Connector and powered device

Abstract

A kind of connector and power device.The connector (400) includes mounting seat (1), electrical terminal (2) and temperature sensor (3).Electrical terminal (2) is fixed on mounting seat (1), and electrical terminal (2) includes oppositely arranged first connecting part (21) and second connecting part (23), first connecting part (21) is used to be electrically connected with external plug connector (500), and second connecting part (23) is used to be electrically connected with external wire.Temperature sensor (3) is in contact with electrical terminal (2), and is used to detect the temperature of electrical terminal (2).The connector can detect the temperature of electrical terminal, to help user to find that the connector works abnormally in time, improve use safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of energy storage device technology, and in particular to a connector and an electrical device. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of modern society and the improvement of people's living standards, the popularity of vehicles is becoming more and more widespread, and vehicle production and sales are rising rapidly.

[0003] In existing technology, electrical components in vehicles are connected to the battery via connectors for quick plugging and unplugging. During vehicle use, malfunction of the connectors can lead to abnormal vehicle operation, potentially causing safety accidents.

[0004] Improving the safety of connectors is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a connector and an electrical device designed to improve safety.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a connector, including a mounting base, electrical terminals, and a temperature sensor. The electrical terminals are fixed to the mounting base and include a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion disposed opposite to each other. The first connecting portion is used for electrical connection with an external connector, and the second connecting portion is used for electrical connection with an external wire. The temperature sensor contacts the electrical terminals and is used to detect the temperature of the electrical terminals.

[0007] In the above solution, by setting a temperature sensor that is in direct contact with the power terminal, the temperature of the power terminal can be detected, which helps users to detect abnormalities in the connector in a timely manner, avoid safety accidents caused by abnormal connector operation, and improve safety.

[0008] In some embodiments, the power terminal further includes a middle portion, and the first connecting portion, the middle portion, and the second connecting portion are connected sequentially along a first direction, with the temperature sensor in contact with the middle portion.

[0009] In the above solution, by contacting the temperature sensor with the middle part of the power terminal, it is convenient for the first connection part to be electrically connected to the external connector, and for the second connection part to be electrically connected to the external wire.

[0010] In some embodiments, the power terminal has a mounting hole located in the middle; the temperature sensor is at least partially housed within the mounting hole.

[0011] In the above solution, by accommodating the temperature sensor in the mounting hole, the relative position of the temperature sensor and the power terminal is stabilized, and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is closer to the actual temperature of the power terminal, thus improving the detection accuracy; the mounting hole provides space to accommodate the temperature sensor, which is beneficial for the miniaturization of the connector.

[0012] In some embodiments, the mounting base has a through channel extending in a first direction. The connector further includes a signal line, one end of which is electrically connected to a temperature sensor, and the other end passes through the through channel and is used for electrical connection to an external controller. Data collected by the temperature sensor can be transmitted to the external controller via the signal line, allowing the external controller to process the data. The signal line passing through the through channel constrains the signal line, preventing it from interfering with the connection between the electrical terminals and external connectors. Furthermore, when the mounting base is used to mount other components, the signal line prevents it from obstructing the connection between the mounting base and other components.

[0013] In some embodiments, the connector further includes a seal with a through-hole through which the signal wire passes, and the seal is disposed within the communication channel to seal the communication channel. The seal prevents moisture, foreign objects, etc., from moving from one side of the mounting base to the other side through the communication channel.

[0014] In some embodiments, the seal includes a main body and a protrusion on the main body, the main body and the protrusion being received in a communication channel, and the protrusion being configured to abut against the inner wall surface of the communication channel. By abutting against the inner wall surface of the communication channel, the protrusion is configured to abut against the inner wall surface of the communication channel. The protrusion can abut between the main body and the inner wall surface of the communication channel, thereby sealing the communication channel.

[0015] In some embodiments, the seal further includes a cover portion connected to the main body portion. The communication channel includes a guide cavity and a receiving cavity that are connected. Along the direction from the guide cavity to the receiving cavity, the radial dimension of the guide cavity gradually decreases. The cover portion is adapted to the guide cavity, and the main body portion and the protrusion are received within the receiving cavity. The guide cavity with its gradually decreasing radial dimension facilitates the insertion of the seal into the communication channel. The adaptation of the cover portion to the guide cavity enables the cover portion to prevent moisture and foreign objects from entering the communication channel, further improving the sealing performance of the seal in sealing the communication channel.

[0016] In some embodiments, the mounting base includes a mounting cavity with a notch, a central portion of which is inserted into the mounting cavity and connected to the mounting base. Mounting holes are correspondingly positioned to the notch, and signal lines pass sequentially through the connecting channel and the notch to electrically connect to the temperature sensor. The mounting cavity can restrict the movement of the power terminals, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the power terminals and the mounting base. The corresponding mounting holes and notches allow the temperature sensor to be installed within the mounting holes through the notches, facilitating sensor installation and preventing interference between the fixed portion of the mounting base and the power terminals and the signal line routing.

