Connector and energy storage device

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of energy storage equipment technology, and in particular to a connector, including a socket assembly and a plug assembly. The socket assembly includes a mounting base with a mounting groove and a first conductive post. The first conductive post is disposed in the mounting groove. The mounting base is used to mount a first external device, and the first conductive post is used for electrical connection with the first external device. The mounting base also has a locking slot. The plug assembly includes a plug body and a second conductive post. The second conductive post is disposed in the plug body and is used for electrical connection with a second external device. The plug body also has a locking portion. When the drive socket assembly is inserted into the plug assembly, the plug body extends into the mounting groove, the first conductive post abuts against the second conductive post, and the locking portion engages with the locking slot, locking the plug assembly relative to the socket assembly, thereby reducing the risk of the plug assembly disengaging from the socket assembly and improving safety.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411356703.8, filed on September 27, 2024, entitled "Connector and Energy Storage Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model relates to the field of energy storage equipment technology, and in particular to a connector and an energy storage device. Background Technology

[0004] Connectors are widely used for electrical connections between energy storage devices and external electrical appliances. As an indispensable part of energy storage power systems, the stability and reliability of connector performance are crucial to the overall system's operational efficiency and safety. A connector includes a socket and a plug. The socket has a mounting groove with a first conductive post protruding from the bottom of the groove. The plug has a second conductive post. The first conductive post is electrically connected to the energy storage device, and the second conductive post is connected to external cables. When the plug is inserted into the socket, part of the plug extends into the mounting groove, and the first and second conductive posts abut against each other, thus electrically connecting the energy storage device to the external cables, enabling the energy storage device to charge or discharge.

[0005] However, in the process of implementing the embodiments of this utility model, the inventors discovered that when the plug and socket are connected and the plug is subjected to vibration or impact, the plug is prone to move away from the socket, resulting in poor contact between the first conductive post and the second conductive post, the vehicle's energy storage battery cannot be charged or discharged, and the plug may even fall off the socket. Usually, the connector is accompanied by current, especially in the case of high voltage AC, which can easily lead to electric shock hazards. Utility Model Content

[0006] This utility model provides a connector with good safety performance and high reliability.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides a connector comprising a socket assembly, including a mounting base and a first conductive post. The mounting base is provided with a mounting groove, and the first conductive post is disposed in the mounting groove. The mounting base is used to mount a first external device, and the first conductive post is used to electrically connect with the first external device. The mounting base is also provided with a locking slot. A plug assembly comprises a plug body and a second conductive post. The second conductive post is disposed in the plug body, and the first conductive post corresponds to the second conductive post. The second conductive post is used to electrically connect with a second external device. The plug body is provided with a locking portion. By driving the socket assembly to be inserted into the plug assembly, a portion of the plug body extends into the mounting groove, the first conductive post abuts against the second conductive post, and the locking portion engages with the locking slot, thereby locking the plug assembly relative to the socket assembly.

[0008] Optionally, the plug body includes a plug base, a rotating sleeve, and an elastic element. The rotating sleeve is fitted onto the plug base and is rotatable relative to the plug base. The locking part is disposed on the rotating sleeve, and there is a gap between the outer wall of the plug base and the rotating sleeve. One end of the elastic element is connected to the plug base, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the rotating sleeve. The elastic element is used to apply an elastic force to the rotating sleeve so that the locking part is kept engaged in the slot.

[0009] Optionally, the card slot has opposing first and second sidewalls, with a protrusion extending from the first sidewall to the second sidewall. A first opening is formed between the protrusion and the second sidewall. The first opening is used for the card portion to slide into the card slot. The elastic member is used to drive the card portion to slide towards the first sidewall after the card portion slides into the card slot, so that the protrusion is aligned with the card portion axially, and the protrusion limits the card portion axially.

[0010] Optionally, the protrusion is provided with a first guide inclined surface, which is used to guide the card portion to align with the first opening; and / or, the card portion is provided with a second guide inclined surface, which is used to guide the card portion to be inserted into the card slot.

[0011] Optionally, the plug socket is provided with a travel groove, and the rotating sleeve is provided with a supporting part. The supporting part extends into the travel groove and can slide along the travel groove. When the rotating sleeve is in a first preset position, the supporting part abuts against one side wall of the travel groove. When the rotating sleeve is in a second preset position, the supporting part abuts against the other side wall of the travel groove. The one side wall and the other side wall are arranged opposite to each other. The travel groove and the supporting part cooperate to limit the rotation travel of the rotating sleeve.

[0012] Optionally, the plug assembly further includes an anti-slip element, one end of the second conductive post is fixed to the mounting base, and the anti-slip element is connected to the other end of the second conductive post.

[0013] Optionally, one end of the second conductive post is provided with a connecting hole; the anti-contact component includes an anti-contact part, a connecting part, and a hook part, the connecting part is connected to the anti-contact part and the hook part respectively, and the hook part passes through the connecting hole and abuts against the step at the opening of the connecting hole.

