A modular joint for battery cooling

Abstract

The utility model discloses a modularization is used for battery cooling's joint, and this joint is constituted by male head, female head and replaceable external joint, realizes modularization design, reduces maintenance cost, and external joint is connected with female head thread, guarantees sealing performance. The cooperation of the locking assembly and the plug assembly, the former contains L-shaped clamping head, pivot etc, realizes male head flexible clamping separation, the latter automatically controls the cavity on-off when male head is plugged, avoids medium leakage. The adjustable limiting column is equipped in the handle part of the clamping head, improves the connection stability and adaptability, and the ring groove and sealing ring of female head inner side wall constitute sealing assembly, enhance sealing effect. In addition, the pull ring design of handle part, convenient male head pulls out, reduces the operation difficulty, and the reliability and maintenance efficiency of battery cooling system are improved as a whole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water-cooled connector technology, specifically to a modular connector for battery cooling. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of new energy vehicles and energy storage systems, thermal management of power batteries has become a core factor affecting their performance and safety. Battery cooling systems achieve temperature control through circulating cooling media, and the quick-connect fittings in the cooling pipelines directly determine the reliability of fluid transmission and maintenance efficiency. Traditional fixed fittings have significant shortcomings in terms of frequent disassembly and assembly, modular adaptation, and leak prevention, especially under complex operating conditions, which can easily lead to sealing failure or structural loosening. Therefore, an innovative connection solution that combines quick locking, self-adaptive sealing, and modular expansion capabilities is urgently needed.

[0003] Traditional battery cooling connectors typically employ a fixed structural design for pipe connection and cooling medium transfer. These connectors are usually integrally molded and connected to the cooling pipe via welding or fixed assembly. This design lacks flexibility in the connection between the connector and the cooling pipe; damage to any part often necessitates replacement of the entire connector, leading to high maintenance costs. Furthermore, the sealing and locking designs of existing connectors are often inadequate, resulting in a high risk of cooling medium leakage and impacting the overall efficiency of the cooling system. In addition, the operation of the connectors for pipe on / off control is complex and fails to meet the rapid response requirements of battery cooling systems under various operating conditions.

[0004] Therefore, the above problems urgently need to be solved. Utility Model Content

[0005] Purpose of the utility model: In order to overcome the above shortcomings, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a modular connector for battery cooling. The modular design is achieved by setting a male connector, a female connector and a replaceable external connector, which facilitates the individual replacement and maintenance of the connector components. By using the locking components symmetrically arranged on the radial outer side wall of the female connector and the plugging components in the cavity, the reliable locking of the male connector and the cavity can be achieved, as well as the functions of passage and plugging, simplifying the operation process.

[0006] Technical Solution: This utility model provides a modular connector for battery cooling, including a male connector, a female connector, and a replaceable external connector. The male connector has a pair of symmetrically arranged arc grooves on its outer side wall. The female connector has a cavity inside, and the male connector is inserted into the cavity from one side and engages with the female connector. The external connector is inserted into the cavity from the other side and threadedly connected to the female connector for connecting a battery cooling hose. A pair of locking components and a plugging component are also included. The locking components are symmetrically arranged on the radial outer side wall of the female connector, and the plugging component is located inside the cavity, used to achieve both passage and blockage of the cavity. The locking component includes a locking head, which is inserted into the cavity. When the male connector is inserted into the cavity, the end of the male connector exerts pressure on the plugging component. After pressure, the plugging component moves axially along the cavity, at which point the cavity is in a passage state, and the locking head engages in the arc groove, thereby locking the male connector. When the male connector is pulled out of the container, the plugging component resets, and the cavity is in a blocked state. The male connector can be easily inserted into the cavity of the female connector from one side for a snap-fit ​​connection. This simple operation significantly improves the efficiency of connector connections during battery cooling system assembly. The external connector is inserted into the cavity from the other side of the female connector and threadedly connected to it, ensuring a secure connection to the battery cooling hose. The threaded connection provides reliable sealing, preventing coolant leakage and ensuring stable operation of the cooling system. When the male connector is inserted into the cavity, its end presses against the plugging component, causing it to move axially along the cavity, thus opening the cavity and allowing the coolant to flow within the connector for battery cooling. This process requires no additional manual operation, automatically opening the cooling passage. When the male connector is pulled out of the cavity, the plugging component resets, and the cavity is sealed, preventing coolant leakage. This automatic sealing function avoids unnecessary coolant loss and environmental pollution during battery cooling system maintenance, repair, or component replacement.