[0017] In some embodiments, the mounting base further includes a fixing boss protruding from the inner wall surface of the mounting cavity, and the power connection terminal includes a first limiting boss and a second limiting boss protruding from the middle portion, with a limiting groove adapted to the fixing boss formed between the first limiting boss and the second limiting boss. By providing the adapted fixing boss, the first limiting boss and the second limiting boss, displacement of the power connection terminal and the mounting base along the first direction is prevented, improving the stability of the connection between the middle portion and the mounting base.

[0018] In some embodiments, the mounting hole penetrates the second limiting boss. Since the second limiting boss protrudes from the middle portion, the radial dimension of the power terminal on the second limiting boss is greater than the radial dimension at the limiting groove. By setting the mounting hole on the second limiting boss, a mounting hole with a larger depth can be opened, which facilitates the installation of a larger temperature sensor in the mounting hole.

[0019] In some embodiments, the temperature sensor is interference-fitted to the inner wall of the mounting hole. This ensures a stable connection between the temperature sensor and the intermediate part, and also increases the direct contact area between the temperature sensor and the power terminal, which is beneficial for heat conduction between the temperature sensor and the power terminal.

[0020] In some embodiments, the connector further includes a limiting member disposed on the mounting base. The limiting member, the mounting base, and the power terminals together form a limiting space that connects the mounting hole and the communication channel, and a portion of the signal line is accommodated within the limiting space. By setting the limiting member, the temperature sensor and a portion of the signal line can only move within the limiting space, thereby being limited by the limiting member, protecting the temperature sensor from external forces or interference from external impurities, and preventing the temperature sensor 3 from moving out of the mounting hole, which would lead to inaccurate temperature data.

[0021] In some embodiments, there are multiple electrical terminals and temperature sensors, with each temperature sensor corresponding to a specific electrical terminal, thereby enabling the temperature of each electrical terminal to be detected and improving the accuracy of the detection.

[0022] Secondly, this application provides an electrical device, including: an electrical component, a battery, a controller, and a connector according to any embodiment of the first aspect; the controller is used to control the operation of the electrical device; the battery is used to provide electrical energy to the electrical component; one of the first connecting part and the second connecting part is electrically connected to the battery, and the other is electrically connected to the electrical component; a temperature sensor is signal-connected to the controller. The connector enables electrical connection between the battery and the electrical component, while the temperature sensor transmits detected temperature data to the controller, facilitating the controller to control the operation of the electrical device based on the temperature data.

[0023] The above description is only an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to better understand the technical means of this application and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this application more obvious and understandable, the following are specific embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle structure according to some embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of a battery according to some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connector according to some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a partial disassembly diagram of the connector in some embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic planar structure diagram of the connector and external plug-in component in the assembled state according to some embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the temperature sensor and signal line according to some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the connectors and external plugs in the assembled state according to some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 7 An enlarged structural diagram of part A shown;

[0033] Figure 9 for Figure 7 An enlarged structural diagram of part B shown;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the connector and external plug-in component in the assembled state according to some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A magnified structural diagram of part C shown;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the disassembled structure of the connectors in some embodiments of this application;

[0037] The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0038] Marking description: Vehicle 1000; Battery 100; Controller 200; Motor 300; Connector 400; Plug 500; Top cover 10; Battery cell 20; Bottom cover 30;

[0039] Mounting base 1; Mounting plate 11; Fastener 12; Base plate 121; Side plate 122; Connecting channel 13; Guide cavity 131; Receiving cavity 132; Mounting cavity 14; Notch 141; Fixing boss 15;

[0040] Electrical terminal 2; first connecting part 21; middle part 22; second connecting part 23; mounting hole 24; first limiting boss 25; second limiting boss 26;

[0041] Temperature sensor 3; signal line 4; seal 5; main body 51; protrusion 52; cover 53; limiting member 6, limiting cover 61; limiting ring 62; limiting space 63. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The detailed description of the following embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the principles of this application by way of example, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application, that is, this application is not limited to the described embodiments.

[0043] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are only for the convenience of describing this application 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 on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. "Vertical" is not vertical in the strict sense, but within the allowable tolerance range. "Parallel" is not parallel in the strict sense, but within the allowable tolerance range.

