Self-locking connector

Abstract

The application relates to a self-locking connector, which comprises a first plug end assembly, a second plug end assembly and an elastic piece. The first plug end assembly comprises a first shell with a clamping groove on the periphery. The second plug end assembly comprises a second shell and a connecting sleeve. The connecting sleeve is rotatably sleeved on the second shell and can move to positions axially abutting against and separating from the limiting wall of the clamping groove. The outer wall of the second shell is provided with a first groove section, a second groove section and a third groove section which are sequentially distributed in the circumferential direction. The inner wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a first boss, a second boss and a third boss which are sequentially arranged in the circumferential direction. The first boss and the third boss are oppositely arranged. At the two limit positions in the rotating process of the connecting sleeve, the first boss respectively abuts against the two opposite groove walls of the first groove section. The elastic piece abuts between the third boss and the groove wall of the third groove section. When the connecting sleeve axially separates from the limiting wall, the elastic piece is compressed along the rotating direction of the connecting sleeve by the third boss and the groove wall of the third groove section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electrical connector technology, and in particular to a self-locking connector. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of electrical connector technology, the self-locking twist-lock connector has gradually emerged. The self-locking twist-lock connector allows the moving parts to rotate relative to the fixed parts in order to achieve the engagement and disengagement of the plug and socket.

[0003] In traditional self-locking rotary connectors, the moving element and the fixed element usually rely on a complex mechanical mating structure to ensure that the moving element can rotate within a preset angle and lock accurately.

[0004] However, the complex mechanical mating structure of traditional twist-lock self-locking connectors makes assembly difficult and inefficient. Utility Model Content

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a self-locking connector to address the above problems.

[0006] This application provides a self-locking connector, comprising a first insertion assembly, a second insertion assembly, and an elastic element. The first insertion assembly includes a first housing with a groove on its outer periphery. The second insertion assembly includes a second housing and a connecting sleeve, the connecting sleeve being rotatably fitted onto the second housing to move to a position where it axially abuts against and separates from the limiting wall of the groove. The outer wall of the second housing has a first groove segment, a second groove segment, and a third groove segment sequentially distributed in the circumferential direction. The inner wall of the connecting sleeve has a first boss and a second boss sequentially arranged in the circumferential direction. The connecting sleeve has a first protrusion and a third protrusion. The first protrusion is disposed opposite to the third protrusion and passes through the first groove. At the two extreme positions during the rotation of the connecting sleeve, the first protrusion abuts against the two opposite groove walls of the first groove. The second protrusion passes through the second groove and the third protrusion passes through the third groove. The elastic element abuts between the third protrusion and the groove wall of the third groove. When the connecting sleeve separates axially from the limiting wall, the elastic element is compressed by the third protrusion and the groove wall of the third groove in the rotation direction of the connecting sleeve.

[0007] In one embodiment, the second housing includes a first ring and a second ring, which are axially spaced to form a first groove segment, a second groove segment, and a third groove segment. The second ring is located away from the first insertion end assembly relative to the first ring. The first ring has an axially through-hole, a second through-hole, and a third through-hole. The first through-hole communicates with the first groove segment, the second through-hole communicates with the second groove segment, and the third through-hole communicates with the third groove segment. The connecting sleeve is fitted onto the second housing in a direction from the first ring to the second ring.

