Energy storage boost electric unlocking structure, socket and connector assembly and unlocking method

Abstract

The application provides an energy storage boosting electric unlocking structure, a socket and a connector assembly and an unlocking method, and relates to the technical field of connectors, and specifically discloses the following technical scheme: a lock sleeve; an energy storage ejector rod slidingly arranged in the lock sleeve, an inner cavity of the energy storage ejector rod being provided with a ring groove on an inner circumferential surface; an energy storage spring, which is compressed to store energy when the energy storage spring is locked and releases elastic potential energy to drive the energy storage ejector rod to move axially when the energy storage spring is unlocked; a locking steel ball arranged between the inner cavity and the energy storage locking rod, the locking steel ball being capable of moving radially; an energy storage locking rod slidingly arranged in the energy storage ejector rod, the energy storage locking rod being axially moved to extrude the locking steel ball into the ring groove to achieve radial limiting when the energy storage locking rod is locked, and the locking steel ball being caused to be extruded out when the energy storage locking rod is unlocked; and an electromagnetic driving assembly, which drives the energy storage locking rod to move axially through electromagnetic attraction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of connector technology, and in particular to an energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure, a socket, a connector assembly, and an unlocking method for the energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of connector technology, steel ball locking structures are widely used to achieve quick locking and unlocking between connector plugs and sockets due to their compact structure and reliable locking.

[0003] Currently, existing connector electro-clamping steel ball locking structures, such as Figure 1 As shown, the system includes the original electromagnet 110, the original pressure block 120, the original locking rod 130, the original sleeve 140, the original steel ball 150, and the original locking sleeve 160. When locking, the original locking rod 130 limits the original steel ball 150 within the groove of the original locking sleeve 160 and the steel ball hole of the original sleeve 140, thus locking the original sleeve 140 and the original locking sleeve 160. When unlocking, energizing the original electromagnet 110 generates a magnetic force, causing the original pressure block 120 to move the original locking rod 130 in the unlocking direction. The original locking rod 130 releases its limitation on the original steel ball 150, thus unlocking the original sleeve 140 and the original locking sleeve 160.

[0004] When an external overload environment causes a large reverse force between the sleeve and the locking sleeve, and the locking sleeve squeezes the steel ball to generate a large positive pressure on the locking rod, the frictional force of the locking rod's movement also increases. Unlocking requires the electromagnet to provide a greater electromagnetic force to move the locking rod. If the electromagnetic force provided by the electromagnet is insufficient to move the locking rod, it will result in the locking rod being unable to unlock. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention proposes an energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure, its connector, and unlocking method. This addresses the issue in existing connector locking connection structures where the unlocking force increases dramatically after overload, resulting in the electromagnetic attraction provided by the electromagnet failing to unlock the locking rod.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of the present invention is implemented as follows:

[0007] The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure includes: a locking sleeve, which has a push rod hole opened axially inside;

[0008] An energy storage top rod is slidably inserted into the top rod hole. The energy storage top rod has a cavity inside, and an annular groove is formed on the inner wall of the cavity.

[0009] An energy storage spring abuts against the end of the energy storage rod and is used to maintain compressed energy storage in the locked state and release elastic potential energy to drive the energy storage rod to move axially when unlocked.

[0010] A locking steel ball is disposed between the cavity of the energy storage top rod and the locking rod, and can move radially along the energy storage top rod;

[0011] An energy storage locking rod is slidably inserted into the cavity of the energy storage top rod. In the locked state, it is used to radially limit the locking steel ball by axial movement and pushing it outward into the annular groove. When unlocking, it moves in the opposite direction to release the radial limitation on the locking steel ball, allowing the locking steel ball to disengage from the annular groove. An electromagnetic drive assembly is disposed at the end of the energy storage locking rod away from the energy storage top rod and is used to drive the energy storage locking rod to move axially by electromagnetic attraction. This invention utilizes an energy storage rod and an energy storage spring. During locking, the energy storage spring is pre-compressed to store elastic potential energy. During unlocking, this elastic potential energy is released to drive the energy storage rod to axially impact the locking rod. This transforms the static pull-out unlocking method, which requires electromagnetic force to directly overcome static friction in traditional electric suction structures, into a dynamic unlocking method that first uses a small electromagnetic attraction force to trigger the mechanism, followed by a large spring force impact. Under overload conditions, only a small electromagnetic attraction force is needed to complete unlocking, effectively solving the problem of insufficient electromagnetic attraction force in existing electric suction steel ball locking structures under overload conditions, significantly improving unlocking reliability. Simultaneously, by sliding the energy storage locking rod through the cavity of the energy storage rod, the axial movement of the energy storage locking rod achieves radial locking and release of the locking steel ball, resulting in a compact structure and reliable operation. Furthermore, by setting an electromagnetic drive component at the end of the energy storage locking rod away from the energy storage rod, the axial movement of the energy storage locking rod is driven by electromagnetic attraction, achieving electrification of the unlocking operation.