[0044] The directional terms used in the following description refer to the directions shown in the figures and are not intended to limit the specific structure of this application. It should also be noted in the description of this application that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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 direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0045] In this application, the battery cell may include a lithium-ion rechargeable battery cell, a lithium-ion primary battery cell, a lithium-sulfur battery, a sodium-lithium-ion battery, a sodium-ion battery, or a magnesium-ion battery, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this. The battery cell may be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes, etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this. Battery cells are generally divided into three types according to the packaging method: cylindrical battery cells, cuboid / square battery cells, and pouch battery cells, and the embodiments of this application are not limited to this.

[0046] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module comprising one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery mentioned in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack. A battery generally includes a housing for encapsulating one or more battery cells. The housing prevents liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0047] A battery cell includes an electrode assembly and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly consists of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator. The battery cell primarily functions by the movement of metal ions between the positive and negative electrodes. The positive electrode includes a positive current collector and a positive active material layer. The positive active material layer is coated on the surface of the positive current collector. Current collectors without the positive active material layer protrude beyond those with the coating. These uncoated current collectors are stacked together to form the positive electrode tab. Taking a lithium-ion battery as an example, the positive current collector can be made of aluminum, and the positive active material can be lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary lithium, or lithium manganese oxide, etc. The negative electrode includes a negative current collector and a negative active material layer. The negative active material layer is coated on the surface of the negative current collector. Current collectors without the negative active material layer protrude beyond those with the coating. These uncoated current collectors are stacked together to form the negative electrode tab. The negative current collector can be made of copper, and the negative active material can be carbon or silicon, etc. The separator can be made of PP (polypropylene) or PE (polyethylene), etc. Furthermore, the electrode assembly can be a wound structure or a stacked structure; the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0048] The applicant discovered that existing vehicles require electrical connectors to connect the battery and electrical components for easy battery replacement. These connectors typically consist of mating male and female plugs, one attached to the battery and the other connected to the electrical component. During battery replacement or vehicle repair, the male and female plugs need to be repeatedly plugged and unplugged. Foreign objects may enter between the male and female plugs during this process, causing connector malfunctions and affecting battery performance. After analyzing and studying the connector's structure and operating environment, the applicant found that connector malfunctions can lead to abnormal vehicle operation and potentially safety accidents. Furthermore, existing connectors cannot detect their operational status, preventing users from promptly identifying malfunctions and delaying appropriate intervention.

[0049] Based on the problems discovered by the applicant, the applicant has improved the structure of the electrical connector. The technical solution described in the embodiments of this application is applicable to any scenario that requires electrical connection, such as between a battery and a vehicle, or between a battery and other electrical devices.

[0050] Electrical devices can include vehicles, mobile phones, portable devices, laptops, ships, spacecraft, electric toys, and power tools, etc. Vehicles can be gasoline-powered cars, natural gas-powered cars, or new energy vehicles; new energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. Spacecraft include airplanes, rockets, space shuttles, and spacecraft, etc. Electric toys include stationary or mobile electric toys, such as game consoles, electric car toys, electric ship toys, and electric airplane toys, etc. Power tools include metal cutting power tools, grinding power tools, assembly power tools, and railway power tools, such as electric drills, electric grinders, electric wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric hammers, impact drills, concrete vibrators, and electric planers, etc. This application does not impose any special limitations on the above-mentioned electrical devices.

[0051] For ease of explanation, the following embodiments will be described using a vehicle 1000 as an example of an electrical device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 1 The diagram shows the structural features of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of this application. Please refer to... Figure 1Vehicle 1000 can be a fuel-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or range-extended vehicles, etc. A battery 100 is installed inside vehicle 1000, which can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of vehicle 1000. Battery 100 can be used to power vehicle 1000; for example, battery 100 can serve as the operating power source for vehicle 1000. Vehicle 1000 may also include a controller 200 and a motor 300. Controller 200 controls the battery 100 to supply power to motor 300, for example, to meet the power needs of vehicle 1000 during starting, navigation, and driving. Vehicle 1000 also includes a connector 400 and a plug-in 500 for connection. Battery 100 and motor 300 are electrically connected via connector 400 and plug-in 500. The connector 400 and plug-in 500 are structurally designed to allow users to quickly plug and unplug connector 400 and plug-in 500, facilitating battery 100 replacement.

[0053] In some embodiments of this application, the battery 100 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 1000, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle 1000, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle 1000.

