A connector

Abstract

The application provides a connector, which comprises a shell with a first plug-in end and a second plug-in end in communication, a first terminal assembly plugged into the shell along the first plug-in end, and a second terminal assembly plugged into the shell along the second plug-in end, and further comprises a connecting assembly connected to the first terminal assembly at one end and connected to the second terminal assembly at the other end. The connecting assembly comprises a third conductive piece connected to the first terminal assembly at one end and to the second terminal assembly at the other end, and a sleeve piece with a pin structure plugged into the first terminal assembly and an accommodating slot in the sleeve piece for accommodating the third conductive piece and wrapping the third conductive piece. The third conductive pieces are arranged adjacent to each other in parallel, and an insulation gap is formed between adjacent accommodating slots, and the pin structure is arranged in the insulation gap and adjacent to the pin structure. The above structure realizes various plug-in structures and close cooperation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of connectors, and more particularly to a connector. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of high-voltage platforms and high-power charging technologies for new energy vehicles, connectors must simultaneously meet electrical performance, mechanical stability, and space constraints. Electrical performance requires carrying large currents, necessitating multiple conductive channels connected in parallel to reduce contact resistance. Mechanical stability refers to the ability of the mating interface to resist fretting corrosion under vehicle vibration environments. Space constraints arise from the compression of installation space for battery packs or motor controllers.

[0003] To meet the requirements of electrical performance and mechanical stability, existing technologies often use multiple mating structures. However, increasing the number of mating structures inevitably increases the size of the connector. In practical applications, this manifests as the simultaneous placement of conductive elements and independent pins, typically requiring two separate areas arranged side-by-side within the connector cross-section—one for the conductive elements and one for the pins. This results in an increase in the cross-sectional dimensions.

[0004] Therefore, a connector with multiple mating structures and a tight fit is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, it is necessary to provide a connector with multiple mating structures and a tight fit to solve the above problems.

[0006] Embodiments of this application provide a connector, including a housing having a communicating first plug end and a second plug end, a first terminal assembly inserted into the housing along the first plug end, and a second terminal assembly inserted into the housing along the second plug end. The connector further includes:

[0007] A connecting component, one end of which is connected to a first terminal assembly, and the other end of which is connected to a second terminal assembly, the connecting component comprising:

[0008] The third conductive component has one end inserted into the first terminal assembly and the other end attached to the second terminal assembly;

[0009] The socket has a pin structure for insertion into the first terminal assembly and an internal receiving groove for accommodating a third conductive element, and encloses the third conductive element.

[0010] The third conductive element is arranged side by side with adjacent receiving grooves, and an insulating gap is formed between adjacent receiving grooves. The pin structure is disposed in the insulating gap and arranged side by side with the pin structure.

[0011] In at least one embodiment of this application, the socket is integrally formed, the insertion direction of the pin structure is the same as the insertion direction of the third conductive element, and the third conductive element abuts against the receiving groove along the insertion direction.

[0012] In at least one embodiment of this application, a first positioning structure is provided circumferentially on the outer surface of the socket, and the first positioning structure abuts against the circumferential of the housing to fix the socket and ensure the accuracy of the insertion position.

[0013] In at least one embodiment of this application, when the first positioning structure is discontinuous, the first positioning structure is located at the corner of two side-by-side receiving slots and the pin structure, respectively.

[0014] In at least one embodiment of this application, the first terminal assembly includes a first conductive member and a plug sleeve that are plugged into the connecting assembly, wherein a limiting groove is formed in the plug sleeve, and the first conductive member passes through the limiting groove;

[0015] The first conductive element includes:

[0016] The first insertion part, the two first insertion parts are respectively provided with the limiting groove, and are inserted into the third conductive element;

[0017] The second insertion part is arranged side by side with the first insertion part and is inserted into the pin structure;

[0018] The second positioning structure is integrally formed with the outer surface of the first insertion part. The first insertion part is located on the side opposite to the adjacent first insertion part, and the second positioning structure is symmetrically arranged. The second positioning structure abuts against the insertion sleeve along the insertion direction.

[0019] The third positioning structure is integrally formed with the outer surface of the second insertion part and is perpendicular to the second positioning structure. The third positioning structure abuts against the insertion sleeve along the insertion direction.

[0020] The second positioning structure and the third positioning structure are combined to form a circumferential positioning structure for the first conductive element and the plug sleeve.

