Fluid Line Quick Connector with Retainer and Data Matrix

Abstract

The fluid line quick connector includes a retainer and a data matrix, the retainer adapted to move over the spigot when the spigot is inserted into the fluid line quick connector, the data matrix being obstructed by the retainer when the spigot is not inserted into the fluid line quick connector and being exposed when the spigot is inserted into the fluid line quick connector, the obstruction preventing proper reading and scanning of the data matrix, and the exposure allowing proper reading and scanning of the data matrix.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 249,800, filed September 29, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Technical Field]

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to quick connectors used to join fluid lines and methods for verifying that a proper connection has been made by the quick connector. [Background technology]

[0003] Quick connectors are commonly used in vehicle applications to join fluid lines or to join fluid and component lines. Quick connectors establish a fluid-tight connection. An example is the battery coolant line in electric and hybrid vehicles. Other examples exist in automotive applications, as well as non-automotive applications such as industrial manufacturing, aerospace, marine, and agriculture. Quick connectors are often visually inspected during initial assembly, inspection, and subsequent servicing to ensure proper connections are made. These inspections typically require physical interaction and visual inspection by assemblers, inspectors, and mechanics to ensure the intended connection is established. In other words, the means of inspection are often human-dependent. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, the fluid line quick connector can include a housing, a data matrix, and a retainer. The housing has a main passage and one or more windows. The retainer is disposed within the window. When a spigot is not inserted into the main passage of the housing, a portion of the retainer partially or more obscures the data matrix. When the spigot is fully inserted into the main passage of the housing, the portion of the retainer does not partially or more obscure the data matrix.

[0005] In another embodiment, a fluid line quick connector includes a housing, a slider, a data matrix, and a retainer. The slider is movable from a first position to a second position. The first and second positions are relative to the housing. The data matrix is ​​movable with the slider. The retainer has a portion that partially or more obscures the data matrix when the slider is in the first position. The partial or more obscuration of the data matrix by the portion of the retainer is absent when the slider is in the second position.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a fluid line quick connector includes a housing, a slider, a data matrix, and a retainer. The housing has a main passage, a slot, and one or more windows. The slider is received in the slot. The slider is movable within the slot from a first position to a second position. The slider has a detent. The data matrix is ​​carried by the slider. The retainer is disposed within the window. When the slider is in the first position, a portion of the retainer partially or more obscures the data matrix. When the slider is in the second position, the portion of the retainer does not partially or more obscure the data matrix. When the slider is in the first position, abutment between the retainer and the slider detent prevents movement of the slider in one or more directions. Also, when the slider is in the second position, abutment between the retainer and the slider detent prevents movement of the slider in one or more directions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fluid line quick connector showing a retainer in a first position and a second position. [Figure 2] 1 is another perspective view of the quick connector showing the retainer in a first position and a second position. [Figure 3] 1 is a side view of the quick connector showing the retainer in a first and second position. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a top view of the quick connector showing the retainer in a first and second position. FIG. [Figure 5] 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the quick connector taken along the line 5-5 of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of the quick connector taken along the line 6-6 of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 10A-10C are perspective views of an embodiment of a retainer that can be used with the quick connector. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 illustrates a first position of the retainer relative to the quick connector. [Figure 8B] 10A and 10B show the subsequent position of the retainer relative to the quick connector. [Figure 8C] FIG. 10 illustrates a second position of the retainer relative to the quick connector. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B show another embodiment of the quick connector. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the quick connector. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is another perspective view of the quick connector of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 11 is an enlarged view of an embodiment of a slider of the quick connector of FIG. 10. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is another enlarged view of the slider. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a spigot. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a close-up view of an embodiment of a portion of the housing that interacts with the slider. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is another enlarged view of a portion of the housing. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a close-up view of an embodiment of a slot that can be used with a slider. [Figure 18] FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. [Figure 21] 11 shows the quick connector of FIG. 10 without a spigot inserted therein and with the slider in a first position. [Figure 22] 11 shows the quick connector of FIG. 10 with the spigot inserted therein and the slider in a second position. [Figure 23] 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the quick connector of FIG. 10 with the spigot inserted therein and the slider in a second position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An embodiment of a fluid line quick connector (hereinafter, "quick connector") including a retainer and a data matrix is ​​described and illustrated in detail herein. In addition to its retention function, the retainer interacts with the data matrix by obscuring or exposing the data matrix during use of the quick connector, as described in detail below. The quick connector and its data matrix enable determination of proper connection via a device located remotely from the fastening site of the quick connector, which device does not necessarily need to physically contact the fastening site for determination. Thus, connection detection and verification can be performed remotely, possibly in addition to other means of physical and visual verification. The quick connector's remote verification capabilities support initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and at least partially automated and robotized subsequent servicing techniques. While this description illustrates the quick connector in the context of automotive fluid lines, such as battery coolant lines in electric and hybrid vehicles, the quick connector has broader applications and is suitable for use with industrial production fluid lines, aviation fluid lines, marine fluid lines, agricultural fluid lines, and other fluid lines.

