Systems and methods for performing leak testing

Abstract

This invention relates to systems and methods for performing leak tests. A sealing assembly for sealing an electrical component having an opening is provided, wherein the sealing assembly includes a cover and a plug assembly adapted for coupling with the electrical component. The cover has a through-hole for injecting air during a leak test of the electrical component and an engagement element for securing the plug assembly to the cover. The plug assembly includes a single-wire seal for sealing the through-hole and a locking element reversibly engaging with the engagement element, such that when the plug assembly is inserted into the through-hole, the cover is adapted to hermetically seal the opening of the electrical component. A method for performing a leak test on an electrical component sealed by the sealing assembly is also described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of electrical connectors. In particular, this invention relates to systems and methods for performing leakage tests on electrical connectors. Background Technology

[0002] With the current level of technology, wire end leakage testing is typically performed to detect any air leakage, such as any air leakage along the length of the wire, thereby ensuring that the wire is airtight and preventing water and / or dust from entering.

[0003] Document DE3931340 discloses a method for pneumatic sheath testing of longitudinally non-waterproof polyethylene insulated cables, which allows for the on-site location and elimination of leaks using non-toxic test gases before newly laid cables in cable trenches are put into operation. Document DE3931340 also discloses a detachable connection element for sensitive cable surface materials and different cable outer diameters, which ensures reliable sealing during flushing in test gases while allowing for frequent and rapid attachment and disassembly of individual system components without the use of tools.

[0004] Document US2016336094 discloses a shielded wire including a shielding layer. An air leakage test is performed on the shielded wire by sealing one end of the wire and immersing it in a water tank, then pumping compressed air at 10 kPa from the other end. Specifically, 10 kPa of compressed air is first pumped for 30 seconds, and in the absence of leakage (i.e., no air bubbles are blown out from one end of the wire), the pumping pressure is increased by 10 kPa of compressed air. Then, as long as there is no leakage, compressed air with the pressure increased by 10 kPa is pumped sequentially, and the pressure of the compressed air is measured when air leakage occurs.

[0005] The main drawback of standard leak testing is that air is injected through the wires: in this way, leak testing is time-consuming and difficult to perform.

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for accelerating and facilitating leakage testing on electrical wires. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention is based on the idea of ​​providing a sealing cap for electrical components, which includes a through-hole for injecting air during a leak test and a plug assembly specifically designed to reversibly seal and close the through-hole once the leak test is complete. In this way, the leak test operation is accelerated and simplified.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a sealing assembly for sealing electrical components having openings is provided, the sealing assembly comprising:

[0009] - A cover suitable for connection with electrical components; and

[0010] -Plug assembly;

[0011] The cover has a through-hole for injecting air during leakage testing of the electrical component and an engagement element for securing the plug assembly to the cover. The plug assembly includes a single-wire seal for sealing the through-hole and a locking element that reversibly engages with the engagement element, such that when the plug assembly is inserted into the through-hole, the cover is adapted to airtightly seal the opening of the electrical component.

[0012] This configuration is advantageous because the sealing assembly not only ensures an airtight seal for electrical components to prevent water and dust ingress, but also simplifies, makes repeatable, and more effective the process of performing leak tests. Thus, leak tests can also be performed during the use of the electrical components without the need to disassemble them and inject air through the wires. For example, a proper seal between the cover and the electrical component at their mating interface can be checked by directly injecting air through a through-hole, rather than by injecting air through the wires inserted into the electrical component as performed in the prior art.

[0013] Furthermore, this configuration has the advantage that the sealing assembly according to the invention can be used for any electrical component with an opening that needs to be airtightly closed and sealed to prevent the ingress of water and dust. In this way, leakage testing is simplified and operation speed is increased.

[0014] Preferably, the sealing assembly is used for high-voltage applications, i.e., for electrical components operating at voltages greater than 400V. Preferably, the cover is made of a polyimide material that is flame-retardant and characterized by a high CTI value.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrical component includes an opening that is closed and sealed by a sealing assembly to prevent the ingress of water and dust. Preferably, the sealing assembly includes a cap that is placed over the opening of the electrical component and includes a through-hole that is in turn sealed and closed by a plug assembly. Preferably, the plug assembly reversibly seals and closes the cap.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, when a leak test is required, the plug assembly can be removed from the cover, and a tube can be inserted into the through-hole for air injection and leak testing. Preferably, the leak is tested at the interface between the cover and the electrical component, thereby testing the components involved in the sealing process. For example, the wire portion located at the interface with the cover can also be tested. Preferably, after the leak test, the plug assembly is returned to its original position, so that the electrical component is resealed by the sealing assembly and can be used for different applications.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the plug assembly includes: a pin on which a single-wire seal is inserted; and a retaining element formed at the base of the pin for fixing the position of the single-wire seal on the pin.

