Transmitter for a quick connector

Abstract

A quick connector for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline includes a connector body, a retainer, and a validator. The connector body has a through-hole for receiving the convex member, which has a tubular shape sized to extend into the through-hole of the connector body and has a thickened portion. The retainer releasably secures the convex member within the connector body. The validator includes an antenna with contact points and moves within the connector body between a locked position and a non-locked position. The connector body includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip with a signal, the signal of which can be read via the antenna when the contact points of the antenna contact the RFID chip in the locked position of the validator.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This patent document claims priority to U.S. Application No. 16 / 817,085, filed March 12, 2020, entitled “Transmitter for Quick Connector,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a quick-connect coupling for making releasable connections in fluid line assemblies. Background Technology

[0004] The statements in this section are provided only as background information in relation to this disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0005] Quick connectors are well-known devices in the automotive and other industries. A quick connector coupling typically includes a conduit or tube that is received and sealed within the connector body of the quick connector. Quick connector couplings are used to provide a fluid connection between two components or conduits, thereby establishing a fluid line between the two components.

[0006] Using quick-connectors to secure convex and concave connector bodies is advantageous because it allows for the creation of sealed and secure fluid lines with minimal time and cost. Such quick-connect couplings are highly useful, for example, in fluid line systems of vehicle internal combustion engines. Furthermore, reliable and robust quick-connect couplings can also be used in brake line systems, fuel line systems, and other conduit systems.

[0007] To efficiently assemble sealed and robust fluid lines, various methods and mechanisms for quick connectors are constantly being developed and applied to a wide range of fluid line systems. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure relates to a quick connector for securing a convex member in a concave connector.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a quick connector coupling for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline includes a connector body, a retainer, and a validator. The connector body has a through-hole for receiving the convex member, which has a tubular shape sized to extend into the through-hole of the connector body and has a thickened portion. The retainer releasably secures the convex member within the connector body. The validator includes an antenna with contact points. The validator is coupled to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locked position and a non-locked position. The connector body also includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. When the antenna contact points contact the RFID chip in the connector body in the locked position of the validator, the signal of the RFID chip can be read through the antenna.

[0010] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the RFID chip is attached to a housing portion of the connector body. Specifically, the RFID chip is attached to a recess formed on the rearward edge of the connector body.

[0011] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the antenna is attached to a surface surrounding the authenticator so that signals from the RFID chip can be read in the authenticator's latched position. When the authenticator moves to the latched position, the antenna's contact point is positioned facing the RFID chip. The antenna with the contact point is attached to an internal surface of the authenticator.

[0012] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is formed by integrating an RFID chip and an antenna. This RFID tag can be an active RFID tag or a passive RFID tag.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a quick connector assembly includes a connector body, a retainer, and a validator. The connector body has a through-hole for receiving a protruding member, the protruding member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through-hole of the connector body and having a thickened portion. The retainer releasably secures the protruding member within the connector body. The validator includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. The connector body also includes an antenna with contact points. The validator is coupled to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locked position and a non-locked position. Furthermore, when the antenna contact points contact the validator's RFID chip in the locked position, the signal of the RFID chip can be read via the antenna.

[0014] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an antenna is formed around the connector body, and the contact point of the antenna is located in a recess formed on the rearward edge of the connector body.

[0015] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a quick connector for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline includes a connector body, a retainer, and a validator. The connector body has a through-hole for receiving a convex member, the convex member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through-hole of the connector body and having a thickened portion. The retainer releasably secures the convex member within the connector body. The validator includes a conductor. The connector body includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and an antenna coupled to the RFID chip. Furthermore, the validator is coupled to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locked position and a non-locked position. When the validator moves to the locked position, the antenna is electrically connected via a conductor attached to the validator, allowing the signal from the RFID chip to be read via the antenna.

[0016] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an antenna is attached around the outer surface of the connector body, and an RFID chip coupled to the antenna is attached to the outer surface of the connector body. Furthermore, the antenna includes a first conductor and a second conductor attached to the connector body, and the antenna is electrically connected to the RFID chip when the first and second conductors come into contact with a conductor on the rear surface of a retainer beam attached to the verifier. The conductor is formed of a conductive material.

[0017] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a quick connector assembly for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline includes a connector body, a retainer, and a validator. The connector body has a through-hole for receiving the convex member, which has a tubular shape sized to extend into the through-hole of the connector body and has a thickened portion. The retainer releasably secures the convex member within the connector body. The validator includes an antenna with contact points and a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. The validator is coupled to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locked position and a non-locked position. When the validator moves to the locked position, the RFID chip contacts the contact points of the antenna, and the signal from the RFID chip can be read through the antenna.

[0018] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a channel is formed inside the retainer beam of the verifier, and the channel is sized to receive a column member moving within the channel. An RFID chip is attached to the column member of the verifier, and when the verifier moves to the locking position, the RFID chip makes contact with the antenna contact point through the movement of the column member.