[0009] Additionally, unless otherwise specified, the terms radial, axial, and circumferential, and their grammatical variations, refer to directions relative to the generally circular and cylindrical shape of the quick connector and its components, as shown in the figures. In Figure 3, axial forward F and axial rearward R are shown as references to these directions as used herein.

[0010] Quick connectors can have a variety of designs, structures, and components in different embodiments, depending on the application in which the quick connector will be installed, the associated spigot, hose, and / or tubing, and the desired attributes of the connection and joint, among other possible factors. Figures 1-8C show one embodiment of a fluid line quick connector 10. The quick connector 10 has a quick-connect function for connecting and disconnecting with a spigot 12, which can be connected to, for example, a rubber hose or plastic tubing. When the quick connector 10 and spigot 12 are combined, they form a larger fluid line quick connector assembly 14. The spigot 12 is a separate and independent component that is inserted into the first open end 16 of the quick connector 10. In this sense, the quick connector 10 is female and the spigot is male. The end shape of the spigot inserted into the quick connector 10 can have different designs and structures depending on the application. With particular reference to Figures 5 and 6, in this example, the spigot 12 has a sloped surface 18 away from the end of the spigot. The angled surface 18 expands in diameter throughout its axial extent, from a position proximal to the end of the spigot to a position distal to the end of the spigot. The distal end of the angled surface 18 includes a groove 20. The groove 20 can receive a retainer (described below) for securing the quick connector 10 and the spigot 12 together. Additionally, a pair of keying ridges 22 protrude radially outward from the spigot body and function as indexing members for circumferentially positioning the spigot 12 and the quick connector 10 relative to one another during insertion. The keying ridges 22 are received in complementary internal grooves (described below) in the quick connector 10. In this example, the keying ridges 22 are circumferentially spaced 180° apart from one another. Additionally, the spigot 12, in one embodiment, can be part of a larger component of an associated vehicle. Nevertheless, in other embodiments, the spigot 12 can have other end shapes, and, for example, can have other types of indexing features in different locations, or even none at all.

[0011] While the quick connector 10 is shown in an in-line configuration, other embodiments may have an elbow or L-shape. Referring more generally to FIGS. 1 through 6 , in this embodiment, the quick connector 10 includes a housing 24, a data matrix 26, and a retainer 28, although in other embodiments, the quick connector 10 may have more, fewer, and / or different components. The housing 24 serves as the body of the quick connector 10 and is typically constructed of a plastic material. The housing 24 has an exterior surface 30. A main passageway 32 is defined completely through the housing 24 to allow fluid flow through the quick connector 10 during use. The main passageway 32 extends axially through the housing 24 between a first open end 16 and an opposite second open end 34. The main passageway 32 accommodates insertion of the spigot 12. An interior surface 36 partially or more specifically defines the main passageway 32. A pair of grooves 38 are present in the main passageway 32 and adjacent the first open end 16. Groove 38 receives insertion of keying ridge 22. One or more O-rings, spacers and / or bushings (none shown) may be positioned within main passage 32 to form a seal and facilitate securement of quick connector 10 and spigot 12 when they are mated.

[0012] Additionally, the housing 24 has windows and ribs for cooperation with the retainer 28. In this embodiment, a first window 40 is present on one side of the housing 24, and a second window 42 is present on the opposite side of the housing 24. The first and second windows 40, 42 function as passageways to receive the legs (described below) of the retainer 28 during use of the quick connector 10. The first and second windows 40, 42 are defined entirely through the housing 24 and are surrounded at their peripheries by the housing wall. The first and second windows 40, 42 open to the main passage 32 and have circumferential extensions located adjacent the first open end 16 that constitute their primary extensions. In this embodiment, each of the first and second windows 40, 42 has a forward region 44 and a rearward region 46. The forward and rearward regions 44, 46 are established by the axial and circumferential areas of the larger first and second windows 40, 42. With particular reference to Figures 3, 8A and 8C, the legs of retainer 28 are located at, near or pass through forward region 44 when retainer 28 is in its first position, and the legs of the retainer are similarly located at, near or pass through rearward region 46 when retainer 28 is in its second position.

