Fluid Line Quick Connector with Data Matrix

Abstract

The fluid line quick connector serves to join fluid lines together in vehicle applications, as well as industrial manufacturing, aircraft, marine, and agricultural applications, among other possibilities. The fluid line quick connector has a retainer assembly having a primary latch and a secondary latch. A data matrix is ​​provided, which may be in the form of, by way of example, a quick response (QR) code. In use, when the secondary latch is in an open position, the data matrix is ​​partially or more obscured. When the secondary latch is in a closed position, there is no partial or more obscuration and the data matrix can be properly read.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 144,721, having a filing date of February 2, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

[0002] Technical Field FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This disclosure relates generally to quick connectors used to join fluid lines together and methods for verifying that a proper connection has been made with the quick connectors. [Background technology]

[0003] background Quick connectors are commonly used in vehicle applications to join fluid lines to one another or to join fluid lines with component lines. The quick connector establishes a liquid-tight connection. One example is fuel fluid lines in an automobile, and another example is cooling fluid lines in an electric or hybrid automobile. Additionally, other examples exist in automotive applications as well as non-automotive applications such as industrial manufacturing, aerospace, marine, and agricultural applications, to name a few. For initial assembly and inspection and subsequent inspection, visual means may be employed in the quick connector to verify that the proper connection has been made. These means typically require physical interaction and viewing by the assembler, inspector, and / or servicer to verify establishment of the intended connection. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] overview In one embodiment, the fluid line quick connector can include a housing, a primary latch, a secondary latch, and a data matrix. The housing has a main passageway and a penetration. The primary latch can be inserted through the penetration. The secondary latch can be disposed proximate to the primary latch. The secondary latch has an open position and a closed position. When the secondary latch is in the open position, the data matrix is ​​partially or more obscured. When the secondary latch is in the closed position, there is no partial or more obscuration.

[0005] In another embodiment, a fluid line quick connector can include a housing, a retainer assembly, and one or more datum matrices. The housing has a main passageway and an exterior surface. The retainer assembly is supported by the housing. The retainer assembly includes a primary latch and a secondary latch. The secondary latch has an open position relative to the primary latch. The secondary latch has a closed position relative to the primary latch. The retainer assembly has one or more arms. The arms have a barrier wall. The datum matrix is ​​on an exterior surface of the housing. The datum matrix is ​​partially or more obscured by the barrier wall when the secondary latch is in the open position. When the secondary latch is in the closed position, the barrier wall moves and the partial or more obscuration is removed with the movement of the barrier wall.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, the fluid line quick connector can include a housing, a retainer assembly, a slide, and a data matrix. The housing has a main passageway. The retainer assembly is supported by the housing. The retainer assembly includes a primary latch and a secondary latch. The secondary latch has an open position relative to the primary latch. The secondary latch has a closed position relative to the primary latch. The slide has a first position and has a second position. The slide is urged to move from the first position to the second position via impaction by the retainer assembly when the secondary latch is in the closed position. The data matrix resides on the slide. The data matrix is ​​partially or more obscured when the slide is in the first position. The data matrix can be read when the slide is in the second position.

[0007] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of a fluid line quick connector with the secondary latch shown in the open position. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the quick connector with the secondary latch shown in the closed position. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the quick connector with the secondary latch in the open position. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the quick connector with the secondary latch in the closed position. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a retainer assembly of the quick connector. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is another perspective view of the retainer assembly; [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fluid line quick connector with the secondary latch shown in the closed position. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the quick connector of FIG. [Figure 9]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the quick connector of FIG. 7 with the secondary latch in a closed position. [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a retainer assembly of the quick connector of FIG. 7 with the secondary latch in an open position. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the retainer assembly of FIG. 10 with the secondary latch in a closed position. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a retainer assembly. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a close-up view of an embodiment of a barrier wall of the retainer assembly. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a partial view of one embodiment of a housing. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view showing the interaction of the barrier wall and the housing of FIGS. 13 and 14. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Detailed Description An embodiment of a fluid line quick connector (hereafter, quick connector) having a data matrix is ​​detailed in this description and illustrated in the figures. The quick connector and its data matrix enable the determination of proper connection or lack thereof via a device located away from the immediate fastening site of the quick connector, which does not necessarily have to physically contact the fastening site for the determination. Thus, detection and verification of the connection can be performed remotely, possibly in addition to other means of physical and visual verification. With its remote verification capability, the quick connector is equipped for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and subsequent service techniques by at least partially automated robots. Furthermore, the detection and verification capabilities facilitated by the data matrix are repeatable and can be performed at initial assembly and subsequent disassembly and reassembly. Although this description presents the quick connector in the context of an automotive fluid line, such as a fuel fluid line or a coolant fluid line, the quick connector has a broader application and is suitable for use in industrial manufacturing fluid lines, aircraft fluid lines, marine fluid lines, agricultural fluid lines, and the like. Additionally, unless otherwise noted, the terms radial, axial, and circumferential, and grammatical variations thereof, refer to directions that relate to the generally circular and cylindrical shapes of the quick connector and its components as illustrated in the figures.