[0019] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the column member includes a first end and a second end, the first end being angled laterally along a longitudinal axis, and the second end having a bottom surface curved along the outer shape of the convex member. An RFID chip is attached to the top surface of the angled first end to contact an antenna contact point when the verifier moves to the locking position, the antenna being attached to a radially inward surface of the verifier.

[0020] According to another aspect of this disclosure, when the verifier is moved to the locked position, the second end of the column member contacts the convex member, causing the column member to move upward relative to the inside of the verifier's channel. When the verifier is in the non-locked position, the elastic device connected to the first end of the column member is configured to push the column member open, thereby separating the RFID chip from the antenna.

[0021] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the quick connector includes a blocking material between the contact points of the RFID chip and the antenna, and the blocking material is removed when the convex member is inserted into the connector body or the verifier is moved to the locking position.

[0022] Further details and benefits will become apparent from the following detailed description of the accompanying drawings. The drawings provided herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To better understand this disclosure, various forms of this disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 A perspective view of a quick connector coupling in an exemplary form according to this disclosure is shown;

[0025] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A side sectional view of the quick connector assembly;

[0026] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the concave connector body;

[0027] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Side view of the concave connector body;

[0028] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 A side sectional view of the concave connector body;

[0029] Figure 6 A perspective view of another exemplary form of a quick connector according to this disclosure is shown;

[0030] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the retainer;

[0031] Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A 3D diagram of the verifier;

[0032] Figure 9 It shows Figure 1 A detailed view of the top portion of the quick connector assembly in the non-pin-locked position of the verifier;

[0033] Figure 10 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a quick connector, including a retainer and a validator, in the non-pin-locked position of the validator;

[0034] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 Different perspective views of a quick connector, including a retainer and a validator, in the non-pin-locked position of the validator;

[0035] Figure 12 It shows Figure 10 A side sectional view of a quick connector including a retainer and a validator, in the non-pin-locked position of the validator;

[0036] Figure 13 A perspective view of another form of quick connector according to this disclosure is shown;

[0037] Figure 14 It shows Figure 13 A detailed view of the top portion of the quick connector assembly in the non-pin-locked position of the verifier;

[0038] Figure 15 A perspective view of another form of quick connector according to this disclosure is shown;

[0039] Figure 16(a) shows Figure 15 A detailed view of the quick connector coupling in the non-pin-locked position of the verifier, and Figure 16(b) shows... Figure 15 Detailed view of the quick connector coupling in the pin-lock position of the verifier;

[0040] Figure 17 A perspective sectional view of another form of quick connector according to this disclosure is shown;

[0041] Figure 18(a) shows Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the quick connector coupling in the non-pin-locked position of the verifier, and Figure 18(b) shows... Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the quick connector assembly in the pin-lock position of the verifier; and

[0042] Figures 19(a) and 19(b) show simplified schematic diagrams illustrating the integration of barrier material into the quick connector coupling of this disclosure.

[0043] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following description is exemplary in nature only and is in no way intended to limit the scope of this disclosure or its application or use. It should be understood that throughout the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote the same or corresponding parts and features.

[0045] The quick-connect coupling of this disclosure is shown for connection to a fluid line assembly. It is shown as a releasable connection between rigid pipes and other fluid-carrying components, particularly flexible hoses. However, quick-connect couplings have many other applications where fluid-sealed, yet releasable, connections are desired, such as the connection of rigid elements in fluid paths, whether pressurized or unpressurized, in motor vehicles.

[0046] See the attached diagram for more details. Figure 1 A quick connector coupling 10 for forming a detachable connection in a fluid pipeline is shown. The quick connector coupling 10 includes a connector body 12 and a convex member 14. Figure 2 In the middle, the quick connector 10 passes through the retainer 100

[0047] (e.g., master pin lock) and verifier 200 (e.g., secondary pin lock) are releasably secured together. A convex member 14 is formed at the end of a hollow tube that forms part of a fluid pipeline system. The connector body 12 and the convex member 14 are connectable to form a separable joint in the fluid pipeline.

[0048] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a convex member 14 is formed at the end of a rigid tube. The convex member 14 includes a radially enlarged upset 16 formed at a given distance from the open tube end or tip 18. The tube end or tip 18 may be rounded or tapered to allow the convex member 14 to be inserted into the connector body 12. A smooth, generally cylindrical sealing surface 20, defined by the outer surface of the tube, extends between the upset 16 and the tube end or tip 18. The tube extends beyond the upset 16 in a direction away from the tube end and defines a generally smooth cylindrical surface 22. The smooth cylindrical surface 22 has a diameter approximately the same as the diameter of the cylindrical sealing surface 20.

