Fluid line connectors and assemblies with fixed detection

Abstract

Fluid line connectors and assemblies provide remote fixed detection capabilities and are therefore equipped for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and automated, robotic, and / or autonomous subsequent service technologies. The fluid line connector includes a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, one or more actuator members, and one or more switches. The body has a channel for fluid to flow through. The RFID tag can communicate with an RFID interrogator. When the actuator member is actuated, the actuator member changes the state of the switch. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 102,256 filed on August 13, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 544,057 filed on August 11, 2017. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to connector assemblies for joining fluid lines together and, more particularly, to a manner of detecting proper and complete engagement of connector assembly components. Background Art

[0004] Connector assemblies, especially those with quick-connect capabilities, are often used to connect fluid lines together in vehicle applications. One example is the coolant fluid lines in an electric vehicle automobile. For initial assembly and inspection, as well as subsequent service, visual measurements are sometimes employed in the design and construction of connector assemblies to verify that proper and complete engagement has been made between components of the connector assembly. Examples include secondary latches that are closable when fully engaged, and windows framed in one component of the connector assembly for viewing the engagement. These measures, and others like these, require physical interaction and observation by the assembler, inspector, or service personnel to ensure that proper and complete engagement has been made between components of the connector assembly. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one embodiment, a fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a passage. The RFID tag is carried by the body. The actuator member is located near the passage of the body. When another connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the actuator member acts. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. The switch is located near the actuator member. When the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the switch changes its state (i.e., from an open state to a closed state, or vice versa).

[0006] In another embodiment, a fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a holder, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a passage. An opening is located in the body and leads to the passage. The RFID tag is carried by the body. The holder can be moved in and out and through the opening. The actuator member is located in a position near the holder. When the holder moves through the opening and when the holder is in abutment with the actuator member, the actuator member is actuated. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. The switch is located in a position near the actuator member. When the actuator member is actuated, the switch is struck by the actuator member.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, the fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, a first actuator member, a first switch, a second actuator member, and a second switch. The body has a passage. The RFID tag is carried by the body. The retainer is carried by the body. When another connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the retainer can be received in a slot of the other connector. The first actuator member is located in a position near the passage of the body. During the insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector, the abutment of the other connector with the first actuator member actuates the first actuator member. The first switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. When the first actuator member is actuated, the first switch changes its state. The second actuator member is located in a position near the retainer. When the retainer moves in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the other connector into the fluid line connector, the abutment of the retainer with the second actuator member actuates the second actuator member. The second switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. When the second actuator member is actuated, the second switch changes its state.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, a fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a passage. The RFID tag is carried by the body. The retainer is carried by the body. The actuator member is located near the retainer. When the retainer moves in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of another connector into the fluid line connector, the actuator member is actuated. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. The switch is located near the actuator member. When the actuator member is actuated, the switch changes its state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a fluid line connector assembly;

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded view of a fluid line connector assembly;

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of a fluid line connector of a fluid line connector assembly;

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a fluid line connector assembly;

[0014] Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fluid line connector;

[0015] Figure 6It is possible to Figure 5 A side view of an embodiment of a connector for use with a fluid line connector;

[0016] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Another perspective view of a fluid line connector having a connector assembled thereto;

[0017] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Another perspective view of the fluid line connector;

[0018] Fig. 9 yes Figure 5 A side view of a fluid line connector;

[0019] Fig.10 It is possible to Figure 5 A side view of an embodiment of an actuator member and a switch for use with a fluid line connector; and

[0020] Fig.11 It is possible to Figure 5 A top view of one embodiment of a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag for use with a fluid line connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Several embodiments of fluid line connectors and assemblies are described in detail in this specification. The connectors and assemblies are designed and constructed to enable detection of proper and complete fixation between connectors without the need for auxiliary latches and windows of the past, which require a certain degree of physical interaction and observation by assemblers, inspectors or service personnel at the fixing position. In contrast, the connectors and assemblies of this specification are provided with such a device, wherein proper and complete fixation can be detected via a device positioned away from the direct fixing position of the connector, and the device does not have to be physically contacted with the fixing position for detection. In this way, the connectors and assemblies are equipped for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection and subsequent service technologies that are automated, robotic and / or autonomous, such as those found in advanced manufacturing facilities in automotive production. Therefore, the connectors and assemblies can prove to be useful in many applications, such as when instant power is not easily available and not easily accessible. This specification presents the connectors and assemblies in the context of automotive fluid lines, such as coolant fluid lines in electric vehicle automobiles, but the connectors and assemblies have broader application and are suitable for use in aircraft fluid lines, marine fluid lines, agricultural fluid lines, and other fluid lines.

[0022] As used herein, the phrase "completely fixed" and its grammatical variants are used to indicate a fixed state of establishing a fluid-tight connection via a fluid line connector. In addition, unless otherwise specified, the terms radial, axial, and circumferential and their grammatical variants indicate directions about the generally circular shape of the passageway of the fluid line connector.