[0013] The quantity, location, and purpose of the ribs can vary in different embodiments. In this embodiment, and with particular reference to FIGS. 1-4 , there are four ribs: a first rib 48, a second rib 50, a third rib 52, and a fourth rib 54. The first rib 48 helps maintain the position of the retainer 28 when the retainer 28 is in the first position and helps prevent inadvertent contact and undesired disengagement of the retainer 28 during shipping or handling of the part. The first rib 48 interacts with a bridge portion (described below) of the retainer 28. The first rib 48 projects radially outward from the housing outer surface 30, extending radially outward beyond the radially outer position of the retainer 28 when in the first position and when in the second position. Additionally, the first rib 48 is located immediately axially rearward of the data matrix 26. Meanwhile, the second rib 50 helps maintain the position of the retainer 28 when the retainer 28 is in the second position and helps protect the retainer 28 from inadvertent contact or unwanted disengagement during use. The second rib 50 projects radially outward from the housing outer surface 30 and extends radially outward a smaller distance than the first rib 48. The second rib 50 is spaced axially rearward of the first rib 48.

[0014] Similar to the first rib 48, the third and fourth ribs 52, 54 help maintain the position of the retainer 28 when it is in the first position and help protect the retainer 28 from inadvertent contact or unwanted disengagement during shipping and handling of the part. The third rib 52 projects radially outward from the circumferential end of the first window 40 relative to the first rib 48, and the fourth rib 54 projects radially outward from the circumferential end of the second window 42 relative to the first rib 48. The third and fourth ribs 52, 54 interact with the legs of the retainer. To facilitate this interaction, a portion of the third rib 52 can be suspended from the first window 40, and a portion of the fourth rib 54 can be suspended from the second window 42. Note that in other embodiments, including the embodiment of FIG. 9, the third and fourth ribs 52, 54 are not required or may be omitted. Additionally, a cover, sub-housing, or some other structure 56 may be provided on each side of the housing 24 to help protect the legs (described below) of the retainer 28 from inadvertent contact or unwanted disengagement when in the second position and to allow confirmation of movement of the retainer to the second position.

[0015] The data matrix 26 aids in the detection and verification of the intended proper connection, or lack thereof, between the quick connector 10 and the spigot 12. The data matrix 26 can only be properly read and scanned by a device when the retainer 28 is moved from the first position. Without the retainer 28 in its first position or in close proximity to the first position, the device cannot properly read and scan the data matrix 26. If the data matrix 26 can be read, it can serve as an indication that the retainer 28 is in the second position and ultimately a connection has been made between the quick connector 10 and the spigot 12. Conversely, if the data matrix 26 cannot be read, it serves as an indication that the retainer 28 is in the first position and ultimately a connection has not been made between the quick connector 10 and the spigot 12. Furthermore, the detection and verification provided by the data matrix 26 can supplement other means of physical and visual verification provided by the quick connector 10, depending on the particular embodiment. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, connection verification is also performed by observing the position of the retainer 28 on the housing 24 in applications where such observation is possible. Additional verification via the data matrix 26 may be desirable and useful in applications where making the intended connection is more important and / or where the quick connector 10 is not easily accessible for verification purposes (e.g., an enclosure, a closed battery pack in an electric vehicle). Furthermore, the device can read or scan the data matrix 26 physically separate from the quick connector 10 and can do so without physically contacting the quick connector 10. The device can be a data matrix scanner or reader. For example, in a manufacturing environment, the device can be located during assembly, inspection, and / or installation production lines, as well as elsewhere. The device can also be a handheld device carried by an operator, assembler, or inspector.

[0016] The data matrix 26 can have a variety of forms in different embodiments. For example, the data matrix 26 may be a two-dimensional, machine-readable code consisting of a black and white pattern. Examples include quick response (QR) codes, barcodes, shot codes, color codes, visual codes, and many other codes. In this regard, the term "data matrix" is used broadly herein to cover all of these forms. Depending on its form, the data matrix 26 can encode information and data in letters and / or numbers and can convey a part designation, an installation location designation, an installation date designation, or some other information. The data matrix 26 may be marked on a label or other substrate and then glued in place, or may be marked directly on the quick connector 10 at a predetermined location, or may be marked on the part by a method such as printing or laser etching. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-9, the data matrix 26 is present on the exterior surface 30 of the housing 24 and is generally accessible from the exterior of the housing. The data matrix 26 is located adjacent to and near the first open end 16. With respect to the first rib 48, the data matrix 26 is located axially forward of the first rib 48. In fact, as best shown in FIG. 8C , the data matrix 26 can span the entire axial length of the first rib 48. The data matrix 26 and the first rib 48 can be adjacent at their intersections. To facilitate interaction with the retainer 28, in this embodiment, the data matrix 26 resides on a raised platform 58 of the housing 24. The platform 58 projects radially outward from its perimeter at the housing's outer surface 30. The platform 58 has a generally planar platform surface 60 for receiving the placement or placement of the data matrix 26. Additionally, raised ridge features 62 can extend circumferentially from opposing sides of the platform 58. When the retainer 28 is in the first position, a bridge portion of the retainer rests on the ridge features 62.Finally, during movement of retainer 28 from the first position to the second position, and at other times, data matrix 26 remains stationary on platform 58 relative to housing 24, and platform 58 remains stationary - i.e., unlike previous constructions, exposure of data matrix 26 in the embodiments of Figures 1 to 9 does not depend on its own movement or displacement.

