Self-locking quick connector and self-locking and unlocking method thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a self-locking quick connector and a self-locking and unlocking method thereof. The self-locking quick connector of the present invention comprises a female head and a male head, and the male head can be moved along the axis and inserted into the female head. The male head is provided with an annular groove, an annular step and a receiving groove forming a snap structure, and the female head comprises a main body, a claw and a sleeve. A seal is installed in the annular groove of the male head to contact with the inner cavity of the female head main body to form a seal. The buckle of the male head and the claw of the female head are engaged to form a self-locking. The sleeve of the female head moves axially to drive the claw of the female head to move, thereby completing the unlocking. The quick connector device of the present invention can realize quick connection in a small space, is easy to assemble and disassemble, can automatically lock and has connection protection measures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of pipeline connection, and more particularly to a self-locking quick connector and a self-locking and unlocking method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Pipe quick connectors, also known as push-fit pipe fittings, are used in many fields due to their ease of operation, compact connection, and reusability. Across various industrial production sectors, the connection between two pipelines (whether for water, gas, or oil) is a common requirement, and quick connectors are widely used to connect these two lines. Traditional quick connectors typically utilize threaded, push-on, switch-on, and push-pull connections.

[0003] In a threaded connection, the locking nut is tightened to compress the claws to further clamp the hose, preventing it from slipping out. However, the disadvantage is that the seal requires the hose end face to be flat and the surface to be complete and smooth. It is necessary to carefully check or remove any uneven areas before installation. It requires many tools, the installation process is cumbersome, and it is not suitable for installation in small spaces.

[0004] In a push-type connection, the lever principle is used to press or pull the connecting rod of the female head, driving the claws to compress or clamp the male head to form a seal and prevent movement. Its disadvantages are: the product structure is complex, and the exposed connecting rod is easily bumped or hooked, causing the device to open accidentally.

[0005] In a switch-type connection, when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, a step on the male connector pushes the female connector's claws to expand and lock the male connector. To remove the connector, the switch is pressed to expand the claws, allowing the male connector to be removed. However, the disadvantages are: when the device structure is complex, the switch structure is prone to jamming, and there is a risk that the switch will be accidentally bumped or pressed, causing the claws to expand and the male connector to fall out. When the device structure is simple, the force is unidirectional, and the seals or plastic parts are prone to long-term deformation.

[0006] In a push-pull connection, after the male connector is inserted into the female connector, the female connector sleeve is pulled to drive the snap lock. The disadvantages are: the seal is located inside the female connector, making it difficult to observe for defects, and difficult to inspect and troubleshoot before installation and when leaks occur. The male connector is locked by manually pulling the female connector sleeve, which has no safeguards. If it is not pulled into place (for example, when the snap is half-connected), the male connector can easily fall out, causing leakage.

[0007] From the above, it can be seen that the existing quick connectors have defects such as inconvenient connection and / or disassembly, easy falling off, and poor sealing.

[0008] Therefore, the art still lacks a quick connection device with a simple structure, a small installation space, easy assembly and disassembly (for example, can be assembled and disassembled by hand), and a self-locking protection measure. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a self-locking quick connector and a self-locking and unlocking method thereof. The self-locking quick connector of the present invention comprises a female head and a male head, and the male head can be moved along the axis and inserted into the female head. The male head is provided with an annular groove, an annular step and a receiving groove forming a snap structure, and the female head comprises a main body, a claw and a sleeve. A seal is installed in the annular groove of the male head to contact the inner cavity of the female head body to form a seal. The buckle of the male head and the claw of the female head are engaged to form a self-locking. The sleeve of the female head moves axially to drive the claw of the female head to move, thereby completing the unlocking. The quick connector device of the present invention can realize quick connection in a small space, is easy to assemble and disassemble, can automatically lock and has connection protection measures.

[0010] In a first aspect of the present invention, a self-locking quick connector is provided, which includes a female head and a male head, and the male head and the female head are connected by snap-fitting; the female head includes a main body, which is a hollow tube structure, one end of the main body is connected to the pipe, and the other end of the main body is provided with a window and a clamp; a C ring, the C ring includes a convex rib, the convex rib is covered on the outside of the main body, and the convex rib is provided with an annular rib; and a claw, which is a snap-fitting part extending axially from the second end of the convex rib, and the claw includes a branch, a first convex part and a reinforcing rib, one end of the branch is fixedly connected to the convex rib, and the other end of the branch is fixedly connected to the first convex part, the first convex part is used to buckle into the window, and the reinforcing rib is used to buckle into the window. The rib is a rib arranged at the connection between the branch and the first protrusion; and the sleeve, the sleeve is a hollow cylinder, the sleeve is sleeved outside the main body and the C ring, and the inner side wall of the sleeve is provided with an annular baffle and a card groove, the baffle is used to interact with the rib, and the card groove is used to interact with the clamping head, and the axial sliding of the sleeve is limited by the baffle and the card groove; the male head includes a joint, the joint is a hollow tube structure, one end of the joint is provided with a second protrusion and a receiving groove, and the other end of the joint is connected to the pipeline; wherein, the female head and the male head are assembled and connected by the snap fit of the first protrusion and the receiving groove; the female head and the male head are released from the fit by moving the first protrusion out of the receiving groove.