[0014] Optionally, the bracket is provided with a fastening part; the mounting base has a mounting hole at one end opposite to the plug assembly, and a second opening is provided on the side wall of the mounting hole, the second opening communicating with the mounting hole, so that the side wall of the mounting hole forms an elastic wall, the elastic wall is provided with a fastening hole, and the fastening part is used to fasten into the fastening hole when the bracket is inserted into the mounting hole and abuts against the first conductive post, so that the bracket and the mounting base jointly clamp the first conductive post.

[0015] Optionally, the plug housing is provided with a sealing groove, the sealing groove being disposed around the plug housing; the plug assembly further includes a sealing ring, the sealing ring being disposed in the sealing groove, and a portion of the sealing ring protruding from the sealing groove, the portion of the sealing ring protruding from the sealing groove being used to abut against the side wall of the mounting groove.

[0016] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides an energy storage device, including the aforementioned connector.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this application embodiment are as follows: A connector is provided, comprising a socket assembly and a plug assembly. The socket assembly includes a mounting base and a first conductive post. The mounting base is provided with a mounting groove, and the first conductive post is disposed in the mounting groove. The mounting base is used to mount a first external device, and the first conductive post is used for electrical connection with the first external device. The mounting base is also provided with a locking slot. The plug assembly includes a plug body and a second conductive post. The second conductive post is disposed in the plug body, and the first conductive post corresponds to the second conductive post. The second conductive post is used for electrical connection with a second external device, and the plug body is provided with a locking portion. When the socket assembly is driven to be inserted into the plug assembly, part of the plug body extends into the mounting groove, the first conductive post abuts against the second conductive post, and the locking portion engages with the locking slot, thereby locking the plug assembly relative to the socket assembly. This reduces the risk of the plug assembly disengaging from the socket assembly and reduces the risk of poor contact between the first conductive post of the socket assembly and the second conductive post of the plug assembly, further improving safety. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the insertion state of the connector provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connector in the pulled-out state provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is provided by the embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the P1-P1 section line;

[0022] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the connector structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the socket assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0024] Figure 6 This is provided by the embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 5 Exploded view below the section view along section line P2-P2;

[0025] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first signal column provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the plug assembly provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the plug socket body provided in an embodiment of the present invention from one perspective;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the plug socket provided in this embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0029] Figure 11 This is a view of the limiting frame provided in an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0030] Figure 12 This is another view of the limiting frame provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0031] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating sleeve provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 14 This is provided by the embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the Y1-Y1 section line;

[0033] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating sleeve provided in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0034] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the connector provided in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective;

[0035] Figure 17 This is provided by the embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the Y2-Y2 section line;

[0036] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic sleeve provided in an embodiment of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0037] To facilitate understanding of this utility model, a more detailed description is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that when an element is described as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly on the other element, or one or more intermediate elements may exist between them. When an element is described as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element, or one or more intermediate elements may exist between them. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this specification are for illustrative purposes only.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The term "and / or" as used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0039] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2This application provides a connector 100 applied to an energy storage device. The connector 100 includes a socket assembly 10 and a plug assembly 20. The socket assembly 10 is used to install on a first external device and is electrically connected to the first external device. The plug assembly 20 is used to electrically connect to a second external device and is used to plug into the socket assembly 10, thereby achieving an electrical connection between the first and second external devices. It should be noted that the first and second external devices can be energy storage devices, home appliances, new energy vehicles, computers, tablets, display screen panels, etc. For example, the first external device is an energy storage device, and the second external device is a new energy vehicle.

[0040] For the socket assembly 10 described above, please refer to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The socket assembly 10 includes a mounting base 11, a first conductive post 12, and a first signal post 13. The mounting base 11 has a mounting groove 11a, and both the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 are disposed within the mounting groove 11a, with the first signal post 13 and the first conductive post 12 spaced apart. Both the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 are used for electrical connection with a first external device. For example, both the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 are connected to the first external device via wires. The first conductive post 12 is used to transmit current between the socket assembly 10 and the first external device, and the first signal post 13 is used to transmit electrical signals between the socket assembly 10 and the first external device. The mounting groove 11a also allows a plug assembly 20 to be inserted. When the plug assembly 20 is inserted into the mounting groove 11a, the plug assembly 20 also abuts against the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 located in the mounting groove 11a to achieve electrical connection between the plug assembly 20 and the socket assembly 10.

[0041] Furthermore, the mounting base 11 is also provided with a slot 11b, which is located on the outer surface of the mounting base 11 and extends along the insertion direction. The slot 11b has opposing first sidewalls 11b1 and second sidewalls 11b2. A protrusion 111 extends from the first sidewall 11b1 to the second sidewall 11b2, and a first opening 11b3 is formed between the protrusion 111 and the second sidewall 11b2. The slot 11b is used to engage and lock with the components of the plug assembly 20 when the plug assembly 20 is inserted into the mounting groove 11a. In some embodiments, the protrusion 111 is provided with a first guide inclined surface 111a, which guides the components of the plug assembly 20 into the slot 11b.

