Connector and connector assembly

Abstract

To provide a connector capable of accurately confirming whether or not a high voltage module is fastened to a high-voltage mating module by using a detection component, and improving accuracy and efficiency of an examination.SOLUTION: A connector includes: a housing 10; a high-voltage module; and a detection component 11 which is rotatably installed on the exterior of the housing for detecting whether the high-voltage module has been fastened to a high-voltage mating module. When the high voltage module is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the high voltage module is at a position that interferes with the detection component 11, so that the detection component 11 cannot be rotated from an initial position to a detection position; when the high-voltage module is fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is at a position that does not interfere with the detection component 11, allowing the detection component 11 to be rotated from the initial position to the detection position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of Chinese Patent Application No. CN202410446422.5, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on April 12, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a connector and a connector assembly including the connector. [Background technology]

[0003] In the prior art, a high-voltage connector typically includes a housing, a terminal, and a fastener disposed within the housing. A mounting opening is formed in the housing, and the fastener enters the housing through the mounting opening. The fastener penetrates the terminal, and the fastener is adapted to be threadedly connected to a nut in a mating terminal or a high-voltage mating connector, and is used to secure the terminal to the mating terminal, thereby achieving reliable electrical contact between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0004] In the prior art, visual inspection is usually used to prevent overtightening of fasteners. However, it is difficult to accurately check whether a fastener is tightened with the naked eye, which makes it easy to make mistakes, and there is still a risk of the fastener not being tightened. Therefore, the method of visually inspecting whether a fastener is tightened has problems such as low accuracy and low inspection efficiency. If a fastener is not tightened, it may cause a malfunction of the high-voltage connection product and even a safety accident. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present invention has been made to overcome or mitigate at least one aspect of the above disadvantages. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector comprising: a housing; a high-voltage module provided in the housing, the high-voltage module being adapted to be secured to a high-voltage mating module of a mating connector for electrical connection to the high-voltage mating module; and a detection component rotatably mounted on the outside of the housing for detecting whether the high-voltage module is secured to the high-voltage mating module. When the high-voltage module is not secured to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that interferes with the detection component, and therefore the detection component cannot rotate from an initial position to a detection position; and when the high-voltage module is secured to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component, and the detection component can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high-voltage module includes a fastener, the fastener is suitable for threaded connection to the high-voltage mating module and is used to secure the high-voltage module to the high-voltage mating module. When the fastener is not tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the fastener is in a position that interferes with the detection component, so that the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position, and when the fastener is tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the fastener moves to a position that does not interfere with the detection component, so that the detection component can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a connector includes a plurality of fasteners, and a detection component is used to simultaneously detect whether all of the fasteners are fastened to the high-voltage mating module, and when any one of the plurality of fasteners is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position, and when all of the plurality of fasteners are fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the detection component can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fastener has an outer end exposed from the housing, and the outer end is configured to engage with an operating tool so that the fastener can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with the outer end, and when the fastener is not tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer end of the fastener is in a position that interferes with the detection component, and therefore the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position, and when the fastener is tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer end of the fastener is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component, and the detection component can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the detection component includes a pair of side arms, one end of which is rotatably connected to each side of the housing, and an upper cover connected between the other ends of the pair of side arms. When the fasteners are not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, outer ends of the fasteners interfere with the upper cover of the detection component to prevent the detection component from rotating from the initial position to the detection position, and when the fasteners are fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer ends of the fasteners do not interfere with the upper cover of the detection component, allowing the detection component to rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0011] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a pivot hole is formed at one end of each of the pair of side arms, and a protruding pivot shaft is formed on each side of the housing, the pivot shaft rotatably engages with the pivot hole, and the detection component can rotate around the pivot shaft.

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the detection component is in the initial position, the outer end of the fastener is exposed outside the top cover of the detection component, so that the operating tool can engage with the outer end of the fastener to tighten or loosen the fastener.

[0013] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the detection component is in the detection position, the outer end of the fastener is hidden by the top cover of the detection component, and therefore the operating tool cannot engage with the outer end of the fastener, preventing the tightened fastener from being accidentally loosened by the operating tool.