[0023] In some cases, the fluid line connectors and assemblies may have various designs, configurations, and components in different embodiments, depending on the application in which they are employed. Figure 1-Figure 4 A first embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly 10 is presented. The fluid line connector and assembly 10 here includes a fluid line connector 12 and another separate and discrete connector 14. The fluid line connector 12 has a quick connect function for ready connection and disconnection action with the connector 14, and is used to connect automotive fluid lines together. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector 12 is a female connector and the connector 14 is a male connector (commonly referred to as a plug). The fluid line connector 12 receives insertion of the connector 14 at a first end 16 when installed and is connected to the fluid line at a second end 18. The fluid line connector 12 has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the accompanying drawings, but can have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments. Among many possibilities, the connector 14 can be an integrated and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component (such as a vehicle battery tray or a heat exchanger), or can be an integrated and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line. With particular reference to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The connector 14 has a first flange 20 projecting radially outwardly from its body, and has a second flange 22 axially spaced from the first flange 20 and also projecting radially outwardly from the connector body. The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 extend circumferentially around the connector 14. The connector 14 has an outer surface 24.

[0024] In this embodiment, the fluid line connector 12 includes a body 26, an O-ring 28, an insert 30, an RFID chip 32 (i.e., a radio frequency identification chip), a switch 34, and an actuator member 36; in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 12 may also have more, fewer, and / or different components. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the body 26 has a passage 38 defined in its structure for allowing fluid to flow through the fluid line connector 12. The body 26 also has a compartment 40 for receiving and placing the RFID chip 32. The compartment 40 is a space separate from the passage 38. A removable cover 42 can be provided to close the compartment 40 and enclose the RFID chip 32 therein. The body 26 also has a passage 44 for positioning and placing the actuator member 36 within the body 26 during assembly. When the actuator member 36 is removed from the body 26 (e.g., as Figure 3 ), the channel 38 and the compartment 40 are connected to each other through a passage 44, which leads to both the channel 38 and the compartment 40. The O-ring 28 is received in the channel 38, which may be as shown. Figure 4 The insert 30 is best shown in the figure, and there forms a seal between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. The insert 30 is also received in the channel 38 and is used to help retain the connector 14 when the connector 14 and the fluid line connector 12 are fixed together. In the example of the drawings, the insert 30 has a pair of tangs 46, and the tangs have hook ends 48, and the hook ends capture the first flange 20 when the connector 14 is inserted into the fluid line connector 12 to the appropriate stacking depth, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 The insert 30 includes a first ring structure 50 and a second ring structure 52 bridged together by the tang 46. The push-downs 54 on the opposite sides of the second ring structure 52 can be squeezed to release the captured first flange 20 for removing the connector 14 from the fluid line connector 12.

[0025] The RFID chip 32 helps detect the proper and complete fixation between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. The RFID chip 32 uses an RFID interrogator 56 to send and receive radio frequency (RF) signals. The RFID interrogator 56 sends an interrogation signal 58 to the RFID chip 32, which responds with an RF signal 60. In this way, RFID technology is used to perform proper and complete fixation detection. In a manufacturing facility, for example, the RFID interrogator 56 can be located in the middle of an assembly, inspection and / or installation production line, and an interrogation area can be established in which the RFID interrogator 56 seeks to communicate with the RFID chip 32 when the fluid line connector and the assembly 10 and larger applications are transported through the fixation area. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator 56 can establish an interrogation area spanning several meters from the RFID interrogator 56. In another setting, the RFID interrogator 56 can be a mobile device, such as a handheld device. The RF signal 60 can transmit various data and information to the RFID interrogator 56. In one embodiment, the transmitted information can be an indication of the fixation status between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. For example, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 show that they are fully fixed, the RF signal 60 can transmit the fully fixed information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 56. The RFID interrogator 56 can then process the transmitted information. The transmitted information can also include a serial number, an installation location, etc.

[0026] Special reference Figure 3 and Figure 4, the RFID chip 32 is carried by the body 26. The support between the RFID chip 32 and the body 26 can be achieved in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID chip 32 is located in the compartment 40 and is protected by the cover 42 when installed. In this position, depending on the specific application, the RFID chip 32 is shielded from exposure to the fluid flow traveling through the channel 38, and is shielded from external sources of contamination. The RFID chip 32 has an antenna 62 that exchanges (i.e., sends and receives) RF signals, and has an integrated circuit (IC) 64 that stores data and information (and other possible functions).

[0027] The switch 34 interacts with the RFID chip 32 in order to activate and enable the RFID chip 32 to transmit and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator 56, and in order to deactivate and disable the RFID chip 32 from transmitting and receiving RF signals. The interaction may also affect the functionality of the RFID chip 32 in other ways. In the embodiment presented by the accompanying drawings, the switch 34 is electrically coupled to the RFID chip 32 to enable and disable the antenna 62 from transmitting and receiving RF signals. Depending on the design and construction of the RFID chip interacting with the switch and the accompanying connector in some cases, the switch 34 may have a variety of designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments. For example, the switch 34 may take mechanical, electrical, and magnetic forms. In one embodiment, and with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the switch 34 is in the form of a button 66 mounted to the RFID chip 32. Figure 4 As best shown, the button 66 is located between the RFID chip 32 and the actuator member 36, and near the passage 44. When struck and physically pressed, the button 66 (due to its electrical coupling with the RFID chip 32) activates and enables the antenna 62 to send and receive RF signals. Depending on the embodiment, a single press and release of the button 66 can activate the RFID chip 32, or a sustained strike and press can activate the RFID chip 32 for the duration that the strike and press continue. Conversely, a single press and release of the button 66 can deactivate the RFID chip 32, or the absence of a sustained strike and press can deactivate the RFID chip 32 for the duration of the absence of the strike and press.