[0011] In another preferred embodiment, the connection between the convex rib and the branch is also reinforced and supported by ribs.

[0012] In another preferred embodiment, a marking portion is provided on the inner side wall of the main body. When the second protrusion of the male head reaches the marking portion, sufficient movement space is provided for the outward expansion of the claw, indicating that the second protrusion can release the locking relationship with the claw.

[0013] In another preferred embodiment, the marking portion is a protrusion provided on the inner side wall of the main body. When the second protrusion of the male head abuts against the protrusion, it indicates that the sleeve can be withdrawn and the claws can be expanded outward, thereby unlocking the male head and the female head.

[0014] In another preferred example, the self-locking quick connector includes a block, which is arranged on the other end of the main body and does not block the clamp. The outer periphery of the block can be against the sleeve to protect the sleeve and prevent the sleeve from moving due to unnecessary external force.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment, a recessed groove and / or a recessed entrance is provided on the other end of the main body, and a snap-fit ​​protrusion is provided on the stopper, and the snap-fit ​​protrusion is fixed to the recessed groove and / or the recessed entrance by snap-fitting.

[0016] In another preferred embodiment, the free end of the stopper is provided with a radially outward flange, and the flange abuts against the sleeve.

[0017] In another preferred example, the main body includes a guide groove / guide bar, and the guide groove / guide bar is arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the other end of the main body, and correspondingly, a guide bar / guide groove is provided on the inner peripheral wall of the sleeve; during the assembly process of the sleeve, the guide bar slides in the guide groove to guide the assembly position relationship between the sleeve and the main body.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment, a first retaining ring is provided at one end of the main body, and the first retaining ring is used to provide positioning and sliding support for the sleeve, and at the same time block the C-ring to prevent it from withdrawing too far.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment, the first retaining ring is oval in shape.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment, the sleeve is a waist-shaped sleeve, which is used to prevent the sleeve from rotating.

[0021] In another preferred example, the first waist-shaped retaining ring and the waist-shaped sleeve are adapted to each other.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, a first wave is provided at one end of the main body, and the first wave is used to be connected to the pipeline.

[0023] In another preferred example, the clamping head is a radially outward protrusion fixed on the main body; the clamping groove is defined by two protrusions; when assembling the sleeve, the end of the sleeve away from the clamping groove is first put on the main body and the claw, and the sleeve is continued to be pushed so that the clamping groove slides over the clamping head, thereby enclosing the baffle and the clamping groove of the sleeve between the rib and the clamping head, so that the sleeve slides within a limited range.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment, the number of the clamping heads is at least one; preferably, 2-8; more preferably, 2-6.

[0025] In another preferred example, the clamps are evenly distributed circumferentially on the outer side of the other end of the main body.

[0026] In another preferred embodiment, the number and positional relationship of the card slots correspond to those of the card head.

[0027] In another preferred embodiment, the baffle is an annular baffle formed by multiple flange sections.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, the baffle is an annular baffle formed by a whole section of flange.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment, an indicator arrow is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve for indicating the sliding direction of the sleeve when the self-locking quick connector is unlocked.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the convex rib is a semi-enclosed structure, and during the assembly of the C-ring, the C-ring is snap-fitted onto the outer periphery of the main body through the notch of the convex rib.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment, the annular rib is disconnected at a position opposite to the notch. This configuration enables the rib to expand evenly during the disassembly process of the male and female connectors.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the number of the claws is at least one; preferably, 1-6; more preferably, 2-4.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, the number of the windows corresponds to the number of the claws.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment, one of the windows corresponds to the plurality of claws.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment, the plurality of claws are distributed on the rib as evenly as possible.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment, the convex rib is provided with at least one rib, preferably 1-5, and more preferably 2-4. The provision of multiple ribs increases the strength of the convex rib, making it less susceptible to deformation, and provides backup resistance, avoiding situations where the rib's resistance is insufficient due to manufacturing defects or long-term wear.

[0037] In another preferred embodiment, the male head further includes a sealing member, an annular groove is provided on the outer peripheral wall of one end of the male head, and the sealing member is arranged in the annular groove to provide sealing between the male head and the inner cavity of the main body.

