A connection structure, cooling pipeline, thermal management system and vehicle

Abstract

This application discloses a connection structure, cooling pipeline, thermal management system, and vehicle. The connection structure includes a first pipe connector, a second pipe connector, and an elastic element. The first pipe connector has a first direction, and the second pipe connector is inserted into the first pipe connector along the first direction. The elastic element is at least partially embedded in the first pipe connector and the second pipe connector to restrict the relative movement between the first pipe connector and the second pipe connector. The surface of the elastic element is provided with a low-friction coating. The low-friction coating can reduce the coefficient of friction of the surface of the elastic element, thereby reducing the frictional force between the first pipe connector and the elastic element during the insertion of the first pipe connector into the second pipe connector. This reduces the assembly force required by the operator during assembly, reduces the installation difficulty, and improves the assembly efficiency. Furthermore, no additional lubricant is required, ensuring cleanliness during operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of vehicle technology, specifically relating to a connection structure, cooling pipeline, thermal management system, and vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Quick-connect fittings are components used to connect pipes into pipelines. They play a role in connecting, controlling, and changing direction in pipelines. Quick-connect fittings typically include a male connector, a female connector, and a retaining ring. The male connector can be inserted into the female connector, and the retaining ring limits the position of the male connector, thereby ensuring a stable connection between the male and female connectors.

[0003] In related technologies, the part of the male connector that inserts into the female connector is made of aluminum, which has a large surface roughness and is relatively soft. This results in a large frictional force between the male connector and the retaining spring when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, requiring a large assembly force and affecting the assembly efficiency of the operator. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application aims to provide a connection structure, cooling pipeline, thermal management system, and vehicle that can solve the problem in related technologies where the part of the male connector that inserts into the female connector is made of aluminum, which has a large surface roughness and is relatively soft. This results in a large frictional force between the male connector and the retaining spring when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, requiring a large assembly force and affecting the assembly efficiency of the operator.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application is implemented as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application propose a connection structure, including: a first pipe connector, the first pipe connector having a first direction;

[0007] The second pipe connector is inserted into the first pipe connector along the first direction;

[0008] An elastic element is at least partially embedded in the first pipe joint and the second pipe joint to restrict the relative movement of the first pipe joint and the second pipe joint, and the surface of the elastic element is provided with a low-friction coating.

[0009] Optionally, the first pipe joint is provided with a first groove arranged circumferentially, and the second pipe joint is provided with a second groove arranged at least partially circumferentially. The first groove can communicate with the second groove, and the elastic element is at least partially embedded in the first groove and the second groove.

[0010] Optionally, the thickness of the low-friction coating is D, which satisfies: 15μm≤D≤25μm.

[0011] Optionally, the elastic element includes a lifting portion and two snap-fit ​​portions, the two snap-fit ​​portions are disposed at both ends of the lifting portion and extend in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, the outer periphery of the two snap-fit ​​portions is provided with the low-friction coating, and the snap-fit ​​portions are deformable;

[0012] When the first pipe connector is inserted into the second pipe connector, both of the snap-fit ​​parts can abut against and deform the outer periphery of the first pipe connector so that the snap-fit ​​parts are embedded in the first groove.

[0013] Optionally, each of the two snap-fit ​​portions is provided with a snap hook at one end away from the lifting portion, and a snap groove is provided at the position corresponding to the snap hook on the outer periphery of the second pipe connector. The snap groove communicates with the second groove and extends along the first direction, and the snap hook can snap into the snap groove.

[0014] Optionally, the two hooks extend away from the latching portion in opposite directions, and the slots are located on both sides of the second groove along the first direction.

[0015] Optionally, the first pipe connector is provided with a first channel, and the second pipe connector is provided with a second channel. The first pipe connector is inserted into the second channel to connect the first channel and the second channel.

[0016] The first pipe connector has a protrusion on its outer periphery, and the second channel has a third groove on its inner wall. When the first pipe connector is inserted into the second channel, the protrusion is inserted into the third groove to restrict the circumferential rotation of the first pipe connector.

[0017] Optionally, the first pipe connector includes a body portion and a connecting portion, the connecting portion being connected to one end of the body portion facing the second pipe connector, the first channel being disposed within the body portion and the connecting portion, the first groove being disposed on the outer periphery of the connecting portion, and the connecting portion being able to be inserted into the second channel;

[0018] The outer periphery of the connecting part is provided with an abutting section. From the second pipe joint to the first pipe joint, the cross-sectional area of ​​the abutting section increases in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. When the connecting part is inserted into the second channel, the abutting section abuts against the two snap-fit ​​parts, so that the two snap-fit ​​parts deform in opposite directions.

