [0055] When connecting the ring base 105 to a particular setting 1 10, a female connector subsystem 1 15 of the base 105 receives a male connector element (as shown in FIG. 2) of the particular setting 1 10.

[0056] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an underside of a jewellery setting 1 10, including a male connector element in the form of a key 200, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The key 200 includes a key shaft 205, a pair of key tabs 210, and a pair of detent elements in the form of cam lobes 215. The cam lobes 215 are axially spaced from the key tabs 210 along the key shaft 205.

[0057] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the female connector subsystem 1 15 of the ring base 105, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The subsystem 1 15 includes three annular plates comprising an annular ledge plate 305, an axial restraint plate 310, and a locking plate 315.

[0058] The three plates 305, 310, 315 are stacked on top of an annular footing 320 and along a longitudinal axis 325. When assembled, a sheath 330 surrounds each of the plates 305, 310, 315 and secures them to the footing 320. An edge at the top of the sheath 330 clamps the plate 315 to the ring base 105.

[0059] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the ring base 105, showing only the locking plate 315 removed from the ring base 105. The annular ledge plate 305 rests on top of the annular footing 320, and the axial restraint plate 310 rests on top of the annular ledge plate 305.

[0060] When the plates 305, 310, 315 are installed in the ring base 105, internal edges of the plates 305, 310, 315 define a wall 400 of a cavity 405 that receives the key shaft 205 during connection of the ring base 105 to a setting 1 10. Rotational alignment of the axial restraint plate 310 relative to the locking plate 315 is maintained by pins 410 of the axial restraint plate 310 received in corresponding notches 415 of the locking plate 315.

[0061 ] Connection and de-connection operation. The operation of securely connecting the ring base 105 to a setting 110 is described in detail below.

[0062] FIG. 5 is a first partial perspective view of the interchangeable connector system 100 (but with the locking plate 315, sheath 330 and top portion of the setting 1 10 removed for clarity). The key shaft 205 is shown partially installed in the cavity 405 of the female connector subsystem 1 15. Although not shown in FIG. 5, the top portion of a jewellery/ring setting 1 10, such as a precious stone, is fixed to the top circular surface of the key shaft 205 by any suitable means. A bottom surface of each key tab 210 rests on top of a primary retaining ledge 500 of the annular ledge plate 305.

[0063] According to some embodiments, when the key shaft 205 is in the position shown in FIG. 5, magnetic attraction between magnetic elements included in a bottom of the cavity 405 and at a distal end of the key shaft 205 can be strong enough to be felt by a user and to hold the setting 1 10 against the primary retaining ledge 500.

[0064] To further secure the setting 1 10 to the ring base 105, the key shaft 205 is rotated clockwise (from the perspective of FIG. 5) until each key tab 210 is aligned along the longitudinal axis 325 with a recess 505 in the primary retaining ledge 500. Following such alignment, the key shaft 205 is further inserted into the cavity 405 until each key tab 210 rests on a top surface of the annular footing 320.

[0065] FIG. 6 is a second partial perspective view of the interchangeable connector system 100 (but with the locking plate 315 removed for clarity). Each key tab 210 is positioned in a recess 505 in the primary retaining ledge 500.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the amount of rotation of the key shaft 205 relative to the base 105, between FIGs 5 and 6, is about 90 degrees.

[0067] Restraining tabs 600 of the axial restraint plate 310 will prevent axial withdrawal of the key shaft 205 from the cavity 405, after rotation to a final locked position as described below, because each key tab 210 is rotated underneath a corresponding restraining tab 600.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a first partial top view of the interchangeable connector system 100, showing only the key 200 and the locking plate 315, after the key shaft 205 has been initially inserted into the cavity 405 of the female connector subsystem 1 15 and rotated 90 degrees. Thus, in both FIGs. 6 and 7 the key shaft 205 is in the same axial and rotational position relative to the ring base 205. As shown, when the key shaft 205 is first inserted into the cavity 405 (and before any rotation), the key tabs 210 move downward through recesses 700 defined by the locking plate 315. Only after the key tabs 210 are moved axially past the locking plate 315, and contact the annular ledge plate 305, can the key tabs 210 rotate freely under the locking plate 315, and drop into the recesses 505 in the primary retaining ledge 500, to the position shown in FIGs. 6 and 7.

