An adapter, connector and connector assembly

Abstract

This invention relates to an adapter, connector, and connector assembly, comprising: a body having a mating cavity therein, and the body also having a sliding groove extending radially therein, the sliding groove communicating with the mating cavity; a sliding protrusion confined within the sliding groove, the sliding groove being configured to allow the sliding protrusion to slide radially within the sliding groove of the body; when a connector is inserted into the mating cavity, the sliding protrusion, relying on its own elasticity, drives itself to radially insert into a locking groove of the connector; when the connector is axially withdrawn, the connector drives the sliding protrusion to radially compress and move out of the locking groove of the connector. Compared to methods using elastic cantilever arms, the adapter of this embodiment has a higher locking force, which can meet the needs of outdoor use environments.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of optical fiber communication technology, and in particular to an adapter, connector, and connector assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, how to achieve higher speed and capacity transmission within a limited space is a persistent challenge for network equipment manufacturers. High-density deployment is the most direct solution, such as reducing the size of connectors, adapters, and optical modules, increasing the number of cores, and deploying more modules and connectors in a limited space.

[0003] In related technologies, some connectors and adapters need to meet the requirements of outdoor use. However, the locking force between the adapter and the connector is insufficient, and the connector is prone to detaching from the adapter in complex outdoor environments. For example, some adapters and connectors are locked by the interaction of an elastic cantilever and a protrusion. The elastic cantilever is in a suspended state and has a certain degree of elasticity, making it easy to deform elastically, which makes it easy to assemble the adapter and connector together. However, with the elastic cantilever locking method, the elastic cantilever can also easily loosen from the protrusion, resulting in insufficient locking force between the connector and the adapter.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to design a new adapter, connector, and connector assembly to overcome the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides an adapter, a connector, and a connector assembly to solve the problem in the related art of insufficient locking force between the adapter and the connector, which makes the connector easy to detach from the adapter.

[0006] In a first aspect, an adapter is provided, comprising: a body having a mating cavity therein, the body further having a sliding groove extending radially therein, the sliding groove communicating with the mating cavity; a sliding protrusion confined within the sliding groove, the sliding groove being configured such that the sliding protrusion can slide within the sliding groove in the radial direction of the body; when a connector is inserted into the mating cavity, the sliding protrusion is driven by its own elasticity to radially insert into a locking groove of the connector; when the connector is axially withdrawn, the connector drives the sliding protrusion to radially compress and move out of the locking groove of the connector.

[0007] In some embodiments, the sliding protrusion includes a sliding locking block and an elastic deformation structure integrally disposed on the sliding locking block. The elastic deformation structure is disposed on the side of the sliding locking block away from the axis of the body, and the elastic deformation structure provides an elastic force to drive the sliding locking block to move radially.

[0008] In some embodiments, the elastic deformation structure includes an elastic arm, one end of which is connected to the sliding locking block, and the elastic arm extends obliquely from the connection point with the sliding locking block.

[0009] In some embodiments, each of the elastic arms has a protrusion at its free end, the protrusion protruding away from the sliding locking block.

[0010] In some embodiments, a plug-in guide surface is provided on one side of the sliding locking block, and a foolproof part is provided on the other side of the sliding locking block. The foolproof part and the plug-in guide surface are respectively provided on opposite sides of the sliding locking block.

[0011] In some embodiments, the sliding locking block has an unlocking protrusion on the side near the insertion cavity, the unlocking protrusion extending radially beyond the bottom surface of the sliding locking block, and the unlocking protrusion is located at the edge of the sliding locking block.

[0012] In some embodiments, limiting surfaces are provided on opposite sides of the sliding protrusion, and a limiting part that cooperates with the limiting surface is provided in the sliding groove. The limiting part contacts the limiting surface to limit the depth of the sliding protrusion protruding into the insertion cavity.

[0013] In some embodiments, a plug-in guide surface is provided on one side of the sliding protrusion, and a cut is provided on the other side of the sliding protrusion. The cut and the plug-in guide surface are respectively provided on opposite sides of the sliding protrusion, and the sidewall surface of the cut forms a radial locking surface.

