Connector assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a connector assembly (100) defining a longitudinal axis (101) and comprising an outer connector member (90), an inner connector member (10) insertable into the outer connector member (90) along a mounting direction (102) parallel to the longitudinal axis (101), and an identification element (30) arranged within the outer connector member (90). The identification element (30) comprises a first body portion (32) located upstream with respect to the mounting direction (102), a second body portion (34) located downstream with respect to the mounting direction (102), and a hinged portion (33) located between the first body portion (32) and the second body portion (34).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to connector assemblies, and more specifically, to connector assemblies for vehicle or energy storage applications. Background Technology

[0002] The information provided in this section is for the purpose of presenting the general background of this disclosure. To the extent described in this section, the work of the currently named inventors and aspects that may not otherwise be described as prior art at the time of filing are neither explicitly nor implicitly considered as prior art to this disclosure.

[0003] Connector assemblies are widely used in many fields, such as vehicles and energy storage. A connector assembly typically consists of an outer connector member (or female connector) and an inner connector member (or male connector). The inner connector member is inserted into the outer connector member to provide a fluid connection between two pipes or lumens or between a pipe or lumen and another component. To identify when the connector assembly has achieved a proper connection, a verification tab is provided within the connector assembly. When the inner connector member is fully inserted into the outer connector member, the verification tab is exposed and thus visible to the user. However, in existing connector assemblies, the verification tab is disposable, inconvenient to install, and may be manually moved to the exposed position due to accidental operation.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a connector assembly having an identification element that is reusable, easy to install, and capable of reliably identifying when the connector assembly is installed in place. Utility Model Content

[0005] This disclosure aims to provide a connector assembly having an identification element that is reusable, easy to install, and capable of reliably identifying when the connector assembly is installed in place.

[0006] In one aspect, a connector assembly is provided, the connector assembly comprising: an outer connector member; an inner connector member insertable into the outer connector member along an installation direction parallel to a longitudinal axis; and an identification element disposed within the outer connector member. The identification element includes a first body portion located upstream relative to the installation direction, a second body portion located downstream relative to the installation direction, and a hinge portion located between the first body portion and the second body portion. The first body portion is pivotable relative to the second body portion about the hinge portion such that, when the inner connector member is not inserted into the outer connector member, the first body portion is tilted relative to the second body portion and the end of the first body portion away from the hinge portion expands radially outward; during insertion of the inner connector member into the outer connector member, the first body portion pivots counterclockwise relative to the second body portion about the hinge portion until the first body portion abuts against the outer surface of the inner connector member.

[0007] In one example, the identification element may further include a first protrusion extending inwardly from the end of the first body portion away from the hinge portion, and a second protrusion extending outwardly from the end of the second body portion away from the hinge portion. The internal connector component may include a first guide element extending along a longitudinal axis and projecting radially outward, the first guide element including a first end surface located upstream relative to the mounting direction and a second end surface located downstream relative to the mounting direction. The external connector component may include an identification element receiving portion. The identification element receiving portion includes a pair of shelves extending along a longitudinal axis, a pair of receiving sidewalls projecting outwardly from the lateral outer ends of the pair of shelves and extending along the longitudinal axis, a receiving top wall extending laterally between the radial outer ends of the pair of receiving sidewalls, and a receiving end wall extending laterally along the longitudinal axis between the downstream ends of the pair of receiving sidewalls relative to the mounting direction. The pair of shelves defines a first guide groove circumferentially aligned with the first guide element. The receiving top wall extends from the external connector component along the longitudinal axis, and the length of the receiving top wall along the longitudinal axis is less than the length of the receiving sidewalls along the longitudinal axis, to form a notch between the downstream edge of the receiving top wall and the receiving end wall. After the identification element is installed onto the external connector assembly, a second protrusion of the identification element extends into the notch. The pair of shelves, the pair of receiving sidewalls, and the receiving top wall together define a receiving space configured to receive a first body portion and a second body portion of the identification element.