[0010] A quick connector can have various designs, structures, and components in different embodiments depending, in some cases, on the application in which the quick connector is to be installed, the associated spigot, hose, and / or tube, and the desired attributes of the connection and fitting to be established, among other possible factors. FIGS. 1-6 show a first embodiment of a fluid line quick connector 10. The quick connector 10 has a quick connection feature for easy connection and disconnection action with a spigot, which can be connected, for example, with a rubber hose or a plastic tube. The spigot is a separate and distinct connection piece that is inserted into a first open end 12 of the quick connector 10. In this sense, the quick connector 10 is a female counterpart and the spigot is a male counterpart. The spigot typically has a flange that projects radially outward from its exterior for interaction with the quick connector 10, but can also have some other end formation. The flange or end formation is usually axially spaced from the terminal end of the spigot. The spigot can be part of a larger component of the associated automobile. The quick connector 10 is shown having an in-line configuration, but in other embodiments may have an elbow or L-shaped configuration, or other configurations.

[0011] In a first embodiment, the quick connector 10 includes a housing 14, a retainer assembly 16, and a data matrix 18, and further, in other embodiments, the quick connector 10 can have more, less, and / or different components. The housing 14 serves as the body of the quick connector 10 and is typically constructed from a plastic material. The housing 14 has an exterior surface 20. A main passage 22 is defined completely through the housing 14 from end to end to allow for fluid flow through the quick connector 10 during use. The main passage 22 axially passes through the housing 14 between a first open end 12 and an opposing second open end 13. To form a seal and to facilitate fixation between the quick connector 10 and the spigot when they are brought together, one or more O-rings, spacers, and / or bushings may be disposed within the main passage 22, as will be understood by those skilled in the art and as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 9 and indicated with OR, S, B. Additionally, a penetration 24 is defined entirely through the housing 14 on one side. The penetration 24 is for mounting the retainer assembly 16 within the housing 14. The retainer assembly 16 is received within the penetration 26. The penetration 24 is surrounded on all sides by the housing walls, is disposed adjacent the first open end 12, and extends radially through the entire housing 14. When the retainer assembly 16 is not inserted, the penetration 24 opens into the main passageway 22. Adjacent to the penetration 24, a groove 26 (FIG. 8) is present within the housing 14 and is defined in the interior wall thereof for receiving the insertion of the retainer assembly 16.

[0012] The retainer assembly 16 continues to hold the spigot when the spigot is inserted into the quick connector 10 and the retainer assembly 16 is closed, preventing the spigot from accidentally and unintentionally exiting the quick connector 10. The retainer assembly 16 also serves to partially or more conceal the data matrix 18 when the retainer assembly 16 is open to prevent it from being read out completely, and to reveal the data matrix 18 for proper reading when the retainer assembly 16 is closed. For assembly with the housing 14, the retainer assembly 16 is supported by the housing 14 and is specifically located within the penetration 24. The retainer assembly 16 can have various designs, structures, and components in different embodiments. In the first embodiment of FIGS. 1-6, the retainer assembly 16 includes a primary latch 28 and a secondary latch 30.