[0019] Optionally, the low-friction coating is a polytetrafluoroethylene coating.

[0020] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a cooling pipeline, comprising: at least two cooling pipes and a connection structure as described in any of the preceding claims, the connection structure being used to connect at least two of the cooling pipes.

[0021] Thirdly, embodiments of this application propose a thermal management system, including: a connection structure as described in any of the preceding claims, or a cooling pipeline as described in the preceding claims.

[0022] Fourthly, embodiments of this application propose a vehicle including a thermal management system as described above.

[0023] In the embodiments of this application, the connection structure includes: a first pipe joint, a second pipe joint, and an elastic element. The first pipe joint has a first direction, and the second pipe joint is inserted into the first pipe joint along the first direction. The elastic element is at least partially embedded in the first pipe joint and the second pipe joint to restrict the relative movement of the first pipe joint and the second pipe joint. The surface of the elastic element is provided with a low-friction coating. The low-friction coating can reduce the coefficient of friction of the surface of the elastic element, thereby reducing the frictional force between the first pipe joint and the elastic element during the insertion of the first pipe joint into the second pipe joint. This reduces the assembly force required by the operator during assembly, reduces the installation difficulty, and improves the assembly efficiency. Furthermore, no additional lubricant is required, ensuring cleanliness during operation.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 According to the embodiments of this application, along Figure 1 Sectional view of line AA in the middle;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first pipe connector according to an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second pipe connector according to an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 5 According to the embodiments of this application, along Figure 4 Sectional view of the middle BB line;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic element according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure label:

[0033] 1: First pipe connector; 10: First channel; 11: First groove; 12: Protrusion; 13: Body part; 14: Connecting part; 141: Abutting section; 2: Second pipe connector; 20: Second channel; 201: Third groove; 21: Second groove; 22: Slot; 3: Elastic element; 31: Lifting part; 32: Snap-fitting part; 33: Hook; X: First direction. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail. Examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0035] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. Furthermore, "and / or" in the specification and claims indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0036] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, 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.

[0037] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0038] Before explaining the connection structure, cooling pipes, thermal management system, and vehicle provided in the embodiments of this application, the application scenarios of the connection structure, cooling pipes, thermal management system, and vehicle provided in the embodiments of this application will be specifically described:

[0039] The vehicle thermal management system (TMS) is a critical system used to regulate the operating temperature of various components in a vehicle, ensuring that components such as the engine, motor, battery, electronic control system, and air conditioning operate within their optimal temperature range to improve efficiency, extend lifespan, and ensure safety. With the development of new energy vehicles, thermal management systems have become more complex and intelligent.

[0040] The cooling pipes in the thermal management system are crucial components that ensure key parts such as the engine, battery pack, motor, and electronic control system operate within suitable temperatures. Their core function is to transfer excess heat to the radiator or heat exchanger through the circulation of coolant, maintaining a stable system temperature. Due to space constraints within the vehicle and the need to connect cooling pipes between different components, quick-connect fittings are typically required to link the cooling pipes of different components together.

[0041] In related technologies, quick-connect couplings typically include a male connector, a female connector, and a retaining spring that limits their movement. During use, the male connector is inserted into the female connector to connect their respective cooling pipes, while the retaining spring prevents them from separating, thus achieving quick connection. During the insertion of the male connector into the female connector, the male connector usually needs to open the retaining spring. Because the male connector is typically made of aluminum, its surface roughness and softness result in significant friction between the male connector and the retaining spring when inserting it into the female connector, requiring considerable assembly force. Therefore, in actual production, lubricant is usually applied to the male connector, but this increases operator time and affects product cleanliness.

[0042] Therefore, this application provides a connection structure, cooling pipeline, thermal management system, and vehicle. The connection structure, cooling pipeline, thermal management system, and vehicle provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments and application scenarios.

[0043] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the connection structure according to some embodiments of this application includes: a first pipe joint 1, a second pipe joint 2, and an elastic member 3. The first pipe joint 1 has a first direction X, and the second pipe joint 2 is inserted into the first pipe joint 1 along the first direction X. The elastic member 3 is at least partially embedded in the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2 to restrict the relative movement of the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2. The surface of the elastic member 3 is provided with a low-friction coating (not shown in the figure).