[0017] The retainer 28 continues to hold the spigot 12 when the spigot 12 is properly inserted into the quick connector 10 and the retainer 28 is in the second position. The quick connector 10 and the spigot 12 are secured together via the retainer 28. In contrast to conventional quick connectors, the retainer 28 also serves to partially or more obscure the data matrix 26 from reading and scanning when the retainer 28 is in the first position, and expose the data matrix 26 for suitable reading and scanning when the retainer 28 is in the second position. The reading and scanning of the data matrix 26 is coordinated with the movement of the retainer 28 between its first and second positions.

[0018] The retainer 28 can have various configurations in different embodiments. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 9, and with particular reference to FIG. 7, the retainer 28 is in the form of a wire spring 64. Overall, the retainer 28 is one-piece, constructed of a metallic material, and generally resembles a U-shape. The retainer 28 has a bridge portion 66, a first leg portion 68, a second leg portion 70, and a pair of feet 72. The bridge portion 66 can remain outside the housing and outside the main passageway 32 during use, providing a structure for disassembling and removing the retainer 28. The bridge portion 66 is axially forward of the first rib 48 when the retainer 28 is in the first position, and conversely, is axially rearward of the first rib 48 when the retainer 28 is in the second position. When axially forward of the first rib 48, the bridge portion 66 physically overlaps, interrupts, and blocks a portion or more of the data matrix 26. The blocked portion, according to this embodiment, is the lateral extent and portion of the data matrix 26. The bridge portion 66 and the first rib 48 have generally coincident circumferential positions during assembly and use, as shown. The first and second legs, or prongs 68, 70, are integral extensions of the bridge portion 66 and extend from opposite sides of the bridge portion 66. The first and second legs 68, 70 are mirror images of each other. The first leg 68 resides within and can pass through the first window 40, and the second leg 70 resides within and can pass through the second window 42. The first and second legs 68, 70 have a degree of resilience, allowing them to flex radially outward and return radially inward, thereby securing them in the groove 20 of the spigot 12. The foot 72 is an integral extension of and extends from the first and second legs 68, 70. The feet 72 form the distal ends of the retainer 28 .

[0019] During assembly and installation and use, the retainer 28 has specific positions and movements that act to conceal or expose the data matrix 26 in coordination with the insertion of the spigot 12. Figures 8A through 8C illustrate a series of positions and movements of the retainer 28. In Figure 8A, the retainer 28 is in a first or intermediate position. This may be the state of the retainer 28 while the quick connector 10 is being shipped to a manufacturing facility, for example. The spigot 12 is not yet inserted. The retainer 28 is held in place in the housing 24 and can remain in that state until the spigot 12 is inserted. In the first position, the first and second legs 68, 70 are exposed within the main passageway 32. Again, the bridge portion 66 physically obstructs and blocks the readability and scannability of the data matrix 26. As shown by Figure 8A, the bridge portion 66 partially obstructs and blocks the data matrix 26 in the first position. Testing has shown that this partial occlusion is effective - the camera was unable to read the data matrix when attempting to read it from a direction perpendicular to the data matrix (i.e., from the top view of FIG. 4) and when attempting to read it from a direction at an angle to the perpendicular. Note that in other embodiments, bridge portion 66 may more completely or entirely occlude or block data matrix 26. Furthermore, the first position is represented by arrow F in FIGS. 1-6.

[0020] In FIG. 8B, the retainer 28 is being moved from the first position to the second position. The spigot 12 is partially inserted into the housing 24 and the main passageway 32. The spigot's angled surface 18 engages the first and second legs 68, 70 surface-to-surface. The first and second legs 68, 70 are sequentially urged radially outward and out of the main passageway 32, displacing the retainer 28 radially outward from its previous position. The bridge portion 66 lifts off and separates from the data matrix 26. The bridge portion 66 displaces radially outward from the first rib 48, and similarly, the first and second legs 68, 70 displace radially outward from the third and fourth ribs 52, 54. Engagement by the ramped surface 18 also causes axial rearward movement and displacement of the retainer 28 relative to the housing 24 and relative to the first, third and fourth ribs 48, 52, 54. This axial rearward movement and displacement is consistent with the insertion direction of the spigot 12 in the quick connector 10.