[0054] Figure 2 Exploded views of batteries provided for some embodiments of this application. Please refer to... Figure 2 The battery 100 includes a housing (not shown) and a battery cell 20. In some embodiments, the housing may include an upper cover 10 and a lower cover 30, which are fitted together to define a receiving space for accommodating the battery cell 20. The lower cover 30 may be a hollow structure with one open end, and the upper cover 10 may be a plate-like structure, fitting over the open side of the lower cover 30 so that the upper cover 10 and the lower cover 30 together define the receiving space; alternatively, the upper cover 10 and the lower cover 30 may both be hollow structures with one open side, with the open side of the upper cover 10 fitting over the open side of the lower cover 30. Of course, the housing formed by the upper cover 10 and the lower cover 30 can be of various shapes, such as a cylinder, a cuboid, etc. The battery 100 casing can be directly installed on the vehicle 1000, or it can be connected to the mounting base 400 on the vehicle 1000, thereby fixing the battery 100 to the vehicle 1000. The mounting base 400 and the battery 100 each have a connector 400 and a plug 500, respectively, to enable the battery 100 to supply power to the electrical components in the vehicle 1000.

[0055] In battery 100, there can be multiple battery cells 20, which can be connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner. A mixed connection means that multiple battery cells 20 are connected in both series and parallel configurations. Multiple battery cells 20 can be directly connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner, and then the entire assembly of the multiple battery cells 20 is housed within a casing. Alternatively, battery 100 can also consist of multiple battery cells 20 first connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a battery module, and then multiple battery modules are connected in series, parallel, or in a mixed manner to form a whole, which is then housed within a casing. Battery 100 may also include other structures; for example, it may include a busbar component for electrical connection between the multiple battery cells 20.

[0056] Each battery cell 20 can be a secondary battery cell or a primary battery cell; it can also be a lithium-sulfur battery cell, a sodium-ion battery cell, or a magnesium-ion battery cell, but is not limited to these. The battery cell 20 can be cylindrical, flat, cuboid, or other shapes.

[0057] Please refer to some embodiments of this application as well. Figures 3 to 5 This application provides a connector 400, which includes a mounting base 1, a power terminal 2, and a temperature sensor 3. The power terminal 2 is fixed on the mounting base 1 and includes a first connecting portion 21 and a second connecting portion 23 disposed opposite to each other. The first connecting portion 21 is used for electrical connection with an external connector 500, and the second connecting portion 23 is used for electrical connection with an external wire. The temperature sensor 3 contacts the intermediate portion 22 and is used to detect the temperature of the power terminal 2.

[0058] The connector 400 provided in this application can be used for electrical connection between power supply equipment and electrical user equipment. For ease of description, the following description uses a battery 100 as the power supply equipment and a vehicle 1000 as the electrical user equipment. The connector 400 provided in this application can be installed on the vehicle 1000 and directly or indirectly electrically connected to the electrical components on the vehicle 1000 via wires. Alternatively, it can be installed on the battery 100 and directly or indirectly electrically connected to the electrode terminals of the battery 100 via wires. Those skilled in the art will understand that when the connector 400 provided in this application is connected to the electrical components on the vehicle 1000 via wires, the electrode terminals of the battery 100 are electrically connected to the external connector 500, and the external connector 500 contacts the first connection portion 21, achieving electrical conduction. When the connector 400 provided in this application is connected to the electrode terminals of the battery 100 via wires, the electrical components on the vehicle 1000 are electrically connected to the external connector 500, and the external connector 500 contacts the first connection portion 21, achieving electrical conduction.

[0059] In this application, the wire connected to the second connecting part 23 can be a conductive cable, a conductive line embedded in an insulating structure, or a metal structure with conductive properties. This application does not limit the specific form of the wire, as long as it can achieve electrical connection between the power terminal 2 and the power supply equipment or the electrical device. Similarly, this application does not limit the structure of the external plug 500. The external plug 500 can specifically have a socket, so that the first connecting part 21 can be inserted into the socket to achieve electrical connection with the external plug 500; the external plug 500 can also include a hollow plug, with the first connecting part 21 inserted into the hollow area of ​​the plug to achieve electrical connection with the external plug 500; the external plug 500 can also include a solid plug, with the first connecting part 21 having a hollow structure, and the external plug 500 inserted into the hollow area of ​​the first connecting part 21 to achieve electrical connection with the external plug 500.

[0060] The temperature sensor 3 can specifically be a thermistor, such as a negative temperature coefficient thermistor (NTC) or a positive temperature coefficient thermistor (PTC), meaning the resistance value of the temperature sensor 3 changes with its own temperature. It is understood that the temperature sensor 3 can also be other types, as long as it can detect temperature. Optionally, the temperature sensor 3 is a PT1000 thermistor. When the temperature of the power terminal 2 changes, because the temperature sensor 3 is in contact with the power terminal 2, the temperature of the temperature sensor 3 changes along with the power terminal 2, thereby causing a change in the resistance value of the temperature sensor 3. This change in resistance value can be output as an analog signal or a digital signal, which can be further analyzed to achieve temperature detection of the power terminal 2 by the temperature sensor 3. The temperature sensor 3 can achieve wireless signal connection with an external controller based on a preset communication protocol, and can also achieve wired signal connection with an external controller through signal line 4. Temperature sensor 3 sends the detected data to an external controller, which can then issue a warning or control the operation of battery 100 or vehicle 1000 to prevent safety accidents caused by abnormal operation of connector 400.

