Fluid line connector and assembly with fixed detection features - Patents.com

Abstract

The fluid line connector and assembly are equipped to provide remote, fixed detection capabilities for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and subsequent automated, robotic, and / or autonomous maintenance. The fluid line connector includes a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, one or more actuator members, and one or more switches. The body includes a flow path for fluid flow. The RFID tag is capable of communicating with an RFID interrogator. The actuator member, when actuated, changes the state of the switch. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application 16 / 102256 (filed August 13, 2018), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 544057 (filed August 11, 2017).

[0002] Technical Field FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to connector assemblies used to connect fluid lines together, and more particularly to a method for detecting proper and complete engagement of connector assembly members. [Background technology]

[0003] background Connector assemblies, particularly those with quick connect features, are commonly used to connect fluid lines together in vehicle applications. An example is the cooling fluid lines of an electric vehicle. Visual means are often used during the design and construction of connector assemblies to ensure proper and complete engagement between members of the connector assembly for initial assembly, inspection and subsequent maintenance. Examples include a secondary latch that is closeable when fully engaged, and a window in one member of the connector assembly to view the engagement. These and other similar means require physical interaction and viewing by an assembler, inspector, or service provider to ensure proper and complete engagement of the members of the connector assembly. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] overview In one embodiment, the fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a flow path. The RFID tag is supported by the body. The actuator member is disposed adjacent to the flow path of the body. The actuator member is actuated upon insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. The switch is disposed adjacent to the actuator member. The state of the switch changes (i.e., from an open state to a closed state, or vice versa) upon insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector.

[0005] In another embodiment, the fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retaining member, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a flow path. An opening is provided in the body communicating with the flow path. The RFID tag is supported by the body. The retaining member is movable through the opening. The actuator member is disposed adjacent to the retaining member. The actuator member is actuated when the retaining member moves through the opening and abuts the actuator member. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. The switch is disposed adjacent to the actuator member. When actuated, the actuator member contacts the switch.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, the fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retaining member, a first actuator member, a first switch, a second actuator member, and a second switch. The body has a flow path. The RFID tag is supported by the body. The retaining member is supported by the body. The retaining member is receivable within a slot of another connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector. The first actuator member is disposed adjacent to the flow path of the body. The first actuator member is actuated by abutment between the first actuator member and the other connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector. The first switch is electrically connected to the RFID tag. When the first actuator member is actuated, a state of the first switch is changed. The second actuator member is disposed adjacent to the retaining member. The second actuator member is actuated by abutment between the retaining member and the second actuator member when the retaining member is moved along a direction perpendicular to a direction of insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector. The second switch is electrically connected to the RFID tag and when the second actuator member is actuated, the second switch changes state.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, the fluid line connector may include a body, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retention member, an actuator member, and a switch. The body has a flow path. The RFID tag is supported by the body. The retention member is supported by the body. The actuator member is disposed adjacent to the retention member. The actuator member is actuated when the retention member is moved along a direction perpendicular to a direction of insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector. The switch is electrically coupled to the RFID tag. The switch is disposed adjacent to the actuator member. When the actuator member is actuated, a state of the switch is changed.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fluid line connector assembly. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a partial exploded view of the fluid line connector assembly of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is an exploded view of a fluid line connector of the fluid line connector assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid line connector assembly of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fluid line connector. [Figure 6] 6 is a side view of an embodiment of a connector that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 6 is another perspective view of the fluid line connector of FIG. 5 assembled with another connector. [Figure 8] 6 is yet another perspective view of the fluid line connector of FIG. 5. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a side view of the fluid line connector of FIG. 5. [Figure 10] 6 is a side view of an embodiment of an actuator member and switch that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 5. [Figure 11] 6 is a top view of an embodiment of a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Detailed Description In this disclosure, several embodiments of fluid line connectors and assemblies are detailed. The connectors and assemblies of the present disclosure are designed and constructed to allow for detection of proper and complete fastening between connectors without the need for traditional secondary latches and windows that require some physical interaction and visibility by an assembler, inspector, or service provider at the site of fastening. Instead, the connectors and assemblies of the present disclosure include a means by which proper and complete fastening can be detected via a device located at a location remote from the fastening site of the connector, which device does not necessarily need to be in physical contact with the fastening site to detect. In this manner, the connectors and assemblies are equipped to perform initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and subsequent automatic, robotic, and / or autonomous maintenance (e.g., technology found in advanced automotive manufacturing facilities). Thus, the connectors and assemblies are useful in many applications, such as when an immediate power source is not readily available or easily within reach. Although the present disclosure describes the connectors and assemblies as automotive fluid lines, such as cooling fluid lines in electric vehicles, the connectors and assemblies include broader applications and are suitable for use in aircraft fluid lines, marine fluid lines, agricultural fluid lines, and other fluid lines.

[0011] The phrase "fully secured" and grammatical variations thereof, as used in this disclosure, refer to a secured condition in which a fluid-tight joint is established through the fluid line connector. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, the terms radial, axial, and circumferential and grammatical variations thereof refer to directions relative to the generally circular shape of the flow passage of the fluid line connector.