[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a joint suitable for engaging with an operating tool is formed on the upper part of the outer end of the fastener, so that the fastener can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with the joint, and when the detection component is in the detection position, the upper cover of the detection component covers the joint of the fastener, so that the operating tool cannot engage with the fastener, preventing an already tightened fastener from being accidentally loosened by the operating tool.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the upper cover of the detection component includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in a rotational direction of the detection component, and when the detection component is in an initial position and the fastener is not tightened, the outer end of the fastener is pressed against the first side of the upper cover of the detection component, and therefore the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0016] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first positioning protrusion is formed on a first side of the upper cover of the detection component, and a first positioning groove suitable for fitting into the first positioning protrusion is formed on the outside of the housing, and when the detection component is in the detection position, the first positioning protrusion engages with the first positioning groove to position the detection component in the detection position.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a second positioning groove is formed on a second side of the upper cover of the detection component, and a second positioning protrusion suitable for fitting into the second positioning groove is formed on the outside of the housing, and when the detection component is in the initial position, the second positioning protrusion engages with the second positioning groove to position the detection component in the initial position.

[0018] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high voltage module further includes terminals provided on the housing, and fasteners are used to secure the terminals of the connector to mating terminals of the mating connector to ensure reliable electrical contact between the terminals and the mating terminals.

[0019] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high voltage module further includes a cable, one end of the cable extending into the housing and electrically connected to the terminal, and when the terminal is fixed to the mating terminal, the cable is electrically connected to the mating terminal through the terminal.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fastener passes through the terminal, the fastener being adapted to threadably connect to a nut in a mating terminal or mating connector to secure the terminal to the mating terminal.

[0021] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a mounting hole is formed in a housing, a fastener extends into the housing through the mounting hole, and the fastener includes a bolt suitable for threaded connection to a nut in a mating terminal or a mating connector, and an end cap that engages with a head of the bolt and is disposed outside the housing and is used to cover the mounting hole. When the bolt is tightened, the end cap covers the mounting hole of the housing and is in electrical contact with an outer circumferential surface of the peripheral wall of the mounting hole to prevent electromagnetic leakage.

[0022] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a joint suitable for engaging with an operating tool is formed on the top of the end cap, so that the bolt can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with the joint, and when the bolt is not tightened, the end cap is in a position that interferes with the detection component, so that the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position, and when the bolt is tightened, the end cap is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component, so that the detection component can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0023] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a first insulator is formed on the head of the bolt and a second insulator is formed inside the end cap, and the first insulator engages with the second insulator to engage the bolt to the end cap and electrically insulate the bolt from the end cap.

[0024] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the fastener further includes a seal ring fitted to the second insulator, and when the bolt is tightened, the seal ring is radially compressed between the second insulator and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall of the mounting opening to seal the mounting opening.

[0025] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the terminal includes a flat first terminal welded to one end of the cable and a cylindrical second terminal riveted to the first terminal. When the bolt is tightened, an end face of the second terminal makes axial electrical contact with an end face of the mating terminal to establish an electrical connection between the terminal and the mating terminal.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly comprising the connector described above and a mating connector that mates with the connector.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the mating connector includes a mating housing that mates with the housing of the connector, and a high-voltage mating module provided in the mating housing for electrical connection to the high-voltage module of the connector, the high-voltage module being secured to the high-voltage mating module for electrical connection thereto.

[0028] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high-voltage mating module includes a mating terminal having a screw hole formed therein, and the fastener is screwed into the screw hole of the mating terminal to secure the terminal and the mating terminal to each other and realize an electrical connection between the high-voltage module and the high-voltage mating module.

[0029] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the high-voltage mating module includes a mating terminal and a nut secured to the mating terminal, and a fastener passes through the mating terminal and is threaded onto the nut to secure the terminal and the mating terminal to each other and achieve an electrical connection between the high-voltage module and the high-voltage mating module.

[0030] In the above exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the high-voltage module is not fixed to the high-voltage mating module, the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Only when the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module can the detection component rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Therefore, the present invention allows the detection component to accurately determine whether the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of the inspection.

[0031] In addition, in the above exemplary embodiment according to the present invention, when the fastener is not tightened, the detection component cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Only when the fastener is tightened can the detection component rotate from the initial position to the inspection position. Therefore, the present invention can accurately determine whether the fastener is tightened by the detection component, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the inspection and effectively preventing the problem of forgetting to tighten the fastener.