[0018] The advantage of this configuration is that the plug assembly provides a through-hole seal in a simple and reliable manner. Furthermore, the plug assembly includes components that are easy to assemble and disassemble, and these components are easily replaceable in case of damage or during maintenance operations. Additionally, the retaining element holds the single-wire seal in place on the pin, ensuring that the single-wire seal is not lost during plug assembly and disassembly.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the plug assembly includes a flat surface with a flange from which a pin protrudes. A single-wire seal is inserted into the pin such that the pin is completely covered by the single-wire seal. Preferably, a retaining element is formed at the base of the pin to hold the single-wire seal in place during operation.

[0020] Preferably, the single-line seal can be a rubber element having a cylindrical shape and multiple sealing surfaces to ensure a better seal. For example, the single-line seal can be a rubber element including a three-lip profile configuration, wherein this design produces a triple redundant seal.

[0021] In the preferred configuration, the presence of the retaining element fixes the position of the single-line seal on the pin, thus eliminating the need to press the seal onto the pin as is commonly done in the prior art. This allows the single-line seal to be easily removed and replaced during maintenance operations.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the retaining element is a protruding element configured to engage a mating recess formed on a single-line seal.

[0023] The advantage of this configuration is that the single-line seal does not need to be pressed onto the pin; instead, it is held in place by a protruding element that engages at least one recess formed between the three lip profiles. Furthermore, the retaining element holds the single-line seal in place on the pin, ensuring that it is not lost during the assembly and disassembly of the plug.

[0024] According to another embodiment, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the retaining element includes at least three protruding elements symmetrically formed around a pin.

[0025] The advantage of this configuration is that it ensures the stable maintenance of the single-line seal.

[0026] Preferably, the retaining elements are three protruding elements symmetrically placed around the pin, i.e., spaced apart at an angle of 120°. For example, there may also be four protruding elements, and they may be placed at 90° to each other.

[0027] According to another embodiment of the invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the through hole includes a through channel for inserting a single-wire seal mounted on a pin.

[0028] The advantage of this configuration is that the through-hole is reliably sealed by inserting a single-line seal mounted on the pin of the plug assembly.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the through-hole has a slightly smaller diameter than the diameter of the single-line seal inserted into the pin, such that the difference between the outer diameter of the seal and the diameter of the cavity causes radial compression of the seal and thus creates sealing pressure at the interface.

[0030] According to another embodiment, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the locking element has a flap, and wherein the through hole further includes a cavity surrounding a through channel configured to receive the flap of the locking element of a plug assembly.

[0031] The advantage of this configuration is that the plug assembly remains in place not only through the engagement between the locking element of the plug assembly and the engagement element of the cover, but also due to the geometry of the through-hole.

[0032] According to a preferred configuration, the through-hole comprises two concentric cylindrical portions: a central through-channel and a surrounding cavity. Preferably, the cavity is not a through-cavity.

[0033] Preferably, the plug assembly is configured such that the locking element includes an elongated wing configured to be received in the cavity to further secure the relative position between the plug assembly and the through-hole. Preferably, the elongated wing includes a locking tab adapted to engage the engaging element.

[0034] According to another embodiment of the invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the cover includes at least one first surface containing an opening and four side surfaces perpendicular to the first surface, thereby defining a housing for receiving a portion of an electrical component.

[0035] The advantage of this configuration is that the cover is designed to house and cover part of the electrical components and protect them from water and dust.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrical component has an opening that is closed by a sealing cap having four side surfaces and a first surface perpendicular to the side surfaces, defining an opening for receiving a portion of the electrical component. Preferably, a through-hole is located on the first surface of the cap. For example, the side surfaces may include inlets for receiving electrical wires.

[0037] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the electrical components include a junction box that includes a plurality of electrical terminals.

[0038] The advantage of this configuration is that the junction box can be covered and sealed by the sealing components to prevent water and dust from entering, and the process of leak testing can be simplified and accelerated because pressurized air can be injected directly through the through-hole of the cover.

