Heated hose electrical connector

Abstract

An electrical connector system for use with an independent heated hose includes a first electrical connector, a second electrical connector, a third electrical connector, and a fourth electrical connector. The first electrical connector includes a first key that mates with a second key of the second electrical connector. The third electrical connector includes a third key that mates with a fourth key of the fourth electrical connector. The first key and the second key are different from the third key and the fourth key, thereby ensuring that the electrical connectors are correctly connected.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to electrical connectors, and more particularly to keyed electrical connectors for use with electrically heated hoses of multi-component (eg, fluid) dispensing systems.

[0002] A multi-component (e.g., fluid) applicator includes a dispensing system that receives separate inert material components, mixes the components according to a predetermined ratio, and then dispenses the components into an active compound. For example, multi-component applicators are often used to dispense epoxy resins and polyurethanes, which cure after mixing of the resin component and the active component (which are each inert). Some dispensing systems include an electrically heated hose that increases the temperature of the material components flowing through each hose to a desired temperature, thereby ensuring that a proper active mixture is achieved. The electrically heated hose includes an electrical connector that is used to electrically connect each heated hose segment to an electrical power source. Improperly connecting the electrical connector may result in a reduction in the amount of current supplied to the heated hose, thereby resulting in reduced performance of the electrically heated hose. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electrical connector system includes a first electrical connector, a second electrical connector, a third electrical connector, and a fourth electrical connector. The first electrical connector includes a first key. The second electrical connector includes a second key, and the second key is shaped to cooperate with the first key. The third electrical connector includes a third key. The fourth electrical connector includes a fourth key, and the fourth key is shaped to cooperate with the third key. The geometry of the first key is different from the geometry of the third key, and the geometry of the second key is different from the geometry of the fourth key.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a heated hose assembly includes a first heated hose, a second heated hose, a first electrical connector, a second electrical connector, and a third electrical connector and a fourth electrical connector. The first heated hose is configured to transfer a first fluid component. The second heated hose is configured to transfer a second fluid component. The first electrical connector is electrically connected to a heating element of the first heated hose, and the first electrical connector includes a first key. The second electrical connector is electrically connected to the heating element of the first heated hose, and the second electrical connector includes a second key, and the second key is shaped to mate with the first key. The third electrical connector is electrically connected to the heating element of the second heated hose, and the third electrical connector includes a third key. The fourth electrical connector is electrically connected to the heating element of the second heated hose, and the fourth electrical connector includes a fourth key, and the fourth key is shaped to mate with the third key.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating a heated hose assembly is disclosed. The method includes: providing a first heated hose, the first heated hose being configured to transfer a first fluid component, the first heated hose comprising a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector, each of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector being electrically connected to a heating element of the first heated hose; providing a second heated hose, the second heated hose being configured to transfer a second fluid component, the second heated hose comprising a third electrical connector and a fourth electrical connector, each of the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector being electrically connected to a heating element of the second heated hose; electrically connecting the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector so that a first key of the first electrical connector mates with a second key of the second electrical connector; electrically connecting the third electrical connector to the fourth electrical connector so that a third key of the third electrical connector mates with a fourth key of the fourth electrical connector; supplying a first current through the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector to increase a temperature of the first fluid component transferred through the first heated hose; and supplying a second current through the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector to increase a temperature of the second fluid component transferred through the second heated hose. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a heated hose assembly including an electrical connector system.

[0007] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a first electrical connector.

[0008] Figure 2B is a front view of the first electrical connector.

[0009] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a second electrical connector.

[0010] Figure 3B is a front view of the second electrical connector.

[0011] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector after being disconnected.

[0012] Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector after connection.

[0013] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a third electrical connector.

[0014] Figure 5B is a front view of the third electrical connector.

[0015] Fig. 6A is a perspective view of a fourth electrical connector.

[0016] Figure 6B is a front view of the fourth electrical connector.

[0017] Fig. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector after being disconnected.

[0018] Figure 7B is a cross-sectional view of the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector after being connected. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a heated hose assembly 10 including an electrical connector system 12. The heated hose assembly 10 includes a first heated hose 14, a second heated hose 16, and the electrical connector system 12. In some examples, the heated hose assembly 10 can be used in a multi-component dispensing system that receives separate inert material components, mixes the components according to a predetermined ratio, and then dispenses the components into an active compound. The heated hose assembly 10 includes an electrically heated hose that is configured to increase the temperature of the material components flowing through each hose to ensure that the proper active mixture is achieved.

[0020] More specifically, the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 are configured to transmit a first fluid component and a second fluid component, respectively, which may be different from each other. The first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 are independently heated hoses that receive separate power (e.g., current) at the heating element (e.g., wire) of each heated hose 14, 16 to heat each hose independently relative to the other hose. In some examples, the heating element may be one or more copper wires wrapped around each of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16. Independently heating the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 allows for greater power density, thereby providing increased heating capacity for each of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16. The electrical connector system 12 is connected to the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16. The electrical connector system 12 is configured to electrically connect the heating element of each heated hose segment to a power source.

[0021] The electrical connector system 12 includes a first electrical connector 18, a second electrical connector 20, a third electrical connector 22, and a fourth electrical connector 24. The first electrical connector 18 is electrically connected to the heating element 14a of the first heated hose 14. The second electrical connector 20 is electrically connected to the heating element 14a of the first heated hose 14. The third electrical connector 22 is electrically connected to the heating element 16a of the second heated hose 16. The fourth electrical connector 24 is electrically connected to the heating element 16a of the second heated hose 16. In some examples, the first electrical connector 18, the second electrical connector 20, and the heating element 14a can be referred to as a first subassembly of the heated hose assembly 10. Additionally, in some examples, the third electrical connector 22, the fourth electrical connector 24, and the heating element 16a can be referred to as a second subassembly of the heated hose assembly 10. The first and second subassemblies of the heated hose assembly 10 are configured to increase the temperature of the fluid components flowing through the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16, respectively.

[0022] The first electrical connector 18 is a male connector and the second electrical connector 20 is a female connector, and the first electrical connector 18 is configured to mate and connect with the second electrical connector 20. The third electrical connector 22 is a male connector and the fourth electrical connector 24 is a female connector, and the third electrical connector 22 is configured to mate and connect with the fourth electrical connector 24.