[0042] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 6The bottom wall of the mounting groove 11a has a first insulating portion 112 protruding along the direction from the socket assembly 10 toward the plug assembly 20. The first insulating portion 112 has a first insulating hole 112a, and the first conductive post 12 is disposed in the first insulating hole 112a. The first insulating portion 112 has insulating properties, isolating the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13, which helps reduce the risk of conductivity between the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13. In addition, the height of the first conductive post 12 is less than the depth of the first insulating hole 112a, and the first conductive post 12 does not protrude from the first insulating hole 112a. The first conductive post 12 is retracted within the first insulating hole 112a, which helps reduce the risk of external objects directly contacting the first conductive post 12 and conducting electricity when they fall into the groove of the mounting groove 11a, thus providing insulation protection for the first conductive post 12. The inner wall of the first insulating hole 112a has a protruding limiting step 11c. The limiting step 11c is used to abut against the limiting structure on the side wall of the plug assembly 20 when the component of the plug assembly 20 is inserted into the first insulating hole 112a and abuts against the first conductive post 12 for conduction, so as to prevent the component of the plug assembly 20 from being inserted too deeply relative to the socket assembly 10, excessively squeezing the first conductive post 12, and reducing the risk of bending or damage to the first conductive post 12.

[0043] A second insulating portion 113 protrudes from the bottom wall of the mounting groove 11a along the direction from the socket assembly 10 toward the plug assembly 20. The first insulating portion 112 and the second insulating portion 113 are spaced apart. The second insulating portion 113 has a second insulating hole 113a, and the first signal post 13 is disposed in the second insulating hole 113a. The second insulating portion 113 has insulating properties to reduce the risk of the first signal post 13 coming into contact with the first conductive post 12 and conducting electricity. In addition, the height of the first signal post 13 is less than the depth of the second insulating hole 113a. The first signal post 13 does not protrude from the second insulating hole 113a and is retracted within the second insulating hole 113a. This helps to reduce the risk of external objects directly contacting the first signal post 13 and conducting electricity when they fall into the groove of the mounting groove 11a, thus providing insulation protection for the first signal post 13.

[0044] Please refer to the following: Figure 4 The socket assembly 10 also includes a bracket 14, which is made of an insulating material. The bracket 14 is mounted on the mounting base 11 and is used to fix the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 so that the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 are fixed relative to the mounting base 11.

[0045] Specifically, the mounting base 11 is also provided with a mounting hole 11d, wherein the mounting hole 11d and the mounting groove 11a are respectively located at both ends of the mounting base 11. The mounting base 11 is provided with a fastening hole 11e on the side wall of the mounting hole 11d, and the outer surface of the bracket 14 is provided with a fastening part 14a. The bracket 14 is also provided with a first support hole 14b and a second support hole 14c. The first conductive post 12 has a first step 12c protruding in its radial direction, and the first signal post 13 has a second step 13b protruding in its radial direction. When the bracket 14 is inserted into the mounting hole 11d and the fastening part 14a is engaged in the fastening hole 11e, the bracket 14 is locked relative to the mounting base 11. At this time, one end of the first conductive post 12 is inserted into the first support hole 14b, and the other end of the first conductive post 12 is inserted into the first insulating hole 112a. One end of the first step 12c abuts against the wall surface of the bracket 14 at the opening of the first support hole 14b, and the other end of the first step 12c abuts against the mounting base 11. This is equivalent to the mounting base 11 and the bracket 14 jointly clamping the first step 12c, so that the first conductive post 12 is locked relative to the mounting base 11. Similarly, one end of the first signal post 13 is inserted into the second support hole 14c, and the other end of the first signal post 13 is inserted into the second insulating hole 113a. One end of the second step 13b abuts against the wall of the bracket 14 at the opening of the second support hole 14c, and the other end of the second step 13b abuts against the mounting base 11. This means that the mounting base 11 and the bracket 14 together clamp the second step 13b, thereby fixing the first signal post 13 relative to the mounting base 11.

[0046] To help readers understand how the bracket 14 fixes the first signal post 13 and the first conductive post 12, the assembly process of the socket assembly 10 is described in detail below:

[0047] First, insert one end of the first conductive post 12 into the first support hole 14b until one end of the first step 12c abuts against the wall surface of the bracket 14 at the opening of the first support hole 14b. Then, insert one end of the first signal post 13 into the second support hole 14c until one end of the second step 13b abuts against the wall surface of the bracket 14 at the opening of the second support hole 14c. Next, align and insert the other end of the first conductive post 12 into the first insulating hole 112a, and the other end of the first signal post 13 into the first insulating hole 112a. Align and insert the bracket 14 into the mounting hole 11d until the other end of the first step 12c and the other end of the second step 13b abut against the mounting base 11. At this time, the fastening part 14a is also aligned with the fastening hole 11e. The fastening part 14a is engaged in the fastening hole 11e, and the bracket 14 is fixed relative to the mounting base 11. The mounting base 11 and the bracket 14 together clamp the first step 12c and the second step 13b, fixing the first signal post 13 and the first conductive post 12.