[0012] In different embodiments, depending on the application in which the fluid line connector and assembly is utilized, the fluid line connector and assembly may have various designs, structures, and components. FIGS. 1-4 show a first embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly 10. The fluid line connector and assembly 10 includes a fluid line connector 12 and a separate, separate connector 14. The fluid line connector 12 has a quick connect feature for easy connection and disconnection to the connector 14 and is used to connect the fluid lines of an automobile to each other. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector 12 is a female connector and the connector 14 is a male connector (often called a spigot). During installation, the connector 14 is inserted into a first end 16 of the fluid line connector 12 and a second end 18 of the fluid line connector 12 is coupled to a fluid line. The fluid line connector 12 has an elbow or L-shaped configuration as shown, but may have a straight or in-line configuration in other embodiments. The connector 14 may be an integral or monolithic part of a larger component, such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, among many possibilities, or may be an integral or monolithic part of a fluid line. With particular reference to Figures 2 and 4, the connector 14 includes a first flange 20 that projects radially outwardly from the body and a second flange 22 that is spaced from the first flange 20 along the axial direction and also projects radially outwardly from the body of the connector. The first flange 20 and the second flange 22 extend circumferentially about the connector 14. The connector 14 includes an exterior surface 24.

[0013] In this embodiment, the fluid line connector 12 includes a body 26, an O-ring 28, an insert 30, a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip 32, a switch 34, and an actuator member 36. Also, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 12 may include more, fewer, and / or different parts. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the body 26 has a flow passage 38 defined therein for allowing fluid to flow through the fluid line connector 12. The body 26 also has a compartment 40 for receiving and positioning the RFID chip 32. The compartment 40 is a separate space from the flow passage 38. A removable cover 42 can be formed to close the compartment 40 and enclose the RFID chip 32 in the compartment 40. The body 26 further includes a penetration 44 for positioning and seating the actuator member 36 within the body 26 during assembly. Upon removal of the actuator member 36 from the body 26 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3), the flow passage 38 and the compartment 40 communicate with each other via a penetration 44 that opens to both the flow passage 38 and the compartment 40. As perhaps best shown by FIG. 4, the O-ring 28 is received within the flow passage 38 and forms a seal between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. The insert 30 is also received within the flow passage 38 and retains the connector 14 when the connector 14 and the fluid line connector 12 are secured together. In the illustrated example, the insert 30 includes a pair of tangs 46 having hook ends 48 that hook onto the first flange 20 upon insertion of the connector 14 into the fluid line connector 12 with the appropriate overlap depth, as shown in FIG. 4. The insert 30 includes a first ring structure 50 and a second ring structure 52 that are connected by the tangs 46. The connector 14 can be removed from the fluid line connector 12 by pressing the pressing portions 54 on either side of the second ring structure 52 to release the trapped first flange 20 .

[0014] The RFID chip 32 aids in detecting proper and complete locking between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. The RFID chip 32 transmits and receives radio frequency (RF) signals to and from an RFID interrogator 56. The RFID interrogator 56 transmits an interrogation signal 58 to the RFID chip 32, which responds with an RF signal 60. In this manner, RFID technology is used to detect proper and complete locking. For example, in a manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator 56 can be installed along the assembly, inspection and / or installation manufacturing line to establish an engagement zone. When the fluid line connector and assembly 10 or a larger product is assembled, the RFID interrogator 56 can be positioned along the assembly, inspection and / or installation manufacturing line to establish an engagement zone. Communication When transported through the zone, the RFID interrogator 56 seeks to communicate with the RFID chip 32. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator 56 may form a communication zone that extends several meters from the RFID interrogator 56. In another setting, the RFID interrogator 56 may be a mobile device, such as a handheld device. The RF signal 60 may transmit various data and information to the RFID interrogator 56. In one embodiment, the transmitted information may be an indication of a securement state between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. For example, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are fully secured, the RF signal 60 may transmit the complete securement information as an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 56. The RFID interrogator 56 may process the transmitted information. The transmitted information may also include a serial number, an installation location, and the like.

[0015] 3 and 4, the RFID chip 32 is supported by the body 26. The support between the RFID chip 32 and the body 26 can be achieved in a variety of ways. In this embodiment, the RFID chip 32 is placed inside the compartment 40 and protected by the cover 42 when installed. In this case, the RFID chip 32 is not exposed to the fluid flowing through the flow path 38 and is shielded from external sources of contamination depending on the particular application. The RFID chip 32 includes an antenna 62 for exchanging (i.e., sending and receiving) RF signals and an integrated circuit (IC) 64 for storing data and information, among other possible functions.

[0016] The switch 34 interacts with the RFID chip 32 to activate and enable the RFID chip 32 to transmit and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator 56, and to deactivate and disable the RFID chip 32 to transmit and receive RF signals. The interaction can also affect the function of the RFID chip 32 in other ways. In the illustrated embodiment, the switch 34 electrically couples with the RFID chip 32 to enable and disable the antenna 62 to transmit and receive RF signals. In different embodiments, the switch 34 can have various designs, structures, and components, depending on the design and structure of the RFID chip and associated connector with which it interacts, as the case may be. For example, the switch 34 can be mechanical, electrical, or magnetic. In one embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the switch 34 has the form of a button 66 attached to the RFID chip 32. As best shown by FIG. 4, the button 66 is disposed between the RFID chip 32 and the actuator member 36 adjacent the penetration 44. When contacted and physically pressed, button 66 electrically couples with RFID chip 32 to activate antenna 62, allowing it to transmit and receive RF signals. Depending on the embodiment, button 66 can activate RFID chip 32 when pressed and released once, or can activate RFID chip 32 when contacted and pressed continuously for the duration of the contact and press. Conversely, button 66 can deactivate RFID chip 32 when pressed and released once, or can deactivate RFID chip 32 when not contacted and pressed continuously for the duration of the contact and press.