[0014] In some embodiments, the main body includes: a clamping body having the insertion cavity inside and the clamping body having the sliding groove extending radially through the clamping body; and a rear sleeve fitted outside the clamping body, the rear sleeve at least partially blocking the sliding groove.

[0015] Secondly, a connector is provided for cooperating with the aforementioned adapter, the connector including a body having a locking groove for engaging with a sliding protrusion of the adapter for locking.

[0016] Thirdly, a connector assembly is provided, comprising the adapter described above and the connector described above that mates with the adapter.

[0017] The beneficial effects of the technical solution provided by this invention include:

[0018] This invention provides an adapter, a connector, and a connector assembly. Because the main body is provided with a sliding groove extending in the radial direction, the sliding protrusion in the sliding groove can move radially into the insertion cavity under the action of its own elasticity and be inserted and locked with the connector. The elasticity of the sliding protrusion itself will cause the adapter and the connector to lock together, making it difficult for the adapter and the connector to separate. Moreover, when the connector separates from the adapter, it is necessary to drive the sliding protrusion to move a certain distance radially before it can be unlocked. Therefore, compared with the method of setting an elastic cantilever, the adapter locking force of this embodiment is higher. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of an adapter provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0022] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the structure of a sliding protrusion in the adapter provided in this embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Figure 4 A radial cross-sectional view of the adapter provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the sliding protrusion provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 A schematic axial cross-sectional view of the adapter provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the connector initially entering the adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connector after contacting the sliding protrusion according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector when it is inserted into the locking groove and aligned with the sliding protrusion, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure for locking the sliding protrusion with the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the connector being pulled outwards to unlock according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the connector provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] In the picture:

[0033] 100. Adapter;

[0034] 1. Main body; 11. Insertion cavity; 12. Sliding groove; 13. Clamping body; 131. Rear end face; 132. Second guide surface; 133. Locking block; 134. Bonding part;

[0035] 14. Rear sleeve; 141. Step; 1411. First annular surface; 1412. Second annular surface; 142. First guide surface; 143. Boss; 144. Groove;

[0036] 2. Sliding protrusion; 21. Sliding locking block; 211. Insertion guide surface; 212. Foolproof part; 213. Unlocking protrusion; 214. Radial locking surface;

[0037] 22. Elastic deformation structure; 221. Elastic arm; 222. Convex hull; 23. Limiting surface;

[0038] 3. Ceramic sleeve; 4. Sealing groove; 5. Sealing ring; 6. Elastic locking structure; 61. Locking groove;

[0039] 200. Connector; 201. Body; 202. Locking slot; 203. Outer casing; 204. Unlocking slot. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] This invention provides an adapter, a connector, and a connector assembly, which can solve the problem in related technologies of insufficient locking force between the adapter and the connector, and the connector easily detaching from the adapter.

[0042] See Figures 1 to 3As shown, an adapter 100 provided in an embodiment of the present invention may include: a main body 1, wherein a plug-in cavity 11 is provided in the main body 1 for a connector 200 to be inserted; the main body 1 may also be provided with a sliding groove 12 extending radially therefrom, the sliding groove 12 communicating with the plug-in cavity 11; and a sliding protrusion 2, the sliding protrusion 2 being confined within the sliding groove 12. It is understood that the sliding groove 12 can limit the sliding protrusion 2, preventing the sliding protrusion 2 from disengaging from the sliding groove 12, and the sliding groove 12 is configured such that the sliding protrusion 2 can move within the sliding groove 12 along the radial direction of the main body 1. The sliding groove 12 is longer than the sliding protrusion 2 in the radial direction, allowing the sliding protrusion 2 to slide within a certain range in the sliding groove 12. When the connector 200 is inserted into the insertion cavity 11, the sliding protrusion 2 can be driven by its own elasticity to insert itself radially into the locking groove 202 of the connector 200. It can be understood that the sliding protrusion 2 has a certain elasticity and can drive itself to move by its own elasticity. When the connector 200 is pulled out axially, the connector 200 drives the sliding protrusion 2 to compress radially and move out of the locking groove 202 of the connector 200.