[0044] In this embodiment, by providing a low-friction coating on the surface of the elastic element 3, the coefficient of friction of the surface of the elastic element 3 is reduced. As a result, when the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second pipe connector 2, the friction between the first pipe connector 1 and the elastic element 3 is reduced, thereby reducing the assembly force required by the operator during assembly, reducing the installation difficulty, and thus improving the assembly efficiency. Furthermore, no lubricant is required, ensuring cleanliness during operation.

[0045] In specific applications, the surface of the elastic element 3 is provided with a low-friction coating to reduce the coefficient of friction of the elastic element 3. The low-friction coating can be any one of polytetrafluoroethylene coating, DLC diamond-like carbon low-friction coating, PTFE-Cu composite coating, etc., as long as it can reduce the coefficient of friction of the elastic element 3. Those skilled in the art can choose according to actual needs, and this application does not limit it.

[0046] It should be noted that the connection structure has a separated state and a plugged state. When the connection structure is in the separated state, the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2 are separated, and the elastic element 3 is embedded in the second pipe joint 2. When the connection structure is in the plugged state, the first pipe joint 1 is inserted into the second pipe joint 2, and the elastic element 3 is at least partially embedded in the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2, thereby restricting the relative movement between the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2 and ensuring the reliability of the connection between the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2.

[0047] Understandably, when the elastic element 3 is at least partially embedded in the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2, it may be that the overlapping insertion sections of the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2 each have a groove, and the groove on the first pipe joint 1 communicates with the groove on the second pipe joint 2, so that the elastic element 3 is partially inserted into the groove in the first pipe joint 1 and the other part is inserted into the groove in the second pipe joint 2; or the mating part of the first pipe joint 1 and the second pipe joint 2 may have a protrusion, and the elastic element 3 may be embedded in the groove or hole in the protrusion to restrict the relative movement of the two. Of course, other structures that can install the elastic element 3 to restrict the relative movement of the two may also be used. Those skilled in the art can make settings according to actual needs, and this application does not limit them.

[0048] Understandably, the first direction X is specifically the extension direction of the first pipe connector 1; the first direction X is also the axial direction of the first pipe connector 1; and of course, the first direction X is also the connection direction between the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the first pipe connector 1 is provided with a first groove 11 arranged circumferentially, and the second pipe connector 2 is provided with a second groove 21 arranged at least partially circumferentially. The first groove 11 can communicate with the second groove 21, and the elastic member 3 is at least partially embedded in the first groove 11 and the second groove 21.

[0050] In this embodiment of the application, by providing a first groove 11 on the first pipe connector 1 and a second groove 21 on the second pipe connector 2, the elastic member 3 can be embedded in the first groove 11 and the second groove 21 when the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second pipe connector 2, so as to limit the first pipe connector 1. When the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second pipe connector 2, the elastic member 3 can be embedded in the second groove 21 and expanded by the first pipe connector 1. Then, when the first groove 11 and the second groove 21 are in a communicating position, the elastic member 3 can rebound to be embedded in the first groove 11.

[0051] It needs to be explained that, such as Figure 2 As shown, before the first pipe connector 1 is inserted, the elastic element 3 is inserted into the second groove 21. During the insertion of the first pipe connector 1 into the second channel 20, as the insertion of the first pipe connector 1 gradually deepens, the first pipe connector 1 will abut against the elastic element 3 and move relative to it. The first pipe connector 1 will open the elastic element 3. When the first groove 11 and the second groove 21 of the first pipe connector 1 are connected, the elastic element 3 contracts and is embedded in the first groove 11 and the second groove 21. In this way, the elastic element 3 can limit the first pipe connector 1 in the first direction X, reducing the possibility of the first pipe connector 1 disengaging, thereby improving the connection stability between the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2. When the first pipe connector 1 abuts against the elastic element 3 and moves relative to it, since the surface of the elastic element 3 is provided with a low-friction coating, the surface friction coefficient of the elastic element 3 is reduced, thereby reducing the friction coefficient between the first pipe connector 1 and the elastic element 3, which means reducing the assembly force required when assembling the first pipe connector 1, thereby reducing the assembly difficulty.

[0052] It should be noted that in actual use, when the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second pipe connector 2, the elastic element 3 is embedded in the first groove 11 and the second groove 21, so that the first pipe connector 1 will not detach from the second pipe connector 2; when disassembling the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2, the elastic element 3 is first pulled out from the first groove 11, and then the first pipe connector 1 is pulled out from the second pipe connector 2 to separate the two; this enables quick insertion and removal between the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2.