[0038] In another preferred embodiment, the number of the annular grooves is 1-5; preferably, 2-4; more preferably, 2-3.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment, a second retaining ring is provided at the other end of the joint, and the second retaining ring and the second protrusion together form the accommodating groove.

[0040] In another preferred embodiment, a second wave is provided at the other end of the joint, and the second wave is used to be connected to the pipeline.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, when the male connector and the female connector are assembled, the second retaining ring is accommodated in the inner cavity of the main body, and its outer periphery abuts against the inner cavity of the main body to provide auxiliary support and fixation for the male connector in the female connector.

[0042] In another preferred embodiment, a check valve is further provided in the inner cavity of the main body. However, the invention is not limited to a check valve, and a flow limiting valve or a filter may also be provided. Or a combination of the above functional accessories (i.e., more than one valve, or two. Or more than a single function accessory, or a combination of a check valve and a filter)

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, one end of the check valve with a seal is inserted to the bottom from the open end of the main body.

[0044] In another preferred embodiment, the inner cavity depth of the main body is much greater than the depth required for inserting the male plug.

[0045] In another preferred example, the claw has an opening, and the opening is smaller than the diameter of the main body.

[0046] In another preferred example, when the self-locking quick connector is connected to the pipe, the steel sleeve is put on the outside of the pipe, and the wave beads (including the first wave beads or the second wave beads) are installed in the pipe that has been covered with the steel sleeve, and the steel sleeve is clamped to clamp and fix the pipe and the main body or the connector.

[0047] In another preferred example, the first protrusion includes a first end face and a second end face, wherein the first end face is chamfered, which is conducive to the fit between the first protrusion and the second protrusion; the radial distance of the second end face is the distance between the innermost side of the reinforcing rib and the innermost side of the first protrusion, which is approximately 2-50 mm; preferably, 3-25 mm; more preferably, 5-15 mm.

[0048] In another preferred embodiment, the second end surface is a vertical surface and / or an inclined surface (relative to the axial direction of the self-locking quick connector). When the second end surface includes an inclined surface, the first protrusion and the branch form an inwardly buckled hook shape.

[0049] In another preferred example, the second protrusion includes a third end face and a fourth end face, wherein the third end face is chamfered or inclined to facilitate passage through the first end face of the first protrusion; the fourth end face is a vertical face and / or an inclined face (relative to the axial direction of the self-locking quick connector). When the second end face includes the inclined face, the second protrusion and the main body of the male head form an inward-locking hook shape.

[0050] In another preferred embodiment, after the male head and the female head are assembled, the male head can rotate in the female head. This configuration allows the two to have greater freedom of movement (rotate relative to each other) and avoid entanglement of the pipes connected thereto.

[0051] In another preferred embodiment, after the second protrusion of the male head passes over the first protrusion of the female head, the first protrusion will rebound into the receiving groove. During this process, the operator can determine that the female head and the male head have been installed by feeling the change in force and / or hearing the collision sound of the rebound (for example, a "click" sound).

[0052] In a second aspect of the present invention, a self-locking method is provided, the method comprising: (1) providing the self-locking quick connector as described above; (2) moving the male head along the axis and inserting it into the body of the female head, with the first protrusion inserted into the receiving groove, and locking the male head and the female head by snap-fitting the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

[0053] In a third aspect of the present invention, an unlocking method is provided, the method comprising: (1) providing the self-locking quick connector as described above, wherein the self-locking quick connector is in a self-locking state; (2) sliding the sleeve in a direction away from the male head, the retaining bar drives the rib of the convex rib to slide, thereby causing the C-ring to retreat, the first protrusion to expand outward and withdraw from the accommodating groove, and the female head and the male head to release the engagement.

[0054] The main advantages of the present invention include:

[0055] (a) The structure is simple and does not require the use of tools. It can be assembled and disassembled with one hand.

[0056] (b) The entire connector is protected by a sleeve with no exposed parts and no hidden danger of opening due to accidental collision;

[0057] (c) Small size and compact structure, which can be installed in a small space (e.g., a narrow space);

[0058] (d) With automatic locking protection measures, the connection is more stable and not easy to fall off;

[0059] (e) A check valve or other functional accessories can be inserted into the female connector;

[0060] (f) The seal (e.g., O-ring) is subjected to circumferential force to form a seal;

[0061] (g) After the male and female connectors are assembled, the male connector can rotate within the female connector, allowing them to have greater freedom of movement (rotate relative to each other) and avoid entanglement of the connected pipes;

[0062] (h) When assembling the male and female connectors, the operator can determine that the female and male connectors have been installed by feeling the change in force and / or hearing the rebound sound. This is simple and direct.

