Method and system for a latch plate assembly in a motor vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods and systems for a latch plate assembly in a motor vehicle, and provides methods and systems for a latch plate assembly for coupling a duct to a housing of an engine component. In one example, the latch plate assembly includes: a first latch plate coupleable to a first duct; and a second latch plate coupleable to a second duct, the first latch plate and the second latch plate being coupleable to the housing, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are configured together to define an aperture at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate. The aperture receives a fastener to couple the first and second latch plates to the housing, and wherein the aperture has a perimeter, the first latch plate defining a first portion of the aperture perimeter and the second latch plate defining a second portion of the aperture perimeter, the first and second portions together defining the aperture perimeter.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority from UK Patent Application No. 1712499.1 filed on August 3, 2017. The entire contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present description generally relates to methods and systems for a latch plate assembly for coupling a duct to a motor vehicle housing to improve ease of assembly of the latch plate assembly to the housing. Background Art

[0004] One or more conduits may be coupled to an engine component to carry fluid to or from the engine component. For example, engine coolant may enter an exhaust turbine via a first conduit and exit the turbine via a second conduit. Each of the first and second conduits may be coupled to a housing of the engine component via a latch plate. The latch plate coupled to each of the plurality of conduits may be attached to the housing via fasteners.

[0005] However, the inventors herein have recognized potential problems with such a system. As an example, when two latch plates, each coupled to a separate pipe, are attached to the housing via fasteners, the two latch plates may overlap so that a single fastener can attach each latch plate to the housing. Due to the overlap of the latch plates, one of the two pipes may be placed higher than the other relative to the housing. Consequently, the geometry of the pipes and the positioning of the seals used to hold the pipes in place within the housing may have to be adjusted to account for the different positions of the two pipes. Furthermore, during assembly of the pipes to the housing, the latch plates may be placed in the wrong order (such as a first latch plate designed to be at the top may be placed below a second latch plate designed to be at the bottom). Due to the geometry of the pipes and the custom seals configured for individual accessories, attaching the latch plates in the wrong order may adversely affect the integrity of the coupling. For example, the seals may not be able to suppress leakage of fluid in the pipes. Additionally, misalignment of the pipes with engine components can cause stress in the assembly, thereby affecting the durability of the components. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one example, the problems described above can be at least partially addressed by a latch plate assembly for coupling a duct to a housing, the latch plate assembly comprising: a first latch plate coupleable to a first duct; and a second latch plate coupleable to a second duct, the first latch plate and the second latch plate being coupleable to the housing, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are together configured to define an aperture at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate, wherein the aperture receives a fastener to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing, and wherein the aperture has a perimeter, the first latch plate defining a first portion of the aperture perimeter and the second latch plate defining a second portion of the aperture perimeter, the first portion and the second portion together defining the aperture perimeter, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate each include a plurality of teeth, wherein the plurality of teeth of one latch plate are configured to mesh with the plurality of teeth of the other latch plate in a staggered manner. In this way, two symmetrical, coplanar latch plates can be used to effectively attach two ducts to an engine component.

[0007] As an example, a first latch plate can be coupled (such as welded) to a first pipe and a second latch plate can be coupled (such as welded) to a second pipe. A set of teeth can be formed on one side of each of the two latch plates. In the first latch, the toothed side can define half of the circumference of the hole, while in the second latch, the toothed side can define the other half of the circumference of the hole. The adjacent sides of the first latch plate and the second latch plate with teeth can interlock to form a planar surface. Based on the interlocking of the two latch plates, the hole can be defined at the center of the planar surface. Fasteners can be inserted into the holes to secure the latch plates, each coupled to a pipe, to the housing of the engine component. Pipe connectors can be attached to the ends of the pipes that contact the respective latch plates. The pipe connectors can be inserted into respective housing ports formed in the housing of the engine component and the pipe connectors can be retained in the housing ports via seals such as O-rings.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a latch plate assembly for coupling a duct to a housing, for example, for a motor vehicle, is provided. The latch plate assembly includes: a first latch plate that can be coupled to a first duct; and a second latch plate that can be coupled to a second duct, the first latch plate and the second latch plate being coupleable to the housing, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are together configured to define an aperture at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate. The aperture can receive a fastener to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing and wherein the aperture can have a perimeter, for example, extending around a longitudinal axis of the aperture. The first latch plate can define a first portion of the perimeter of the aperture and the second latch plate can define a second portion of the perimeter of the aperture, the first portion and the second portion together defining the perimeter of the aperture. The first latch plate and the second latch plate can each include a plurality of teeth, wherein the teeth of one latch plate are configured to engage with the teeth of the other latch plate in a staggered manner.

[0009] The first latch plate and the second latch plate can be provided adjacent to each other, for example, in a side-by-side relationship. The first latch plate and the second latch plate can be non-overlapping, for example, in a direction away from the housing, in the orientation of the fastener hole. The interface can define a plane that cuts through the hole with the longitudinal axis of the hole lying within the cutting plane. In other words, the interface can be within a plane that is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the hole.

[0010] Each of the first latch plate and the second latch plate can define half of the fastener hole, for example, a semicircular portion of the fastener hole perimeter. Alternatively, the first latch plate and the second latch plate can define different portions of the fastener hole perimeter.

[0011] The first latch plate and the second latch plate can be configured together to define a fastener surface, e.g., around the aperture, against which a shoulder of the fastener abuts to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing. For example, the shoulder of the fastener can clamp the first latch plate and the second latch plate against the housing at the fastener surface. The fastener surface can be defined on an upper surface of the first latch plate and an upper surface of the second latch plate.

[0012] The first and second latch plates may be configured such that when the first and second latch plates are coupled to the housing via fasteners, the first and second conduits may be placed in fluid communication with first and second ports, respectively, provided on the housing.