[0043] In this embodiment, since the main body 1 is provided with a sliding groove 12 extending in the radial direction, the sliding protrusion 2 in the sliding groove 12 can move radially into the insertion cavity 11 under the action of its own elastic force and be inserted and locked with the connector 200. That is, the elastic force of the sliding protrusion 2 itself will cause the adapter 100 to lock with the connector 200, and will not cause the adapter 100 to disengage from the connector 200. When the connector 200 disengages from the adapter 100, it needs to drive the sliding protrusion 2 to move a certain distance radially before it can be unlocked. Compared with the method of setting an elastic cantilever, the connector 200 in this embodiment is not locked with the adapter 100 by setting an elastic cantilever, but is set with a locking groove 202. It does not have the elastic force of an elastic cantilever and will not be easy to unlock with the adapter 100. Moreover, the elastic force of the sliding protrusion 2 in the adapter 100 will drive the adapter 100 to lock with the connector 200, rather than drive the adapter 100 to disengage from the connector 200. Therefore, the locking force of the adapter 100 provided in this embodiment is higher.

[0044] Furthermore, the sliding bump 2 in this embodiment can be driven to move by its own elasticity. Compared with setting other metal springs to drive the sliding bump 2 to move, the sliding bump 2 using plastic parts provides fewer elastic parts and is less expensive.

[0045] See Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the sliding protrusion 2 may include a sliding locking block 21 and an elastic deformation structure 22 integrally formed on the sliding locking block 21. The elastic deformation structure 22 is integrally formed with the sliding locking block 21 and can undergo elastic deformation. The elastic deformation structure 22 is located on the side of the sliding locking block 21 away from the axis of the main body 1, and the elastic deformation structure 22 provides a spring force to drive the sliding locking block 21 to move radially. In this embodiment, since the elastic deformation structure 22 is located on the side of the sliding locking block 21 away from the axis of the main body 1, after the elastic deformation structure 22 undergoes elastic deformation, it can push the sliding locking block 21 toward the axis of the main body 1, so that the sliding locking block 21 gradually extends into the insertion cavity 11 and locks with the connector 200.

[0046] Furthermore, in some optional embodiments, the elastic deformation structure 22 includes an elastic arm 221, one end of which is connected to the sliding locking block 21, and the elastic arm 221 extends obliquely from the connection point with the sliding locking block 21. Preferably, the elastic deformation structure 22 may include at least two elastic arms 221, which are respectively connected to opposite ends of the sliding locking block 21, and the two elastic arms 221 extend obliquely from the connection point with the sliding locking block 21 in a direction toward each other. It is understood that the sliding locking block 21 can be elongated, and the two elastic arms 221 can be distributed along the length of the sliding locking block 21. The root of the elastic arm 221 is connected to the end of the sliding locking block 21. While the elastic arm 221 extends towards each other, it also extends away from the axis of the main body 1, so that the elastic arm 221 extends in an inclined manner. The two elastic arms 221 are distributed at opposite ends of the sliding locking block 21, which is conducive to pushing the entire sliding locking block 21 away from the elastic arm 221 from both ends of the elastic arm 221.

[0047] In this embodiment, the sliding locking block 21 is provided with two elastic arms 221, which are symmetrically arranged about the central axis of the sliding locking block 21. In other embodiments, one, three, four, or more elastic arms 221 may also be provided. In some other embodiments, the elastic deformation structure 22 may not be a structure with elastic arms 221, but may be a structure with other elastic components, such as an elastic component with a length and width equal to the length and width of the sliding locking block 21.

[0048] Preferred, see Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, each of the elastic arms 221 can be provided with a protrusion 222 at its free end, the protrusion 222 protruding away from the sliding locking block 21. That is, the protrusion 222 protrudes from the surface of the elastic arm 221. In this embodiment, by providing the protrusion 222, the protrusion 222 can contact the inner wall surface of the main body 1, thereby supporting a certain gap between the elastic arm 221 and the inner wall surface of the main body 1, providing a larger deformation space for the deformation of the elastic arm 221. Of course, in other embodiments, the protrusion 222 can be omitted, and the tilt angle of the elastic arm 221 can be set to be larger, so that the free end of the elastic arm 221 contacts the inner wall surface of the main body 1. This can also support the elastic arm 221 to a certain height, so that a larger gap is formed between the position of the elastic arm 221 near the root and the inner wall surface of the main body 1.