[0063] It should be understood that within the scope of the present invention, the above-mentioned technical features of the present invention and the technical features described in detail below (such as in the embodiments) can be combined with each other to form new or preferred technical solutions. Due to space limitations, they will not be listed here one by one. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0065] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the main body of a female connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 2 is a three-dimensional diagram of a stopper of a female head in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a C-ring of a female connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of one of the jaws;

[0069] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a sleeve of a female connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the sleeve in FIG.

[0071] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A Another cross-sectional view of the sleeve in FIG;

[0072] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a male connector in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A The main view of the joint in;

[0074] Figure 6A This is a front view of a self-locking quick connector connected to a pipeline in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A Cross-sectional view along section AA;

[0076] Figure 7-10 Shown Figure 6A and 6B Schematic diagram of the locking and unlocking process of the self-locking quick connector in FIG. Figure 7 This is a diagram of the female and male connectors before they are connected; Figure 8 This is a diagram of the male connector being inserted into the female connector, when the connector and the claws first make contact; Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of the joint passing over the claw, the claw rebounding, and the two forming a self-locking pattern; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the sleeve driving the C-ring to retract, the claws to expand outward, the connector and claws to release the self-locking function, and the male and female connectors to separate.

[0077] In the accompanying drawings, the following are marked:

[0078] 1- Female connector;

[0079] 2-Pipeline;

[0080] 3-Steel sleeve;

[0081] 4-stopper;

[0082] 4.1- flange;

[0083] 4.2-Snap-on protrusion;

[0084] 5- Main body;

[0085] 5.1-The first wave;

[0086] 5.2-First retaining ring;

[0087] 5.3-Window opening;

[0088] 5.4-Guide groove;

[0089] 5.5-Card head;

[0090] 5.6-Marking Department;

[0091] 6-C ring;

[0092] 6.1-Claws;

[0093] 6.2-First end face;

[0094] 6.3- Second end face;

[0095] 6.4-Protruding ribs;

[0096] 6.5-Reinforcement;

[0097] 6.6-Branch;

[0098] 6.7-First convex part;

[0099] 6.8-ribs;

[0100] 6.9-Gap;

[0101] 7-sleeve;

[0102] 7.1-Arrow;

[0103] 7.2-Card slot;

[0104] 7.3-Guide bars;

[0105] 7.4-Block bar;

[0106] 8-Male;

[0107] 9-connector;

[0108] 9.1- Second wave;

[0109] 9.2-ring groove;

[0110] 9.3- Third end face;

[0111] 9.4-Fourth end face;

[0112] 9.5- receiving tank;

[0113] 9.6-Second convex part;

[0114] 9.7-Second retaining ring;

[0115] 10-seal;

[0116] 11-Check valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0117] The present inventors have, after extensive and in-depth research and a large number of screenings, developed for the first time a self-locking quick connector and a self-locking and unlocking method thereof. The self-locking quick connector of the present invention comprises a female connector and a male connector, the male connector being movable along an axis and insertable into the female connector. The male connector is provided with an annular groove, an annular step forming a buckle structure, and a receiving groove, while the female connector comprises a main body, a claw, and a sleeve. The annular groove of the male connector houses a seal for contacting and sealing the inner cavity of the female connector main body. The buckle of the male connector engages with the claw of the female connector to form a self-locking connection. The sleeve of the female connector moves axially, driving the claw of the female connector to unlock the connector. The oval-shaped sleeve cooperates with the oval-shaped first retaining ring to ensure axial movement of the sleeve while maintaining a small size and prevent rotation of the sleeve after the female connector is installed. The first protrusion of the C-ring and the second protrusion of the connector can be configured as annular surfaces with an inclination to facilitate interlocking and sliding movement. A clearance is left in the inner cavity of the main body to accommodate at least one check valve or flow limiting valve, while also providing sufficient clearance for the male connector to move, ensuring that the connector is installed completely without any excess space. The quick connector device of the present invention can achieve quick connection in a confined space, is easy to assemble and disassemble, and can automatically lock and provide connection protection measures.

[0118] The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are intended to illustrate the present invention only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. In addition, the accompanying drawings are schematic diagrams, and therefore the devices and apparatuses of the present invention are not limited by the dimensions or proportions of the schematic diagrams.

[0119] It should be noted that in the claims and description of this patent, relational terms such as first and second, etc. are merely used to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Moreover, the terms "include", "comprises" or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, article or device that includes a series of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also includes elements inherent to such process, method, article or device. In the absence of further restrictions, an element defined by the sentence "including a" does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article or device that includes the element.

[0120] Example

[0121] The self-locking quick connector of this embodiment is a pipe connector for braided hoses or hard plastic pipes (a pipe connector is a device used in liquid and / or gas transmission pipelines to connect two separate pipes to ensure the flow of liquid and / or gas within the pipe without leakage). It is particularly suitable for connecting flexible pipes for building domestic water (for example, flexible pipes for kitchen and bathroom fixtures). Existing flexible pipe connection options include welding, hot melt, threaded, and socket joints.