[0008] In one embodiment, the second housing includes a first limiting body protruding from the peripheral wall of the first groove segment and dividing the first groove segment into a first connecting area and a first locking area. The first limiting body includes a first inclined surface and a first stop surface. The first inclined surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the first connecting area. The first inclined surface gradually flares outward in the direction close to the first locking area. The first connecting area communicates with the first through hole. The first stop surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the first locking area. The first stop surface is used to abut against the first boss located in the first locking area.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second housing includes a second limiting body protruding from the peripheral wall of the second groove segment and dividing the second groove segment into a second connecting area and a second locking area. The second limiting body includes a second inclined surface and a second stop surface. The second inclined surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the second connecting area. The second inclined surface gradually flares outward in the direction close to the second locking area. The second connecting area communicates with the third through hole. The second stop surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the second locking area. The second stop surface is used to abut against the third protrusion located in the second locking area.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first boss includes a first inner protrusion and a first sliding portion. A first groove is formed on the outer periphery of the second ring. The first inner protrusion extends into the first groove segment and is spaced apart from the peripheral wall of the first groove segment. The first sliding portion is located in the first groove and slides in cooperation with the first groove. The third boss includes a second inner protrusion and a second sliding portion. A second groove is formed on the outer periphery of the second ring. The second inner protrusion extends into the third groove segment and is spaced apart from the peripheral wall of the third groove segment. The second sliding portion is located in the second groove and slides in cooperation with the second groove.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second housing further includes a limiting structure, which includes a first limiting portion and a second limiting portion; along the axial direction of the second housing, the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion are respectively protruding from two opposing groove walls of the third groove segment, and the limiting structure is located at one end of the third groove segment away from the third through hole, the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion clamp one end of the elastic member, and the other end of the elastic member abuts against the third boss.

[0012] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a retaining platform, and the retaining groove includes a first groove and a second groove arranged sequentially in the circumferential direction of the first housing. The first groove is connected to the end face of the first housing near the second insertion assembly along the axial direction of the first housing, so that the retaining platform can be axially withdrawn from the retaining groove. The second groove includes the limiting wall.

[0013] In one embodiment, there are multiple card stations, and the number of card slots matches the number of card stations, with each of the multiple card stations corresponding to one of the multiple card slots.

[0014] In one embodiment, the connecting sleeve further includes a sleeve body and a handle, wherein the first boss, the second boss and the third boss protrude from the inner wall of the sleeve body, and the handle is cantilevered and connected to the outer periphery of the sleeve body.

[0015] In one embodiment, the self-locking connector further includes a sealing ring, with the first housing fitted over the second housing, and the sealing ring abutting annularly between the inner wall of the first housing and the outer wall of the second housing.

[0016] In one embodiment, a locking platform is provided on the outer wall of the first housing, the connecting sleeve is fitted over the first housing, a portion of the inner wall of the connecting sleeve is spaced apart from the outer wall of the first housing to form a receiving cavity, the locking platform is located in the receiving cavity, and the locking platform is used to engage with the hook of the third plug assembly.

[0017] In the aforementioned self-locking connector, the connecting sleeve is rotatably fitted onto the second housing, and the connecting sleeve can move to a position where it axially abuts against and separates from the limiting wall of the slot. When the connecting sleeve axially abuts against the limiting wall, the first insertion assembly can form a self-locking mechanism with the second insertion assembly under the abutting action of the limiting wall. When the connecting sleeve axially separates from the limiting wall, the limiting wall no longer provides a limiting effect, and the first insertion assembly can separate from the second insertion assembly. A first boss passes through the first slot segment. At the two extreme positions during the rotation of the connecting sleeve, the first boss of the connecting sleeve abuts against the two opposing slot walls of the first slot segment, respectively. Thus, under the abutting limitation of the slot wall of the first slot segment, the connecting sleeve can only rotate within a expected angle range, improving its positional stability. A third boss passes through the third slot segment, and an elastic element abuts between the third boss and the slot wall of the third slot segment. When the connecting sleeve axially separates from the limiting wall, the elastic element is compressed by the third boss and the slot wall of the third slot segment in the rotation direction of the connecting sleeve. Therefore, when the connecting sleeve is not subjected to external rotational driving force, under the action of the elastic element, the connecting sleeve can be reset and stably maintained in the position of being engaged with the first housing, thereby improving self-locking stability.

[0018] Furthermore, in this application, the first and third bosses are arranged facing each other, that is, they are located on opposite sides of the second housing in the radial direction. This arrangement can fully utilize the solid area on the second housing, facilitating the machining of the aforementioned first and third groove segments on the second housing. At the same time, the second boss is located between the first and third bosses. Using the second boss as a reference, it is easy to distinguish the facing first and third bosses. Based on this, the position of the connecting sleeve can be accurately adjusted, ensuring accurate alignment of the first boss with the first groove segment and the third boss with the third groove segment, thereby improving the convenience and efficiency of assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a side view of a self-locking connector provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0020] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the self-locking connector shown.