[0007] Furthermore, in a modular connector for battery cooling in this application, the locking assembly further includes a pair of baffles and a rotating shaft. The baffles are axially disposed on the outer side wall of the female head, and the rotating shaft is radially disposed between the two baffles. The locking head is sleeved on the rotating shaft. A pair of notches are symmetrically opened on the female head, and the notches correspond to the locking head. The locking head can rotate along the rotating shaft.

[0008] Furthermore, this application discloses a modular connector for battery cooling. The plug assembly includes a plug and a spring, both disposed within a cavity. Initially, when the male connector is not inserted, the outer connector is screwed into the female connector. The two ends of the spring abut against the outer connector and the plug respectively along the axial direction of the female connector. The plug, under the action of the spring, blocks the cavity. The rotary locking head, after being engaged in the arc groove, forms a stable locking structure, effectively resisting accidental disengagement of the male connector due to vibration, external pulling, or other factors.

[0009] Furthermore, this application discloses a modular connector for battery cooling. The locking head is L-shaped, including a locking portion and a handle portion. The rotating shaft passes through the locking portion, and the locking portion rotates through the rotating shaft into a notch and engages with an arc groove. When the male head is fully inserted into the female head, the male head abuts against the plug, and the plug moves along the axial direction of the female head, at which point the cavity is open. When the male head needs to be removed, it is first inserted further, further pressing against the plug to move the locking head out of the arc groove. After rotating the male head, it is pulled out, and the plug returns to its original position under the action of a spring, sealing the cavity. During the insertion of the male head into the female head, the locking portion rotates through the rotating shaft into the notch and engages with the arc groove, achieving initial connection. When the male head is fully inserted, it abuts against the plug, opening the cavity and completing the final connection. This two-stage connection mechanism not only ensures the accuracy of the connection but also allows the operator to confirm the connection status by touch and sight, reducing the risk of misoperation. When the male head needs to be removed, it is first inserted further, further pressing against the plug to move the locking head out of the arc groove, and then the male head is rotated and pulled out. This orderly separation process effectively avoids damage to the connector or leakage of cooling medium caused by the chuck not being completely disengaged during the separation process, ensuring operational safety.

[0010] Furthermore, in this application, a modular connector for battery cooling has a limiting post at the end of the handle portion away from the pivot and facing the outer side of the female connector. The distance between the limiting post and the outer side of the female connector is adjustable. By adjusting the distance of the limiting post, a stable connection can be ensured in different scenarios.

[0011] Furthermore, a modular connector for battery cooling in this application also includes a sealing assembly. The sealing assembly is disposed on the inner wall of the female connector and includes a set of annular grooves and a set of sealing rings. The annular grooves are formed circumferentially along the inner wall of the female connector, and the sealing rings are embedded in the annular grooves. The inner wall of the female connector has a set of annular grooves formed circumferentially and a set of sealing rings embedded therein, forming a multi-seal structure.

[0012] Furthermore, in a modular connector for battery cooling described in this application, the handle portion is further provided with a through hole through which a pull ring is inserted. Compared to directly applying force to the clip, the pull ring allows the operator to remove the clip from the arc groove more easily with less force, thus completing the pull-out operation of the male connector.

[0013] As can be seen from the above technical solution, this utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0014] 1. The modular connector for battery cooling described in this utility model achieves quick assembly and disassembly and independent component replacement through a combination design of modular male and female connectors and replaceable external connectors, reducing maintenance costs; the dual-stage locking mechanism and automatic plugging function ensure connection reliability and sealing, significantly improving the safety and maintenance efficiency of the battery cooling system.

[0015] 2. The modular connector for battery cooling described in this utility model optimizes the operation process and flow control through the coordinated design of a locking component and a plugging component. The L-shaped locking head in the locking component, in conjunction with the rotating shaft, baffle, and female connector notch, enables flexible engagement and disengagement of the male connector. This two-stage connection mechanism ensures accurate connection and reduces the risk of misoperation. During the insertion and removal of the male connector, the plugging component automatically controls the flow and blockage of the cavity, preventing leakage and loss of the cooling medium during maintenance and repair. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a modular connector structure for battery cooling according to the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a modular connector for battery cooling according to the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a modular connector for battery cooling according to the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the male connector structure of a modular connector for battery cooling according to this utility model.