[0061] In this application, by setting a temperature sensor 3 that is in direct contact with the power terminal 2, the temperature of the power terminal 2 can be detected, which helps the user to detect abnormal operation of the connector 400 in a timely manner, avoid safety accidents caused by abnormal operation of the connector 400, and improve safety.

[0062] In some embodiments, the power terminal 2 further includes a middle portion 22, and the first connecting portion 21, the middle portion 22, and the second connecting portion 23 are sequentially connected along a first direction X. The temperature sensor 2 contacts the middle portion 22. By contacting the temperature sensor 2 with the middle portion 22 of the power terminal 2, it is convenient for the first connecting portion 21 to be electrically connected to the external connector 500, and for the second connecting portion 23 to be electrically connected to the external wire.

[0063] In some embodiments, the power terminal 2 is provided with a mounting hole 24, which is located in the middle portion 22; the temperature sensor 3 is at least partially accommodated in the mounting hole 24. By providing the mounting hole 24 to accommodate the temperature sensor 3, the relative position of the temperature sensor 3 and the power terminal 2 is stabilized, and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 3 is closer to the actual temperature of the power terminal 2, thus improving detection accuracy. At the same time, the mounting hole 24 provides space to accommodate the temperature sensor 3, which is beneficial for the miniaturization of the connector 400. In particular, when the first connecting portion 21 is a hollow structure and the external plug-in 500 needs to be inserted into the hollow area to achieve electrical connection, if the mounting hole 24 is provided in the first connecting portion 21, the first connecting portion 21 needs to have a thicker wall to open the mounting hole 24 that can accommodate the temperature sensor 3, and to avoid the temperature sensor 3 placed in the mounting hole 24 affecting the insertion of the plug-in 500. A thicker wall is not conducive to the miniaturization design of the connector 400. Therefore, compared with the first connecting portion 21, it is easier to open a mounting hole 24 of sufficient size in the middle portion 22 to accommodate the temperature sensor 3.

[0064] Temperature sensor 3 is placed inside mounting hole 24. Heat conduction between temperature sensor 3 and power terminal 2 can occur through direct contact or through the air between them. The outer surface of temperature sensor 3 can also be coated with thermally conductive adhesive to further facilitate heat conduction between the sensor and power terminal 2, increasing the indirect contact area, improving heat conduction efficiency, and enhancing the timeliness of temperature detection data. Temperature sensor 3 can also be interference-fitted to the inner wall of mounting hole 24. This ensures a stable connection between temperature sensor 3 and intermediate part 22, and further increases the direct contact area between temperature sensor 3 and power terminal 2, which is beneficial for heat conduction between them.

[0065] Please refer to the following: Figure 6 The mounting base 1 has a through channel 13 extending in a first direction. The connector 400 also includes a signal line 4, one end of which is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 3, and the other end passes through the through channel 13 and is used for electrical connection to an external controller.

[0066] Mounting base 1 may include mounting plate 11 and fixing member 12 disposed on mounting plate 11. Mounting plate 11 and fixing member 12 are disposed opposite each other along a first direction. Through holes opened in mounting plate 11 and through holes opened in fixing member 12 communicate to form a communication channel 13. Of course, mounting base 1 may also include more components in addition to mounting plate 11 and fixing member 12. In this case, the communication channel 13 may be formed by the interconnection of through holes opened in multiple components. Signal line 4 is arranged to pass through communication channel 13 so that signal line 4 is constrained by communication channel 13, avoiding signal line 4 from interfering with the connection between electrical terminal 2 and external connector 500. For example, when mounting base 1 needs to be sealed to a conduit bundle containing wires in vehicle 1000, signal line 4 passing through communication channel 13 can prevent signal line 4 from obstructing the sealed connection between mounting base 1 and conduit bundle.

[0067] The external controller can specifically be the vehicle controller of vehicle 1000. The vehicle controller receives detection data sent by various sensors in vehicle 1000 and the user's driving actions to issue control commands to various functional components in vehicle 1000. The data collected by temperature sensor 3 can be transmitted to the external controller via signal line 4, so that the external controller can process the data. For example, if the data collected by temperature sensor 3 is abnormal, the external controller can control the battery 100 electrically connected to connector 400 to power off and control the backup battery to power on; or the external controller can control the display screen to show a warning of connector 400 malfunction to alert the user. In one embodiment, one temperature sensor 3 is connected to two signal lines 4. The two signal lines 4 can pass through the same connecting channel 13 or pass through different connecting channels 13. Those skilled in the art can determine the number and location of connecting channels 13 based on the type of temperature sensor 3 and the location of the external controller connected to the signal lines 4 in vehicle 1000.