[0023] More specifically, both the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 include dual male / female connectors. The first electrical connector 18 includes an inner female connector located at the central axis of the first electrical connector 18 and an outer male connector positioned radially outward from the inner female connector. The second electrical connector 20 includes an inner male connector located at the central axis of the second electrical connector 20 and an outer female connector positioned radially outward from the inner male connector. In this way, the inner female connector of the first electrical connector 18 is configured to mate with the inner male connector of the second electrical connector 20. The outer male connector of the first electrical connector 18 is configured to mate with the outer female connector of the second electrical connector 20. In some examples, the first male / female connection can be structural (e.g., the inner male connector of the second electrical connector 20 and the inner female connector of the first electrical connector 18), and the second male / female connection can be electrical (e.g., the outer female connector of the second electrical connector 20 and the outer male connector of the first electrical connector 18).

[0024] Likewise, both the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 include dual male / female connectors. The third electrical connector 22 includes an inner female connector located at the central axis of the third electrical connector 22 and an outer male connector positioned radially outward from the inner female connector. The fourth electrical connector 24 includes an inner male connector located at the central axis of the fourth electrical connector 24 and an outer female connector positioned radially outward from the inner male connector. In this way, the inner female connector of the third electrical connector 22 is configured to mate with the inner male connector of the fourth electrical connector 24. The outer male connector of the third electrical connector 22 is configured to mate with the outer female connector of the fourth electrical connector 24. In some examples, the third male / female connection can be structural (e.g., an outer female connector of the fourth electrical connector 24 and an outer male connector of the third electrical connector 22), and the fourth male / female connection can be electrical (e.g., an inner male connector of the fourth electrical connector 24 and an inner female connector of the third electrical connector 22).

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the first heated hose 14 includes two electrical connectors of each of the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20. Likewise, the second heated hose 16 includes two electrical connectors of each of the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24. In another embodiment, the heated hoses 14, 16 may include more or less than two electrical connectors of each of the electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24. Each of the electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24 is configured to be connected to a mating connector to transmit electrical current from a power source to the first heated hose 14 or the second heated hose 16.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the heated hose assembly 10 may include multiple heated hose segments that are connected to increase the total length of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16. This allows a user to dispense the active fluid component mixture at a location away from the fluid component container. Each of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 includes a fluid connector at the distal end of each hose 14, 16, which fluidly connects each hose segment to another hose segment to provide a flow path for the first fluid component and the second fluid component. In addition, each of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 includes an electrical connector 18, 20, 22 and 24, which electrically connects each hose segment to another hose segment to allow current to be transmitted through each of these hose segments.

[0027] More specifically, a section of the first heated hose 14 includes a first electrical connector 18, and another section of the first heated hose 14 includes a second electrical connector 20. The first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 are configured to mate and electrically connect, thereby allowing current to be transmitted from the section of the first heated hose 14 to the other section of the first heated hose 14. Similarly, a section of the second heated hose 16 includes a third electrical connector 22, and another section of the second heated hose 16 includes a fourth electrical connector 24. The third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 are configured to mate and electrically connect, thereby allowing current to be transmitted from the section of the second heated hose 16 to the other section of the second heated hose 16. In this way, the electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24 ensure that current is transmitted to each section of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 to increase the temperature of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16.

[0028] Figure 2A is a perspective view of the first electrical connector 18 . Figure 2B is a front view of the first electrical connector 18 . Figure 3A is a perspective view of the second electrical connector 20 . Figure 3B is a front view of the second electrical connector 20 . Figure 4A 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 after being disconnected. Figure 4B 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 after being connected. FIG. 2A to FIG. 4B will be discussed together.

[0029] refer to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B , the first electrical connector 18 includes a first body 30, a first flange 32, a first key 34, a first threaded insert 36, a second threaded insert 38, a first end face 40, a first seal 42, a first metal connector 44 and a first hole 46. The first body 30 is a main body portion of the first electrical connector 18 that connects other components of the first electrical connector 18. The first flange 32 is positioned adjacent to the first body 30 and the first flange 32 extends radially outward from the first body 30. The first flange 32 includes a hole extending through the first flange 32, and the first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38 are positioned in the hole. The first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38 are configured to receive and cooperate with fasteners, which will be discussed further below. The first threaded insert 36 is positioned 180 degrees away from the second threaded insert 38 around the first axis 48. In some examples, the first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38 can be molded into the first flange 32 during the manufacture of the first electrical connector 18. In other examples, the first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38 may be connected to the first flange 32 after manufacture of the first electrical connector 18 .

[0030] The first key 34 is positioned adjacent to the first flange 32, and the first key 34 extends axially outward from the first flange 32 and the first body 30 relative to a first axis 48 extending through the center of the first flange 32 and the first body 30. The first key 34 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a first cutout 50 and a second cutout 52 extending from the first end face 40 of the first key 34 to the first flange 32. In the example shown, the first cutout 50 and the second cutout 52 include arcuate or partially circular shaped cutouts extending into the cylindrically shaped first key 34. In another example, the first cutout 50 and the second cutout 52 can have any desired shape, as long as the first cutout 50 and the second cutout 52 have the same shape geometry. The first cutout 50 is positioned 180 degrees away from the second cutout 52 about the first axis 48. The first end face 40 of the first key 34 is positioned at the distal end of the first key 34. The first seal 42 is positioned adjacent to where the first key 34 interfaces with the first flange 32 and the first seal 42 surrounds the periphery of the first key 34. The first seal 42 is configured to prevent debris from entering the first electrical connector 18 when the first electrical connector 18 is connected to the second electrical connector 20. In the example shown, the first seal 42 is an O-ring seal, but in another example, the first seal 42 can be any component that prevents debris from entering the first electrical connector 18 when the first electrical connector 18 is connected to the second electrical connector 20.