[0008] In one example, the identification element may further include a pair of positioning sidewalls projecting inwardly from the lower surface of the second body portion at opposite lateral sides of the second body portion, and a drive end wall projecting inwardly from the end of the second body portion away from the hinge portion and extending transversely along the longitudinal axis between the pair of positioning sidewalls to form a positioning groove between the drive end wall and the pair of positioning sidewalls. The identification element is movable along the longitudinal axis between a first concealed position and a second exposed position. In the first concealed position, the second protrusion contacts the downstream edge of the receiving top wall, the second body portion is concealed below the receiving top wall, and the end of the first body portion away from the hinge portion expands radially outward such that the radially inner end of the first protrusion is located radially outside the radially inner surface of the second body portion, so that the internal connector member can be inserted into the external connector member. In the second exposed position, the second protrusion exits the downstream edge of the receiving top wall, at least a portion of the second body portion is exposed in the notch, and the first body portion conforms to the radially outer surface of the first guide element of the internal connector member, such that the first protrusion engages the first end surface of the first guide element of the internal connector member. During the insertion of the internal connector component into the external connector component, the second end surface of the first guide element of the internal connector component engages with the drive end wall of the identification element and drives the identification element to move from a first hidden position to a second exposed position along the longitudinal axis.

[0009] In one example, an identification mark may be provided on the radial outer surface of the second body portion of the identification element.

[0010] In one example, the identification marker may include a QR code.

[0011] In one example, the connector assembly may further include a locking clamp comprising a clamp base and a pair of locking arms extending from opposite ends of the clamp base and parallel to each other. The outer connector member may include a base engagement portion and a pair of external locking channels located on opposite sides of the base engagement portion and extending through the sidewalls of the outer connector member. The inner connector member may include an insertion portion downstream relative to the mounting direction, a tapered portion extending radially outward from the insertion portion and expanding radially outward upstream relative to the mounting direction, and a pair of internal locking grooves upstream of the tapered portion. When the inner connector member is not inserted into the outer connector member, the locking clamp is capable of inserting into the outer connector member such that the locking arms are positioned within the respective external locking channels. During insertion of the inner connector member into the outer connector member, the tapered portion of the inner connector member contacts the locking arms and causes the locking arms to expand elastically. After the tapered portion of the inner connector member has moved past the locking arms, the locking arms automatically retract and engage within the internal locking grooves of the inner connector member to lock the inner and outer connector members together.

[0012] In one example, the external connector member may include a first receiving recess located at an end of the external locking channel remote from the base engagement, a second platform located at a greater radial distance and closer to the base engagement than the first receiving recess, and a transition portion between the first receiving recess and the second platform. The locking clamp may also include a pair of stop protrusions and a pair of actuating portions. The stop protrusions extend in opposite directions along a longitudinal axis from the ends of the locking arms remote from the clamp base, and the actuating portions extend from opposite ends of the clamp base in the opposite direction to the locking arms and are configured to facilitate a user's grip to pull the locking clamp from a first mounting position to a second unlocked position. In the first mounting position, the stop protrusions are located in the first receiving recess, and the locking arms engage within the external locking channel of the external connector member and are at least partially located in the central opening of the external connector member. In the second unlocked position, the stop protrusions are located on the second platform, and the locking arms are fully disengaged from the central opening of the external connector member to unlock the internal connector member from the external connector member.

[0013] In one example, the side of the control unit away from the base of the clamp may be provided with a friction-increasing surface.

[0014] In one example, the connector assembly may further include a seal disposed radially between the insertion portion of the inner connector member and the outer connector member, and configured to seal the insertion portion of the inner connector member against the outer connector member.

[0015] In one example, the internal connector component may include a first guide element and a second guide element, which extend along a longitudinal axis and project radially outward, and are diametrically opposed to each other. The external connector component may include a first guide groove and a second guide groove, which extend along a longitudinal axis and are circumferentially aligned with the first guide element and the second guide element, respectively.

[0016] By means of a first body part and a second body part that can pivot relative to each other, the identification element can be repeatedly moved between a first hidden position and a second exposed position, thus allowing for reuse.

[0017] With the help of the first and second protrusions, if the identification element is accidentally moved manually, the internal connector component will not be able to be inserted into the external connector component. This prevents misoperation and ensures reliable identification of when the connector assembly is installed.

[0018] Thanks to the structure of the identification element, it can be easily inserted into the external connector component along the pair of shelves, which provides simple installation.

[0019] With the help of the locking clamp's control unit, the user can easily pull the locking clamp from the first installation position to the second unlock position.