[0069] In FIG. 7, the cam lobes 215 on the key shaft 205 are positioned adjacent a neck 705 of a detent spring 710. From this position, a final clockwise rotation of the key shaft 205, of about 40 degrees, moves each cam lobe 215 over its corresponding detent spring 710, and thus locks the key shaft 205 into its final connected and secured position on the ring base 105.

[0070] According to some embodiments, movement of the cam lobes 215 over the detent springs 710 provides haptic and/or audible feedback to a user. For example, haptic feedback is provided by the increased resistance to rotation of the key shaft 205 as the cam lobes 215 force the detent springs 710 outward, and by magnetic attraction between the key and the base. Audible feedback, such as an audible “click”, is provided when the detent springs 710 spring back after the cam lobes 215 move to their final locked position.

[0071 ] FIG. 8 is a second partial top view of the interchangeable connector system 100, showing only the key 200 and the locking plate 315. Here, key shaft 205 is shown rotated to where the cam lobes 215 are directly adjacent the detent springs 710, such that the detent springs 710 are maximally compressed outward.

[0072] FIG. 9 is a third partial top view of the interchangeable connector system 100 in a final locked position, showing only the key 200 and the locking plate 315. Here, key shaft 205 is shown rotated to where the cam lobes 215 have moved past the detent springs 710, such that the cam lobes 215 have clicked into their final locked positions.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 9, the final locked position further clockwise rotation of the key shaft 205 is blocked, as the cam lobes 215 abut restraining tabs 900 of the detent plate 315. Also, further counterclockwise rotation of the key shaft 205 is resisted, as the cam lobes 215 also abut the detent springs 710. Further, axially withdrawing the key shaft 205 from the ring base 105 is blocked, as a top surface of the key tabs 210 contact a bottom surface of the axial restraint plate 310. Thus, the setting 1 10 is securely locked to the ring base 105, and the system 100 has the look and feel of a single, integrally formed and solid jewellery item.

[0074] Removing the setting 1 10 from the ring base 105 simply requires the reversal of the above steps of rotational and axial movement. Counterclockwise rotation of the key shaft 205 first moves the cam lobes 215 past the detent springs 710. During such a first removal step the user again can be provided haptic and audible feedback, as the detent springs 710 move outward and then click back into position. The key shaft 205 is then withdrawn axially until the top surface of the key tabs 210 strikes the bottom surface of the locking plate 315. Next, a further counterclockwise rotation of the key shaft 205 slides the key tabs 210 over the primary retaining ledge 500 until the key tabs 210 align axially with the recesses 700 in the locking plate 315. Finally, the key shaft 205 is free to be axially withdrawn, separating the setting 1 10 from the ring base 105.

[0075] FIG. 10 is a further perspective view of the female connector subsystem 1 15, showing all three of the plates 305, 310, 315 stacked on top of each other to define the wall 400 of the cavity 405. Such a stacked plate structure of the subsystem 1 15 generally assists in the manufacture and assembly of the subsystem 1 15. However, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, alternative embodiments of the present invention can include integrally formed features, without the use of plates, that nevertheless define a similar wall and cavity structure.

[0076] Other mechanisms to enable and enhance the “design for manufacture” of the interchangeable connector system 100 are also possible. For example, alternative manufacturing options include: a) casting the structure of the subsystem 1 15 as one complete piece (excluding the locking plate 315), which can reduce the cost and complexity of the manufacturing process whilst still preserving full functionality of the system; and b) laser cutting of the locking plate 315 from a stamped sheet of metal which helps create and retain the spring effect of the detent springs 415. [0077] In particular, according to some embodiments, titanium (TA2) can be employed for the key 200 due to its superior wear resistance compared to gold- on-gold surface contact, which can be susceptible to rapid wear. Such a titanium key 200 can be securely riveted onto the back of, for example, a gold setting 1 10, as joining the two metals using conventional jewellery manufacturing techniques, such as soldering, is generally not feasible.

[0078] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that other features of the present invention as described above can be deleted, substituted or replaced in various alternative embodiments. For example, the positioning of the detent springs 710 and cam lobes 215 can be readily reversed, or such elements can be replaced with alternative locking elements, such as magnets or alternative spring types, while achieving the same overall functionality of the interchangeable connector system 100.