[0013] The first and second latch plates can be common components. In other words, external dimensions, such as size, shape, and thickness, of the first and second latch plates can be identical. Alternatively, one or more of the size, shape, and thickness can vary. In some arrangements, holes or other features provided in the first and second latch plates for coupling to the first and second conduits can have different sizes between the first and second latch plates.

[0014] The first latch plate and the second latch plate may each include an engagement portion configured to interlock with an engagement portion provided on the other of the first latch plate and the second latch plate, the engagement portions of the first latch plate and the second latch plate forming an interface. The first latch plate and the second latch plate may be substantially planar. The latch plates may interlock in a plane common to both the first latch plate and the second latch plate.

[0015] The teeth may be straight, e.g., square or rectangular, trapezoidal in shape, e.g., having straight edges and beveled / angled edges or may be serrated teeth, e.g., triangular in shape. The latch plate assembly may further include a first duct and a second duct. The first duct may include a first duct connector disposed between an end of the first duct and the first latch plate when the first duct is coupled to the first latch plate. The second duct may include a second duct connector disposed between an end of the second duct and the second latch plate when the second duct is coupled to the second latch plate. In other words, the duct connectors may extend from the respective latch plates toward the housing. The duct connectors may be coupled to the ducts. Alternatively, the duct connectors may be integrally formed with the ducts.

[0016] When the latch plate is coupled to the housing, the pipe connector can be received within a corresponding port of the housing. Alternatively, when the latch plate is coupled to the housing, the pipe connector can be arranged around the port of the housing. The pipe connector can at least partially receive the housing port.

[0017] The first and second pipe connectors can be of the same length. Alternatively, the first and second pipe connectors can be of different lengths. The port of the housing can include connecting portions of different lengths to accommodate the lengths of corresponding pipe connectors, such as the length of a pipe in fluid communication with the port.

[0018] Each of the first and second pipe connectors may include a sealing component, such as an O-ring seal, configured to create a seal between the housing and the first and second pipe connectors, respectively. The sealing component may be configured to engage a corresponding housing port.

[0019] The sealing member may be spaced apart from the latch plate, for example, by a respective predetermined distance along the pipe connector when the pipe is coupled to the latch plate. The sealing member may be spaced apart from the first latch plate and the second latch plate by the same distance. Alternatively, the sealing member may be spaced apart from the first latch plate and the second latch plate by different respective distances. The housing port may include a sealing surface configured to engage the sealing member of the respective pipe connector.

[0020] In some arrangements, the first and second pipe connectors can be configured in the same manner, for example, the size and shape of the first and second pipe connectors, as well as the location of sealing features along the pipe connectors, can be the same. Consequently, the configuration of a housing port can also be the same as the configuration of another housing port. In other arrangements, the size and / or shape of the first and second pipe connectors, and / or the location of sealing features along the pipe ends, can differ between the first and second pipes, for example, such that the first pipe end cannot be received in a housing port configured to receive the second pipe end, and / or vice versa.

[0021] A housing assembly for a motor vehicle, for example, for a radiator, heater, ventilator, and air conditioning unit, or any other fluid circuit of a motor vehicle, may include the latch plate assembly mentioned above.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for a latch plate assembly for a motor vehicle is provided, wherein the method includes: coupling a first conduit to a first latch plate; coupling a second conduit to a second latch plate; arranging the first latch plate and the second latch plate so that a hole for receiving a fastener is defined at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate, wherein the hole has a perimeter, the first latch plate defines a first portion of the hole perimeter and the second latch plate defines a second portion of the hole perimeter, the first portion and the second portion together defining the hole perimeter, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate each include a plurality of teeth, wherein the teeth of one latch plate are configured to engage with the teeth of the other latch plate in a staggered manner; and coupling the first latch plate and the second latch plate to a housing using fasteners provided in the holes.

[0023] The first latch plate and the second latch plate may not overlap at the location of the fastener hole.The latch plates may be arranged so that the engaging portions of the first latch plate and the second latch plate interlock at the interface.

[0024] The method may further include placing the first conduit and the second conduit in fluid communication with a first port and a second port, respectively, defined by the housing. The method may further include sealing between the first conduit and the second conduit and the corresponding housing ports, for example, by placing a sealing member on the connectors of the first conduit and the second conduit such that the sealing member engages the corresponding housing ports.

[0025] In this way, by using a toothed latch plate to couple the pipes to the engine component, the latch plate can be positioned with a coplanar interface and the pipes can be coupled at equal distances relative to the engine component. Due to the equal distance of the pipes relative to the engine component, modifications to the pipe geometry and / or sealing components may no longer be required, thereby improving cost-effectiveness. A technical effect of using a symmetrical, toothed latch plate for coplanar coupling is that the possibility of incorrect assembly caused by attaching the latch plates in the reverse order may be eliminated. In this way, the design of the assembly can ensure that errors introduced during assembly are reduced.

[0026] It should be understood that the above summary is provided to introduce in simplified form a selection of concepts that will be further described in the detailed description. It is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is defined solely by the appended claims. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that address any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a latch plate assembly for a motor vehicle in a properly assembled condition, as seen in the prior art.

[0028] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a latch plate assembly for a motor vehicle in an incorrectly assembled condition, as seen in the prior art.

[0029] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a latch plate assembly for a motor vehicle, arranged in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a latch plate assembly arranged for a motor vehicle according to the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5 A block diagram depicting a method for latching a plate assembly according to arrangements of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a latch plate assembly coupling a pair of conduits to a turbocharger assembly.

[0033] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of a latch plate assembly shown on a turbocharger housing.

[0034] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing two latch plate assemblies coupling a pair of pipes to two separate engine components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following description relates to systems and methods for a latch plate assembly for coupling two or more ducts to an engine component. FIG1 shows a cross-sectional view of a latch plate assembly as seen in the prior art. FIG2 shows the latch plate arrangement of FIG1 incorrectly assembled. Figure 3 、 Figure 4 as well as Figure 6 A diagram of a latch plate assembly coupling a pair of pipes to an engine component is shown. Figure 7 As shown in , the latch plate assembly can be placed on the housing of the engine component. Figure 8 As shown in , multiple latch plate assemblies can be used to couple a pair of conduits to multiple different engine components. Figure 5 Shows the use of Figure 3 An example method of assembling two pipes to an engine component using a latch plate assembly.