[0021] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The self-locking connector shown is a cross-sectional view along line AA.

[0022] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The self-locking connector shown is a cross-sectional view along line BB.

[0023] Figure 5 for Figure 2 The diagram shows an isometric view of the first housing in the self-locking connector from another perspective.

[0024] Figure 6 for Figure 1 The top view of the connecting sleeve in the self-locking connector shown.

[0025] Figure 7 for Figure 1 The diagram shows an isometric view of the second housing and sealing ring in the self-locking connector.

[0026] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The second housing is shown as a cross-sectional view along line CC.

[0027] Figure 9 for Figure 1 The top view of the self-locking connector shown.

[0028] Figure 10 for Figure 9 The self-locking connector shown is a cross-sectional view along line DD.

[0029] Reference numerals: 10, self-locking connector; 10a, receiving cavity; 11, first insertion assembly; 12, second insertion assembly; 13, sealing ring; 100, first housing; 110, slot; 111, first groove; 112, second groove; 113, limiting wall; 120, locking platform; 130, first body; 200, second housing; 210, first groove segment; 211, first connecting area; 212, first locking area; 220, second groove segment; 230, third groove segment; 231, second connecting area; 232, second locking area; 240, first ring; 241, first through hole; 242, second through hole; 243, third through hole. Hole; 250, Second ring; 251, First slide groove; 252, Second slide groove; 260, First limiting body; 261, First inclined surface; 262, First stop surface; 270, Second limiting body; 271, Second inclined surface; 272, Second stop surface; 280, Second body; 290, Limiting structure; 291, First limiting part; 292, Second limiting part; 300, Connecting sleeve; 310, First boss; 311, First inner boss; 312, First sliding part; 320, Second boss; 330, Third boss; 340, Locking platform; 350, Sleeve body; 360, Handle; 400, First terminal; 500, Second terminal. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0031] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0032] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0033] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0034] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0035] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0036] Please see Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 1 A side view of a self-locking connector provided in one embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The exploded view of the self-locking connector shown is as follows. Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the self-locking connector along line AA. One embodiment of the self-locking connector 10 provided in this application includes a first insertion assembly 11 and a second insertion assembly 12, which are inserted into each other to achieve electrical conductivity. The self-locking connector 10 also includes an elastic element (not shown in the figure, the same below).

[0037] The first insertion assembly 11 includes a first housing 100, with a groove 110 on its outer periphery. The second insertion assembly 12 includes a second housing 200 and a connecting sleeve 300, which is rotatably fitted onto the second housing 200 to move to a position where it axially abuts against and separates from the limiting wall 113 of the groove 110. When the connecting sleeve 300 axially abuts against the limiting wall 113, the first insertion assembly 11 and the second insertion assembly 12 can form a self-locking mechanism under the abutting action of the limiting wall 113. When the connecting sleeve 300 axially separates from the limiting wall 113, the limiting wall 113 no longer provides a limiting function, and the first insertion assembly 11 can separate from the second insertion assembly 12.

[0038] The outer wall of the second housing 200 has a first groove segment 210, a second groove segment 220, and a third groove segment 230, which are sequentially distributed in the circumferential direction of the second housing 200. The inner wall of the connecting sleeve 300 has a first boss 310, a second boss 320, and a third boss 330, which are sequentially arranged in the circumferential direction of the connecting sleeve 300, with the first boss 310 and the third boss 330 facing each other. The first boss 310 passes through the first groove segment 210, the second boss 320 passes through the second groove segment 220, and the third boss 330 passes through the third groove segment 230.