[0122] The self-locking quick connector of this embodiment solves several problems existing in other quick connectors: 1. One-handed assembly and disassembly can be achieved in a small space; 2. A check valve can be inserted into the female quick connector; 3. The O-ring annular seal is annular and bears force; 4. The small size is suitable for installation in small spaces.

[0123] The self-locking quick connector of this embodiment is as follows Figure 1-10 shown.

[0124] The self-locking quick connector of this embodiment includes a female connector 1 and a male connector 8. The male connector 8 is inserted into the female connector 1 by moving along the axis. The male connector 8 and the female connector 1 are connected by snap fit.

[0125] The female connector 1 comprises a main body 5, a C-ring 6, a sleeve 7, and a stopper 4. The main body 5 is a hollow tube structure, one end of which is connected to the pipe 2 via a first wave 5.1. The other end of the main body 5 is provided with a window 5.3 and a clamping head 5.5. The C-ring 6 comprises a rib 6.4 and a claw 6.1. The rib 6.4 wraps around the outside of the main body 5 and is provided with an annular rib 6.8. The rib 6.4 is a semi-enclosed structure (for example, having a notch ranging from 1 / 5 to 1 / 3 of the circumference). During assembly of the C-ring 6, the notch 6.9 in the rib 6.4 allows the C-ring 6 to be clamped onto the outer circumference of the main body 5. The claw 6.1 is a latching member extending axially from the second end of the rib 6.4. The claw 6.1 comprises a branch 6.6, a first protrusion 6.7, and a reinforcing rib 6.5. One end of the branch 6.6 is fixedly connected to the rib 6.4, and the other end of the branch 6.6 is fixedly connected to the first protrusion 6.7. The first protrusion 6.7 is designed to snap into the window 5.3. The reinforcing rib 6.5 is a rib provided at the junction of the branch 6.6 and the first protrusion 6.7. There are two claws 6.1, which are arranged opposite each other on the rib 6.4. The claws 6.1 of the window 5.3 are arranged correspondingly. The opening formed by the two claws 6.1 is smaller than the diameter of the main body 5. The rib 6.4 is provided with three ribs 6.8. The provision of multiple ribs 6.8 increases the strength of the rib 6.4, making it less prone to deformation. They also provide a backup barrier to prevent insufficient rib blocking force due to manufacturing defects or long-term wear. Sleeve 7 is a hollow, oval-shaped cylinder that fits over the main body 5 and C-ring 6. An annular retaining bar 7.4 and a retaining groove 7.2 are provided on the inner sidewall of sleeve 7. The retaining bar 7.4 interacts with the rib 6.8, while the retaining groove 7.2 interacts with the clamping head 5.5. The retaining bar 7.4 and retaining groove 7.2 restrict axial sliding of sleeve 7. A stopper 4 is provided at the other end of the main body 5 without obstructing the clamping head 5.5. The free end of stopper 4 is provided with a radially outward flange 4.1 that abuts against sleeve 7, protecting sleeve 7 from movement due to unnecessary external forces. A recessed groove is provided at the other end of the main body 5, and a snap-fitting protrusion 4.2 is provided on stopper 4. This protrusion 4.2 secures the recessed groove to the retaining bar through a snap-fit ​​fit.

[0126] A marking portion 5.6 (e.g., a protrusion) is further provided on the inner side wall of the main body 5. When the second protrusion 9.6 of the male head 8 moves to abut against the protrusion, sufficient movement space is provided for the outward expansion of the claw 6.1, indicating that the second protrusion 9.6 can release the locking relationship with the claw 6.1.

[0127] The first protrusion 6.7 includes a first end face 6.2 and a second end face 6.3, wherein the first end face 6.2 is chamfered, which is conducive to the fit between the first protrusion 6.7 and the second protrusion 9.6; the radial distance of the second end face 6.3 is the distance between the innermost side of the reinforcing rib 6.5 and the innermost side of the first protrusion 6.7, which is approximately 2-50 mm; preferably, 3-25 mm; more preferably, 5-15 mm.

[0128] The second end surface 6.3 is a vertical surface and / or an inclined surface (relative to the axial direction of the self-locking quick connector). When the second end surface 6.3 includes an inclined surface, the first protrusion 6.7 and the branch 6.6 form an inwardly buckled hook shape.

[0129] The main body 5 is provided with a guide groove 5.4, which is arranged on the outer circumference of the other end of the main body 5. Correspondingly, a guide bar 7.3 is provided on the inner circumference of the sleeve 7. During the assembly of the sleeve 7, the guide bar 7.3 slides in the guide groove 5.4 to guide the assembly position between the sleeve 7 and the main body 5.