[0049] Figures 3 to 5The concave connector body 12 is shown in detail. (See attached image.) Figure 3 As shown, the connector body 12 is defined by a generally cylindrical, stepped radially inner surface of wall 24, and includes, as a single unit, a body 26 for receiving the convex member 14 and a cylindrical rod 28 extending from the body 26. The cylindrical rod 28, including the hose connection end 34, forms a 90-degree angle with the longitudinal axis X of the body 26, which is transverse to the longitudinal axis X of the body 26. However, according to other forms of this disclosure, the cylindrical rod 28 including the hose connection end 34 may be in a straight shape (180 degrees, see [reference]) along the longitudinal axis X. Figure 6 It extends from the body 26. Therefore, it must be understood that the exterior of the connector body 12 can take any desired shape without departing from this disclosure.

[0050] The connector body 12, comprising a main body 26 and a cylindrical rod 28, is typically formed of a plastic material (e.g., polyamide) as a single unit. Figure 5 As shown, the inner surface of wall 24 defines a through hole 30 centered on the longitudinal axis X. The through hole 30 of connector body 12 extends along the longitudinal axis X from the convex member receiving end 32 completely through connector body 12 to tube end receptacle 40, and further laterally to hose connection end 34. It should be noted that the term "rearward" is used herein to refer to a direction generally along the longitudinal axis X from the convex member receiving end 32 toward the tube end receptacle 40, and the term "forward" is the opposite direction along the longitudinal axis X to the rearward direction.

[0051] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the connector body 12 includes a housing portion 36, a sealing cavity 38, a tube end receiving portion 40, and a rod 28. The housing portion 36 is adjacent to the convex member receiving end 32. The housing portion 36 is defined by a forward edge 42 and a rearward edge 48. The forward edge 42 has a laterally flat forward surface 44, which defines an opening 46 for a through hole 30 at the convex member receiving end 32. The rearward edge 48 is spaced apart from the forward edge 42 by a gap or space 50 leading to the through hole 30. Both the forward edge 42 and the rearward edge 48 are connected by a top support member 52 and a bottom support member 56. Furthermore, a central body post 54 extends from the forward surface of the rearward edge 48. The downwardly curved surface of the bottom support member 56 is radially recessed inward from the radially outermost edge of the rearward edge 48, such that the bottom support member 56, as well as the forward edge 42 and the rearward edge 48, defines a pouch 58, which receives the transverse member 104 of the retainer 100.

[0052] like Figure 3As shown, for example, a top support member 52 is connected between a front edge 42 and a rear edge 48. The top portion of the rear edge 48 includes a recess 60 that receives the inward surface 204 of the verifier 200. The recess 60 of the rear edge 48 is disposed in the top support member 52. The connector body 12 includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip 84, which is included in a portion of an RFID tag 86 having an antenna 230. The chip 84 is located in the top portion of the connector body 12 and is typically attached to the connector body 12. For example, the chip 84 is printed or embedded in the rear edge 48 of the housing portion 36. However, depending on the operation of the quick connector coupling 10, the chip 84 can be attached to other locations on the connector body 12. According to one exemplary form of this disclosure, such as... Figure 3 As shown, chip 84 is attached to recess 60 toward the trailing edge 48 by being molded or printed onto recess 60 of housing portion 36 with connector body 12. Furthermore, chip 84 may be attached to other components, such as verifier 200 or retainer 100 of other forms described later according to this disclosure.

[0053] Typically, RFID tags 86 include active RFID tags or passive RFID tags. For example, in Figure 9 The RFID tag 86, including chip 84 and antenna 230, is an exemplary form of passive RFID tag according to this disclosure. Passive RFID tag 86 typically does not require a power source. This type of passive RFID tag is capable of responding to changes in distance, strain, pressure, and other environmental factors. Therefore, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the verifier 200 moves to the latch position, the passive RFID tag 86 is able to respond by bringing the chip 84 into contact with the antenna 230. However, according to other forms of this disclosure, the RFID tag 86 can be an active RFID tag. Active RFID tags include a power source and actively transmit signals without responding to other environmental factors. Therefore, active RFID tags can transmit signals themselves.

[0054] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the quick connector incorporates a blocking material 88 between the contact point 228 of the RFID chip 84 and the antenna 230 to shield any signal from the RFID chip 84 when the protruding member is not inserted in one manner as shown in FIG. 19(a). When the protruding member is inserted, the blocking material 88 is removed to expose the RFID chip (or sensing chip) 84, or when the contact point 228 of the antenna 230 is moved to the locking position, allowing the RFID chip 84 to communicate with the antenna 230 when the authenticator is in the locking position. In another manner, as shown in FIG. 19(b), the blocking material 88 shields the RFID tag 86, including the RFID chip 84 and the antenna 230, to prevent erroneous signals from the RFID chip from being read by the antenna in the server before the authenticator is moved to the locking position. Therefore, the blocking material 88 covering the RFID chip (or located between the contact points of the RFID chip and the antenna) or the RFID tag (including the RFID chip and the antenna) prevents erroneous signals when the convex member is not inserted into the connector body or the verifier is not fully engaged with the connector body, resulting in the verifier being in a non-locking position.