[0013] The primary latch 28 is inserted into the penetration 24. Now referring specifically to Figures 5 and 6, the primary latch 28 has a pair of retention prongs 32 extending radially inward from each of its side walls for engaging a flange or other end formation of the spigot and securing the spigot to the quick connector 10. When a spigot is not inserted into the quick connector 10, the retention prongs 32 are suspended in the main passage 22 in the insertion path of the spigot, and a shoulder 34 on each retention prong 32 acts as a detent to prevent radial downward movement of the secondary latch 30. The secondary latch 30 cannot close due to interference caused by the shoulders 34 when a spigot is not inserted into the quick connector 10. When a spigot is inserted, the flange or other end formation of the spigot strikes the retention prongs 32, bending them rearward and radially outward. As the flange or end formation passes the retaining prongs 32, the retaining prongs 32 are biased against the exterior of the spigot, but do not return completely to their previous suspended position. The retaining prongs 32 remain biased against the exterior of the spigot. Upon hitting the exterior of the spigot, the shoulders 34 are displaced radially outward and out of the path of the radially downward movement of the secondary latch 30. The interference caused by the shoulders 34 is now removed and the secondary latch 30 can close. In addition to the retaining prongs 32, the retaining rims 36 also engage with the flanges or other end formations of the spigot. Additionally, a pair of guides 38 extend axially from the primary latch 28. The guides 38 have hook-like ends that are received in slits 40 in the secondary latch 30 and capture the secondary latch 30 from axial separation from the primary latch 28 while still allowing some radial movement of the secondary latch 30 relative to the primary latch 28. The slit 40 is partially established by a curved upright 42 which provides some resistance to free radially downward and upward movement of the secondary latch 30. Finally, the primary latch 28 has a tab 44 provided on the exterior of the housing 14 for manipulation by a user. The tab 44 can be pressed for assembly of the retainer assembly 16 within the housing 14 and can be pulled for disassembly and removal.Tab 44 may be sized for manipulation by a user's hand.

[0014] The secondary latch 30 is coupled to the primary latch 28 via guide slit interengagement and then inserted into the penetration 24 together with the primary latch 28. The secondary latch 30 provides physical and visual verification that the spigot is inserted sufficiently deep into the main passageway 22 of the housing. The secondary latch 30 moves between an open position and a closed position. The open position is shown in Figures 1 and 3, and the closed position is shown in Figures 2 and 4. The open position serves as an indication that the connection between the quick connector 10 and the spigot is incomplete. Meanwhile, the closed position serves as an indication that the connection between the quick connector 10 and the spigot is complete. The movement between the open and closed positions by the secondary latch 30 is relative to the housing 14 and relative to the primary latch 28. The secondary latch 30 moves radially downward to the closed position and conversely moves radially upward to the open position. The movement is perpendicular and transverse to the direction of insertion of the spigot into the main passageway 22 of the housing. 5 and 6, the secondary latch 30 has a retaining wall 46 to engage the exterior of the spigot and a flange or other end formation to help secure the spigot to the quick connector 10. When the secondary latch 30 is closed, the retaining wall 46 abuts the exterior of the spigot. The retaining wall 46 extends downwardly from a body 48 of the secondary latch 30. A bridge portion 50 of the body 48 flares out to present a depression mechanism for a user to press the secondary latch 30 into a closed position.

[0015] In the illustrated embodiment, the ability and inability to read and scan the data matrix 18 is achieved in coordination with the opening and closing movement of the secondary latch 30. In the first embodiment, for example, the secondary latch 30 has a first arm 52, which conceals the data matrix 18 in an open position, and a second arm 54, which conversely reveals the data matrix 18 in a closed position. The first arm 52 extends from one side of the body 48, and in particular from the bridge portion 50, and the second arm 54 extends from the opposite side of the body 48 and the bridge portion 50. As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the first and second arms 52, 54 remain outside the housing 14 when the retainer assembly 16 is assembled therein and when the retainer assembly 16 is in the closed and open positions, and the first and second arms 52, 54 remain outside the main passageway 22 and outside the penetration 24. The first and second arms 52, 54 are integral extensions of the body 48 and move downward and upward with the secondary latch 30 relative to the major axis of the main passageway 22 as the secondary latch 30 moves up and down to the closed and open positions.