[0039] At the two extreme positions during the rotation of the connecting sleeve 300, the first boss 310 abuts against the two opposing groove walls of the first groove segment 210, respectively. Thus, under the limiting contact of the groove wall of the first groove segment 210, the connecting sleeve 300 can only rotate within a predetermined angle range, improving its positional stability. The elastic element abuts between the third boss 330 and the groove wall of the third groove segment 230. When the connecting sleeve 300 axially separates from the limiting wall 113, the elastic element is compressed by the third boss 330 and the groove wall of the third groove segment 230 in the rotational direction of the connecting sleeve 300. Therefore, when the connecting sleeve 300 is no longer subject to external rotational driving force, under the action of the elastic element, the connecting sleeve 300 can reset and stably maintain its engaged position with the first housing 100, improving self-locking stability.

[0040] In the self-locking connector 10 described above, the first boss 310 and the third boss 330 are arranged facing each other, that is, they are located on opposite sides of the second housing 200 in the radial direction. This arrangement can make full use of the solid area on the second housing 200, making it easier to process the first groove segment 210 and the third groove segment 230 on the second housing 200. At the same time, the second boss 320 is located between the first boss 310 and the third boss 330. Using the second boss 320 as a reference, it is easy to distinguish the facing first boss 310 and the third boss 330. Based on this, the position of the connecting sleeve 300 can be accurately adjusted so that the first boss 310 is accurately aligned with the first groove segment, and the third boss 330 is accurately aligned with the third groove segment, improving the convenience and efficiency of assembly.

[0041] Combination Figure 3 It is easy to understand that the first boss 310 and the third boss 330 are arranged facing each other, and their positions are roughly symmetrical. Furthermore, the first boss 310 and the third boss 330 are embedded between the connecting sleeve 300 and the second housing 200. Both are typically small in size, which can easily lead to difficulties in distinguishing between the first boss 310 and the third boss 330 during assembly, affecting assembly efficiency. This application configures a second boss 320 distributed between the first boss 310 and the third boss 330. Using the second boss 320 as a reference, it is easier to distinguish between the facing first boss 310 and the third boss 330. That is, when assembling the connecting sleeve 300 and the second housing 200, the position of the second boss 320 can quickly distinguish the first boss 310 and the third boss 330, facilitating the alignment of the first boss 310 with the first groove segment 210 and the third boss 330 with the third groove segment 230.

[0042] Please see Figure 2In one embodiment, the first terminal assembly 11 includes a first terminal 400 that passes through the first housing 100. The second terminal assembly 12 includes a second terminal 500 that passes through the second housing 200. The first terminal 400 and the second terminal 500 are mated and plugged into each other, and are electrically connected. As one example, the first terminal 400 can be configured as a male terminal, and the second terminal 500 can be configured as a female terminal, with the two mating and plugging into each other to achieve electrical connection.

[0043] Furthermore, there can be multiple first terminals 400 and multiple second terminals 500, with each of the multiple first terminals 400 and multiple second terminals 500 being plugged into one another. Even further, some of the multiple first terminals 400 are configured as male terminals and others as female terminals; correspondingly, some of the multiple second terminals 500 are configured as female terminals and others as male terminals.

[0044] In one embodiment, the first plug assembly 11 is not limited to being plugged into the second plug assembly 12 to form a self-locking connection; the first plug assembly 11 can also be plugged into other plug assemblies to form a self-locking connection. This configuration allows the first plug assembly 11 to be plugged into different electrical devices, making the electrical devices having the first plug assembly 11 suitable for different scenarios. Furthermore, in various embodiments of this application, the first plug assembly 11 and the second plug assembly 12 achieve self-locking through a rotational snap-fit ​​connection. However, the first plug assembly 11 is not limited to forming a self-locking connection with other plug assemblies through a rotational snap-fit ​​connection. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 Combined Figure 2 In one embodiment, a locking platform 120 protrudes from the outer wall of the first housing 100. When the first insertion assembly 11 and the second insertion assembly 12 are inserted, the connecting sleeve 300 is fitted over the first housing 100. A portion of the inner wall of the connecting sleeve 300 forms a receiving cavity 10a with the outer wall of the first housing 100. The locking platform 120 is located within the receiving cavity 10a and is used to engage with the hook of the third insertion assembly (not shown, the same below). Since the locking platform 120 is located within the receiving cavity 10a, when the first insertion assembly 11 is used to cooperate with the second insertion assembly 12, the locking platform 120 will not interfere with the smooth insertion and self-locking of the two. However, when the first insertion assembly 11 is used to insert with the third insertion assembly, the locking platform 120 can engage with the hook of the third insertion assembly to achieve self-locking. In short, the first plug assembly 11 provided in this embodiment can not only engage and self-lock with the second plug assembly 12 through its slot 110, but also self-lock with the third plug assembly through the locking platform 120. The first plug assembly 11 has two self-locking methods, and the two self-locking methods do not interfere with each other, thereby expanding the application scenarios of the first plug assembly 11.