[0021] In at least one embodiment of this application, both the first insertion portion and the second insertion portion are provided with shrinkage grooves, and the shrinkage grooves are respectively connected to the second positioning structure and the third positioning structure;

[0022] When the first insertion part and the second insertion part are respectively inserted into the insertion sleeve, the insertion sleeve applies a squeezing force to the second positioning structure and the third positioning structure respectively. The second positioning structure and the third positioning structure retract into the shrinkage groove to insert into the insertion sleeve and form an abutment with the insertion sleeve in the insertion direction.

[0023] In at least one embodiment of this application, the first terminal assembly further includes:

[0024] The sealing element is integrally formed with the first plug-in portion and the second plug-in portion respectively. The sealing element is close to the starting end of the first conductive element that passes through the limiting groove, and the sealing element is interference-fitted with the limiting groove to isolate the external environment and the internal environment of the connector.

[0025] In at least one embodiment of this application, the third conductive element includes:

[0026] A first contact end that is plugged into the first conductive element and a second contact end that is plugged into the second terminal assembly, wherein the first contact end and the second contact end are connected;

[0027] The first contact end is inserted into the third conductive element, and the second contact end is attached to the second terminal assembly. The second contact end is provided with a protruding structure that is attached to the second terminal assembly.

[0028] In at least one embodiment of this application, the connector further includes:

[0029] A handle is mounted on the outer surface of the housing and can rotate relative to the housing. One end of the handle is located at the first insertion end, and in the locked state, the other end of the handle is located at the second insertion end and abuts against the housing.

[0030] A locking guide is installed on the outer surface of the housing and is slidably connected to and abuts against the housing. In the locked state, the locking guide is inserted into the handle and extends into the second insertion end, abutting against the handle and the housing respectively.

[0031] In at least one embodiment of this application, the connector may be a connector of any shape, such as a bent connector or a through connector.

[0032] The advantages of the connector provided above are as follows:

[0033] Two third conductive elements are arranged side-by-side within the receiving groove of the socket. The gap between adjacent receiving grooves is directly utilized, allowing the pin structure and the third conductive elements to be arranged side-by-side on the same horizontal cross-section. This transforms the gap on the socket originally used for insulating the two third conductive elements into a functional area for the pin, without requiring additional cross-sectional space. Furthermore, the electrical connection of the conductive elements and the mechanical reinforcement of the pin coexist within the same vertical layer, rather than being stacked in multiple layers.

[0034] The receiving groove of the socket encloses and secures the third conductive element, providing insulation protection. When the third conductive element is a clamping member with multiple pin structures, the plate pins expand the pin structures when inserted with the first insertion part (plate pin). Because the pin structures are located within the receiving groove, the receiving groove inserts the pin structures. The first terminal assembly of the connector inserts into the third conductive element through one of the electrical paths of the connector, and the first terminal assembly of the connector inserts into the socket pins through the mechanical path of the connector. The connection of the electrical and mechanical paths is completed by sharing the same insertion action, eliminating the need for separate steps. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the connector described in this application as having a through-hole shape;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a front view of the connector described in this application, which is in a through-hole shape.

[0037] Figure 3 The connector described in this application is a top view in a straight-insertion shape;

[0038] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Sectional view of AA;

[0039] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Sectional view of BB;

[0040] Figure 6 for Figure 3 Sectional view of CC;

[0041] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the connector described in this application with the second terminal assembly removed from its through-hole shape;

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the second terminal assembly and the connecting assembly in the through-hole shape of the connector described in this application;

[0043] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the socket described in this application;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a top view of the locking guide described in this application;

[0045] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the locking guide described in this application;

[0046] Figure 12 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connector described in this application in a bent shape;

[0047] Figure 13 This is an assembly diagram of the first terminal assembly, the second terminal assembly, and the connecting assembly in the bent shape of the connector described in this application;

[0048] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the second terminal assembly and the connecting assembly in the bent shape of the connector described in this application;

[0049] Explanation of main component symbols

[0050] 100. Connector; 10. Housing; 11. First plug-in terminal; 12. Second plug-in terminal; 13. Inner shell; 14. Outer shell; 20. First terminal assembly; 21. First conductive element; 211. First plug-in portion; 2111. Plate pin; 2112. Limiting element; 2113. Second positioning structure; 212. Second plug-in portion; 2121. Third positioning structure; 215. Shrinkage groove; 22. Plug-in sleeve; 221. Limiting element 222, groove; 23, receiving shell; 30, seal; 31, second terminal assembly; 32, second conductive element; 40, sealing shell; 41, connecting assembly; 41, third conductive element; 411, first contact end; 412, second contact end; 413, protrusion structure; 42, socket; 421, pin structure; 422, receiving groove; 423, insulation gap; 424, first positioning structure; 50, handle; 60, locking guide. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0052] It should be noted that when a component is considered to be "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or may also have an intervening component. When a component is considered to be "placed" on another component, it can be directly placed on the other component or may also have an intervening component. The terms "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "back," and similar expressions used in this article are for illustrative purposes only.