[0068] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 The connector 400 also includes a seal 5 with a through hole through which the signal wire 4 passes. The seal 5 is disposed in the communication channel 13 to seal the communication channel 13. The seal 5 seals the communication channel 13, preventing moisture, foreign objects, etc., from moving from one side of the mounting base 1 to the other side through the communication channel 13. For example, when the mounting base 1 and the wire harness bracket housing the wires in the vehicle 1000 are sealed together, the seal 5 seals the communication channel 13, preventing moisture, foreign objects, etc., from entering the wire harness bracket through the communication channel 13, thus avoiding moisture, foreign objects, etc., from affecting the wire harness connection within the wire harness bracket.

[0069] The sealing element 5 includes a main body 51 and a protrusion 52 provided on the main body 51. The main body 51 and the protrusion 52 are housed in a communicating channel 13, and the protrusion 52 is configured to abut against the inner wall surface of the communicating channel 13. The sealing element 5 can be made of an elastic material. When the sealing element 5 is placed in the communicating channel 13, the protrusion 52 undergoes elastic deformation and abuts against the inner wall surface of the main body 51 and the communicating channel 13, thereby sealing the communicating channel 13. To improve the sealing performance of the sealing element 5, the protrusion 52 can be arranged in a ring around the main body 51. The number of annular protrusions 52 can also be multiple, with multiple annular protrusions 52 arranged sequentially at intervals.

[0070] The sealing element 5 also includes a cover portion 53 connected to the main body portion 51. The communication channel 13 includes a guide cavity 131 and a receiving cavity 132 that are connected. Along the direction from the guide cavity 131 toward the receiving cavity 132, the radial dimension of the guide cavity 131 gradually decreases. The cover portion 53 is adapted to the guide cavity 131, and the main body portion 51 and the protrusion 52 are received in the receiving cavity 132.

[0071] The radial dimension of the cover portion 53 can be larger than that of the main body portion 51, so that the cover portion 53 is fitted onto the main body portion 51 in a cap-like shape. The guide cavity 131 with a gradually decreasing radial dimension facilitates the insertion of the sealing element 5 into the connecting channel 13; the cover portion 53 is adapted to the guide cavity 131, so that the cover portion 53 can prevent moisture and foreign objects from entering the connecting channel 13, further improving the sealing performance of the sealing element 5 in sealing the connecting channel 13.

[0072] exist Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting base 1 includes a mounting plate 11 and a fixing member 12 disposed on the mounting plate 11. Both the guide cavity 131 and the receiving cavity 132 are formed on the mounting plate 11. When assembling the connector 400, the sealing member 5 is first sleeved on the outside of the signal line 4, and then the sealing member 5 is inserted into the receiving cavity 132 through the guide cavity 131, so that the cover part 53 abuts against the inner wall surface of the guide cavity 131. Finally, the fixing member 12 with a through hole is disposed on the mounting plate 11, so that the through hole corresponds to the guide cavity 131, so that the signal line 4 can pass through the through hole. The edge of the cover part 53 is disposed between the fixing member 12 and the mounting plate 11, thereby preventing the sealing member 5 from moving outside the communicating channel 13 during the use of the connector 400.

[0073] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 10 The mounting base 1 includes a mounting cavity 14 with a notch 141. The middle part 22 is inserted into the mounting cavity 14 and connected to the mounting base 1. The mounting hole 24 is correspondingly provided with the notch 141. The signal line 4 passes through the connecting channel 13 and the notch 141 in sequence and is electrically connected to the temperature sensor 3.

[0074] Optionally, the fastener 12 includes a base plate 121 disposed opposite to the mounting plate 11 and a side plate 122 extending from the base plate 121 by bending. The side plate 122 surrounds and forms a mounting cavity 14. A notch 141 communicating with the mounting cavity 14 is provided on the side plate 122, and the side plate 122 is arranged around the outside of the power terminal 2. Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the power terminal 2 is cylindrical, and correspondingly, the side plate 122 forms an annular shape with a notch 141 around the power terminal 2. The inner wall of the mounting cavity 14 can restrict the movement of the power terminal 2, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the power terminal 2 and the mounting base 1. The mounting hole 24 is correspondingly provided with the notch 141, so that the temperature sensor 3 can be installed in the mounting hole 24 through the notch 141, which facilitates the installation of the temperature sensor 3 and can also avoid interference with the direction of the signal line 4 when the mounting base 1 is connected to the power terminal 2.