[0053] Specifically, the first pipe connector 1 is provided with a first channel 10, and the second pipe connector 2 is provided with a second channel 20. The first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second channel 20 to connect the first channel 10 and the second channel 20. The first groove 11 is provided around at least part of the outer periphery of the first pipe connector 1, which is sufficient to allow the elastic member 3 to be inserted into the first groove 11 and the second groove 21 at the same time. The second groove 21 is an open groove, that is, the second groove 21 can communicate with the second channel 20 in the second pipe connector 2. So when the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second channel 20, at least part of the elastic member 3 can enter the second channel 20 through the second groove 21 to abut against the first pipe connector 1 and move relative to it, so that it can be opened by the first pipe connector 1.

[0054] In specific applications, the first pipe connector 1 is a male connector, which can be made of aluminum to reduce weight and processing costs; the second pipe connector 2 is a female connector; and the elastic element 3 is a snap ring.

[0055] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the thickness of the low-friction coating (not shown in the figure) is D, which satisfies: 15μm≤D≤25μm.

[0056] In this embodiment, by setting the thickness D of the low-friction coating within a reasonable range, the possibility that the low-friction coating will be worn during use and thus fail to reduce the surface friction coefficient of the elastic element 3 is reduced; at the same time, the possibility that the low-friction coating will cause the radial dimension of the elastic element 3 to be too large, resulting in interference during assembly is also reduced.

[0057] It should be explained that when the thickness D of the low-friction coating is less than 15 μm, that is, the thickness of the low-friction coating is too thin, as the friction time between the elastic element 3 and the first pipe joint 1 increases, the low-friction coating is easily worn, thus failing to reduce the surface friction coefficient of the elastic element 3, making assembly more difficult; while when the thickness D of the low-friction coating is greater than 25 μm, that is, the thickness of the low-friction coating is too thick, the radial dimension (such as diameter) of the elastic element 3 increases after the low-friction coating is added to the surface of the elastic element 3, which may interfere with the first groove 11 or the second groove 21, thus making assembly impossible.

[0058] In specific applications, the thickness D of the low-friction coating can be set to any value or a range between two arbitrary values, such as 15μm, 16μm, 17μm, 18μm, 19μm, 20μm, 21μm, 22μm, 23μm, 24μm, 25μm.

[0059] It should be noted that in actual processing, the thickness of the low-friction coating can be measured by methods such as metallographic microscopy, electrolysis, chemical dissolution, X-ray fluorescence, eddy current method, and ultrasonic thickness measurement. These measurement methods are all existing technologies and will not be elaborated here.

[0060] In some embodiments of this application, elastic elements 3 with low-friction coatings of different thicknesses are selected for testing. By measuring the assembly force required for different elastic elements 3 during installation, and observing the surface wear of the elastic elements 3 and whether there is interference during installation, the actual impact of low-friction coatings of different thicknesses on assembly is determined.

[0061] The specific testing method is as follows:

[0062] Select the same first pipe connector 1, second pipe connector 2, and multiple elastic elements 3, each with a different thickness of low-friction coating; assemble each elastic element 3 with the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2 respectively, and measure the assembly force required during installation using a dynamic force sensor, and observe whether each elastic element 3 interferes.

[0063] The specific test results are shown in Table 1 below:

[0064] Table 1:

[0065] Comparative Example 1 13 109 no Comparative Example 2 27 yes Example 1 16 35 no Example 2 23 47 no

[0066] The data in Table 1 shows that:

[0067] The test results of Comparative Example 1 show that when the thickness D of the low-friction coating is less than 15 μm, as the friction time between the elastic element 3 and the first pipe joint 1 increases, the low-friction coating is easily worn, which makes it impossible to reduce the surface friction coefficient of the elastic element 3. As a result, a large assembly force is required during installation, resulting in low assembly efficiency.

[0068] The test results of Comparative Example 2 show that when the thickness D of the low-friction coating is greater than 25 μm, the radial dimension of the elastic element 3 increases after the low-friction coating is added to the surface of the elastic element 3. The elastic element 3 interferes with other components, making assembly impossible.

[0069] As can be seen from Examples 1 and 2, when 15μm≤D≤25μm, the thickness D of the low-friction coating is moderate, which can reduce the surface friction coefficient of the elastic element 3, thereby reducing the required assembly force and preventing the elastic element 3 from interfering with other components, thus improving assembly efficiency.