[0053] This application provides a connector, including a housing with a communicating first plug-in end and a second plug-in end, a first conductive element inserted into the housing along the first plug-in end, and a second terminal assembly inserted into the housing along the second plug-in end. The connector further includes a connecting assembly. One end of the connecting assembly is connected to the first terminal assembly, and the other end of the connecting assembly is connected to the second terminal assembly. The connecting assembly includes a third conductive element and a socket. One end of the third conductive element is plugged into the first conductive element, and the other end of the third conductive element is fitted and connected to the second terminal assembly. The socket includes a pin structure and a receiving groove. The pin structure is plugged into the first conductive element. The pin structure has a receiving groove inside, which accommodates the third conductive element. Two third conductive elements are arranged side-by-side, with a gap formed between adjacent receiving grooves. The pin structure is disposed in the gap and arranged side-by-side with the plug structure.

[0054] Two third conductive elements are arranged side-by-side within the receiving groove of the socket. The gap between adjacent receiving grooves is directly utilized, allowing the pin structure and the third conductive elements to be arranged side-by-side on the same horizontal cross-section. This transforms the gap on the socket originally used for insulating the two third conductive elements into a functional area for the pin, without requiring additional cross-sectional space. Furthermore, the electrical connection of the conductive elements and the mechanical reinforcement of the pin coexist within the same vertical layer, rather than being stacked in multiple layers.

[0055] The receiving groove of the socket encloses and secures the third conductive element, providing insulation protection. When the third conductive element is a clamping member with multiple pin structures, the plate pins expand the pin structures when inserted with the first insertion part (plate pin). Because the pin structures are located within the receiving groove, the receiving groove inserts the pin structures. The first terminal assembly of the connector inserts into the third conductive element through one of the electrical paths of the connector, and the first terminal assembly of the connector inserts into the socket pins through the mechanical path of the connector. The connection of the electrical and mechanical paths is completed by sharing the same insertion action, eliminating the need for separate steps.

[0056] The following detailed description of some embodiments of this application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0057] Please see Figures 1-14This application provides a connector 100, which includes a housing 10 having a first insertion end 11 and a second insertion end 12 in communication, a second terminal assembly 30 inserted into the housing 10 along the first insertion end 11 and including a first conductive element 21, and inserted into the housing 10 along the second insertion end 12. The connector 100 also includes a connecting assembly 40. One end of the connecting assembly 40 is connected to the first terminal assembly 20, and the other end of the connecting assembly 40 is connected to the second terminal assembly 30. The connecting assembly 40 includes a third conductive element 41 and a socket 42. One end of the third conductive element 41 is inserted into the first conductive element 21, and the other end of the third conductive element 41 is fitted and connected to the second terminal assembly 30. The socket 42 includes a pin structure 421 and a receiving groove 422. The pin structure 421 is inserted into the first conductive element 21. The receiving groove 422 is formed inside the pin structure 421, and the receiving groove 422 accommodates the third conductive element 41. The two third conductive elements 41 are arranged side by side, and a gap is formed between adjacent receiving grooves 422. The pin structure 421 is disposed in the gap and is arranged side by side with the plug structure.

[0058] The housing 10 has a first plug-in end 11 and a second plug-in end 12 opposite to each other.

[0059] The first terminal assembly 20, disposed at the first plug-in end 11 of the housing 10, includes a first conductive element 21 and a first insulating element for fixed connection thereto. The first conductive element 21 includes a first plug-in portion 211 that plugs into the controller-side female connector, and a second plug-in portion 212 disposed within the housing 10. The first insulating element is a plug sleeve 22.

[0060] The second terminal assembly 30 is disposed at the second plug-in end 12 of the housing 10, and includes a second conductive element 31 and a second insulating element for connecting to a cable.

[0061] The connecting component 40 is disposed between the first terminal component 20 and the second terminal component 30, and includes a third conductive member 41 and a socket 42, wherein the two ends of the third conductive member 41 are respectively attached to the second insertion portion 212 of the first conductive member 21 and the second conductive member 31 to form a current path.