[0017] Additionally, in other embodiments, the switch 34 may be configured to activate or deactivate the RFID chip 32 using other means. With particular reference to FIG. 4, another embodiment uses a non-contact switch instead of a contact switch. The reed switch 68 is supported by the body 26 of the fluid line connector 12, and the magnetic component 70 is supported by the connector 14. Thus, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are fully secured, proximity between the reed switch 68 and the magnetic component 70 activates the RFID chip 32. Conversely, when not fully secured, distance between the reed switch 68 and the magnetic component 70 deactivates the RFID chip 32. In this embodiment, the actuator member 36 may not be provided.

[0018] The actuator member 36 contacts the switch 34 by receiving abutment during and when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are fully secured together. In different embodiments, depending, as the case may be, on the design and construction of the switch 34 and the associated connector, the actuator member 36 can have various designs, constructions and components. In the illustrated embodiment, with reference to Figs. 3 and 4, the actuator member 36 provides interworking between the connector 14 and the RFID chip 32 by extending between the flow passage 38 and the switch 34. The actuator member 36 is supported within the body 26 of the fluid line connector 12 and is disposed and seated within the penetration 44. In this case, one end of the actuator member 36 is located in the flow passage 38 and the other end is located in the switch 34. In the embodiment of Figs. 3 and 4, the actuator member 36 has the form of a cam member 72. The cam member 72 is a unitary member having a U-shaped profile with a base 74 and a pair of protrusions 76 depending from the base 74. The base 74 has a first action surface 78 for positioning on and contacting the switch 34. Each protrusion 76 has a second action surface 80 for positioning within the flow passage 38 and for abutting the connector 14 upon insertion into the fluid line connector 12. The second action surfaces 80 may be angled relative to the axis of the connector 14 to facilitate abutment with the connector 14 and induce displacement of the cam member 72.

[0019] When the fluid line connector and assembly 10 is in use, proper and complete locking can be detected via RFID technology. Upon insertion of the connector 14 into the body 26 from the first end 16, the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are connected. The first flange 20 abuts the cam member 72, displacing the cam member 72 upward (relative to the orientation of the drawing) and toward the button 66. The first flange 20 makes surface contact with the second operative surface 80 of the cam member 72. The cam member 72 is biased upward and contacts the button 66 via surface contact between the first operative surface 78 and the opposing surface of the button 66. In this embodiment, the cam member 72 maintains contact with the button 66 upon complete locking because the first flange 20 maintains abutment with the cam member 72.

[0020] In another embodiment, the fluid line connector 12 includes two or more RFID chips. With particular reference to FIG. 3, in addition to the first RFID chip 32, a second RFID chip 33 is provided. Similar to the first RFID chip 32, the second RFID chip 33 assists in detecting proper and complete locking between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14. In this embodiment, both the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33 transmit and receive RF signals to and from the RFID interrogator 56. For example, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are completely locked, the first RFID chip 32 can communicate complete locking information to the RFID interrogator 56. Conversely, when the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are not completely locked to each other, the second RFID chip 33 can communicate not completely locked information to the RFID interrogator 56. Also, when completely locked, the second RFID chip 33 does not communicate not completely locked information to the RFID interrogator 56. Furthermore, the first RFID chip 32 will not transmit fully locked information to the RFID interrogator 56 if they are not fully locked to each other. As in the previous embodiment, the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33 can transmit additional information such as serial numbers, installation locations, etc. Whether the first RFID chip 32 transmits fully locked information or the second RFID chip 33 transmits not fully locked information is partly managed by the switch 34. In this embodiment, the switch 34 interacts with both the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33 and is electrically coupled to both the first RFID chip 32 and the second RFID chip 33. The interaction and transmission of information can be achieved in different ways. For example, the switch 34 can activate the first RFID chip 32 and enable it to transmit fully locked information when it is contacted, and activate the second RFID chip 33 and enable it to transmit not fully locked information when it is not contacted. The presence or absence of a touch on the switch 34 can deactivate and disable the first RFID chip 32 or the second RFID chip 33 .

[0021] Hereinafter, with reference to Figs. 5-11, yet another embodiment of the fluid line connector and assembly 110 will be described. This embodiment has some similarities to the embodiment of Figs. 1-4. These similarities may not be repeated in the description of the embodiment of Figs. 5-11. The fluid line connector and assembly 110 includes a fluid line connector 112 and a separate, separate connector 114. The fluid line 112 has a quick-connect feature for easy connection and disconnection to the connector 114, and is used to connect automotive fluid lines and other fluid lines in other applications to each other. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector 112 is a female connector and the connector 114 is a male connector (often called a spigot). As best shown by Fig. 7, the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112. The fluid line connector 112 has an elbow or L-shaped configuration as shown, but may have a straight or in-line configuration in other embodiments. The connector 114 may be an integral or monolithic part of a larger component, such as a battery tray or heat exchanger in the vehicle, among many possibilities, or may be an integral or monolithic part of a fluid line.