[0070] The results above suggest that, under the same conditions, by setting the thickness D of the low-friction coating on the surface of the elastic element 3 within a reasonable range, the possibility that the low-friction coating will be worn during use and thus fail to reduce the surface friction coefficient of the elastic element 3 is reduced; at the same time, the possibility that the low-friction coating will cause the radial dimension of the elastic element 3 to be too large, resulting in interference during assembly is also reduced.

[0071] like Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the elastic member 3 includes a lifting portion 31 and two snap-fit ​​portions 32. The two snap-fit ​​portions 32 are respectively disposed at both ends of the lifting portion 31 and extend along a direction perpendicular to the first direction X. The outer periphery of the two snap-fit ​​portions 32 is provided with a low-friction coating. The snap-fit ​​portions 32 are deformable. When the first pipe joint 1 is inserted into the second pipe joint 2, the two snap-fit ​​portions 32 can abut against the outer periphery of the first pipe joint 1 and deform so that the snap-fit ​​portions 32 are embedded in the first groove 11.

[0072] In this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​portion 32 can abut against and deform with the outer periphery of the first pipe connector 1, so that the two snap-fit ​​portions 32 can be relatively spread apart and move relative to the first pipe connector 1. When the snap-fit ​​portion 32 reaches the first groove 11, the snap-fit ​​portion 32 retracts to be embedded in the first groove 11, thereby limiting the first pipe connector 1. The low-friction coating is disposed on the outer periphery of the two snap-fit ​​portions 32, which can reduce the area of ​​the low-friction coating, thereby reducing the processing difficulty and processing cost.

[0073] In specific applications, such as Figure 6 As shown, the elastic element 3 includes a lifting portion 31 and locking portions 32 disposed at both ends of the lifting portion 31. The locking portions 32 extend perpendicular to the first direction X, so that when the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second pipe connector 2 along the first direction X, the outer peripheries of the opposite sides of the first pipe connector 1 abut against the two locking portions 32, and as the first pipe connector 1 moves, the elastic element 3 can deform, that is, to spread the two locking portions 32 apart; and when it is necessary to separate the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2, such as Figure 1 As shown, the operator can apply a force away from the second pipe connector 2 to the lifting part 31 (applied in a direction perpendicular to the first direction X) to pull the locking part 32 out of the first groove 11, thereby quickly separating the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2 and improving the convenience of disassembly and assembly.

[0074] It should be noted that in practical applications, there is a certain gap between the lifting part 31 and the outer periphery of the second pipe connector 2, which makes it easier for the operator to apply force to the lifting part 31 to pull out the elastic element 3.

[0075] Understandably, the low-friction coating is applied to the outer periphery of the snap-fit ​​portion 32. Specifically, it can be applied to the entire outer periphery of the snap-fit ​​portion 32 to facilitate processing; or it can be applied to the side surface of the snap-fit ​​portion 32 facing the first pipe connector 1, that is, the side surface facing each of the two snap-fit ​​portions 32, thereby reducing the area of ​​the low-friction coating and thus reducing processing costs.

[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown in the embodiment of this application, each of the two snap-fit ​​portions 32 is provided with a snap hook 33 at the end away from the lifting portion 31. The outer periphery of the second pipe connector 2 is provided with a snap groove 22 at the position corresponding to the snap hook 33. The snap groove 22 communicates with the second groove 21 and extends along the first direction X. The snap hook 33 can snap into the snap groove 22.

[0077] In this embodiment, by providing a hook 33 at the end of the snap-fit ​​portion 32 away from the lifting portion 31, and providing a slot 22 communicating with the second groove 21 on the outer periphery of the second pipe connector 2, the hook 33 can be snapped into the slot 22 when the operator pulls out the elastic member 3, so that the elastic member 3 will not completely detach from the second pipe connector 2, reducing the probability of the elastic member 3 being lost, thereby improving the reliability of the connection structure.

[0078] In specific applications, such as Figure 1 As shown, the hook 33 extends along the first direction X, and the groove 22 extends along the first direction X. Thus, when the elastic member 3 is pulled by the operator, the hook 33 will be engaged in the groove 22. At this time, the engagement part 32 is limited by the groove 22 in the radial direction of the second pipe connector 2, so that the engagement part 32 is disengaged from the first groove 11, and the first pipe connector 1 can be disassembled, which improves convenience.