[0020] Other areas of application of this disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, claims, and drawings. The detailed description and specific examples are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0021] This disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic exploded view of an exemplary connector assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of the internal connector component of an exemplary connector assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of the external connector component of an exemplary connector assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of the outer connector component of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another angle.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the external connector component of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view of a locking clamp for an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of the locking clamp of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another angle.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic top perspective view of the identification element of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic bottom perspective view of the identification element of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector component is not fully inserted into the outer connector component, the identification element is in a first hidden position, and the locking clamp is in a first mounting position.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector component is not fully inserted into the outer connector component, the identification element is in a first hidden position, and the locking clamp is in a first installed position.

[0033] Figure 12 This is a schematic front view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector component is not fully inserted into the outer connector component, the identification element is in a first hidden position, and the locking clamp is in a first installed position.

[0034] Figure 13 This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector component is not yet fully inserted into the outer connector component, and the identification element is in a first hidden position.

[0035] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein an internal connector component is installed in place, an identification element is in a second exposed position, and a locking clamp is in a first installed position.

[0036] Figure 15 This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the internal connector component is installed in place and the identification element is in a second exposed position.

[0037] Figure 16 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the locking clamp is in a second unlocked position, the inner connector component is removed from the outer connector component, and the identification element is in a first hidden position.

[0038] This disclosure is readily adaptable to various modifications and alternatives, some representative embodiments of which are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the novel aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the specific forms shown in the foregoing drawings. Rather, this disclosure will cover all modifications, equivalents, combinations, sub-combinations, arrangements, groupings, and alternatives that fall within the scope of this disclosure, for example, as covered by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its use. This disclosure is readily embodied in many forms. Representative examples of this disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein; it is to be understood that these embodiments are provided as illustrative of the principles of the disclosure and not as limitations on the broad aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, the drawings are generally schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale. Some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of particular components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but are merely intended to teach those skilled in the art a representative basis for using this disclosure in various ways. For this purpose, elements and limitations described, for example, in the abstract, background, utility model description, description of drawings, and detailed description sections but not expressly set forth in the claims, should not be incorporated, individually or jointly, by implication, inference, or otherwise, into the claims.

[0040] Certain terms may be used for reference only in the following description and are therefore not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “above” and “below” refer to orientations in the referenced figures. Terms such as “front,” “rear,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “rear,” “side,” “up,” “down,” “top,” and “bottom” describe the orientation and / or position of parts of a component or element within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, as will become clear from the text describing the component or element in question and the associated figures.

[0041] Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used to describe individual components. These terms are used to describe the accompanying drawings and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0042] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of…” as used in this disclosure refers to “one or more” of the desired choices. As an example, the phrase “at least one of…” as used in this disclosure refers to “only one single choice” or “both of two choices” if the number of choices is two. As another example, the phrase “at least one of…” as used in this disclosure refers to “only one single choice” or “any combination equal to or more than two choices” if the number of choices is equal to or more than three. Furthermore, the term “and / or” as used in this disclosure refers to “either one or both.” For example, the phrase “at least one of A and B” includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C. In other words, in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of A and B” does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B”.

[0043] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used throughout several views to denote the same features. Figure 1This is a schematic exploded view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The connector assembly 100 defines a longitudinal axis 101 and a mounting direction 102 parallel to the longitudinal axis 101. As used herein, the term "axial" refers to a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 101, and the term "circumferential" refers to a circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis 101. Furthermore, the terms "inward" and "outward" refer to directions relative to the longitudinal axis 101. According to one example, the connector assembly 100 includes an inner connector member 10, an outer connector member 90, an identification element 30, a locking clamp 40, a seal 60, and a seal retention element 50, wherein the inner connector member 10 is insertable into the outer connector member 90 along a mounting direction 102 parallel to the longitudinal axis 101. As those skilled in the art will understand, the connector assembly 100 may exclude the seal retention element 50 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As those skilled in the art will understand, the connector assembly 100 may exclude the seal 60 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the seal 60 and the seal retaining element 50 may have any suitable construction without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In one example, the connector assembly 100 may be a VDA connector assembly. As used herein, the term "VDA" is an abbreviation for "Verband Der Automobilindustrie" (Automotive Industry Association). VDA connector assemblies are commonly used in vehicles to facilitate the connection of pipes in vehicle systems for fluid communication within vehicle systems, typically in heating and cooling piping systems. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the connector assembly 100 may be used in any other suitable application, such as a liquid cooling system in energy storage, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of an internal connector member 10 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one example, the internal connector member 10 defines an internal connector channel 15 extending along a longitudinal axis 101 and may include an insertion portion 11 located downstream relative to a mounting direction 102, a tapered portion 12 extending radially outward from the insertion portion 11 and expanding upstream relative to the mounting direction 102, and a pair of internal locking grooves 13 upstream of the tapered portion 12. A seal 60 is radially disposed between the insertion portion 11 of the internal connector member 10 and an external connector member 90 and configured to seal the insertion portion 11 of the internal connector member 10 against the external connector member 90.