[0045] In combination with the above, by configuring the second boss 320 as an assembly reference, this application can facilitate the determination of the circumferential position of the locking platform 120, aligning it with the circumferential position of the receiving cavity 10a, thereby reducing the risk of interference between the locking platform 120 and the insertion of the first insertion assembly 11 and the second insertion assembly 12.

[0046] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 6 Combined Figure 2 In one embodiment, the inner wall of the connecting sleeve 300 is provided with a retaining platform 340 for engaging with the first housing 100. The retaining groove 110 includes a first groove 111 and a second groove 112, which communicate with each other and are arranged sequentially in the circumferential direction of the first housing 100. Thus, when the connecting sleeve 300 rotates, the retaining platform 340 can move between a position within the first groove 111 and a position within the second groove 112. The first groove 111 communicates axially with the end face of the first housing 100 near the second insertion assembly 12, allowing the retaining platform 340 to exit the retaining groove 110 axially. The second groove 112 includes a limiting wall 113 as described above. In other words, when the locking platform 340 is located within the first groove 111, the locking platform 340 can move axially along the first groove 111 to the end face of the first housing 100 and disengage from the first groove 111. That is, at this time, the connecting sleeve 300 can be axially separated from the first housing 100. When the locking platform 340 is located within the second groove 112, the locking platform 340 abuts axially against the limiting wall 113, and the connecting sleeve 300 cannot be axially separated from the first housing 100. At this time, the first insertion assembly 11 and the second insertion assembly 12 form a self-locking mechanism.

[0047] For ease of explanation, the circumferential position of the connecting sleeve 300 relative to the first housing 100 when the locking platform 340 is in the first groove 111 is referred to as the unlocked position; the circumferential position of the connecting sleeve 300 relative to the first housing 100 when the locking platform 340 is in the second groove 112 and axially abuts against the limiting wall 113 is referred to as the locked position. The unlocked position and the locked position are two extreme positions of the connecting sleeve 300 during rotation. In other words, when the first boss 310 abuts against the two opposing groove walls of the first groove segment 210, the connecting sleeve 300 is in the unlocked position or the locked position. During the process of the connecting sleeve 300 moving from the locked position to the unlocked position, the elastic element is gradually compressed by the third boss 330 and the groove wall of the third groove segment 230 in the rotation direction of the connecting sleeve 300. Therefore, under the action of the elastic element, the connecting sleeve 300 always has a tendency to move to the locked position and remain in the locked position, improving the stability of the connecting sleeve 300 in the locked position, that is, improving the stability of self-locking.

[0048] Please continue reading. Figure 5 and Figure 6Combined Figure 3 In one embodiment, there are multiple card holders 340, and the number of card slots 110 matches the number of card holders 340, with each card holder 340 corresponding to a different card slot 110. This arrangement further improves the stability of the self-locking mechanism. It is understood that the multiple card holders 340 can be spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the connecting sleeve 300, and the multiple card slots 110 can be spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the first housing 100.

[0049] Please see Figure 5 In one embodiment, the first housing 100 includes a first body 130, and a first terminal 400 passes through the first body 130. For example... Figure 6 The connecting sleeve 300 includes a sleeve body 350, a locking platform 340, a first protrusion 310, a second protrusion 320 and a third protrusion 330, all of which are located on the inner wall of the sleeve body 350.