[0079] It should be noted that a groove 22 is provided at the position corresponding to each hook 33 on the outer periphery of the second pipe connector 2; and since the hook 33 extends along the first direction X, when the locking part 32 is embedded in the second groove 21, the hook 33 abuts against the outer periphery of the second pipe connector 2, so that when the operator pulls out the elastic element 3, the hook 33 can slide along the outer periphery of the second pipe connector 2, thereby increasing the distance between the two locking parts 32, that is, making the two locking parts 32 disengage from the first groove 11, and thus the first pipe connector 1 can be removed.

[0080] Understandably, the groove wall of the slot 22 is a rounded transition surface, which can reduce the friction of the hook 33 when it slides in and out, and reduce the difficulty of operation.

[0081] like Figure 1 and Figure 6As shown, in some embodiments of this application, two hooks 33 extend away from the latching portion 32 in opposite directions, and the slots 22 are respectively disposed on both sides of the second groove 21 along the first direction X.

[0082] In this embodiment, by setting two hooks 33 extending away from the latching part 32 in opposite directions, the two hooks 33 are arranged in opposite directions. This makes it less likely for the elastic member 3 to fall off after it is installed in the second groove 21. Furthermore, since the slots 22 are located on both sides of the second groove 21, the elastic member 3 is the same on both sides along the first direction X during installation. This eliminates the need for operators to distinguish between the front and back during installation, reducing the difficulty of operation for operators.

[0083] In specific applications, such as Figure 1 As shown, the slots 22 are respectively located on both sides of the second groove 21 along the first direction X, so that the slots 22 and the second groove 21 form a "cross shape", so that both sides of the two oppositely arranged hooks 33 can be engaged in the slots 22, thereby improving the convenience of installation.

[0084] It should be noted that, as Figure 6 As shown, the two hooks 33 extend away from the engaging part 32 in opposite directions. Specifically, one hook 33 extends "inward" and the other hook 33 extends "outward", so that the elastic member 3 has a hook 33 on both sides of the first direction X that can engage with the slot 22, thereby facilitating installation.

[0085] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the first pipe connector 1 is provided with a first channel 10, and the second pipe connector 2 is provided with a second channel 20. The first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second channel 20 to connect the first channel 10 and the second channel 20. The outer periphery of the first pipe connector 1 is provided with a protrusion 12, and the inner wall of the second channel 20 is provided with a third groove 201. When the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second channel 20, the protrusion 12 is inserted into the third groove 201 to restrict the circumferential rotation of the first pipe connector 1.

[0086] In this embodiment, by providing a protrusion 12 on the outer periphery of the first pipe connector 1 and a third groove 201 on the inner wall of the second channel 20, the protrusion 12 is inserted into the third groove 201 after the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second channel 20. This prevents the first pipe connector 1 from rotating circumferentially relative to the second pipe connector 2, thereby reducing the possibility of leakage between the first channel 10 and the second channel 20 due to rotation and improving the reliability of the connection.

[0087] It should be noted that the first channel 10 and the second channel 20 can be "straight" channels, or one of them can be "L" shaped channels, thereby enabling channel reversal; of course, they can also be channels of other shapes. Those skilled in the art can set them according to actual needs, and this application does not limit them.

[0088] In practical applications, the first pipe connector 1 is connected to one cooling pipe, and the second pipe connector 2 is connected to another cooling pipe. Through the quick insertion of the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2, the first channel 10 and the second channel 20 can quickly connect the two cooling pipes.

[0089] It needs to be explained that, such as Figure 1 As shown, protrusions 12 are provided on the outer periphery of both opposite sides of the first pipe joint 1. At the corresponding position of each protrusion 12, a third groove 201 is provided on the inner wall of the second channel 20. On the one hand, the protrusions 12 and the third groove 201 can guide the first pipe joint 1 during installation, and on the other hand, they can form a circumferential limit.

[0090] Of course, there can be multiple protrusions 12, with multiple protrusions 12 spaced apart along the circumference of the first pipe joint 1, and a third groove 201 provided on the inner wall of the second channel 20 at the corresponding position of each protrusion 12.

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the first pipe connector 1 includes a body portion 13 and a connecting portion 14. The connecting portion 14 is connected to the end of the body portion 13 facing the second pipe connector 2. The first channel 10 is provided inside the body portion 13 and the connecting portion 14. The first groove 11 and the protrusion 12 are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 14. The connecting portion 14 can be inserted into the second channel 20. The outer periphery of the connecting portion 14 is provided with an abutting section 141. From the second pipe connector 2 to the first pipe connector 1, the cross-sectional area of ​​the abutting section 141 along the direction perpendicular to the first direction X tends to increase. When the connecting portion 14 is inserted into the second channel 20, the abutting section 141 abuts against the two locking portions 32, so that the two locking portions 32 deform in opposite directions.

