Flexible quick connector with detection function and detection method thereof

By introducing airflow channels and sensors into quick couplings, easy positioning and airtightness testing of docked pipes are achieved, solving the problems of complex positioning of fasteners and difficulty in determining the position of dust plugs, thus improving testing efficiency and accuracy.

CN115628340BActive Publication Date: 2026-05-29COOPER STANDARD AUTOMOTIVE SUZHOU CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
COOPER STANDARD AUTOMOTIVE SUZHOU CO LTD
Filing Date
2022-10-13
Publication Date
2026-05-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing quick couplings present complex positioning operations for the snap fasteners during pipe assembly, making it difficult to test airtightness and determine the position of dust plugs, thus failing to meet multi-functional testing requirements.

Method used

A flexible quick connector with detection function was designed. By setting airflow channels, fasteners and sensors in the first and second test pieces, it can realize simple positioning and airtightness detection of the docking pipe, and at the same time detect whether the position of the dust plug is accurate.

Benefits of technology

It simplifies the assembly process of connecting pipes, improves the efficiency of airtightness testing, can automatically identify the assembly status of dust plugs, and meets multi-functional testing needs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The application discloses a flexible quick connector with a detection function and a detection method thereof, and the quick connector comprises a first test piece, a second test piece detachably assembled with the first test piece, a buckle piece elastically separating the abutting surface of the first test piece and the second test piece, and a sensor installed on the end surface of the first test piece; the first test piece and the second test piece are internally provided with a through airflow channel for air tightness detection; the buckle piece is internally provided with a buckle opening for adjusting the cross-sectional area of the airflow channel and limiting the butt joint pipeline; and the first test piece is internally provided with a detection hole communicating the sensor and the airflow channel. When the butt joint pipeline is inserted into the quick connector, the buckle piece positioning operation is more simple and convenient, the air tightness detection function can be realized, the position of the dustproof plug assembled on the butt joint pipeline can be detected, the quick connector is optimized in the assembled structure, and the multifunctional test requirement is met.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of pipeline connection technology, and in particular relates to a flexible quick connector with detection function and its detection method. Background Technology

[0002] Quick couplings are widely used in automotive fuel lines. Leakage testing of these lines is a critical performance test, affecting the vehicle's main functions. Traditional leak testing fixtures are developed according to the product's shape, making test changeovers cumbersome.

[0003] An existing application (CN202120609894.X) discloses an easy-install quick coupling, including a main body that mates with a connecting pipe. The main body has fixing grooves on both sides that connect to its interior for embedding elastic clips. The connecting pipe is fixed in the main body by the elastic clips, enabling rapid assembly. To ensure the stability of the pipe insertion, the clamping accuracy of the elastic clips must be guaranteed. The clamping opening of the elastic clips cannot be too narrow or too loose, posing a challenge to achieving the required assembly accuracy.

[0004] An existing application (CN201520606856.3) discloses a fully assembled quick coupling, which features a locking mechanism that allows for further downward pressing only after the connecting pipes are fully assembled. This quick coupling uses a locking mechanism with multiple locking parts to achieve a crimping action on the connecting pipes. To apply or remove the crimping force on the connecting pipes, the locking mechanism requires insertion and removal, and must be pressed firmly to ensure proper crimping. This places relatively stringent requirements on the operator's skills.

[0005] Existing patent application CN202122479553.8 discloses a quick connector with a detection function, in which a temperature sensor is installed inside the mounting cavity of the adapter. The sensor is used to detect the temperature of the medium flowing within the quick connector. The sensor is located inside the adapter, eliminating the need for a separate mechanism or branch pipe for sensor installation, resulting in low cost and ease of use. The purpose of incorporating the sensor in this quick connector is to detect the temperature of the flowing medium. A sheath protects the portion of the temperature sensor located outside the adapter. For the external wiring of the sensor, there is no need to consider excessive assembly location factors, even if the external portion of the sensor may occupy some space.