[0021] Finally, in FIG. 8C, the retainer 28 is in a second or attached position. The spigot 12 is now fully inserted. The first and second legs 68, 70 are received within the groove 20 and remain therein, holding the quick connector 10 and spigot 12 secured together. The bridge portion 66 is positioned axially rearward of the data matrix 26 in the second position, fully exposing the data matrix 26 for proper reading and scanning. Movement to the second position unobstructs and unblocks the data matrix 26. Further, the second position is represented by arrow S in FIGS. 1-6. Movement of the retainer 28 from the first position to the second position is instantaneous, with the retainer 28 effectively flipping the first, third, and fourth ribs 48, 52, and 54 up to reach the second position. In this embodiment, the act of revealing the data matrix 26 lacks the direct and localized involvement of the keying ridges 22 of the spigot 12, and instead primarily involves only interaction with and engagement by the spigot's angled surfaces 18. In other words, exposing the data matrix 26 for reading and scanning occurs independently of the spigot's keying ridges or other indexing members, preparing the quick connector 10 for use with spigots having different types of such structures or no such structures at all.

[0022] Another embodiment of the quick connector 10 is shown in FIG. 9. In this embodiment, the housing 24 is different. The first and second windows 40, 42 are partially defined by a forward side 74 that is inclined relative to a rearward side 76. The forward side 74 is inclined axially forward relative to the radial direction in FIG. 9. This arrangement allows the retainer 28 to be seated in a forward axial position and aligned with the radial direction in the second position. Furthermore, compared to the previous embodiment, in FIG. 9, the third and fourth ribs 52, 54 are absent, and only the first rib 48 is provided to help maintain the position of the retainer 28 in the first position. Therefore, to move from the first position to the second position, the retainer 28 in the embodiment of FIG. 9 only needs to effectively bounce off the first rib 48.

[0023] Yet another embodiment of the quick connector 110 is shown in Figures 10 through 23. This embodiment exhibits similarities to the embodiment of Figures 1 through 9, which will not be repeated here. Indeed, corresponding parts and components are similarly numbered, but with the numerals 1xx to designate the embodiment of Figures 10 through 23. Referring initially to Figures 14 and 23, one of the keying ridges 22 of the spigot 12 serves to interact with a slider (described below) of the quick connector 110 by facilitating movement of the slider through insertion of an end shape of the spigot into the quick connector 110. This keying ridge 22 (also referred to as a key or protrusion 78) contacts and facilitates movement of the slider upon insertion of the spigot 12 into the quick connector 110. The protrusions 78 may be different in design, size and / or structure compared to other keying ridges 22 that are not intended to interact with the slider, and their exact design, size and / or structure may be dictated in part or in part by the design, size and / or structure of the slider.

[0024] Similar to the previously described embodiment, the quick connector 110 of FIGS. 10-23 is shown in an in-line configuration, but may have an elbow or L-shaped configuration in other embodiments. With more general reference to FIGS. 10-23, in this embodiment, the quick connector 110 includes a housing 124, a data matrix 126, a retainer 128, and a slider 130; yet, in other similar embodiments, the quick connector 110 may have more, fewer, and / or different components. With particular reference to FIGS. 15-17, the housing 124 has a slot 180 present in the first open end 116. The slot 180 receives insertion of the slider 130 during assembly of the quick connector 110. The slot 180 has an open end 182 for such reception and insertion. A first side wall 184, a second side wall 186, and an end wall 188 form and define the slot 180. To provide controlled translatable movement of the slider 130 within the slot 180, the slot 180 can include a counterpart of a guide rail and channel mating 190. However, other means for providing such movement are possible in other embodiments. In the present embodiment, the slot 180 has a first rail 192 and a second rail 194 of the guide rail and channel mating 190. The first rail 192 and the second rail 194 project circumferentially inward of the slot 180 toward each other, perhaps best shown in FIG. 17 . The first rail 192 projects from the first sidewall 184, and the second rail 194 projects from the second sidewall 186. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the slot 180 can have a channel of the guide rail and channel mating 190 or have other structures.

[0025] Detent surfaces on the housing 124 and slider 130 may be provided for face-to-face engagement and bias to inhibit and prevent unwanted and unintended movement of the slider 130 when received within the slot 180, during shipping and handling of the quick connector 110 with assembled slider 130, while the retainer 128 is moving from the first position to the second position, and at other times. Interference between opposing detent surfaces restricts movement of the slider 130 relative to the housing 124 and relative to the slider 130. The detent surfaces may be provided in different ways and with different configurations.