[0039] Preferably, a junction box refers to any electrical component used to house multiple electrical terminals and / or wires and / or printed circuit boards. For example, a junction box may have an opening that can be covered by a sealing cover. This seals the interface between the cover and the junction box to prevent water and dust from entering. For example, a leak test can be performed to check whether the interface between the cover and the junction box is airtight.

[0040] According to another embodiment of the invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein the cover is provided with one or more inlets for inserting one or more wires, respectively.

[0041] The advantage of this configuration is that the cover of the sealing component can cover and seal the electrical components, while establishing an electrical connection between the electrical components and the wires inserted into the inlet of the sealing cover.

[0042] According to a preferred configuration, the wires in the insert cover can be connected to terminals contained in electrical components. For example, the wires can have different diameters and sizes. Preferably, the sealing assembly of the present invention is used in high-voltage applications.

[0043] According to another embodiment of the invention, a sealing assembly is provided, wherein at least one wire is connected to at least one electrical terminal of a junction box.

[0044] The advantage of this configuration is that the junction box containing the electrical terminals to be connected to the wires is sealed, preventing water and dust from entering. When it is necessary to check and test the airtightness of the interface between the cover and the junction box, a leak test can be easily and quickly performed by removing the plug assembly on the cover and injecting air directly into the through-hole, rather than through the wires connected to the cover as in the prior art.

[0045] Preferably, the wire is used in high-voltage applications. Preferably, the wire can be configured at 90° or 180° relative to the terminal.

[0046] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a sealing system is provided, the sealing system comprising:

[0047] -The sealing assembly as described above;

[0048] - A junction box including multiple electrical terminals.

[0049] The junction box has an opening, and the cover is adapted to close the opening and seal the junction box in an airtight manner.

[0050] The advantage of this configuration is that the junction box is sealed to prevent water and dust from entering, and when a leak test is required, it can be performed in a simple and quick manner because air can be directly injected into the through-hole of the cover of the sealing component.

[0051] For example, leakage testing can be performed during the lifespan of the junction box without requiring it to be disassembled and air injected into the wires passing through the junction box, as is done in the prior art.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, a sealing system is provided, the sealing system comprising:

[0053] -The sealing assembly as described above;

[0054] - Electrical components;

[0055] The electrical components have openings, and the cover is adapted to close the openings and seal the electrical components in an airtight manner.

[0056] According to another embodiment of the invention, a sealing system as described above is provided, wherein the cover further includes one or more inlets for airtight insertion of one or more wires, and the sealing system is configured such that when the sealing system is assembled and the wires are inserted into the inlets, the sealing system is airtightly sealed.

[0057] The advantage of this configuration is that the entire electrical system, including the junction box and wiring, is sealed to prevent water and dust from entering, and air leak tests can be performed quickly and easily when it is necessary to check whether the interface between the junction box and the cover is airtight.

[0058] According to a preferred embodiment, the cover includes a first surface and four side surfaces perpendicular to the first surface. Preferably, a plurality of wires are inserted into corresponding inlets located on one or more side surfaces of the cover. Preferably, the cables can be configured at 90° or 180° relative to the terminals of the junction box. It must be understood that when a wire is inserted into an inlet, the cover is sealed at that interface. Thus, when the cover, including the wires inserted into the inlets, is used to close the junction box, the entire system is hermetically sealed because the interfaces between the through-hole and the plug assembly, as well as the interfaces between the inlets and the wires, are sealed. Preferably, a leakage test is performed to test for potential leakage at the interface between the cover and the electrical components, thereby testing the components involved in the sealing process. Preferably, the cover is used to close the junction box once the wires have been included in the junction box.

[0059] According to another embodiment of the invention, a disengaging element is provided for disengaging a locking element from an engaging element and removing a plug assembly from the cover of the aforementioned sealing assembly, wherein the disengaging element includes a gripping portion and one or more protruding elements for inserting into the locking element to disengage them from the engaging element.

[0060] The advantage of this configuration is that the plug assembly can be easily removed from the cover when a leak test is required. The release element is preferably made of polyimide, and more preferably of the same material as the cover and plug assembly.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment, the disengagement element includes a gripping portion, which is a flat portion gripped by an operator. The protruding element includes, for example, two wedge-shaped elements that project from the gripping portion and are configured to insert into the locking element of the plug assembly to disengage them from the engaging element of the cover. Preferably, the protruding elements are slightly inclined relative to the dividing line between the gripping portion and the protruding elements. Preferably, the protruding elements are curved, thereby sliding along the engaging element of the cover to press the locking element and disengage it from the engaging element.