[0045] In one example, the internal connector component 10 may further include a first guide element 14 and a second guide element 19, which extend along the longitudinal axis 101 and project radially outward, and are diametrically opposed to each other. As those skilled in the art will understand, the internal connector component 10 may include only the first guide element 14, or may include an optional third guide element or more guide elements, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The first guide element 14 includes a first end surface 17 located upstream of the mounting direction 102 and a second end surface 18 located downstream of the mounting direction 102.

[0046] In one example, the internal connector component 10 may further include an internal connector mounting end 16 located upstream relative to the mounting direction 102. The internal connector mounting end 16 is configured to connect to a conduit or lumen. The internal connector mounting end 16 may include barbs on its outer surface to facilitate connection to the conduit or lumen.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of the outer connector component 90 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of the outer connector member 90 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another angle. Figure 5 This is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of an outer connector member 90 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one example, the outer connector member 90 defines a central opening 91 extending along a longitudinal axis 101 and may include an outer connector mounting end 97 located downstream relative to a mounting direction 102. The outer connector mounting end 97 is configured to connect to a conduit or lumen. The outer connector mounting end 97 may include barbs on its outer surface to facilitate connection to the conduit or lumen.

[0048] In one example, the external connector component 90 may further include a first guide groove 81 and a second guide groove 99, which extend along the longitudinal axis 101 and are circumferentially aligned with the first guide element 14 and the second guide element 19, respectively.

[0049] In one example, the external connector member 90 may further include a base engagement 98, a pair of external locking channels 93, a first receiving recess 94 located at the end of the external locking channel 93 remote from the base engagement 98, a second platform 96 located at a greater radial distance than the first receiving recess 94 and closer to the base engagement 98, and a transition portion 95 between the first receiving recess 94 and the second platform 96. As used herein, the term "radial distance" refers to the distance relative to a horizontal plane along the longitudinal axis 101. The transition portion 95 is configured to facilitate the movement of the locking clamp 40 from the first receiving recess 94 to the second platform 96. In one example, the external connector member 90 may further include the pair of external locking channels 93 located on opposite sides of the base engagement 98 and extending through the sidewalls of the external connector member 90.

[0050] In one example, the external connector component 90 may further include an identification element receiving portion 92. The identification element receiving portion 92 includes a pair of shelves 86 extending along a longitudinal axis 101, a pair of receiving sidewalls 88 projecting outward from the lateral outer ends of the pair of shelves 86 and extending along the longitudinal axis 101, a receiving top wall 89 extending laterally between the radial outer ends of the pair of receiving sidewalls 88, and a receiving end wall 85 extending laterally along the longitudinal axis 101 between the downstream ends of the pair of receiving sidewalls 88 relative to the mounting direction 102. The pair of shelves 86 defines a first guide groove 81 circumferentially aligned with the first guide element 14. The receiving top wall 89 extends from the external connector component 90 along the longitudinal axis 101, and the length of the receiving top wall 89 along the longitudinal axis 101 is less than the length of the receiving sidewalls 88 along the longitudinal axis 101, to form a notch 84 between the downstream edge 83 of the receiving top wall 89 and the receiving end wall 85. The pair of shelves 86, the pair of receiving sidewalls 88, and the receiving top wall 89 together define a receiving space 87, which is configured to receive a first body portion 32 and a second body portion 34 of the identification element 30.

[0051] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view of the locking clamp 40 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of the locking clamp 40 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from another angle. In one example, the locking clamp 40 may include a clamp base 41 and a pair of locking arms 42 extending from opposite ends of the clamp base 41 and parallel to each other.