[0049] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, a plug-in guide surface 211 may be provided on one side of the sliding locking block 21. The plug-in guide surface 211 extends at an angle and guides the connector 200 during insertion into the plug-in cavity 11. A foolproof part 212 is also provided on the other side of the sliding locking block 21. The foolproof part 212 and the plug-in guide surface 211 are respectively located on opposite sides of the sliding locking block 21. In this embodiment, by providing the foolproof part 212, during the process of installing the sliding protrusion 2 into the sliding groove 12, the foolproof part 212 can match the corresponding position on the main body 1 to prevent the plug-in guide surface 211 from being installed in the wrong direction.

[0050] The plug-in guide surface 211 can be an inclined surface or an arc surface. Of course, in other embodiments, the plug-in guide surface 211 may not be provided on the adapter, or it may be provided on the connector.

[0051] In some alternative embodiments, see Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the sliding locking block 21 may also be provided with an unlocking protrusion 213 on the side near the insertion cavity 11. In this embodiment, the main body 1 is provided with two sliding protrusions 2, each of which has the same structure, that is, each is provided with a sliding locking block 21. The two sliding protrusions 2 are symmetrically distributed vertically. The unlocking protrusion 213 is provided on the lowest surface of the upper sliding locking block 21 and on the top surface of the lower sliding locking block 21. The unlocking protrusion 213 extends radially beyond the bottom surface of the sliding locking block 21 and is located at the edge of the sliding locking block 21. Each sliding locking block 21 may be provided with one unlocking protrusion 213 or two unlocking protrusions 213, with the two unlocking protrusions 213 distributed on opposite sides of the sliding locking block 21. By providing the unlocking protrusions 213 protruding from the edge of the sliding locking block 21, it is easy for the unlocking protrusions 213 to match and unlock with the corresponding positions on the connector 200.

[0052] In some embodiments, see Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, limiting surfaces 23 can be provided on opposite sides of the sliding protrusion 2, and a limiting part that cooperates with the limiting surface 23 is provided in the sliding groove 12. The limiting part contacts the limiting surface 23 to limit the depth of the sliding protrusion 2 protruding into the insertion cavity 11. The limiting surface 23 can be a plane, an inclined surface, or a curved surface, etc. In this embodiment, by providing the limiting surface 23 and the limiting part, the maximum sliding distance of the sliding protrusion 2 can be limited, preventing the sliding boss 143 from disengaging from the sliding groove 12.

[0053] Preferably, one side of the sliding protrusion 2 is provided with an insertion guide surface 211, and the other side of the sliding protrusion 2 is provided with a cutout. The cutout and the insertion guide surface 211 are respectively provided on opposite sides of the sliding protrusion 2, and the sidewall of the cutout forms a radial locking surface 214. Figure 1 (As shown). The insertion guide surface 211 guides the insertion of the connector 200, while the notch is primarily for forming a radial locking surface 214. Since the sliding protrusion 2 engages and locks with the connector 200, the radial locking surface 214 is radially aligned, perpendicular to the pull-out direction of the connector 200, effectively preventing the connector 200 from being pulled out. Directly dragging the connector 200 makes it difficult to pull it out. The insertion guide surface 211 can be an inclined surface or an arc surface. In other embodiments, the insertion guide surface 211 may not be provided on the adapter, or it may be provided on the connector.

[0054] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the main body 1 may include: a clamping body 13, wherein the clamping body 13 is provided with the insertion cavity 11, and the clamping body 13 is provided with the sliding groove 12, the sliding groove 12 extending radially through the clamping body 13, that is, the sliding groove 12 is through the clamping body 13, so that the sliding protrusion 2 can be inserted into the sliding groove 12 from the through point; and a rear sleeve 14, the rear sleeve 14 being fitted over the clamping body 13, and the rear sleeve 14 at least partially blocking the outside of the sliding groove 12. That is, in this embodiment, the main body 1 is divided into two independently formed parts, and the sliding groove 12 extends vertically through the clamping body 13. After the sliding protrusion 2 is inserted into the sliding groove 12, the rear sleeve 14 can be fixed to the clamping body 13, so that the rear sleeve 14 blocks the outside of the sliding groove 12, preventing the sliding protrusion 2 from falling out of the sliding groove 12. This arrangement facilitates the installation of the sliding protrusion 2.