[0036] 1 (Prior Art), a schematic diagram 100 shows a housing assembly 2 for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing 4, and first and second latch plates 6 and 8. A first conduit 10 is coupled to the first latch plate 6 and a second conduit 12 is coupled to the second latch plate 8. The first and second latch plates 6 and 8 are coupled to the housing via fasteners 14 such that the first and second conduits 10 and 12 are in fluid communication with the first and second housing ports 3 and 5, respectively.

[0037] The housing assembly may be used for a motor vehicle radiator, a heater, a motor vehicle ventilator and air conditioning system, a turbocharger or any other fluid circuit of a motor vehicle.The housing assembly may be provided within an engine assembly of a motor vehicle.

[0038] As depicted in FIG1 , fastener holes 6 c and fastener holes 8 c are formed in the first latch plate 6 and the second latch plate 8. When the first latch plate 6 and the second latch plate 8 are coupled to the housing 4, the first latch plate 6 and the second latch plate 8 are arranged to overlap each other so that the fastener holes 6 c and the fastener holes 8 c are aligned. The first latch plate 6 and the second latch plate 8 are coupled to the housing 4 by fasteners 14 that pass through the fastener holes 6 c and the fastener holes 8 c formed in both the latch plates 6 and 8.

[0039] Each of the first and second conduits 10, 12 includes a connector 16 and a connector 18 provided at the ends of the first and second conduits, respectively, adjacent to the first and second latch plates 6, 8. The connectors 16 and 18 extend from the latch plates and define openings 10a and 12a for the first and second conduits, respectively. As shown in FIG1 , when the latch plates 6 and 8 are coupled to the housing 4, the first and second connectors 16, 18 are partially received within the respective housing ports 3 and 5.

[0040] Each of the first and second connectors 16, 18 includes a sealing member 20, 22, such as an O-ring seal, configured to create a seal between the connector and the housing port. To create the seal, each of the first and second housing ports 3, 5 includes a sealing surface 3a, 5a configured to engage the sealing member 20, 22 of the corresponding pipe connector 16, 18. The sealing members 20, 22 are thus positioned at appropriate distances along the pipe connectors 16, 18, such as between the latch plates 6, 8 and the pipe openings 10a, 12a, so that when the latch plates are coupled to the housing, the sealing members 20, 22 engage the respective sealing surfaces 3a, 5a of the housing port 3, 5. The pipe connectors 16, 18 can be of different lengths to support the sealing members 20, 22 at different distances from the respective latch plates 6, 8.

[0041] 1 , the housing assembly 2 is properly assembled so that the lower surface 6 a of the first latch plate 6 is positioned against the housing 4 and the lower surface 8 a of the second latch plate 8 is positioned against the upper surface 6 b of the first latch plate. Thus, the second latch plate 8, such as the lower surface 8 a of the second latch plate, is spaced apart from the housing 4. The shoulder 14 a of the fastener 14 acts against the upper surface 8 b of the second latch plate to clamp the first latch plate 6 and the second latch plate 8 to the housing.

[0042] 1 , the first and second pipe connectors 16, 18 are received at a desired depth within the respective housing ports 3, 5. Additionally, the sealing members 20, 22 are positioned to engage the respective sealing surfaces 3a, 5a of the housing ports 3, 5.

[0043] 2, schematic diagram 200 shows the housing assembly 2 depicted in FIG1 being incorrectly assembled so that the lower surface 8a of the second latch plate is positioned against the housing 4 and the lower surface 6a of the first latch plate is positioned against the upper surface 8b of the second latch plate. When the housing assembly 2 is assembled in this manner, the shoulder 14a of the fastener 14 can be clamped against the upper surface 6b of the first latch plate.

[0044] When the housing assembly 2 is incorrectly assembled, the first pipe connector 16 may not be received to the desired depth within the first housing port 3. Furthermore, the sealing members 20 and 22 may not engage with the sealing surfaces 3 a and 5 a. Therefore, when the housing assembly 2 is incorrectly assembled, proper seals may not be formed between the first and second pipes 10 and 12 and the first and second housing ports 3 and 5, respectively.

[0045] Reference Figure 3 (Schematic diagram 300) and Figure 4 (Schematic diagram 400 ), the housing assembly 101 according to the present disclosure will now be described. The housing assembly 101 includes a housing 110 and a latch plate assembly 120 .

[0046] The latch plate assembly 120 includes a first latch plate 122 and a separate second latch plate 124. The two latch plates, 122 and 124, can be mirror images of each other. A first conduit 126 can be coupled to the first latch plate and a second conduit 128 can be coupled to the second latch plate 124. For example, the first latch plate and the second latch plate can each include conduit holes configured to receive the first conduit 126 and the second conduit 128, respectively.

[0047] The latch plates 122 and 124 can be substantially planar. In other words, the latch plates can have flat lower surfaces 122a and 124a that rest on a flat surface of the housing. Furthermore, the latch plates can have flat upper surfaces 122b and 124b. The lower surface 122a and upper surface 124a of each latch plate can be parallel to the upper surface 122b and lower surface 124b of the latch plate.

[0048] The housing includes a first port 112 and a second port 114. The housing 110 and the latch plate assembly 120 are configured such that when the housing assembly 101 is assembled, e.g., when the first and second latch plates are coupled to the housing, the first and second conduits 126 and 128 are arranged in fluid communication with the first and second housing ports 112, 114, respectively.