[0052] When the internal connector member 10 is not inserted into the external connector member 90, the locking clamp 40 can be inserted into the external connector member 90, such that the locking arm 42 is located within the corresponding external locking channel 93. During the insertion of the internal connector member 10 into the external connector member 90, the tapered portion 12 of the internal connector member 10 contacts the locking arm 42 and causes the locking arm 42 to expand elastically. After the tapered portion 12 of the internal connector member 10 moves past the locking arm 42, the locking arm 42 automatically retracts and engages within the internal locking groove 13 of the internal connector member 10 to lock the internal connector member 10 and the external connector member 90 together.

[0053] In one example, the locking clamp 40 may further include a pair of stop protrusions 43 and a pair of operating portions 44. In one example, the pair of stop protrusions 43 may extend in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis 101 from the end of the locking arm 42 away from the clamp base 41, such as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in the diagram. In another example, the pair of stop protrusions 43 can extend from the end of the locking arm 42 away from the clamp base 41 in the same direction along the longitudinal axis 101, as shown in the diagram. Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. The pair of control parts 44 extend from opposite ends of the clamp base 41 in the direction opposite to the locking arm 42 and are configured to facilitate the user's grip to pull the locking clamp 40 from the first mounting position to the second unlocking position.

[0054] In the first mounting position, the stop protrusion 43 is located in the first receiving recess 94, and the locking arm 42 engages within the external locking channel 93 of the external connector member 90 and is at least partially located in the central opening 91 of the external connector member 90. In the second unlocking position, the stop protrusion 43 is located on the second platform 96, and the locking arm 42 is fully removed from the central opening 91 of the external connector member 90 to unlock the internal connector member 10 from the external connector member 90.

[0055] In one example, the side of the control unit 44 away from the clamp base 41 may be provided with a friction-enhancing surface 46. In one example, the friction-enhancing surface 46 may include an embossed or textured structure. As those skilled in the art will understand, the friction-enhancing surface 46 may take any other suitable structure without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0056] In one example, the clamp base 41 is generally arc-shaped and includes a flat engagement portion 45 in the middle of the clamp base 41. The base engagement portion 98 of the external connector member 90 includes a corresponding flat outer surface. The flat engagement portion 45 of the clamp base 41 and the corresponding flat outer surface of the base engagement portion 98 of the external connector member 90 mate to facilitate locking the clamp 40 stably in the first mounting position.

[0057] In one example, the locking clamp 40 is made of plastic to reduce the force required to install the locking clamp 40.

[0058] With the help of the control part 44 of the locking clamp 40, the user can easily pull the locking clamp 40 from the first installation position to the second unlock position.

[0059] By means of the flat engagement portion 45 of the clamp base 41 and the corresponding flat outer surface of the base engagement portion 98 of the external connector member 90, the locking clamp 40 can be stably held in the first mounting position.

[0060] Figure 8 This is a schematic top perspective view of the identification element 30 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a schematic bottom perspective view of an identification element 30 of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one example, the identification element 30 may include a first body portion 32 located upstream of the mounting direction 102, a second body portion 34 located downstream of the mounting direction 102, and a hinge portion 33 located between the first body portion 32 and the second body portion 34. The first body portion 32 is pivotable relative to the second body portion 34 about the hinge portion 33 such that when the inner connector member 10 is not inserted into the outer connector member 90, the first body portion 32 is tilted relative to the second body portion 34 and the end of the first body portion 32 away from the hinge portion 33 is radially outwardly expanded; during the insertion of the inner connector member 10 into the outer connector member 90, the first body portion 32 pivots counterclockwise relative to the second body portion 34 about the hinge portion 33 until the first body portion 32 is in contact with the outer surface of the inner connector member 10.

[0061] In one example, the identification element 30 may further include a first protrusion 36 extending inwardly from the end of the first body portion 32 away from the hinge portion 33, and a second protrusion 35 extending outwardly from the end of the second body portion 34 away from the hinge portion 33. After the identification element 30 is mounted to the external connector member 90, the second protrusion 35 of the identification element 30 protrudes into the notch 84.

[0062] In one example, the identification element 30 further includes a pair of positioning sidewalls 38 projecting inwardly from the lower surface of the second body portion 34 at opposite lateral sides of the second body portion 34, and a drive end wall 37 projecting inwardly from the end of the second body portion 34 away from the hinge portion 33 and extending transversely to the longitudinal axis 101 between the pair of positioning sidewalls 38, to form a positioning groove 39 between the drive end wall 37 and the pair of positioning sidewalls 38. The identification element 30 is movable along the longitudinal axis 101 between a first concealed position and a second exposed position.