[0079] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that alternative embodiments of the present invention are not limited to jewellery items, such as rings and pendants, but can be applied to numerous other applications, such as other fashion accessories, electronic components, machine components, games, toys, furniture, industrial and interior design elements, and anywhere that a secure interchangeable connector system is required.

[0080] Also, those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of the present invention can be implemented using a wide variety of different materials, such as metal, including gold, silver, titanium and platinum, metal alloys, and various polymers and ceramics.

[0081 ] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. Numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, this patent specification is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above described invention.

Claims

CLAIMS We claim:

1 . An interchangeable connector system, comprising: a base, comprising: a wall defining a cavity having a longitudinal axis; a primary retaining ledge inside the cavity, the primary retaining ledge having a recess; and a first detent element spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a key comprising a key shaft, wherein extending from the key shaft are a key tab and, longitudinally spaced from the key tab along the key shaft, a second detent element; whereby in use: the key is inserted into the cavity and the wall guides the key to a first axial position where the key tab contacts the primary retaining ledge; a first rotation of the key slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis; further insertion of the key into the cavity moves the key tab into the recess to a second axial position; and a second rotation of the key engages the first detent element with the second detent element, thereby connecting the key to the base.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein a first magnetic element is positioned in the cavity, and a second magnetic element that attracts the first magnetic element is positioned at a distal end of the key.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the base and key each define a jewellery element that is interchangeable with other jewellery elements.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the wall of the base comprises a plurality of stacked plates; and the plurality of stacked plates includes a first plate that defines the primary retaining ledge, and a second plate that defines the first detent element.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the second plate further defines an intermediate retaining ledge, whereby, following the first rotation of the key, axial movement of the key out of the cavity is restrained by the key tab contacting an underside of the intermediate retaining ledge.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein an axial restraint plate is positioned between the first and second plates.

7. The system of claim 7, wherein the axial restraint plate comprises a pair of restraining tabs.

8. The system of claim 6, whereby, following the second rotation of the key, axial movement of the key out of the cavity is restrained by the key tab contacting an underside of the axial restraint plate.

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the primary retaining ledge of the base comprises a plurality of recesses; and a plurality of key tabs extend from the key shaft.

10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the key tab is positioned at a distal end of the key shaft.

11. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the primary retaining ledge of the base comprises a pair of recesses; and a pair of key tabs extend from the key shaft.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the base comprises a plurality of first detent elements spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a plurality of second detent elements extend from the key shaft; wherein each first detent element is engageable with a second detent element.

13. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the base comprises a pair of first detent elements spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a pair of second detent elements extend from the key shaft; wherein each first detent element is engageable with a second detent element.

14. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first detent element is a detent spring and the second detent element is a cam lobe.

15. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first rotation of the key, which slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis, is about 90 degrees.

16. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second rotation of the key, which engages the first detent element with the second detent element, is about 40 degrees.

17. The system of claim 1 , wherein the base further comprises: a body that supports the wall defining the cavity, and a sheath for securing the wall to the body.

18. The system of claim 1 , wherein a material of the base or key is defined by one or more of the following: metal, metal alloy, gold, or silver.

19. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second rotation of the key, which engages the first detent element with the second detent element, provides haptic feedback to a user.

20. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second rotation of the key, which engages the first detent element with the second detent element, provides audible feedback to a user.

21 . An interchangeable connector system, comprising: a base, comprising: a wall defining a cavity having a longitudinal axis; a primary retaining ledge inside the cavity, the primary retaining ledge having a recess; and a first locking element spaced apart from the primary retaining ledge along the longitudinal axis; and a key comprising a key shaft, wherein extending from the key shaft are a key tab and, longitudinally spaced from the key tab along the key shaft, a second locking element; whereby in use: the key is inserted into the cavity and the wall guides the key to a first axial position where the key tab contacts the primary retaining ledge; a first rotation of the key slides the key tab along the primary retaining ledge to align with the recess along the longitudinal axis; further insertion of the key into the cavity moves the key tab into the recess to a second axial position; and a second rotation of the key engages the first locking element with the second locking element, thereby connecting the key to the base.