[0028] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the switch 34 may be prompted to activate and deactivate the RFID chip 32 in other ways. Figure 4, another embodiment performs prompting by using a non-contact switch instead of a contact-based switch. The reed switch 68 is carried by the body 26 of the fluid line connector 12, and the magnetic component 70 is carried by the connector 14. Here, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are fully secured, the proximity between the reed switch 68 and the magnetic component 70 causes activation of the RFID chip 32. Conversely, incomplete securing and the accompanying separation of the reed switch 68 and the magnetic component 70 relative to each other deactivates the RFID chip 32. In this embodiment, the actuator member 36 does not need to be provided.

[0029] The actuator member 36 receives abutment during and when fully secured between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14, thereby causing the impact of the switch 34. Depending on the design and construction of the switch 34 and the accompanying connector in some cases, the actuator member 36 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments. In the embodiment of the drawings, and now referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the actuator member 36 spans between the passage 38 and the switch 34 to provide interconnectivity between the connector 14 and the RFID chip 32. The actuator member 36 is carried within the body 26 of the fluid line connector 12 and is located and positioned in the passage 44. In its position, the actuator member 36 has one end at the passage 38 and another end at the switch 34. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, the actuator member 36 is in the form of a cam member 72. The cam member 72 is one-piece and has a U-shaped profile having a base 74 and a pair of forks 76 depending from the base 74. The base 74 has a first working surface 78 located at the switch 34 and maintained in contact with the switch 34. And the forks 76 each have a second working surface 80, which is located in the channel 38 for abutting against the connector 14 when the connector 14 is inserted into the fluid line connector 12. In order to easily abut against the connector 14 and cause the concomitant displacement of the cam member 72, the second working surface 80 can be inclined relative to the axis of the connector 14.

[0030] When the fluid line connector and assembly 10 are used in use, proper and complete fixation can be detected via RFID technology. When the connector 14 is inserted into the body 26 at the first end 16, the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are put together. The first flange 20 abuts against the cam member 72 and displaces the cam member 72 upward (relative to the orientation of the accompanying drawings) and toward the button 66. The first flange 20 abuts against the second working surface 80 of the cam member 72 face to face. The cam member 72 is pushed upward and impacts the button 66 via face-to-face contact between the first working surface 78 and the facing surface of the button 66. In this embodiment, the first flange 20 remains against the cam member 72, and therefore the cam member 72 remains impacted with the button 66 when fully fixed.

[0031] In another embodiment, the fluid line connector 12 includes more than a single RFID chip. Figure 3, in addition to the first RFID chip 32, a second RFID chip 33 is provided. And similar to the first RFID chip 32, the second RFID chip 33 helps detect the proper and complete fixation between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. In this embodiment, both the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33 send and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator 56. In one example, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 show complete fixation, the first RFID chip 32 can transmit the complete fixation information to the RFID interrogator 56. Conversely, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are not completely fixed together, the second RFID chip 33 can transmit the incomplete fixation information to the RFID interrogator 56. In addition, when completely fixed, the second RFID chip 33 does not transmit the incomplete fixation information to the RFID interrogator 56; and when not completely fixed together, the first RFID chip 32 does not transmit the complete fixation information to the RFID interrogator 56. As in the previous embodiment, the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33 can transmit additional information, such as a serial number, an installation location, etc. Whether the first RFID chip 32 transmits its completely fixed information or the second RFID chip 33 transmits its incompletely fixed information is partially managed by the switch 34. In this embodiment, the switch 34 interacts with both the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33 and is electrically coupled to both the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33. The interaction and transmission of information can be implemented in different ways. For example, when impacted, the switch 34 can activate and enable the first RFID chip 32 to transmit completely fixed information, and when not impacted, the switch 34 can activate and enable the second RFID chip 33 to transmit incompletely fixed information. The impact and absence of impact of the switch 34 can deactivate and disable the first RFID chip 32 or the second RFID chip 33.

[0032] Now refer to Figure 5-Figure 11 , presents yet another embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly 110. This embodiment is similar to Figure 1-Figure 4 The embodiments of the present invention have some similarities, and these similarities are Figure 5-Figure 11 The description of the embodiments may not be repeated. The fluid line connector and assembly 110 includes a fluid line connector 112 and another separate and discrete connector 114. The fluid line connector 112 has a quick connect function for ready connection and disconnection action with the connector 114, and is used to connect automotive fluid lines and other fluid lines in other applications together. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector 112 is a female connector, and the connector 114 is a male connector (commonly referred to as a plug). The fluid line connector 112 receives an insertion of the connector 114, such as Figure 7 The fluid line connector 112 has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but may have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments. In many possibilities, the connector 114 may be an integrated and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component, such as a vehicle battery tray or a heat exchanger, or may be an integrated and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line.