[0062] Furthermore, the housing 10 is provided with an isolation structure to physically isolate the first conductive element 21 from the second conductive element 31, ensuring a clear conduction path and preventing short circuits.

[0063] The third conductive element 41 in the connection assembly 40 is an elastic metal sheet structure with clamping arms at both ends for elastically clamping the plug-in part, and a protrusion structure on the contact surface to enhance contact stability.

[0064] The socket 42 is an insulating body with two opposing receiving grooves 422 for limiting the third conductive member 41. An insulating gap 423 is formed between the receiving grooves 422. A pin structure 421 is provided in the insulating gap 423. The pin structure 421 is used to insert into the second insertion part 212 of the first conductive member 21 to form an electrical connection.

[0065] In this embodiment, the socket 42 in the connecting assembly 40 is an integrally formed structure with multiple receiving grooves 422 extending along the insertion direction. Each receiving groove 422 is used to fix and cover a third conductive element 41 to form independent conductive channels. Due to structural isolation requirements, an insulating gap 423 is naturally formed between adjacent receiving grooves 422. This insulating gap 423 is essentially a non-conductive area used to achieve electrical insulation between conductive elements. To improve structural utilization, the pin structure 421 is disposed in the insulating gap 423 and arranged side by side with the third conductive element 41 in the same horizontal cross section. Thus, without increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the connector 100, the conductive connection path and mechanical positioning structure are combined, balancing electrical performance and space compactness. The above structure not only effectively improves the integration and insulation safety of the connector 100, but also simplifies the insertion action and improves assembly efficiency.

[0066] Preferably, there is no electrical connection between the pin structure 421 and the third conductive element 41, and it is only used for mechanical positioning or as an additional signal channel.

[0067] Furthermore, the second terminal assembly 30 is connected to a cable, the conductor of which passes through the receiving groove 422 of the sleeve 42 and forms an elastic crimp with the third conductive member 41 to complete the electrical connection.

[0068] The other end of the third conductive element 41 is bonded to the second terminal assembly 30, wherein the bonding connection refers to a non-rigid connection structure, which is mechanically bonded by elastic pressing, contact protrusions or other means that can achieve stable conductivity.

[0069] In an alternative embodiment, the connector 100 assembly further includes a locking mechanism, comprising:

[0070] In this embodiment, the connector 100 further includes a locking mechanism for quick locking and releasing. The locking mechanism includes a handle 50 and a locking guide 60, both of which are disposed on the outer surface of the housing 10 and work together to ensure a stable connection between the first terminal assembly 20 and the second terminal assembly 30 after insertion.

[0071] The handle 50 is an arc-shaped structure with one end located at the first insertion end 11. It is hinged or pivotally connected to the housing 10 via a pivot or rotating connector, allowing it to rotate relative to the housing 10. The other end of the handle 50 extends to the second insertion end 12 in the locked state and abuts against the housing 10, forming a complete locking outer ring.

[0072] The locking guide 60 is disposed on the outer side of the housing 10 and is slidably connected to the housing 10, preferably slidingly fitted along the axial direction of the housing 10 or the insertion direction. The front end of the locking guide 60 is inserted into the handle 50 in the locked state and further extends into the second insertion end 12, simultaneously abutting against the handle 50 and the housing 10, thereby forming three-point positioning and pressing in space.

[0073] In actual operation, when the user rotates the handle 50 from the initial position to the locking direction, the inclined surface or limiting post of the handle 50 engages with the locking guide 60 and applies an axial clamping force. Under the action of the clamping force, the locking guide 60 undergoes elastic deformation, disengaging from its original abutment state with the housing 10, overcoming the engagement resistance, and sliding forward until it enters the pop-out state.

[0074] After the locking guide 60 pops out, it can be pushed along the slide rail setting direction. The locking guide 60 moves forward along the sliding direction of the abutment, enters the handle 50 and extends into the second insertion end 12, abutting against the limiting structure of the housing 10, thereby completing the locking operation. This process, driven by the rotation of the handle 50, achieves a complete action flow from limiting to releasing to insertion, keeping the first terminal assembly 20 and the second terminal assembly 30 stably locked. The locking mechanism achieves rapid locking and unlocking through rotation-sliding coordinated action, improving assembly efficiency and operating feel.

[0075] The third conductive element 41 can be an elastic round needle structure, a fork spring structure, or a planar bump structure coated with conductive paste, to adapt to different current levels and corrosion resistance requirements.

[0076] Depending on the application space requirements, the housing 10 can be designed as a straight-insertion type or a bent type to accommodate different directional layouts of the controller and the battery pack. The shape of the housing 10 differs from that of the third conductive element 41.