[0031] The first end face 40 is configured to cover the first metal connector 44, thereby preventing the user from touching the first metal connector 44. The first metal connector 44 is a female connector located within the first body 30 and the first key 34 of the first electrical connector 18. The first metal connector 44 is a component that electrically connects the first electrical connector 18 to the second electrical connector 20, thereby allowing current to be transmitted between each connector 18, 20. A user touching the first metal connector 44 and the second metal connector 64 of the second electrical connector 20 at the same time may cause the circuit to be complete, which may cause the user to be electrocuted or injured. In this way, the first end face 40 is configured to prevent the user from touching the first metal connector 44 and injuring themselves during the connection or disconnection of the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20. The first hole 46 is axially aligned with the first axis 48, and the first hole 46 extends through the first end face 40. The first hole 46 allows access to the first metal connector 44, thereby allowing the second metal connector 64 of the second electrical connector 20 to interface with the first metal connector 44, which is discussed further below. The first electrical connector 18 is configured to mate with the second electrical connector 20 to complete an electrical circuit, thereby allowing current to be transmitted from the first electrical connector 18 to the second electrical connector 20. In addition, the first electrical connector 18 is symmetrical about a plane extending through the central axis of the first threaded insert 36 and the central axis of the second threaded insert 38, thereby allowing the first electrical connector 18 to be rotated 180 degrees about the first axis 48 and still mate and connect with the second electrical connector 20.

[0032] refer to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B , the second electrical connector 20 includes a second body 54, a second flange 56, a second key 58, a first fastener 60, a second fastener 62, a second metal connector 64 and a second hole 66. The second body 54 is a main body portion of the second electrical connector 20 that connects other components of the second electrical connector 20. The second flange 56 is positioned adjacent to the second body 54 and the second flange 56 extends radially outward from the second body 54. The second flange 56 includes a hole extending through the second flange 56, and the first fastener 60 and the second fastener 62 are positioned in the hole. The first fastener 60 and the second fastener 62 are configured to cooperate with the first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38 of the first electrical connector 18, respectively. The first fastener 60 is positioned 180 degrees away from the second fastener 62 around the second axis 68.

[0033] The second key 58 is positioned within the second flange 56 and the second body 54. More specifically, the second key 58 extends axially inwardly into the second flange 56 and the second body 54 relative to a second axis 68 extending through the center of the second flange 56 and the second body 54. The shape of the second key 58 is generally cylindrical and includes a first protrusion 70 and a second protrusion 72 extending inwardly toward the second axis 68. In the example shown, the first protrusion 70 and the second protrusion 72 include arc-shaped or partially circular protrusions extending inwardly from the cylindrically shaped second key 58. In another example, the first protrusion 70 and the second protrusion 72 can have any desired shape, as long as the first protrusion 70 and the second protrusion 72 have the same shape geometry. The first protrusion 70 is positioned 180 degrees away from the second protrusion 72 around the second axis 68.

[0034] The second hole 66 is axially aligned with the second axis 68, and the second hole 66 extends into the second body 54. The second hole 66 provides a location where the second metal connector 64 can be connected. The second metal connector 64 is a male connector located within the second key 58 of the second electrical connector 20 and the second hole 66 of the second body 54. The second metal connector 64 is a component that electrically connects the second electrical connector 20 to the first electrical connector 18, thereby allowing current to be transmitted between each connector. More specifically, the second metal connector 64 of the second electrical connector 20 is inserted into the first metal connector 44 of the first electrical connector 18 to complete the circuit and transmit current between the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20. The second electrical connector 20 is configured to mate with and be connected to the first electrical connector 18 during operation of the heated hose assembly 10, as discussed further below. In addition, the second electrical connector 20 is symmetrical about a plane extending through the center axis of the first fastener 60 and the center axis of the second fastener 62, thereby allowing the second electrical connector 20 to rotate 180 degrees around the second axis 68 and still mate and connect with the first electrical connector 18.

[0035] refer to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B , the first electrical connector 18 is shown disconnected from the second electrical connector 20 ( Figure 4A ), and the first electrical connector 18 is shown connected to the second electrical connector 20 ( Figure 4B ). When the first electrical connector 18 is disconnected from the second electrical connector 20, the features and / or components of the first electrical connector 18 are separated from the second electrical connector 20 so that no current is transmitted between these connectors. When the first electrical connector 18 is connected to the second electrical connector 20, the features and / or components of the first electrical connector 18 are in contact with the features and / or components of the second electrical connector 20 so that current can be transmitted between these connectors.

[0036] More specifically, when the first electrical connector 18 is connected to the second electrical connector 20, the first flange 32 is adjacent to and abuts the second flange 56. The first fastener 60 is inserted into and secured to the first threaded insert 36, and the second fastener 62 is inserted into and secured to the second threaded insert 38. Securing the fasteners 60, 62 to the threaded inserts 36, 38 ensures that the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 will remain secured together during operation of the heated hose assembly 10. The first seal 42 is positioned and compressed between the first flange 32 and the second flange 56, thereby generating a force that pushes the first flange 32 and the second flange 56 away from each other. The force generated by the first seal 42 causes the first fastener 60 and the second fastener 62 to become tensioned, thereby ensuring that the first fastener 60 and the second fastener 62 remain secured to the first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38, respectively.

[0037] In addition, when the first electrical connector 18 is connected to the second electrical connector 20, the first metal connector 44 slides over and engages the second metal connector 64, so that the first metal connector 44 surrounds the second metal connector 64. The engagement of the first metal connector 44 and the second metal connector 64 creates an electrical path, thereby allowing current to be transmitted from the first electrical connector 18 to the second electrical connector 20, or vice versa. In order to ensure that the first electrical connector 18 is properly connected to the second electrical connector 20, the first key 34 is shaped to mate with the second key 58, and the first key 34 is inserted into the second key 58. More specifically, the first cutout 50 of the first electrical connector 18 is shaped to receive the first protrusion 70 of the second electrical connector 20. Similarly, the second cutout 52 of the first electrical connector 18 is shaped to receive the second protrusion 72 of the second electrical connector 20.

[0038] The geometry of the first notch 50 is the same as the second notch 52, and the geometry of the first protrusion 70 is the same as the second protrusion 72. In this way, the first electrical connector 18 can be rotated 180 degrees about the first axis 48 and the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 can still mate and connect. In this configuration, the first notch 50 of the first electrical connector 18 can receive the second protrusion 72 of the second electrical connector 20, and the second notch 52 of the first electrical connector 18 can receive the first protrusion 70 of the second electrical connector 20. The first key 34 and the second key 58 have mating first notches 50, second notches 52, first protrusions 70 and second protrusions 72, thereby ensuring that the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 are properly connected to each other and the full amount of electrical current can be transmitted through the connectors 18, 20.