[0055] The front end of the rear sleeve 14 can be formed into a ring, which can be fitted onto the outside of the sliding groove 12. The protrusion 222 on the elastic arm 221 of the sliding protrusion 2 can contact the inner wall of the ring. When the connector 200 is inserted into the adapter 100, the connector 200 can push the upper sliding protrusion 2 upward and push the lower sliding protrusion 2 downward, so that the protrusion 222 on the sliding protrusion 2 contacts the inner wall of the ring. Under the pushing action of the connector 200, the elastic arm 221 is deformed. When the connector 200 is inserted into place, the elastic arm 221 drives the sliding locking block 21 to move and insert into the locking groove 202 of the connector 200 to lock.

[0056] Further, see Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the connector 200 may include a body 201 and an outer sleeve 203 sleeved outside the body 201. The locking groove 202 of the connector 200 may be provided on the body 201, while the outer sleeve 203 may be provided with an unlocking groove 204. The unlocking groove 204 is provided with an inclined surface, and a pull rope may be fixed on the outer sleeve 203. When the sliding locking block 21 is located in the locking groove 202, the unlocking protrusions 213 on both sides of the sliding locking block 21 may be located in the unlocking groove 204. By pulling the pull rope on the outer sleeve 203, the outer sleeve 203 can be moved outward. At the same time, the inclined surface in the unlocking groove 204 can drive the sliding locking block 21 to move away from the locking groove 202, thereby disengaging from the locking groove 202 and unlocking. However, simply pulling the body 201 of the connector 200 cannot unlock it.

[0057] The locking and unlocking process between the adapter 100 and the connector 200 provided in this embodiment of the invention is as follows:

[0058] See Figure 7As shown, when the connector 200 is initially inserted into the adapter 100, the connector 200 has not yet contacted the sliding locking block 21. The sliding locking block 21 will move into the insertion cavity 11 under the drive of the elastic arm 221.

[0059] See Figure 8 As shown, the connector 200 continues to be inserted into the insertion cavity 11. The front end of the connector 200 begins to contact the insertion guide surface 211 of the sliding locking block 21. During the gradual insertion process, the connector 200 gradually pushes the sliding locking block 21 away from the connector 200, and at the same time, the elastic arm 221 connected to the sliding locking block 21 deforms.

[0060] See Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the connector 200 is further inserted. When the connector 200 is inserted into place, the locking groove 202 of the connector 200 is directly opposite the sliding locking block 21 in the vertical direction. Under the force of the elastic arm 221, the sliding locking block 21 is driven to insert into the locking groove 202 and lock.

[0061] See Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, during unlocking, the outer sleeve 203 of the connector 200 is pulled back, and the inclined surface on the outer sleeve 203 gradually pushes up the sliding locking block 21, while compressing the elastic arm 221, driving the sliding locking block 21 to disengage from the locking groove 202, thereby unlocking the connector 200 from the adapter 100.

[0062] Furthermore, in some optional embodiments, see [link to documentation]. Figure 6 As shown, a ceramic sleeve 3 can be provided inside the clamping body 13, wherein a ferrule can be placed inside the ceramic sleeve 3 for mate-connecting the connectors 200 at both ends of the adapter 100; the rear sleeve 14 is detachably connected to the clamping body 13, that is, the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13 are not integrally formed, but are two independent parts that can be formed separately and then assembled together. The ends of the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13 that are close to each other together form a sealing groove 4. It can be understood that part of the inner wall of the sealing groove 4 is located on the rear sleeve 14 and part of the inner wall is located on the clamping body 13. The rear sleeve 14 or the clamping body 13 alone cannot form the complete sealing groove 4. The rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13 are combined to form a complete sealing groove 4, and the sealing groove 4 is located inside the clamping body 13 or the rear sleeve 14; and a sealing ring 5 is received inside the sealing groove 4.