[0049] The first and second conduits 126, 128 include first and second conduit connectors 130, 132, which are provided at the ends 126a, 128a of the respective conduits and extend from the respective latch plates 122, 124. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the illustrated arrangement, the first and second pipe connectors 130, 132 are coupled to the pipe bodies 126b, 128b of the first and second pipes 126, 128. However, in other arrangements, the first and second pipe connectors 130, 132 may be integrally formed with the pipe bodies. For example, the first and second pipe connectors 130, 132 may be formed by lengths of the first and second pipe bodies 126b, 128b located at the ends 126a, 128a of the first and second pipes, respectively.

[0050] In the depicted arrangement, each of the ducts 124, 126 is coupled to the respective latch plates 122, 124 at a duct connector 130, 132 provided on the duct. However, in other arrangements, one or both of the ducts 126, 128 may be coupled to the respective latch plates at the duct bodies 126b, 128b, e.g., such that the duct connectors 130, 132 are disposed to one side of each of the associated latch plates.

[0051] The latch plate assembly 120 is coupled to the housing 110 via the fastener 116 so that the first conduit 126 and the second conduit 128 are in fluid communication with the first housing port 112 and the second housing port 114, respectively. Figure 4 As shown in , pipe connectors 130 and 132 are at least partially received in housing ports 112 and 114. In one example, after coupling, equal portions of each of pipe connectors 130 and 132 can be received in housing ports 112 and 114. Therefore, pipe connectors 112 and 114 can be coupled at equal heights relative to engine components. Due to the equal heights of pipes 126 and 128 relative to engine components, changes to the geometry of the corresponding pipe connectors and / or the geometry of the sealing components may not be required. However, it is contemplated that in an alternative arrangement, one or both of pipe connectors 130 and 132 can be configured to receive portions of the corresponding housing ports within the pipe connectors.

[0052] The first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 each include an engagement portion 123, an engagement portion 125. The engagement portions 123, 125 are configured to form an interface between the first latch plate 112 and the second latch plate 114 when the latch plate assembly 120 is assembled.

[0053] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As depicted in FIG, when the housing assembly 101 is assembled, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 are configured such that the latch plates are arranged side by side, at least in the orientation of the fastener 116. In other words, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 may not overlap in a direction away from the housing. The first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 are configured to interlock with each other at an interface. The first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 interlock in a plane where the planar latch plates coexist.

[0054] The engagement portions 123, 125 each include a plurality of teeth 123a, 125a. When the latch plate assembly 120 is assembled, the teeth 123a of the first latch plate mesh within the teeth 125a of the second latch plate in a staggered manner.

[0055] like Figure 3 As depicted in FIG, teeth 123a, 125a are trapezoidal in shape and include a straight edge, e.g., extending parallel to the side edge of the latch plate, an angled edge arranged at an angle to the straight edge, e.g., not parallel to the straight edge, and a distal edge between the straight edge and the angled edge. However, in other arrangements, teeth 123a, 125a may be straight, e.g., square or rectangular, or sawtooth-shaped, e.g., triangular, with a flat, pointed, or rounded distal end. Furthermore, teeth 123a, 125a may include one or more arcuate edges.

[0056] In the described arrangement, the latch plate includes two types of teeth 123a, 125a. The gaps between the teeth correspond to the shape of the teeth, for example, so that the teeth of the meshing latch plate can be received in the gaps between the teeth. In addition, the gaps between the teeth and the side edges of the latch plate can correspond to the shape of the teeth.

[0057] The first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 are configured to define a fastener hole 140 at an interface between the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124. Figure 3 In the configuration described in [ 15 ], each of the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 defines a half (e.g., a semicircular portion) of the fastener hole 140 (e.g., the perimeter of the fastener hole 140). However, in other arrangements, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 may define different perimeter portions of the fastener hole 140. As shown, portions of the fastener hole 140 may be formed in two of the teeth 123a, 125a provided on the meshing portions 123, 125 of the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124. The fastener hole 140 may be formed where the straight edges of the teeth 123a, 125a intersect.

[0058] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4When the fastener 116 is received in the fastener hole 140, the shoulder 116a of the fastener hole abuts a fastener surface 142, which is partially formed by the first latch plate 122, for example, by the upper surface 122b of the first latch plate, and partially formed by the second latch plate 124, for example, by the upper surface 124b of the second latch plate. The fastener 116 can be threaded into a threaded hole provided in the housing to couple the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 to the housing 110. The fastener shoulder acts against both the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124, for example, at the fastener surface 142, to clamp the first latch plate and the second latch plate against the housing 110.

[0059] The interlocking nature of the interface between the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 can prevent the latch plates from separating after the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 are coupled to the housing 110. For example, the interlocking nature of the interface can prevent the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 from pivoting about the first tube 126 and the second tube 128, respectively, to disconnect the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 from each other and one or both of the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 from the housing 110.

[0060] Because the latch plates 122, 124 may not overlap, the housing assembly 101 may not be incorrectly assembled in the same manner as the housing assembly depicted in Figures 1 and 2. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The design of the first and second latch plates 122, 124 depicted in the drawings therefore improves the ease of assembling the housing assembly and also ensures that a good seal is reliably formed between the conduits 126, 128 and the housing ports 112, 114, as described below.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the upper surface 122b of the first latch plate is aligned with the upper surface 124b of the second latch plate. In addition, the lower surface 122a of the first latch plate is aligned with the lower surface 124a of the second latch plate.

[0062] In one arrangement of the present disclosure, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 are common components. In other words, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 have the same size, shape, and thickness. In other arrangements, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 may be different. For example, the size or other features of the conduit holes provided on the latch plates 112 and 124 to allow the respective conduits 126 and 128 to couple to the latch plates may vary. Additionally or alternatively, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 125 may have different sizes, shapes, and / or thicknesses.

[0063] The pipe connectors 130, 132 each include a sealing member 134, 136, such as an O-ring seal. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , sealing members 134, 136 are arranged around each of the pipe connectors 130, 132. However, in other arrangements, sealing members may be provided in one or both of the pipe connectors 130, 132, for example, in arrangements where the pipe connectors receive portions of the first and / or second housing ports within the respective pipe connectors.