[0039] Figure 5Ais a perspective view of the third electrical connector 22 . Figure 5B is a front view of the third electrical connector 22 . Fig. 6A is a perspective view of the fourth electrical connector 24 . Figure 6B is a front view of the fourth electrical connector 24 . Fig. 7A 2 is a cross-sectional view of the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 after being disconnected. Figure 7B 2 is a cross-sectional view of the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 after being connected. FIG. 5A to FIG. 7B Will be discussed together.

[0040] refer to FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B , the third electrical connector 22 includes a third body 74, a third flange 76, a third key 78, a third threaded insert 80, a fourth threaded insert 82, a third end face 84, a second seal 86, a third metal connector 88 and a third hole 90. The third body 74 is a main body portion of the third electrical connector 22 that connects other components of the third electrical connector 22. The third flange 76 is positioned adjacent to the third body 74, and the third flange 76 extends radially outward from the third body 74. The third flange 76 includes a hole extending through the third flange 76, and the third threaded insert 80 and the fourth threaded insert 82 are positioned in the hole. The third threaded insert 80 and the fourth threaded insert 82 are configured to receive and cooperate with fasteners, which will be discussed further below. The third threaded insert 80 is positioned 180 degrees away from the fourth threaded insert 82 around the third axis 92. In some examples, the third threaded insert 80 and the fourth threaded insert 82 can be molded into the third flange 76 during the manufacture of the third electrical connector 22. In other examples, the third and fourth threaded inserts 80 , 82 may be connected to the third flange 76 after manufacture of the third electrical connector 22 .

[0041] The third key 78 is positioned adjacent to the third flange 76 and extends axially outward from the third flange 76 and the third body 74 relative to a third axis 92 extending through the center of the third flange 76 and the third body 74. The third key 78 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a third cutout 94 and a fourth cutout 96 extending from a third end face 84 of the third key 78 to the third flange 76. In the example shown, the third cutout 94 and the fourth cutout 96 include cutouts of a generally triangular shape extending into the cylindrically shaped third key 78. In another example, the third cutout 94 and the fourth cutout 96 can have any desired shape as long as the third cutout 94 and the fourth cutout 96 have the same shape geometry. The third cutout 94 is positioned 180 degrees away from the fourth cutout 96 about the third axis 92. The third end face 84 of the third key 78 is positioned at the distal end of the third key 78. The second seal 86 is positioned adjacent to where the third key 78 interfaces with the third flange 76 and the second seal 86 surrounds the periphery of the third key 78. The second seal 86 is configured to prevent debris from entering the third electrical connector 22 when the third electrical connector 22 is connected to the fourth electrical connector 24. In the example shown, the second seal 86 is an O-ring seal, but in another example, the second seal 86 can be any component that prevents debris from entering the third electrical connector 22 when the third electrical connector 22 is connected to the fourth electrical connector 24.

[0042] The third end face 84 is configured to cover the third metal connector 88, thereby preventing the user from touching the third metal connector 88. The third metal connector 88 is a female connector located within the third body 74 and the third key 78 of the third electrical connector 22. The third metal connector 88 is a component that electrically connects the third electrical connector 22 to the fourth electrical connector 24, thereby allowing current to be transmitted between each connector. A user touching the third metal connector 88 and the fourth metal connector 108 of the fourth electrical connector 24 at the same time may cause the circuit to be complete, which may cause the user to be electrocuted or injured. In this way, the third end face 84 is configured to prevent the user from touching the third metal connector 88 and injuring themselves during the connection or disconnection of the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24. The third hole 90 is axially aligned with the third axis 92, and the third hole 90 extends through the third end face 84. The third hole 90 allows access to the third metal connector 88, thereby allowing the fourth metal connector 108 of the fourth electrical connector 24 to interface with the third metal connector 88, which is discussed further below. The third electrical connector 22 is configured to mate with the fourth electrical connector 24 to complete the circuit, thereby allowing current to be transmitted from the third electrical connector 22 to the fourth electrical connector 24. In addition, the third electrical connector 22 is symmetrical about a plane extending through the central axis of the third threaded insert 80 and the central axis of the fourth threaded insert 82, thereby allowing the third electrical connector 22 to be rotated 180 degrees about the third axis 92 and still mate and connect with the fourth electrical connector 24.

[0043] refer to FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B , the fourth electrical connector 24 includes a fourth body 98, a fourth flange 100, a fourth key 102, a third fastener 104, a fourth fastener 106, a fourth metal connector 108 and a fourth hole 110. The fourth body 98 is a main body portion of the fourth electrical connector 24 that connects other components of the fourth electrical connector 24. The fourth flange 100 is positioned adjacent to the fourth body 98, and the fourth flange 100 extends radially outward from the fourth body 98. The fourth flange 100 includes a hole extending through the fourth flange 100, and the third fastener 104 and the fourth fastener 106 are positioned in the hole. The third fastener 104 and the fourth fastener 106 are configured to cooperate with the third threaded insert 80 and the fourth threaded insert 82 of the third electrical connector 22, respectively. The third fastener 104 is positioned 180 degrees away from the fourth fastener 106 around the fourth axis 112.

[0044] The fourth key 102 is positioned within the fourth flange 100 and the fourth body 98. More specifically, the fourth key 102 extends axially inwardly into the fourth flange 100 and the fourth body 98 relative to a fourth axis 112 extending through the center of the fourth flange 100 and the fourth body 98. The shape of the fourth key 102 is generally cylindrical and includes a third protrusion 114 and a fourth protrusion 116 extending inwardly toward the fourth axis 112. In the example shown, the third protrusion 114 and the fourth protrusion 116 include generally triangular-shaped protrusions extending inwardly from the cylindrically shaped fourth key 102. In another example, the third protrusion 114 and the fourth protrusion 116 can have any desired shape as long as the third protrusion 114 and the fourth protrusion 116 have the same shape geometry. The third protrusion 114 is positioned 180 degrees away from the fourth protrusion 116 around the fourth axis 112.

[0045] The fourth hole 110 is axially aligned with the fourth axis 112, and the fourth hole 110 extends into the fourth body 98. The fourth hole 110 provides a location where a fourth metal connector 108 can be connected. The fourth metal connector 108 is a male connector located within the fourth key 102 of the fourth electrical connector 24 and the fourth hole 110 of the fourth body 98. The fourth metal connector 108 is a component that electrically connects the fourth electrical connector 24 to the third electrical connector 22 to allow current to be transmitted between each connector. More specifically, the fourth metal connector 108 of the fourth electrical connector 24 is inserted into the third metal connector 88 of the third electrical connector 22 to complete the circuit and transmit current between the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24. The fourth electrical connector 24 is configured to mate with and be connected to the third electrical connector 22 during operation of the heated hose assembly 10, as discussed further below. Additionally, the fourth electrical connector 24 is symmetrical about a plane extending through the central axes of the third fastener 104 and the fourth fastener 106 , thereby allowing the fourth electrical connector 24 to rotate 180 degrees about the fourth axis 112 and still mate and connect with the third electrical connector 22 .