[0055] A sealing cavity 38 is formed axially rearward of the housing portion 36. Relative to the housing portion 36, the sealing cavity is defined by a reduced-diameter portion of the wall 24. The sealing cavity 38 is configured to accommodate a sealing element to form a fluid seal between the connector body 12 and the convex member 14. Figure 2 As shown, two O-rings 62 and 64, spaced apart by a rigid spacer 66, are radially positioned between the sealing cavity 38 and the convex member 14. The O-rings 62 and 64 are sized to fit snugly within the sealing cavity 38 and around the sealing surface 20 of the convex member 14. The O-rings 62 and 64 are secured within the sealing cavity 38 by a spacer sleeve 68. The spacer sleeve 68 includes a raised annular portion 70 on its outer periphery to provide enhanced fixation of the spacer sleeve 68 within the through-hole 30.

[0056] A tube end receptacle 40 is formed axially rearward of the sealing cavity 38. Relative to the sealing cavity 38, the tube end receptacle 40 is defined by a reduced-diameter portion of the wall 24, which extends axially rearward. The tube end receptacle 40 is dimensioned to receive and guide or direct the sealing surface 20 of the convex member 14. Furthermore, the rod 28 includes a fluid passage 72 defined by the smallest diameter portion of the wall 24. The fluid passage 72 extends laterally from the small diameter portion of the tube end receptacle 40 to the hose connection end 34. The rod 28 is configured to facilitate connection to another component in the fluid line. For example, the connector body 12 is formed to connect to a flexible hose (not shown). As previously mentioned, any other suitable connection arrangement can be used to complete the fluid line system.

[0057] Figure 7 A retainer 100 in a quick connector coupling 10 is shown. The retainer 100 is preferably formed of an elastic, flexible material such as plastic. The retainer 100 is detachably coupled to the connector body 12 and extends laterally through a bottom groove 74 in the housing portion 36. The retainer 100 includes a pair of elongated, generally parallel legs 102 extending from and connected at one end by a cross member 104. A release protrusion 106 is formed on the radially inner surface of the cross member 104 and extends axially rearward from the legs 102. The cross member 104 provides a spacing between the legs 102 approximately equal to the outer diameter of the cylindrical sealing surface 20 of the convex member 14. The axial length of the legs 102 is approximately equal to, but slightly less than, the axial length of the bottom groove 74 in the housing portion 36. The lateral width of the leg 102 is significantly smaller than the lateral width of the bottom groove 74 to allow for the outward expansion of the leg 102 to allow for the insertion and release of the convex member, as will be understood. Furthermore, the axial length of the transverse member 104 is significantly greater than the axial length of the leg 102.

[0058] Each leg 102 includes a pin 108 formed at an end remote from the cross member 104. When the retainer 100 is fully inserted into the connector body 12, the pin 108 locks the retainer 100 in a position relative to the connector body 12. The pin 108 engages with a locking shoulder 76 to releasably lock the retainer 100 in place, the locking shoulder 76 being defined by a top support member 52 of the connector body 12. Figure 7 As shown, each leg 102 also includes an inclined surface 110 having a guide region 112. The guide region 112 is formed in the front 114 of the leg 102. The guide region 112 is radially inward and axially rearward from the front 114 of each leg 102 and terminates approximately midway between the front 114 and the rear 116 of each leg 102.

[0059] The spacing between the guide edges of the guide area 112 is greatest near the front 114. This spacing is approximately equal to the outer diameter or outer surface of the thickened portion 16 formed on the convex member 14. The inner edge 118 of the guide area 112 is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the sealing surface 20 of the convex member 14. The portion of the guide area 112 near the pin lock 108 curves inward to match the annular profile of the thickened portion 16 of the convex member. This shape helps guide the convex member 14 through the connector body 12 and center the convex member 14.

[0060] Figure 8A verifier 200 is shown, comprising elements positioned within a top slot 78 and a side slot 80. The verifier 200 is detachably coupled to the connector body 12. The verifier 200 is also preferably molded from an elastic and flexible material such as plastic. The verifier 200 is lateral to the connector body 12 relative to the top support member 52, toward and away from the curved bottom support member 56, and thus toward and away from the retainer 100, sliding between a radially pinned position and a radially non-pinned position.

[0061] The verifier 200 includes a connecting member 202 having a radially inward surface 204, a retainer beam 206 extending from the inward surface 204, and a laterally spaced pair of curved, generally elastic fingers 208 extending downward from the connecting member 202 in the same direction as the retainer beam 206. When assembled to the connector body 12, the inward surface 204 is generally positioned on a top groove 78 of the connector body 12, wherein the retainer beam 206 is slidably disposed within the top groove 78. Each finger 208 is located in a side groove 80.

[0062] Each finger 208 includes a knuckle 210 with a laterally inwardly oriented hook 212. The hook 212 of the finger 208 engages with a locking ridge 82 defined by the top support member 52 to releasably secure the verifier 200 to the connector body 12 when the verifier 200 is in the non-pin-locked position. The retainer beam 206 of the verifier 200 includes a laterally enlarged portion 214 and a reduced portion 216. The lateral width of the enlarged portion 214 is slightly smaller than the lateral width of the enlarged portion of the top groove 78 formed on the top support member 52, while the lateral width of the reduced portion 216 is slightly smaller than the lateral width of the reduced portion of the top groove 78, allowing the verifier 200 to move between the pin-locked and non-pin-locked positions.