[0016] With particular reference to Figures 5 and 6, the first and second arms 52, 54 are similar in design and construction. Each arm 52, 54 has an elongated body 56 and a barrier wall 58. The elongated body 56 extends from a proximal end 60 of the body 48 to a distal end 62 of the barrier wall 58. The elongated body 56 has a curve within it to complement the exterior of the housing 14 and to position the barrier wall 58 at and near the data matrix 18 when assembled and in use. The barrier wall 58 constitutes the free and terminal ends of the particular arm 52, 54. The barrier wall 58 has a shape and size suitable to physically shield and block the data matrix 18 from readability and scannability when the secondary latch 30 is open, and then unshield and unblock the data matrix 18 for proper readability and scanning when the secondary latch 30 is closed. The barrier wall 58 is rectangular in this embodiment and depends axially perpendicularly from the elongated body 56. As perhaps best demonstrated by Figure 1, the barrier wall 58 only partially shields and blocks the data matrix 18 in the open position. It has been found that partial shielding impedes the ability to properly read and scan the data matrix 18. In other embodiments, the barrier wall 58 can have different shapes and sizes and can more completely or completely shield and block the data matrix 18. Additionally, there can be a slight clearance between the facing surfaces of the barrier wall 58 and the data matrix 18.

[0017] The data matrix 18 aids in the detection and verification of the intended proper connection, or lack thereof, between the quick connector 10 and the spigot. The data matrix 18 can only be properly read and scanned by the device when the retainer assembly 16 is closed with the secondary latch 30 in its closed position. Absent that condition, such as the secondary latch 30 in its open position, the device cannot properly read and scan the data matrix 18. The ability to read the data matrix 18 serves as an indication that the secondary latch 30 is in the closed position, and ultimately, that a proper connection has been made between the quick connector 10 and the spigot. Conversely, the inability to read the data matrix 18 serves as an indication that the secondary latch 30 is in the open position, and ultimately, that a proper connection has not been made between the quick connector 10 and the spigot. Additionally, the detection and verification provided by the data matrix 18 can supplement other means of physical and visual verification provided by the quick connector 10, depending on the particular embodiment. In the embodiment of the drawings, for example, the closing of the secondary latch 30 also provides verification of the connection. Additional verification via the data matrix 18 may be desirable and useful in applications where the intended connection is of increased importance. Additionally, a device may read and scan the data matrix 18 at a location remote from the quick connector 10 and do so without making physical contact with the quick connector 10. The device may be a data matrix scanner or reader. For example, in a manufacturing setting, the device may be located on assembly, inspection, and / or installation production lines, as well as other locations. The device may also be a handheld device.

[0018] The data matrix 18 can have various forms in different embodiments. The data matrix 18 can be, for example, a two-dimensional machine-readable code consisting of a black and white pattern. Examples include a quick response (QR) code, a bar code, and many others. Depending on its form, the data matrix 18 can encode information and data in letters and / or numbers and can communicate a part indication, a location of an installation indication, a date of an installation indication, or other things. The data matrix 18 can be marked on a label or other substrate that is then adhered in a predetermined location on the quick connector 10, or can be marked directly in a predetermined location on the quick connector 10 or a component thereof, such as by printing or laser etching. In a first embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 1-4, the data matrix 18 includes a first data matrix 64 and a second data matrix 66. The first and second data matrices 64, 66 are present on the exterior surface 20 of the housing 14 and are disposed near the first open end 12. The first data matrix 64 is disposed on one side of the housing 14 for interaction with the first arm 52, and the second data matrix 66 is disposed on the opposite side of the housing 14 for interaction with the second arm 54. During movement of the first and second arms 52, 54, the first and second data matrices 64, 66 remain stationary relative to them. In this embodiment, having a pair of data matrices at different locations on the housing 14 corresponds to reading and scanning at least one of the first or second data matrices 64, 66 during various orientations of the quick connector 10 during installation, where only one may be accessible and the other inaccessible. Here, the ability to read or scan only one of the first or second data matrices 64, 66 may function by itself as an indication that the secondary latch 30 is closed. Additionally, in alternative forms of the first embodiment, the secondary latch may have a single arm and provide a single data matrix. In a more specific example of the first embodiment, the first and second data matrices 64, 66 are laser etched directly into the exterior surface 20 of the housing 14 at their respective locations.Each data matrix 64, 66 may have a square shape of five millimeters by five millimeters (5 mm x 5 mm), according to one example, although other shapes and sizes are possible in other examples.