[0033] Special reference Figure 6 , the connector 114 has an extension 115 and a slot 117 located at the end of the connector 114 that is inserted into the fluid line connector 112. As described below, the extension 115 interacts with the actuator member of the fluid line connector 112 and can have various designs and configurations. The extension 115 axially spans the insertion end of the connector 114 and protrudes radially outward from the surrounding body of the connector. As described below, the slot 117 receives the insertion of a retainer of the fluid line connector 112. The slot 117 spans circumferentially around the connector 114. In addition, the connector 114 has a bevel 119. The bevel 119 presents an increased diameter in the connector 114. The connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112, wherein the bevel 119 is received before the extension 115 is received in the fluid line connector 112 and before the slot 117 is received in the fluid line connector (i.e., before the extension 115 is received in the fluid line connector 112). Figure 6 orientation (from right to left) is received in the fluid line connector 112.

[0034] exist Figure 5-Figure 11 In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid line connector 112 includes a body 126, a retainer 129, an RFID tag 132 (i.e., a radio frequency identification tag), one or two switches 134, 135, and one or two actuator members 136, 137; in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 112 may also have more, fewer, and / or different components. Figure 5 and Figure 7-Figure 9 The body 126 has a passage 138 defined in its structure for allowing fluid to flow through the fluid line connector 112. In addition, the body 126 has a compartment for receiving and placing the RFID tag 132. A removable cover 142 is provided for closing the compartment and enclosing the RFID tag 132 therein (the compartment and cover are only in contact with each other). Figure 5 and Figure 7 Depicted in Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The depiction may have a similar configuration for accommodating the RFID tag 132). In addition, although Figure 51, but an insert assembly 143 may be disposed and carried within the interior of the fluid line connector 112 and within the passage 138. Depending on its design and construction, the insert assembly 143 may facilitate mating, reception, and / or sealing between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114. The insert assembly 143 may include, for example, an O-ring 145 and a carrier 147, and may also include a bushing.

[0035] The body 126 has a configuration that cooperates with the retainer 129 to provide a quick connect function for the fluid line connector 112. Figure 5 and Figures 7 to 9 , first opening 149 and second opening 151 are defined on opposite sides of the body wall and extend across and into the passage 138. On the exterior of the wall, there are first recesses 153 and second recesses 155 for temporarily deploying the retainer 129 when the retainer 129 is moved to be received in the slot 117. A flange 157 protrudes radially outward of the wall of the body and partially surrounds a section of the retainer 129 to prevent unintentional removal of the retainer 129 when the retainer is received in the slot 117.

[0036] In addition, the body 126 has a structure intended to accommodate the assembly and installation of the actuator members 136, 137. The exact design and construction of this structure may vary and may depend on the design and construction of the actuator members and switches used in the fluid line connector 112. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, now turning to Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , a first socket 159 and a second socket 161 are located in the body 126. The first socket 159 receives and retains the first actuator member 136, and is in the form of a slotted structure in this embodiment. The first socket 159 is located at the entrance 163 of the passage 138 for positioning the first actuator member 136 there, and the first socket is defined in the body wall near the entrance 163. In order to fully receive the first actuator member 136, the axial depth of the first socket 159 can be approximately equal to the length of the first actuator member 136. Moreover, in a similar manner, the radial width of the first socket 159 can be approximately equal to the width of the first actuator member 136. The axial depth of the first socket 159 is generally aligned with the axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163. The figures depict an enlarged structure in the body wall to accommodate the first actuator member 136 and to provide the first socket 159, but in other embodiments, the receiving portion can be more continuous and integrally formed into the body 126 so that the enlargement can be minimized.

[0037] Now, special reference Fig. 9, the second socket 161 receives and retains the second actuator member 137 and is in the form of a slotted structure in this embodiment. The second socket 161 is located outside the channel 138 and on one side of the body wall for positioning the second actuator member 137 there. In order to fully receive the second actuator member 137, the radial depth of the second socket 161 can be approximately equal to the length of the second actuator member 137. Moreover, in a similar manner, the axial width of the second socket 161 can be approximately equal to the width of the second actuator member 137. The radial depth of the second socket 161 is roughly aligned with the radius of the channel 138 at the inlet 163. The accompanying drawings depict an enlarged structure protruding from the side of the body wall to accommodate the second actuator member 137 and to provide the second socket 161, but in other embodiments, the accommodation can be more coherent and integrated into the body 126 so that the enlarged structure can be minimized. Fig. 9 1 , the bottom wall 165 and a pair of side walls 167 depending from the bottom wall 165 together partially surround the second actuator member 137 and help prevent inadvertent contact by foreign components when the fluid line connector 112 is put into use.