[0032] These and other features of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of illustrative embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a connector assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the fasteners not yet tightened and the detection component in an initial position. [Figure 2] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the fastener not yet tightened and the detection component in an initial position. [Figure 3]1 is an illustrative exploded view of a connector assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with fasteners not yet tightened and detection components in an initial position. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the fasteners not yet tightened and the detection component in an initial position. [Figure 5] 1 is an illustrative exploded view of a connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with fasteners not yet tightened. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a sensing component of a connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the fastener tightened and the detection component in an initial position. [Figure 8] 10 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the fastener tightened and the sensing component rotated to a sensing position. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the fasteners tightened and the sensing component rotated to a sensing position; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0035] In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. It will be apparent, however, that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are diagrammatically shown to simplify the drawings.

[0036] According to a general aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector comprising: a housing; a high-voltage module mounted in the housing, the high-voltage module adapted to be secured to a high-voltage mating module of a mating connector for electrical connection to the high-voltage mating module; and a detection component rotatably mounted on the outside of the housing for detecting whether the high-voltage module is secured to the high-voltage mating module. When the high-voltage module is not secured to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that interferes with the detection component, and therefore the detection component cannot rotate from an initial position to a detection position; and when the high-voltage module is secured to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component, and the detection component can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0037] According to another general aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly, comprising the connector described above and a mating connector adapted to mate with the connector.

[0038] Figure 1 is an illustrative perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with fasteners 12 not yet tightened and detection component 11 in an initial position. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with fasteners 12 not yet tightened and detection component 11 in an initial position. Figure 3 is an illustrative exploded view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with fasteners 12 not yet tightened and detection component 11 in an initial position. Figure 4 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with fasteners 12 not yet tightened and detection component 11 in an initial position. FIG. 5 is an illustrative exploded view of connector 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with fasteners 12 not yet tightened. FIG. 6 is an illustrative perspective view of sensing component 11 of connector 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with fasteners 12 tightened and sensing component 11 in an initial position. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with fasteners 12 tightened and sensing component 11 rotated to a sensing position. FIG. 9 is an illustrative perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with fasteners 12 tightened and sensing component 11 rotated to a sensing position.

[0039] As shown in Figures 1 to 9, a connector 1 is disclosed in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The connector 1 includes a housing 10, a high-voltage module, and a detection component 11. The high-voltage module is mounted in the housing 10 and adapted to be fixed to a high-voltage mating module of a mating connector 2 and electrically connected to the high-voltage mating module. The detection component 11 is rotatably mounted on the outside of the housing 10 to detect whether the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module. When the high-voltage module is not fixed to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that interferes with the detection component 11, preventing the detection component 11 from rotating from the initial position to the detection position. When the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component 11, allowing the detection component 11 to rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0040] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, when the high-voltage module is not fixed to the high-voltage mating module, the detection component 11 cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Only when the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module can the detection component 11 rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Therefore, the present invention can accurately determine whether the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module using the detection component 11, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of the inspection.

[0041] 1-9 , in the illustrated embodiment, the high-voltage module includes a fastener 12 that is adapted to be threadably connected to a high-voltage mating module to secure the high-voltage module to the high-voltage mating module. When the fastener 12 is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the fastener 12 is in a position that interferes with the detection component 11, preventing the detection component 11 from rotating from its initial position to its detection position. When the fastener 12 is fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the fastener 12 moves to a position that does not interfere with the detection component 11, allowing the detection component 11 to rotate from its initial position to its detection position.

[0042] 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, when fastener 12 is not tightened, detection component 11 cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Only when fastener 12 is tightened can detection component 11 rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Therefore, the present invention can accurately confirm whether fastener 12 is tightened using detection component 11, improving the accuracy and efficiency of inspection and effectively preventing the problem of fastener 12 being left untightened.