[0064] Each of the sealing components is positioned at a desired location along the respective pipe connectors 130, 132. In other words, the sealing components 134, 136 provided on the first and second pipe connectors are spaced apart from the associated latch plates 122, 124, and / or the first pipe end 126a, 128 by respective predetermined distances. For example, the sealing component 134 provided on the first pipe connector 130 is spaced apart from the first latch plate 122 by a first predetermined distance, and the sealing component 136 provided on the second pipe connector 132 is spaced apart from the second latch plate 124 by a second predetermined distance.

[0065] The first predetermined distance and the second predetermined distance are selected such that when the latch plate is coupled to the housing 110, the sealing members 134, 136 are aligned with the respective sealing surfaces 113, 115 of the corresponding housing ports 112, 114, and the connector 114 is received into the housing ports 112, 114. When the latch plates 122, 124 are coupled to the housing 110, the sealing members 134, 136 are configured to engage the sealing surfaces 113, 115 to create a seal between the first and second conduits 126, 128 and the respective housing ports 112, 114.

[0066] As described above, the first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 may not overlap. Therefore, the first predetermined distance and the second predetermined distance may be the same, for example, so that the sealing components 134 and 136 are received at the same depth within the respective housing ports 112 and 114. Furthermore, the pipe connectors 130 and 132 may be the same length. In some arrangements, the pipe connectors 130 and 132 may be common components or may be integrally formed in the same manner on the first pipe 126 and the second pipe 128, for example, such that they have the same shape and size.

[0067] Alternatively, the first predetermined distance and the second predetermined distance may be different. Additionally or alternatively, the lengths of the pipe connectors 130, 132 may be different.

[0068] Figure 6 A perspective view 600 of the latch plate assembly 162 is shown coupled to a turbocharger housing 602 housed in an engine. The turbocharger housing 602 may contain a turbine coupled to the exhaust passage of the engine and a compressor coupled to the intake manifold of the engine.

[0069] The first conduit 126 and the second conduit 128 can be coupled to the body 605 of the turbocharger housing 602. The first conduit 126 and the second conduit 128 can be held at a constant common distance via a bracket 626. In one example, engine coolant can enter the turbocharger housing via the first conduit 126 and after circulating through the turbocharger components, the coolant can exit the housing 602 via the second conduit 128.

[0070] The end of the first conduit 126 coupled to the body 605 may include a first conduit connector 130, while the end of the second conduit 128 coupled to the body 605 may include a second conduit connector 132. The first conduit connector 130 may be welded to the first opening of the first latch plate 122, while the second conduit connector 132 may be welded to the second opening of the second latch plate 124. Each of the first conduit connector 130 and the second conduit connector 132 may be inserted into a respective housing port within the body 605 to fluidly couple each of the first conduit 126 and the second conduit 128 to the turbocharger assembly 602.

[0071] A first set of teeth 123a can be formed in a first side of the first latch plate 122 (also referred to herein as the first interface surface 123), and a second set of teeth 125a can be formed in a second side of the second latch plate 124 (also referred to herein as the second interface surface 125). Coupling the first and second latch plates 122, 124 to the body 605 of the turbocharger 602 can include physically contacting the first side of the first latch plate 122 with the second side of the second latch plate 124, with the first and second sets of teeth 123a, 125a interconnected to form a planar interface surface. After the first and second sets of teeth 123a, 125a are interlocked, holes (not shown) can be formed in the planar interface surface. Fasteners 116 can be inserted into the holes to secure the latch plate assembly 162 to the body 605 of the turbocharger 602. In this way, the two conduits 126 and 128 can be secured to the turbocharger assembly 602 via the latch plate assembly 162.

[0072] Figure 7 The latch plate assembly 162 is shown positioned on the turbocharger housing 602 (eg, Figure 6 ) is a schematic perspective view 700 of a pipeline (as shown in FIG. Figure 6 600 in ) is not attached to the latch plate assembly 162.

[0073] The first latch plate 122 is shown with a first set of teeth 123a etched onto a first side that physically contacts a second side of the second latch plate 124. A second set of teeth 125a may be etched onto the second side of the second latch plate 124. The first set of teeth 123a defines a first half 140a of the perimeter of the aperture 140, and the second set of teeth 125a defines a second half 140b of the perimeter of the aperture 140. Upon coupling the first latch plate 122 to the second latch plate 124, the first half of the perimeter and the second half of the perimeter form a total aperture perimeter. Fasteners may be inserted through the aperture 140 to couple the latch plate assembly 162 to the body 605 of the turbocharger assembly 602. The first latch plate 122 and the second latch plate 124 are symmetrical (mirror images).

[0074] The first latch plate includes a first opening 112 to allow a first conduit to be coupled to the body 605 via the first latch plate 122. Similarly, the second latch plate includes a second opening 114 to allow a second conduit to be coupled to the body 605 via the second latch plate 124. During coupling, a first conduit connector for the first conduit and a second conduit connector for the second conduit can be inserted into the first opening 112 and the second opening 114, respectively. The first opening can overlap with a first housing port in the body 605 of the turbocharger assembly 602, while the second opening can overlap with a second housing port in the body 605 of the turbocharger assembly 602, thereby allowing the conduits (after coupling) to be fluidly coupled to the body 605.

[0075] In this manner, the first latch plate can have an end with a coplanar first set of teeth and the second latch plate can have an end with a coplanar second set of teeth so as to interlock with the first set of teeth; and holes can be formed at the interlock to receive fasteners coupling the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the component, each of the first latch plate and the second latch plate being coupled to the first pipe and the second pipe.

[0076] Figure 8 A schematic diagram 800 is shown of two latch plate assemblies coupling a pair of conduits to two separate engine components. Each of a first conduit 812 and a second conduit 814 can be coupled to each of a first latch plate assembly 801 and a second latch plate assembly 805.