[0022] With particular reference to FIG. 6, the connector 114 includes an extension 115 and a slot 117 at an end of the connector 114 that is inserted into the fluid line connector 112. As described below, the extension 115 interacts with an actuator member of the fluid line connector 112 and can have a variety of designs and configurations. The extension 115 extends axially beyond the insertion end of the connector 114 and projects radially outwardly along the body around the connector. As described below, the slot 117 receives a retaining member of the inserted fluid line connector 112. The slot 117 extends circumferentially around the connector 114. Additionally, the connector 114 includes a ramp 119. The ramp 119 presents an increasing diameter at the connector 114. When the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112, the sloped portion 119 is received in the fluid line connector 112 before the extension portion 115 and the slot 117 are received in the fluid line connector 112 (i.e., sequentially from right to left in the orientation of FIG. 6).

[0023] In the embodiment shown in Figures 5-11, the fluid line connector 112 includes a body 126, a retaining member 129, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 132, one or two switches 134, 135, and one or two actuator members 136, 137. Also, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 112 may include more, fewer, and / or different components. With reference to Figures 5 and 7-9, the body 126 has a flow passage 138 defined therein for allowing fluid to flow through the fluid line connector 112. The body 126 also has a compartment for receiving and positioning the RFID tag 132. A removable cover 142 is provided to close the compartment and enclose the RFID tag 132 in the compartment (the compartment and cover are only shown in Figures 5 and 7, but Figures 8 and 9 may include similar structure for receiving the RFID tag 132). 5, may be formed within the fluid line connector 112 and retained within the flow passage 138. Depending on its design and construction, the insert assembly 143 may facilitate mating, receiving, and / or sealing between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114. The insert assembly 143 may include, for example, an O-ring 145 and a support member 147, and may also include a bushing.

[0024] The body 126 has a structure that cooperates with the retaining member 129 to provide a quick connection function for the fluid line connector 112. Referring again to Figures 5 and 7-9, a first opening 149 and a second opening 151 are formed on opposite sides of the wall of the body and extend through the wall of the body to the flow passage 138. A first recess 153 and a second recess 155 are provided on the outside of the wall to temporarily position the retaining member 129 when the retaining member 129 is moved to be accommodated in the slot 117. A flange 157 protrudes radially outward from the wall of the body. When the retaining member 129 is accommodated in the slot 117, the flange 157 partially surrounds the retaining member 129, thereby preventing inadvertent movement of the retaining member 129.

[0025] Additionally, the body 126 has a structure configured to accommodate the assembly and installation of the actuator members 136, 137. The exact design and structure of the body may vary depending on the design and structure of the actuator members and switches used in the fluid line connector 112. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, with reference to Figs. 5, 8 and 9, a first socket 159 and a second socket 161 are disposed in the body 126. The first socket 159 receives and holds the first actuator member 136 and has the form of a slot in this embodiment. The first socket 159 is disposed at the inlet 163 of the flow passage 138 for locating the first actuator member 136 and is formed in the wall of the body near the inlet 163. To fully receive the first actuator member 136, the axial depth of the first socket 159 may be approximately equal to the length of the first actuator member 136. Similarly, the radial width of the first socket 159 may be approximately equal to the width of the first actuator member 136. The axial depth of the first socket 159 is generally aligned with the axis of the flow passage 138 at the inlet 163. Although these figures show a thickening of the body wall to accommodate the first actuator member 136 and mount the first socket 159, in other embodiments the accommodation may be more coherent and integrated into the body 126 to minimize the thickening.

[0026] With particular reference to FIG. 9, the second socket 161 receives and holds the second actuator member 137 and has the form of a slot in this embodiment. The second socket 161 is formed in the side of the wall of the body outside of the flow passage 138 to locate the second actuator member 137. The radial depth of the second socket 161 may be approximately equal to the length of the second actuator member 137 to fully receive the second actuator member 137. Similarly, the axial width of the second socket 161 may be approximately equal to the width of the second actuator member 137. The radial depth of the second socket 161 is approximately aligned with the radius of the flow passage 138 at the inlet 163. Although these figures show a bulging structure protruding from the side of the wall of the body to receive the second actuator member 137 and mount the second socket 161, in other embodiments the bulging may be more coherent and integrated into the body 126 to minimize the bulging. In FIG. 9, both the bottom wall 165 and a pair of side walls 167 depending from the bottom wall 165 partially enclose the second actuator member 137 and protect the second actuator member 137 from inadvertent contact from external components when the fluid line connector 112 is in use.