[0063] like Figure 8 As shown, each finger 208 of the verifier 200 also includes an extension beam 218 extending from the end of the phalanx 210 and terminating at a verification lug 220 formed at its free end or distal end. The rearward 222 of the extension beam 218 and the verification lug 220 is planar with the rear surface of the phalanx 210. However, the forward 224 of the extension beam 218 and the verification lug 220 is axially spaced rearward from the forward 224 of the phalanx 210, such that the axial thickness of the extension beam 218 and the verification lug 220 is less than the axial thickness of the phalanx 210. The difference between the thickness of the extension beam 218 and the verification lug 220 and the thickness of the phalanx 210 is such that it is at least as large as the thickness or axial length of the thickened portion 16 of the convex member 14.

[0064] Each verification lug 220 includes an introduction bevel surface 226 formed in the front face 224 of the verification lug 220. The introduction bevel surface 226 is radially inward and axially rearward inclined from the front face 224 of each verification lug 220. The shape and spacing of the introduction bevel surfaces 226 match the annular profile of the thickened portion 16 of the convex member 14 to allow the thickened portion 16 to contact the introduction bevel surface 226 when the verifier 200 is in its non-locked position and the convex member 14 is inserted into the connector body 12. Therefore, the spacing between the opposing verification lugs 220 is greater than the spacing required for the cylindrical sealing surface 20 to be inserted into the connector body 12 without contacting the verification lugs 220 when the verifier 200 is in the non-locked position. In the post-assembly configuration, the shape and size of the verification lugs 220 are designed to engage with the central body post 54 of the connector body 12, thereby allowing the verifier 200 to move from the non-locked position to the locked position.

[0065] Reference Figure 9 The verifier 200 also includes an antenna 230 having contact points 228 for contacting the chip 84 on the connector body 12. The antenna 230 is typically attached to the verifier 200. Figure 9 As shown, for example, antenna 230 is embedded in the radially inward surface 204 of verifier 200. Specifically, contact point 228 on antenna 230 is positioned to face and contact the chip 84 of connector body 12 when verifier 200 moves to the locking position. Figure 9 As shown, for example, contact point 228 is located in the middle region of the radially inward surface 204 of the verifier 200, and this contact point 228 faces the chip 84 attached to the recess 60 of the connector body 12. In addition, antenna 230 is attached (or embedded) around the inward surface 204 and includes contact point 228 for activating signals transmitted from chip 84.

[0066] Specifically, the positions of the contact point 228 and the antenna 230 can vary depending on the position of the chip 84 in the connector body and / or the structure of the connector body 12. Furthermore, the antenna 230 with the contact point 228 can be attached to other components, such as other forms of the connector body 12 or retainer 100 described later according to this disclosure.

[0067] According to other forms of this disclosure, the sensing chip can be used to communicate wirelessly with the antenna 230 without mutual contact (or touch). For example, when the sensing chip attached to the connector body or the verifier is brought near the antenna 230 (but not necessarily touched or touched), the signal from the RFID tag 86 can be read in the server because the reading range of the sensing chip is used to identify the closed (contact or touch) state. Therefore, the sensing chip in the RFID tag 86 communicates wirelessly with the antenna 230, which allows the signal from the RFID tag 86 to be read in the server when the verifier 200 moves to the latch position.

[0068] Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 A connector body 12 with a retainer 100 and a validator 200 mounted, in the non-pin-locked position of the validator 200, is shown. The legs 102 of the retainer 100 are inserted into a bottom groove 74 of a housing portion 36, and a cross member 104 is placed in a pocket-shaped portion 58 of the housing portion 36. When the legs 102 are inserted into the housing portion 36, they spring inward, causing a pin lock 108 to engage with a locking shoulder 76 of a top support member 52 to secure the retainer 100 to the connector body 12. Furthermore, when the retainer 100 is secured in the connector body 12, the guide area 112 of the legs 102 faces the receiving end 32 of the convex member.

[0069] The connection is completed by positioning the verifier 200 from the non-pin-locked position to the pin-locked position. In the non-pin-locked position, the verifier 200 is restricted from axial and radial movement relative to the connector body 12. The forward and rearward abutments of the fingers 210 with the forward edge 42 and the rearward edge 48 restrict the axial movement of the verifier 200 within the housing portion 36. The engagement of the hooks 212 of the fingers 208 with the locking ridge 82 of the top support member 52 restricts the radially inward or laterally upward movement of the verifier 200. Furthermore, the abutment of the verification lug 220 with the central body post 54 restricts the radially outward or laterally downward movement of the verifier 200. Therefore, in this state, the verifier 200 cannot be removed from the non-pin-locked position.