[0077] The connector 100 assembly of this invention has a simple and compact structure. Intermediate connection is achieved through a third conductive element 41, improving contact reliability and assembly flexibility. When used with a locking mechanism, it significantly enhances vibration resistance and ease of operation, making it suitable for high-current connection requirements in various electric transportation and energy storage systems.

[0078] Specifically, the housing 10 has a double-layer structure. The housing 10 has an inner shell 13 and an outer shell 14. The inner shell 13 has a first plug-in terminal 11 and a second plug-in terminal 12 inside. The outer shell 14 is fitted onto the outer surface of the inner shell 13. The inner shell 13 is a shielding layer.

[0079] In one embodiment, the first conductive element 21 has two composite structures: a first insertion portion 211 and a second insertion portion 212. The two first insertion portions 211 are arranged side by side and are inserted into two side by side receiving grooves 422. The two composite structures are respectively matched and inserted into the third conductive end and the pin structure 421 in the receiving groove 422. The insertion sleeve 22 includes a receiving shell 222. Specifically, the receiving shell 222 has limiting grooves 221 corresponding to the number of first insertion portions 211. The first insertion portions 211 pass through the limiting grooves 221 and abut against the receiving shell 222.

[0080] The first insertion part 211 includes a limiting member 2112 connected to the sheet-shaped pin 2111. The limiting member 2112 is located at the starting end of the insertion position of the receiving shell 222, and the limiting member 2112 abuts against the receiving groove 422 to fix one end of the sheet-shaped pin 2111.

[0081] The diameter at the middle of the limiting groove 221 is smaller than the diameter at both ends of the limiting groove 221. The diameter at the middle of the limiting groove 221 is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the sheet-shaped pin 2111, so that when the sheet-shaped pin 2111 passes through the limiting groove 221, an interference fit is generated, so that the limiting groove 221 clamps the sheet-shaped pin 2111.

[0082] The sheet-shaped pin 2111 includes a second positioning structure 2113. The second positioning structure 2113 is integrally formed with the outer surface of the first insertion portion 211. The first insertion portion 211 is located on the side opposite to the adjacent first insertion portion 211.

[0083] Each first insertion portion 211 has a second positioning structure 2113. The second positioning structure 2113 protrudes from the outer surface of the sheet-like pin 2111. Two second positioning structures are symmetrically arranged. The second positioning structure 2113 abuts against the insertion sleeve 22 along the insertion direction.

[0084] The sheet-shaped pin 2111 has a shrinkage groove 215, which is connected to the second positioning structure 2113.

[0085] When the first insertion part 211 is inserted into the limiting groove 221, the insertion sleeve 22 applies a squeezing force to the second positioning structure 2113, and the second positioning structure 2113 contracts to insert into the insertion sleeve 22 and forms an abutment with the receiving shell 222 in the insertion direction of the second positioning structure 2113.

[0086] The second plug-in portion 212 is arranged side by side with the first plug-in portion 211. The second plug-in portion 212 is plugged into the pin structure 421. The second plug-in portion 212 is a plug-in component that matches the pin structure 421, and the plug-in component has a socket for plugging into the pin structure 421. The second plug-in portion 212 is located between the two first plug-in portions 211.

[0087] The first conductive element 21 includes a third positioning structure 2121, which is integrally formed with the outer surface of the second insertion portion 212. The third positioning structure 2121 protrudes from the outer surface of the second insertion portion 212 and is located on a vertical plane. The vertical plane is the plane that is perpendicular to the adjacent surfaces of the second insertion portion 212 and the first insertion portion 211.

[0088] The second positioning structure 2113 is located on the outer surface of the sheet-like pin 2111 opposite to the adjacent third positioning structure 2121, which is located on a vertical plane. The second positioning structure 2113 cooperates with a limiting groove 221 of the plug sleeve 22 to prevent loosening in the insertion direction. The third positioning structure 2121 and another limiting groove 221 of the plug sleeve 22 form a locking structure to prevent circumferential rotation. The combination of the second positioning structure 2113 and the third positioning structure 2121 forms a mechanical positioning constraint in 360° space, ensuring that the first terminal assembly 20 cannot slide back and forth or rotate or tilt within the socket 42. This also facilitates subsequent stable insertion.

[0089] The diameter at the middle of the limiting groove 221 is smaller than the diameter at both ends of the limiting groove 221. The diameter at the middle of the limiting groove 221 is equal to or smaller than the thickness of the sheet-like pin 2111, so that when the connector passes through the limiting groove 221, an interference fit is generated, so that the limiting groove 221 clamps the connector.