[0012] Furthermore, in order to drive the energy storage locking rod to move axially by electromagnetic attraction, the electromagnetic drive assembly includes an electromagnetic base, an electromagnet fixed in the electromagnetic base, and a pressure block slidably disposed in the electromagnetic base; the pressure block is sleeved on the energy storage locking rod, and the energy storage locking rod is provided with an outer protrusion, the pressure block abutting against the end of the outer protrusion near the energy storage top rod; the electromagnet is disposed on the side of the pressure block away from the energy storage top rod, and is used to attract the pressure block when energized, the pressure block driving the energy storage locking rod to move axially by pushing the outer protrusion.

[0013] Furthermore, in order to reset the pressure block and energy storage locking rod after the electromagnet is de-energized, the electromagnetic drive assembly also includes a tail spring, the two ends of which abut against the outer boss and the electromagnet, respectively.

[0014] Furthermore, in order to integrate the energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure into the housing to form a complete module, the housing is also included. The locking sleeve is fixed at one end inside the housing, the end of the energy storage locking rod away from the energy storage top rod passes through the other end of the housing, the electromagnetic seat is fixed at the corresponding end of the housing, and the pressure block is located between the housing and the electromagnet.

[0015] Furthermore, in order to guide and constrain the energy storage spring and ensure its coaxiality and smooth movement during compression and release, a pressure cylinder coaxially arranged with the locking sleeve is fixed inside the outer shell, and the pressure cylinder is sleeved on the outside of the energy storage locking rod; the energy storage spring is sleeved on the outside of the pressure cylinder; the tail section of the energy storage push rod extends into the pressure cylinder and slides with the pressure cylinder; and the outer sides of the ends of the energy storage push rod and the pressure cylinder that are far apart are respectively provided with annular platforms, and the two ends of the energy storage spring abut against the two annular platforms respectively; a protective sleeve is provided inside the outer shell, and the protective sleeve is sleeved on the outside of the energy storage spring.

[0016] Furthermore, in order to axially limit the locking steel ball and prevent it from falling off when not locked, a sleeve is provided on the outer side of the locking rod, and the sleeve is located between the energy storage locking rod and the energy storage top rod; the sleeve is provided with a steel ball hole that radially penetrates the side wall, and the steel ball hole is used to accommodate the locking steel ball and limit its axial position.

[0017] Furthermore, in order to limit the stroke of the energy storage rod and allow the limiting sleeve to elastically reset, a limiting sleeve is fitted on the outer side of the sleeve, and a circumferential limiting ring groove is provided inside the limiting sleeve. A limiting steel ball hole that radially penetrates the side wall is also provided on the sleeve away from the energy storage rod. The limiting steel ball hole is used to accommodate the limiting steel ball and limit the axial position of the limiting steel ball, and the limiting steel ball partially extends into the limiting ring groove. One end of the limiting sleeve can contact the energy storage rod and be pushed by the energy storage rod. A limiting spring is provided between the other end of the limiting sleeve and the end of the sleeve, which is used to allow the limiting sleeve to move axially with the energy storage rod and elastically reset.

[0018] A connector includes a plug and a socket, the socket comprising the energy-storage-assisted electro-engagement unlocking structure described in any of the preceding claims; the plug contains a locking rod and a steel ball, the locking rod extending into a locking sleeve, and the steel ball engaging with a locking ring groove in the locking sleeve to lock the plug and socket. This invention integrates the energy-storage-assisted electro-engagement unlocking structure into the connector's socket, with the plug containing a locking rod and a steel ball. The locking rod extends into the locking sleeve and the steel ball engaging with the sleeve to lock the connector. This allows the connector to be unlocked under overload conditions by either directly pulling the locking rod for conventional unlocking or by energizing an electromagnet to trigger an energy-storage spring, which then impacts the locking rod with an energy-storage push rod to complete the unlocking. This constitutes a connector solution with electro-engagement unlocking functionality, effectively solving the problems of insufficient electromagnetic attraction and limited unilateral operation under overload conditions, and improving the connector's adaptability and flexibility of use.