[0077] The first latch plate assembly 801 can include a first latch plate 802 and a second latch plate 804. The first latch plate 802 can include a first set of teeth etched into a first edge of the first latch plate 802 and a first half of the perimeter of a hole formed in the first set of teeth, and wherein the second latch plate 804 can include a second set of teeth etched into a second edge of the second latch plate and a second half of the perimeter of the hole formed in the second set of teeth. After the first latch plate is coupled to the second latch plate, the first edge of the first latch plate is in physical contact with the second edge of the second latch plate. Coupling each of the first conduit 812 and the second conduit 814 to the first engine component 830 includes inserting a first connector of the first conduit into a first housing port in the engine component and inserting a first connector of the second conduit 814 into a second housing port in the engine component, each connector being retained within the first housing port and the second housing port, respectively, via one or more O-rings. Fasteners may be inserted through holes formed on the first latch plate assembly 801 to hold the first latch plate assembly 801 , the two conduits ( 812 , 814 ), and the first engine component 830 in place.

[0078] Similarly, the second latch plate assembly 805 can include a toothed third latch plate 806 interconnected to a toothed fourth latch plate 808 to form a planar coupling including a hole. Coupling each of the first conduit 812 and the second conduit 814 to the second engine component 830 includes inserting a second connector of the first conduit into a first housing port in the second engine component and inserting a second connector of the second conduit 814 into a second housing port in the engine component, each connector being retained within the first housing port and the second housing port, respectively, via one or more O-rings. Fasteners can be inserted through holes formed in the second latch plate assembly 805 to hold the second latch plate assembly 805, the two conduits 812, 814, and the second engine component 835 in place.

[0079] In this manner, each of the first latch plate assembly 801 and the second latch plate assembly 805 fluidly couples the first engine component 830 to the second engine component 835 via the two conduits 812 and 814 .

[0080] Now turn Figure 5 , an exemplary process 500 for assembling a housing assembly wherein a pair of ducts are coupled to an engine component via a latch plate assembly. The exemplary process 500 may be referred to as Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 The latch plate assembly described (such as Figure 3 The latch plate assembly 120 in the embodiment of the present invention is used to lock the first pipe (such as in the embodiment of the present invention) Figure 3 The first conduit 126 in the embodiment of the present invention) and the second conduit (such as in the embodiment of the present invention) Figure 3 Each of the first conduits 128 in the Figure 3 The housing 110 in FIG.

[0081] At 502, a first pipe may be coupled to a first latch plate via welding. A first pipe connector may be coupled to the end of the first pipe in contact with the first latch plate. In a second step 504, a second pipe may be coupled to a second latch plate via welding. A second pipe connector may be coupled to the end of the second pipe in contact with the second latch plate.

[0082] At 506, the first latch plate and the second latch plate are arranged such that holes for receiving fasteners are defined at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate and the first latch plate and the second latch plate do not overlap in the orientation of the fastener holes. The engaging portions of the first latch plate and the second latch plate can be arranged to interlock with each other to inhibit the first latch plate and the second latch plate from being disconnected from each other and from the housing when they are coupled to the housing. During interlocking of the first latch plate to the second latch plate, a first set of teeth formed on one side of the first latch plate can come into physical contact with a second set of teeth formed on a side of the second latch plate, and the two sets of teeth can interconnect to form a planar interface.

[0083] After interlocking, the first conduit and the second conduit can be arranged so that they are in fluid communication with respective housing ports formed in the housing of the engine component. In one example, the engine component can be a turbocharger and the two conduits can be coolant lines that carry engine coolant to the turbocharger and carry engine coolant from the turbocharger. At 508, the first conduit connector can be inserted into the first housing port formed in the body (housing) of the engine component. The first connector can be coupled to the inner surface of the first housing port via a first sealing component such as a first O-ring. After the first connector is inserted and sealed in the body of the engine component, the first conduit can be fluidically coupled to the first housing port.

[0084] At 510, a second conduit connector can be inserted into a second housing port formed in a body (housing) of the engine component. The second connector can be coupled to an inner surface of the second housing port via a second sealing member, such as a second O-ring. After the second connector is inserted and sealed in the body of the engine component, a second conduit can be fluidically coupled to the second housing port. Fluid can be provided to (or transferred from) the engine component via each of the first conduit and the second conduit.

[0085] At 508, the first latch plate and the second latch plate are coupled to the housing of the engine component using fasteners. The fasteners may be passed through holes formed on the interface of the latch plate assembly, and threads on the fasteners may be coupled to threads provided in the holes contained in the housing. The fasteners may include a shoulder portion and a threaded lower portion, and after the first latch plate and the second latch plate are coupled to the engine component, the lower portion is inserted into the holes and the shoulder portion is in physical contact with the upper surface of the planar interface. The threads on the fasteners may engage threads on the inner wall of the holes, thereby facilitating coupling of the latch plate assembly to the engine component.

[0086] In this way, by using a symmetrical latch plate assembly, two ducts can be coupled to an engine component without making any modifications to the geometry of the ducts. The design of the latch plate allows the plates to be assembled in a single configuration, thereby reducing the possibility of incorrect assembly.