[0062] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for performing a leakage test on an electrical component having an opening is provided, the method comprising:

[0063] a) Install a cover on the electrical component that includes a through-hole for injecting air;

[0064] b) Detect air leaks in electrical components; and

[0065] c) Inject air directly through the through-hole.

[0066] The advantage of this configuration is that it allows for a simple and effective way to test electrical components for leaks, and it also improves the speed and applicability of leak testing. In fact, it is unnecessary to inject air through the wires connected to the electrical components; instead, air is injected directly through a through-hole in the cover used to seal the electrical components.

[0067] Preferably, the method is used to test electrical components for high-voltage applications. Preferably, according to the method, leakage testing can be performed throughout the lifespan of the electrical component, and it is not necessary to disassemble the electrical component and / or modify its structure to perform the leakage test, because the cover used to seal the electrical component already includes a sealable through-hole for injecting pressurized air into the cover.

[0068] Preferably, the leakage test is performed to test whether the interface between the cover and the electrical components is sealed, thereby testing the components involved in the sealing process. For example, the wiring portion located at the interface with the cover can also be tested.

[0069] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for performing a leakage test on an electrical component having an opening is provided, the method comprising:

[0070] a) Install the sealing assembly as described above onto the electrical components;

[0071] b) Remove the plug assembly;

[0072] c) Injecting air directly through a through-hole; and

[0073] d) Detect air leaks in electrical components.

[0074] The advantage of this configuration is that the aforementioned sealing assembly can be easily installed on any electrical component with an opening to be sealed, and it can be used for leak testing in a simple, intelligent, and repeatable manner. In fact, air can be injected directly through the through-hole in the cap, and leaks in electrical components can be easily detected.

[0075] Preferably, the method is used to test electrical components for high-voltage applications. Preferably, according to the method, leakage testing can be performed throughout the lifespan of the electrical component, and it is not necessary to disassemble the electrical component and / or modify its structure to perform the leakage test, because the cover used to seal the electrical component already includes a sealable through-hole for injecting pressurized air into the cover.

[0076] Preferably, the leakage test is performed to test whether the interface between the cover and the electrical components is sealed, thereby testing the components involved in the sealing process. For example, the wiring portion located at the interface with the cover can also be tested.

[0077] Preferably, the plug assembly can be easily removed using the aforementioned detachment element.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, pressurized air is injected through a tube that is directly inserted into a through-hole.

[0079] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for performing a leak test as described above is provided, wherein the method further includes the step of reversibly closing the through hole by means of a plug assembly.

[0080] The advantage of this configuration is that, after a leak test, the system can be tightly sealed to prevent water and dust. In fact, the single-line seal configuration ensures a perfect seal in the through-hole after the plug assembly is inserted. Therefore, if the leak test confirms that the electrical components are airtight, the entire system is airtight after the plug assembly is placed in the through-hole of the cover.

[0081] Preferably, the plug assembly is placed on the cover and secured there by locking and engaging elements. Preferably, the single-line seal of the plug assembly ensures that the through-hole is tightly sealed and closed, preventing water and dust from entering. According to the invention, the plug assembly is advantageous because it can be easily installed and removed from the cover of the sealing assembly. Furthermore, the single-line seal of the plug assembly has a simple structure and can be easily replaced in case of failure or damage during operation. Attached Figure Description

[0082] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals and / or symbols denote the same and / or similar and / or corresponding parts of the machine. In the drawings:

[0083] Figure 1 A schematic three-dimensional view of a sealing assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the sealing assembly including a sealing cap having a through hole and a corresponding plug assembly.

[0084] Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of a sealing assembly mounted on a junction box according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0085] Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of a plug assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0086] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a plug assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0087] Figure 5 A schematic three-dimensional top view of a plug assembly including a locking element according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0088] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a plug assembly in a corresponding hole of an insertion sealing cap according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0089] Figure 7 A three-dimensional view of a detachable element according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown schematically.

[0090] Figure 8 A schematic three-dimensional view of a sealing assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the sealing assembly including wires inserted into corresponding inlets.