[0070] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the retainer 100 and the verifier 200 are properly attached to the connector body 12 in the non-locked position, and the protruding member 14 is then inserted into the connector body 12. The cylindrical sealing surface 20 of the protruding member 14 passes between the legs 102 and enters the sealing cavity 38. When the thickened portion 16 of the protruding member 14 contacts the legs 102, the guide region 112 of the legs 102 allows the thickened portion 16 to pass between the legs 102 with sufficient axial inward force. As the thickened portion 16 passes between the legs 102, it travels along the guide region 112 and causes the legs 102 to bend radially outward. Once the thickened portion 16 has passed the legs 102, the legs 102 spring back to their original position behind the thickened portion 16, to the locked position. The rearward 116 of the legs 102 abuts the thickened portion 16 to prevent the protruding member from being accidentally withdrawn from the connector body 12 subsequently. Furthermore, the convex member 14 is removed from the connector body 12 by pushing the transverse member 104 of the installed retainer 100 inward.

[0071] When the leg 102 of the retainer 100 is in the locked position, the thickened portion 16 causes the finger 208 of the verifier 200 to bend laterally outward in the side groove 80. Since the verification lug 220 is laterally positioned above the axis X of the through-hole 30 and also above the axis X of the convex member 14, when the convex member 14 is inserted rearward into the connector body 12, the upper hemisphere of the thickened portion 16 contacts the lead-in inclined surface 226 of the finger 208. The contact between the upper hemisphere of the thickened portion 16 and the finger 208 applies not only a rearward oriented force but also an upward oriented force to the finger 208, pushing the verifier 200 laterally upward or radially outward away from the axis X of the convex member 14, allowing the verification lug 220 to clear from the central body post 54, so that the finger 208 can unfold radially outward or laterally outward without interference.

[0072] As described above, the fingers 208 of the verifier 200 can only extend laterally outward after the thickened portion 16 of the convex member 14 has completely passed through the leg 102 of the retainer 100 (i.e., the convex member 14 is fully inserted into the connector body 12 and the leg 102 of the retainer 100 is in the locked position). When the convex member 14 is fully inserted into the connector body 12, the verifier 200 is positioned in a pin-lock position by applying a laterally downward or radially inward force (towards the connector body 12) to complete the quick connector coupling 10. In the pin-lock position, the rear surface of the retainer beam 206 is axially abutting the thickened portion 16 of the convex member 14. This axial abutment between the retainer beam 206 and the thickened portion 16 provides the verifier 200 with a verifier feature to retain the convex member 14 in the connector body 12 if the retainer 100 fails to lock the convex member 14. Additionally, the radially inner surface of the retainer beam 206 abuts against the outer surface of the convex member 14. This ability of the verifier 200 to move radially inward to the locking position provides the user with visual verification that the convex member 14 has been correctly inserted into the connector body 12.

[0073] In addition to providing visual verification as described above, the verifier 200 of this disclosure is also capable of sending a signal to a receiver to provide verification that the convex member 14 has been correctly inserted into the connector body 12. Because the shape of the recess 60 on the top portion of the connector body 12 is designed to match the inward surface 204 of the verifier 200, when the verifier 200 is moved to the locking position, the contact point 228 of the antenna 230 in the verifier 200 abuts against the chip 84 of the connector body 12. This abutment of the verifier 200 against the connector body 12, by connecting the chip 84 to the contact point 228 of the antenna 230, enables a signal from the RFID tag 86. A receiver (not shown) is positioned near where the verifier 200 is inserted into the connector body 12. The receiver receives an enable signal from the RFID tag 86 and sends another signal to a control unit (not shown) to provide notification that the quick connector coupling 10 has been correctly connected. Furthermore, the RFID tag 86 includes a built-in impedance matching feature. By utilizing the built-in impedance matching feature of chip 84, the signal from RFID tag 86 is maximized, and the signal can be effectively read in the server.

[0074] In the non-locked position of the verifier 200, because the contact point 228 of the antenna 230 does not contact (or touch) the chip 84 of the connector body 12 as described above, the signal from the RFID tag 86 is not activated. Therefore, the receiver does not receive a signal from the RFID tag 86, and the control unit does not receive another signal to confirm that the connector 10 is correctly connected.

[0075] Figure 13 and Figure 14 The diagram illustrates a second embodiment of a quick connector connector 300 according to this disclosure. The quick connector connector 300 of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the quick connector connector 10 described above, except for the positions of the chip 84 and the antenna 230 with contact points 228. For example, in the second embodiment, the chip 84 is attached to the verifier 200, while the antenna 230 with contact points 228 is attached (or embedded) to the connector body 12.