[0050] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 Combined Figure 6 The second housing 200 includes a second body 280, a first ring 240, and a second ring 250. Both the first ring 240 and the second ring 250 are disposed on the second body 280, and the second terminal 500 passes through the second body 280. The first ring 240 and the second ring 250 are axially spaced to form a first groove segment 210, a second groove segment 220, and a third groove segment 230. The second ring 250 is located away from the first insertion assembly 11 relative to the first ring 240. Figure 8 The first ring 240 has an axially penetrating first through hole 241, a second through hole 242, and a third through hole 243, which are arranged sequentially along the circumferential direction of the second housing 200. The first through hole 241 connects to the first groove segment 210, allowing the first boss 310 to be inserted into the first groove segment 210. The second through hole 242 connects to the second groove segment 220, allowing the second boss 320 to be inserted into the second groove segment 220. The third through hole 243 connects to the third groove segment 230, allowing the third boss 330 to be inserted into the third groove segment 230. The connecting sleeve 300 is fitted onto the second housing 200 in a direction from the first ring 240 to the second ring 250. As mentioned above, using the second boss 320 as an assembly positioning reference, the positions of the first boss 310 and the third boss 330 can be easily determined, thereby facilitating the adjustment of the connecting sleeve 300 to the position where the first boss 310 is aligned with the first through hole 241 and the third boss 330 is aligned with the third through port, thus improving assembly efficiency.

[0051] Please continue reading. Figure 8 Combined Figure 6 and Figure 7In one embodiment, the second housing 200 includes a limiting body disposed within a groove segment of the second housing 200 to limit the boss located within the groove segment, reducing the risk of the boss detaching from the through hole and exiting the groove segment. As one example, the second housing 200 includes a first limiting body 260, which protrudes from the peripheral wall of the first groove segment 210 and divides the first groove segment 210 into a first connecting area 211 and a first locking area 212. The first connecting area 211 communicates with the first through hole 241. That is, after the first boss 310 enters the first groove segment 210 through the first through hole 241, it is located within the first connecting area 211. The first limiting body 260 includes a first inclined surface 261 and a first stop surface 262. The first inclined surface 261 faces the first through hole 241 and is part of the structure that encloses and forms the first connecting area 211. Furthermore, the first inclined surface 261 gradually flares outward in the direction approaching the first locking area 212, meaning that when the first boss 310 moves along the first inclined surface 261, it can gradually move radially outward to pass over the first limiting body 260 and engage within the first locking area 212. The first stop surface 262 is a partial structure that encloses and forms the first locking area 212. The first stop surface 262 is used to abut against the first boss 310 located within the first locking area 212 to restrict the position of the first boss 310 and reduce the risk of the first boss 310 dislodging from the first locking area 212. It should be noted that the first stop surface 262 is also the groove wall of the first groove segment 210. In this embodiment, at the two extreme positions during the rotation of the connecting sleeve 300, the first boss 310 abuts against the first stop surface 262 and the groove wall of the first groove segment 210, respectively.

[0052] Please continue reading. Figure 8 As another example, the second housing 200 may further include a second limiting body 270, which protrudes from the peripheral wall of the third groove segment 230 and divides the third groove segment 230 into a second connecting area 231 and a second locking area 232. The second connecting area 231 communicates with the third through hole 243. That is, after the third boss 330 enters the third groove segment 230 through the third through hole 243, it is located within the second connecting area 231. The second limiting body 270 includes a second inclined surface 271 and a second stop surface 272. The second inclined surface 271 faces the third through hole 243 and is part of the structure that encloses and forms the second connecting area 231. Furthermore, the second inclined surface 271 gradually flares outward in the direction close to the second locking area 232, that is, when the third boss 330 moves along the second inclined surface 271, it can gradually move radially outward to pass over the second limiting body 270 and engage in the second locking area 232. The second stop surface 272 is a partial structure that encloses and forms the second locking area 232. The second stop surface 272 is used to abut against the third protrusion 330 located in the second locking area 232 to limit the position of the third protrusion 330 and reduce the risk of the third protrusion 330 coming out of the second locking area 232.

[0053] By configuring each limiting body, the boss can move stably within the expected range, thereby improving the positional stability of the connecting sleeve 300.