[0087] An exemplary latch plate assembly for coupling a conduit to a housing includes: a first latch plate coupleable to a first conduit, and a second latch plate coupleable to a second conduit, the first latch plate and the second latch plate being coupleable to the housing, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are together configured to define an aperture at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate, wherein the aperture receives a fastener to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing, and wherein the aperture has a perimeter, the first latch plate defining a first portion of the aperture perimeter and the second latch plate defining a second portion of the aperture perimeter, the first portion and the second portion together defining the aperture perimeter, wherein each of the first latch plate and the second latch plate includes a plurality of teeth, wherein the teeth of one latch plate are configured to mesh with the teeth of the other latch plate in a staggered manner. In any of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, each of the first latch plate and the second latch plate defines half of the fastener aperture. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first latch plate and the second latch plate are configured together to define a fastener surface against which a shoulder of the fastener abuts to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, when the first conduit is coupled to the first latch plate, the first conduit is arranged in fluid communication with a first port in the housing, and when the second conduit is coupled to the second latch plate, the second conduit is arranged in fluid communication with a second port in the housing. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first conduit comprises a first conduit connector that is disposed between the first latch plate and an end of the first conduit when the first conduit is coupled to the first latch plate, and wherein the second conduit comprises a second conduit connector that is disposed between the second latch plate and an end of the second conduit when the second conduit is coupled to the second latch plate. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first pipe connector and the second pipe connector each include a sealing component configured to create a seal between the first port and the second port within the housing and the first pipe connector and the second pipe connector, respectively, and when the first pipe and the second pipe are coupled to the latch plate, the sealing components are spaced from the latch plate by respective predetermined distances.

[0088] Another exemplary latch plate assembly includes: a first latch plate having an end with a first coplanar set of teeth; a second latch plate having an end with a second coplanar set of teeth that interlocks with the first set of teeth; and holes formed at the interlock for receiving fasteners to couple the first and second latch plates to components, each of the first and second latch plates being coupled to first and second pipes. In any of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the coplanar set of teeth includes a first set of teeth formed in a first side of the first latch plate and a second set of teeth formed in a second side of the second latch plate. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first set of teeth defines a first half of a perimeter of the aperture and the second set of teeth defines a second half of the perimeter of the aperture, the first half of the perimeter and the second half of the perimeter forming a total perimeter of the aperture after the first latch plate is coupled to the second latch plate. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, coupling the first and second latch plates to the engine component includes: a first side of the first latch plate physically contacting a second side of the second latch plate, the first set of teeth and the second set of teeth interconnected to form a planar interface. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the fastener includes a shoulder portion and a lower portion, and after the first and second latch plates are coupled to the engine component, the lower portion is inserted into the hole and the shoulder portion maintains physical contact with an upper surface of the planar interface. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first conduit is welded to the first latch plate and the second conduit is welded to the second latch plate, and after the first and second latch plates are coupled to the engine component, the first conduit is fluidly coupled to a first housing port formed in the body of the engine component, and the second conduit is fluidly coupled to a second housing port formed in the body of the engine component. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first conduit includes a first conduit connector coupled to an end of the first conduit in contact with the first latch plate, and the second conduit includes a second conduit connector coupled to an end of the second conduit in contact with the second latch plate. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, after the first and second latch plates are coupled to the engine component, the first conduit connector is inserted into the first housing port, and the second connector is inserted into the second housing port, wherein the first connector is coupled to an inner surface of the first housing port via a first sealing component, and the second connector is coupled to an inner surface of the second housing port via a second sealing component. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, each of the first and second sealing components is an O-ring. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the engine component is a turbine of a turbocharger, the first conduit is a first coolant line that carries hot coolant from the engine to the turbine, and the second conduit is a second coolant line that carries cold coolant from the turbine to a radiator.

[0089] In other examples, a system includes: a first latch plate assembly comprising a first latch plate and a second latch plate, the first latch plate and the second latch plate forming a planar interface for coupling a first conduit and a second conduit to a first engine component, the planar interface comprising an interconnection of first and second coplanar teeth formed on respective ends of the first latch plate and the second latch plate, and a hole positioned through the interconnection of the first and second coplanar teeth for receiving a fastener for coupling the first latch plate assembly to the first engine component. In any of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first latch plate comprises a first set of teeth etched into a first edge of the first latch plate and a first half of a perimeter of the hole formed in the first set of teeth, and wherein the second latch plate comprises a second set of teeth etched into a second edge of the second latch plate and a second half of a perimeter of the hole formed in the second set of teeth, wherein upon coupling the first latch plate to the second latch plate, the first edge of the first latch plate physically contacts the second edge of the second latch plate. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, coupling each of the first conduit and the second conduit to the first engine component includes inserting a first connector of the first conduit into a first housing port in the engine component and inserting a second connector of the second conduit into a second housing port in the engine component, each of the first connector and the second connector being retained within the first housing port and the second housing port, respectively, via one or more O-rings. In any or all of the foregoing examples, the system further includes, additionally or optionally, coupling each of the first conduit and the second conduit to a second latch plate assembly, the second latch plate assembly fluidically coupling the first engine component to the second engine component via each of the first conduit, the second conduit, and the first latch plate assembly. In any or all of the foregoing examples, additionally or optionally, the first engine component is a radiator and the second engine component is a heater core, and wherein each of the first conduit and the second conduit is a coolant line.

[0090] It should be noted that the exemplary control and estimation routines included herein can be used in various engine and / or vehicle system configurations. The control methods and routines disclosed herein can be stored as executable instructions in a non-transitory memory and can be implemented by a control system including a controller in combination with various sensors, actuators, and other engine hardware. The specific routines described herein can represent one or more of any number of processing strategies, such as event-driven, interrupt-driven, multi-tasking, multi-threading, and the like. In this regard, the various actions, operations, and / or functions illustrated can be performed in the order illustrated, in parallel, or in some cases omitted. Similarly, the order of processing is not necessary to achieve the features and advantages of the exemplary embodiments described herein, but is provided for ease of illustration and description. Depending on the specific strategy used, one or more of the illustrated actions, operations, and / or functions can be repeatedly performed. Moreover, the described actions, operations, and / or functions can be graphically represented as code in a non-transitory memory of a computer-readable storage medium programmed into the control system, which is implemented by executing instructions in a system including various engine hardware components and an electronic controller.

[0091] It should be appreciated that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary in nature, and that these specific embodiments are not to be considered limiting, as many variations are possible. For example, the above technology can be applied to V-6, I-4, I-6, V-12, opposed 4-cylinder, and other engine types. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations and other features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein.