[0006] Therefore, for a type of pipe that can both detect whether its assembled components are properly assembled and facilitate the implementation and operation of the snap-fit ​​connection, a suitable quick coupling is needed to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to solve the aforementioned technical problems by providing a flexible quick connector with detection functions and a detection method thereof. This simplifies and facilitates the positioning of the snap-fit ​​components when connecting quick connectors to pipes, allows for simultaneous airtightness testing and verification of the accuracy of the dust plug placement on the pipe. The quick connector's assembly structure is optimized to meet multi-functional testing requirements. To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this invention is as follows:

[0008] A flexible quick connector with detection function includes a first test piece, a second test piece that can be detachably assembled with the first test piece, a snap fastener that elastically separates the contact surfaces of the first and second test pieces, and a sensor installed on the end face of the first test piece; the first and second test pieces are provided with a through airflow channel for airtightness detection, the snap fastener is provided with a bayonet that adjusts the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel and limits the connection of the pipe, and the first test piece is provided with a detection hole that connects the sensor and the airflow channel.

[0009] Specifically, the connecting pipe includes a pipe body, a limiting plug located at the end of the pipe body, and a dust plug located behind the limiting plug and fitted onto the pipe body.

[0010] Specifically, the limiting plug has a conical ring, with the smaller diameter end of the conical ring facing the end of the pipe body and the larger diameter end of the conical ring facing the dust plug; the dust plug includes an annular body and several spacers disposed on the end face of the annular body and surrounding the connecting pipe.

[0011] Specifically, one end face of the first test piece is provided with a docking groove, the airflow channel is provided through the bottom of the docking groove, the port of the airflow channel is provided with a limiting ring at the bottom of the docking groove, the flange of the annular body is correspondingly abutted and fitted with the docking groove, and the inner circumference of the annular body is fitted with the outer circumference of the limiting ring for limiting.

[0012] Specifically, a set of sensors are installed on both sides of the docking groove. The end face of the first test piece is provided with a mounting groove for accommodating the sensors. The groove wall of the mounting groove is provided with a detection hole that penetrates the first test piece and extends into the groove wall of the docking groove. The set of detection holes are kept in the same straight line direction. The limiting ring is provided with a set of light-transmitting holes that penetrate the set of detection holes along the same straight line.

[0013] Specifically, the inner wall of the airflow channel in the second test piece is provided with multiple seals, and the docking pipe and the airflow channel are sealed and connected by multiple seals.

[0014] Specifically, the airflow channel has an access groove on the end face of the second test piece, and the limiting plug of the docking pipe is accommodated in the access groove.

[0015] Specifically, the fastener includes a straight plate portion and baffle portions symmetrically arranged at both ends of the straight plate portion; the straight plate portion is provided with a latch, the latch having a first arc-shaped portion with a larger opening at one end and a second arc-shaped portion with a smaller opening at the other end, the opening size of the second arc-shaped portion being smaller than the slot size of the access groove.

[0016] Specifically, the first test piece is provided with a guide post on its exterior to limit the movement distance of the baffle portion, and an elastic element is clamped between the guide post and the corresponding baffle portion.

[0017] A testing method for flexible quick connectors with testing capabilities includes the following steps:

[0018] The connecting pipe is provided, and the connecting pipe kit includes a dust plug and a limit plug;

[0019] A quick connector is provided, which has an airflow channel for detecting the airtightness of the connected pipe. The quick connector is provided with a snap fastener that can adjust the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel. A sensor is provided in the airflow channel to detect whether its internal space is blocked.

[0020] The sealing insert of the docking pipe is inserted into the airflow channel, and the snap fastener is positioned and limited by the force, so that the limit plug is limited in the airflow channel. The airflow channel is used to supply airflow to the docking pipe for air tightness testing.