[0048] In some embodiments, the mounting base 11 is provided with a positioning post 114, which is located on the wall surface of the mounting base 11 at the opening of the mounting hole 11d and extends into the mounting hole 11d, protruding from the inner wall of the mounting hole 11d. The outer surface of the bracket 14 is provided with a positioning groove 14d, which extends along the axial direction of the bracket 14. When the bracket 14 needs to be inserted into the mounting hole 11d, the positioning post 114 and the positioning groove 14d are first aligned, and then the bracket 14 is pressed down. The positioning post 114 slides downward along the positioning groove 14d, thus achieving the positioning function of the mounting base 11 and the bracket 14 during assembly. Furthermore, because the positioning post 114 engages with the positioning groove 14d, the positioning post 114 and the positioning groove 14d cooperate to restrict the rotation of the bracket 14 relative to the mounting base 11.

[0049] In some embodiments, the bracket 14 is provided with a partition 14e, which is made of an insulating material. The second support hole 14c and the first support hole 14b are located on both sides of the partition 14e. The partition 14e separates the second support hole 14c and the first support hole 14b, thereby providing insulation between the first signal post 13 installed in the second support hole 14c and the first conductive post 12 installed in the first support hole 14b.

[0050] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 The outer wall of the mounting base 11 is provided with a second opening 11f, which communicates with the mounting hole 11d, making the side wall of the mounting hole 11d an elastic wall. The fastening hole 11e is provided in the elastic wall. When the bracket 14 is inserted into the mounting hole 11d, the elastic wall undergoes elastic deformation, making it easier for the bracket 14 to be inserted into the mounting hole 11d. Optionally, there are multiple second openings 11f, which are spaced apart to form multiple elastic walls.

[0051] For the first conductive post 12 and the first signal post 13 mentioned above, please refer to... Figures 5-6 The first conductive post 12 is a conductor with conductive properties, for example, a copper post. A first conductive hole 12b is provided at one end of the first conductive post 12 for insertion of components of the plug assembly 20. In some embodiments, there are multiple first conductive posts 12, arranged at intervals. The first signal post 13 is a conductor with conductive properties, for example, a copper post. A second conductive hole 13a is provided at one end of the first signal post 13 for insertion of components of the plug assembly 20.

[0052] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 7The first signal post 13 includes a post portion 131, a first elastic portion 132, and a second elastic portion 133. The first elastic portion 132 and the second elastic portion 133 are spaced apart at the other end of the post portion 131. A second conductive hole 13a extends from the gap between the first elastic portion 132 and the second elastic portion 133 to the post portion 131. The first elastic portion 132 is inclined toward the second elastic portion 133, and the second elastic portion 133 is inclined toward the first elastic portion 132, so that the cross-section of the second conductive hole 13a gradually decreases from the post portion 131 toward the first elastic portion 132 or the second elastic portion 133. When a component of the plug assembly 20 is inserted into the second conductive hole 13a, the first elastic portion 132 and the second elastic portion 133 clamp the component of the plug assembly 20, which helps to reduce the risk of separation between the component of the plug assembly 20 and the first signal post 13. In some embodiments, there are multiple first signal posts 13, which are arranged at intervals.

[0053] For the plug assembly 20 described above, please refer to... Figure 3 and Figure 8 The plug assembly 20 includes a plug body 21, a second conductive post 22, and a second signal post 23. The second conductive post 22 and the second signal post 23 are disposed on the plug body 21 and are spaced apart. The second conductive post 22 and the second signal post 23 are electrically connected to a second external device. When the plug assembly 20 is plugged into the socket assembly 10, the first conductive post 12 is inserted into the first conductive hole 12b, and the second conductive post 22 elastically abuts against the side wall of the first conductive hole 12b, thus connecting the first conductive post 12 and the second conductive post 22. The second signal post 23 is inserted into the second conductive hole 13a, and the second signal post 23 elastically abuts against the side wall of the second conductive hole 13a, thus connecting the first signal post 13 and the second signal post 23.

[0054] For the plug body 21 mentioned above, please refer to... Figure 8 The plug body 21 includes a plug socket 212 and a third insulating part 213 connected to each other. The outer diameter of the third insulating part 213 is adapted to the inner diameter of the mounting groove 11a. The third insulating part 213 has a third insulating hole 213a and a fourth insulating hole 213b. The second conductive post 22 is located in the third insulating hole 213a, and the second signal post 23 is located in the fourth insulating hole 213b. The third insulating part 213 has insulating properties, and the third insulating hole 213a and the fourth insulating hole 213b are independent of each other, thereby reducing the risk of the second signal post 23 and the second conductive post 22 making contact and conducting electricity. When the plug assembly 20 and the socket assembly 10 are plugged in, the third insulating part 213 is inserted into the mounting groove 11a, the first insulating part 112 is inserted into the third insulating hole 213a, and the second insulating part 113 is inserted into the fourth insulating hole 213b.