[0076] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, chip 84 is attached to the radially inward surface 204 of verifier 200 via a molding or printing process as described above. Antenna 230, having contact point 228, is attached to connector body 12. Specifically, contact point 228 of antenna 230 is located in a recess 60 on the trailing edge 48, such that when verifier 200 moves to its locking position, contact point 228 of antenna 230 is abutted against chip 84. Furthermore, antenna 230 with contact point 228 is attached (or embedded) around the outer edge of the trailing edge 48 of connector body 12. Therefore, when chip 84 of verifier 200 contacts (or touches) contact point 228 of antenna 230 attached to connector body 12 in the locking position of verifier 200, a signal in RFID tag 86 is activated, causing receiver to receive a signal from RFID tag 86 and send another signal to control unit to provide notification that quick connector coupling 300 has been correctly connected.

[0077] Figure 15 Figures 16(a) and 16(b) illustrate a third embodiment of a quick connector coupling 400 according to this disclosure. The quick connector coupling 400 of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the quick connector coupling 300 described above, except for the arrangement of the RFID tag 86, which includes a chip 84 and an antenna 230. Figure 15As shown, chip 84 and antenna 230 are attached to the outer surface of a sealed cavity 38 in connector body 12. Antenna 230 is disposed around the outer surface of sealed cavity 38, while chip 84 is directly attached to antenna 230 and disposed on the top surface of sealed cavity 38. Furthermore, antenna 230 includes a first wire 402 and a second wire 404 attached to chip 84, and the first wire 402 and second wire 404 are attached to connector body 12. However, in the third embodiment of this disclosure, when verifier 200 is in the non-locked position, even if chip 84 is attached to antenna 230, antenna 230 cannot transmit signals from RFID tag 86 because antenna 230 is electrically disconnected. Therefore, signals from RFID tag 86 cannot be read by a remote server, preventing the control unit from recognizing verifier 200 as being in the non-locked position.

[0078] As shown in Figure 16(a), conductor 406 is attached to verifier 200. For example, conductor 406 is formed of a conductive material such as a copper strip for electrically connecting the first wire 402 and the second wire 404 in antenna 230. Conductor 406 is attached to an upper region on the rear surface 408 of retainer beam 206 for electrically connecting the two wires 402 and 404. When verifier 200 moves to the pin-locked position after convex member 14 is inserted into connector body 12 and locked by retainer 100, antenna 230 is electrically connected to chip 84 because the two wires 402 and 404 are electrically connected through conductor 406, and antenna 230 is able to transmit signals. According to other forms of this disclosure, conductor 406 in verifier 200 may be located in other regions depending on the position of the first wire 402 and the second wire 404 attached to connector body 12.

[0079] As shown in Figure 16(b), when the verifier 200 moves to the lock position, the antenna 230 is able to transmit a signal from the RFID tag 86 to a remote server. Therefore, the receiver (not shown) receives the signal from the RFID tag 86 and sends another signal to the control unit (not shown) to provide notification that the verifier 200 is in the lock position and the quick connector 400 has been correctly connected.

[0080] Figure 17 Figures 18(a) and 18(b) illustrate a fourth embodiment of a quick connector coupling 500 according to this disclosure. The quick connector coupling 500 of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the quick connector coupling 10 described above, except for the arrangement of the chip 84 in the RFID tag 86. Figure 17As shown, chip 84 is also arranged in verifier 502. Verifier 502 also includes a pillar member 504 having an elastic device 506 such as a spring. The retainer beam 206 of verifier 502 has a channel 508 along its length for placing the pillar member 504 with the elastic device 506. When verifier 502 moves to the locking position, the pillar member 504 moves within the channel 508 of retainer beam 206.

[0081] exist Figure 17 In the design, the pillar member 504 includes a first end 510 and a second end 512. The first end 510 is laterally angled and extends rearward along the longitudinal axis X. The chip 84 is attached to the top surface 514 of the extending first end 510, and an elastic device 506 is placed and mounted between the inner surface of the channel 508 and the top surface 514 of the first end 510 for returning the pillar member 504 to its original position when the verifier 502 is in the non-locked position. The second end 512 of the pillar member 504 includes a bottom surface 516 curved along the outer surface shape of the convex member 14 for abutting against the smooth cylindrical surface 22 when the verifier 200 is moved to the locked position.

[0082] Figure 18(a) shows the unlocked position of the verifier 502, and Figure 18(b) shows the locked position of the verifier 502. As described above, the antenna 230 is attached radially inward to the surface 204 (see...). Figure 9 As shown in Figures 18(a) and 18(b), when the verifier 502 moves from the non-locked position to the locked position, the chip 84 attached to the top surface 514 contacts the contact point 228 of the antenna 230. After the inserted convex member 14 is locked by the retainer 100, when the verifier 502 moves from the non-locked position to the locked position, the pillar member 504 is pushed and moved upward due to the smooth cylindrical surface 22 of the convex member 14, causing the chip 84 attached to the top surface 514 of the pillar member 504 to abut (or touch) the contact point 228 of the antenna 230. Due to the contact between the chip 84 and the antenna 230 in the locked position of the verifier 502, the signal from the RFID tag 86 can be read in the server.