[0063] In the first concealed position, the second protrusion 35 contacts the downstream edge 83 of the receiving top wall 89, the second body portion 34 is concealed beneath the receiving top wall 89, and the end of the first body portion 32 away from the hinge portion 33 expands radially outward such that the radially inner end of the first protrusion 36 is located radially outside the radially inner surface of the second body portion 34, so that the inner connector member 10 can be inserted into the outer connector member 90. In the second exposed position, the second protrusion 35 is removed from the downstream edge 83 of the receiving top wall 89, at least a portion of the second body portion 34 is exposed in the notch 84, and the first body portion 32 conforms to the radially outer surface of the first guide element 14 of the inner connector member 10, such that the first protrusion 36 engages the first end surface 17 of the first guide element 14 of the inner connector member 10.

[0064] In one example, an identification mark is provided on the radially outer surface 31 of the second body portion 34 of the identification element 30. In one example, the identification mark includes a QR code. As those skilled in the art will understand, the identification mark may include any other form of indicator, such as barcodes, numbers, letters, colors, images, patterns, etc., without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The identification mark is a visible verification mark to ensure that the internal connector component 10 is installed in place.

[0065] During the insertion of the internal connector component 10 into the external connector component 90, the second end surface 18 of the first guide element 14 of the internal connector component 10 engages with the drive end wall 37 of the identification element 30 and drives the identification element 30 from a first hidden position to a second exposed position along the longitudinal axis 101.

[0066] In one example, the positioning sidewall 38 extends along the longitudinal axis 101 from the end of the second body portion 34 near the hinge portion 33 to the end of the second body portion 34 away from the hinge portion 33. As those skilled in the art will understand, the positioning sidewall 38 can extend from any position between the end of the second body portion 34 near the hinge portion 33 and the end of the second body portion 34 away from the hinge portion 33 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will understand, although... Figure 9 The positioning sidewall 38 is shown to extend continuously, but the positioning sidewall 38 may be partially interrupted without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0067] By means of a first body portion 32 and a second body portion 34 that can pivot relative to each other, the identification element 30 can be repeatedly moved between a first hidden position and a second exposed position, thereby being reusable.

[0068] With the help of the first protrusion 36 and the second protrusion 35, if the identification element 30 is accidentally moved manually, the first protrusion 36 will prevent the internal connector component 10 from being inserted into the external connector component 90. This prevents misoperation and ensures reliable identification of when the connector assembly 100 is installed.

[0069] Thanks to the structure of the identification element 30, the identification element 30 can be easily inserted into the external connector member 90 along the pair of shelves 86, which provides simple installation.

[0070] Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector member 10 is not fully inserted into the outer connector member 90, the identification element 30 is in a first hidden position, and the locking clamp 40 is in a first mounting position.

[0071] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector member 10 is not fully inserted into the outer connector member 90, the identification element 30 is in a first hidden position, and the locking clamp 40 is in a first installed position. Figure 12 This is a schematic front view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector member 10 is not fully inserted into the outer connector member 90, the identification element 30 is in a first hidden position, and the locking clamp 40 is in a first installed position. Figure 13 This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the inner connector member 10 is not fully inserted into the outer connector member 90, and the identification element 30 is in a first hidden position.

[0072] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the internal connector component 10 is installed, the identification element 30 is in a second exposed position, and the locking clamp 40 is in a first installed position. Figure 15 This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the internal connector component 10 is installed in place and the identification element 30 is in a second exposed position.

[0073] Figure 16 This is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary connector assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the locking clamp 40 is in a second unlocked position, the inner connector member 10 is removed from the outer connector member 90, and the identification element 30 is in a first hidden position.