[0038] The retainer 129 interacts with the body 126 to provide a quick connect feature of the fluid line connector 112 so that the connector 114 can be easily inserted and retained in the fluid line connector 112 and can be released and removed from the fluid line connector as needed or desired. The retainer 129 can vary in design and construction. With particular reference to Figure 5 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, the retainer 129 is a one-piece stainless steel wire spring that is biased inwardly. The retainer 129 has a first leg 169, a second leg 171, and a bridge 173 spanning between the legs. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 can be substantially similar in shape and size. Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 14 and 151. A first use position of the retainer 129 is presented in FIG. 14 . In the first use position, the retainer 129 is carried by the body 126, wherein the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 move through the first opening 149 and the second opening 151. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 are partially located within the channel 138. In the first use position, the connector 114 is not inserted into the fluid line connector 112. The second use position of the retainer 129 lacks a specific depiction in the figure. In the second use position, the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112, and the ramp 119 engages the first leg 169 and the second leg 171. The engagement causes the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 to spread away from each other (i.e., radially outward), and can cause the bridge 173 to move radially outward. In some cases, the end foot 174 ( Fig. 9 ) is seated in the first recess 153, and similarly, the terminal foot (not specifically shown) of the second leg 171 is seated in the second recess 155. As the insertion of the connector 114 continues, the retainer 129 is brought to a third use position in which the retainer 129 is received in the slot 117. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 ride on the ramp 119 and can snap back to their positions in the first use position, but are now received in the slot 117. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 move through the first opening 149 and the second opening 151, respectively. The reception of the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 in the slot 117 can secure the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 together. The movement of the retainer 129 between its first use position, the second use position, and the third use position causes the retainer 129 to move in a direction 179 (which is generally transverse to and orthogonal to the insertion direction 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112) so that the retainer 129 can move in a direction generally transverse to and orthogonal to the insertion direction 179 (which is generally transverse to and orthogonal to the insertion direction 179) of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112. Figure 5 ), in other words, the movement of the retainer is radially outward and radially inward, or up and down.

[0039] Now go to Fig.11 RFID tag 132 facilitates detection of proper and complete securement between fluid line connector 112 and connector 114. RFID tag 132 is coupled to RFID interrogator or reader 156 ( Figure 7 ) communications. The RFID interrogator 156 sends an interrogation signal 158 to the RFID tag 132, which in turn communicates with the RFID interrogator 156. In this way, RFID technology is used to perform appropriate and fully fixed detection. In a manufacturing facility, for example, the RFID interrogator 156 can be located in the middle of an assembly, inspection and / or installation production line, and an interrogation area can be established in which the RFID interrogator 156 seeks to communicate with the RFID tag 132 as the fluid line connectors and components 110 and larger applications are transported through the fixed area. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator 156 can establish an interrogation area that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator 156. In another arrangement, the RFID interrogator 156 can be a mobile device such as a handheld device.

[0040] In this embodiment, the RFID tag 132 is a passive RFID tag type, but it can also be another type, such as an active RFID tag. The communication received from the RFID tag 132 can transmit various data and information to the RFID interrogator 156. In one embodiment, the transmitted information can be an indication of the fixed state between the fluid pipeline connector 112 and the connector 114. For example, when the fluid pipeline connector 112 and the connector 114 appear to be fully fixed, the RFID tag 132 can transmit the information of complete fixation to the RFID interrogator 156 in the form of an ON signal. On the contrary, when the fluid pipeline connector 112 and the connector 114 lack complete fixation, the RFID tag 132 can transmit the information of incomplete fixation to the RFID interrogator 156 in the form of an OFF signal. The RFID interrogator 156 can then process the transmitted information. The transmitted information can also include part serial numbers, installation locations, etc. In embodiments where the fluid line connector 112 is equipped with two switches 134 , 135 and two actuator members 136 , 137 , the RFID tag 132 may communicate the state of each actuator member 136 , 137 based on the impact or non-impact of the switches 134 , 135 . For example, the RFID tag 132 can transmit one or more of the following states: i) both actuator components 136, 137 lack actuation, so that the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 are both in the open state, ii) the first actuator component 136 lacks actuation, so that the first switch 134 is in the open state, and the second actuator component 137 is actuated, so that the second switch 135 is in the closed state, iii) the first actuator component 136 is actuated, so that the first switch 134 is in the closed state, and the second actuator component 137 lacks actuation, so that the second switch 135 is in the open state, and / or iv) both the first actuator component 136 and the second actuator component 137 are actuated, so that both the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 are in the closed state.

[0041] The RFID tag 132 is carried by the body 126. The support between the RFID tag 132 and the body 126 can be achieved in a variety of ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag 132 is located within a compartment of the body and is protected by the cover 142 when installed. In this position, depending on the specific application, the RFID tag 132 is shielded from exposure to the fluid flow traveling through the channel 138 and is shielded from external sources of contamination. Fig.11As shown, the RFID tag 132 has an antenna 162 and an integrated circuit (IC) 164 that stores data and information (and other possible functions). The antenna 162 and IC 164 can be carried on a substrate of the RFID tag 132. When both are provided, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 can be electrically coupled to the RFID tag 132 in a series arrangement. In addition, as previously described with reference to Figure 3 As stated in Figure 5-Figure 11 In some embodiments, the fluid line connector 112 may include more than a single RFID tag.