[0027] The retaining member 129 provides the quick connect feature of the fluid line connector 112 by interacting with the body 126. As a result, the connector 114 can be easily inserted and retained in, and released and removed from, the fluid line connector 112 as needed or desired. The retaining member 129 may have a variety of designs and configurations. With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 8, in this embodiment, the retaining member 129 is an inwardly biased integral stainless steel wire spring. The retaining member 129 has a first leg 169, a second leg 171, and a bridge 173 extending between the legs. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 may be substantially similar in shape and size. A first use position of the retaining member 129 is shown in FIGS. 5, 8, and 9. In the first use position, the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 are moved through the first opening 149 and the second opening 151, and the retaining member 129 is retained by the body 126. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 are partially located within the flow passage 138. In the first use position, the connector 114 is not inserted into the fluid line connector 112. The second use position of the retaining member 129 is not shown in the drawings. In the second use position, the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112, and the ramp 119 engages the first leg 169 and the second leg 171. This engagement urges the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 away from each other (i.e., radially outward), moving the bridge 173 radially outward. In some cases, the distal foot of the first leg 169 174(FIG. 9) is seated in the first recess 153, and similarly, the distal foot of the second leg 171 (not specifically shown) is seated in the second recess 155. Continued insertion of the connector 114 causes the retaining member 129 to reach a third use position. In the third use position, the retaining member 129 is received in the slot 117. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 can ride over the ramp 119 and snap back to the position of the first use position, but in the third use position, are received in the slot 117. The first leg 169 and the second leg 171 are moved through the first opening 149 and the second opening 151, respectively. By receiving the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 in the slot 117, the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are secured. By moving the retaining member 129 between the first, second and third use positions, the retaining member 129 is moved into the fluid line connector 112 generally transversely or perpendicularly to the insertion direction 179 (FIG. 5) of the connector 114. In other words, the movement of the retaining member is radially outward and inward, or upward and downward.

[0028] 11, the RFID tag 132 aids in the detection of proper and complete locking between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114. The RFID tag 132 communicates with an RFID interrogator or reader 156 (FIG. 7). The RFID interrogator 156 transmits an interrogation signal 158 to the RFID tag 132, which in turn communicates with the RFID interrogator 156 in response. In this manner, RFID technology is used to detect proper and complete locking. In a manufacturing facility, for example, the RFID interrogator 156 can be installed in the middle of an assembly, inspection and / or installation manufacturing line to establish an engagement zone. When the fluid line connector and assembly 110 or a larger product is assembled, the RFID interrogator 156 can be placed ... Communication As it is transported through the zone, the RFID interrogator 156 seeks to interact with the RFID tag 132. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator 156 may establish a communication zone that extends several meters from the RFID interrogator 156. In another setting, the RFID interrogator 156 may be a mobile device, such as a handheld device.

[0029] In this embodiment, the RFID tag 132 is a passive RFID tag, but may be another active RFID tag. The communication received from the RFID tag 132 may convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator 156. In one embodiment, the conveyed information may be an indication of a fastening state between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114. For example, if the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are fully fastened, the RFID tag 132 may convey the fully fastened information to the RFID interrogator 156 as an ON signal. Conversely, if the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are not fully fastened, the RFID tag 132 may convey the not fully fastened information to the RFID interrogator 156 as an OFF signal. The RFID interrogator 156 may process the conveyed information. The conveyed information may also include a serial number, an installation location, and the like. In embodiments in which the fluid line connector 112 includes both switches 134, 135 and both actuator members 136, 137, the RFID tag 132 can communicate the state of each of the actuator members 136, 137 based on the presence or absence of contact of the switches 134, 135. For example, the RFID tag 132 can communicate one or more of the following: i) Both actuator members 136, 137 are not actuated and therefore both the first and second switches 134, 135 are in an open state.

[0030] ii) the first actuator member 136 is not actuated, therefore the first switch 134 is in an open state, and the second actuator member 137 is actuated, therefore the second switch 135 is in a closed state.

[0031] iii) the first actuator member 136 is actuated, such that the first switch 134 is in a closed state, and the second actuator member 137 is not actuated, such that the second switch 135 is in an open state.

[0032] iv) Both the first and second actuator members 136, 137 are actuated and therefore both the first and second switches 134, 135 are in a closed state.

[0033] The RFID tag 132 is supported by the body 126. The support between the RFID tag 132 and the body 126 can be achieved in a variety of ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag 132 is placed inside the body compartment during installation and protected by the cover 142. In this case, the RFID tag 132 is not exposed to the fluid flowing through the flow path 138 and is shielded from external sources of contamination depending on the particular application. As shown in FIG. 11, the RFID tag 132 includes an antenna 162 and an integrated circuit (IC) 164 for storing data and information among other possible functions. The antenna 162 and the IC 164 may be carried on a substrate of the RFID tag 132. If both are provided, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 may be electrically coupled with the RFID tag 132 in series. Additionally, as discussed above with reference to FIG. 3, in the embodiments of FIGS. 5-11, the fluid line connector 112 may include two or more RFID tags.

[0034] As alternatives to the embodiment of Figures 5-11, the fluid line connector 112 may i) include only the first switch 134 and the first actuator member 136, or ii) include only the second switch 135 and the second actuator member 137, or iii) include both the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 and both the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137. Although the drawings illustrate the third alternative iii), one skilled in the art can easily conceive of the first alternative i) and the second alternative ii) by removing the other members from the illustrated fluid line connector 112.

[0035] With reference to FIG. 10, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 are electrically coupled to the RFID tag 132 to communicate their state to the RFID tag 132 based on the presence or absence of contact of the switches 134, 135 by the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137. The electrical coupling may be a wire 175 extending from the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 to the RFID tag 132. The wiring may establish a serial arrangement. In the case of the wire 175, the wire 175 may be guided through one or more grooves provided in the body 126 or may be embedded in the wall of the body, among other possibilities. The first switch 134 and the second switch 135 may have different shapes in different embodiments, depending on the design and structure of the RFID tag and associated actuator members with which they interact, as the case may be. In an embodiment including both switches 134, 135, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 may have different shapes. 10, the first switch 134 and the second switch 135 are buttons 166. When contacted and physically depressed by a particular actuator member, the button 166 is in a closed state. When not contacted and physically depressed by a particular actuator member, the button 166 is in an open state.