[0046] refer to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B , the third electrical connector 22 is shown disconnected from the fourth electrical connector 24 ( Fig. 7A ), and the third electrical connector 22 is shown connected to the fourth electrical connector 24 ( Figure 7B ). When the third electrical connector 22 is disconnected from the fourth electrical connector 24, the features and / or components of the third electrical connector 22 are separated from the fourth electrical connector 24, so that no current is transmitted between these connectors. When the third electrical connector 22 is connected to the fourth electrical connector 24, the features and / or components of the third electrical connector 22 are in contact with the features and / or components of the fourth electrical connector 24, so that current can be transmitted between these connectors.

[0047] More specifically, when the third electrical connector 22 is connected to the fourth electrical connector 24, the third flange 76 is adjacent to and abuts the fourth flange 100. The third fastener 104 is inserted into and secured to the third threaded insert 80, and the fourth fastener 106 is inserted into and secured to the fourth threaded insert 82. Securing the fasteners 60, 62 to the threaded inserts 36, 38 ensures that the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 will remain secured together during operation of the heated hose assembly 10. The second seal 86 is positioned and compressed between the third flange 76 and the fourth flange 100, thereby generating a force that pushes the third flange 76 and the fourth flange 100 away from each other. The force generated by the second seal 86 causes the third and fourth fasteners 104, 106 to become tensioned, thereby ensuring that the third and fourth fasteners 104, 106 remain secured to the third and fourth threaded inserts 80, 82, respectively.

[0048] In addition, when the third electrical connector 22 is connected to the fourth electrical connector 24, the third metal connector 88 slides on and engages the fourth metal connector 108, so that the third metal connector 88 surrounds the fourth metal connector 108. The engagement of the third metal connector 88 and the fourth metal connector 108 creates an electrical path, thereby allowing current to be transmitted from the third electrical connector 22 to the fourth electrical connector 24, or vice versa. In order to ensure that the third electrical connector 22 is properly connected to the fourth electrical connector 24, the third key 78 is shaped to mate with the fourth key 102, and the third key 78 is inserted into the fourth key 102. More specifically, the third notch 94 of the third electrical connector 22 is shaped to receive the third protrusion 114 of the fourth electrical connector 24. Similarly, the fourth notch 96 of the third electrical connector 22 is shaped to receive the fourth protrusion 116 of the fourth electrical connector 24.

[0049] The geometry of the third notch 94 is the same as the fourth notch 96, and the geometry of the third protrusion 114 is the same as the fourth protrusion 116. In this way, the third electrical connector 22 can be rotated 180 degrees about the third axis 92 and the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 can still mate and connect. In this configuration, the third notch 94 of the third electrical connector 22 can receive the fourth protrusion 116 of the fourth electrical connector 24, and the fourth notch 96 of the third electrical connector 22 can receive the third protrusion 114 of the fourth electrical connector 24. The third key 78 and the fourth key 102 have mating third notches 94, fourth notches 96, third protrusions 114, and fourth protrusions 116, thereby ensuring that the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 are properly connected to each other and the full amount of current can flow through the connectors 22, 24.

[0050] As discussed, the first key 34 of the first electrical connector 18 is configured to mate with the second key 58 of the second electrical connector 20. More specifically, the first notch 50 and the second notch 52 of the first electrical connector 18 are shaped to mate with the first protrusion 70 and the second protrusion 72 of the second electrical connector 20. Likewise, the third key 78 of the third electrical connector 22 is configured to mate with the fourth key 102 of the fourth electrical connector 24. More specifically, the third notch 94 and the fourth notch 96 of the third electrical connector 22 are shaped to mate with the third protrusion 114 and the fourth protrusion 116 of the fourth electrical connector 24. Thus, the first key 34, the second key 58, the third key 78, and the fourth key 102 ensure that the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 are properly connected, and ensure that the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 are properly connected. Additionally, the first key 34 , the second key 58 , the third key 78 , and the fourth key 102 prevent the first electrical connector 18 from connecting to the fourth electrical connector 24 and prevent the third electrical connector 22 from connecting to the second electrical connector 20 .

[0051] The first electrical connector 18 includes a first key 34 having a geometry that is different from the geometry of the third key 78 of the third electrical connector 22. In addition, the first electrical connector 18 includes a first key 34 having a geometry that cannot be matched with the geometry of the fourth key 102 of the fourth electrical connector 24. More specifically, the first notch 50 and the second notch 52 of the first electrical connector 18 include geometries that are not conformable and matched with the third protrusion 114 and the fourth protrusion 116 of the fourth electrical connector 24. In this way, the first key 34 and the fourth key 102 cannot be connected, thereby preventing the first electrical connector 18 and the fourth electrical connector 24 from being electrically connected. Similarly, the third electrical connector 22 includes a third key 78 having a geometry that is different from the geometry of the first key 34 of the first electrical connector 18. In addition, the third electrical connector 22 includes a third key 78 having a geometry that cannot be matched with the geometry of the second key 58 of the second electrical connector 20. More specifically, the third cutout 94 and the fourth cutout 96 of the third electrical connector 22 include geometries that are not conformable and mating with the first protrusion 70 and the second protrusion 72 of the second electrical connector 20. As such, the third key 78 and the second key 58 cannot be connected, thereby preventing the third electrical connector 22 and the second electrical connector 20 from being electrically connected.