[0021] The port of the airflow channel is connected to the dust plug of the docking pipe. The sensor detects whether the dust plug is inside the airflow channel to determine whether the dust plug is properly assembled.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the flexible quick connector with detection function and its detection method of the present invention are mainly reflected in:

[0023] When connecting quick-connect couplings to pipes, the snap-fit ​​positioning operation is simpler and easier to operate. It can perform airtightness testing while checking whether the position of the dust plug on the pipe is accurate. The quick-connect coupling has been redesigned with an optimized assembly structure to meet multi-functional testing requirements. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the entire embodiment;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the front structure of the first test piece in this embodiment;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the reverse side structure of the first test piece in this embodiment;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the buckle fitting with the second test piece in this embodiment;

[0029] Figure 6 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the docking pipe structure in this embodiment;

[0030] Figure 7 This is the second schematic diagram of the docking pipe structure in this embodiment;

[0031] The numbers in the diagram represent:

[0032] 1 First test piece, 11 Docking groove, 12 Limiting ring, 13 Mounting groove, 14 Light-transmitting hole, 15 Fixing groove, 2 Second test piece, 21 Fixing part, 22 Mounting hole, 23 Access groove, 3 Buckle, 31 Bayonet, 32 Straight plate part, 33 Baffle part, 34 First arc-shaped part, 35 Second arc-shaped part, 4 Sensor, 41 Detection hole, 5 Airflow channel, 51 Sealing element, 52 Air inlet pipe, 6 Docking pipe, 61 Dust plug, 611 Ring body, 612 Spacing plate, 613 Flange, 62 Pipe body, 63 Limiting plug, 64 Chamfered ring, 65 Conical ring, 7 Guide post, 71 Elastic element. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.

[0034] Example 1:

[0035] Reference Figure 1-7 As shown, this embodiment is a flexible quick connector with detection function, including a first test piece 1, a second test piece 2 that is detachably assembled with the first test piece 1, a snap fastener 3 that elastically separates the contact surfaces of the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2, and a sensor 4 installed on the end face of the first test piece 1. An airflow channel 5 for airtightness detection is provided inside the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2. The snap fastener 3 has a locking slot 31 that adjusts the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel 5 and limits the connection to the connecting pipe 6. The first test piece 1 has a detection hole 41 inside that connects the sensor 4 and the airflow channel 5.

[0036] The first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 are assembled as a single structure, allowing the mating pipe 6 to be tested to be inserted into the airflow channel 5 for airtightness testing. Depending on ease of assembly, the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 can be configured as two separate parts or as a single integrated structure. The assembly mating surfaces of the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 form a cavity for mounting the fastener 3. When the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 are a single integrated structure, this cavity extends radially through the entire structure. The fastener 3 can slide smoothly and elastically within the cavity, thereby adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel 5.

[0037] In this embodiment, the connecting pipe 6 is an aluminum engine oil cooling pipe. Coolant is transported to the engine radiator through the connecting pipe 6, thereby cooling the engine. To ensure that the connecting pipe 6 has a dustproof function at the location where it is installed on the engine radiator, a dust plug 61 is added to the connecting pipe 6 on the production line. The connecting pipe 6 with the dust plug 61 is then transferred to the airtightness testing station. The airtightness testing station needs to have the function of testing the airtightness of the connecting pipe 6, as well as checking whether the dust plug 61 on the connecting pipe 6 is assembled properly and whether there are any missing ones.

[0038] The connecting pipe 6 includes a pipe body 62, a limiting plug 63 located at the end of the pipe body 62, and a dust plug 61 located behind the limiting plug 63 and fitted onto the pipe body 62. The end of the pipe body 62 has a chamfered ring 64, making it easy to insert the pipe body 62 into its assembly position. The limiting plug 63 has a conical ring 65, with the smaller diameter end of the conical ring 65 facing the end of the pipe body 62 and the larger diameter end facing the dust plug 61. Similarly, the structure of the conical ring 65 facilitates the insertion and positioning of the pipe body 62 along the airflow channel 5. The dust plug 61 includes an annular body 611 and several spacers 612 circumferentially surrounding the connecting pipe 6 on the end face of the annular body 611. The dust plug 61 is made of plastic and has a certain degree of deformation resistance. Several spacers 612 converge to form a sleeve that tightly grips the outer wall of the connecting pipe 6. When the annular body 611 is assembled into the hole of the engine radiator, the spacers 612 serve as dustproof within the hole. The annular body 611 has flanges 613 on both ends. When the annular body 611 is inserted into the hole of the engine radiator, the flanges 613 at both ends limit its insertion within the hole, achieving a stable insertion state and providing a sealing effect.