[0043] 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, connector 1 includes a plurality of fasteners 12, and detection component 11 is used to simultaneously detect whether the plurality of fasteners 12 are fastened to the high-voltage mating module of mating connector 2. When any one of the plurality of fasteners 12 is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module of mating connector 2, detection component 11 cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position. Only when all of the plurality of fasteners 12 are fastened to the high-voltage mating modules of mating connector 2, can detection component 11 rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 1-9 , in the illustrated embodiment, fastener 12 has an outer end 12a exposed from housing 10. Outer end 12a of fastener 12 is adapted to engage with an operating tool (not shown) so that fastener 12 can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with outer end 12a. When fastener 12 is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module of mating connector 2, outer end 12a of fastener 12 is in a position that interferes with detection component 11 (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ), preventing detection component 11 from rotating from the initial position to the detection position. When fastener 12 is fastened to the high-voltage mating module of mating connector 2, outer end 12a of fastener 12 is in a position that does not interfere with detection component 11 (as shown in FIGS. 7-9 ), allowing detection component 11 to rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, the detection component 11 includes a pair of side arms 111 and an upper cover 110. One end of the pair of side arms 111 is rotatably connected to each side of the housing 10. The upper cover 110 is connected between the other ends of the pair of side arms 111. When the fastener 12 is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module of the mating connector 2, the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 interferes with the upper cover 110 of the detection component 11, preventing the detection component 11 from rotating from the initial position to the detection position. When the fastener 12 is fastened to the high-voltage mating module of the mating connector 2, the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 does not interfere with the upper cover 110 of the detection component 11, allowing the detection component 11 to rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0046] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, a pivot hole 11a is formed at one end of each of a pair of side arms 111, and a protruding pivot shaft 10a is formed on each side of the housing 10. The pivot shaft 10a is rotatably engaged with the pivot hole 11a, and the detection component 11 can rotate around the pivot shaft 10a.

[0047] As shown in Figures 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, when the detection component 11 is in the initial position, the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 is exposed outside the upper cover 110 of the detection component 11, and the operating tool can engage with the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 to tighten or loosen the fastener 12.

[0048] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, when the detection component 11 is in the detection position, the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 is hidden by the upper cover 110 of the detection component 11. Therefore, the operating tool cannot engage with the outer end 12a of the fastener 12, preventing the operating tool from accidentally loosening the already tightened fastener 12. This can increase the safety of using the connector.

[0049] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, a joint 121a suitable for engaging with an operating tool is formed on an upper portion of outer end 12a of fastener 12, so that fastener 12 can be tightened or loosened by an operating tool engaged with joint 121a. When detection component 11 is in the detection position, upper cover 110 of detection component 11 covers joint 121a of fastener 12, so that an operating tool cannot engage with fastener 12, preventing an already tightened fastener 12 from being inadvertently loosened by the operating tool.

[0050] 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, the upper cover 110 of the detection component 11 includes a first side and a second side that are opposite to each other in the rotational direction of the detection component 11. When the detection component 11 is in the initial position and the fastener 12 is not tightened, the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 is pressed against the first side of the upper cover 110 of the detection component 11, and therefore the detection component 11 cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0051] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, a first positioning protrusion 11c is formed on a first side portion of an upper cover 110 of the detection component 11, and a first positioning groove 10c suitable for fitting with the first positioning protrusion 11c is formed on the outside of the housing 10. When the detection component 11 is in the detection position, the first positioning protrusion 11c engages with the first positioning groove 10c to position the detection component 11 in the detection position.

[0052] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, a second positioning groove 11b is formed on a second side portion of an upper cover 110 of the detection component 11, and a second positioning protrusion 10b suitable for fitting into the second positioning groove 11b is formed on the outside of the housing 10. When the detection component 11 is in the initial position, the second positioning protrusion 10b engages with the second positioning groove 11b to position the detection component 11 in the initial position.

[0053] 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, the high-voltage module of the connector 1 further includes terminals 13 disposed in the housing 10. Fasteners 12 are used to secure the terminals 13 of the connector 1 to the mating terminals 23 of the mating connector 2, ensuring reliable electrical contact between the terminals 13 and the mating terminals 23.

[0054] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, the high-voltage module of connector 1 also includes cable 14. One end of cable 14 extends into housing 10 and is electrically connected to terminal 13. When terminal 13 is fixed to mating terminal 23, cable 14 is electrically connected to mating terminal 23 via terminal 13.

