Telescopic rod with connector position assurance (CPA) function

Abstract

The invention relates to a rod 1 adapted to be mounted on a connector C adapted to be connected to an interface I, such as an AC inlet for charging an electric vehicle; the rod 1 is adapted to ensure a stable electrical connection between the connector C and the interface I and comprises: two side walls 2, 3 parallel to each other and a bridge 4 connecting the two side walls 2, 3; wherein the bridge 4 is telescopically connected to the two side walls 2, 3 such that the rod 1 can be moved from an elongated configuration, in which the rod 1 has a maximum length LMAX, to a shortened configuration, in which the rod 1 has a minimum length LMIN, and wherein the lever 1 is adapted to rotate about the connector C from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction Y of the interface I in the connector C to a position parallel to the insertion direction Y of the interface I in the connector C.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a rod for connecting connectors and interfaces, such as those used in electric vehicles. More specifically, this invention relates to a telescopic rod with connector position guarantee (CPA) functionality. Background Technology

[0002] A recent application in the field of electric vehicles is the use of plug connection systems to connect to the vehicle's charging port.

[0003] In fact, this invention relates to connecting a vehicle's charging port to a vehicle wiring harness using a plug connection system. More specifically, this invention relates to the rod of a connector in a plug connector system. In particular, the rod has a range that meets two important customer requirements:

[0004] - The mating force limit, in particular, should not exceed a predetermined value; for example, the mating force should not exceed 100 N, preferably not exceed 75 N; and

[0005] - Ensure proper connection to the vehicle's interface, where the lever is closed in its final position (connector positioning guaranteed).

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a connector for connecting to an interface having a rod suitable for solving one or more of the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is based on the following concept: providing a rod adapted for mounting on a connector and for connection to an interface, such as an AC inlet for charging an electric vehicle; the rod is adapted to ensure a stable electrical connection between the connector and the interface, and includes: two sidewalls parallel to each other and a bridging member connecting the two sidewalls; wherein the bridging member is telescopically connected to the two sidewalls such that the rod can be moved from an extended configuration to a shortened configuration, in which the rod has a maximum length and in which the rod has a minimum length; and wherein the rod is adapted to rotate about the connector from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the connector into the interface to a position parallel to the insertion direction of the connector into the interface.

[0008] A lever with these characteristics is suitable for use with compact connectors to connect to interfaces that require mating force limits specified by the customer. For this reason, the lever rotates 90° around the connector in its extended configuration, allowing the operator to apply sufficient force proportional to the lever's length to the interface inserted into the connector through this rotation, bringing the interface closer to / into the connector until the two parts are electrically connected. However, later, when the connector is electrically connected to the interface, the lever can be brought to a shortened configuration around the connector, thus occupying less space and ensuring that the connector to which it is attached remains compact.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the two sidewalls includes a track on which the bridging member can slide to move from an extended configuration to a shortened configuration.

[0010] The rail allows the rod to extend and retract, enabling the bridging element to slide along the sidewalls of the rod, thus allowing it to lengthen and shorten. As explained, the fact that the rod is retractable is crucial, allowing the rod mounted on the connector to apply sufficient force to the interface to ensure an electrical connection between the connector and the interface, while also ensuring the connector's compactness.

[0011] According to another embodiment of the invention, each of the two sidewalls includes a fulcrum cavity adapted to allow the rod to be mounted on the connector, and the rod can rotate about the connector around the fulcrum cavity.

[0012] The rod is mounted on the connector by attaching the fulcrum cavity to the pivoting device on the connector. The rod rotates 90° around the connector, making the connector's pivoting device a pivot point. The fulcrum cavity can have different shapes and / or sizes, depending on the shape and / or size of the connector's pivoting device.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the invention, each of the two sidewalls includes a cam, each cam being adapted to cause movement of the interface into the connector in the insertion direction once the interface is inserted into the connector, so as to allow the interface to approach the connector when the rod rotates about the connector from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector to a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector.

[0014] A cam on the sidewall of the rod allows rotational movement of the rod around the connector to be converted into translational movement of the interface toward the connector into which it is inserted. In this way, the force applied by the operator to the rod to rotate it is converted into a force that pushes the interface into the connector, thereby bringing the two parts into electrical connection.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the invention, the bridging member includes two first stops, such as two baffles, and each of the two sidewalls includes two protrusions, wherein when the rod is in the extended configuration, each of the first stops abuts against one of the protrusions of the two sidewalls to prevent the rod from accidentally switching from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

[0016] The first stop and the protruding portions of the two side walls of the bridging member ensure that the rod is in an extended configuration when mounted on the connector in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector. In fact, the rod is translationally locked in its supplied configuration and can only be unlocked after the rod has been rotated 90°, allowing it to reach a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector. Therefore, accidental closure of the rod will not occur.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the invention, the bridging member includes two second stops, such as the two peripheral walls of the bridging member, each second stop abutting against the connector when the connector is not connected to the interface; the second stops are adapted to prevent the rod from rotating about the fulcrum cavity.