[0090] The connector has a shrinkage groove 215, which is connected to the third positioning structure 2121.

[0091] When the second insertion part 212 is inserted into the insertion sleeve 22, the insertion sleeve 22 applies a squeezing force to the third positioning structure 2121. The third positioning structure 2121 retracts into the shrinkage groove 215, so that the second insertion part 212 passes through the middle of the limiting groove 221. The second insertion part 212 passes through the limiting groove 221, and the third positioning structure 2121 rebounds to abut against the middle of the limiting groove 221 according to the rebound force, so that the second insertion part 212 and the receiving shell 222 form an abutment in the insertion direction of the second positioning structure 2113.

[0092] The first terminal assembly 20 further includes a seal 23. The seal 23 is integrally formed with the first plug portion 211 and the second plug portion 212 respectively. The seal 23 is close to the starting end of the first conductive member 21 that passes through the limiting groove 221, and the seal 23 is interference-fitted with the limiting groove 221 to isolate the external environment and the internal environment of the connector 100.

[0093] When the connector 100 is a through-hole connector, the installation method of the first terminal assembly 20 is as follows: First, assemble the receiving shell 222, and fit the sealing member 23 onto the first insertion portion 211, and push the first insertion portion 211 with the sealing member 23 through the limiting groove 221 in the receiving shell 222 to form an abutment with the limiting groove 221. Then, insert the crimped terminal into one end of the terminal protective shell to assemble the second insertion portion 212. The other end of the terminal protective shell matches the pin structure 421. Fit the sealing member 23 onto the second insertion portion 212, insert the second insertion portion 212 with the sealing member 23 into the receiving shell 222, and lock the limiting member 2112 of the first insertion portion 211 with the plate pin 2111.

[0094] When the connector 100 is a bent connector 100, the installation method of the first terminal assembly 20 is the same as the installation method of the first terminal assembly 20 of the straight connector 100.

[0095] The second terminal assembly 30 includes a second conductive element 31 and a sealing shell 32. The second conductive element 31 is a cable with an electrical connector. The second conductive element 31 passes through the sealing shell 32 and is in close contact with the sealing shell 32. After the second terminal assembly 30 is inserted into the third conductive element 41, the sealing shell 32 is connected to the housing 10 and covers one end of the housing 10. The second terminal assembly 30 is prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0096] The connector 100 also includes a connection assembly 40, which includes a third conductive element 41 and a socket 42. One end of the third conductive element 41 is inserted into the first terminal assembly 20, and the other end of the third conductive element 41 is fitted and connected to the second terminal assembly 30.

[0097] The socket 42 has a pin structure 421 and a receiving groove 422. The pin structure 421 is inserted into the first terminal assembly 20. The receiving groove 422 is provided to accommodate a third conductive element 41. The socket 42 encloses the third conductive element 41. Two third conductive elements 41 are arranged side by side, and an insulating gap 423 is formed between adjacent receiving grooves 422. The pin structure 421 is disposed in the insulating gap 423 and is arranged side by side with the connector structure.

[0098] The pin structure 421 and the socket 42 are integrally formed and vertically arranged in the insulating gap 423 between the third conductive elements 41. The second insertion portion 212 of the first conductive element 21 has a slot or hole, into which the pin structure 421 is directly inserted. Since the second insertion portion 212 and the pin structure 421 are auxiliary positioning structures without electrical function, a greater insertion force can be generated during insertion, achieving positioning, support, and anti-torsion. The purpose of the pin structure 421 and the socket 42 is to achieve mechanical anti-rotation positioning and reduce the micro-movement of the contact surface of the connector 100 in a vibration environment.

[0099] The socket 42 is integrally formed, the insertion direction of the pin structure 421 is the same as the insertion direction of the third conductive element 41, and the third conductive element 41 abuts against the receiving groove 422 along the insertion direction.

[0100] The socket 42 has a first positioning structure 424 circumferentially arranged on its outer surface. The first positioning structure 424 abuts against the housing 10 circumferentially to fix the socket 42 and ensure the accuracy of the insertion position. The first positioning structure 424 is a raised rib or snap-fit ​​structure on the outer wall of the socket 42, distributed circumferentially.

[0101] The inner wall of the housing 10 is provided with a corresponding limiting slot or locking platform, and the socket 42 is inserted and locked onto the inner wall.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first positioning structure 424 may be a discontinuous structure, such as local reinforcing ribs located on both sides of the pin structure 421 or at the edge of the receiving groove 422. After installation, the connecting assembly 40 is immovable inside the housing 10, and its insertion depth and angle are precisely controlled.