[0052] The electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24, which include keys 34, 58, 78, and 102, respectively, ensure that the electrical connector system 12 of the heated hose assembly 10 is properly connected. In turn, this ensures that current and power are supplied to be sufficient to heat the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16. The geometry of the keys 34, 58, 78, and 102 allows a user to easily and repeatedly connect the electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24. In addition, the first end face 40 and the third end face 84 prevent a user from touching the first metal connector 44 and the third electrical connector 22, thereby preventing the user from completing the circuit and electrocuting themselves or others. In addition, the first threaded insert 36, the second threaded insert 38, the first fastener 60, and the second fastener 62 ensure that the connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24 remain fixed together during operation of the heated hose assembly 10, thereby providing current to the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16. The electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24 can be constructed of one or more of glass-filled nylon, glass-filled plastic, and other composite materials to meet nationally recognized safety and sustainability standards. The electrical connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24 include keys 34, 58, 78, and 102, respectively, having different mating geometries to ensure that the connectors 18, 20, 22, and 24 can only be connected in the correct configuration to provide the necessary current and power to the independently heated first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16.

[0053] The heated hose assembly 10 utilizes the electrical connector system 12 to increase the temperature of the first fluid component and the second fluid component flowing through the conduits of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16, respectively. An example method of operating the heated hose assembly 10 may include providing a first heated hose 14 configured to convey a first fluid component, the first heated hose 14 including a first electrical connector 18 and a second electrical connector 20, each electrically connected to a heating element of the first heated hose 14. Providing a second heated hose 16 configured to convey a second fluid component, the second heated hose 16 including a third electrical connector 22 and a fourth electrical connector 24, each electrically connected to a heating element of the second heated hose 16. The electrical connection of the first electrical connector 18 with the second electrical connector 20 causes the first key 34 of the first electrical connector 18 to mate with the second key 58 of the second electrical connector 20. The electrical connection of the third electrical connector 22 with the fourth electrical connector 24 causes the third key 78 of the third electrical connector 22 to mate with the fourth key 102 of the fourth electrical connector 24. A first electrical current is supplied through the first electrical connector 18 and the second electrical connector 20 to increase the temperature of the first fluid component transmitted through the first heated hose 14. A second electrical current is supplied through the third electrical connector 22 and the fourth electrical connector 24 to increase the temperature of the second fluid component transmitted through the second heated hose 16.

[0054] The method may also include providing a first threaded insert 36 and a second threaded insert 38 within the first flange 32 of the first electrical connector 18. Providing a first fastener 60 and a second fastener 62 extending through the second flange 56 of the second electrical connector 20. The first fastener 60 and the second fastener 62 are threadedly connected into the first threaded insert 36 and the second threaded insert 38, respectively, to connect the first electrical connector 18 to the second electrical connector 20. Providing a third threaded insert 80 and a fourth threaded insert 82 within the third flange 76 of the third electrical connector 22. Providing a third fastener 104 and a fourth fastener 106 extending through the fourth flange 100 of the fourth electrical connector 24. The third fastener 104 and the fourth fastener 106 are threadedly connected into the third threaded insert 80 and the fourth threaded insert 82, respectively, to connect the third electrical connector 22 to the fourth electrical connector 24. It will be understood that the foregoing method steps for increasing the temperature of the first heated hose 14 and the second heated hose 16 are merely example steps, and the method may include other steps not specifically described.

[0055] Discussion of non-exclusive examples

[0056] The following is a non-exclusive description of possible examples of the invention.

[0057] An electrical connector system comprises: a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector comprising a first key; a second electrical connector, the second electrical connector comprising a second key, the second key being formed to mate with the first key; a third electrical connector, the third electrical connector comprising a third key; and a fourth electrical connector, the fourth electrical connector comprising a fourth key, the fourth key being formed to mate with the third key; wherein the geometry of the first key is different from the geometry of the third key, and wherein the geometry of the second key is different from the geometry of the fourth key.

[0058] The electrical connector system of the previous paragraph may optionally, additionally and / or alternatively include one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0059] The first electrical connector is a male connector and the second electrical connector is a female connector, and wherein the first electrical connector is configured to mate and connect with the second electrical connector.

[0060] The third electrical connector is a male connector and the fourth electrical connector is a female connector, and wherein the third electrical connector is configured to mate with and connect with the fourth electrical connector.

[0061] The first electrical connector further includes a first body and a first flange extending radially outward from the first body; and the second electrical connector further includes a second body and a second flange extending radially outward from the second body.

[0062] First and second threaded inserts are positioned within the first flange of the first electrical connector; and first and second fasteners are positioned within and extend through the second flange of the second electrical connector.

[0063] The first threaded insertion portion is connected to a first fastener when the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are connected; and the second threaded insertion portion is connected to a second fastener when the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are connected.

[0064] The third electrical connector further includes a third body and a third flange extending radially outward from the third body; and the fourth electrical connector further includes a fourth body and a fourth flange extending radially outward from the fourth body.

[0065] A third threaded insert and a fourth threaded insert are positioned within the third flange of the third electrical connector; and a third fastener and a fourth fastener are positioned within and extend through the fourth flange of the fourth electrical connector.

[0066] When the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are connected, the third threaded insertion portion is connected to the third fastener; and when the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are connected, the fourth threaded insertion portion is connected to the fourth fastener.

[0067] The first key includes a first cutout and a second cutout extending from a first end surface of the first electrical connector to a first flange of the first electrical connector; and the second key includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion extending into a second hole of a second body of the second electrical connector.

[0068] The first cutout is positioned 180 degrees from the second cutout about a first axis extending through a first hole of the first electrical connector; and the first protrusion is positioned 180 degrees from the second protrusion about a second axis extending through the second hole of the second electrical connector.

[0069] The first cutout comprises the same geometry as the second cutout; the first protrusion comprises the same geometry as the second protrusion; the first cutout is shaped to receive the first protrusion and the second cutout is shaped to receive the second protrusion; and the first cutout is shaped to receive the second protrusion and the second cutout is shaped to receive the first protrusion.

[0070] The third key includes a third cutout and a fourth cutout, and the third cutout and the fourth cutout extend from the third end face of the third electrical connector to the third flange of the third electrical connector; and the fourth key includes a third protrusion and a fourth protrusion, and the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion extend into the fourth hole of the fourth body of the fourth electrical connector.

[0071] The third cutout is positioned 180 degrees from the fourth cutout about a third axis extending through the third hole of the third electrical connector; and the third protrusion is positioned 180 degrees from the fourth protrusion about a fourth axis extending through the fourth hole of the fourth electrical connector.

[0072] The third cutout comprises the same geometry as the fourth cutout; the third protrusion comprises the same geometry as the fourth protrusion; the third cutout is shaped to receive the third protrusion, and the fourth cutout is shaped to receive the fourth protrusion; and the third cutout is shaped to receive the fourth protrusion, and the fourth cutout is shaped to receive the third protrusion.