[0018] When the rod is mounted on the connector and before the interface is inserted into the connector, the second stop ensures that the rod cannot rotate about the connector from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector (the configuration in which the rod on the connector is supplied) to a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector by abutting against a specific blocking surface of the connector.

[0019] Therefore, when supplied by the manufacturer, the combined action of the first and second stops ensures that the rod mounted on the connector is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, and that it cannot rotate around the connector or translate from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration. These operations will only be possible after the interface has been inserted into the connector.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the invention, the bridging element further includes a locking device adapted to interact with the connector to secure the rod in a shortened configuration.

[0021] Once the lever has rotated 90° around the connector to a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, the lever can be moved to the shortened configuration. To ensure it can no longer be moved from this position, a locking device interacts with the connector coupling element, thus locking the lever in the shortened configuration. When the lever is in this configuration, the interface is in electrical contact with the connector, and the locking device ensures that the system maintains this position even under severe vibration. A tool such as a screwdriver must be used to release the locking device. Therefore, the release of the locking device cannot occur accidentally.

[0022] The present invention also relates to a plug connection system comprising a connector adapted for connection to an interface and a rod according to any of the above embodiments; the plug connection system comprising: a pivoting device to which the rod can be inserted and adapted to allow the rod to rotate about the connector; a blocking surface adapted to prevent the rod from rotating about the connector when the interface is not connected to the connector and the rod is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction; and a release device adapted to release the translated rod when the rod is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, such that the rod can switch from an extended configuration to a shortened configuration.

[0023] For a rod of this type to be advantageously mounted on a connector, the connector must include at least: a pivoting device, such as a pin, to which a fulcrum cavity of the rod engages, and the rod is rotatable about its position from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the connector into the interface to a position parallel to the insertion direction of the connector into the interface; a locking surface adapted to interact with a second stop of the rod to ensure that the rod cannot rotate when the connector and the rod are supplied by the manufacturer; and an unlocking device adapted to interact with a first stop to unlock the rod, such that when the rod is in the position parallel to the insertion direction of the connector into the interface, the rod can be moved from an extended configuration to a shortened configuration.

[0024] According to another embodiment of the invention, the pivoting device includes a pin into which the fulcrum cavity of the rod can be inserted.

[0025] The fulcrum cavity of the rod is inserted into the pin of the connector, allowing the rod to rotate around the connector.

[0026] According to another embodiment of the invention, each blocking surface includes a slat that is adapted to engage against the second rod stop when the interface is not connected to the connector.

[0027] When the connector and rod are supplied by the manufacturer, the blocking surface may be a slat that abuts against the second rod stop to prevent accidental rotation of the rod before the interface is inserted into the connector.

[0028] According to another embodiment of the invention, the release device includes a protruding element capable of lifting the first stop.

[0029] The protruding elements of the connector allow the levers to be translatably unlocked because, when the levers are in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, they raise the first stop of the lever bridging member so that they no longer abut against the protruding portion of the lever's sidewall. In this way, the levers can be moved from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the invention, the connector further includes two slots; the slots are adapted to intersect the cams on the sidewalls of the rod, such that when the rod is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, the outer ends of the slots correspond to the ends of the cams closest to the rod bridge, and when the rod is in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, the innermost ends of the slots correspond to the ends of the cams furthest from the rod bridge.

[0031] This configuration of slots and cams means that a rotational movement of the rod about the connector from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector corresponds to a translational movement of the interface toward the connector along its insertion direction. More specifically, this is possible via the insertion device of the interface. These slots in the connector, integral with the interface, are automatically pushed into the cams of the rod. As the rod rotates, the cam pushes the insertion device inserted therein along the slot in the insertion direction of the interface into the connector. When the rod has rotated 90° from its initial position, the insertion device of the interface reaches the end of the cam's travel and the innermost end of the slot in the connector. The lengths of the cam and the slot are designed such that when the insertion device is located at the innermost end of the slot and the end of the cam furthest from the rod bridge, respectively, the interface is inserted into the connector sufficiently to ensure an electrical connection between the two components.

[0032] According to another embodiment of the invention, the connector includes a coupling element adapted to interact with a locking device to secure the rod in a shortened configuration.

[0033] The locking mechanism of the lever interacts with the connecting element to ensure that the lever can no longer be moved from the shortened configuration. Therefore, the interface can maintain electrical connection with the connector even when the system is in an environment subjected to severe vibration.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a connection assembly comprising a plug connection system according to one of the above embodiments, wherein the interface includes an insertion means adapted to interact with the plug connection system such that the interface moves from an initial position within the connector when the lever is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector to an end position when the connector and the interface are electrically connected when the lever is in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector.

[0035] When the insertion device is assembled into the cam of the rod and the slot of the connector, the rotational movement of the rod causes the interface to translate in the insertion direction of the interface into the connector. The rotation of the rod thus ensures that the interface is inserted into the connector. The length of the cam and the slot also ensures the electrical connection between the two components.