[0055] In some embodiments, please combine Figure 6 and Figure 8 The outer surface of the first insulating part 112 has a protruding sliding part 1121, and the side wall of the third insulating hole 213a has a recessed groove 213c. When the first insulating part 112 is inserted into the third insulating hole 213a, the sliding part 1121 is inserted into the groove 213c, and the sliding part 1121 can slide along the groove 213c. In addition, the sliding part 1121 and the groove 213c also cooperate to restrict the first insulating part 112 from rotating relative to the third insulating hole 213a.

[0056] Please reconsider. Figure 4 The plug body 21 also includes a limiting frame 216, which is disposed on the side of the plug body 212 away from the third insulating part 213. The limiting frame 216 is used to fix the second signal post 23 and the second conductive post 22.

[0057] For details, please see Figure 4 Based on, combined Figures 9-12 The plug holder 212 has a limiting groove 212b at one end opposite to the third insulating part 213, and a snap-fit ​​hole 212c is provided on the side wall of the limiting groove 212b. The limiting frame 216 is provided with a first limiting hole 216a and a second limiting hole 216b, and an elastic arm 216e extends along the axial direction of the limiting frame 216. The elastic arm 216e is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 216c. The second conductive post 22 has a third step 22b protruding in the radial direction, and the second signal post 23 has a fourth step 23a protruding in the radial direction. When the limiting frame 216 is received in the limiting groove 212b and the snap-fit ​​part 216c is engaged in the snap-fit ​​hole 212c, the limiting frame 216 is fixed to the plug holder 212. One end of the second conductive post 22 is inserted into the first limiting hole 216a, and the other end is inserted into the third insulating hole 213a. One end of the third step 22b abuts against the wall of the limiting frame 216 at the opening of the first limiting hole 216a, and the other end abuts against the plug body 212. The plug body 212 and the limiting frame 216 clamp and fix the third step 22b, thus fixing the second conductive post 22. Similarly, one end of the second signal post 23 is inserted into the second limiting hole 216b, and the other end is inserted into the fourth insulating hole 213b. One end of the fourth step 23a abuts against the wall of the limiting frame 216 at the opening of the second limiting hole 216b, and the other end abuts against the plug body 212. The plug body 212 and the limiting frame 216 clamp and fix the third step 22b, thereby fixing the second signal post 23.

[0058] To help readers understand how the limiting bracket 216 fixes the second signal post 23 and the second conductive post 22, the assembly process of the plug assembly 20 is described in detail below:

[0059] First, insert one end of the second conductive post 22 into the first limiting hole 216a until one end of the third step 22b abuts against the wall surface of the limiting frame 216 at the opening of the first limiting hole 216a. Then, insert one end of the second signal post 23 into the second limiting hole 216b until one end of the fourth step 23a abuts against the wall surface of the limiting frame 216 at the opening of the second limiting hole 216b. Next, align the other ends of the second conductive post 22 and the second signal post 23 with the third insulating hole 213a and the fourth insulating hole 213b, respectively, and press down the limiting frame 216 so that the other end of the second conductive post 22 is inserted into the third insulating hole 213a. The other end of the second signal post 23 is inserted into the fourth insulating hole 213b through hole 213a. The limiting bracket 216 is pressed down until it is pressed into the limiting groove 212b, until the other end of the third step 22b and the other end of the fourth step 23a abut against the plug body 212. At this time, the buckle 216c is also aligned with the buckle hole 212c and the buckle 216c is inserted into the buckle hole 212c. The limiting bracket 216 is fixed to the plug body 212, and the plug body 212 and the limiting bracket 216 together clamp and fix the third step 22b and the fourth step 23a, thereby fixing the second conductive post 22 and the second signal post 23.

[0060] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The limiting frame 216 has an alignment hole 216d, and the side wall of the limiting groove 212b has an alignment block 212d protruding. Before the limiting frame 216 is pressed into the limiting groove 212b, the alignment block 212d is inserted into the alignment hole 216d. The limiting frame 216 and the limiting groove 212b cooperate to restrict the limiting frame 216 from rotating relative to the plug socket 212.

[0061] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 8 and combined Figures 13-15The plug body 21 also includes a rotating sleeve 214. The rotating sleeve 214 has a hollow cylindrical structure and is fitted onto the plug socket 212. A portion of the plug socket 212 extends from one end of the rotating sleeve 214, and a third insulating portion 213 extends from the other end of the rotating sleeve 214. The rotating sleeve 214 can rotate relative to the plug socket 212, but it cannot slide relative to the plug socket 212 along its axial direction. A retaining portion 211 is provided on the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 214, and there is a gap between the outer wall of the plug socket 212 and the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 214. The gap is arranged around the rotation axis of the rotating sleeve 214. When the rotating sleeve 214 is rotated to align the locking part 211 with the first opening 11b3 on the slot 11b of the mounting base 11 of the socket assembly 10, the side wall of the mounting base 11 can be inserted into the gap between the outer wall of the plug body 21 and the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 214, and the locking part 211 can be inserted into the slot 11b along the first opening 11b3. After the locking part 211 is inserted into the slot 11b, the rotating sleeve 214 is rotated in the opposite direction so that the locking part 211 abuts against the inner wall of the protrusion 111 facing the slot 11b, and the rotating sleeve 214 and the mounting base 11 of the socket assembly 10 are fixed, thereby locking the plug assembly 20 and the socket assembly 10. Of course, when the locking part 211 is rotated to align with the first opening 11b3, the locking part 211 can slide out of the slot 11b along the first opening 11b3, releasing the lock between the plug assembly 20 and the socket assembly 10.