[0083] As described above, the RFID tag 86 system, including the RFID chip 84 and antenna 230, for wireless communication verification signals is suitable for any type of connector connection system (such as the Easy Loc connector, which combines a retainer and a verifier as a single element). For example, the RFID chip 84 and antenna 230 are attached to components of the connector connection system, and when the connection between the connector body and the tube is secured and verified, the RFID tag 86 system transmits a verification signal from the RFID chip 84 to a server via the antenna 230.

[0084] The foregoing description of various forms of the invention is for illustrative and descriptive purposes. This description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications or variations are possible in accordance with the foregoing teachings. The forms discussed were chosen and described in order to best illustrate the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various forms and with various modifications to suit the particular intended use. All such modifications and variations, when interpreted according to their fair, legal, and just scope, are within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A quick connector coupling for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline, the quick connector coupling comprising: A connector body having a through hole for receiving the convex member, the convex member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through hole of the connector body and having a thickened portion; A retainer that releasably secures the convex member within the connector body; as well as A verifier, which is connected to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locking position and a non-locking position; The connector body includes an RFID chip attached to the housing portion of the connector body, and the verifier includes an antenna with contact points. Specifically, when the contact point of the antenna contacts the RFID chip at the pin lock position of the verifier, the signal of the RFID chip can be read through the antenna.

2. The quick connector coupling according to claim 1, wherein, The RFID chip is attached to a recess formed on the rearward edge of the connector body.

3. The quick connector coupling according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna is attached to a surface surrounding the verifier so that the signal from the RFID chip can be read in the pin position of the verifier.

4. The quick connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein, When the verifier moves to the lock position, the contact point of the antenna is positioned facing the RFID chip.

5. The quick connector coupling according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna having the contact point is attached to the radially inward surface of the verifier.

6. The quick connector coupling according to claim 1, wherein, The RFID tag includes the RFID chip and the antenna.

7. The quick connector coupling according to claim 6, wherein, The RFID tag is either an active RFID tag or a passive RFID tag.

8. A quick connector coupling for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline, the quick connector coupling comprising: A connector body having a through hole for receiving the convex member, the convex member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through hole of the connector body and having a thickened portion; A retainer that releasably secures the convex member within the connector body; as well as A verifier, which is connected to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locking position and a non-locking position; The connector body includes an antenna with contact points, and the verifier includes an RFID chip; and Specifically, when the contact point of the antenna contacts the RFID chip at the pin lock position of the verifier, the signal of the RFID chip can be read through the antenna.

9. The quick connector coupling according to claim 8, wherein, The antenna is formed around the connector body, and the contact point of the antenna is located in a recess formed on the rearward edge of the connector body.

10. The quick connector coupling according to claim 8, wherein, The quick connector includes a blocking material between the contact points of the RFID chip and the antenna, and when the convex member is inserted into the connector body, the blocking material is removed and the verifier moves to the locking position.

11. A quick connector coupling for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline, the quick connector coupling comprising: A connector body having a through hole for receiving the convex member, the convex member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through hole of the connector body and having a thickened portion; A retainer that releasably secures the convex member within the connector body; as well as A verifier, which is connected to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locking position and a non-locking position; The connector body includes an RFID chip and an antenna connected to the RFID chip, and the RFID chip is attached to the outer surface of the connector body. The verifier includes a conductor attached to the surface of the verifier; When the verifier moves to the locking position, the antenna is electrically connected to the RFID chip via the conductor attached to the verifier, allowing the signal from the RFID chip to be read through the antenna; and The antenna includes a first wire and a second wire attached to the connector body, and the antenna is electrically connected to the RFID chip when the first wire and the second wire come into contact with a conductor on the rear surface of the retainer beam attached to the verifier.

12. The quick connector coupling according to claim 11, wherein, The antenna is attached around the outer surface of the connector body.

13. A quick connector coupling for forming a separable connection with a convex member and a concave tube in a fluid pipeline, the quick connector coupling comprising: A connector body having a through hole for receiving the convex member, the convex member having a tubular shape sized to extend into the through hole of the connector body and having a thickened portion; A retainer that releasably secures the convex member within the connector body; as well as A verifier, which is connected to the connector body and moves within the connector body between a locked position and a non-locked position. The verifier includes an antenna with contact points and an RFID chip. Specifically, when the contact point of the antenna contacts the RFID chip at the locking position of the verifier, the signal of the RFID chip can be read through the antenna. When the verifier moves to the locking position, the antenna is electrically connected to the RFID chip through its contact point, allowing the signal of the RFID chip to be read through the antenna. The retainer beam of the verifier has a channel formed inside, and the channel is sized to receive a column member that moves inside the channel.

14. The quick connector coupling according to claim 13, wherein, The column member includes a first end and a second end, the first end being angled laterally along the longitudinal axis, and the second end having a bottom surface that is curved along the outer shape of the convex member.

15. The quick connector coupling according to claim 14, wherein, When the verifier is in the non-locked position, the elastic device connected to the first end of the column member is configured to push the column member open, thereby separating the RFID chip from the antenna.

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