[0039] In this embodiment, the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 are designed as cylindrical structures according to usage requirements. The docking pipe 6 is conventionally a circular pipe, and the airflow channel 5 is correspondingly designed as a circular channel. A docking groove 11 is provided on one end face of the first test piece 1. The airflow channel 5 is set through the bottom of the docking groove 11, and a limiting ring 12 is provided at the bottom of the docking groove 11 at the port of the airflow channel 5. The axial distance of the limiting ring 12 is not greater than the axial distance of the docking groove 11. The flange 613 of the annular body 611 abuts against the docking groove 11, and the inner circumference of the annular body 611 is fitted and limited to the outer circumference of the limiting ring 12. The function of the limiting ring 12 is to ensure that the dust plug 61 is correctly installed on the docking pipe 6. When the dust plug 61 is installed backwards, the limiting ring 12 abuts against one side of the partition 612, preventing the dust plug 61 from being installed into the docking groove 11, thus indicating that the dust plug 61 is installed incorrectly.

[0040] To automate the determination of whether the dust plug 61 is missing or installed backwards, a sensor 4 is installed on the end face of the first test piece 1. This sensor 4 is a set of sensors with both light emission and light reception functions, and the set of sensors 4 is installed on both sides of the docking groove 11. The end face of the first test piece 1 has a mounting groove 13 for accommodating the sensor 4. The groove wall of the mounting groove 13 has a detection hole 41 that penetrates the first test piece 1 and extends into the groove wall of the docking groove 11. The set of detection holes 41 are kept in the same straight line direction. The limiting ring 12 has a set of light-transmitting holes 14 that penetrate the set of detection holes 41 in the same straight line. The emitting end of one sensor 4 enters the receiving end of another sensor 4 through the detection hole 41 and the light-transmitting hole 14, and the set of sensors 4 achieves interconnected detection. When the dust plug 61 is accurately inserted into the docking groove 11, the detection hole 41 and the light-transmitting hole 14 are separated, and a set of sensors 4 cannot be interconnected, thus determining that the dust plug 61 is properly assembled with the docking pipe 6. Similarly, when the dust plug 61 fails to be inserted into the docking groove 11, a set of sensors 4 can be interconnected, thus determining that the dust plug 61 is poorly assembled. The sensor 4 is embedded in the end face of the first test piece 1, with a precise assembly position, which can identify the assembly of the dust plug 61 connected to the docking pipe 6 at the port of the airflow channel 5, eliminating the trouble of manual judgment. The quick connector adds an extra detection function, reduces the number of detection stations, and cleverly combines the assembly detection of the dust plug 61 and the airtightness detection of the docking pipe 6 into the same structure, effectively combining the detection structures of the original two stations, greatly improving the detection efficiency and simplifying the complex multi-station design.

[0041] The first test piece 1 has a fixing groove 15 extending through its upper and lower ends on its end face away from the docking groove 11. The end face of the second test piece 2 has a fixing part 21 corresponding to the fixing groove 15. The fixing part 21 and the fixing groove 15 are inserted into each other to form a cavity for accommodating the fastener 3. The end face of the first test piece 1 and the end face of the second test piece 2 are fitted and abutted together. The first test piece 1 has several mounting holes 22 that penetrate its interior and enter the second test piece 2. The first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 are locked and fixed in place by mounting parts in the mounting holes 22. In this embodiment, the mounting parts can be screws.