[0091] Figure 9 A schematic three-dimensional view of a sealing assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the sealing assembly including wires inserted into corresponding inlets during a leak test. Detailed Implementation

[0092] The invention is described below with reference to specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described in the following detailed description and shown in the drawings, but rather the described embodiments simply illustrate several aspects of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims.

[0093] Further modifications and variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this specification should be considered to include all modifications and / or variations of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims.

[0094] For simplicity, identical or corresponding parts are represented by the same reference numerals in the figures.

[0095] Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates a sealing assembly 1000 that can be implemented according to the present invention, comprising a cover 200 for sealing electrical components and a plug assembly 100. Preferably, according to the present invention, the sealing assembly 1000 is used for sealing electrical components used in high-voltage applications. The advantage of the sealing assembly 1000 is that it is suitable for sealing electrical components while simplifying and accelerating leak testing on the electrical components.

[0096] Cover 200 is designed to seal any electrical component with an opening, where the opening must be sealed to prevent water and dust from entering. For example, the electrical component could be a junction box. Figure 1 The cover 200 also includes four inlets 210 for receiving wires that can be connected to terminals of electrical components enclosed by the sealing cover. The inlets 210 are formed on the side surface 202. It is evident that even... Figure 1 The diagram shows four inlets 210 for accommodating the respective wires, but according to the invention, any number of inlets can be implemented in the cover 200, such as one, two, three, five, six or more inlets. Furthermore, the inlets 210 can be formed on any surface 201, 202 of the cover 200.

[0097] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), cover 200 may also exclude any inlet for inserting wires and may be configured to simply cover and seal openings of electrical components.

[0098] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a sealing system 2000 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which includes a sealing assembly 1000 mounted on a junction box 600. The junction box 600 may represent any electrical component including electrical terminals, a printed circuit board, and / or electrical connections. The electrical connections of the junction box 600 may be connected to wires in the inlet 210 of the insertion cover 200.

[0099] Junction box 600 includes four side surfaces 602 and a first surface 601 perpendicular to the four side surfaces, defining a housing for receiving electrical terminals. The side of junction box 600 opposite to the first surface 601 is sealed by a cover 200, preventing the ingress of water and dust. Preferably, a lip of a second sealing material is placed around the inner periphery of junction box 600 defined by the side surfaces 602 to ensure an even more reliable seal between cover 200 and junction box 600. Leakage testing can be performed to test the proper seal at the interface between cover 200 and junction box 600. The configuration of cover 200 of sealing assembly 1000 has the advantages of improved usability and simplified leakage testing.

[0100] like Figure 1As shown, the cover 200 includes four side surfaces 202 and a first surface 201 perpendicular to the four side surfaces. Once installed over an opening of an electrical component or junction box 600, the side surfaces define a housing for receiving a portion of the electrical component or junction box 600. A through-hole 220 for injecting air during a leak test is integrated into the first surface 201 of the cover 200. Two engaging elements 230 are positioned around the through-hole 220 for engaging corresponding locking mechanisms of the plug assembly 100. The plug assembly 100 is configured to reversibly close the through-hole 220 of the cover 200. It must be understood that when the plug assembly 100 is inserted into the through-hole 220 of the cover 220, the cover 200 is adapted to hermetically seal the attached electrical component. On the other hand, when the plug assembly 100 is removed from the through-hole 220, air can pass through the cover 200 and reach the electrical component.

[0101] The plug assembly 100 according to the present invention is in Figure 3 The details are shown below. The plug assembly 100 includes a plug body 120 having a cavity 122 and a flange 121. A pin 123 is formed within the cavity 122 and protrudes from an opposite side relative to the flange 121. Two locking elements 124 are formed on the plug body 120. The end of each locking element 124a is configured to engage a corresponding engaging element 230 of the cover 200 and fix the relative position of the plug assembly 100 relative to the cover 200. When the plug assembly 100 is inserted into the through-hole 220 of the cover 200, a single-wire seal 110 is inserted onto the pin 123 to ensure a seal of the through-hole 220.

[0102] Figure 4 The diagram also shows a plug assembly 100, which includes a plug body 120 and a portion of a single-wire seal 110. The plug body 120 includes a flange 121 and a pin 123, the pin 123 being formed within a cavity 122, located on the flange 121, and projecting from a portion opposite to the flange portion 121. The single-wire seal 110 can be inserted into the pin 123.