[0074] The assembly and disassembly of connector assembly 100 are now described. When installing connector assembly 100, first insert the stop protrusion 43 of locking clamp 40 into the first receiving recess 94 of outer connector member 90, and engage the locking arm 42 within the external locking channel 93 of outer connector member 90, so that locking clamp 40 is in a first installation position. Place seal 60 and optional seal retention element 50 in appropriate positions within outer connector member 90. If it is the first installation and identification element 30 is not yet located within outer connector member 90, insert identification element 30 into identification element receiving portion 92 of outer connector member 90, such that second protrusion 35 of identification element 30 enters and pops out of notch 84 of identification element receiving portion 92, and contacts the downstream edge 83 of receiving top wall 89, at which point identification element 30 is in a first concealed position. If the identification element 30 is already located within the external connector component 90, the second protrusion 35 of the identification element 30 is moved in the opposite direction to the mounting direction 102, such that the second protrusion 35 contacts the downstream edge 83 of the receiving top wall 89. At this time, the identification element 30 is in the first hidden position, as shown below. Figure 13 As shown in the diagram. The inner connector component 10 is inserted into the outer connector component 90 along the mounting direction 102.

[0075] During insertion, the second end surface 18 of the first guide element 14 of the internal connector member 10 engages with the drive end wall 37 of the identification element 30 and drives the identification element 30 along the mounting direction 102. The tapered portion 12 of the internal connector member 10 contacts the locking arm 42, causing the locking arm 42 to expand elastically. After the tapered portion 12 of the internal connector member 10 moves past the locking arm 42, the locking arm 42 automatically retracts and engages within the internal locking groove 13 of the internal connector member 10, as... Figure 14 As shown in the diagram. At this point, the connector assembly 100 is installed in place, and the identification element 30 is in the second exposed position.

[0076] When the connector assembly 100 needs to be disassembled, the user uses the control unit 44 to pull the stop protrusion 43 of the locking clamp 40 from the first receiving recess 94 through the transition part 95 back onto the second platform 96, so that the locking clamp 40 is in the second unlocked position. Figure 16 As shown in the diagram. At this time, the inner connector component 10 can be moved out of the outer connector component 90 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction 102.

[0077] The foregoing description is illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or use. The broad teachings of this disclosure can be implemented in various forms. Therefore, while this disclosure includes specific examples, its true scope should not be so limited, as other modifications will become apparent upon examination of the drawings, specification, and appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be varied as needed and / or desired, provided that such variations do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, directly connected or contacting components may have intermediate structures arranged between them, provided that such variations do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages are not necessarily present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique compared to the prior art, individually or in combination with other features, should also be considered as the applicant's separate description of further inventions, including structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features. It should be understood that one or more steps within the method may be performed in different orders (or simultaneously) without altering the principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, while each of the embodiments described above is described as having certain features, any one or more of those features described with reference to any embodiment of this disclosure may be implemented in and / or combined with features of any of other embodiments, even if such combinations are not explicitly described. In other words, the described embodiments are not mutually exclusive, and substitutions of one or more embodiments for each other remain within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A connector assembly defining a longitudinal axis and comprising: External connector components; An internal connector component that can be inserted into an external connector component along an installation direction parallel to the longitudinal axis; as well as Identification elements are located within the external connector component; The identification element is characterized in that it includes a first body portion located upstream relative to the installation direction, a second body portion located downstream relative to the installation direction, and a hinge portion located between the first body portion and the second body portion; The first body portion is pivotable relative to the second body portion about the hinge portion, such that when the inner connector member is not inserted into the outer connector member, the first body portion is tilted relative to the second body portion and the end of the first body portion away from the hinge portion expands radially outward. During the insertion of the inner connector component into the outer connector component, the first body portion pivots counterclockwise relative to the second body portion about the hinge portion until the first body portion is in contact with the outer surface of the inner connector component.

2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The identification element further includes a first protrusion extending inward from the end of the first body portion away from the hinge portion, and a second protrusion extending outward from the end of the second body portion away from the hinge portion. The internal connector component includes a first guide element that extends along a longitudinal axis and projects radially outward, the first guide element including a first end surface located upstream relative to the mounting direction and a second end surface located downstream relative to the mounting direction; The external connector component includes an identification element receiving portion, which includes a pair of shelves extending along a longitudinal axis, a pair of receiving sidewalls projecting outward from the lateral outer ends of the pair of shelves and extending along the longitudinal axis, a receiving top wall extending laterally between the radial outer ends of the pair of receiving sidewalls, and a receiving end wall extending laterally along the longitudinal axis between the downstream ends of the pair of receiving sidewalls relative to the mounting direction. The pair of shelves defines a first guide groove circumferentially aligned with the first guide element. The receiving top wall extends from the external connector component along the longitudinal axis and the length of the receiving top wall along the longitudinal axis is less than the length of the receiving sidewalls along the longitudinal axis, so as to form a notch between the downstream edge of the receiving top wall and the receiving end wall. After the identification element is installed onto the external connector component, the second protrusion of the identification element protrudes into the notch; The pair of shelves, the pair of receiving sidewalls, and the receiving top wall together define a receiving space, which is configured to receive a first body portion and a second body portion of the identification element.