[0019] An energy storage booster unlocking method, comprising the energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure described in any one of the above claims, further comprising the following steps:

[0020] Locking energy storage steps: Use the push rod tool to push the energy storage push rod axially, so that the energy storage spring is in a compressed energy storage state. Under the action of the tail spring, the locking rod squeezes the locking steel ball into the annular groove of the energy storage push rod, thereby realizing the limit locking of the energy storage push rod and locking the plug and socket connection.

[0021] Unlocking and releasing steps: When the electromagnet is energized, the pressure block, under the action of electromagnetic attraction, pushes the outer boss, causing the energy-storing locking rod to move axially, thus disengaging the locking steel ball from the annular groove and releasing the restriction on the limiting energy-storing top rod. The energy-storing spring releases its elastic potential energy, driving the energy-storing top rod to axially impact the locking rod, thereby releasing the locking rod from the restriction on the steel ball and achieving unlocking. This invention pre-stores the energy required for unlocking in the form of elastic potential energy, releasing it instantaneously through dynamic impact during unlocking. Even under conditions of overload causing enormous locking force on the steel ball, only a small electromagnetic attraction force is needed to trigger unlocking. The operation is simple and reliable, suitable for both electronic control and manual unlocking capabilities.

[0022] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0023] 1. This invention, by setting an energy storage rod and an energy storage spring, pre-compresses the energy storage spring to store elastic potential energy during locking, and releases this elastic potential energy during unlocking to drive the energy storage rod to axially impact the locking rod. This transforms the static pull-out unlocking method, which requires continuous overcoming of large static friction in traditional structures, into unlocking using instantaneous dynamic impact energy. Under overload conditions, only a small unlocking force is needed to complete the unlocking, effectively solving the problem that existing locking connection structures have excessive unlocking force or even jamming and inability to unlock under overload conditions, and significantly improving unlocking reliability.

[0024] 2. This invention allows for the release of the energy storage top rod by sliding the energy storage locking rod through the cavity of the energy storage top rod, which can be easily pulled from the socket side to release the energy storage top rod, thus achieving double-sided unlocking. When one side cannot be operated due to installation or structural limitations, unlocking can be completed from the other side, improving the flexibility of the unlocking operation. The structure is compact and the operation is reliable.

[0025] 3. This invention sets an electromagnet at the socket end, which cooperates with the end of the energy storage locking rod. When energized, the pressure block drives the energy storage locking rod to move and release the energy storage spring. The unlocking operation is electrified by triggering the energy storage release through electromagnetic drive. The operation is convenient and labor-saving, and it is suitable for remote control or automated unlocking scenarios.

[0026] 4. This invention converts the elastic potential energy stored in the energy storage spring into impact force, replacing continuous static pulling with instantaneous dynamic impact. Unlocking can be triggered under limited electromagnetic attraction force. Under the same electromagnet specifications, it can adapt to higher overload conditions and amplify the unlocking capability of electromagnetic attraction force.

[0027] 5. The present invention provides axial force to the energy storage locking rod through the tail spring to maintain radial limit on the locking steel ball, ensuring a stable and reliable locking state.

[0028] 6. This invention guides and constrains the energy storage spring through a pressure cylinder, ensuring the coaxiality and smoothness of the energy storage spring during compression and release, preventing lateral bending or instability of the spring, and improving its service life.

[0029] 7. This invention protects the energy storage spring with a sheath to prevent external impurities from contaminating it or accidental contact, thereby improving the working reliability of the energy storage spring.

[0030] 8. The present invention uses the steel ball hole on the sleeve to axially limit the locking steel ball, preventing the locking steel ball from axially moving and falling off when not locked, thus ensuring the reliability of the structure.

[0031] 9. This invention limits the stroke of the energy storage push rod by using a limiting sleeve and a limiting steel ball to prevent the energy storage push rod from moving unexpectedly, thus providing a limiting protection function.

[0032] 10. This invention integrates an energy-storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure into the socket, which, together with the original locking rod and steel ball inside the plug, forms an overall connector solution with electric suction unlocking function, enabling reliable locking and convenient unlocking of the plug and socket.