[0092] The appended claims specifically point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and non-obvious. These claims may refer to "an" element or a "first" element or the equivalent thereof. These claims should be understood to include incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed by amendment of the present claims or by presentation of new claims in this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, are deemed included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A latch plate assembly for coupling a pipe to a housing, the latch plate assembly comprising: a first latch plate coupleable to the first conduit; and a second latch plate coupleable to a second conduit, the first latch plate and the second latch plate coupleable to the housing, wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are together configured to define an aperture at an interface between the first latch plate and the second latch plate, wherein the aperture receives a fastener to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing and wherein the aperture has a perimeter, the first latch plate defining a first portion of the perimeter of the aperture and the second latch plate defining a second portion of the perimeter of the aperture, the first portion and the second portion together defining the perimeter of the aperture, The first latch plate and the second latch plate each include a plurality of teeth, wherein the plurality of teeth of one of the first latch plate and the second latch plate are configured to engage in a staggered manner by being received in gaps between the plurality of teeth of the other of the first latch plate and the second latch plate. 2 . The latch plate assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of the first latch plate and the second latch plate defines one half of the aperture, and wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate do not overlap.

3. The latch plate assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are together configured to define a fastener surface, the fastener shoulder abutting the fastener surface to couple the first latch plate and the second latch plate to the housing.

4. The latch plate assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first conduit is arranged to be in fluid communication with a first port in the housing when the first conduit is coupled to the first latch plate, and the second conduit is arranged to be in fluid communication with a second port in the housing when the second conduit is coupled to the second latch plate.

5. The latch plate assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first conduit includes a first conduit connector that is disposed between the first latch plate and an end portion of the first conduit when the first conduit is coupled to the first latch plate, and wherein the second conduit includes a second conduit connector that is disposed between the second latch plate and an end portion of the second conduit when the second conduit is coupled to the second latch plate.

6. The latch plate assembly of claim 4 , wherein the first pipe connector and the second pipe connector each include a sealing component configured to create a seal between the first port and the second port in the housing and the first pipe connector and the second pipe connector, respectively, and when the first pipe and the second pipe are coupled to the first latch plate and the second latch plate, the sealing component is spaced apart from the first latch plate and the second latch plate by respective predetermined distances.

7. A device comprising: a first latch plate having an end with a coplanar first set of teeth, the first set of teeth comprising at least two teeth; a second latch plate having an end with a coplanar second set of teeth including at least two teeth to interlock between gaps between adjacent teeth of the first set of teeth; and A hole is formed at the interlock to receive a fastener coupling the first and second latch plates to a component, each of the first and second latch plates being coupled to a first conduit and a second conduit.

8. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the first set of teeth defines a first half of a circumference of the aperture and the second set of teeth defines a second half of a circumference of the aperture, the first half of the circumference and the second half of the circumference forming a total circumference of the aperture after the first latch plate is coupled to the second latch plate.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the first latch plate and the second latch plate are coupled to the component comprising: a first side of the first latch plate in physical contact with a second side of the second latch plate, the first set of teeth and the second set of teeth interconnected to form a planar interface, wherein the interface is in a plane aligned with the longitudinal axis of the hole.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the fastener comprises a shoulder portion and a lower portion, and after the first latch plate and the second latch plate are coupled to the component, the lower portion is inserted into the hole and the shoulder portion maintains physical contact with the upper surface of the planar interface.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first conduit is welded to the first latch plate and the second conduit is welded to the second latch plate, and after the first latch plate and the second latch plate are coupled to the component, the first conduit is fluidly coupled to a first housing port formed in the body of the component and the second conduit is fluidly coupled to a second housing port formed in the body of the component.

12. The device of claim 7, wherein the first conduit includes a first conduit connector coupled to an end of the first conduit in contact with the first latch plate, and the second conduit includes a second conduit connector coupled to an end of the second conduit in contact with the second latch plate.

13. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein after the first latch plate and the second latch plate are coupled to the component, the first pipe connector is inserted into the first housing port and the second pipe connector is inserted into the second housing port, and wherein the first pipe connector is coupled to the inner surface of the first housing port via a first sealing component and the second pipe connector is coupled to the inner surface of the second housing port via a second sealing component.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is an O-ring.

15. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the component is a turbine of a turbocharger, the first conduit is a first coolant line carrying hot coolant from an engine to the turbine, and the second conduit is a second coolant line carrying cold coolant from the turbine to a radiator.

16. A system comprising: and a first latch plate assembly comprising a first latch plate and a second latch plate, the first latch plate and the second latch plate forming a planar interface for coupling a first conduit and a second conduit to a first engine component, the planar interface comprising an interconnection of first and second coplanar teeth, each formed on a respective end of the first latch plate and the second latch plate, and a hole positioned through the interconnection of the first and second coplanar teeth, the hole being used to receive a fastener coupling the first latch plate assembly to the first engine component, wherein the first latch plate comprises a first set of teeth etched in a first edge of the first latch plate and a first half of a perimeter of the hole formed in the first set of teeth, and wherein the second latch plate comprises a second set of teeth etched in a second edge of the second latch plate and a second half of a perimeter of the hole formed in the second set of teeth, the first edge of the first latch plate physically contacting the second edge of the second latch plate after the first latch plate is coupled to the second latch plate.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein coupling each of the first conduit and the second conduit to the first engine component comprises inserting a first connector of the first conduit into a first housing port in the engine component and inserting a second connector of the second conduit into a second housing port in the engine component, each of the first connector and the second connector being retained within the first housing port and the second housing port, respectively, via one or more O-rings.

18. The system of claim 16, further comprising: each of the first conduit and the second conduit is coupled to a second latch plate assembly, the second latch plate assembly fluidly coupling the first engine component to a second engine component via each of the first conduit, the second conduit, and the first latch plate assembly.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the first engine component is a radiator and the second engine component is a heater core, and wherein each of the first conduit and the second conduit is a coolant line.

Images