[0103] In one embodiment, when the first positioning structure 424 is discontinuous, the first positioning structure 424 is located at the corner of the two side-by-side receiving grooves 422 and the pin structure 421.

[0104] The third conductive element 41 includes a first insertion end 11 and a second insertion end 12. The first contact end 411 is inserted into the first conductive element 21. The second contact end 412 is inserted into the second terminal assembly 30. The first contact end 411 is inserted into the third conductive element 41, and the second contact end 412 is in contact with the second terminal assembly 30. The second contact end 412 is provided with a protruding structure 413 that is in contact with the second terminal assembly 30.

[0105] Furthermore, the dotted structure can accommodate slight deformations on the second terminal assembly 30, further enhancing its contact stability under vibration conditions. This bonding method is particularly suitable for applications involving high current, high-frequency mating and unmating, and severe vibration conditions in the new energy vehicle connector 100.

[0106] In one embodiment, one end of the third conductive element 41 is provided with a first contact end 411. The first contact end 411 is a mating structure and can be a pin hole structure, an elastic bayonet structure, or a sheet-like contact spring. The first insertion portion 211 of the first conductive element 21 is preferably a sheet-like pin 2111, which is directly inserted into the pin hole of the third conductive element 41, so that the springs on both sides form a clamp. During the insertion process, the inner wall of the sleeve 42 supports the third conductive element 41 to prevent deformation during insertion. The insertion depth of the first insertion portion 211 is constrained by the limiting groove 221 (inside the insertion sleeve 22), and the sheet-like pin 2111 cannot be loosened after being inserted into place. This part forms a reliable main electrical path.

[0107] The other end of the third conductive element 41 is the second contact end 412. The second contact end 412 preferably has a planar contact area and a micro-protrusion structure is provided on the planar contact area. The planar contact area is inserted into the second conductive element 31, and the micro-protrusion structure is attached to the second conductive element 31.

[0108] The planar contact area is inserted into the second conductive element 31, which is partially located within the receiving groove 422. Specifically, to improve the conductivity reliability and anti-fretting performance of the contact interface, the planar contact area of ​​the second contact end 412 has a pitted structure. This pitted area is a rough surface composed of multiple tiny protrusions, typically formed by stamping, die casting, or surface etching. This structure enhances the friction between micro-surfaces and the actual contact area during contact, effectively reducing contact resistance.

[0109] The connector 100 is installed by first installing the assembled connecting assembly 40 into the housing 10, then connecting the second terminal assembly 30 to the second contact end 412 of the connecting assembly 40, so that the electrical connector of the second conductive element 31 of the second terminal assembly 30 is located in the receiving groove 422, and then covering the opening of the second plug-in end 12 of the housing 10 to seal one end of the housing 10. Finally, the first plug-in part 211 and the second plug-in part 212 of the first terminal assembly 20 are plugged into the matching plug-in part of the second contact end 412 of the connecting assembly 40, and the socket 42 of the first terminal assembly 20 is covered at the opening of the first contact end 411 of the housing 10 to seal the housing 10. At this point, the opening of the housing 10 is completely blocked, forming a sealed cavity. In addition, a locking handle 50 is provided outside the housing 10. One end of the handle 50 is located at the first contact end 411 of the housing 10, and the other end is located at the second contact end 412 of the housing 10 by rotating relative to the housing 10. The locking guide 60 makes the handle 50 abut against the second contact end 412 of the housing 10, further securing the connection between the first terminal assembly 20 and the connecting assembly 40.

[0110] In this way, two third conductive elements 41 are arranged side by side in the receiving groove 422 of the socket 42. The gap between adjacent receiving grooves 422 is directly utilized, allowing the pin structure 421 and the third conductive elements 41 to be arranged side by side on the same horizontal cross-section. This transforms the gap on the socket 42 originally used for insulating the two third conductive elements 41 into a functional area for the pin, without requiring additional cross-sectional space. Furthermore, the electrical connection of the conductive elements and the mechanical reinforcement of the pin coexist in the same vertical layer, rather than being stacked in multiple layers.