[0033] 11. This invention stores elastic potential energy in advance through a locking and energy storage step, and then triggers the unlocking and release step by energizing an electromagnet, thereby driving the original locking rod to unlock by impact, achieving reliable unlocking under small operating force. It is simple to operate and reliable in action. Attached Figure Description

[0034] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an existing connector locking structure.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the socket structure of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the socket and top rod tooling of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0040] In the diagram: 110, original electromagnet; 120, original pressure block; 130, original locking rod; 140, original sleeve; 150, original steel ball; 160, original locking sleeve; 14, locking rod; 16, steel ball; 18, top rod fixture; 21, outer shell; 22, locking sleeve; 221, top rod hole; 222, locking sleeve annular groove; 23, nut one; 24, energy storage top rod; 241, annular groove; 242, cavity; 25, energy storage spring; 26, locking steel ball; 27, sleeve; 28, protective sleeve; 29, energy storage locking rod; 210, pressure block; 211, electromagnet; 212, tail spring; 213, pressure cylinder; 214, limit sleeve; 215, nut two; 101, plug; 102, socket. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0042] The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure described in Embodiment 1 of the present invention is used to solve the core problem that the existing electric suction steel ball locking structure has insufficient electromagnetic suction force and cannot unlock under overload conditions.

[0043] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure includes a locking sleeve 22, an energy storage push rod 24, an energy storage spring 25, a locking steel ball 26, an energy storage locking rod 29, and an electromagnetic drive assembly. The locking sleeve 22 has an axially extending push rod hole 221 inside. The energy storage push rod 24 slides through the push rod hole 221. The energy storage push rod 24 has a cavity 242, and an annular groove 241 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the energy storage push rod 24 to accommodate the outer portion of the locking steel ball 26. Figure 4 As shown, one end of the energy storage push rod 24 is used to withstand the push of the push rod tool 18 to complete the energy storage, and then this end of the energy storage push rod 24 is connected to the mating end to be locked.

[0044] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the energy storage spring 25 is sleeved on the outside of the energy storage push rod 24, with one end of the energy storage spring 25 abutting against the end of the energy storage push rod 24 and the other end abutting against the fixed support surface. In the energy storage locked state of the energy storage booster unlocking structure, the energy storage push rod 24 is axially limited, and the energy storage spring 25 remains in a compressed energy storage state; during unlocking, the axial limitation on the energy storage push rod 24 is released, the energy storage spring 25 releases elastic potential energy, driving the energy storage push rod 24 to move rapidly along the axial direction, impacting the docking end to be unlocked, thus achieving unlocking.

[0045] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the locking steel ball 26 is disposed between the cavity 242 of the energy storage top rod 24 and the energy storage locking rod 29, and can move radially along the energy storage top rod 24. The energy storage locking rod 29 slides through the cavity 242 of the energy storage top rod 24, and can slide axially within the cavity 242 of the energy storage top rod 24. The energy storage locking rod 29 includes a large-diameter section body, the front end of which is connected to a flat straight plate section through a tapered section with a reduced diameter, the tapered section and the straight plate section forming a smaller diameter section. In the unlocked state, the inner part of the locking steel ball 26 is accommodated in the gap of the smaller diameter section. In the locked state, the energy storage locking rod 29 moves relative to the energy storage push rod 24, causing the tapered section to push the locking steel ball 26 outward into the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24. Continued relative movement of the energy storage locking rod 29 causes the outer circumference of the large-diameter section to enclose the locking steel ball 26 within the annular groove 241, achieving axial locking between the energy storage push rod 24 and the energy storage locking rod 29. The smaller diameter section provides radial inward space for the locking steel ball 26 during unlocking, allowing it to disengage from the annular groove and release the lock on the energy storage push rod 24.

[0046] The electromagnetic drive assembly is located at the end of the energy storage locking rod 29 away from the energy storage top rod 24, and is used to drive the energy storage locking rod 29 to move axially through electromagnetic attraction.

[0047] The working process of the above-mentioned energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure is as follows:

[0048] In the unlocked state, the smaller diameter section of the energy storage locking rod 29 is aligned with the locking steel ball 26, the locking steel ball 26 is in an inward retracted state, and the energy storage push rod 24 can slide freely axially.

[0049] During the locking and energy storage process, the push rod fixture 18 is used to axially push the energy storage push rod 24, causing it to move in the direction of compressing the energy storage spring 25. When the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24 moves to a position aligned with the locking steel ball 26, the locking steel ball 26 gains radial movement space. Under external force, the energy storage locking rod 29 moves axially, and the tapered section pushes the locking steel ball 26 outward into the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24. The energy storage locking rod 29 continues to move, causing the outer circumference of the large-diameter section to seal the locking steel ball 26 within the annular groove 241. At this time, the locking steel ball 26 axially locks the energy storage push rod 24 and the energy storage locking rod 29, and the energy storage spring 25 is kept in a compressed energy storage state.