[0075] In some embodiments, the mounting base 1 further includes a fixing boss 15 protruding from the inner wall surface of the mounting cavity 14, and the power terminal 2 further includes a first limiting boss 25 and a second limiting boss 26 protruding from the middle portion 22, with a limiting groove (not shown) formed between the first limiting boss 25 and the second limiting boss 26 to fit the fixing boss 15.

[0076] The fixed boss 15 can be a semi-circular ring protruding from the side plate 122, and the first limiting boss 25 and the second limiting boss 26 can each be arranged in a ring shape. During assembly, the power terminal 2 can be moved into the mounting cavity 14 through the notch 141, while the fixed boss 15, the first limiting boss 25 and the second limiting boss 26 engage with each other. By setting the matching fixed boss 15, the first limiting boss 25 and the second limiting boss 26, displacement of the power terminal 2 and the mounting base 1 along the first direction X is prevented, improving the stability of the connection between the middle part 22 and the mounting base 1.

[0077] In some embodiments, the mounting hole 24 penetrates the second limiting boss 26. Since the second limiting boss 26 protrudes from the middle portion 22, the radial dimension of the power terminal 2 on the second limiting boss 26 is greater than the radial dimension at the limiting groove. By setting the mounting hole 24 on the second limiting boss 26, a mounting hole 24 with a larger depth can be opened, which facilitates the installation of a larger temperature sensor 3 in the mounting hole 24.

[0078] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 In some other embodiments, the connector 400 also includes a limiting member 6 disposed on the mounting base 1. The limiting member 6, the mounting base 1 and the power terminal 2 together form a limiting space 63 that connects the mounting hole 24 and the connecting channel 13, and a portion of the signal line 4 is accommodated within the limiting space 63.

[0079] The limiting member 6 includes a limiting cover 61 and a limiting ring 62 connected to each other. The limiting cover 61 covers the side of the fixing member 12 near the first connecting portion 21. The limiting cover 61 has a limiting hole adapted to the power terminal 2, so that the power terminal 2 can pass through the limiting hole and connect to the fixing member 12. The limiting ring 62 bends and extends from the inner wall of the limiting hole, so that the limiting ring 62 can be arranged around the first connecting portion 21, thereby limiting the first connecting portion 21. In one embodiment, the limiting space 63 is formed between the limiting cover 61, the base plate 121 and the power terminal 2. The temperature sensor 3 can be partially housed in the mounting hole 24 and partially housed in the limiting space 63. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 3 can be entirely housed in the mounting hole 24. The signal line 4 extending from the communicating channel 13 can be housed in the limiting space 63 and connected to the temperature sensor 3.

[0080] By setting the limiting member 6, the temperature sensor 3 and part of the signal line 4 can only move within the limiting space 63, thus being limited by the limiting member 6. This protects the temperature sensor 3 from external forces or interference from external impurities, and also prevents the temperature sensor 3 from moving out of the mounting hole 24, which would lead to inaccurate temperature data. Those skilled in the art will understand that the higher the fit between the shape of the limiting space 63 and the direction of the signal line 4, or the higher the fit between the shape and the mounting position of the temperature sensor 3, the better the limiting effect of the limiting member 6 on the temperature sensor 3 and the signal line 4. Therefore, the limiting space 63 can also be configured with a first limiting groove adapted to the signal line 4, so that part of the signal line 4 can only be distributed along the extension direction of the first limiting groove; or the limiting space 6 can be configured with a second limiting groove adapted to the outer surface of the temperature sensor 3, so that the end of the temperature sensor 3 connected to the signal line 4 can only move within the second limiting groove.

[0081] In some embodiments, there are multiple electrical terminals 2 and temperature sensors 3, with each temperature sensor 3 corresponding to one of the electrical terminals 2, thereby enabling temperature detection at each electrical terminal 2 and improving detection accuracy. Figure 11 In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 400 includes three electrical terminals 2, and three temperature sensors 3 respectively contact the three electrical terminals 2 and are installed in the corresponding mounting holes 24. Simultaneously, the signal lines 4 connected to the three temperature sensors 3 pass through three connecting channels 13. Of course, to reduce the number of openings on the mounting base 1, the signal lines 4 connecting multiple temperature sensors 3 can be passed through the same connecting channel 13.

[0082] Secondly, this application provides an electrical device. Please refer again. Figure 1The electrical device includes an electrical component, a controller 200, and a battery 100. The controller 200 is used to control the operation of the electrical device; the battery 100 is used to provide power to the electrical component; according to the connector 400 described above, one of the first connection part 21 and the second connection part 23 is electrically connected to the battery 100, and the other is electrically connected to the electrical component; the temperature sensor 3 is signal connected to the controller 200.