[0062] It should be noted that the first guide inclined surface 111a of the protrusion 111 guides the card part 211 to slide towards the first opening 11b3 during the insertion of the card part 211 into the card slot 11b, and inserts it into the card slot 11b through the first opening 11b3. In some embodiments, the card part 211 is provided with a second guide inclined surface 211a, which guides the card part 211 to align with the first opening 11b3 and insert it into the card slot 11b through the first opening 11b3, making the plug assembly 20 more smoothly inserted relative to the socket assembly 10.

[0063] In some embodiments, please continue reading Figure 8 and Figure 13 and combined Figure 16 and Figure 17The outer wall of the plug socket 212 is provided with a receiving cavity 21c. The plug body 21 also includes an elastic element 215, which is disposed in the receiving cavity 21c. One end of the elastic element 215 abuts against one side wall of the receiving cavity 21c. A protrusion 214a protrudes from the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 214. The protrusion 214a extends into the receiving cavity 21c and can slide along the receiving cavity 21c, so that the rotating sleeve 214 can rotate relative to the plug socket 212, but the rotating sleeve 214 cannot slide relative to the plug socket 212 along its axial direction. The portion of the protrusion 214a extending into the receiving cavity 21c also abuts against the other end of the elastic element 215. When the locking part 211 needs to be inserted into the slot 11b, the rotating sleeve 214 is first driven to rotate relative to the plug body 212, compressing the elastic element 215 until the locking part 211 is aligned with the first opening 11b3. Then, the locking part 211 is driven axially to slide into the slot 11b along the first opening 11b3. When the external force is released, the elastic element 215 returns to its original shape and drives the locking part 211 to slide towards the first side wall 11b1. At this time, the locking part 211 also abuts against the protrusion 111 axially. The protrusion 111 limits the locking part 211 axially, locking the plug assembly 20 and the socket assembly 10. The elastic element 215 keeps the locking part 211 abutting against the first side wall 11b1, so that the protrusion 111 remains aligned with the locking part 211 axially, so that the protrusion 111 keeps limiting the locking part 211 axially.

[0064] It should be noted that: the number of protrusions 214a, receiving cavities 21c and elastic members 215 is at least two. At least two protrusions 214a are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the rotating sleeve 214 on the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 214. At least two receiving cavities 21c are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the third insulating part 213. An elastic member 215 is disposed in a receiving cavity 21c. The portion of a protrusion 214a extending into a receiving cavity 21c also abuts against the other end of an elastic member 215.

[0065] To facilitate reader understanding, the following describes the process of plugging the plug assembly 20 into the socket assembly 10:

[0066] First, align the third insulating part 213 with the mounting groove 11a, the first insulating part 112 with the third insulating hole 213a, the second insulating part 113 with the fourth insulating hole 213b, the first conductive post 12 with the second conductive post 22, and the first signal post 13 with the second signal post 23. At this time, the locking part 211 and the protrusion 111 are aligned. By applying external force, the plug assembly 20 moves toward the socket assembly 10 until the locking part 211 abuts against the protrusion 111. When the plug assembly 20 continues to be pressed toward the socket assembly 10, the first guide inclined surface 111a guides the locking part 211 to slide into the first opening 11b3, while the protrusion 111 circumferentially presses the locking part 211, causing the rotating sleeve 214 to rotate relative to the plug body 212. The rotating sleeve 214 compresses the elastic member 215, directly aligning the locking part 211 with the first opening 11b3. Next, external force is applied to drive the plug assembly 20 toward the socket assembly 10 until the third insulating part 213 is inserted into the mounting groove 11a, the first insulating part 112 is inserted into the third insulating hole 213a, the second insulating part 113 is inserted into the fourth insulating hole 213b, the first conductive post 12 is connected to the second conductive post 22, the first signal post 13 is connected to the second signal post 23, and the locking part 211 slides into the locking groove 11b along the first opening 11b3. At this time, the elastic member 215 returns to its deformation, and the elastic member 215 drives the rotating sleeve 214 to rotate in the opposite direction, and drives the locking part 211 to slide toward and abut against the first side wall 11b1. At this time, the locking part 211 is aligned with the protrusion 111 along the axial direction, and the protrusion 111 limits the locking part 211 along the axial direction, thereby locking the plug assembly 20 and the socket assembly 10. Since the elastic member 215 holds the locking part 211 against the first side wall 11b1, the locking part 211 is kept aligned with the protrusion 111 in the axial direction, and the protrusion 111 keeps the locking part 211 in the axial direction to limit it, reducing the risk of the plug assembly 20 disengaging from the socket assembly 10.