[0063] The cross-sectional shape of the sealing groove 4 can be square, semi-circular, or other regular or irregular shapes.

[0064] In this embodiment, since the clamping body 13 and the rear sleeve 14 are detachably connected, the clamping body 13 and the rear sleeve 14 can be formed separately. The sealing groove 4 is formed by the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13 at their adjacent ends. It is not necessary to form a complete sealing groove 4 separately on the rear sleeve 14 or the clamping body 13; only a portion of the sealing groove 4 needs to be formed on the rear sleeve 14 or the clamping body 13. When forming the rear sleeve 14, only a portion of the sealing groove 4 needs to be formed; the other portion of the sealing groove 4 is disposed on the clamping body 13, and will not interfere with the axial direction. The axial mold opening of the rear sleeve 14 causes obstruction. When forming the clamping body 13, only a part of the sealing groove 4 needs to be formed. The other part of the sealing groove 4 is set on the rear sleeve 14, which will not obstruct the axial mold opening of the clamping body 13 in the axial direction. This allows both the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13 to open along the axial direction. At the same time, the formed sealing groove 4 is located inside the adapter 100, so that the sealing ring 5 is also located inside the adapter 100 after installation. This makes it less likely for the sealing ring 5 to be damaged or contaminated. Therefore, the overall sealing effect is better and it is easier to form.

[0065] See Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, a step 141 may be provided on the side of the rear sleeve 14 near the clamping body 13. The step 141 is located inside the rear sleeve 14, and the step 141 and the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13 form the sealing groove 4. That is, in this embodiment, the width of the step 141 provided on the rear sleeve 14 in the axial direction is at least equal to the width of the sealing groove 4 in the axial direction. It is only necessary for the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13 to provide an inner wall surface of the sealing groove 4 so that the step 141 and the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13 form a groove-shaped structure. With this configuration, the clamping body 13 does not need to be provided with a step 141 to form the sealing groove 4, and the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13 itself can be used directly, making the clamping body 13 easier to form.

[0066] Of course, in other embodiments, steps 141 can be provided on both the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13, so that the rear sleeve 14 forms half of the sealing groove 4 and the clamping body 13 also forms half of the sealing groove 4, with the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13 forming a complete sealing groove 4. Alternatively, the rear sleeve 14 forms a quarter of the sealing groove 4 and the clamping body 13 forms three-quarters of the sealing groove 4, with the two forming a complete sealing groove 4. Other proportions can also be used, and no limitation is made here.

[0067] Further, see Figure 6As shown, preferably, the step 141 may include a first annular surface 1411 and a second annular surface 1412 that are perpendicularly connected to each other, that is, the first annular surface 1411 connects to the second annular surface 1412. The connection here can be a direct connection or an indirect connection, and the first annular surface 1411 and the second annular surface 1412 are perpendicular to each other. The first annular surface 1411 can extend along the axial direction of the rear sleeve 14, and the second annular surface 1412 extends along the radial direction of the rear sleeve 14. The second annular surface 1412 is parallel to the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13, so that the first annular surface 1411, the second annular surface 1412 and the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13 together form a sealing groove 4 with a rectangular cross-section. The complete sealing groove 4 can be annular, and the first annular surface 1411 forms the bottom surface of the sealing groove 4, and the second annular surface 1412 and the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13 respectively form the opposite two sides of the sealing groove 4.

[0068] Of course, in other embodiments, the structural shape of the corresponding step 141 can also be set according to the structural shape of the sealing groove 4 or the sealing ring 5.

[0069] In some alternative embodiments, see Figure 6 As shown, a first guide surface 142 is provided at the connection between the inner side of the rear sleeve 14 and the step 141. The first guide surface 142 is an inclined surface and is biased towards the clamping body 13 relative to the step 141, that is, the first guide surface 142 is located near the front end of the rear sleeve 14. The end of the clamping body 13 is provided with a second guide surface 132 that cooperates with the first guide surface 142. The second guide surface 132 can also be an inclined surface. The second guide surface 132 fits against the first guide surface 142 and is connected to the rear end face 131 of the clamping body 13. In this embodiment, since a second guide surface 132 is provided near the rear end of the clamping body 13, the second guide surface 132 can guide the rear sleeve 14 during the assembly of the rear sleeve 14 and the clamping body 13, and cause the second guide surface 132 to contact the first guide surface 142, thereby guiding the rear end surface 131 connected to the second guide surface 132 to accurately align with the step 141 to form a sealing groove 4.