[0050] When unlocking is required, the electromagnetic drive assembly is energized to generate electromagnetic attraction, driving the energy storage locking rod 29 to move its larger diameter section away and align its smaller diameter section with the locking steel ball 26. Under the thrust transmitted by the energy storage spring 25, the locking steel ball 26 disengages from the annular groove 241 and falls into the smaller diameter section. After releasing the axial limit on the energy storage push rod 24, the energy storage spring 25 releases its elastic potential energy, driving the energy storage push rod 24 to pop out axially and strike the target locking rod to be unlocked, thus achieving unlocking.

[0051] Example 2: Based on Example 1, this example further adds a specific structure to the electromagnetic drive component.

[0052] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the electromagnetic drive assembly includes an electromagnetic base, an electromagnet 211 fixed within the electromagnetic base, and a pressure block 210 slidably disposed within the electromagnetic base. The pressure block 210 is fitted onto the energy storage locking rod 29. The energy storage locking rod 29 has an outer boss, and the end of the pressure block 210 near the energy storage top rod 24 has an inwardly facing inner boss, which abuts against the end of the outer boss near the energy storage top rod 24. The electromagnet 211 is disposed on the side of the pressure block 210 away from the energy storage top rod 24, and is used to attract the pressure block 210 when energized. The pressure block 210 drives the energy storage locking rod 29 to move axially by pushing the outer boss with the inner boss. The electromagnet 211 has a hole for the energy storage locking rod 29 to slide, which limits the energy storage locking rod 29 to only axial sliding.

[0053] Furthermore, the electromagnetic drive assembly also includes a tail spring 212, which is sleeved on the energy storage locking rod 29. The electromagnet 211 has an annular groove for accommodating part of the tail spring 212. The end of the annular groove, i.e., the end furthest from the pressure block 210, forms an inner annular platform between itself and the hole on the electromagnet 211 for sliding the energy storage locking rod 29. Both ends of the tail spring 212 abut against the outer boss and the inner annular platform, respectively, to reset the pressure block 210 and the energy storage locking rod 29 after the electromagnet 211 is de-energized. When the locking steel ball 26 is not in the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24, the locking steel ball 26 is located at the smaller diameter section of the front end of the energy storage locking rod 29, providing axial restraint to the energy storage locking rod 29, at which point the tail spring 212 is compressed. When the energy storage push rod 24 is pushed by the push rod tool 18, the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24 aligns with the locking steel ball 26, and the locking steel ball 26 can loosen and enter the annular groove 241. At this time, the energy storage locking rod 29 is pushed towards the energy storage push rod 24 under the action of the tail spring 212. The large diameter section of the energy storage locking rod 29 is aligned with the locking steel ball 26, so that the locking steel ball 26 cannot get out of the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24.

[0054] During unlocking, the electromagnet 211 is energized. Under the electromagnetic attraction, the pressure block 210 overcomes the elastic force of the tail spring 212, pushing the outer boss to move the energy storage locking rod 29 axially. This causes the large-diameter section of the body to move away, and the smaller-diameter section to align with the locking steel ball 26. The locking steel ball 26 disengages from the annular groove 241, releasing the restriction on the energy storage push rod 24. The energy storage spring 25 releases its elastic potential energy to complete the unlocking. After power is cut off, the tail spring 212 pushes the outer boss to reset the energy storage locking rod 29 and the pressure block 210.

[0055] Example 3: Based on Example 2, this example further adds a housing 21 to form a complete socket-end energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure.

[0056] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, it also includes a housing 21, a locking sleeve 22 fixed inside one end of the housing 21, an energy storage locking rod 29 with one end away from the energy storage top rod 24 passing through the other end of the housing 21, an electromagnetic base fixed to the corresponding end of the housing 21, and a pressure block 210 located between the housing 21 and the electromagnet 211.

[0057] The entire energy storage structure is housed inside the outer casing 21. The locking sleeve 22 is fixed to one end of the outer casing 21 by a nut 23. The end of the energy storage locking rod 29 passes through the other end of the outer casing 21 and through the pressure block 210 into the electromagnetic base. In this embodiment, the energy storage locking rod 29 is a split structure. The two parts of the energy storage locking rod 29 are detachably connected by a nut 215. A part of the energy storage locking rod 29 near the energy storage top rod 24 is slidably disposed in the sleeve 27, and the other part is slidably disposed in the pressure block 210 and the electromagnet 211. During unlocking, in addition to directly pulling out the plug at the connector's plug end, the electromagnet 211 can also be energized for electric attraction unlocking, providing the connector with a dual-sided operable unlocking capability.