[0042] An inlet groove 23 is provided on the end face of the airflow channel 5 located in the second test piece 2. Multiple sealing elements 51 are provided on the inner wall of the airflow channel 5 within the second test piece 2. In this embodiment, the sealing element 51 is a sealing ring. The connecting pipe 6 and the airflow channel 5 are sealed and inserted together through the multiple sealing elements 51. The limiting plug 63 of the connecting pipe 6 is housed within the inlet groove 23. The larger diameter end face of the limiting plug 63 is flush with the opening of the inlet groove 23. The limiting plug 63, within the inlet groove 23, can position the connecting pipe 6, thereby limiting the depth to which the connecting pipe 6 is inserted into the second test piece 2.

[0043] The second test piece 2 has an air inlet pipe 52 on the end face opposite to the access groove 23, which is connected to the airflow channel 5. The air inlet pipe 52 is connected to a pressure testing device. When the docking pipe 6 is sealed and connected to the airflow channel 5, the airflow is sent into the docking pipe 6 through the air inlet pipe 52. The pressure testing device automatically performs an airtightness test, thereby determining whether the docking pipe 6 meets the test standards.

[0044] The fastener 3 includes a straight plate portion 32 and baffle portions 33 symmetrically arranged at both ends of the straight plate portion 32. The straight plate portion 32 is provided with a latch 31, which has a first arc-shaped portion 34 with a larger opening at one end and a second arc-shaped portion 35 with a smaller opening at the other end. The width of the straight plate portion 32 corresponds to the width of the fixing portion 21. The straight plate portion 32 can slide freely in the cavity without being interfered with by the fixing portion 21 or the fixing groove 15. The opening size of the second arc-shaped part 35 is smaller than the groove size of the access groove 23. When the arc-shaped bottom edge of the second arc-shaped part 35 corresponds to the circumferential bottom edge of the access groove 23, the arc-shaped edges extending upward on both sides of the second arc-shaped part 35 are within the port space of the access groove 23. As the latch 31 moves up and down, the second arc-shaped part 35 adjusts and changes the cross-sectional area of ​​the access groove 23. The second arc-shaped part 35 is engaged and limited by the limiting plug 63. The arc-shaped edges on both sides of the second arc-shaped part 35 are limited and abut against the larger diameter end face of the conical ring 65. When the fastener 3 is adjusted to the position, that is, when the second arc-shaped part 35 is at the circumferential bottom edge of the access groove 23, the fastener 3 is engaged and the limiting plug 63 cannot be removed from the internal space of the access groove 23. The fastener 3 plays the role of limiting the connection of the pipe 6.

[0045] The straight plate part 32 and the baffle part 33 are integrally connected, but not limited to an integral connection. The connection between the baffle part 33 and the straight plate part 32 is a right-angle bend structure. The baffle part 33 serves to limit the upward and downward movement distance of the straight plate part 32. Therefore, the connection between the baffle part 33 and the straight plate part 32 is not limited to a right-angle bend structure. Alternatively, the straight plate part 32 and the baffle part 33 can be detachably connected.

[0046] The first test piece 1 has a guide post 7 on its exterior to limit the movement distance of the baffle part 33. The position of the guide post 7 is set according to the bending direction of the baffle part 33. When the baffle part 33 faces the first test piece 1, the guide post 7 is set on the first test piece 1; when the baffle part 33 faces the second test piece 2, the guide post 7 is set on the second test piece 2. An elastic element 71 is clamped between the guide post 7 and the corresponding baffle part 33. In this embodiment, the elastic element 71 is a spring. This realizes the elastic extension and retraction of the buckle 3. In the normal state, the baffle part 33 located at the lower part of the straight plate part 32 abuts against the bottom end of the first test piece 1, and the second arc-shaped part 35 of the latch 31 limits the limiting plug 61 of the docking pipe 6 to prevent it from falling off. When the elastic element 71 is moved by pressure, the baffle part 44 located at the lower part of the straight plate part 43 disengages from the first test piece 2, and the first arc-shaped part 34 of the latch 31 corresponds to the position of the insertion groove 23 and loosens the docking pipe 6. The flexible fastener 3 enables very quick positioning and docking of the pipe 6 without the need for repeated manual confirmation of whether the fastener 3 is properly engaged. When the external pressure on the fastener 3 is removed, the fastener 3 is naturally limited by the elastic force of the elastic element 71 to the back of the limiting plug 63 of the docking pipe 6, preventing the limiting plug 63 from retracting and falling out of the airflow channel 5.