[0083] The electrical device can be any of the aforementioned devices or systems using battery 100. The electrical components are the various functional parts installed in the electrical device. Each electrical component can be adapted to the connector 400 via a plug 500. Specifically, the electrical component can be a battery base with a plug 500, or a motor 300 with a plug 500, etc. Electrical connection between the battery and the electrical component can be achieved through the connector 400. At the same time, the temperature sensor 3 can transmit the detected temperature data to the controller 200, so that the controller 200 can control the operation of the electrical device based on the temperature data.

[0084] According to some embodiments of this application, see Figures 3 to 5 This application provides a connector 400, which includes a mounting base 1, a power terminal 2, and a temperature sensor 3. The power terminal 2 is fixed on the mounting base 1 and includes a first connecting portion 21, a middle portion 22, and a second connecting portion 23 connected sequentially along a first direction X. The first connecting portion 21 is used for electrical connection with an external connector, and the second connecting portion 23 is used for electrical connection with an external wire. The temperature sensor 3 contacts the middle portion 22 and is used to detect the temperature of the power terminal 2. By setting the temperature sensor 3 to directly contact the power terminal 2, the temperature of the power terminal 2 can be obtained, which helps the user to detect abnormal operation of the connector 400 in a timely manner and avoid safety accidents caused by abnormal operation of the connector 400. By setting the temperature sensor 3 to contact the middle portion 22 of the power terminal 2, the temperature sensor 3 is prevented from interfering with the electrical connection between the first connecting portion 21 and the external connector, and from interfering with the electrical connection between the second connecting portion 23 and the external wire.

[0085] Although this application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications can be made thereto and components can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of this application. In particular, the technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any manner, provided there is no structural conflict. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electrical device, comprising an electrical component, a controller, a battery, and a connector; The controller is used to control the operation of the electrical device; The battery is used to provide power to the electrical component; the connector includes: Mounting base; A power terminal is fixed on the mounting base. The power terminal includes a first connecting part and a second connecting part that are disposed opposite to each other. The first connecting part is used to electrically connect with an external connector, and the second connecting part is used to electrically connect with an external wire. A temperature sensor is in contact with the electrical terminal and is used to detect the temperature of the electrical terminal; The power terminal also includes a middle portion, and the first connecting portion, the middle portion, and the second connecting portion are connected sequentially along a first direction, and the temperature sensor is in contact with the middle portion; One of the first connecting part and the second connecting part is electrically connected to the battery, and the other is electrically connected to the electrical component. The temperature sensor is signal-connected to the controller. If the data collected by the temperature sensor is abnormal, the controller controls the battery electrically connected to the connector to power off. The mounting base has a through channel extending in a first direction. The mounting base includes a mounting cavity with a notch. The middle part is inserted into the mounting cavity and connected to the mounting base. The mounting hole is provided corresponding to the notch. The signal line passes through the through channel and the notch in sequence and is electrically connected to the temperature sensor.

2. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The power terminal is provided with a mounting hole, which is located in the middle part; the temperature sensor is at least partially accommodated in the mounting hole.

3. The electrical appliance according to claim 2, wherein, The connector also includes a signal line, one end of which is electrically connected to the temperature sensor, and the other end passes through the communication channel and is used for electrical connection to an external controller.

4. The electrical appliance according to claim 3, wherein, The connector also includes a seal with a through-hole through which the signal line passes, and the seal is disposed in the communication channel to seal the communication channel.

5. The electrical appliance according to claim 4, wherein, The seal includes a main body and a protrusion on the main body, the main body and the protrusion being received in the communication channel, and the protrusion being configured to abut against the inner wall surface of the communication channel.

6. The electrical appliance according to claim 5, wherein, The sealing element also includes a cover portion connected to the main body portion. The communication channel includes a guide cavity and a receiving cavity that are connected. Along the direction of the guide cavity toward the receiving cavity, the radial dimension of the guide cavity gradually decreases. The cover portion is adapted to the guide cavity, and the main body portion and the protrusion are received in the receiving cavity.

7. The electrical appliance according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting base also includes a fixing boss that protrudes from the inner wall of the mounting cavity, and the power terminal also includes a first limiting boss and a second limiting boss that protrude from the middle part, with a limiting groove formed between the first limiting boss and the second limiting boss that is adapted to the fixing boss.

8. The electrical appliance according to claim 7, wherein, The mounting hole penetrates the second limiting boss.

9. The electrical appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The temperature sensor is interference-fitted to the inner wall of the mounting hole.

10. The electrical appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The connector also includes a limiting member disposed on the mounting base. The limiting member, the mounting base, and the power terminal together form a limiting space that connects the mounting hole and the communication channel, and a portion of the signal line is accommodated within the limiting space.

11. The electrical appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The number of the power terminals and the temperature sensors is multiple, and the multiple temperature sensors are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the power terminals.

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