[0036] According to another embodiment of the invention, the insertion device includes two pins adapted to be inserted into the slots and rods of the connector, respectively, such that when the rod is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, the two pins are located at the outer ends of the slots, corresponding to the ends of the cam closest to the rod bridge, and when the rod is in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, the pins are located at the innermost ends of the slots, corresponding to the ends of the cam furthest from the rod bridge.

[0037] The insertion device can be, for example, a stud, shaped to be inserted into the slots of the rod's cam and the connector.

[0038] The present invention also relates to a method for connecting a connector assembly according to one of the above embodiments; wherein the plug connection system is such that, prior to interface insertion, the lever is in an extended configuration in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector and is rotatably and translationally locked; the method includes the following steps in the order described: (a) inserting the interface into the plug connection system along the insertion direction; (b) rotating the unlocking lever via the interface insertion device; (c) rotating the lever about a pivoting device from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector to a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector; (d) adapting to the plug connection system. The movement of the insertion device of the interface of the system interaction causes the interface to move from an initial position within the connector when the lever is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector to a final position where the connector and the interface are electrically connected when the lever is in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector; steps (d) and (c) occur simultaneously; (e) the unlocking lever is translated by the unlocking device; (f) the bridging member is pushed in a direction parallel to and opposite to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector so that the lever reaches the shortened configuration; (g) the lever is locked in the shortened configuration so that the plug connection system and the interface are electrically connected in a safe and stable manner.

[0039] The method according to the invention allows the use of a rod according to the invention mounted on the connector to achieve and ensure an electrical connection between the connector and the interface. The method using the rod according to the invention allows sufficient force to be applied to the interface to ensure an electrical connection with the connector, while maintaining a compact size for the connector on which the rod is mounted.

[0040] According to another embodiment of the invention, step (b) includes widening the bridging member after inserting the stud into the slot, such that the two second stops no longer abut against the slats, and thus the rod rotates freely.

[0041] This method requires that when the interface is inserted into the connector, the rod initially mounted on the connector so as to be locked by rotation and translation is unlocked by the insertion device at least by rotation.

[0042] According to another embodiment of the invention, step (d) includes: inserting a stud into the slot and the cam such that when the rod is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, and the outer ends of the slots correspond to the ends of the cams closest to the rod bridge, the interface is only partially inserted into the connector; and when the rod is in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector, and the innermost ends of the slots are located at the ends of the cams furthest from the rod bridge, the interface is fully inserted into the connector and the interface and the connector are in electrical contact with each other.

[0043] Due to the configuration of the slot and the cam of the connector, this method allows the rotational movement of the rod to be converted into the translation of the insertion device, and thus into the translation of the interface in the insertion direction of the interface into the connector.

[0044] According to another embodiment of the invention, step (e) includes: raising the first stop of the rod by a protruding element of the connector, such that the rod can be moved from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

[0045] This method allows the release of the first stop of the rod, and thus the release of the rod in translation by means of a protruding device that lifts the stop so that the stop is no longer in contact with the protruding element of the rod.

[0046] According to another embodiment of the invention, step (g) includes inserting the locking element of the rod into the stop element to secure the rod in the shortened configuration.

[0047] This method involves blocking the lever in a shortened configuration when it is in a position parallel to the insertion direction of the interface into the connector. This ensures that the connector and interface are electrically connected and cannot be moved from this position, even when the system is in an environment subject to severe vibration. Attached Figure Description

[0048] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same numerals and / or reference numerals indicate the same and / or similar and / or corresponding parts of the system.

[0049] Figure 1 A 3D view of a rod with CPA functionality according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0050] Figure 2 A 3D view of a plug connection system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0051] Figure 3 This shows what can be seen from the front. Figure 2 The plug connection system shown.

[0052] Figure 3A It shows Figure 3 Zoomed-in details.

[0053] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3 Further magnification of the details.

[0054] Figure 4A Shown from above Figure 2 The plug connection system shown is used to insert an interface into the plug connection system.

[0055] Figure 4B This shows what can be seen from the front. Figure 4A Details.

[0056] Figures 5A to 5C It shows Figure 2The plug connection system shown is illustrated in 3D views of its three different stages of use, where the interface is inserted into the plug connection system.

[0057] Figure 6A It shows a 90° counterclockwise rotation Figure 5C .

[0058] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A Zoomed-in details.

[0059] Figure 7A It shows from different angles Figure 5C .

[0060] Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Zoomed-in details.

[0061] Figures 8A to 8C It shows Figure 2 The plug connection system shown is in a later stage of its use and is viewed in 3D from three different angles, with the interface inserted into the plug connection system. Detailed Implementation

[0062] In the following description, the invention is described by reference to specific embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described in the following detailed description and depicted in the drawings, but rather the described embodiments simply exemplify various aspects of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims. Further modifications and variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0063] Figure 1 A 3D view of a rod with connector position guarantee (CPA) function according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0064] The rod 1 shown in the figure is suitable for mounting on connector C, as... Figure 2 As shown. The purpose of rod 1 is to ensure a proper electrical connection between connector C and interface I, as... Figure 2 As shown. Interface I can be, for example, an AC inlet for charging an electric vehicle. The connector C to which lever 1 will be mounted is a very compact connector, and lever 1 must be constructed such that the maximum connection force from connector C to interface I remains less than 75 N. Furthermore, lever 1 must ensure the correct positioning of interface I within connector C, even in a small space where the operator has very little room to operate the installation.