[0055] As shown in Figures 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, fastener 12 passes through terminal 13, and fastener 12 is suitable for threaded connection to a nut in mating terminal 23 or mating connector 2 to secure terminal 13 to mating terminal 23.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, a mounting hole 101 is formed in the housing 10, and the fastener 12 enters the housing 10 through the mounting hole 101. The fastener 12 includes a bolt 120 and an end cap 121. The bolt 120 is adapted to be threadedly connected to a nut in the mating terminal 23 or the mating connector 2. The end cap 121 is attached to the head of the bolt 120 and disposed on the outside of the housing 10 to cover the mounting hole 101. When the bolt 120 is tightened, the end cap 121 covers the mounting hole 101 of the housing 10 and is in electrical contact with the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall of the mounting hole 101 to prevent electromagnetic leakage. In the illustrated embodiment, the end cap 121 functions as the outer end 12a of the fastener 12 exposed from the outside of the housing 10. Housing 10 is the outer shield shell of the connector. Connector 1 also includes an insulating inner housing disposed within the outer shield shell, which is used to electrically insulate the conductive components within housing 10 from housing 10.

[0057] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, a joint 121a suitable for engaging with an operating tool is formed on the upper part of the end cap 121, so that the operating tool engaged with the joint 121a can tighten or loosen the bolt 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint 121a is a hole having a plum blossom-shaped cross section.

[0058] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, when the bolt 120 is not tightened, the end cap 121 is in a position that interferes with the detection component 11, preventing the detection component 11 from rotating from the initial position to the detection position. When the bolt 120 is tightened, the end cap 121 is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component 11, allowing the detection component 11 to rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

[0059] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, a first insulator 122 is formed on the head of the bolt 120, and a second insulator 123 is formed inside the end cap 121. The first insulator 122 is joined to the second insulator 123 to join the bolt 120 to the end cap 121 and electrically insulate the bolt 120 from the end cap 121.

[0060] 1 to 9 , in the illustrated embodiment, fastener 12 further includes a seal ring 124 fitted in second insulator 123. When bolt 120 is tightened, seal ring 124 is radially compressed between second insulator 123 and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall of mounting opening 101 to seal mounting opening 101, thereby preventing water vapor and dust from entering housing 10 through mounting opening 101.

[0061] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, the terminal 13 includes a first terminal 13 and a second terminal 13. The first terminal 13 is flat and welded to one end of the cable 14. The second terminal 13 is cylindrical and fixed (riveted) to the first terminal 13. When the bolt 120 is tightened, an end face of the second terminal 13 electrically contacts an end face of the mating terminal 23 in the axial direction, thereby realizing an electrical connection between the terminal 13 and the mating terminal 23.

[0062] 1 to 9, a connector assembly is also disclosed in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The connector parts include a connector 1 and a mating connector 2. The mating connector 2 is mated with the connector 1.

[0063] 1-9, in the illustrated embodiment, the mating connector 2 includes a mating housing 20 and a high-voltage mating module. The housing 20 mates with the housing 10 of the connector 1. The high-voltage mating module is mounted in the mating housing 20 for electrical connection to the high-voltage module of the connector 1. The high-voltage module is secured to the high-voltage mating module for electrical connection to the high-voltage mating module.

[0064] 1 to 9, in the illustrated embodiment, the high-voltage mating module includes a mating terminal 23, and a screw hole 23a is formed in the mating terminal 23. The fastener 12 is screwed into the screw hole 23a of the mating terminal 23 to secure the terminal 13 and the mating terminal 23 to each other, thereby realizing an electrical connection between the high-voltage module and the high-voltage mating module.

[0065] 1 to 9, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a high-voltage mating module includes a mating terminal 23 and a nut (not shown), and the nut is fixed to the mating terminal 23. A fastener 12 passes through the mating terminal 23 and is screwed onto the nut to fix the terminal 13 and the mating terminal 23 to each other, thereby realizing an electrical connection between the high-voltage module and the high-voltage mating module.

[0066] It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above embodiments are illustrative and not restrictive. For example, those skilled in the art can make many modifications to the above embodiments without any contradiction in structure or principle, and can freely combine various features described in different embodiments with each other.

[0067] While several exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present disclosure, the scope of which is defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

[0068] As used herein, elements described in the singular and preceded by the words "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is expressly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or elements having a particular characteristic can include additional such elements that do not have that characteristic.