[0047] In this embodiment, the cavity is located in the space formed by the contact of the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2. The cavity is a through structure. Since the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 are both cylindrical or near-cylindrical structures, the cavity can be adaptively arranged at any diameter direction position of the first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2. It is necessary to ensure that the bayonet 31 is always corresponding to the access groove 23. The second arc-shaped part 35 of the bayonet 31 can move and interfere with the groove opening of the access groove 23, which can play the role of limiting the limiting plug 63 of the connecting pipe 6.

[0048] When applying this embodiment, the positioning operation of the snap-fit ​​3 is simpler and easier when the quick connector is inserted into the connecting pipe 6. It allows for simultaneous airtightness testing and checks the accuracy of the dust plug 61 mounted on the connecting pipe 6. The quick connector's assembly structure is optimized to meet multi-functional testing requirements. The first test piece 1 and the second test piece 2 are assembled as a single unit or disassembled. The snap-fit ​​3 is movably positioned within the cavity. The elasticity of the snap-fit ​​3 adjusts the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel 5, thus controlling the airflow of the connecting pipe 6. The flow channel 5 can achieve snap-fit ​​limiting. In this embodiment, the precision of the snap-fit ​​part 31 is easier to control and form. Compared with the traditional snap-fit ​​structure, which requires controlling the opening and closing precision of the clamp and considering the durability of long-term use, in this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​part 3 cooperates with the limiting plug 63 of the docking pipe 6. The elastic force of the elastic element 71 can ensure that the snap-fit ​​part 31 and the limiting plug 63 play a role in preventing detachment. There is no need to consider the deformation problem of the snap-fit ​​part 31 after long-term use. Similarly, when the docking pipe 6 is detached from the snap-fit ​​part 3, pressing the snap-fit ​​part 3 can easily open it. The disconnection of the connecting pipe 6 from the airflow channel 5 and the removal of the fastener 3 are easily achieved. A sensor 4 is installed inside the first test piece 1, adding an extra function to the quick connector to detect whether the dust plug 61 is properly assembled. This integrates different detection processes into one structure, greatly improving detection efficiency and reducing unnecessary workstation setups. The first test piece 1 has a connecting groove 11 and a limiting ring 12, which can accurately filter out connecting pipes 6 with the dust plug 61 installed backwards. The sensor 4 can automatically identify problems with the dust plug 61 being installed backwards or missing. Utilizing the structural characteristics of the first test piece 1, the sensor 4 is embedded in the end face of the first test piece 1, saving installation space. Simultaneously, the clever combination of the detection hole 41 and the light-transmitting hole 14 can identify the assembly position of the dust plug 61 fitted into the connecting pipe 6 within the airflow channel 5 without affecting the airtightness detection of the airflow channel 5. The design concept is very unique, and the overall quick connector has strong application capabilities, allowing for movable connection to the connecting pipe 6 to be tested. One quick connector achieves two detection functions.

[0049] Example 2:

[0050] The detection method for a flexible quick connector with detection function, implemented using the flexible quick connector with detection function in Example 1, includes the following steps:

[0051] A docking pipe 6 is provided, which is equipped with a dust plug 61 and a limiting plug 63;

[0052] Provide quick couplings, which have airflow channels 5 for detecting the airtightness of the connected pipe 6, and fasteners 3 for adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channels 5. Sensors 4 for detecting whether the internal space of the airflow channels 5 is blocked are installed inside the airflow channels 5.

[0053] The sealing insert of the docking pipe 6 is inserted into the airflow channel 5. The snap fastener 3 is positioned and limited by the force, so that the limit plug 63 is limited in the airflow channel 5. The airflow channel 5 is supplied with airflow to the docking pipe 6 for air tightness testing.