[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the instruction manual:

[0021] 1-Male connector, 11-Arc groove;

[0022] 2-Female head; 21-Cavity; 22-Notch;

[0023] 3-External connector;

[0024] 4-Locking assembly, 41-Locking head, 411-Locking part, 412-Handle part, 4121-Through hole, 4122-Pull ring, 413-Limiting post, 42-Baffle, 43-Rotating shaft;

[0025] 5-Plug assembly, 51-Plug head, 52-Spring;

[0026] 6-Sealing assembly, 61-Ring groove, 62-Sealing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The present invention will be further explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] like Figure 1-4As shown, the modular battery cooling connector provided in this embodiment includes a male connector 1, a female connector 2, a replaceable external connector 3, a pair of locking components 4, a plug component 5, and a sealing component 6. The materials of each component can be selected from low-temperature resistant and corrosion-resistant metals such as aluminum alloy or engineering plastics such as nylon 66 to meet the operating requirements of the battery cooling system.

[0030] I. Component Structure and Connection Relationships

[0031] Male head 1 and female head 2

[0032] The male connector 1 has a pair of symmetrical arc grooves 11 on its outer side wall, which extend along the male connector axis and are used to mate with the locking assembly 4. The female connector 2 has a cavity 21 inside, with one end open for inserting the male connector 1 and the other end open for connecting the external connector 3. The female connector 2 has a pair of symmetrical notches 22 on its outer side wall, which correspond to the position of the locking head 41 of the locking assembly 4, allowing the locking head 41 to rotate into the cavity 21.

[0033] External connector 3

[0034] The external connector 3 is a hollow tubular structure with external threads on its outer side wall, which mate with the internal threads on the inner side wall of the female connector 2 to achieve a threaded connection. The other end of the external connector 3 is used to connect to the battery cooling hose, which is fixed by a clamp or quick-connect structure.

[0035] Locking component 4

[0036] The locking assembly 4 includes an L-shaped locking head 41, a pair of baffles 42, and a rotating shaft 43. The baffles 42 are welded to the outer side wall along the axial direction of the female head 2, and the rotating shaft 43 passes through the middle of the two baffles 42. The locking head 41 is divided into a locking part 411 and a handle part 412. The locking part 411 has a shaft hole that fits onto the rotating shaft 43, allowing it to rotate around the shaft 43. The end of the handle part 412 away from the rotating shaft 43 has a limiting post 413, which is threaded to the handle part 412, allowing adjustment of its distance from the outer side of the female head 2 to ensure connection stability under different working conditions. The handle part 412 also has a through hole 4121 through which a pull ring 4122 passes. The pull ring 4122 is a ring-shaped metal piece, facilitating the application of force to pull out the male head 1.

[0037] 5th Castone Components

[0038] The plug assembly 5 includes a plug head 51 and a spring 52. The spring 52 is a compression spring. In the initial state, when the male head is not inserted, one end of the spring 52 abuts against the inner side of the outer connector 3, and the other end abuts against the plug head 51, pushing the plug head 51 towards the annular protrusion in the cavity 21, thereby blocking the cavity 21.

[0039] Sealing component 6

[0040] Two sets of annular grooves 61 are opened along the circumference on the inner side wall of the female head 2, and the embedded sealing rings 62 are made of EPDM rubber, forming a double sealing structure to enhance the sealing performance between the male head 1 and the female head 2.

[0041] II. Assembly and Operation Procedures

[0042] Assembly process

[0043] Screw the outer connector 3 into the rear end of the female connector 2 and fix it by thread connection. At this time, the spring 52 and the plug 51 are installed in the cavity 21. The spring 52 is in the initial compressed state and the plug 51 seals the cavity.

[0044] The male head 1 is inserted into the cavity 21 from the front end of the female head 2. The end of the male head 1 contacts the plug 51 and presses forward. The plug 51 compresses the spring 52 and moves backward, thus opening the cavity 21. At the same time, the engaging part 411 of the locking head 41 rotates under the action of the rotating shaft 43 and engages with the arc groove 11 of the male head 1, completing the locking. By adjusting the distance between the limiting post 413 and the outer side of the female head 2, it is ensured that the locking head 41 is locked tightly without any wobbling.

[0045] Separation process

[0046] When it is necessary to remove the male head 1, first gently push the male head 1 along the axial direction to further compress the spring 52 of the plug head 51, and move the engaging part 411 of the clamp head 41 out of the arc groove 11. At the same time, rotate the male head 1 to disengage the clamp head 41 from the notch 22.

[0047] Pull the male head 1 out of the female head 2, and the plug 51 will reset under the elastic force of the spring 52, re-plugging the cavity 21 to prevent leakage of cooling medium.