[0019] In use, the barrier wall 58 of the first arm 52 partially shields and blocks full and proper readability and scannability of the first data matrix 64 when the secondary latch 30 is in the open position (e.g., FIGS. 1 and 3), while the barrier wall 58 of the second arm 54 partially shields and blocks full and proper readability and scannability of the second data matrix 66 when the secondary latch 30 is in the open position. Conversely, when the secondary latch 30 is in the closed position (e.g., FIGS. 2 and 4), the first and second data matrices 64, 66 are fully exposed and revealed for full and proper readability and scannability. In the closed position, the first matrix 64 is not shielded and blocked, and the second matrix 66 is not shielded and blocked at the same time. That is, the barrier wall 58 of the first arm 52 no longer partially occludes and no longer partially blocks the first data matrix 64, and the barrier wall 58 of the second arm 54 no longer partially occludes and no longer partially blocks the second data matrix 66.

[0020] A second embodiment of the fluid line quick connector 10 is shown in Figures 7-11. Many components of the second embodiment are similar to the first embodiment, and those similarities may not be repeated here in the description of the second embodiment. In Figures 7-11, the ability and inability to read and scan the data matrix 18 is accomplished in a different manner than described above. Unlike the first embodiment, this second embodiment of the quick connector 10 includes a slide 68 that supports the data matrix 18. The slide 68 can move during use, as described below, which can in turn move the data matrix 18 supported thereon. To accommodate insertion of the slide 68, the primary latch 28 has a slot 70 and a through hole 72. The slot 70 is defined within the tab 44 and extends axially longitudinally, with an open end 74 for initially receiving the slide 68. The slot 70 can also have a lip 76 on each of its sides. The lips 76 project slightly circumferentially towards each other and serve to guide the translational sliding movement of the slide 68 during use and to hold the slide 68 in place within the slot 70. The through hole 72 passes axially through the tab 44, and in particular through a bridge portion 78 of the tab 44. The through hole 72 opens into the slot 70 on one axial side and into the secondary latch 30 on the opposite axial side. The through hole 72 and the slot 70 are in open communication with each other. The through hole 72 receives the insertion of an appendage 80 of the slide 68. The appendage 80 is an integral extension of the slide 68 having a smaller size compared to the larger body of the slide 68, as perhaps best shown in FIG. 8. The data matrix 18 is present in the body of the slide and not in the appendage 80.

[0021] 11, to facilitate and actuate the sliding movement of the slide 68, the secondary latch 30 of this second embodiment has an inclined surface 82. The inclined surface 82 is present on an extension 84 of the secondary latch 30 and is established by a plane inclined relative to a radial direction. The extension 84 depends radially downward from the bridge portion 50. It projects downward at a left-right intermediate portion of the bridge portion 50. The extension 84 depends directly from the inclined surface 82 and has a stop surface 86 depending from the underside of the bridge portion 50. Unlike the inclination of the inclined surface 82, the stop surface 86 is oriented vertically downward from the bridge portion 50 in line with the radial direction, according to the orientation of FIG. 11. The data matrix 18 is present on a top surface 88 of the slide 68 and, according to one example, can be laser etched directly onto the top surface 88 or can be provided on the top surface 88 via another technique as described elsewhere herein. In the assembled state, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7, the top surface 88 and data matrix 18 face vertically upward relative to the housing 14 .

[0022] In use, as shown in FIG. 10, the slide 68 is first set in place in the slot 70 and slid axially forward with the secondary latch 30 in the open position. The through hole 72 has the appendage 80 inserted therein. The slide 68 is received in the slot 70 and the appendage 80 is received in the through hole 72. To achieve a snap-fit ​​or press-fit between the appendage 80 and the through hole 72, the appendage 80 can have a barbed end or some other end formation or end enlargement of the same kind. Since the secondary latch 30 and the extension 84 are disposed radially upward with respect to the appendage 80 in the open position, the spacing between the inclined surface 82 and the appendage 80 corresponds to the axial forward movement of the slide 68. According to FIG. 10, the free end or terminal end of the appendage 80 can abut against the inclined surface 82 when the slide 58 is axially forward. In this initial or retracted position of the slide 68, the data matrix 18 is partially shielded by the bridge portion 78 and blocked from readability and scannability. The bridge portion 78 physically masks the lower portion of the data matrix 18. As shown in FIG. 10, only the upper portion of the data matrix 18 may be exposed, with the longitudinal extent 71 of the slot 70 being exposed. As previously mentioned, it has been found that partial shielding impedes the ability to read and scan the data matrix 18. In other embodiments, the bridge portion 78 may more completely shield and block the data matrix 18. Additionally, in other embodiments, the shielding may be caused in part or more by a portion of the secondary latch 30 instead of or in addition to the shielding caused by the primary latch 28. For example, the bridge portion 50 may have an extension that causes shielding. As the secondary latch 30 moves radially downward toward the closed position, the direct surface-to-surface abutment between the ramp 82 and the free end of the appendage 80 urges the slide 68 and the data matrix 18 to slide in the opposite direction and axially backward. The ramp 82 urges the slide 68 to move. The sliding movement is relative to the slot 70. Furthermore, the sliding movement is axially aligned but perpendicular and transverse to the radially downward movement of the secondary latch 30 .This second or extended position of the slide 68 is shown in Figures 7, 9, and 11. Now, the data matrix 18 is unobstructed and unblocked. Full and proper reading and scanning by the device can now occur. The appendage 80 may remain in abutment with the stop surface 86, as best shown in Figure 11, so that the slide 68 cannot move axially forward from the second position when the secondary latch 30 is in the closed position, and thus the data matrix 18 remains exposed for reading and scanning.