[0065] The rod 1 according to the invention includes two parallel sidewalls 2, 3 and a bridging member 4 connecting the two sidewalls 2, 3. The two identical sidewalls 2, 3 have a circular shape and each includes a fulcrum cavity 7, 8, into which one of the two pins P of the connector C can be inserted to connect the rod 1 to the connector C, as shown in the reference. Figure 2 A more detailed explanation follows. Each of the two sidewalls 2 and 3 also includes: cams 5 and 6, each adapted to receive the pin PL of interface I, as shown in the reference. Figure 7A Further explanation involves tracks 11 and 12, adapted to allow the bridging member 4 to slide on the two sidewalls 2 and 3 to telescopically extend and shorten the rod 1. Additionally, each of the two sidewalls 2 and 3 includes a protrusion 13 and 14 that abuts against one of the two first stops 9 and 10 of the bridging member 4 of the rod 1, and locks the rod in the extended configuration, as referenced. Figure 2 A more detailed description follows. Furthermore, each of the two sidewalls 2 and 3 includes an interlocking groove 19 adapted to receive two first stops 9 and 10 of the bridging member 4 when the rod 1 is in a shortened configuration. In addition to the first stops 9 and 10, the bridging member 4 includes two arms 20 and 21 parallel to each other and parallel to the two sidewalls 2 and 3, and a handle 22 connecting the two arms 20 and 21 and allowing the operator to act on the rod 1 to change the rod 1 from an extended configuration to a shortened configuration, as shown in the reference. Figures 4A to 4B Explanation. The two arms 20 and 21 are respectively inserted into the two tracks 11 and 12 of the two sidewalls 2 and 3 to allow the extension and retraction of the rod 1. Furthermore, the two arms 20 and 21 include second stops 15 and 16, for example, when the rod is in the extended configuration, the outer end wall of each of the two arms 20 and 21 abuts against the two strips Ls of the connector C, as... Figure 3B As shown in the best example. Finally, bridge 4 is included. Figure 3A The stop device 18 shown in the diagram rests on the connector C when the lever 1 is in the shortened configuration, and the locking device 17 ensures that the lever 1 is locked on the connector C when the lever 1 is in the shortened configuration.

[0066] Figure 2 A 3D view of a plug connection system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0067] The plug connection system SC includes, for example, Figure 1 The rod 1 and connector C are described. Connector C includes a housing H having a parallelepiped shape, which is connected to a wire W (not shown) on one side and adapted on the opposite side to be connected to an interface I (not shown), such as an AC inlet for charging an electric vehicle, via electrical contacts CC.

[0068] For simplicity, see reference. Figure 2An orthogonal Cartesian reference system XYZ is defined, wherein when the rod is in an extended configuration, Y is the axis parallel to the insertion direction of interface I within connector C, X is the direction parallel to arms 20, 21 of rod 1, as will be explained better later, and Z is the direction perpendicular to the XY plane.

[0069] Connector C includes a pivoting device MP. More specifically, the housing H of connector C includes two pins P, one pin P for each surface of housing H parallel to the XY plane, adapted to be inserted into the fulcrum cavities 7 and 8 of rod 1, respectively. (See reference...) Figures 4A to 4B Under optimal conditions, rod 1 will be able to rotate about connector C, which is fixed to the two pins P. Housing H also includes two slots F on two surfaces parallel to the XY plane, which are parallel to each other and extend parallel to the Y direction. When interface I (not shown) is inserted into connector C, slots F are designed to accommodate the two insertion devices MI of interface I, such as... Figures 7A to 7B As best shown. Furthermore, connector C includes a blocking surface SB. More specifically, the housing H of connector C includes two sets of four slats Ls, Ld on each surface of housing H parallel to the XY plane. Slats Ls, Ld extend parallel to the Y direction and are located on each side of the two slots F, respectively. Furthermore, connector C includes a release device MS. More specifically, housing H includes a protruding element E extending in the Z direction and adapted to lift the first stops 9, 10 when rod 1 is rotated to a position parallel to the Y direction, as shown in reference. Figure 6A and Figure 6B To explain better. Finally, the shell H is included. Figure 7A , 7B The connecting element A, shown in detail, is adapted to interact with the locking device 17 of the bridging element 4 to ensure that the lever 1 is locked onto the connector C when the lever 1 is in the shortened configuration.