[0073] The geometry of the first cut is different from that of the third cut and the fourth cut; the geometry of the second cut is different from that of the third cut and the fourth cut; the geometry of the first protrusion is different from that of the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion; and the geometry of the second protrusion is different from that of the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion.

[0074] The following are additional non-exclusive descriptions of possible examples of the invention.

[0075] A heated hose assembly includes: a first heated hose, the first heated hose being configured to transfer a first fluid component; a second heated hose, the second heated hose being configured to transfer a second fluid component; a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector being electrically connected to a heating element of the first heated hose, the first electrical connector comprising a first key; a second electrical connector, the second electrical connector being electrically connected to the heating element of the first heated hose, the second electrical connector comprising a second key, the second key being shaped to mate with the first key; a third electrical connector, the third electrical connector being electrically connected to the heating element of the second heated hose, the third electrical connector comprising a third key; and a fourth electrical connector, the fourth electrical connector being electrically connected to the heating element of the second heated hose, the fourth electrical connector comprising a fourth key, the fourth key being shaped to mate with the third key.

[0076] The heated hose assembly of the preceding paragraph may optionally, additionally and / or alternatively include any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0077] The first electrical connector also includes a first body, a first flange extending radially outward from the first body, a first threaded insert located in the first flange, and a second threaded insert located in the flange; and the second electrical connector also includes a second body, a second flange extending radially outward from the second body, a first fastener extending through the second flange, and a second fastener extending through the second flange.

[0078] The first electrical connector is symmetrical about a plane extending through a central axis of the first threaded insert and a central axis of the second threaded insert; and the second electrical connector is symmetrical about a plane extending through a central axis of the first fastener and a central axis of the second fastener.

[0079] The first key of the first electrical connector includes a first cutout and a second cutout having the same geometry; the second key of the second electrical connector includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion having the same geometry; the third key of the third electrical connector includes a third cutout and a fourth cutout having the same geometry; the fourth key of the fourth electrical connector includes a third protrusion and a fourth protrusion having the same geometry; the first cutout is formed to receive the first protrusion, and the second cutout is formed to receive the second protrusion; the third cutout is formed to receive the third protrusion, and the fourth cutout is formed to receive the fourth protrusion; the geometry of the first cutout is different from the geometry of the third cutout and the geometry of the fourth cutout; and the geometry of the first protrusion is different from the geometry of the third protrusion and the geometry of the fourth protrusion.

[0080] The following are additional non-exclusive descriptions of possible examples of the invention.

[0081] A method of operating a heated hose assembly, the method comprising: providing a first heated hose, the first heated hose configured to convey a first fluid component, the first heated hose comprising a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector, each of the first and second electrical connectors being electrically connected to a heating element of the first heated hose; providing a second heated hose, the second heated hose configured to convey a second fluid component, the second heated hose comprising a third electrical connector and a fourth electrical connector, each of the third and fourth electrical connectors being electrically connected to a heating element of the second heated hose; electrically connecting the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector such that a first key of the first electrical connector mates with a second key of the second electrical connector; electrically connecting the third electrical connector to the fourth electrical connector such that a third key of the third electrical connector mates with a fourth key of the fourth electrical connector; supplying a first current through the first and second electrical connectors to increase a temperature of the first fluid component conveyed through the first heated hose; and supplying a second current through the third and fourth electrical connectors to increase a temperature of the second fluid component conveyed through the second heated hose.

[0082] The method of the preceding paragraph may optionally, additionally and / or alternatively include one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0083] A first threaded insert and a second threaded insert are provided in a first flange of a first electrical connector; a first fastener and a second fastener extending through a second flange of the second electrical connector are provided; the first fastener and the second fastener are threadedly connected to the first threaded insert and the second threaded insert, respectively, to connect the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector; a third threaded insert and a fourth threaded insert are provided in a third flange of a third electrical connector; a third fastener and a fourth fastener extending through a fourth flange of the fourth electrical connector are provided; and the third fastener and the fourth fastener are threadedly connected to the third threaded insert and the fourth threaded insert, respectively, to connect the third electrical connector to the fourth electrical connector.

[0084] Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for its elements without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the present invention without departing from the essential scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is contemplated that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but that the present invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heated hose assembly, comprising: a first heated hose configured to convey a first fluid component; a second heated hose configured to convey a second fluid component; a first electrical connector electrically connected to a heating element of a first section of the first heated hose, the first electrical connector comprising a first key; a second electrical connector electrically connected to the heating element of the second section of the first heated hose, the second electrical connector comprising a second key shaped to mate with the first key; a third electrical connector electrically connected to the heating element of the first section of the second heated hose, the third electrical connector comprising a third key; a fourth electrical connector electrically connected to the heating element of the second section of the second heated hose, the fourth electrical connector including a fourth key shaped to mate with the third key; wherein the geometry of the first bond is different from the geometry of the third bond, and wherein the geometry of the second bond is different from the geometry of the fourth bond; wherein current flowing through the heating element of the first section of the first heated hose, the first electrical connector, the second electrical connector, and the second section of the first heated hose increases a temperature of a first fluid component transmitted through the first heated hose; and The electrical current flowing through the heating element of the first section of the second heated hose, the third electrical connector, the fourth electrical connector, and the second section of the second heated hose increases the temperature of the second fluid component transmitted through the second heated hose.

2. The heated hose assembly of claim 1, wherein the first electrical connector is a male connector and the second electrical connector is a female connector, and wherein the first electrical connector is configured to mate with and connect with the second electrical connector.

3. The heated hose assembly of claim 1, wherein the third electrical connector is a male connector and the fourth electrical connector is a female connector, and wherein the third electrical connector is configured to mate with and connect to the fourth electrical connector.

4. The heated hose assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first electrical connector further includes a first body and a first flange extending radially outward from the first body; and The second electrical connector also includes a second body and a second flange extending radially outward from the second body.

5. The heated hose assembly according to claim 4, wherein: A first threaded insert and a second threaded insert are positioned within the first flange of the first electrical connector; and A first fastener and a second fastener are positioned within and extend through the second flange of the second electrical connector.

6. The heated hose assembly according to claim 5, wherein: When the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are connected, the first threaded insert is connected to a first fastener; and When the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are connected, the second threaded insertion portion is connected to the second fastener.