[0023] Movement of slide 68 and full exposure of data matrix 18 is caused by radially downward movement of secondary latch 30 and, in this embodiment, is not caused by a direct and immediate component-to-component collision between slide 68 and a spigot or other male mate entering quick connector 10. In other words, movement of slide 68 does not depend on being struck by a male mate upon its entry into quick connector 10, but rather on being struck by secondary latch 30 as it moves radially downward.

[0024] A third embodiment of the fluid line quick connector 10 is shown in Figures 12-15. Many components of the third embodiment are similar to the first embodiment, and those similarities may not be repeated here in the description of the third embodiment. In Figures 12-15, the ability and inability to read and scan the data matrix 18 is accomplished in a manner somewhat similar to the first embodiment. However, unlike the first embodiment, in this third embodiment, the housing 14 defines an opening that interacts with a protrusion of the secondary latch 30. With reference to Figure 14, a first opening 90 is present on one side of the housing 14, and a second opening (not specifically shown) of similar size and shape is present on the opposite side of the housing 14. The first opening 90 corresponds to receiving the protrusion of the first arm 52, and the second opening corresponds to receiving the protrusion of the second arm 54. The first opening 90 and the second opening are located near the first open end 12. The first opening 90 is circumferentially adjacent to the first data matrix 64 and below the first data matrix 64, as shown in FIG. 14. Similarly, the second opening is circumferentially adjacent to the second data matrix 66 and below the second data matrix 66. The first opening 90 can have a square, rectangular, or other shape, and the second opening can also have a square, rectangular, or other shape. The first and second openings 90 extend radially through the entire housing 14. Taking the first opening 90 of FIG. 14 as an example, the first opening 90 is surrounded on all four sides by the walls of the housing. An axially forward wall edge 92 bounds it on one side, an axially aft wall edge 94 bounds it on the other side, a radially upper wall edge 96 bounds it on the other side, and a radially lower wall edge 98 bounds it on the other side. Additionally, the openings can have other designs, configurations, and arrangements in other embodiments. For example, the openings need not extend completely through the housing 14 .

[0025] 12 and 13, in this embodiment, the first arm 52 has a pair of first protrusions 100 and the second arm 54 has a pair of second protrusions 102. The first protrusions 100 are received in the first opening 90 and the second protrusions 102 are received in the second opening. The reception occurs when the secondary latch 30 is in the closed position. Depending on the particular embodiment, the reception can provide one or more of: acting as a travel limiter and helping to guide assembly of the retainer assembly 16 with the housing 14 when the components are initially placed together; acting as a detent and helping to maintain the secondary latch 30 in the closed position; and impeding and preventing inadvertent undesired movement of the secondary latch 30 and its first and second arms 52, 54 when the secondary latch 30 is in the closed position. The protrusions can have a variety of designs, configurations, and arrangements in different embodiments. Their exact design, construction, and placement may be dictated by the intended function and purpose of the associated opening, associated arm, and / or protrusion, among other possible influences.