[0111] The receiving groove 422 of the socket 42 encloses and secures the third conductive element 41, providing insulation protection. When the third conductive element 41 is a clamping member with multiple pin structures, and when it is inserted with the first insertion point, which is a sheet pin 2111, the sheet pin 2111 expands the pin structure. Since the pin structure is located within the receiving groove 422, the receiving groove 422 inserts the pin structure. Through one of the electrical paths of the connector 100, the first terminal assembly 20 is inserted with the third conductive element 41, and through one of the mechanical paths of the connector 100, the first terminal assembly 20 is inserted with the pin of the socket 42. The connection of one electrical path and the mechanical path is completed by sharing the same insertion action, without the need for step-by-step operation.

[0112] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make improvements without departing from the inventive concept of this application, but these improvements all fall within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A connector comprising a housing having a first mating end and a second mating end in communication, a first terminal assembly mated to the housing along the first mating end, and a second terminal assembly mated to the housing along the second mating end, characterized in that, The connector further comprises: a connecting assembly connected to the first terminal assembly at one end and connected to the second terminal assembly at the other end, the connecting assembly comprising: a third conductive member connected to the first terminal assembly at one end and connected to the second terminal assembly at the other end; a sleeve member having a pin structure connected to the first terminal assembly at one end and having a receiving groove in which the third conductive member is received and wrapped around the third conductive member; the third conductive members are arranged adjacent to each other in parallel, and an insulating gap is formed between adjacent receiving grooves, and the pin structure is arranged in the insulating gap and arranged in parallel with the pin structure; the pin structure is arranged in the same direction as the third conductive member, and the third conductive member is arranged in abutment with the receiving groove along the insertion direction.

2. The connector of claim 1, wherein The outer surface of the sleeve member is provided with a first positioning structure in the circumferential direction, which is in abutment with the housing in the circumferential direction to fix the sleeve member and ensure the accuracy of the insertion position.

3. The connector of claim 2, wherein When the first positioning structure is discontinuous, the first positioning structure is located at the corner of the two parallel receiving grooves and the connection of the pin structure, respectively.

4. The connector of claim 1, wherein The first terminal assembly comprises a first conductive member connected to the connecting assembly and a connecting sleeve, and the connecting sleeve has a limiting groove, and the first conductive member passes through the limiting groove; The first conductive member comprises: a first insertion part, two first insertion parts pass through the limiting groove respectively, and the first insertion part is connected to the third conductive member; a second insertion part arranged in parallel with the first insertion part and connected to the pin structure; a second positioning structure integrally formed with the outer surface of the first insertion part, the first insertion part is located on the side away from the adjacent first insertion part, and the second positioning structure is symmetrically arranged, and the second positioning structure is in abutment with the connecting sleeve along the insertion direction; a third positioning structure integrally formed with the outer surface of the second insertion part and arranged perpendicularly to the second positioning structure, and the third positioning structure is in abutment with the connecting sleeve along the insertion direction; The second positioning structure and the third positioning structure form a circumferential positioning structure of the first conductive member and the connecting sleeve.

5. The connector of claim 4, wherein, The first insertion part and the second insertion part are provided with a contraction groove, and the contraction groove is in communication with the second positioning structure and the third positioning structure, respectively; When the first insertion part and the second insertion part are inserted into the connecting sleeve, respectively, the connecting sleeve applies a pressing force to the second positioning structure and the third positioning structure, respectively, and the second positioning structure and the third positioning structure are contracted into the contraction groove, respectively, to be inserted into the connecting sleeve and form an abutment in the insertion direction.

6. The connector of claim 4, wherein The first terminal assembly further comprises: a sealing member integrally formed with the first insertion part and the second insertion part, respectively, the sealing member is close to the starting end of the first conductive member passing through the limiting groove, and the sealing member is in interference fit with the limiting groove to isolate the external environment and the internal environment of the connector.

7. The connector of claim 4, wherein The third conductive member comprises: a first contact end connected to the first conductive member and a second contact end connected to the second terminal assembly, and the first contact end is in communication with the second contact end. The first contact end is inserted into the third conductive piece, and the second contact end is attached to the second terminal assembly, and the second contact end is provided with a protruding structure attached to the second terminal assembly.

8. The connector of claim 1, wherein, The connector further comprises: A handle is mounted on the outer surface of the shell and can rotate relative to the shell, and one end is located at the first plug-in end, and the other end is located at the second plug-in end and abuts against the shell in the locked state; A locking guide is mounted on the outer surface of the shell and is in sliding connection with the shell, and abuts against the shell, wherein in the locked state, the locking guide is inserted into the handle, and the locking guide extends into the second plug-in end and abuts against the handle and the shell, respectively.

9. The connector of claim 1, wherein, The connector is either a bent connector or a straight plug-in connector.

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