[0058] Example 4: Based on Example 3, this example further optimizes the mounting structure of the energy storage spring 25.

[0059] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a pressure cylinder 213, coaxially arranged with the locking sleeve 22, is fixed inside the outer casing 21. An energy storage locking rod 29 is located inside the pressure cylinder 213. An energy storage spring 25 is sleeved on the outside of the pressure cylinder 213. The tail section of the energy storage push rod 24 extends into the pressure cylinder 213 and slides within it. Annular platforms are provided on the outer sides of the distant ends of the energy storage push rod 24 and the pressure cylinder 213, and the two ends of the energy storage spring 25 abut against the two annular platforms respectively.

[0060] By setting the pressure cylinder 213, the energy storage spring 25 is guided and constrained by the pressure cylinder 213 and the end of the energy storage push rod 24 during compression and release, which can maintain axial stability, prevent the spring from bending laterally or becoming unstable, and improve the smoothness of movement and service life of the energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure. At the same time, a protective sleeve 28 can also be set inside the outer shell 21, which is fitted over the outside of the energy storage spring 25 to further protect the spring from external impurities or accidental contact.

[0061] Example 5: Based on Example 3, this example further adds an axial limiting structure for the locking steel ball 26.

[0062] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a sleeve 27 is fitted around the outer side of the energy storage locking rod 29, and the sleeve 27 is located between the energy storage locking rod 29 and the energy storage top rod 24. The sleeve 27 has a steel ball hole that radially penetrates the side wall, and a locking steel ball 26 is accommodated within this steel ball hole. The steel ball hole restricts the axial movement of the locking steel ball 26, allowing it to move only in the radial direction. In this way, the locking steel ball 26 will not move axially and fall off when not locked, ensuring the reliability of the structure.

[0063] Example 6: Based on Example 5, this example further adds a limiting sleeve 214 to restrict abnormal movement of the energy storage top rod 24.

[0064] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a limiting sleeve 214 is fitted on the outer side of the sleeve 27, and a circumferential limiting annular groove is provided inside the limiting sleeve 214. A limiting steel ball hole, radially penetrating the sidewall, is also provided on the sleeve 27 away from the energy storage rod 24, located on the right side away from the aforementioned steel ball hole. The limiting steel ball hole accommodates a limiting steel ball, and the outer part of the limiting steel ball extends into the limiting annular groove. One end of the limiting sleeve 214 can contact and be pushed by the energy storage rod 24, while a limiting spring is provided between the other end of the limiting sleeve 214 and the end of the sleeve 27. The limiting annular groove is relatively wide, ensuring that the outer side of the limiting steel ball remains within the limiting annular groove during the movement of the limiting sleeve 214.

[0065] When the energy storage rod 24 is pushed to the right, its end face will push the limiting sleeve 214 to move to the right as well. After the limiting sleeve 214 moves a certain distance to the right, the left wall of the limiting ring groove will lock the limiting steel ball, preventing the limiting sleeve 214 and the energy storage rod 24 from moving further, thus playing a limiting protection role. The limiting spring is used to reset the limiting sleeve 214 after the energy storage rod 24 retracts.

[0066] Example 7: This example provides a socket, including an energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure as described in any one of Examples 1 to 6.

[0067] Example 8: This example provides a connector assembly, including a plug 101 and a socket 102, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown.

[0068] The socket 102 includes the energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 6. The plug 101 has a plug-end locking structure, which includes a locking rod 14 and a steel ball 16. The locking rod 14 extends into the locking sleeve 22, and is locked by the steel ball 16 engaging within the locking sleeve 22. Specifically, the locking sleeve 22 also has an annular groove, called the locking sleeve annular groove 222, at the left end near the plug 101. A sleeve, called the plug sleeve, is fitted over the locking rod 14. The plug sleeve has a plug steel ball hole to axially limit the steel ball 16, allowing it to enter or exit the locking sleeve annular groove 222 without axial movement. The steel ball 16 can enter or exit the locking sleeve annular groove 222 by the pushing of the locking rod 14.

[0069] When locking, the energy-storing and electric suction unlocking structure inside the socket 102 is first locked and energy-storing, keeping the energy-storing spring 25 compressed and the energy-storing push rod 24 axially locked by the locking steel ball 26. Then, the plug 101 is connected to the socket 102, and the locking rod 14 moves axially, forcing the steel ball 16 outward into the locking ring groove 222 of the locking sleeve 22, thus achieving a reliable lock between the plug 101 and the socket 102.