[0067] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6 The plug assembly 20 also includes an elastic sleeve 24, which is disposed in the first conductive hole 12b of the first conductive post 12, and the outer wall of the elastic sleeve 24 elastically abuts against the inner wall of the first conductive hole 12b. When the first conductive post 12 abuts against the second conductive post 22, the elastic sleeve 24 is sleeved on the second conductive post 22, and the inner wall of the elastic sleeve 24 elastically abuts against the second conductive post 22.

[0068] In some embodiments, the sidewall of the first conductive post 12 is recessed to form a groove 112b, and the elastic sleeve 24 is disposed in the groove 112b. Alternatively, the sidewall of the first conductive post 12 may protrude with two spaced limiting portions, and the elastic sleeve 24 may be disposed between the two limiting portions, with the two limiting portions limiting the elastic sleeve 24.

[0069] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 18The elastic sleeve 24 includes a plurality of elastic arms 241 and an elastic band 242. Along the axial direction of the elastic band 242, an opening 242a is provided in the elastic band 242, and the opening 242a extends through the elastic band 242 along the axial direction of the elastic band 242, so that the elastic band 242 forms a first elastic portion 242b and a second elastic portion 242c. The opening 242a provides deformation space for the first elastic portion 242b and the second elastic portion 242c. The first elastic portion 242b and the second elastic portion 242c maintain a tendency to move in opposite directions, so that the elastic band 242 elastically abuts against the inner wall of the first conductive hole 12b. A plurality of elastic arms 241 are fixed to the elastic band 242, and the plurality of elastic arms 241 are spaced apart circumferentially along the elastic band 242, and the plurality of elastic arms 241 are inclined toward the central axis of the elastic band 242. The plurality of elastic arms 241 are used to clamp the second conductive post 22.

[0070] In some embodiments, there are two elastic bands 242, one elastic band 242 is disposed at one end of a plurality of elastic arms 241, and the other elastic band 242 is disposed at the other end of a plurality of elastic arms 241.

[0071] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 and combined Figure 9 The plug body 212 is provided with a sealing groove 21a, which surrounds the plug body 212. The plug assembly 20 also includes a sealing ring 26, which is disposed in the sealing groove 21a, and a portion of the sealing ring 26 protrudes from the sealing groove 21a. The sealing ring 26 protruding from the sealing groove 21a is used to abut against the side wall of the mounting groove 11a to prevent dust or rainwater from entering the first insulating hole 112a, the second insulating hole 113a, the third insulating hole 213a and the fourth insulating hole 213b, thereby reducing the risk of short circuit of the first conductive post 12 or the first signal post 13.

[0072] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 The plug socket 212 is provided with a travel groove 212a. The rotating sleeve 214 extends from one end away from the socket assembly 10 and has a supporting part 2141. The supporting part 2141 extends into the travel groove 212a and can rotate within the travel groove 212a. When the rotating sleeve 214 is in the first preset position, the supporting part 2141 abuts against one side wall of the travel groove 212a. When the rotating sleeve 214 is in the second preset position, the supporting part 2141 abuts against the other side wall of the travel groove 212a. The one side wall and the other side wall are arranged opposite to each other. The travel groove 212a and the supporting part 2141 cooperate to limit the rotation travel of the rotating sleeve 214.

[0073] Please continue reading. Figure 4The plug assembly 20 also includes an anti-contact element 25. One end of the second conductive post 22 is fixed to the mounting base 11, and the anti-contact element 25 is connected to the other end of the second conductive post 22. The anti-contact element 25 has an insulating function to prevent the user from touching the conductive post and reduce the risk of electric shock. Specifically, the end of the second conductive post 22 is provided with a connection hole (not shown). The anti-contact element 25 includes an anti-contact part (not shown), a connection part (not shown), and a hook part (not shown). The connection part is connected to the anti-contact part and the hook part respectively. The hook part passes through the connection hole and abuts against the step at the opening of the connection hole. In addition, the end face of the anti-contact part is provided with a guide slope with rounded corners. The guide slope is used to guide the second conductive post 22 into the first conductive hole 12b of the first conductive post 12.

[0074] In this embodiment of the application, the connector 100 includes a socket assembly 10 and a plug assembly 20. The socket assembly 10 includes a mounting base 11 and a first conductive post 12. The mounting base 11 is provided with a mounting groove 11a, and the first conductive post 12 is disposed in the mounting groove 11a. The mounting base 11 is used to be mounted on a first external device, and the first conductive post 12 is used to be electrically connected to the first external device. The mounting base 11 is also provided with a locking slot 11b. The plug assembly 20 includes a plug body 21 and a second conductive post 22. The second conductive post 22 is disposed on the plug body 21, and the first conductive post 12 corresponds to the second conductive post 22. The second conductive post 22 is used to be electrically connected to a second external device, and the plug body 21 is provided with a locking portion 211. When the drive socket assembly 10 is plugged into the plug assembly 20, part of the plug body 21 extends into the mounting groove 11a, the first conductive post 12 abuts against the second conductive post 22, and the locking part 211 engages with the locking groove 11b, thereby locking the plug assembly 20 relative to the socket assembly 10. This reduces the risk of the plug assembly 20 disengaging from the socket assembly 10 and the risk of poor contact between the first conductive post 12 of the socket assembly 10 and the second conductive post 22 of the plug assembly 20, further improving safety.