[0070] Figure 2 A plug connection system SC supplied by the manufacturer is shown, ready for use, i.e., for installation with interface I. A lever 1 is mounted on connector C such that lever 1 is locked in an extended configuration, and the arms 20, 21 of lever 1 are parallel to direction X, and therefore perpendicular to the insertion direction of interface I into connector C. In this position, lever 1 has its maximum possible length L, for example, approximately 67 mm. MAX And it will not accidentally move to its shortened configuration. In fact, in this configuration, the second stops 15 and 16 of the bridging member 4 abut against two of the slats Ls of the housing H of the connector C (two Ls slats to the left of the two slots F on the two surfaces parallel to the XY plane of the housing H), making it impossible for the arms 20 and 21 to slide on their respective tracks 11 and 12 to shorten the rod 1. Finally, the first stops 9 and 10 of the bridging member 4 abut against the protrusions 13 and 14 of the two side walls 2 and 3 of the rod 1, respectively.

[0071] Figure 3 This shows what can be seen from the front. Figure 2 The plug connection system shown.

[0072] Figure 3 The plug connection system SC is shown from the front, viewed from the side of the plug connection system SC adapted to connect to interface I in a plane parallel to the XZ plane. In the foreground, Figure 3 The electrical contacts CC of connector C are shown. Rod 1 is in its initial state, rotated and locked, and in an extended configuration.

[0073] Figure 3A It shows Figure 3 Zoomed-in details.

[0074] In particular, Figure 3A Enlarged details of the stop device 18 of the handle 22 of the bridging member 4 are shown. The stop device 18 rests on the housing H of the connector C and, together with the first stops 9 and 10, ensures that the rod cannot move or slide from its extended configuration.

[0075] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3 Further magnified details.

[0076] In particular, Figure 3B Enlarged details of the second stop 15 of the wall 2 of rod 1 are shown, which abuts against the slats Ls of the housing H of connector C. When the second stops 15 and 16 abut against the slats Ls and Ld of housing H, rod 1 is rotatably locked.

[0077] Therefore, the rod 1 supplied by the manufacturer can neither rotate around the connector C to which it is installed, nor translate to change from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration when it is supplied.

[0078] Figure 4A Shown from above Figure 2 The plug connection system shown is used to insert an interface into the plug connection system.

[0079] In Figure 4, interface I is inserted into connector C, and rod 1 according to the invention is mounted on connector C. The system is shown as viewed from above, i.e., in a plane parallel to the XY plane.

[0080] Rod 1 is in an extended configuration; however, interface I has been partially inserted into connector C, and insertion device MI, more specifically, the stud PL of interface I, as... Figures 7A to 7BAs shown in the optimal configuration, the pin PL has been at least partially inserted into the slot F. The insertion of the pin PL into the slot F causes the arms 20, 21 to move parallel to the XY plane away from the wall of the housing H. The rod 1 widens, and thus the second stops 15, 16 are released. In effect, these also move parallel to the XY plane away from the wall of the housing H, no longer abutting against the slats Ls of the housing H. The rod 1 now rotates freely about the pin P of the housing H, no longer being rotatably blocked by the stops 15, 16.

[0081] If necessary, invoke the plug connection system SC: connection component GC, which has interface I that is inserted into.

[0082] Figure 4B This shows what can be seen from the front. Figure 4A Details.

[0083] Figure 4B This shows the view observed in the XZ plane. Figure 4A The details are as follows. In particular, it can be seen that when interface I is inserted into connector C, especially when the two pins PL of interface I are fitted into the slot F of housing H, these cause the sidewalls 2, 3 to be lifted, thereby widening the arms 20, 21 of bridge 4 and releasing the second stops 15, 16. Then, once interface I has been inserted into housing H, rod 1 can rotate around pin P of housing H of connector C because the second stops 15, 16 are automatically unlocked by the insertion of interface I into connector C.

[0084] Figures 5A to 5C It shows Figure 2 The plug connection system shown is illustrated in 3D views at three different stages of its use, where the interface is inserted into the plug connection system.

[0085] Figure 5A The connection component GC is shown in its early stages of use. The pin PL of interface I has been unlocked by the second stops 15, 16, as already referenced. Figure 4B The operator, who must connect connector C to interface I, can act on handle 22 to begin rotating handle 22 counterclockwise. Once lever 1 begins to rotate, pin PL will engage cams 5 and 6 respectively and automatically, as shown in... Figure 5B and 5C It's easier to see in the middle.

[0086] Figure 5B The GC connection assembly is shown at a further stage of its use. Rod 1 rotates further counterclockwise. In this way, cams 5 and 6 rotate together with rod 1, causing the pin PL of interface I to move with it, resulting in interface I being further inserted into / closer to connector C.

[0087] Figure 5CThe connector assembly GC is shown in another stage of its use. Rod 1 has now rotated 90° around pin P of connector C. In this position, the protruding element E of the housing H of connector C has a dual function: on the one hand, it causes the first stops 9 and 10 to be lifted, as in... Figure 6A and 6B This can be seen more clearly in the image; on the other hand, it blocks arms 20 and 21, preventing lever 1 from rotating further. With the first stops 9 and 10 unlocked, lever 1 can now be moved to the shortened configuration. In the shortened configuration, lever 1 has a minimum length L of approximately 53 mm. MIN Furthermore, cams 5 and 6 rotate together with rod 1, further moving the pin PL of interface I, causing interface I to be inserted further into / closer to connector C. When rod 1 rotates 90°, interface I is inserted into connector C, thus electrically connecting the two components. The displacement of pin PL along the Y direction causes interface I to be inserted into connector C with the required mating force, for example, a force not exceeding 75N.