[0103] The single-line seal 110 is characterized by an inner lip profile comprising a plurality of lips 112 separated by a plurality of recesses 111. Preferably, the inner lip profile comprises a three-lip configuration, such as... Figure 4 As shown. The three-lip configuration forms a triple redundant seal, thus ensuring a continuous sealing surface and an airtight seal. The single-line seal 110 is preferably made of silicone rubber; this rubber has high mechanical resistance and can operate over a wide operating temperature range.

[0104] When the plug assembly 100 is assembled, the single-wire seal 110 is inserted into the pin 123, which is inserted into the cavity 122 of the plug body 120. The difference between the outer diameter of the single-wire seal 110 and the diameter of the cavity 122 causes radial compression of the single-wire seal 110, and thus generates sealing pressure at the interface with the cavity 122. This interface generates additional closing pressure at the interface with the pin 123, increasing the tightness toward the pin 123.

[0105] A retaining feature 125 for securing the single-wire seal 110 within the cavity 122 is formed around the pin 123 at the base of the flange portion 121. The retaining feature 125 ensures that the single-wire seal 110 is not lost during the assembly and disassembly of the plug assembly 100 on the cover 200. The retaining feature includes a protruding element 125 that is bent relative to the flange 121 and configured to fit into a first recess 111 of the single-wire seal 110. Preferably, the protruding element 125 comprises three protruding elements symmetrically arranged around the pin 123 and spaced 120° apart from each other. Other configurations are also possible, wherein four or more protruding elements 125 are symmetrically placed around the pin 123; for example, a configuration in which four protruding elements 125 are spaced 90° apart from each other around the pin.

[0106] Figure 5 A schematic top view of the plug assembly 100 is shown, illustrating a portion of the plug assembly 100 oriented outwards toward the cover 200. Figure 5 In the image, two locking devices 124, including two locking tabs 124a, are positioned on two opposite sides of the flange portion 121. The tab portions 124a are configured to engage complementary engaging elements 230 of the cover 200 and secure the relative position of the plug assembly 100 with respect to the cover 200. For example, the engaging element 230 may be an engaging nose, and the locking tabs 124a may have slits for receiving the engaging nose 230 and for snap-fit ​​engagement of the two elements.

[0107] Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the plug assembly 100 in the through-hole 220 of the insertion cover 200 is shown. From Figure 6 As can be seen, the through-hole 220 of the cover 200 includes two concentric cylindrical portions, specifically a central through-channel 221 and a surrounding cavity 222. The sealing assembly 1000 is configured such that when the plug assembly 100 is mounted onto the cover 200, the pin 123 receiving the single-wire seal 110 is inserted into the through-channel 221. When the plug 120 is inserted into the through-hole 220, the inner lip profile of the single-wire seal 110 ensures a good seal in the through-channel 221. The single-wire seal 110 is oriented such that the first recess 111 engages with the retaining feature 125 of the plug body 120, thereby holding the single-wire seal 110 in place during the assembly and disassembly of the sealing assembly 1000.

[0108] When the plug assembly 100 is inserted into the through-hole 220 of the cover 200, the configuration of the single-wire seal 110 ensures a perfect seal through the passage 221. The retaining element 125 ensures that the single-wire seal 110 remains in place. In this configuration, if the single-wire seal 110 is damaged during operation, it can be easily replaced with a new single-wire seal 110 without replacing the entire plug assembly 100.

[0109] from Figure 6 As can be seen, the plug assembly 100 also includes a locking element 124 with a flap portion 124b configured to insert into the cavity 222 of the through hole 220. Thus, the position of the plug assembly 100 relative to the cover 200 is secured not only by the locking tab 124a engaging with the engagement element 230, but also by the locking element 124, because the flap portion 124b is stably inserted into the cavity 222.

[0110] According to the invention, the sealing assembly 1000 may further be provided with a disengagement element 400 for easy removal of the plug assembly 100 from the cover 200. The disengagement element 400 is schematically shown in... Figure 7 The disengaging element 400 includes a gripping portion 410 and two protruding elements 420 for insertion into the locking element 124 to disengage it from the engaging element 230. The gripping portion 410 is a flat portion that can be easily gripped and handled by an operator. The protruding elements 420 are two wedge-shaped elements that are slightly curved relative to the line defining the base of the flat element 410. The two protruding elements 420 are configured to insert into the tabs 124a of the locking element 124 to remove them from their engaged position relative to the engaging element 230. In other words, the protruding elements 420 pressing against the flap portion 124b cause the locking tabs 124a to slide away from the engaging nose 230, thereby disengaging the two elements.