[0036] The first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 are actuated by abutment during and when the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are fully secured to each other, thereby depressing the first switch 134 and the second switch 135, respectively, thereby closing the switch. The first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 can have a variety of designs, structures, and components in different embodiments, depending on the design and construction of the particular switch and connector, as the case may be. In embodiments that include both actuator members 136, 137 and relative to each other, the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 can have different shapes.

[0037] 5, 8 and 10, in the illustrated embodiment, the first actuator member 136 is configured to easily detect the insertion of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112 along an axial direction. The first actuator member 136 is disposed adjacent the inlet 163 of the fluid passage 138. In general, the first actuator member 136 appears V-shaped, tilted to one side. A longitudinal extension 177 of the first actuator member 136 is disposed to generally coincide with a direction 179 of insertion of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112 during assembly. The longitudinal extension 177 is generally aligned with the axis of the fluid passage 138 at the inlet 163. The first actuator member 136 includes a base 181 and an appendage 183 depending from the base 181. The base 181 supports the first switch 134 and is inserted into and received by the first socket 159 of the body 126. The appendage 183 can move relative to the base 181 along an arcuate path 185 when the first actuator member 136 receives an abutment from the connector 114. As perhaps best shown by FIG. 5, the appendage 183 is partially suspended within the channel 138 prior to inserting the connector 114. As a result, the connector extension 115 can abut the appendage 183 when the connector 114 is inserted. The appendage 183 is held in an extended and suspended position when at rest and not abutting the extension 115. This constitutes an unactuated state of the first actuator member 136 and an open state of the corresponding first switch 134. When abutted, the appendage 183 moves towards the base 181 and contacts the first switch 134. This constitutes an actuated state of the first actuator member 136 and a closed state of the corresponding first switch 134.

[0038] On one side, the appendage 183 has an outer working surface 187 generally facing the flow passage 138 and the connector 114. On the opposite side, the appendage 183 has an inner working surface 189 generally facing the first switch 134. A protrusion 191 can extend from the inner working surface 189 so as to be in direct contact with the first switch 134. The appendage 183 includes a proximal end 193 at which the appendage 183 bends relative to the base 181, and a distal end 195. The proximal end 193 functions as a hinge and the distal end 195 constitutes the free end of the appendage 183. In the case of the first actuator member 136, the axis 197 of the hinge is arranged to be generally perpendicular to the direction 179 of insertion of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, and is therefore generally perpendicular to the axis of the flow passage 138 at the inlet 163.

[0039] In this embodiment, the second actuator member 137 has a similar design and structure to the first actuator member 136. With reference to FIG. 9, the second actuator member 137 is configured to easily detect the proper placement of the retaining member 129 and the reception of the legs 169, 171 in the slot 117. The second actuator member 137 is provided on the side of the wall of the body outside the flow passage 138. Furthermore, in other embodiments not described, the second actuator member does not have to be provided on the outside, but may be provided inside the body 126. Due to its location, the longitudinal extension 177 of the second actuator member 137 is arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction 179 of insertion of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, unlike the first actuator member 136. The longitudinal extension 177 is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the flow passage 138 at the inlet 163. The base 181 of the second actuator member 137 supports the second switch 135 and is inserted into and received in the second socket 161 of the body 126. When the retaining member 129 is in the first use position and the third use position, the appendage 183 is disposed outside the body and its distal end 195 is in contact with the distal foot 192. 174 In this way, when legs 169, 171 are moved within slots 117, 174The distal foot can actuate the second actuator member 137 by abutting the appendage 183. 174 The actuation of the second actuator member 137 by abutment from the distal foot is shown in FIG. 174 When the retaining member 129 is in the second use position, the appendage 183 is held in the extended position when it is not in contact with the distal foot 136. This constitutes a de-actuated state of the second actuator member 137 and an open state of the corresponding second switch 135. When the retaining member 129 is in the second use position, the appendage 183 is held in the extended position when it is not in contact with the distal foot 136. 174 Does not come into contact with the end foot 174 When abutted by the second actuator member 137, the appendage 183 moves towards the base 181 and contacts the second switch 135. This constitutes an actuated state of the second actuator member 137 and a corresponding closed state of the second switch 135. In the case of the second actuator member 137, the hinge axis 197 is oriented to generally coincide with the direction 179 of insertion of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, which in turn is generally aligned with the axis of the flow passage 138 at the inlet 163.