[0088] Figure 6A It shows a 90° counterclockwise rotation Figure 5C .

[0089] By making Figure 5C Rotating counterclockwise by 90° provides a clearer view of how the protruding element E of the housing H acts on the bridging member 4 of the rod 1. More specifically, it can be seen how the protruding element E lifts the first stops 9 and 10, so that the first stops 9 and 10 no longer abut against the protruding portions 13 and 14 of the two side walls 2 and 3 of the rod 1, respectively. When the first stops 9 and 10 are unlocked, the rod 1 can move from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration, as... Figures 8A to 8C As shown.

[0090] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A Zoomed-in details.

[0091] Figure 6B A magnified view shows the first stop 9 raised from the protruding element E. The first stop 9 no longer abuts against the protruding portion 13 of the side wall 2.

[0092] Figure 7A It shows from different angles Figure 5C .

[0093] exist Figure 7AIn the diagram, the locking device 17 of the handle 22 of the bridging member 4 is clearly visible. The locking device 17 includes, for example, a hook, whose lever 1, when in the shortened configuration, is adapted to insert into the connecting element A of the housing H. The locking device 17 ensures that the lever 1 is closed in the shortened configuration upon engagement. In fact, once engaged, the locking device 17 can only be released using a tool not shown in the diagram. This ensures that the lever 1 remains in the shortened configuration, and therefore, the interface I and connector C maintain electrical connection even when the entire system is subjected to strong stimuli and / or vibrations.

[0094] Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Zoomed-in details.

[0095] Figure 7B The enlarged view shows the locking device 17 of rod 1 and the connecting element A of the housing H of connector C.

[0096] Figures 8A to 8C It shows Figure 2 The plug connection system shown is in a later stage of its use and is viewed from three different angles in a 3D view, where the interface is inserted into the plug connection system.

[0097] Figure 8A The connecting assembly GC is shown as viewed from above, i.e., in a plane parallel to the XY plane. The operator has now acted on lever 1 to put it in a shortened configuration. More specifically, the operator pushes handle 22 in the direction Y, opposite to the insertion direction of interface I into connector C, causing the arms 20, 21 of bridging member 4 to move along the corresponding tracks 11, 12 of the side walls 2, 3 of lever 1. L of lever 1 reaches its minimum length L. MIN In this manner, the first stops 9 and 10 of the bridging member 4 are inserted into their respective interlocking grooves 19 in the sidewalls 2 and 3. Similarly, the locking device 17 is inserted into the engaging element A. The lever 1 is now locked in the end position and can only be opened using a tool not shown in the figure on the locking device 17. The lever 1 is configured such that the cams 5 and 6 have moved the pin PL of the interface I within the slot F of the connector C, causing the interface I to move in the insertion direction Y, thereby electrically connecting the connector C and the interface I.

[0098] Figure 8B Showing views from different angles Figure 8A The shown connection component is GC.

[0099] It can be clearly seen that the first stop 9 is inserted into the corresponding interlocking groove 19, the arm 20 has slid on the track 11, thereby shortening the rod 1, and the pin PL inserted into the cam 5 has made the interface I electrically contact the connector C.

[0100] Figure 8C This shows a different perspective. Figure 8A The shown connection component is GC.

[0101] In this case, it can be clearly seen that the locking device 17 of the handle 22 of the bridging member 4 is inserted into the connecting element A of the housing H of the connector C.

[0102] The present invention also relates to a method for connecting a connector assembly GC of the above type; the method includes the following steps in the order described:

[0103] (a) Interface I is inserted into plug connection system C along the X direction; plug connection system C positions rod 1 in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction Y of interface I into connector C, and in the extended configuration, it is locked by means of first stops 9 and 10 to prevent it from sliding to the shortened configuration, and locked by means of second stops 15 and 16 to prevent it from rotating; during this step, the two pins P of interface I are fitted into the two slots F of housing H of connector C;

[0104] (b) After the stud P is inserted into the slot F, the side walls 2 and 3 of the rod 1 are lifted so that the second stops 15 and 16 of the rod 1 no longer abut against the slats Ls and Ld of the housing H; in this way, the second stops 15 and 16 no longer prevent the rod 1 from rotating around the fulcrum cavities 7 and 8.

[0105] (c) The initial rotation of rod 1 around pin P of connector C causes the two pins PL of interface I to be inserted into the two cams 5 and 6 of rod 1 respectively;

[0106] (d) Further rotation of rod 1 until it reaches a position parallel to the insertion direction Y of interface I in connector C; during this step, cams (5, 6) drag pin PL in the insertion direction Y so that connector C approaches interface I and the subsequent electrical connection of the two components.