[0054] Please see Figure 10 Combined Figure 7 In one embodiment, the first protrusion 310 includes a first inner protrusion 311 and a first sliding portion 312, with the first inner protrusion 311 and the first sliding portion 312 axially connected. A first groove 251 is formed on the outer periphery of the second ring 250, and the first inner protrusion 311 extends into the first groove segment 210 and is spaced apart from the peripheral wall of the first groove segment 210. Due to the radial distance between the first inner protrusion 311 and the peripheral wall of the first groove segment 210, i.e., the depth to which the first inner protrusion 311 extends into the first groove segment 210 is relatively small, it is easier for it to be pushed outwards by the first inclined surface 261 and cross the first limiting body 260. The first sliding portion 312 is located within the first groove 251 and slides in cooperation with the first groove 251. The cooperation between the first sliding portion 312 and the first groove 251 improves the relative positional stability of the connecting sleeve 300 and the second housing 200.

[0055] In one embodiment, the third boss 330 includes a second inner protrusion and a second sliding portion, with the second inner protrusion and the second sliding portion axially connected. A second groove 252 is formed on the outer periphery of the second ring 250, and the second inner protrusion extends into the third groove segment 230 and is spaced apart from the peripheral wall of the third groove segment 230. Due to the radial distance between the second inner protrusion and the peripheral wall of the third groove segment 230, i.e., the depth to which the second inner protrusion extends into the third groove segment 230 is relatively small, it is easier for it to be pushed outwards by the second inclined surface 271 and cross the second limiting body 270. The cooperation between the second sliding portion and the second groove 252 improves the relative positional stability of the connecting sleeve 300 and the second housing 200.

[0056] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 In one embodiment, the second housing 200 further includes a limiting structure 290, which is disposed in the third groove 230. The limiting structure 290 cooperates with the elastic member to limit the position of the elastic member in the third groove 230, so that the elastic member can always provide elastic reset to the connecting sleeve 300.

[0057] Furthermore, the limiting structure 290 includes a first limiting portion 291 and a second limiting portion 292, which are disposed facing each other. Along the axial direction of the second housing 200, the first limiting portion 291 and the second limiting portion 292 protrude from the two opposing groove walls of the third groove segment 230. The limiting structure 290 is located at one end of the third groove segment 230 away from the third through hole 243. The first limiting portion 291 and the second limiting portion 292 clamp one end of the elastic member, and the other end of the elastic member abuts against the third boss 330.

[0058] In one embodiment, the elastic element can be constructed as a compression spring. Of course, other components with elastic properties can also be used as the elastic element, which will not be elaborated here.

[0059] Please continue reading. Figure 6 In one embodiment, the connecting sleeve 300 further includes a handle 360, which is cantilevered and connected to the outer periphery of the sleeve body 350. Thus, the connecting sleeve 300 can be easily rotated by the handle 360, allowing the connecting sleeve 300 to move between the unlocked position and the locked position.

[0060] Please see Figure 10 Combined Figure 4 In one embodiment, the self-locking connector 10 further includes a sealing ring 13. The first housing 100 is fitted over the second housing 200, and the sealing ring 13 is annularly abutted between the inner wall of the first housing 100 and the outer wall of the second housing 200. Thus, the sealing performance between the first housing 100 and the second housing 200 can be improved by the sealing ring 13, thereby improving the waterproof performance of the self-locking connector 10.

[0061] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0062] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A self-locking connector, characterized in that, The self-locking connector includes: A first insertion assembly, the first insertion assembly including a first housing, the outer periphery of the first housing having a slot; The second insertion assembly includes a second housing and a connecting sleeve. The connecting sleeve is rotatably fitted onto the second housing to move to a position where it axially abuts against and separates from the limiting wall of the slot. The outer wall of the second housing has a first groove segment, a second groove segment, and a third groove segment distributed sequentially in the circumferential direction. The inner wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a first boss, a second boss, and a third boss arranged sequentially in the circumferential direction. The first boss and the third boss are arranged facing each other. The first boss passes through the first groove segment. At two extreme positions during the rotation of the connecting sleeve, the first boss abuts against the two opposing groove walls of the first groove segment, the second boss passes through the second groove segment, and the third boss passes through the third groove segment. An elastic element abuts against the groove wall of the third boss and the third groove segment. When the connecting sleeve separates axially from the limiting wall, the elastic element is compressed by the groove wall of the third boss and the third groove segment in the rotation direction of the connecting sleeve.