[0026] 15 and 16, in this embodiment, the housing 124 has a first protrusion 196, a second protrusion 198, a first inclined surface 200, and a second inclined surface 202. The first and second protrusions 196, 198 help maintain the slider 130 in the first position and protrude radially outward from the housing 124. A first detent surface 204 of the first protrusion 196 engages with a corresponding cooperating detent surface (described below) on the slider 130. Similarly, a second detent surface 206 of the second protrusion 198 engages with a corresponding cooperating detent surface (described below) on the slider 130. The first protrusion 196 is located at one open end 182 of the slot 180, and the second protrusion 198 is located at the opposite open end 182 of the slot 180. The first ramp surface 200 helps maintain the slider 130 in a first position (e.g., FIG. 21 ), and the second ramp surface 202 helps maintain the slider 130 in a second position (e.g., FIG. 22 ). The first and second ramp surfaces 200, 202 protrude radially outward from the housing 124. A third detent surface 208 of the first ramp surface 200 engages with an opposing cooperating detent surface (described below) on the slider 130, and similarly, a fourth detent surface 210 of the second ramp surface 202 engages with an opposing cooperating detent surface (described below) on the slider 130. The first and second ramp surfaces 200, 202 are arranged in tandem with respect to each other, with the first ramp surface 200 being disposed axially forward of the second ramp surface 202, which, in turn, is disposed axially aft of the first ramp surface 200. The first and second angled surfaces 200, 202 are located axially rearward of the slot 180 and adjacent the end wall 188. The first and second angled surfaces 200, 202 slope vertically upwardly in the axially rearward direction.

[0027] As with the previous embodiment, the data matrix 126 aids in the detection and verification of an intended and proper connection between the quick connector 110 and the spigot 12. The data matrix 126 can only be properly read and scanned by the device when the spigot end shape is fully inserted into the housing 124. Absent that condition, such as when the spigot 12 is not fully inserted, the device cannot properly read and scan the data matrix 126. Furthermore, in the embodiment of FIGS. 10-23, the data matrix 126 can only be properly read and scanned by the device when the slider 130 is in its second position. Absent that condition, such as when the slider 130 is in its first position, the device cannot properly read and scan the data matrix 126. The ability to read the data matrix 126 can serve as an indication that a connection has been made between the quick connector 110 and the spigot 12 and that the slider 130 is in its second position. Conversely, failure to read data matrix 126 serves as an indication that a connection has not been made between quick connector 110 and spigot 12 and that slider 130 is in the first position. Further, as previously discussed, the detection and verification provided by data matrix 126 may supplement other means of physical and visual verification provided by quick connector 110, depending on the particular embodiment. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 10-23, verification of connection is also accomplished by observing the position of slider 130 relative to housing 24 in applications where such observation is possible.

[0028] In the embodiment of Figures 10 to 23, the data matrix 126 is carried by the slider 130 and moves with the slider 130 when the slider 130 is urged to move from its first position to its second position. In other words, unlike the previous embodiments of Figures 1 to 9, the data matrix 126 is fixed to the slider 130 and therefore remains stationary relative thereto, but moves with the slider 130 relative to the housing 124 as the slider 130 moves. The data matrix 126 resides on an outer surface 212 of the slider 130, which, in the assembled state, is generally accessible outside the housing. Relative to the detents of the slider 130 (described below), the data matrix 126 is located axially rearward thereof; in fact, as perhaps best shown by Figures 19 and 22, the data matrix 126 can straddle the axially forward detents.

[0029] As with the previous embodiment, the retainer 128 continues to hold the spigot 12 once it is properly inserted into the quick connector 110. The retainer 128 also serves to partially or more obscure the data matrix 126 from reading and scanning when the slider 130 is in a first position and a connection between the quick connector 110 and the spigot 12 is missing, and to expose the data matrix 126 for suitable reading and scanning when the slider 130 is in a second position and a connection between the quick connector 110 and the spigot 12 is made. The reading and scanning of the data matrix 126 is coordinated with the movement of the retainer 128 and the movement of the slider 130. Unlike previous embodiments, the retainer 128 is not intentionally displaced axially when engaged by the ramp 18 to expose the data matrix 126, but rather is brought to the same axial position relative to the housing 124 when the data matrix 126 is obstructed and exposed. In this regard, the position and movement of the retainer are generally limited to radially outward and radially inward displacement motions. Exposure of the data matrix 126 for reading and scanning, according to this embodiment, relies more on the movement of the slider 130. The bridge portion 66 of the retainer is located axially rearward of the slider detent when the slider 130 is in a first position (e.g., FIGS. 13 and 21 ), and conversely, is located axially forward of the slider detent when the slider 130 is in a second position (e.g., FIG. 22 ). When axially rearward of the slider detent, the bridge portion 66 physically overlaps, interrupts, and blocks a portion or portions of the data matrix 126. The blocked portion, according to this embodiment, is a lateral extent and portion of the data matrix 126. When axially forward of the slider detent, the bridge portion 66 no longer blocks a portion of the data matrix 126.