[0092] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 14 of the first pipe connector 1 is inserted into the second channel 20. The outer periphery of the connecting portion 14 is provided with an abutment section 141, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the abutment section 141 increases from the second pipe connector 2 to the first pipe connector 1. Thus, during the process of inserting the connecting portion 14 into the second channel 20, the abutment section 141 can gradually open the two locking portions 32, thereby making a sufficient distance between the two locking portions 32 to allow the connecting portion 14 to continue to be inserted. When the first groove 11 on the connecting portion 14 reaches the locking portion 32, the two locking portions 32 can retract relative to each other, thereby being embedded in the first groove 11 for limiting.

[0093] In a specific application, the first pipe connector 1 includes a body portion 13 and a connecting portion 14. The body portion 13 is adapted to be connected to a cooling pipe, and the connecting portion 14 can be inserted into a second channel 20, so that the cooling pipe can be connected to another cooling pipe connected to the second pipe connector 2 through the first channel 10 and the second channel 20.

[0094] Understandably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the abutment section 141 tends to increase. Specifically, it can gradually increase so that as the connecting part 14 is inserted, the two snap-fit ​​parts 32 deform in opposite directions to open up the two snap-fit ​​parts 32. Alternatively, it can increase in a stepwise manner. Those skilled in the art can set it according to actual needs, and this application does not limit it.

[0095] Specifically, the abutting section 141 is located on the side of the first groove 11 away from the main body 13, so that after the abutting section 141 opens the two locking parts 32, the two locking parts 32 can be smoothly embedded in the first groove 11.

[0096] In some embodiments of this application, the low-friction coating is a polytetrafluoroethylene coating.

[0097] In this embodiment of the application, by setting the low-friction coating as a polytetrafluoroethylene coating, while ensuring the low coefficient of friction of the snap-fit ​​portion 32 of the elastic member 3, the probability of impurities adhering to the elastic member 3 can be reduced, and it has a certain degree of corrosion resistance, thereby improving the service life of the elastic member 3.

[0098] In specific applications, when the low-friction coating is specifically a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating, it can be processed by the following methods: spraying: spraying a PTFE suspension onto the surface of the elastic component 3 and then sintering and curing it at high temperature to form a PTFE coating; immersion: immersing the elastic component 3 into a PTFE emulsion and then drying and sintering it to form a PTFE coating; electrophoretic deposition: using an electric field to uniformly deposit PTFE particles onto the elastic component 3 to form a PTFE coating.

[0099] In some embodiments of this application, a cooling pipeline is also proposed, including at least two cooling pipes and a connection structure as described in any of the above embodiments, the connection structure being used to connect at least two cooling pipes.

[0100] In this embodiment, the connection structure includes a first pipe connector 1, a second pipe connector 2, and an elastic element 3. The first pipe connector 1 has a first direction X, and the second pipe connector 2 is inserted into the first pipe connector 1 along the first direction X. The elastic element 3 is at least partially embedded in the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2 to restrict the relative movement of the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2. The surface of the elastic element 3 is provided with a low-friction coating. By providing a low-friction coating on the surface of the elastic element 3, the coefficient of friction of the surface of the elastic element 3 is reduced. Thus, during the insertion of the first pipe connector 1 into the second pipe connector 2, the friction between the first pipe connector 1 and the elastic element 3 is reduced, thereby reducing the assembly force required by the operator, reducing the installation difficulty, and improving the assembly efficiency. Moreover, no lubricant is required, ensuring cleanliness during operation.

[0101] In practical applications, one cooling pipe is connected to the side of the first pipe connector 1 away from the second pipe connector 2, and the other cooling pipe is connected to the second pipe connector 2. This allows for quick-release connection and isolation between the two cooling pipes through the first pipe connector 1 and the second pipe connector 2, improving installation efficiency.

[0102] Understandably, cooling piping can specifically refer to piping used in vehicles, industrial equipment, and energy systems to circulate cooling media (such as water, ethylene glycol, refrigerant, etc.), and generally includes the main body of the piping (cooling pipe), quick-connect fittings (connection structure), etc.

[0103] In some embodiments of this application, a thermal management system is also proposed, including the connection structure as described in any of the above embodiments, or the cooling pipeline as described in the above embodiments.