[0042] exist Figure 5-Figure 11 In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the fluid line connector 112 may be provided with: i) only the first switch 134 and the first actuator member 136, ii) only the second switch 135 and the second actuator member 137, or iii) both the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 and both the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137. The third [iii)] alternative is depicted in the drawings, but a skilled person can easily envision the first [i)] and second [ii)] alternatives by removing the other from the fluid line connector 112 in the drawings.

[0043] Now go to Fig.10 , the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 are electrically coupled to the RFID tag 132 so as to transmit the state of the switches to the RFID tag 132 based on the impact or non-impact of the switches 134, 135 by the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137. The electrical coupling can be in the form of a wire 175 that spans from the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 to the RFID tag 132. The wiring can establish a series arrangement. In the example of the wire 175, the wire 175 can be routed through one or more grooves located in the body 126, or can be embedded in the wall of the body, among other possibilities. In some cases, depending on the design and construction of the RFID tag interacting with the switch and the accompanying actuator member, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 can take various forms in various embodiments. Relative to each other and in embodiments where both switches 134, 135 are present, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 can take different forms. In Fig.10 In the embodiment, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 are in the form of a button 166. When struck and physically pressed by a specific actuator member, the button 166 is in a closed state. And when not struck and physically pressed by a specific actuator member, the button 166 is in an open state.

[0044] The first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 receive abutment during and when fully secured between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114, and are thereby actuated and thereby strike the first switch 134 and the second switch 135, respectively, to close the switches. In some cases, depending on the design and construction of the specific switch and connector, the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 may have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments. Relative to each other and in embodiments where there are two actuator members 136, 137, the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 may take different forms.

[0045] In the embodiment of the drawings and now turning to Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Fig.10 , the first actuator member 136 is intended to facilitate detection of axial insertion of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112. The first actuator member 136 is located near the entrance 163 of the passage 138. Generally, the first actuator member 136 resembles a V-shape turned on its side. When assembled, the longitudinal extension 177 of the first actuator member 136 is arranged to be generally in line with the insertion direction 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112. The longitudinal extension 177 is generally aligned with the axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163. The first actuator member 136 has a base 181 and an attachment 183 depending from the base 181. The base 181 carries the first switch 134 and is inserted and received in the first socket 159 of the body 126. When the first actuator member 136 receives abutment from the connector 114, the attachment 183 can move relative to the base 181 on an arc path 185. It may be as Figure 5 As best shown, the accessory 183 is partially suspended within the channel 138 prior to insertion of the connector 114 so that the extension 115 of the connector can abut against the accessory 183 upon such insertion. When the accessory 183 is at rest and when the accessory lacks abutment against the extension 115, it remains in this extended and suspended position, which constitutes the unactuated state of the first actuator member 136 and the corresponding open state of the first switch 134. When abutted, the accessory 183 then moves toward the base 181 and strikes the first switch 134, which constitutes the actuated state of the first actuator member 136 and the corresponding closed state of the first switch 134.

[0046] At one side, the attachment 183 has an outer working surface 187 that remains generally facing the channel 138 and the connector 114. At its opposite side, the attachment 183 has an inner working surface 189 that remains generally facing the first switch 134. A protrusion 191 can extend from the inner working surface 189 for direct impact with the first switch 134. The attachment 183 has a proximal end 193 and has a distal end 195, about which the attachment 183 is bent relative to the base 181. The proximal end 193 serves as a hinge, and the distal end 195 constitutes the free end of the attachment 183. For the first actuator member 136, the axis 197 of the hinge is arranged generally orthogonal to the insertion direction 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, and is also generally orthogonal to the axis of the channel 138 at the inlet 163.

[0047] In this embodiment, the second actuator member 137 has a similar design and construction as the first actuator member 136. Fig. 9 , the second actuator member 137 is intended to facilitate the detection of the correct positioning of the retainer 129 and the concomitant reception of the legs 169, 171 in the slot 117. The second actuator member 137 is located at a position outside the passage 138 and at one side of the body wall; however, in other embodiments lacking depiction, the second actuator member can be located inside the body 126 and need not be outside. Due to its location, and unlike the first actuator member 136, the longitudinal extension 177 of the second actuator member 137 is arranged generally transverse to the insertion direction 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112. The longitudinal extension 177 is generally orthogonal to the axis of the passage 138 at the inlet 163. The base 181 of the second actuator member 137 carries the second switch 135 and is inserted and received in the second socket 161 of the body 126. The attachment 183 is positioned at the exterior of the body, and the distal end 195 of the attachment intersects the path of the end foot 174 descending and residing when the holder 129 is in its first use and third use positions. In this way, when the legs 169, 171 move in the slot 117, the end foot 174 can abut against the attachment 183 and thus can cause actuation of the second actuator member 137. Fig. 9174. The actuation of the second actuator member 137 via abutment from the terminal foot 174 is shown in FIG. When the accessory 183 is at rest and when the accessory lacks abutment with the terminal foot 174, it remains in its extended position, which constitutes the non-actuated state of the second actuator member 137 and the corresponding open state of the second switch 135. When the holder 129 is in its second use position, the accessory 183 lacks abutment with the terminal foot 174. When abutted by the terminal foot 174, the accessory 183 then moves towards the base 181 and strikes the second switch 135, which constitutes the actuated state of the second actuator member 137 and the corresponding closed state of the second switch 135. For the second actuator member 137, the axis 197 of the hinge is arranged to be substantially in line with the insertion direction 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, and is also substantially aligned with the axis of the passage 138 at the inlet 163.