[0130] A first retaining ring 5.2 is located at one end of the main body 5. This retaining ring 5.2 provides positioning and sliding support for the sleeve 7, while also blocking the C-ring 6 from withdrawing too far. The retaining ring 5.2 is oval-shaped and, in conjunction with the oval-shaped sleeve 7, prevents the sleeve 7 from rotating. Furthermore, the oval-shaped design of the sleeve 7 provides more space for the movement of the claw 6.1.

[0131] The clamping head 5.5 is a radially outward protrusion fixed on the main body 5. In this embodiment, there are two clamping heads 5.5, which are arranged on the outer side of the other end of the main body 5. The clamping heads 5.5 on the main body 5 are arranged corresponding to the clamping groove 7.2 on the cylinder. Each clamping groove 7.2 is defined by two protrusions; when assembling the sleeve 7, the end of the sleeve 7 away from the clamping groove 7.2 is first placed on the main body 5 and the claw 6.1, and the sleeve 7 is pushed further, so that the clamping groove 7.2 slides over the clamping head 5.5, thereby enclosing the retaining bar 7.4 of the sleeve 7 and the clamping groove 7.2 between the rib 6.4 and the clamping head 5.5, so that the sleeve 7 slides within a limited range. Among them, the retaining bar 7.4 is an annular retaining bar 7.4 formed by multiple sections of flange 4.1.

[0132] In addition, an indicator arrow 7.1 is provided on the outer circumference of the sleeve 7 for indicating the sliding direction of the sleeve 7 when the self-locking quick connector is unlocked.

[0133] The inner cavity depth of the main body 5 is much greater than the depth required to insert the male connector 8. A check valve 11 is also provided in the inner cavity of the main body 5. One end of the check valve 11 with a seal 10 is inserted into the bottom from the open end of the main body 5 (the end receiving the male connector 8).

[0134] The male connector 8 includes a connector 9 and a sealing member 10. The connector 9 is a hollow tube structure. One end of the connector 9 is provided with a second protrusion 9.6 and a receiving groove 9.5. The other end of the connector 9 is connected to the pipe 2 via a second wave 9.1. Two annular grooves 9.2 are provided on the outer peripheral wall of one end of the connector 9. The sealing member 10 is arranged in the annular groove 9.2 to provide a seal between the male connector 8 and the inner cavity of the main body 5. A second retaining ring 9.7 is provided at the other end of the connector 9. The second retaining ring 9.7 and the second protrusion 9.6 together form the receiving groove 9.5. When the male connector 8 and the female connector 1 are assembled, the second retaining ring 9.7 is accommodated in the inner cavity of the main body 5, and its outer periphery is against the inner cavity of the main body 5, which also provides auxiliary support and fixation for the male connector 8 in the female connector 1.

[0135] The second protrusion 9.6 includes a third end face 9.3 and a fourth end face 9.4, wherein the third end face 9.3 is chamfered or inclined to facilitate passage through the first end face 6.2 of the first protrusion 6.7; the fourth end face 9.4 is a vertical surface and / or an inclined surface (relative to the axial direction of the self-locking quick connector). When the second end face 6.3 includes the inclined surface, the second protrusion 9.6 and the bottom of the accommodating groove 9.5 form an inwardly buckled hook shape.

[0136] When the self-locking quick connector is connected to the pipe 2, the steel sleeve 3 is put on the outside of the pipe 2, and the wave beads (including the first wave beads 5.1 or the second wave beads 9.1) are installed in the pipe 2 with the steel sleeve 3, and the steel sleeve 3 is clamped to clamp and fix the pipe 2 and the main body 5 or the connector 9.

[0137] The assembly and operation process of the self-locking quick connector of this embodiment is as follows:

[0138] 1. Female connector assembly

[0139] The steel sleeve 3 is put on the outside of the pipe 2, and the first wave 5.1 is installed into the pipe 2 (the pipe has two types: braided hose and hard plastic pipe) with the steel sleeve 3. A special machine presses the steel sleeve 3 to clamp and fix the pipe 2 and the main body 5.

[0140] The check valve 11 is inserted to the bottom from the opening (the end for receiving the male connector 2 ) according to the direction in which the medium needs to be prevented from flowing.

[0141] The claw 6.1 is aligned with the window 5.3, pressing the C ring 6 so that the notch of the rib 6.4 hits the body 5 and expands under pressure until the notch is larger than the body 5 and then rebounds, so that the C ring 6 is sleeved on the body 1 and the claw 6.1 is clamped in the window 5.3.

[0142] The oval-shaped sleeve 7 is aligned with the oval-shaped first retaining ring 5.2 and is installed into the main body 1 in the direction indicated by the arrow. The guide bar 7.3 is inserted into the guide groove 5.4 to guide. When the groove 7.2 hits the clamping head 5.5, it is forced to expand and then rebounds to its original shape after passing the clamping head 5.5.