[0040] The embodiment of the fluid line connector 112 using both switches 134, 135 and both actuator members 136, 137 improves the accuracy of complete fixation and eliminates false negative detections. With reference to FIG. 6, a first bar graph 200 represents the state of the first switch 134 when the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 at a particular axial depth, and a second bar graph 202 represents the state of the second switch 135 when the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 at a similar axial depth. In FIG. 6, the first bar graph 200 and the second bar graph 202 represent the axial portion of the connector 114 that is positioned next to the connector 114 parallel to the axis of the connector 114 and inserted into the fluid line connector 112. In this embodiment, when the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 at a first axial insertion depth 204, the first switch 134 should be in an open state. When the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 at the first axial insertion depth 206, the second switch 135 may be in a closed state. Also, at the second axial insertion depth 208, the first switch 134 may be in a closed state. As shown, at the second axial insertion depth 208, the retaining member 129 is engaged with the ramp 119. At the second axial insertion depth 210, the second switch 135 should be in an open state. Also, at the second axial insertion depth 210, the ramp 119 is engaged with the retaining member 129. Finally, at the third axial insertion depth 212, the first switch 134 should be in a closed state. At the third axial insertion depth 214, the second switch 135 should be in a closed state. At the third axial insertion depth 212, 214, the first leg 169 and the second leg 171 are received in the slot 117 and the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are fully secured to one another. Also, at the third axial insertion depth 212, 214, the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 are actuated and contact the first switch 134 and the second switch 135.In this embodiment, the act of inserting the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112 causes the first switch 134 to go from an open state to a closed state and the second switch 135 to go from a closed state to an open state and then back to a closed state. The second switch 135, in a sense, operates as a momentary switch. At the time the first switch 134 first enters (or can at least be in) a closed state at the second axial insertion depth 208, the second switch 135 is simultaneously in an open state at the second axial insertion depth 210, eliminating false negative detections. In other words, at least one of the first switch 134 or the second switch 135 remains in an open state until the third axial insertion depth 212, 214.

[0041] Additionally, additional alternatives are possible to the embodiment of Figures 5-11. In one alternative, contact from the first actuator member 136 and the second actuator member 137 changes the state of the corresponding first switch 134 and second switch 135. For example, the contact causes the switch to move from an initial open state to a subsequent closed state, or conversely, causes the switch to move from an initial closed state to a subsequent open state. In another alternative, the first switch 134 can receive an abutment from the connector 114, and the first actuator member 136 receives the abutment indirectly through the first switch 134 and is indirectly moved by the abutment.

[0042] It should be noted that the above description is not a definition of the invention, but an exemplary description of one or more preferred embodiments of the invention. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed in this disclosure, but is defined by the following claims. Furthermore, expressions contained in the above description should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or the definition of terms used in the claims, except where a term or phrase is expressly defined above with respect to a specific embodiment. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All other embodiments, changes and modifications are within the scope of the appended claims.

[0043] As used in this disclosure and claims, the terms "for example," "for instance," "such as," and the verbs "comprising," "having," "including," and other variations, when used in conjunction with a list of one or more components or other items, should each be construed as open-ended. The list should not be considered to exclude other additional components or items. Other terms should be construed to use their broadest reasonable meaning unless used in a context requiring a different interpretation.

Claims

1. 1. A fluid line connector comprising: A body having a flow path; a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag) carried by the body; a first actuator member disposed adjacent the flow passage of the body, the first actuator member being actuated upon insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector; a first switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and disposed adjacent to the first actuator member, a state of the first switch being changed upon insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector, the fluid line connector further comprising: a retaining member supported by the body; a second actuator member disposed adjacent to the retention member, the second actuator member being actuated when the retention member is moved along a direction perpendicular to a direction of insertion of the another connector into the fluid line connector; a second switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and disposed adjacent to the second actuator member, the second actuator member contacting the second switch when actuated; A fluid line connector, wherein the RFID tag is capable of communicating a state of each of the first actuator member and the second actuator member based on the presence or absence of contact of the first switch and the second switch.

2. the first actuator member is actuated by contact with the other connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the first actuator member, when actuated, changes the state of the first switch by contacting the first switch.

3. 3. The fluid line connector of claim 2, wherein the first actuator member, when actuated, changes the first switch to a closed state by contacting the first switch.

4. a socket disposed in the body adjacent the flow passage; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the first actuator member is received and retained within the socket.

5. the first actuator member is not actuated when the other connector is not inserted into the fluid line connector; 2. The fluid line connector of claim 1, wherein the first switch does not change state when the first actuator member is not actuated.

6. the first actuator member includes an outer operating surface disposed within the flow passage of the body; 2. The fluid line connector of claim 1, wherein the other connector actuates the first actuator member by abutting the outer operating surface when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector.

7. the first actuator member includes a base; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the base supports the first switch.

8. the first actuator member includes a longitudinal extension; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the longitudinal extension is disposed generally in line with a direction in which the further connector is inserted into the fluid line connector.

9. the first actuator member includes a base and an appendage depending from the base; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the appendage moves relative to the base while the first actuator member is actuated.

10. the first actuator member includes an appendage having a hinged proximal end and a free distal end; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the appendage moves about the proximal end while the first actuator member is actuated.

11. the first actuator member includes an appendage having a hinged end; the hinged end includes an axis, the appendage moving about the axis while the first actuator member is actuated; The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the axis is disposed substantially perpendicular to a direction of insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector.

12. the first actuator member includes an inner operating surface generally facing the first switch; 2. The fluid line connector of claim 1, wherein the inner operating surface contacts the first switch when the first actuator member is actuated by inserting the other connector into the fluid line connector.

13. The fluid line connector of claim 1 , wherein the first switch is a button.

14. 1. A fluid line connector assembly comprising: The fluid line connector of claim 1 ; an RFID interrogator in communication with the RFID tag of the fluid line connector; and a separate connector; The fluid line connector assembly, wherein the other connector includes an extension for actuating the first actuator member by surface contact with the first actuator member.