[0107] (e) The first stops 9 and 10 of the lifting rod 1 are raised via the protruding element E of the housing H, so that the first stops 9 and 10 no longer abut against the protruding portions 13 and 14 of the rod 1, and the rod 1 can be moved from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

[0108] (f) Push the bridge 4 in a direction parallel to and opposite to the insertion direction Y of the interface I into the connector C, so that the rod 1 reaches the shortened configuration;

[0109] (g) The lever 1 is locked in the shortened configuration by means of the locking device 17, so that the plug connection system SC and the interface I are electrically connected in a safe and stable manner.

[0110] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications, variations, and improvements of the invention can be made based on the above teachings and within the scope of the claims without departing from the subject matter and scope of protection of the invention.

[0111] For example, the rod can be symmetrical to the rod shown in the attached figure, so that the rod can be installed on the right side of the connector instead of the left side, depending on the installation requirements.

[0112] In addition, the rod bridging component can be shaped to have different contours or ergonomic surfaces depending on the connector packaging requirements.

[0113] Finally, aspects that are considered to be known to those skilled in the art are not described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the invention.

[0114] Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, but is limited only by the scope of protection of the appended claims.

[0115] Figure Labels

[0116] 1 stroke

[0117] 2nd and 3rd sidewalls

[0118] 4. Bridging components

[0119] 5 and 6 cams

[0120] 7, 8 fulcrum cavity

[0121] 9, 10 First stop

[0122] Tracks 11 and 12

[0123] 13 and 14 Highlighted parts

[0124] 15, 16 Second stop

[0125] 17 Locking device

[0126] 18. Stop device

[0127] 19 Interlocking Groove

[0128] Arms 20 and 21

[0129] 22 handles

[0130] C connector

[0131] H shell

[0132] CC electrical contacts

[0133] SB blocking surface

[0134] Ls, Ld slats

[0135] MP pivot device

[0136] P sales

[0137] F slot

[0138] MS release device

[0139] E Protruding element

[0140] A connecting element

[0141] W wire

[0142] I interface

[0143] MI insertion device

[0144] PL studs

[0145] SC plug connection system

[0146] GC Connectivity Component

Claims

1. A rod (1) adapted to be mounted on a connector (C) adapted to be connected to an interface (I), such as an AC inlet for charging an electric vehicle; the rod (1) adapted to ensure a stable electrical connection between the connector (C) and the interface (I), and comprising: Two parallel sidewalls (2, 3) and a bridging member (4) connecting the two sidewalls (2, 3); the rod (1) is characterized in that the bridging member (4) is telescopically connected to the two sidewalls (2, 3), such that the rod (1) can be moved from an extended configuration to a shortened configuration, in which the rod (1) has a maximum length (L). MAX In the shortened configuration, the rod (1) has a minimum length (L). MIN The rod (1) is adapted to rotate about the connector (C) from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C) to a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C).

2. The rod (1) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the two sidewalls (2, 3) includes a track (11, 12), and the bridging member (4) can slide on the track (11, 12) to switch from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

3. The rod (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the two sidewalls (2, 3) includes a fulcrum cavity (7, 8) adapted to allow the rod (1) to be mounted on the connector (C), and the rod (1) can rotate about the connector (C) around the fulcrum cavity (7, 8).

4. The rod (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the two sidewalls (2, 3) includes a cam (7, 8) that, once the interface (I) is inserted into the connector (C), is adapted to cause movement of the interface (I) in the insertion direction (Y) into the connector (C) to allow the interface (I) to approach the connector (C) as the rod (1) rotates about the connector (C) from a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) into the connector (C) to a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) into the connector (C).

5. The rod (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The bridging member (4) includes two first stops (9, 10), such as two baffles, and the two sidewalls (2, 3) each include two protrusions (13, 14); wherein, when the rod (1) is in the extended configuration, the first stops (9, 10) each abut against one of the protrusions (13, 14) of the two sidewalls (2, 3) to prevent the rod (1) from accidentally moving from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

6. The rod (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The bridging member (4) includes two second stops (15, 16), such as the two peripheral walls of the bridging member (4). When the connector (C) is not connected to the interface (I), the two second stops (15, 16) abut against the connector (C) respectively. The second stops (15, 16) are adapted to prevent the rod (1) from rotating around the fulcrum cavity (7, 8).

7. The rod (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The bridging member (4) also includes a locking device (17) adapted to interact with the connector (C) to secure the rod (1) in the shortened configuration.

8. A plug connection system (SC) comprising a connector (C) adapted to be connected to an interface (I) and a rod (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the connector (C) comprising a pivoting device (MP), a blocking surface (SB), and a releasing device (MS), the rod (1) being insertable into the pivoting device (MP) and adapted to allow the rod (1) to rotate about the connector (C), the blocking surface (SB) being adapted to block rotation of the rod (1) about the connector (C) when the interface (I) is not connected to the connector (C) and the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (X), and the releasing device (MS) being adapted to unlock the rod (1) in translation when the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C), such that the rod (1) can be moved from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

9. The plug connection system (SC) according to claim 8 when dependent on claim 3, wherein, The pivoting device (MP) includes a pin (P), into which the fulcrum cavity (7, 8) of the rod (1) can be inserted.