2. The self-locking connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second housing includes a first ring and a second ring, which are axially spaced to form a first groove segment, a second groove segment and a third groove segment, with the second ring being located away from the first plug assembly relative to the first ring; The first ring has an axially penetrating first through hole, a second through hole, and a third through hole. The first through hole connects to the first groove segment, the second through hole connects to the second groove segment, and the third through hole connects to the third groove segment. The connecting sleeve is fitted onto the second housing along the direction from the first ring to the second ring.

3. The self-locking connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second housing includes a first limiting body, which protrudes from the peripheral wall of the first groove segment and divides the first groove segment into a first connecting area and a first locking area. The first limiting body includes a first inclined surface and a first stop surface. The first inclined surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the first connecting area. The first inclined surface gradually flares outward in the direction close to the first locking area. The first connecting area communicates with the first through hole. The first stop surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the first locking area. The first stop surface is used to abut against the first boss located within the first locking area; and / or The second housing includes a second limiting body, which protrudes from the peripheral wall of the second groove segment and divides the second groove segment into a second connecting area and a second locking area. The second limiting body includes a second inclined surface and a second stop surface. The second inclined surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the second connecting area. The second inclined surface gradually flares outward in the direction close to the second locking area. The second connecting area communicates with the third through hole. The second stop surface is a partial structure that encloses and forms the second locking area. The second stop surface is used to abut against the third protrusion located in the second locking area.

4. The self-locking connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first protrusion includes a first inner protrusion and a first sliding part. A first sliding groove is provided on the outer periphery of the second ring. The first inner protrusion extends into the first groove segment and is spaced apart from the peripheral wall of the first groove segment. The first sliding part is located in the first sliding groove and slides with the first sliding groove. The third protrusion includes a second inner protrusion and a second sliding part. A second sliding groove is provided on the outer periphery of the second ring. The second inner protrusion extends into the third groove segment and is spaced apart from the peripheral wall of the third groove segment. The second sliding part is located in the second sliding groove and slides in cooperation with the second sliding groove.

5. The self-locking connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second housing also includes a limiting structure, which includes a first limiting part and a second limiting part; Along the axial direction of the second housing, the first limiting part and the second limiting part are respectively protruding from the two opposing groove walls of the third groove segment, and the limiting structure is located at one end of the third groove segment away from the third through hole. The first limiting part and the second limiting part clamp one end of the elastic member, and the other end of the elastic member abuts against the third boss.

6. The self-locking connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a locking platform. The locking groove includes a first groove and a second groove arranged sequentially in the circumferential direction of the first housing. The first groove is connected to the end face of the first housing near the second insertion assembly along the axial direction of the first housing, so that the locking platform can be axially withdrawn from the locking groove. The second groove includes the limiting wall.

7. The self-locking connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The number of card stations is multiple, and the number of card slots matches the number of card stations, with each card station and each card slot corresponding to the other.

8. The self-locking connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting sleeve also includes a sleeve body and a handle. The first boss, the second boss and the third boss protrude from the inner wall of the sleeve body, and the handle is cantilevered and connected to the outer periphery of the sleeve body.

9. The self-locking connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The self-locking connector further includes a sealing ring, with the first housing fitted over the second housing, and the sealing ring abutting against the inner wall of the first housing and the outer wall of the second housing in a ring shape.

10. The self-locking connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The outer wall of the first housing has a protruding locking platform. The connecting sleeve is fitted over the first housing. A portion of the inner wall of the connecting sleeve is spaced apart from the outer wall of the first housing to form a receiving cavity. The locking platform is located within the receiving cavity and is used to engage with the hook of the third insertion assembly.

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