3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The identification element further includes a pair of positioning sidewalls that protrude inward from the lower surface of the second body portion at opposite lateral sides of the second body portion, and a drive end wall that protrudes inward from the end of the second body portion away from the hinge portion and extends transversely to the longitudinal axis between the pair of positioning sidewalls, so as to form a positioning groove between the drive end wall and the pair of positioning sidewalls. The identification element is movable along the longitudinal axis between a first hidden position and a second exposed position; In the first concealed position, the second protrusion contacts the downstream edge of the receiving top wall, the second body portion is concealed below the receiving top wall, and the end of the first body portion away from the hinge portion expands radially outward such that the radially inner end of the first protrusion is located radially outside the radially inner surface of the second body portion, so that the internal connector member can be inserted into the external connector member. In the second exposed position, the second protrusion is away from the downstream edge of the receiving top wall, at least a portion of the second body portion is exposed in the notch, and the first body portion is abutted against the radial outer surface of the first guide element of the internal connector member, such that the first protrusion engages the first end surface of the first guide element of the internal connector member. as well as During the insertion of the internal connector component into the external connector component, the second end surface of the first guide element of the internal connector component engages with the drive end wall of the identification element and drives the identification element to move from a first hidden position to a second exposed position along the longitudinal axis.

4. The connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, An identification mark is provided on the radial outer surface of the second body portion of the identification element.

5. The connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The identification marker includes a QR code.

6. The connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector assembly also includes a locking clamp, which includes a clamp base and a pair of locking arms that extend from opposite ends of the clamp base and are parallel to each other. The external connector component includes a base engagement portion and a pair of external locking channels located on opposite sides of the base engagement portion and extending through the sidewall of the external connector component; The internal connector component includes an insertion portion located downstream relative to the mounting direction, a tapered portion extending radially outward from the insertion portion and expanding radially outward upstream relative to the mounting direction, and a pair of internal locking grooves upstream of the tapered portion. When the internal connector component is not inserted into the external connector component, the locking clamp can be inserted into the external connector component, so that the locking arm is located in the corresponding external locking channel; During the insertion of the inner connector component into the outer connector component, the tapered portion of the inner connector component contacts the locking arm and causes the locking arm to expand elastically. After the tapered portion of the inner connector component moves past the locking arm, the locking arm automatically retracts and engages in the inner locking groove of the inner connector component to lock the inner connector component and the outer connector component together.

7. The connector assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The external connector component includes a first receiving recess located at the end of the external locking channel away from the base engagement portion, a second platform located at a greater radial distance and closer to the base engagement portion than the first receiving recess, and a transition portion between the first receiving recess and the second platform. The locking clamp also includes a pair of stop protrusions and a pair of operating parts. The pair of stop protrusions extend from the ends of the locking arms away from the base of the clamp in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis. The pair of operating parts extend from the opposite ends of the base of the clamp in the opposite direction to the locking arms and are configured to facilitate the user's grip to pull the locking clamp from the first mounting position to the second unlocking position. In the first mounting position, the stop protrusion is located in the first receiving recess, and the locking arm engages within the external locking channel of the external connector member and is at least partially located in the central opening of the external connector member; as well as In the second unlocked position, the stop protrusion is located on the second platform, and the locking arm is fully removed from the central opening of the outer connector member in order to unlock the inner connector member from the outer connector member.

8. The connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The side of the control unit away from the base of the clamp is provided with a friction-increasing surface.

9. The connector assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The connector assembly further includes a seal disposed radially between the insertion portion of the inner connector member and the outer connector member, and configured to seal the insertion portion of the inner connector member against the outer connector member.

10. The connector assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The internal connector component includes a first guide element and a second guide element, which extend along a longitudinal axis and project radially outward, and are diametrically opposite each other. The external connector component includes a first guide groove and a second guide groove, which extend along the longitudinal axis and are respectively circumferentially aligned with the first guide element and the second guide element.

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