10. The plug connection system (SC) according to any one of claims 8 or 9 when dependent on claim 4, wherein, The connector (C) further includes two slots (F) adapted to intersect the cams (7, 8) respectively, such that when the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C), the outer ends of the slots (F) correspond to the ends of the cams (7, 8) closest to the rod (1), and when the rod (1) is in a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C), the innermost ends of the slots (F) correspond to the ends of the cams (7, 8) furthest from the rod (1).

11. The plug connection system (SC) according to any one of claims 8 to 10 as dependent on claim 5, wherein, The release device (MS) includes a protruding element (E) adapted to lift the first stop (9, 10).

12. The plug connection system (SC) according to any one of claims 8 to 11 as dependent on claim 6, wherein, Each of the blocking surfaces (SB) includes slats (Ls, Ld) that are adapted to engage the second stop (15, 16) against the rod (1) when the interface (I) is not connected to the connector (C).

13. The plug connection system (SC) according to any one of claims 8 to 12 as dependent on claim 7, wherein, The connector (C) includes a connecting element (A) adapted to interact with the locking device (17) to secure the rod (1) in the shortened configuration.

14. A connection assembly (GC) comprising a plug connection system (SC) according to any one of claims 8 to 13 and an interface (I) adapted to connect said plug connection system (SC), wherein, The interface (I) includes an insertion device (MI) adapted to interact with the plug connection system (SC) such that the interface (I) moves from an initial position within the connector (C) when the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) entering the connector to an end position where the connector (C) and the interface (I) are electrically connected when the rod (1) is in a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) entering the connector (C).

15. The connection component (GC) according to claim 14 when dependent on claim 12, wherein, The insertion device (MI) includes two pins (PL) adapted to be inserted into the slot (F) of the connector (C) and into the cams (7, 8) of the rod (1), such that when the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C), the two pins (PL) are respectively located at the outer end of the slot (F), corresponding to the end of the cam (7, 8) closest to the bridging member (4) of the rod (1), and when the rod (1) is in a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C), the two pins (PL) are respectively located at the innermost end of the slot (F), corresponding to the end of the cam (7, 8) furthest from the rod (1) of the bridging member (4).

16. A method of connecting a connection component (GC) according to claim 14 or 15; wherein, The plug connection system (SC) such that, prior to insertion of the interface (I), the rod (1) is in the extended configuration positioned perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) into the connector (C), and is rotatably and translationally locked; the method includes the following steps in the aforementioned sequence: (a) Insert the interface (I) into the plug connection system (SC) along the insertion direction (Y); (b) The rod (1) is released by rotating the insertion device (MI) through the interface (I); (c) The rod (1) rotates about the pivoting device (MP) from the position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C) to the position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C); (d) Movement of the insertion device (MI) of the interface (I) adapted to interact with the plug connection system (SC) such that the interface (I) moves from an initial position within the connector (C) when the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector, to a final position, wherein the connector (C) and the interface (I) are electrically connected when the rod (1) is in a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) in the connector (C); wherein step (d) occurs simultaneously with step (c); (e) The rod (1) is released by translating the release device (MS); (f) Push the bridge (4) in a direction parallel to and opposite to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) into the connector (C) so that the rod (1) reaches the shortened configuration; (g) Lock the rod (1) in the shortened configuration so that the plug connection system (SC) and the interface (I) are electrically connected in a safe and stable manner.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, Step (b) includes: after inserting the stud (PL) into the slot (F), widening the bridging member (4) so ​​that the two second stops (15, 16) no longer abut against the slats (Ls, Ld), and thus the rod (1) rotates freely.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, Step (d) includes: inserting the stud (PL) into the slot (F) and the cams (5, 6) such that when the rod (1) is in a position perpendicular to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) into the connector (C) and the outer end of the slot (F) corresponds to the end of the cam (7, 8) closest to the rod (1), the interface (I) is only partially inserted into the connector (C); and when the rod (1) is in a position parallel to the insertion direction (Y) of the interface (I) into the connector (C) and the innermost end of the slot (F) corresponds to the end of the cam (7, 8) furthest from the rod (1), the interface (I) is fully inserted into the connector (C) and the interface (I) and the connector (C) are in electrical contact with each other.

19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein, The step (e) includes raising the first stop (9, 10) of the rod (1) by means of the protruding element (E) of the connector (C) so that the rod (1) can be moved from the extended configuration to the shortened configuration.

20. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein, Step (g) includes inserting the locking member (17) of the rod (1) into the connecting member (A) to secure the rod (1) in the shortened configuration.

21. An electric vehicle, such as an electric car, comprising a connection assembly (GC) according to any one of claims 14 or 15, wherein, The connection component (GC) is connected to the battery of the electric vehicle.

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