[0026] In the embodiment of Figs. 12 and 13, the first protrusion 100 is located on the lower surface 104 of the first arm 52, in particular its barrier wall 58, and protrudes radially inward therefrom. Similarly, the second protrusion 102 is located on the lower surface 104 of the second arm 54, in particular its barrier wall 58, and protrudes radially inward therefrom. The first protrusion 100 can directly face and directly contact the first data matrix 64 when the barrier wall 58 of the first arm 52 shields and blocks the first data matrix 64 in the open position of the secondary latch 30. Similarly, the second protrusion 102 can directly face and directly contact the second data matrix 66 in the open position of the secondary latch. In this embodiment, the first and second protrusions 100, 102 exhibit similar design, structure, and arrangement relative to each other. 13 shows an enlarged view of the second protrusion 102 as an example, and the description of the second protrusion 102 here is similar to that of the first protrusion 100. Each of the pair of protrusions 102 has the same shape and size, and each resembles a half cylinder. The half cylinders are separated and spaced apart from each other.

[0027] On the radially facing side, each of the second projections 102 has a rounded outer surface 106 with a curved transition 108 diverging from the lower surface 104. The rounded outer surface 106 and the curved transition 108 provide a detent function for the first and second projections 100, 102 and resist radially upward movement of the first and second arms 52, 54 when the first and second projections 100, 102 are received in the first and second openings 90 and when the secondary latch 30 is in the closed position. The detent function and resistance are the result of a surface-to-surface engagement interference between the rounded outer surface 106 and the curved transition 108 and the radially upper wall edges 96 of the first and second openings 90. The resistance can be overcome by applying a sufficient amount of radially upward force to the secondary latch 30. The first and second projections 100, 102 are then released from the first and second openings 90, allowing the secondary latch 30 to be in an open position. Additionally, each of the second projections 102 has a flat end face 110 on an axially forward side and an axially rearward side. The end faces 110 impede and prevent fore and aft axial movement of the first and second arms 52, 54 when the first and second projections 100, 102 are received in the first and second openings 90 and when the secondary latch 30 is in a closed position. Such fore and aft axial movement is often undesirable and may be inadvertently caused during initial assembly of the secondary latch 30 in the housing 14 and during subsequent installation and use. Movement is prevented by surface-to-surface engagement interference between the end faces 110 and the axially forward wall edges 92 and 94 of the first and second openings 90, respectively.

[0028] Additionally, as examples of various possible embodiments, the first and second protrusions 100, 102 can have different amounts, including a single protrusion on each arm or three or more protrusions on each arm, or only one of the arms and one of the barrier walls can have one or more of the protrusions, while the other arm and barrier wall is devoid of protrusions.

[0029] It should be understood that the foregoing description is not a definition of the invention, but rather a description of one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but rather is defined only by the following claims. Furthermore, statements contained in the foregoing description should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or the definition of terms used in the claims, unless the terms or phrases are specifically defined above in relation to a specific embodiment. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art. All such other embodiments, changes, and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0030] As used in this specification and claims, the terms "for example," "for instance," and "such as," as well as the verbs "comprising," "having," "including," and other verb forms thereof, when used in combination with a list of one or more components or other items, are each to be construed as open-ended, meaning that the list should not be viewed as excluding other additional components or items. Other terms are to be construed using their broadest reasonable meaning unless used in a context requiring a different interpretation.

Claims

1. 1. A fluid line quick connector, comprising: a housing having a main passage and a through-portion; a retainer assembly having at least one latch, the at least one latch having an open position and a closed position; Data matrix and Equipped with A fluid line quick connector, wherein when said at least one latch is in said open position, said data matrix is ​​at least partially obscured, and when said at least one latch is in said closed position, said at least partial obscuration is not present.

2. The at least one latch includes a primary latch and a secondary latch, the primary latch is insertable through the through-portion; the secondary latch is positionable adjacent to the primary latch and has the open position and the closed position; 2. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1, wherein the data matrix is ​​at least partially obscured when the secondary latch is in the open position, and wherein the at least partial obscuration is not present when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

3. 3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 2, wherein movement of said secondary latch from said open position to said closed position is perpendicular to a direction of insertion of individual connection pieces within said main passage of said housing.

4. 3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 2, wherein the secondary latch has an arm that at least partially shields the data matrix when the secondary latch is in the open position, and wherein the at least partial shielding by the arm is not present when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

5. 5. The fluid line quick connector of claim 4, wherein when the secondary latch is in the closed position, the arm moves with the secondary latch, and when the secondary latch is in the closed position and the arm moves with the secondary latch, the data matrix remains stationary relative to the housing.