[0048] III. Working Principle and Beneficial Effects

[0049] Modular design: Male connector 1, female connector 2, and external connector 3 can be disassembled and replaced independently. When a component is damaged, there is no need to replace the whole thing, reducing maintenance costs.

[0050] Automatic plugging and sealing: The male head automatically opens the cavity when inserted and automatically plugs when pulled out. Combined with the multiple sealing structure of the sealing ring 62, it effectively prevents the leakage of cooling medium.

[0051] Easy operation and stable connection: The L-shaped locking head 41, together with the limiting post 413 and the pull ring 4122, enables quick locking and disengagement. The adjustable limiting post can be adapted to different installation scenarios, improving connection reliability.

[0052] The above embodiments are exemplary and are intended to illustrate the technical concept and features of this utility model, so that those skilled in the art can understand the content of this utility model and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of this utility model should be covered within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A modular connector for battery cooling, characterized in that: include: The device includes a male connector (1), a female connector (2), and a replaceable external connector (3). The male connector (1) has a pair of symmetrical arc grooves (11) on its outer side wall. The female connector (2) has a cavity (21) inside. The male connector (1) is inserted into the cavity (21) from one side and engages with the female connector (2). The external connector (3) is inserted into the cavity (21) from the other side and threadedly connected to the female connector (2). This device is used to connect a battery cooling hose. A pair of locking components (4) and a plugging component (5) are provided. The pair of locking components (4) are symmetrically arranged on the radial outer wall of the female head (2). The plugging component (5) is located in the cavity (21) and is used to realize the passage and plugging of the cavity (21). The locking component (4) includes a locking head (41). The locking head (41) is inserted into the cavity (21). When the male head (1) is inserted into the cavity (21), the end of the male head (1) exerts a pressing force on the plugging component (5). After pressing, the plugging component (5) moves axially along the cavity (21). At this time, the cavity (21) is in the passage state, and the locking head (41) is locked into the arc groove (11), thereby locking the male head (1). When the male head (1) is pulled out from the cavity (21), the plugging component (5) is reset. At this time, the cavity (21) is in the plugging state.

2. A modular connector for battery cooling according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking assembly (4) also includes a pair of baffles (42) and a rotating shaft (43). The baffles (42) are arranged axially on the outer side wall of the female head (2). The rotating shaft (43) is arranged radially between the two baffles (42) and the locking head (41) is sleeved on the rotating shaft (43). A pair of notches (22) are symmetrically opened on the female head (2). The notches (22) correspond to the locking head (41). The locking head (41) can rotate along the rotating shaft (43).

3. A modular connector for battery cooling according to claim 2, characterized in that: The plug assembly (5) includes a plug (51) and a spring (52). The plug (51) and the spring (52) are located in the cavity (21). In the initial state, when the male head (1) is not inserted, the external connector (3) is screwed into the female head (2). The two ends of the spring (52) abut against the external connector (3) and the plug (51) respectively in the axial direction of the female head (2). The plug (51) blocks the cavity (21) under the action of the spring (52).

4. A modular connector for battery cooling according to claim 3, characterized in that: The locking head (41) is L-shaped and includes a locking part (411) and a handle part (412). The rotating shaft (43) passes through the locking part (411). The locking part (411) rotates into the notch (22) and locks into the arc groove (11) through the rotating shaft (43). When the male head (1) is fully inserted into the female head (2), the male head (1) abuts against the plug (51). The plug (51) moves along the axial direction of the female head (2). At this time, the cavity (21) is open. When the male head (1) needs to be pulled out, it is first inserted again. At this time, the plug (51) is further pressed, so that the locking head (41) moves out of the arc groove (11). After rotating the male head (1), it is pulled out. At this time, the plug (51) is reset under the action of the spring (52) and the cavity (21) is blocked.

5. A modular connector for battery cooling according to claim 4, characterized in that: The handle (412) is provided with a limiting post (413) at the end away from the rotating shaft (43) and facing the outer side of the female head (2), and the distance between the limiting post (413) and the outer side of the female head (2) is adjustable.

6. A modular connector for battery cooling according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a sealing component (6), which is located on the inner wall of the female head (2) and includes a set of annular grooves (61) and a set of sealing rings (62). The annular grooves (61) are opened circumferentially along the inner wall of the female head (2), and the sealing rings (62) are embedded in the annular grooves (61).

7. A modular connector for battery cooling according to claim 4, characterized in that: The handle (412) is also provided with a through hole (4121), and a pull ring (4122) is inserted through the through hole (4121).

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