[0054] The port of the airflow channel 5 is connected to the dust plug 61 of the docking pipe 6. The sensor 4 detects whether the dust plug 61 is in the airflow channel 5 to determine whether the dust plug 61 is assembled in place. When the sensor 4 does not detect the dust plug 61, it indicates that the dust plug 61 is installed backwards or missing.

[0055] In the description of this invention, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0056] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0057] While the embodiments disclosed in this invention are as described above, the content is merely for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Any person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may make any modifications and changes to the form and details of the implementation without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein; however, the scope of patent protection of this invention shall still be determined by the scope defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A flexible quick connector with detection function, characterized in that: The device includes a first test piece, a second test piece that is detachably assembled with the first test piece, a snap fastener that elastically separates the contact surfaces of the first and second test pieces, and a sensor mounted on the end face of the first test piece. The first and second test pieces are provided with a through airflow channel for airtightness detection. The snap fastener has a locking opening that adjusts the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel and limits the connection of the pipe. The first test piece has a detection hole inside that connects the sensor and the airflow channel.

2. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting pipe includes a pipe body, a limiting plug located at the end of the pipe body, and a dust plug located behind the limiting plug and fitted onto the pipe body.

3. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 2, characterized in that: The limiting plug has a conical ring, with the smaller diameter end of the conical ring facing the end of the pipe body and the larger diameter end of the conical ring facing the dust plug; the dust plug includes an annular body and several partitions disposed on the end face of the annular body and surrounding the connecting pipe.

4. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first test piece has a docking groove on one side end face. The airflow channel is set through the bottom of the docking groove. The port of the airflow channel is located at the bottom of the docking groove and is provided with a limiting ring. The flange of the annular body is correspondingly abutted and fitted with the docking groove. The inner circumference of the annular body is fitted with the outer circumference of the limiting ring for limiting.

5. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 4, characterized in that: A set of sensors are installed on both sides of the docking groove. The end face of the first test piece is provided with a mounting groove for accommodating the sensors. The groove wall of the mounting groove is provided with a detection hole that penetrates the first test piece and extends into the groove wall of the docking groove. The set of detection holes are kept in the same straight line direction. The limiting ring is provided with a set of light-transmitting holes that penetrate the set of detection holes along the same straight line.

6. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner wall of the airflow channel in the second test piece is provided with multiple seals, and the docking pipe and the airflow channel are sealed and connected by multiple seals.

7. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 2, characterized in that: The airflow channel is provided with an access groove on the end face of the second test piece, and the limiting plug of the docking pipe is accommodated in the access groove.

8. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 7, characterized in that: The fastener includes a straight plate portion and baffle portions symmetrically arranged at both ends of the straight plate portion; the straight plate portion is provided with a latch, the latch having a first arc-shaped portion with a larger opening at one end and a second arc-shaped portion with a smaller opening at the other end, the opening size of the second arc-shaped portion being smaller than the slot size of the access groove.

9. The flexible quick connector with detection function according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first test piece is provided with a guide post on its exterior to limit the movement distance of the baffle portion, and an elastic element is clamped between the guide post and the corresponding baffle portion.

10. A method for detecting a flexible quick coupling with detection function, comprising the quick coupling as described in any one of claims 1-9 and the mating pipe, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The connecting pipe is provided, and the connecting pipe kit includes a dust plug and a limit plug; A quick connector is provided, which has an airflow channel for detecting the airtightness of the connected pipe. The quick connector is provided with a snap fastener that can adjust the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow channel. A sensor is provided in the airflow channel to detect whether its internal space is blocked. The sealing insert of the docking pipe is inserted into the airflow channel, and the snap fastener is positioned and limited by the force, so that the limit plug is limited in the airflow channel. The airflow channel is used to supply airflow to the docking pipe for air tightness testing. The port of the airflow channel is connected to the dust plug of the docking pipe. The sensor detects whether the dust plug is inside the airflow channel to determine whether the dust plug is properly assembled.