[0143] The above female connector 1 is assembled.

[0144] 2. Male connector assembly

[0145] The steel sleeve 3 is put on the outside of the pipe 2 (the pipe is a braided hose), and the second wave 9.1 is installed into the pipe 2 with the steel sleeve 3. A special machine clamps the steel sleeve 3, clamps and fixes the pipe 2 and the joint 9, and the two seals 10 are put on the two ring grooves 9.1 in sequence.

[0146] The above male connector 8 is assembled.

[0147] 3. Installation of female and male connectors

[0148] The male connector 8 is inserted into the female connector 1 axially, and the third end surface 9.3 contacts the first end surface 6.2, causing the claw 6.1 to expand and the male connector 8 to continue to be inserted. When the third end surface 9.3 exceeds the claw 6.1, the claw 6.1 rebounds into the receiving groove 9.5.

[0149] The installation is complete. The operator can confirm that the female connector 1 and male connector 8 are fully installed by feeling the change in force and / or hearing the rebound and collision sound. After the male and female connectors are assembled, the male connector can rotate within the female connector, allowing them greater freedom of movement (rotation relative to each other) and preventing entanglement in the connected pipes.

[0150] 4. Disassembly of female and male connectors

[0151] Push male connector 8 until third end surface 9.3 contacts marked portion 5.6. Then, move sleeve 7 in the direction indicated by the arrow. Bar 7.4 contacts rib 6.4, driving C-ring 6 to move with sleeve 7. As C-ring 6 moves, rib 6.5 contacts the upper edge of window 5.3, forcing claw 6.1 to expand. This allows male connector 8 to be withdrawn from female connector 1.

[0152] The above disassembly is completed.

[0153] 5. Forming self-locking protection

[0154] After the female connector 1 and male connector 8 are installed, the male connector 8 tends to come out due to gravity and the pressure inside the pipe, causing the fourth end surface 9.4 to contact and interlock with the second inclined surface 6.3. At this time, if the sleeve 7 is directly pushed to remove it, the fourth end surface 9.4 and the second end surface 6.3 will contact and interlock, preventing the claw 6.1 from opening and the C ring 6 from moving, thus forming a self-locking protection.

[0155] 6. Release the self-locking protection

[0156] Push male connector 8 until third end surface 9.3 contacts marked portion 5.6 in body 5. At this point, the opening of claw 6.1 is no longer blocked by fourth end surface 9.4. Then, move sleeve 7 in the direction indicated by the arrow. Bar 7.4 contacts rib 6.4, driving C-ring 6 to move with it. As C-ring 6 moves, rib 6.5 contacts the upper edge of window 5.3, forcing claw 6.1 to expand. Male connector 8 is then withdrawn from female connector 1, completing the unlocking process.

[0157] All documents mentioned in this application are incorporated herein by reference, just as if each document were incorporated herein by reference individually. It should also be understood that after reading the above teachings of the present invention, those skilled in the art may make various changes or modifications to the present invention, and that such equivalents also fall within the scope of the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A self-locking quick connector, characterized in that: The self-locking quick connector includes a female connector and a male connector, and the male connector and the female connector are connected by snap fit; The female connector includes The main body is a hollow tube structure, one end of the main body is connected to the pipeline, and the other end of the main body is provided with a window and a clamp; C ring, the C ring comprising A convex rib, the convex rib covering the outer side of the main body, the convex rib being provided with an annular rib; and A claw, the claw being a fastener extending axially from the second end of the rib, the claw comprising a branch, a first convex portion, and a reinforcing rib, one end of the branch being fixedly connected to the rib, the other end of the branch being fixedly connected to the first convex portion, the first convex portion being configured to buckle into the window, and the reinforcing rib being a rib provided at the connection between the branch and the first convex portion; as well as A sleeve, which is a hollow cylinder and is sleeved outside the main body and the C-ring. An annular retaining strip and a retaining groove are provided on the inner side wall of the sleeve. The retaining strip is used to interact with the rib, and the retaining groove is used to interact with the clamping head. The axial sliding of the sleeve is limited by the retaining strip and the retaining groove; The male head includes a joint, and the joint is a hollow tube structure. One end of the joint is provided with a second protrusion and a receiving groove, and the other end of the joint is connected to the pipeline; The female connector and the male connector are assembled and connected by snap-fitting the first protrusion with the receiving groove; and the female connector and the male connector are released from the receiving groove by moving the first protrusion out of the receiving groove.

2. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: Ribs are used to provide reinforcement support at the connection between the ribs and the branches.

3. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: A marking portion is provided on the inner side wall of the main body. When the second protrusion of the male head reaches the marking portion, sufficient movement space is provided for the outward expansion of the claw, indicating that the second protrusion and the claw can release the locking relationship.

4. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 3, characterized in that: The marking portion is a protrusion provided on the inner side wall of the main body. When the second protrusion of the male head abuts against the protrusion, it indicates that the sleeve can be withdrawn and the claws can be expanded outward, thereby unlocking the male head and the female head.

5. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: The self-locking quick connector includes a block, which is arranged on the other end of the main body and does not block the clamp. The outer periphery of the block can be against the sleeve to protect the sleeve and prevent the sleeve from moving due to unnecessary external force.

6. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 5, characterized in that: A concave groove and / or a concave opening is provided on the other end of the main body, and a snap-fit ​​protrusion is provided on the stopper. The snap-fit ​​protrusion is fixed to the concave groove and / or the concave opening by snap-fitting.

7. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 5, characterized in that: The free end of the stopper is provided with a radially outward flange, and the flange abuts against the sleeve.

8. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: The main body includes a guide groove / guide bar, which is arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the other end of the main body. Correspondingly, a guide bar / guide groove is provided on the inner circumferential wall of the sleeve. During the assembly process of the sleeve, the guide bar slides in the guide groove to guide the assembly position relationship between the sleeve and the main body.

9. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: A first retaining ring is provided at one end of the main body, and the first retaining ring is used to provide positioning and sliding support for the sleeve, and at the same time block the C ring to prevent it from withdrawing too far.

10. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 9, wherein: The first retaining ring is in a waisted circular shape.

11. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 10, wherein: The sleeve is a waist-shaped sleeve, which is used to prevent the sleeve from rotating.

12. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 11, wherein: The first waist-shaped retaining ring and the waist-shaped sleeve are adapted to each other.

13. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: A first wave member is provided at one end of the main body, and the first wave member is used to be connected to the pipeline.

14. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: The clamping head is a radially outward protrusion fixed on the main body; the clamping groove is defined by two protrusions; when assembling the sleeve, the end of the sleeve away from the clamping groove is first placed on the main body and the claw, and the sleeve is continuously pushed so that the clamping groove slides over the clamping head, thereby enclosing the blocking bar and the clamping groove of the sleeve between the rib and the clamping head, so that the sleeve slides within a limited range.

15. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: An indicator arrow is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve for indicating the sliding direction of the sleeve when the self-locking quick connector is unlocked.

16. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: The convex rib is a semi-enclosed structure. During the assembly of the C-ring, the C-ring is clamped and sleeved on the outer periphery of the main body through the notch of the convex rib.

17. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 16, wherein: The position where the annular rib is opposite to the notch is disconnected.

18. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: The male connector further comprises a sealing member. An annular groove is provided on the outer peripheral wall of one end of the male connector. The sealing member is arranged in the annular groove and is used to provide sealing between the male connector and the inner cavity of the main body.

19. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: A second retaining ring is provided at the other end of the joint, and the second retaining ring and the second protrusion together form the accommodating groove.

20. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: A second wave is provided at the other end of the joint, and the second wave is used to be connected to the pipeline.

21. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 19, wherein: When the male connector and the female connector are assembled, the second retaining ring is accommodated in the inner cavity of the main body, and its outer circumference abuts against the inner cavity of the main body to provide auxiliary support and fixation for the male connector in the female connector.

22. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 21, wherein: One or more of a check valve, a flow limiting valve or a filter are also arranged in the inner cavity of the main body.

23. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 22, wherein: The jaw has an opening that is smaller than a diameter of the body.

24. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: After the male and female connectors are assembled, the male connector can rotate in the female connector. This configuration allows the two connectors to have greater freedom of movement and avoids entanglement of the pipes connected thereto.

25. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: After the second protrusion of the male head passes over the first protrusion of the female head, the first protrusion rebounds into the receiving groove. During this process, the operator determines that the female head and the male head have been installed by feeling the change in force and / or hearing the collision sound caused by the rebound.

26. The self-locking quick connector according to claim 1, wherein: An indicator arrow is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve for indicating the sliding direction of the sleeve when the self-locking quick connector is unlocked.

27. A self-locking method, characterized in that: The method comprises: (1) providing a self-locking quick connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 26; and (2) The male head is moved along the axis and inserted into the main body of the female head, and the first protrusion is inserted into the receiving groove, and the male head and the female head are locked by the snap fit of the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

28. An unlocking method, characterized in that: The method comprises: (1) providing a self-locking quick connector according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the self-locking quick connector is in a self-locking state; and (2) Slide the sleeve in a direction away from the male head, and the retaining bar drives the rib of the convex rib to slide, thereby causing the C-ring to retreat, and the first protrusion to expand outward and withdraw from the receiving groove, and the female head and the male head are released from engagement.

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