Claims

1. A connector, a housing (10); a high-voltage module provided in the housing (10), the high-voltage module being adapted to be fixed to a high-voltage mating module of a mating connector (2) and electrically connected to the high-voltage mating module; a detection component (11) rotatably mounted on the outside of the housing (10) for detecting whether the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module; Equipped with When the high-voltage module is not fixed to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that interferes with the detection component (11), and therefore the detection component (11) cannot rotate from its initial position to its detection position; A connector in which, when the high-voltage module is fixed to the high-voltage mating module, the high-voltage module is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component (11), and the detection component (11) can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

2. the high-voltage module includes a fastener (12), the fastener (12) being suitable for threaded connection to the high-voltage mating module and being used to secure the high-voltage module to the high-voltage mating module; When the fastener (12) is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the fastener (12) is in a position interfering with the detection component (11), and therefore the detection component (11) cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position; 2. The connector of claim 1, wherein when the fastener (12) is tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the fastener (12) moves to a position where it does not interfere with the detection component (11), thereby allowing the detection component (11) to rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

3. The connector (1) comprises a plurality of fasteners (12), and the detection component (11) is used to simultaneously detect whether all the fasteners (12) are fastened to the high-voltage mating module; When any one of the plurality of fasteners (12) is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the detection component (11) cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position; 3. The connector of claim 2, wherein the detection component is capable of rotating from the initial position to the detection position when all of the fasteners are fastened to the high-voltage mating module.

4. The fastener (12) has an outer end (12a) exposed from the housing (10), and the outer end (12a) is configured to be engaged with an operating tool so that the fastener (12) can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with the outer end (12a); When the fastener (12) is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) is in a position where it interferes with the detection component (11), and therefore the detection component (11) cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position; 3. The connector of claim 2, wherein when the fastener (12) is tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component (11), and the detection component (11) can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

5. The detection component (11) a pair of side arms (111), one end of each of which is rotatably connected to both sides of the housing (10); an upper cover (110) connected between the other ends of the pair of side arms (111); Including, When the fastener (12) is not fastened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) interferes with the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11) to prevent the detection component (11) from rotating from the initial position to the detection position; 5. The connector of claim 4, wherein when the fastener (12) is tightened to the high-voltage mating module, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) does not interfere with the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11), and the detection component (11) can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

6. 6. The connector of claim 5, wherein a pivot hole (11a) is formed at one end of each of the pair of side arms (111), and a protruding pivot shaft (10a) is formed on each side of the housing (10), the pivot shaft (10a) is rotatably engaged with the pivot hole (11a), and the detection component (11) can rotate around the pivot shaft (10a).

7. 6. The connector of claim 5, wherein when the detection component (11) is in the initial position, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) is exposed outside the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11), and therefore the operating tool can engage with the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) to tighten or loosen the fastener (12).

8. 6. The connector of claim 5, wherein when the detection component (11) is in the detection position, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) is hidden by the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11), and therefore the operating tool cannot engage with the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12), preventing the tightened fastener (12) from being accidentally loosened by the operating tool.

9. a joint (121 a) suitable for engaging with the operating tool is formed on the upper portion of the outer end (12 a) of the fastener (12), so that the fastener (12) can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with the joint (121 a); 6. The connector of claim 5, wherein when the detection component (11) is in the detection position, the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11) covers the joint (121a) of the fastener (12), so that the operating tool cannot engage with the fastener (12), preventing the fastener (12) from being accidentally loosened by the operating tool after it has already been tightened.

10. The upper cover (110) of the detection component (11) includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in a rotational direction of the detection component (11); 6. The connector of claim 5, wherein when the detection component (11) is in the initial position and the fastener (12) is not tightened, the outer end (12a) of the fastener (12) is pressed against the first side of the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11), and therefore the detection component (11) cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

11. a first positioning protrusion (11c) is formed on the first side of the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11), and a first positioning groove (10c) suitable for fitting onto the first positioning protrusion (11c) is formed on the outside of the housing (10); 11. The connector of claim 10, wherein when the detection component (11) is in the detection position, the first positioning protrusion (11c) engages with the first positioning groove (10c) to position the detection component (11) in the detection position.