[0030] The slider 130 moves in coordination with the insertion of the spigot 12 and the movement of the retainer 128 to expose the data matrix 126 for reading and scanning once the spigot 12 is fully inserted into the quick connector 110. The slider 130 carries the data matrix 126. The slider 130 can have various designs, structures, and components in different embodiments, depending in part or in part on its intended movement, the structure of the housing 124, and / or other factors. Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 18-20, in this embodiment, the slider 130 is assembled in place in the housing 124 and inserted into the slot 180. The slider 130 is translatable relative to the housing 124 and the slot 180. The slider 130 is a single, integral body made of plastic material. The slider 130 extends longitudinally from a first forward end 214 to a second rearward end 216. Cooperating detent structures and surfaces prevent unintentional movement of slider 130 when received within slot 180. In this embodiment, slider 130 has a first protrusion 218, a second protrusion 220, and a third protrusion 222. First protrusion 218 interacts with first protrusion 196 on the housing, second protrusion 220 interacts with second protrusion 198 on the housing, and third protrusion 222 selectively interacts with first and second angled surfaces 200, 202 on the housing. First and second protrusions 218, 220 help maintain slider 130 in its first position and protrude radially inward of slider 130. The first detent surface 224 of the first protrusion 218 engages the first detent surface 204 of the first protrusion 196 in a surface-to-surface contact, and the second detent surface 226 of the second protrusion 220 engages the second detent surface 206 of the second protrusion 198 in a surface-to-surface contact. The first protrusion 218 is located at the first end 214 on one side of the slider 130, and the second protrusion 220 is located at the first end 214 on the opposite side of the slider 130.

[0031] When engaged with the first ramp surface 200, the third protrusion 222 helps maintain the slider 130 in the first position. Conversely, when engaged with the second ramp surface 202, the third protrusion 222 helps maintain the slider 130 in the second position. The third protrusion 222 protrudes radially inward of the slider 130. The third detent surface 228 of the third protrusion 222 engages and abuts surface-to-surface with the third detent surface 208 of the first ramp surface 200 when the slider 130 is in the first position. Similarly, the third detent surface 228 of the third protrusion 222 engages and abuts surface-to-surface with the fourth detent surface 210 of the second ramp surface 202 when the slider 130 is in the second position. The third protrusion 222 is located at the second end 216 of the slider 130 and, in fact, constitutes the distal end of the slider 130 according to this embodiment.

[0032] 12 and 18-20 , to provide controlled translatable movement of the slider 130 within the slot 180, the slider 130 in this embodiment has a first channel 230 and a second channel 232 of the guide rail and channel mating portion 190. The first channel 230 receives the first rail 192 in the slot 180, and the second channel 232 receives the second rail 194 in the slot 180. The first channel 230 is defined by a first side wall 234, a first bottom wall 236, and a first top wall 238. The second channel 232 is similarly defined by a second side wall 240, a second bottom wall 242, and a second top wall 244. The first and second channels 230, 232 are located on opposite sides of the slider 130. In other embodiments, the slider 130 may have a guide rail, a rail for the channel fitting portion 190, or other structure. Furthermore, the slider 130 has a recess 246 on its bottom surface for receiving the protrusion 78 of the spigot 12 when the spigot 12 is inserted into the quick connector 110. The protrusion 78 is shown received in the recess 246 in FIG. 23 . The recess 246 is provided inside the first and second channels 230, 232 and extends axially and longitudinally from the open end 248 to the closed end 250. At the closed end 250, the slider 130 has an abutment wall 252. When the spigot 12 is inserted into the quick connector 110, the tip surface of the protrusion 78 engages with the abutment wall 252, butting face-to-face. This engagement encourages movement of the slider 130 relative to the spigot 12 and housing 124 , and once engagement occurs, the slider 130 is moved by the spigot 12 .