[0070] With the plug 101 and socket 102 locked in place, there are two unlocking methods: First, directly pull the plug side to drive the locking rod 14 for conventional unlocking. Second, when the locking rod 14 cannot be directly operated due to installation or structural limitations, energize the electromagnet 211. The pressure block 210 moves the energy-storing locking rod 29, causing the locking steel ball 26 to dislodge. The energy-storing spring 25 releases energy, driving the energy-storing push rod 24 to strike the locking rod 14 to the left. The locking rod 14 moves axially, releasing the restriction on the steel ball 16. The steel ball 16 dislodges from the locking ring groove 222, separating the plug 101 and socket 102, thus achieving unlocking via another path. Therefore, this embodiment provides the connector with a dual-sided operable unlocking capability.

[0071] Example 9: This example provides an energy storage booster electric suction unlocking method, employing the energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure described in any of the above examples, including the following steps:

[0072] Locking and energy storage steps: Using the push rod fixture 18, the energy storage push rod 24 is pushed axially to overcome the elastic force of the energy storage spring 25, causing the energy storage push rod 24 to move in the direction of compressing the energy storage spring 25, thus compressing and storing energy. When the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24 moves to the position aligned with the locking steel ball 26, the energy storage locking rod 29 moves axially under the axial force of the tail spring 212. Its large-diameter section pushes the locking steel ball 26 outward into the annular groove 241 of the energy storage push rod 24. The locking steel ball 26 axially locks the energy storage push rod 24 and the energy storage locking rod 29, limiting the energy storage push rod 24. The energy storage spring 25 remains in a compressed energy storage state, completing the locking and energy storage process. Afterward, the plug 101 and socket 102 are connected and locked.

[0073] Unlocking and Release Procedure: When unlocking is required, the locking rod 14 can be pulled from the plug side to unlock, or the electromagnet 211 can be energized for electric attraction unlocking. After the electromagnet 211 is energized, the pressure block 210 overcomes the elastic force of the tail spring 212 under the action of electromagnetic attraction, and drives the energy storage locking rod 29 to move axially through the outer boss, so that the large diameter section of the energy storage locking rod 29 moves away from the position of the locking steel ball 26, and the tapered section with a reduced diameter aligns with the position of the locking steel ball 26. Under the thrust transmitted by the energy storage spring 25 through the energy storage push rod 24, the locking steel ball 26 is dislodged from the annular groove 241 and falls inward into the tapered section, releasing the axial restriction on the energy storage push rod 24. The energy storage spring 25 releases its elastic potential energy, driving the energy storage push rod 24 to rapidly eject axially, impacting the locking rod 14 inside the plug 101. This causes the locking rod 14 to move axially, releasing the radial restraint on the steel ball 16. The steel ball 16 then disengages from the locking ring groove 222 of the locking sleeve 22, thus unlocking and separating the plug 101 from the socket 102. After power is cut off, the tail spring 212 pushes the outer boss to reset the energy storage locking rod 29 and the pressure block 210.

[0074] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that any modifications to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions of some or all of the technical features thereof, within the spirit and principles of the present invention, do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, and should all be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure, characterized in that, include: The locking sleeve (22) has a push rod hole (221) axially opened inside. The energy storage top rod (24) is slidably inserted into the top rod hole (221). The energy storage top rod (24) has a cavity (242) inside, and an annular groove (241) is opened on the inner wall of the cavity. An energy storage spring (25) abuts against the end of the energy storage top rod (24) and is used to maintain compressed energy storage in the locked state and release elastic potential energy to drive the energy storage top rod (24) to move axially when unlocked. A locking steel ball (26) is disposed between the cavity of the energy storage top rod (24) and the locking rod (29), and can move radially along the energy storage top rod (24); The energy storage locking rod (29) is slidably inserted into the cavity (242) of the energy storage top rod (24). In the locked state, it is used to push the locking steel ball (26) outward into the annular groove (241) by axial movement to achieve radial limiting. When unlocking, it moves in the opposite direction to release the radial limiting of the locking steel ball (26) and make the locking steel ball (26) disengage from the annular groove (241). The electromagnetic drive assembly is disposed at the end of the energy storage locking rod (29) away from the energy storage top rod (24) and is used to drive the energy storage locking rod (29) to move axially by electromagnetic attraction.