[0104] In this application embodiment, the thermal management system includes the connection structure described in any of the above embodiments, thereby having the beneficial effects of any of the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0105] In some embodiments of this application, a vehicle is also proposed, including a thermal management system as described in the above embodiments.

[0106] In specific applications, the vehicle can be a motor vehicle, such as a passenger car, a truck, or a derivative thereof; it can also be a special vehicle, such as a tractor, an excavator, a fire truck, or an ambulance; it can also be a water vehicle, such as an amphibious vehicle; or it can be a rail transit vehicle, such as a train, a subway, or a tram. Those skilled in the art can configure it according to actual needs, and this application does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0107] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0108] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A connection structure characterized by comprising: include: A first pipe connector (1) having a first direction (X); The second pipe connector (2) is inserted into the first pipe connector (1) along the first direction (X); An elastic element (3) is at least partially embedded in the first pipe joint (1) and the second pipe joint (2) to restrict the relative movement of the first pipe joint (1) and the second pipe joint (2), and the surface of the elastic element (3) is provided with a low-friction coating.

2. The connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that The first pipe joint (1) is provided with a first groove (11) arranged in the circumferential direction, and the second pipe joint (2) is provided with a second groove (21) arranged in at least part of the circumferential direction. The first groove (11) can communicate with the second groove (21), and the elastic member (3) is at least partially embedded in the first groove (11) and the second groove (21).

3. The connection structure according to claim 1, characterized by The thickness of the low-friction coating is D, which satisfies: 15μm≤D≤25μm.

4. The connection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The elastic element (3) includes a lifting part (31) and two snap-fit ​​parts (32). The two snap-fit ​​parts (32) are respectively disposed at both ends of the lifting part (31) and extend in a direction perpendicular to the first direction (X). The outer periphery of the two snap-fit ​​parts (32) is provided with the low-friction coating. The snap-fit ​​parts (32) are deformable. When the first pipe connector (1) is inserted into the second pipe connector (2), both of the snap-fit ​​parts (32) can abut against and deform the outer periphery of the first pipe connector (1) so that the snap-fit ​​parts (32) are embedded in the first groove (11).

5. The connection structure according to claim 4, characterized in that Both of the two snap-fit ​​parts (32) are provided with hooks (33) at the ends away from the lifting part (31). The outer periphery of the second pipe connector (2) is provided with slots (22) at the positions corresponding to the hooks (33). The slots (22) are connected to the second groove (21) and extend along the first direction (X). The hooks (33) can be snapped into the slots (22).

6. The connection structure according to claim 5, characterized in that The two hooks (33) extend away from the latching part (32) in opposite directions, and the slots (22) are respectively located on both sides of the second groove (21) along the first direction (X).

7. The connection structure according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that The first pipe connector (1) is provided with a first channel (10), and the second pipe connector (2) is provided with a second channel (20). The first pipe connector (1) is inserted into the second channel (20) to connect the first channel (10) and the second channel (20). The outer periphery of the first pipe connector (1) is provided with a protrusion (12), and the inner wall of the second channel (20) is provided with a third groove (201). When the first pipe connector (1) is inserted into the second channel (20), the protrusion (12) is inserted into the third groove (201) to restrict the circumferential rotation of the first pipe connector (1).

8. The connection structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first pipe connector (1) includes a body part (13) and a connecting part (14). The connecting part (14) is connected to one end of the body part (13) facing the second pipe connector (2). The first channel (10) is provided in the body part (13) and the connecting part (14). The first groove (11) is provided on the outer periphery of the connecting part (14). The connecting part (14) can be inserted into the second channel (20). The outer periphery of the connecting part (14) is provided with an abutment section (141). From the second pipe joint (2) to the first pipe joint (1), the abutment section (141) has an increasing cross-sectional area perpendicular to the first direction (X). When the connecting part (14) is inserted into the second channel (20), the abutment section (141) abuts against the two snap-fit ​​parts (32) so that the two snap-fit ​​parts (32) deform in opposite directions.

9. The connection structure according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The low-friction coating is a polytetrafluoroethylene coating.

10. A cooling pipeline, characterized in that, include: At least two cooling pipes and a connection structure as described in any one of claims 1-9, the connection structure being used to connect at least two of the cooling pipes.

11. A thermal management system, characterized in that, include: The connection structure as described in any one of claims 1-9, or the cooling pipeline as described in claim 10.

12. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the thermal management system as described in claim 11.

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