6. 5. The fluid line quick connector of claim 4, wherein the arm extends from a body of the secondary latch and is outside of the housing and outside of the main passage and outside of the penetration when the secondary latch is in the open position and when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

7. 3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 2, wherein the secondary latch has a first arm and a second arm, the data matrix includes a first data matrix and a second data matrix, the first arm at least partially shields the first data matrix when the secondary latch is in the open position, and the second arm at least partially shields the second data matrix when the secondary latch is in the open position.

8. 3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 2, further comprising an arm that at least partially shields the data matrix when the secondary latch is in the open position, the at least partial shielding by the arm not being present when the secondary latch is in the closed position, the arm having an underside with a protrusion, the protrusion helping to maintain the secondary latch in the closed position.

9. 9. The fluid line quick connector of claim 8, wherein the protrusion prevents axial forward movement, axial rearward movement, or both the axial forward movement and the axial rearward movement of the secondary latch when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

10. 9. The fluid line quick connector of claim 8, wherein the housing has an opening, and the projection is received in the opening when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

11. 3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 2, further comprising a slide, the data matrix being present on the slide, the primary latch or the secondary latch at least partially shielding the data matrix when the secondary latch is in the open position, and the at least partial shielding not being present when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

12. The fluid line quick connector of claim 11 , wherein the slide is urged to move when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

13. 12. The fluid line quick connector of claim 11, wherein the secondary latch has an angled surface that abuts the slide when the secondary latch is in the closed position, the abutment urging the slide to move.

14. 3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 2, further comprising a slide, the data matrix being on the slide, the primary latch having a slot for receiving the slide, and the slide moving relative to the slot when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

15. 1. A fluid line quick connector, comprising: a housing having a main passageway and an exterior surface; a retainer assembly supported by the housing, the retainer assembly including at least one latch, the at least one latch having an open position and having a closed position, the retainer assembly having at least one arm having a barrier wall; at least one data matrix present on the exterior surface of the housing, the data matrix being at least partially obscured through the barrier wall when the at least one latch is in the open position, the barrier wall moving to remove the at least partial obscuration when the at least one latch is in the closed position; 1. A fluid line quick connector comprising:

16. The at least one latch includes a primary latch and a secondary latch, the secondary latch having an open position relative to the primary latch and a closed position relative to the primary latch; the at least one arm includes a first arm and a second arm, the first arm extending from a body of the secondary latch on one side and the second arm extending from the body of the secondary latch on an opposite side, the first arm having a first barrier wall and the second arm having a second barrier wall; the at least one data matrix includes a first data matrix and a second data matrix, the first data matrix present on one side of the exterior surface of the housing and the second data matrix present on an opposite side of the exterior surface of the housing, the first data matrix being at least partially obscured through the first barrier wall when the secondary latch is in the open position, the second data matrix being at least partially obscured through the second barrier wall when the secondary latch is in the open position, and the first barrier wall and the second barrier wall moving to remove the at least partial obscuration when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

16. The fluid line quick connector of claim 15.

17. 16. The fluid line quick connector of claim 15, wherein the housing has an opening and the barrier wall has at least one protrusion that is received in the opening when the at least one latch is in the closed position, and wherein the reception of the at least one protrusion in the opening resists radially upward movement of the at least one arm and prevents axial movement of the at least one arm in an axial forward direction, an axial rearward direction, or both the axial forward direction and the axial rearward direction.

18. 1. A fluid line quick connector, comprising: a housing having a main passage; a retainer assembly supported by the housing, the retainer assembly including a primary latch and a secondary latch, the secondary latch having an open position relative to the primary latch and a closed position relative to the primary latch; a slide having a first position and a second position, the slide being urged to move from the first position to the second position via impact with the retainer assembly when the secondary latch is in the closed position; a data matrix present on the slide, the data matrix being at least partially hidden when the slide is in the first position and readable when the slide is in the second position; 1. A fluid line quick connector comprising:

19. 20. The fluid line quick connector of claim 18, wherein the slide is received in a slot of the primary latch and moves within the slot from the first position to the second position via impact with the retainer assembly when the secondary latch is in the closed position.

20. 20. The fluid line quick connector of claim 18, wherein the secondary latch has an extension, and the slide is urged to move from the first position to the second position via impact with the extension when the secondary latch is in the second position.

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