12. a second positioning groove (11b) is formed on the second side of the upper cover (110) of the detection component (11), and a second positioning protrusion (10b) suitable for fitting into the second positioning groove (11b) is formed on the outside of the housing (10); 11. The connector of claim 10, wherein when the detection component (11) is in the initial position, the second positioning protrusion (10b) engages with the second positioning groove (11b) to position the detection component (11) in the initial position.

13. The high voltage module further includes a terminal (13) provided on the housing (10); 13. The connector according to claim 2, wherein the fastener (12) is used to fix the terminal (13) of the connector (1) to the mating terminal (23) of the mating connector (2) to ensure reliable electrical contact between the terminal (13) and the mating terminal (23).

14. The high voltage module further includes a cable (14), one end of which extends into the housing (10) and is electrically connected to the terminal (13); 14. The connector according to claim 13, wherein when the terminal (13) is fixed to the mating terminal (23), the cable (14) is electrically connected to the mating terminal (23) via the terminal (13).

15. 15. The connector of claim 14, wherein the fastener (12) passes through the terminal (13), and the fastener (12) is suitable for threaded connection to a nut in the mating terminal (23) or the mating connector (2) to secure the terminal (13) to the mating terminal (23).

16. A mounting hole (101) is formed in the housing (10), and the fastener (12) extends through the mounting hole (101) into the housing (10); The fastener (12) is a bolt (120) suitable for threaded connection to the nut in the mating terminal (23) or the mating connector (2); an end cap (121) that engages with the head of the bolt (120) and is disposed outside the housing (10), the end cap (121) being used to cover the mounting hole (101); Including, 16. The connector of claim 15, wherein when the bolts are tightened, the end cap covers the mounting opening of the housing and electrically contacts the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall of the mounting opening to prevent electromagnetic leakage.

17. a joint (121 a) suitable for engaging with an operating tool is formed on the upper part of the end cap (121), so that the bolt (120) can be tightened or loosened by the operating tool engaged with the joint (121 a); When the bolt (120) is not tightened, the end cap (121) is in a position that interferes with the detection component (11), so that the detection component (11) cannot rotate from the initial position to the detection position; 17. The connector of claim 16, wherein when the bolt (120) is tightened, the end cap (121) is in a position that does not interfere with the detection component (11), and the detection component (11) can rotate from the initial position to the detection position.

18. 18. The connector of claim 17, wherein a first insulator (122) is formed on the head of the bolt (120), and a second insulator (123) is formed inside the end cap (121), and the first insulator (122) engages with the second insulator (123) to engage the bolt (120) with the end cap (121), electrically insulating the bolt (120) from the end cap (121).

19. The fastener (12) further includes a seal ring (124) fitted to the second insulator (123), 19. The connector of claim 18, wherein when the bolts (120) are tightened, the seal ring (124) is radially compressed between the second insulator (123) and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall of the mounting port (101) to seal the mounting port (101).

20. The terminal (13) is a flat first terminal (13) welded to one end of the cable (14); a cylindrical second terminal (13) fixed to the first terminal (13); Including, 17. The connector of claim 16, wherein when the bolt (120) is tightened, an end face of the second terminal (13) electrically contacts an end face of the mating terminal (23) in the axial direction, thereby realizing an electrical connection between the terminal (13) and the mating terminal (23).

21. The connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, a mating connector (2) that fits into the connector (1); A connector assembly comprising:

22. The mating connector (2) is a mating housing (20) that fits into the housing (10) of the connector (1); a high-voltage mating module provided in the mating housing (20) for electrical connection to the high-voltage module of the connector (1); Including, 22. The connector assembly of claim 21, wherein the high voltage module is secured to the high voltage mating module for electrical connection thereto.

23. The high-voltage mating module includes a mating terminal (23) having a screw hole (3a) formed therein, 23. The connector assembly of claim 22, wherein the fastener (12) is screwed into the screw hole (23) of the mating terminal (23) to secure the terminal (13) and the mating terminal (23) to each other and establish an electrical connection between the high-voltage module and the high-voltage mating module.

24. The high voltage mating module is A mating terminal (23), A nut fixed to the mating terminal (23); Including, 23. The connector assembly of claim 22, wherein the fastener (12) passes through the mating terminal (23) and is screwed onto the nut to secure the terminal (13) and the mating terminal (23) to each other and establish an electrical connection between the high-voltage module and the high-voltage mating module.

Images