2. The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electromagnetic drive assembly includes an electromagnetic base, an electromagnet (211) fixed in the electromagnetic base, and a pressure block (210) slidably disposed in the electromagnetic base; the pressure block (210) is sleeved on the energy storage locking rod (29), the energy storage locking rod (29) is provided with an outer protrusion, and the pressure block (210) abuts against the end of the outer protrusion near the energy storage top rod (24); the electromagnet (211) is disposed on the side of the pressure block (210) away from the energy storage top rod (24), and is used to attract the pressure block (210) when energized, and the pressure block (210) drives the energy storage locking rod (29) to move axially by pushing the outer protrusion.

3. The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The electromagnetic drive assembly also includes a tail spring (212), the two ends of which abut against the outer boss and the electromagnet (211) respectively, for resetting the pressure block (210) and the energy storage locking rod (29) after the electromagnet (211) is de-energized.

4. The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, It also includes a housing (21), the locking sleeve (22) is fixed inside one end of the housing (21), the end of the energy storage locking rod (29) away from the energy storage top rod (24) passes through the other end of the housing (21), the electromagnetic seat is fixed to the corresponding end of the housing (21), and the pressure block (210) is located between the housing (21) and the electromagnet (211).

5. The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The outer casing (21) is fixed with a pressure cylinder (213) coaxially arranged with the locking sleeve (22), and the pressure cylinder (213) is sleeved on the outside of the energy storage locking rod (29); the energy storage spring (25) is sleeved on the outside of the pressure cylinder (213); the tail section of the energy storage push rod (24) extends into the pressure cylinder (213) and slides with the pressure cylinder (213); and the outer sides of the ends of the energy storage push rod (24) and the pressure cylinder (213) that are far apart are respectively provided with annular platforms, and the two ends of the energy storage spring (25) abut against the two annular platforms respectively; the outer casing (21) is provided with a protective sleeve (28), and the protective sleeve (28) is sleeved on the outside of the energy storage spring (25).

6. The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The locking rod (29) is fitted with a sleeve (27) on its outer side, and the sleeve (27) is located between the energy storage locking rod (29) and the energy storage top rod (24); the sleeve (27) is provided with a steel ball hole that radially penetrates the side wall, the steel ball hole is used to accommodate the locking steel ball (26) and limit the axial position of the locking steel ball (26).

7. The energy storage-assisted electric suction unlocking structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, A limiting sleeve (214) is fitted on the outside of the sleeve (27). The limiting sleeve (214) has a circumferential limiting ring groove. A limiting steel ball hole that radially penetrates the side wall is also provided on the sleeve (27) away from the energy storage rod (24). The limiting steel ball hole is used to accommodate the limiting steel ball and limit the axial position of the limiting steel ball. The limiting steel ball extends into the limiting ring groove. One end of the limiting sleeve (214) can contact the energy storage rod (24) and be pushed by the energy storage rod (24). A limiting spring is provided between the other end of the limiting sleeve (213) and the end of the sleeve (27) to allow the limiting sleeve (214) to move axially with the energy storage rod (24) and elastically reset.

8. A socket, characterized in that, Includes the energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure as described in any one of claims 3 to 7.

9. A connector assembly, comprising a plug (101) and a socket (102), characterized in that, The socket (102) includes an energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 7; the plug is provided with a locking rod (14) and a steel ball (16), the locking rod (14) extends into the locking sleeve (22), and the plug (101) and the socket (102) are locked by the steel ball (16) being inserted into the locking sleeve annular groove (222) of the locking sleeve (22).

10. An energy storage-assisted unlocking method, characterized in that, Including the energy storage booster electric suction unlocking structure as described in any one of claims 3 to 7, the method further includes the following steps: Locking energy storage steps: Use the push rod tool (18) to push the energy storage push rod (24) axially, so that the energy storage spring (25) is in a compressed energy storage state. Under the action of the tail spring (210), the locking rod (29) squeezes the locking steel ball (26) into the annular groove (241) of the energy storage push rod (24), thereby realizing the limit locking of the energy storage push rod (24) and connecting and locking the plug (101) and socket (102); Unlocking and releasing steps: When the electromagnet (211) is energized, the pressure block (210) moves axially by pushing the outer boss under the action of electromagnetic attraction, causing the locking steel ball (26) to come out of the annular groove (241), releasing the limitation on the limiting energy storage top rod (24). The energy storage spring (25) releases elastic potential energy, driving the energy storage top rod (24) to axially impact the locking rod (14), so that the locking rod (14) releases the limitation on the steel ball (16), thus unlocking.

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