[0111] Reference Figure 8 and 9 The operation of the sealing assembly 1000 according to the present invention is illustrated schematically.

[0112] exist Figure 8 The diagram schematically illustrates a sealing assembly 1000 according to the invention, which includes four inlets 210 for receiving respective wires 300, 301, 302, and 303. Figure 8The wires 300, 301, 302, and 303 have different sizes, and the inlet 210 has different diameters that match the diameters of the corresponding wires. The plug assembly 100 is initially inserted into the cover 200, and in this way, the through-hole 220 is hermetically sealed by the plug assembly 100, preventing air from passing through the first surface 201 of the cover 200. Furthermore, the inlet 210 is adapted to ensure that the interface between the wires 300, 301, 302, and 303 and the inlet 210 is hermetically sealed, preventing air from passing through the inlet 210. The sealing assembly 1000, including the wires 300, 301, 302, and 303, can be mounted on electrical components with openings, such as on a junction box 600. Figure 2 As shown. It must be understood that in the initial configuration, when the plug assembly 100 is inserted into the through hole 220, water or dust is prevented from entering the cover 200 and thus into the wires 300, 301, 302, 303 and / or the junction box 600, because the sealing system 2000 is airtight.

[0113] When an air leak test is necessary, the disengagement element 400 can be used to disengage the locking element 124 from the engagement element 230 and remove the plug assembly 100 from its position on the cover 200. When the plug assembly 100 is removed, the through-hole 220 opens and freely accommodates, for example, a tube 500 for inserting pressurized air into the through-hole 220 and into the cover 200. The tube 500 can be used, for example, to inject pressurized air for a leak test. Preferably, during a leak test, the gap between the tube 500 and the through-channel 221 can be sealed by a single-wire seal, such as a single-wire seal inserted into the plug assembly 100. When pressurized air is injected through the tube 500, the air passes through the through-hole 220 and fills the interior of the cover 200. In this way, if any leak occurs in the junction box 600, for example, if any leak occurs at the interface between the cover 200 and the junction box 600, it can be easily detected by appropriate means. For example, a leak test can be performed by immersing the component in a container filled with water and detecting the formation of potential air bubbles.

[0114] After the leak test has been performed, the tube 500 can be removed from the through-hole 220, and the plug assembly 100 can be reinserted into the through-hole to close the cover 200. The position of the plug assembly 100 is secured by a locking element 124 that engages with the engagement element 230 on the cover 200. A perfect seal of the system is ensured again by means of the single-line seal 110 that seals the through-channel 221 of the plug assembly 100. In this way, the leak test process is simplified and carried out in a faster and more efficient manner.

[0115] If the single-line seal 110 is damaged or lost during the insertion and removal of the plug assembly 100 from the cover 200, it can be easily replaced by inserting a new single-line seal 110 with the desired characteristics into the pin 123 of the plug assembly 100.

[0116] It must be understood that even in Figure 2 , 8 As shown in Figures 1 and 9, the sealing assembly 1000 can be used to seal and test the junction box 600 connected to the wires 300, 301, 302, 303. This solution can be applied to all next-generation charging inlet platforms and to every other system that requires leakage testing.

[0117] While the invention has been described with respect to preferred physical embodiments constructed according to the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications, variations, and improvements may be made to the invention in accordance with the foregoing teachings and within the scope of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention.

[0118] For example, even if only a 90° configuration of the connection between the terminals of the wires and electrical components is disclosed, a 180° configuration is clearly possible. Furthermore, it is evident that the positions of the through-holes and / or inlets on the surface of the cover can be varied according to specific needs; for example, through-holes can be formed on any side surface, and / or one or more inlets can be formed on any side surface or the first surface. Preferably, the inlets and through-holes are formed on different surfaces to simplify the insertion of the wire and plug assembly.

[0119] Furthermore, those areas believed to be familiar to those skilled in the art are not described herein, so as not to unnecessarily obscure the described invention. Therefore, it must be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific illustrative embodiments, but only to the scope of the appended claims.

[0120] For example, the leak testing process is not described in detail because it is assumed to be known to the technicians.