15. 1. A fluid line connector comprising: A main body includes a flow path and an opening provided in the main body and connected to the flow path; a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag) carried by the body; a retention member movable through the opening in the body; a second actuator member disposed adjacent to the retaining member, the second actuator member being actuated by movement of the retaining member through the opening and abutment by the retaining member to hold the second actuator member in an actuated state; a second switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and disposed adjacent to the second actuator member, the second actuator member contacting the second switch when actuated; When no other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the retaining member abuts the second actuator member, and the second actuator member is actuated; When the inclined portion of the other connector is engaged with the retaining member, the retaining member is not in contact with the second actuator member, and the second actuator member is not actuated; When the retaining member is received in the slot of the other connector, the retaining member abuts against the second actuator member again, and the second actuator member is actuated; The fluid line connector further comprises a first actuator member disposed adjacent to the flow passage of the body, the first actuator member being actuated by abutment from another connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and disposed adjacent to the first actuator member, the first actuator member contacting the first switch when actuated; A fluid line connector, wherein the RFID tag is capable of communicating a state of each of the first actuator member and the second actuator member based on the presence or absence of contact of the first switch and the second switch.

16. A socket is provided in the body; The fluid line connector of claim 15 , wherein the second actuator member is received and retained within the socket.

17. the second actuator member includes an outer application surface; 16. The fluid line connector of claim 15, wherein the retaining member actuates the second actuator member by abutting the outer surface when the retaining member is moved through the opening in the body.

18. the second actuator member includes a base; The fluid line connector of claim 15 , wherein the base supports the second switch.

19. the second actuator member includes a longitudinal extension; 16. The fluid line connector of claim 15, wherein the longitudinal extension is disposed substantially perpendicular to a direction in which another connector is inserted into the fluid line connector.

20. the second actuator member includes a base and an appendage depending from the base; The fluid line connector of claim 15 , wherein the appendage moves relative to the base while the second actuator member is actuated.

21. the second actuator member includes an appendage having a hinged proximal end and a free distal end; The fluid line connector of claim 15 , wherein the appendage moves about the proximal end while the second actuator member is actuated.

22. the second actuator member includes an appendage having a hinged end; the hinged end includes an axis, the appendage moving about the axis while the second actuator member is actuated; The fluid line connector of claim 15 , wherein the axis is positioned generally in line with a direction for inserting another connector into the fluid line connector.

23. the second actuator member includes an inner operating surface generally facing the second switch; 16. The fluid line connector of claim 15, wherein the inner working surface contacts the second switch when the second actuator member is actuated.

24. The fluid line connector of claim 15 , wherein the second switch is a button.

25. The holding member includes a pair of legs, 16. The fluid line connector of claim 15, wherein one of the pair of legs actuates the second actuator member by abutting against the second actuator member.

26. 1. A fluid line connector assembly comprising: The fluid line connector of claim 15; an RFID interrogator in communication with the RFID tag of the fluid line connector.

27. 1. A fluid line connector comprising: A body having a flow path; a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag) carried by the body; a retaining member supported by the body, the retaining member being receivable in a slot of another connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first actuator member disposed adjacent to the flow passage of the body, the first actuator member being actuated by abutment from the other connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag, the first switch changing state when the first actuator member is actuated; a second actuator member disposed adjacent to the retaining member, the second actuator member being actuated by contact with the retaining member when the retaining member is moved along a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a second switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag, the second switch changing state when the second actuator member is actuated; A fluid line connector, wherein the RFID tag is capable of communicating a state of each of the first actuator member and the second actuator member based on the presence or absence of contact of the first switch and the second switch.

28. the first actuator member, when actuated, contacts the first switch; 28. The fluid line connector of claim 27, wherein the second actuator member, when actuated, contacts the second switch.

29. At least one of the first actuator member or the second actuator member includes a base and an appendage depending from the base; 30. The fluid line connector of claim 27, wherein the appendage moves relative to the base during actuation of at least one of the first actuator member or the second actuator member.

30. the first actuator member includes a first longitudinal extension; the second actuator member includes a second longitudinal extension; 28. The fluid line connector of claim 27, wherein the first longitudinal extension is disposed substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal extension.

31. 1. A fluid line connector assembly comprising:

28. The fluid line connector of claim 27; an RFID interrogator in communication with the RFID tag of the fluid line connector.

32. 1. A fluid line connector comprising: A body having a flow path; a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag) carried by the body; a retaining member supported by the body; a second actuator member disposed adjacent to the retention member, the second actuator member being actuated when the retention member is moved along a direction perpendicular to a direction of insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector; a second switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag and disposed adjacent to the second actuator member, the second switch changing state when the second actuator member is actuated; When no other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector, the retaining member abuts the second actuator member, and the second actuator member is actuated; When the inclined portion of the other connector is engaged with the retaining member, the retaining member is not in contact with the second actuator member, and the second actuator member is not actuated; When the retaining member is received in the slot of the other connector, the retaining member abuts against the second actuator member again, and the second actuator member is actuated; the fluid line connector further comprising a first actuator member disposed adjacent the flow passage of the body, the first actuator member being actuated by abutment from the other connector when the other connector is inserted into the fluid line connector; a first switch electrically coupled to the RFID tag, the first switch changing state when the first actuator member is actuated; A fluid line connector, wherein the RFID tag is capable of communicating a state of each of the first actuator member and the second actuator member based on the presence or absence of contact of the first switch and the second switch.

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