[0070] Further, see Figure 6As shown, in some embodiments, a boss 143 may be provided on the inner side of the rear sleeve 14, such that a step 141 is formed on one side of the boss 143. That is, the boss 143 may be formed by protruding from the inner side of the rear sleeve 14 toward a direction close to its axis, and the boss 143 may be annular. A groove 144 may be provided on the rear sleeve 14 corresponding to the boss 143. The groove 144 is located on the outer side of the rear sleeve 14, and the groove 144 and the boss 143 at least partially overlap along the radial direction of the rear sleeve 14. In this embodiment, the groove 144 provided on the outer side can be used to install a sealing component, or it can be used to install or match other components. Since the wall thickness of the rear sleeve 14 is relatively thick at the location where the boss 143 is provided, the groove 144 is chosen to be provided here. Even with the groove 144 provided here, the wall thickness at this location will not be too thin and affect the strength of the rear sleeve 14 due to the boss 143.

[0071] In other embodiments, the step 141 can also be formed on the inner side of the rear sleeve 14 without the protrusion 143.

[0072] In some optional embodiments, a step 141 is provided on the side of the clamping body 13 near the rear sleeve 14. The step 141 is located inside the clamping body 13, and the step 141 and the front end face of the rear sleeve 14 form the sealing groove 4. That is, in addition to setting the step 141 on the rear sleeve 14, it is also possible to set the step 141 inside the clamping body 13 as in this embodiment, and use the front end face of the rear sleeve 14 to form the sealing groove 4. With this setting, the rear sleeve 14 does not need to be provided with the step 141 to form the sealing groove 4, and the front end face of the rear sleeve 14 itself can be used directly, making the rear sleeve 14 easier to form.

[0073] See Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, clamping blocks 133 can be symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the clamping body 13. The clamping blocks 133 can be distributed on the left and right sides of the clamping body 13. The rear sleeve 14 is provided with an elastic locking structure 6 corresponding to the clamping blocks 133. The elastic locking structure 6 can be integrally formed with the rear sleeve 14, and one end of the elastic locking structure 6 can be connected to the rear sleeve 14, so that the elastic locking structure 6 forms a cantilever shape, giving it a certain elasticity and allowing it to undergo elastic deformation. The elastic locking structure 6 can be provided with a slot 61 that cooperates with the clamping blocks 133 for locking. In this embodiment, by setting the clamping blocks 133 and the slot 61, the clamping body 13 and the rear sleeve 14 can be snapped and fixed, that is, they can be connected and fixed by inserting them into each other in the axial direction without the need for twisting. Furthermore, the slot 61 is set on the elastic locking structure 6, which can undergo elastic deformation. After the elastic locking structure 6 undergoes elastic deformation, it is beneficial for the clamping blocks 133 to be inserted into the slot 61.

[0074] Of course, in other embodiments, the card block 133 can be set on the rear sleeve 14 and the card slot 61 can be set on the clamping body 13; or the clamping body 13 and the rear sleeve 14 can be fixed by threads or other detachable methods.

[0075] See Figure 2 As shown, further, the rear sleeve 14 may be provided with a keyway, and the surface of the clamping body 13 is provided with a bonding portion 134, which is correspondingly inserted into the keyway. In this embodiment, since the rear sleeve 14 is located behind the clamping body 13, and the rear sleeve 14 moves from rear to front to dock with the clamping body 13, by providing the bonding portion 134 at a position close to the rear sleeve 14, the bonding portion 134 can not only guide the rear sleeve 14, but also ensure that the rear sleeve 14 can match the clamping body 13 when the position of the bonding portion 134 corresponds to the keyway. Therefore, the bonding portion 134 can also ensure that the rear sleeve 14 docks with the clamping body 13 at the correct angle.