[0121] List of reference numerals

[0122] 100: Plug assembly

[0123] 110: Single-line seal (SWS)

[0124] 111: Recess of a single-line seal

[0125] 112: Lip of a single-line seal

[0126] 120: Plug body

[0127] 121: Flange

[0128] 122: Hollow Body

[0129] 123: Sales

[0130] 124: Locking element

[0131] 124a: Locking tab

[0132] 124b: Wing of the locking element

[0133] 200: Cover

[0134] 201: First Surface

[0135] 202: Side surface

[0136] 210: Cable entry

[0137] 220: Through hole for plug insertion

[0138] 230: Connecting element

[0139] 300, 301, 302, 303: Cables

[0140] 400: Detachable component

[0141] 500: pipe

[0142] 600: Junction Box

[0143] 601: The first surface of the junction box

[0144] 602: Side surface of junction box

[0145] 1000: Sealing assembly

[0146] 2000: Sealing System

Claims

1. A sealing assembly (1000) for sealing an electrical component having an opening, the sealing assembly (1000) comprising: - A cover (200) suitable for connection with the electrical components; as well as - Plug assembly (100); The cover (200) has a through-hole (220) for injecting air during a leakage test of the electrical component and a coupling element (230) for securing the plug assembly (100) to the cover (200). The through-hole (220) of the cover (200) comprises two concentric cylindrical portions to form a central through-channel (221) and a cavity (222) surrounding the through-channel (221). The plug assembly (100) includes a single-wire seal (110) for sealing the through hole (220) and a locking element (124) reversibly engaged with the engagement element (230). Thus, when the plug assembly (100) is inserted into the through hole (220), the cover (200) is adapted to seal the opening of the electrical component in an airtight manner; The plug assembly (100) includes a pin (123) on which the single-wire seal (110) is inserted, and the through hole (220) includes a through channel (221) for inserting the single-wire seal (110) mounted on the pin (123). The locking element (124) includes a corresponding flap (124b), and the cavity (222) is configured to receive the flap (124b) of the locking element (124) of the plug assembly (100).

2. The sealing assembly (1000) according to claim 1, wherein, The plug assembly (100) includes a retaining element (125) formed at the base of the pin (123) for securing the single-wire seal (110) in position on the pin (123).

3. The sealing assembly (1000) according to claim 2, wherein, The retaining element (125) is a protruding element configured to engage a mating recess (111) formed on the single-line seal (110).

4. The sealing assembly (1000) according to claim 3, wherein, The retaining element (125) includes at least three protruding elements symmetrically formed around the pin (123).

5. The sealing assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cover (200) includes at least one first surface (201) containing the through hole (220) and four side surfaces (202) perpendicular to the first surface (201), thereby defining a housing for receiving a portion of the electrical component.

6. The sealing assembly (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The electrical components include a junction box (600) which includes a plurality of electrical terminals.

7. The sealing assembly (1000) according to claim 6, wherein, The cover (200) is provided with one or more inlets for inserting one or more wires (300, 301, 302, 303) respectively.

8. The sealing assembly (1000) according to claim 7, wherein, The one or more wires (300, 301, 302, 303) are connected to at least one terminal of the junction box (600).

9. A sealing system (2000), comprising: - The sealing assembly (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims; - Junction box (600) including multiple electrical terminals The junction box (600) has an opening, and the cover (200) is adapted to close the opening and seal the junction box (600) in an airtight manner.

10. The sealing system (2000) according to claim 9, wherein, The cover (200) further includes a plurality of inlets (210) for hermetically inserting a plurality of wires (300, 301, 302, 303), and the sealing system (2000) is configured such that when the sealing system (2000) is assembled and the wires (300, 301, 302, 303) are inserted into the inlets (210), the sealing system (2000) is hermetically sealed.

11. A disengaging element (400) for disengaging the locking element (124) from the engaging element (230) and removing the plug assembly (100) from the cap (200) of the sealing assembly (1000) according to any one of claims 1-8. The disengaging element (400) includes a gripping portion (410) and two protruding elements (420) for inserting into the locking element (124) to disengage the locking element from the engaging element (230).

12. A method for performing a leakage test on an electrical component having an opening, the method comprising: a) Install the sealing assembly (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 onto the electrical component; b) Remove the plug assembly (100); c) Inject air directly through the through hole (220); as well as d) Detect air leaks in the electrical components.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising the following steps: e) The through hole (220) is reversibly closed by the plug assembly (100).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, Step b) is performed by the disengagement element (400) according to claim 11.

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