[0075] This utility model also provides an embodiment of an energy storage device, which includes the connector 100 described above. For the specific structure and function of the connector 100, please refer to the above embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0076] It should be noted that while the preferred embodiments of this utility model are provided in the specification and accompanying drawings, this utility model can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are not intended to impose additional limitations on the content of this utility model; their purpose is to provide a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of this utility model. Furthermore, the above-described technical features can be combined with each other to form various embodiments not listed above, all of which are considered to be within the scope of this utility model specification. Moreover, those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A connector, characterized in that, include: A socket assembly includes a mounting base and a first conductive post. The mounting base is provided with a mounting groove, and the first conductive post is disposed in the mounting groove. The mounting base is used to install on a first external device, and the first conductive post is used to electrically connect with the first external device. The mounting base is also provided with a locking slot. A plug assembly includes a plug body and a second conductive post. The second conductive post is disposed on the plug body, and the first conductive post corresponds to the second conductive post. The second conductive post is used for electrical connection with a second external device. The plug body is provided with a locking part. By driving the socket assembly to be inserted into the plug assembly, a portion of the plug body extends into the mounting groove. The first conductive post abuts against the second conductive post, and the locking part is engaged with the locking groove, so that the plug assembly is locked relative to the socket assembly. The first conductive post has a first conductive hole at one end. The plug assembly includes an elastic sleeve, which includes a plurality of elastic arms and an elastic band. The elastic band abuts against the inner wall of the first conductive hole. The plurality of elastic arms are spaced apart circumferentially along the elastic band and are inclined toward the central axis of the elastic band. The plurality of elastic arms are used to clamp the second conductive post. The socket assembly further includes a bracket, which is mounted on the mounting base. The bracket is provided with a first support hole and a partition. One end of the first conductive post is inserted into the first support hole, which is located on one side of the partition.

2. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plug body includes a plug base, a rotating sleeve, and an elastic element. The rotating sleeve is fitted onto the plug base and can rotate relative to the plug base. The locking part is disposed on the rotating sleeve, and there is a gap between the outer wall of the plug base and the rotating sleeve. One end of the elastic element is connected to the plug base, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the rotating sleeve. The elastic element is used to apply an elastic force to the rotating sleeve so that the locking part is kept engaged in the locking groove.

3. The connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The card slot has a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to each other. A protrusion extends from the first sidewall to the second sidewall. A first opening is formed between the protrusion and the second sidewall. The first opening is used for the card part to slide into the card slot. The elastic member is used to drive the card part to slide towards the first sidewall after the card part slides into the card slot, so that the protrusion is aligned with the card part in the axial direction. The protrusion limits the card part in the axial direction.

4. The connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protrusion is provided with a first guide inclined surface, which is used to guide the card part to align with the first opening; and / or, the card part is provided with a second guide inclined surface, which is used to guide the card part to be inserted into the card slot.

5. The connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plug socket is provided with a travel groove; The rotating sleeve is provided with a supporting part, which extends into the travel groove and can slide along the travel groove. When the rotating sleeve is in a first preset position, the supporting part abuts against one side wall of the travel groove. When the rotating sleeve is in a second preset position, the supporting part abuts against the other side wall of the travel groove. The one side wall and the other side wall are arranged opposite to each other. The travel groove and the supporting part cooperate to restrict the rotation travel of the rotating sleeve.

6. The connector according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The plug assembly also includes an anti-slip element, one end of the second conductive post is fixed to the mounting base, and the anti-slip element is connected to the other end of the second conductive post.

7. The connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, A connection hole is provided at one end of the second conductive post; The anti-collision component includes an anti-collision part, a connecting part, and a hook part. The connecting part is connected to the anti-collision part and the hook part respectively. The hook part passes through the connecting hole and abuts against the step at the opening of the connecting hole.

8. The connector according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The bracket is provided with a fastening part; The mounting base has a mounting hole at one end away from the plug assembly. A second opening is provided on the side wall of the mounting hole, and the second opening communicates with the mounting hole so that the side wall of the mounting hole forms an elastic wall. The elastic wall is provided with a fastening hole. The fastening part is used to fasten into the fastening hole when the bracket is inserted into the mounting hole and abuts against the first conductive post, so that the bracket and the mounting base jointly clamp the first conductive post.

9. The connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plug socket is provided with a sealing groove, which surrounds the plug socket; The plug assembly also includes a sealing ring disposed in the sealing groove, with a portion of the sealing ring protruding from the sealing groove, the protruding portion of the sealing ring abutting against the sidewall of the mounting groove.

10. An energy storage device, characterized in that, Includes the connector as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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