[0076] By using the adapter 100 provided in this embodiment, the seal between the adapter 100 and the connector 200 can be guaranteed to meet IP8, and the seal position is located inside the adapter 100, which provides good protection for the sealing ring 5, making it less prone to damage and contamination, and greatly reducing the risk of seal failure. The outer surface of the connector 200 has no sealing groove 4, and the overall appearance is complete and beautiful.

[0077] See Figure 12 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a connector 200 for cooperating with the adapter 100 described above. The connector 200 may include a body 201, which is provided with a locking groove 202 for engaging with the sliding protrusion 2 of the adapter 100 for locking. The connector 200 may be any of the connectors mentioned in the above embodiments, and the adapter 100 may also be any of the adapters in the above embodiments; further details will not be provided here.

[0078] This invention also provides a connector 200 assembly, which may include the adapter 100 described above, and the connector 200 described above that cooperates with the adapter 100, which will not be described in detail here.

[0079] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two elements. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0080] It should be noted that in this invention, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0081] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. An adapter, characterized in that, It includes: A main body (1) is provided with a plug-in cavity (11) inside, and is also provided with a sliding groove (12) extending along the radial direction thereof, which communicates with the plug-in cavity (11); A sliding block (2) is limited in the sliding groove (12), and the sliding groove (12) is configured to enable the sliding block (2) to slide in the radial direction of the main body (1) in the sliding groove (12); The sliding block (2) includes a sliding locking block (21) and an elastic deformation structure (22) integrally provided on the sliding locking block (21), the elastic deformation structure (22) is provided on the side of the sliding locking block (21) away from the axis of the main body (1), and the elastic deformation structure (22) provides elastic force for driving the sliding locking block (21) to move radially; The elastic deformation structure (22) includes an elastic arm (221), one end of the elastic arm (221) is connected to the sliding locking block (21), and the elastic arm (221) extends obliquely from the connection with the sliding locking block (21); Opposite sides of the sliding block (2) are provided with limiting surfaces (23), and the sliding groove (12) is provided with limiting portions matched with the limiting surfaces (23), the limiting portions are in contact with the limiting surfaces (23) to limit the depth of the sliding block (2) protruding into the plug-in cavity (11); When the connector is inserted into the plug-in cavity (11), the sliding block (2) is driven by its own elastic force to insert the sliding block (2) into the locking groove (202) of the connector radially; When the connector is pulled out axially, the connector drives the sliding block (2) to compress and move out of the locking groove (202) of the connector radially.

2. The adapter of claim 1, wherein: A free end of each elastic arm (221) is provided with a convex bundle (222) protruding away from the sliding locking block (21).

3. The adapter of claim 1, wherein: One side of the sliding locking block (21) is provided with a plug-in guide surface (211), and the other side of the sliding locking block (21) is also provided with a foolproof portion (212), and the foolproof portion (212) and the plug-in guide surface (211) are respectively provided on opposite sides of the sliding locking block (21).

4. The adapter of claim 1, wherein: One side of the sliding locking block (21) close to the plug-in cavity (11) is provided with an unlocking protruding portion (213), the unlocking protruding portion (213) protrudes beyond the bottom surface of the sliding locking block (21) in the radial direction, and the unlocking protruding portion (213) is provided on the edge of the sliding locking block (21).

5. The adapter of claim 1, wherein: One side of the sliding protrusion (2) is provided with a plug guide surface (211), and the other side of the sliding protrusion (2) is provided with a cutout, the cutout and the plug guide surface (211) are respectively arranged on the opposite sides of the sliding protrusion (2), and a side wall surface of the cutout forms a radial locking surface (214).

6. The adapter of claim 1, wherein, The main body (1) comprises: A clamping body (13) is provided with the plug cavity (11) inside, and the clamping body (13) is provided with the sliding groove (12) which penetrates the clamping body (13) in the radial direction; A rear sleeve (14) is sleeved outside the clamping body (13), and the rear sleeve (14) is at least partially blocked outside the sliding groove (12).

7. A connector for mating with the adapter of claim 1, wherein, The connector comprises a body (201) provided with a locking groove (202) for cooperating with the sliding protrusion (2) of the adapter.

8. A connector assembly characterized by, It comprises the adapter according to any one of claims 1-6, and the connector cooperating with the adapter according to claim 7.

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