7. The heated hose assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The third electrical connector further includes a third body and a third flange extending radially outwardly from the third body; and The fourth electrical connector also includes a fourth body and a fourth flange extending radially outward from the fourth body.

8. The heated hose assembly of claim 7, wherein: A third threaded insert and a fourth threaded insert are positioned within the third flange of the third electrical connector; and A third fastener and a fourth fastener are positioned within and extend through the fourth flange of the fourth electrical connector.

9. The heated hose assembly of claim 8, wherein: When the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are connected, the third threaded insertion portion is connected to the third fastener; and When the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are connected, the fourth threaded insertion portion is connected to the fourth fastener.

10. The heated hose assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first key includes a first notch and a second notch, the first notch and the second notch extending from a first end surface of the first electrical connector to a first flange of the first electrical connector; and The second key includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion extending into a second hole of the second body of the second electrical connector.

11. The heated hose assembly of claim 10, wherein: The first cutout is positioned 180 degrees from the second cutout about a first axis extending through a first hole of the first electrical connector; and The first protrusion is positioned 180 degrees from the second protrusion about a second axis extending through the second aperture of the second electrical connector.

12. The heated hose assembly of claim 10, wherein: The first cutout comprises the same geometry as the second cutout; The first protrusion comprises the same geometric shape as the second protrusion; The first cutout is shaped to receive the first protrusion, and the second cutout is shaped to receive the second protrusion; and The first cutout is shaped to receive the second projection, and the second cutout is shaped to receive the first projection.

13. The heated hose assembly of claim 10, wherein: The third key includes a third cutout and a fourth cutout, the third cutout and the fourth cutout extending from a third end surface of the third electrical connector to a third flange of the third electrical connector; and The fourth key includes a third protrusion and a fourth protrusion extending into a fourth hole of a fourth body of the fourth electrical connector.

14. The heated hose assembly of claim 13, wherein: The third cutout is positioned 180 degrees from the fourth cutout about a third axis extending through a third hole of the third electrical connector; and The third protrusion is positioned 180 degrees from the fourth protrusion about a fourth axis extending through the fourth hole of the fourth electrical connector.

15. The heated hose assembly of claim 13, wherein: The third cutout comprises the same geometry as the fourth cutout; The third protrusion comprises the same geometric shape as the fourth protrusion; The third cutout is shaped to receive the third protrusion, and the fourth cutout is shaped to receive the fourth protrusion; and The third cutout is shaped to receive the fourth protrusion, and the fourth cutout is shaped to receive the third protrusion.

16. The heated hose assembly of claim 15, wherein: The first cutout has a different geometry than the third cutout and the fourth cutout; The second cutout has a different geometry than the third cutout and the fourth cutout; The first protrusion has a different geometry than the third and fourth protrusions; and The second protrusion has a different geometry than the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion.

17. The heated hose assembly of claim 1, wherein: The first electrical connector further includes a first body, a first flange extending radially outward from the first body, a first threaded insert within the first flange, and a second threaded insert within the flange; and The second electrical connector also includes a second body, a second flange extending radially outward from the second body, a first fastener extending through the second flange, and a second fastener extending through the second flange.

18. The heated hose assembly of claim 17, wherein: The first electrical connector is symmetrical about a plane extending through a central axis of the first threaded insertion portion and a central axis of the second threaded insertion portion; and The second electrical connector is symmetrical about a plane extending through a central axis of the first fastener and a central axis of the second fastener.

19. The heated hose assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein: The first key of the first electrical connector includes a first cutout and a second cutout having the same geometric shape; The second key of the second electrical connector includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion having the same geometric shape; the third key of the third electrical connector comprising a third cutout and a fourth cutout having the same geometry; the fourth key of the fourth electrical connector comprising a third protrusion and a fourth protrusion having the same geometric shape; The first cutout is shaped to receive the first projection, and the second cutout is shaped to receive the second projection; the third cutout being shaped to receive the third protrusion, and the fourth cutout being shaped to receive the fourth protrusion; The geometry of the first cutout is different from the geometry of the third cutout and the geometry of the fourth cutout; and The geometry of the first protrusion is different from the geometry of the third protrusion and the geometry of the fourth protrusion.

20. A method of operating a heated hose assembly, the method comprising: providing a first heated hose configured to transfer a first fluid component, the first heated hose comprising a first electrical connector connected to a heating element of a first section of the first heated hose and a second electrical connector connected to a heating element of a second section of the first heated hose; providing a second heated hose configured to transfer a second fluid component, the second heated hose comprising a third electrical connector connected to the heating element of the first section of the second heated hose and a fourth electrical connector connected to the heating element of the second section of the second heated hose; connecting the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector such that the first key of the first electrical connector mates with the second key of the second electrical connector and such that the heating element of the first section of the first heated hose is electrically connected to the heating element of the second section of the first heated hose through the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector; connecting the third electrical connector to the fourth electrical connector so that the third key of the third electrical connector mates with the fourth key of the fourth electrical connector and so that the heating element of the first section of the second heated hose is electrically connected to the heating element of the second section of the second heated hose through the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector; supplying a first electrical current through the heating element of the first section of the first heated hose, the first electrical connector, the second electrical connector, and the heating element of the second section of the first heated hose to increase the temperature of the first fluid component transmitted through the first heated hose; as well as supplying a second electrical current through the heating element of the first section of the second heated hose, the third electrical connector, the fourth electrical connector, and the heating element of the second section of the second heated hose to increase the temperature of the second fluid component transmitted through the second heated hose; Wherein a geometry of the first bond is different from a geometry of the third bond, and wherein a geometry of the second bond is different from a geometry of the fourth bond.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising: providing a first threaded insertion portion and a second threaded insertion portion in the first flange of the first electrical connector; providing a first fastener and a second fastener extending through a second flange of the second electrical connector; threading the first fastener and the second fastener into the first threaded insert and the second threaded insert, respectively, to connect the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector; Disposing a third threaded insertion portion and a fourth threaded insertion portion in a third flange of the third electrical connector; providing a third fastener and a fourth fastener extending through a fourth flange of the fourth electrical connector; and The third fastener and the fourth fastener are threadedly connected into the third threaded insertion portion and the fourth threaded insertion portion, respectively, to connect the third electrical connector to the fourth electrical connector.

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