[0048] The embodiment of the fluid line connector 112 employing two switches 134, 135 and two actuator members 136, 137 provides enhanced full fixation resolution and eliminates false negative detection readings. Figure 6 , the first bar diagram 200 represents the state of the first switch 134 at a certain axial insertion depth of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, and the second bar diagram 202 represents the state of the second switch 135 at the same axial insertion depth of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112. Figure 6, the first bar diagram 200 and the second bar diagram 202 are placed beside the connector 114 and parallel to the axis of the connector 114 to represent the corresponding axial sections of the connector 114 when the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112. In this embodiment, along the first axial insertion depth 204 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, the first switch 134 should be in its open state. Along the first axial insertion depth 206 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, the second switch 135 may be in its closed state. In addition, along the second axial insertion depth 208, the first switch 134 may be in its closed state. At the second axial insertion depth 208, as shown, the retainer 129 has now engaged with the ramp 119. Along the second axial insertion depth 210, the second switch 135 should be in its open state. Similarly, in the second axial insertion depth 210, the ramp 119 engages the retainer 129. Finally, along the third axial insertion depth 212, the first switch 134 should be in its closed state. And along the third axial insertion depth 214, the second switch 135 should also be in its closed state. At the third axial insertion depth 212, 214, the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 are received in the slot 117, and the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are completely fixed together. In addition, the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 are actuated and strike the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 at the third axial insertion depth 212, 214. In the insertion movement of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, in this embodiment, the first switch 134 enters its closed state from its open state, and the second switch 135 enters its open state from its closed state and then returns to its closed state. In a sense, the second switch 135 acts like a momentary switch. Furthermore, false negative detection readings are eliminated because when the first switch 134 initially enters its closed state (or at least can be in its closed state) at the second axial insertion depth 208, the second switch 135 is simultaneously in its open state at the second axial insertion depth 210. In other words, at least one of the first switch 134 or the second switch 135 remains in its open state until the third axial insertion depth 212, 214.

[0049] for Figure 5-Figure 11In an alternative embodiment, additional alternatives are possible. In one alternative, the impact from the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 changes the state of the corresponding first switch 134 and the second switch 135, for example, bringing the switch from an initial open state to a subsequent closed state via the impact, or conversely bringing the switch from an initial closed state to a subsequent open state via the impact. In another alternative, the first switch 134 itself can receive an abutment from the connector 114, wherein the first actuator member 136 indirectly acts on the abutment via the first switch 134 and is indirectly moved by the abutment.

[0050] It should be understood that the foregoing description is not a definition of the present invention, but a description of one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but is limited only by the following claims. In addition, the statements contained in the foregoing description relate to specific embodiments and should not be interpreted as limitations on the definition of the terms used in the scope of the present invention or the claims, unless the terms or phrases are clearly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art. All such other embodiments, changes and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0051] As used in this specification and claims, when used in conjunction with a list of one or more components or other items, the terms "for example," "for example," and "such as," and the verbs "include," "have," "comprise," and other verb forms thereof, are to be interpreted as open ended, meaning that the list is not to be considered to exclude other additional components or items. Other terms should be interpreted using their broadest reasonable meaning unless they are used in a context that requires a different interpretation.

Claims

1. A fluid pipeline connector, comprising: a body having a channel; an RFID tag carried by the body; a first actuator member located adjacent the passageway of the body, the first actuator member being activated when another connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and located proximate the first actuator member, the first switch changing its state when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; wherein the first actuator member has an outer working surface located in the passage of the body and the other connector abuts against the outer working surface to actuate the first actuator member when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, and wherein the first actuator member has a longitudinal extension arranged substantially in line with a direction of insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector; a retainer carried by the body; a second actuator member located adjacent the retainer, the second actuator member actuating when the retainer is moved in a direction transverse to a direction of insertion of the further connector into the fluid line connector; and A second switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag and is located proximate to the second actuator member, the second switch being struck by the second actuator member when the second actuator member is actuated.

2. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: Abutment from the other connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector actuates the first actuator member, and when actuated the first switch is struck by the first actuator member and the state of the first switch changes.

3. The fluid line connector according to claim 2, wherein: The first switch is brought to a closed state when the first actuator member is actuated and the first switch is struck.

4. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: A socket is in the body and located adjacent the passageway, and the first actuator member is received and retained in the socket.

5. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first actuator member lacks actuation when the other connector is not inserted into the fluid line connector, and the state of the first switch remains unchanged when the first actuator member lacks actuation.

6. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first actuator member has a base, and the base carries the first switch.

7. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first actuator member has a base and an appendage depending from the base, the appendage moving relative to the base when the first actuator member is in the process of being actuated.

8. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first actuator member has an appendage with an articulated proximal end and a freely terminating distal end, the appendage moving about the proximal end when the first actuator member is in the process of being actuated.

9. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first actuator member has an attachment with an articulated end having an axis about which the attachment moves when the first actuator member is in the process of being actuated, the axis being arranged substantially orthogonal to a direction of insertion of the further connector into the fluid line connector.

10. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first actuator member has an inner working surface generally facing the first switch, and the inner working surface is in face-to-face impact with the first switch when the first actuator member is activated when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector.

11. The fluid line connector according to claim 1, wherein: The first switch is a push button.

12. A fluid line connector assembly, comprising the fluid line connector according to claim 1, and comprising an RFID interrogator that communicates with the RFID tag of the fluid line connector, and further comprising the other connector, the other connector having an extension that is face-to-face abutted against the first actuator member to actuate the first actuator member.

13. A fluid line connector, comprising: a body having a passage, an opening located in the body and leading to the passage; an RFID tag carried by the body; a retainer movable through the opening of the body; an actuator member located adjacent the retainer, the actuator member actuating when the retainer moves through the opening and abuts against the retainer, the retainer having a pair of legs, one leg of the pair of legs abutting against the actuator member to actuate the actuator member; as well as a switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and located proximate the actuator member, the switch being struck by the actuator member when the actuator member is actuated; wherein the retainer remains in abutment with the actuator member and the actuator member remains actuated before another connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the retainer lacks abutment with the actuator member and the actuator member lacks actuation when the ramp of the other connector engages the retainer, and then the retainer abuts against the actuator member and the actuator member actuates when the retainer is received in the slot of the other connector.

14. The fluid line connector according to claim 13, wherein: A socket is located in the body and the actuator member is received and retained in the socket.

15. The fluid line connector according to claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has an outer working surface, and the retainer abuts against the outer working surface to actuate the actuator member when the retainer moves through the opening of the body.

16. The fluid line connector according to claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has a base, and the base carries the switch.

17. The fluid line connector of claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has a longitudinal extension arranged substantially transversely to a direction of insertion of a further connector into the fluid line connector.

18. The fluid line connector of claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has a base and an appendage depending from the base, the appendage moving relative to the base when the actuator member is in the process of being actuated.

19. The fluid line connector of claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has an appendage with an articulated proximal end and a freely terminating distal end about which the appendage moves when the actuator member is in the process of being actuated.

20. The fluid line connector of claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has an attachment with an articulated end having an axis about which the attachment moves when the actuator member is in the process of being actuated, the axis being arranged substantially in line with a direction of insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector.

21. The fluid line connector of claim 13, wherein: The actuator member has an inner working surface generally facing the switch, the inner working surface making a face-to-face impact with the switch when the actuator member is actuated.

22. The fluid line connector of claim 13, wherein: The switch is a push button.

23. The fluid line connector of claim 13, further comprising: a second actuator member located adjacent the passageway of the body, the second actuator member being actuated when another connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the abutment from the other connector actuating the second actuator member; as well as A second switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag and is located proximate to the second actuator member, the second switch being struck by the second actuator member when the second actuator member is actuated.

24. A fluid line connector assembly comprising the fluid line connector of claim 13 and comprising an RFID interrogator in communication with the RFID tag of the fluid line connector.

25. A fluid line connector, comprising: a body having a channel; an RFID tag carried by the body; a retainer carried by the body, the retainer being receivable in a slot of another connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first actuator member located adjacent the passageway of the body, the first actuator member being actuated by abutment from the other connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag, the first switch changing its state when the first actuator member is actuated; a second actuator member located adjacent the retainer, the second actuator member being actuated from abutment by the retainer when the retainer is moved in a direction transverse to a direction of insertion of the further connector into the fluid line connector; as well as A second switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag, the second switch changing its state when the second actuator member is actuated.

26. The fluid line connector of claim 25, wherein: The first actuator member strikes the first switch when it is actuated, and the second actuator member strikes the second switch when it is actuated.

27. The fluid line connector of claim 25, wherein: At least one of the first actuator member or the second actuator member has a base and an appendage depending from the base, the appendage moving relative to the base when the at least one first actuator member or the second actuator member is in the process of being actuated.

28. The fluid line connector of claim 25, wherein: The first actuator member has a first longitudinal extension and the second actuator member has a second longitudinal extension, the first longitudinal extension being arranged substantially transverse to the second longitudinal extension.

29. A fluid line connector assembly comprising the fluid line connector of claim 25 and comprising an RFID interrogator in communication with the RFID tag of the fluid line connector.

30. A fluid line connector, comprising: a body having a channel; an RFID tag carried by the body; a retainer carried by the body; an actuator member located adjacent the retainer, the actuator member actuating when the retainer is moved in a direction transverse to a direction of insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector; as well as A switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag and is located proximate to the actuator member, the switch changing its state when the actuator member is actuated.

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