[0033] 12, 13, 18, and 19, to facilitate movement and positioning of the slider 130 in the first and second positions and to coordinate with the radial displacement of the retainer 128, a detent 254 is disposed on the upper side of the slider 130 for interacting with the retainer 128 during use of the quick connector 110. The detent 254 serves to retain the slider 130 in the first position and, conversely, serves to retain the slider 130 in the second position. The detent 254 can have various designs and configurations according to different embodiments. In this embodiment, the detent 254 is in the form of a protrusion 256. The protrusion 256 is located approximately midway between the longitudinal and axial extents of the slider 130 and protrudes radially outward from the outer surface 212 of the slider 130. The position is determined, at least in part, by the expected proximity of the retainer 128 on the slider 130 when the slider 130 is in the first and second positions. The retainer 128 is located axially rearward of the protrusion 256 when the slider 130 is in the first position (e.g., FIG. 21), and conversely, the retainer 128 is located axially forward of the protrusion 256 when the slider 130 is in the second position (e.g., FIG. 22).

[0034] Furthermore, the protrusion 256 has a first side surface 258 and a second side surface 260. The first side surface 258 faces generally axially forward, and the second side surface 260 faces generally axially rearward. The retainer 128 abuts against the first side surface 258 when the slider 130 is in the first position, helping to maintain the slider 130 in the first position. The retainer 128 abuts against the second side surface 260 when the slider 130 is in the second position, helping to maintain the slider 130 in the second position. In this embodiment, the first side surface 258 is inclined axially forward. This inclination facilitates the intended movement of the slider 130 to the second position. For example, when the retainer 128 and the bridge portion 66 engage with the inclined first side surface 258 during their radially inward displacement, the engagement can urge the slider 130 axially rearward to the second position. Similarly, according to this embodiment, the protrusion 256 is provided with a ramp 262. The ramp 262 spans the first and second side surfaces 258, 260 as illustrated. The ramp 262 is inclined axially rearward. The ramp 262 serves to reposition the slider 130 to the first position if the spigot 12 is partially or incompletely inserted. For example, if the ramp 18 of the spigot engages the first and second legs 68, 70, displacing the retainer 128 radially outward, but the first and second legs 68, 70 are not received within the spigot groove 20, the retainer 128 and bridge portion 66 then engage the ramp 262, urging the slider 130 axially forward and returning to the first position. Finally, according to this embodiment, the second side surface 260 is configured as a flat surface.

[0035] During assembly, installation, and use of the quick connector 110 of Figures 10-23, the slider 130 has specific positions and movements that act in coordination with the insertion of the spigot 12 and the movement of the retainer 128 to conceal or expose the data matrix 126. The slider 130 has a first position, shown in Figure 21. The first position is both an axially advanced position and an intermediate position of the slider 130. This may be the state of the slider 130 and retainer 128, for example, while the quick connector 110 is being shipped to a manufacturing facility. Here, the spigot 12 is not inserted into the quick connector 110. The retainer 128 is held in place on the housing 124 and slider 130. A bias from the retainer 128 helps hold the slider 130 in place. The bridge portion 66 physically interrupts and blocks the readability and scannability of the data matrix 126 when the slider 130 is in the first position.

[0036] Furthermore, the slider 130 has a second position shown in FIG. 22. The second position is also an axially rearward position and is the installation position of the slider 130. The slider 130 translates axially rearward from the first position to the second position. The slider 130 is axially translatable relative to the housing 124 about the slot 180. The slider 130 can move to the second position when the bridge portion 66 is momentarily lifted off the slider 130 and separated from the slider 130. The spigot inclined surface 18 engages with the retainer 128 before the spigot protrusion 78 engages with the abutment wall 252 of the slider 130. When the slider 130 is in the second position, the spigot 12 is fully inserted into the quick connector 110. In the second position, the retainer 128 and bridge portion 66, according to this embodiment, are positioned axially forward of the data matrix 126 and axially forward of the detent 254, fully exposing the data matrix 126 for proper reading and scanning.

[0037] It should be noted that in certain embodiments, the quick connector and / or slider need not necessarily exhibit all of the designs, structures, and components shown and described herein while still functioning in a suitable manner. For example, for some embodiments, only one or more detent structures and surfaces, or none of them, may be provided on the slider.

[0038] It should be understood that the foregoing description is not a definition of the invention, but rather a description of one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiment(s) disclosed herein, but rather is defined solely by the claims that follow. Furthermore, the statements contained in the foregoing description relate to specific embodiments and are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or the definition of terms used in the claims, unless a term or phrase is expressly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiment(s) will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All such other embodiments, changes and modifications are intended to be encompassed within the scope of the appended claims.

[0039] As used in this specification and claims, the terms "for example," "e.g.," and "such," as well as the verbs "consisting of," "having," "including," and other verb forms thereof, when used in combination with a description of one or more components or other items, are each to be construed as open-ended, meaning that the description is not to be regarded as excluding other additional components or items. Other terms are to be construed using their broadest reasonable meaning unless used in a context requiring a different interpretation.

Claims

1. 1. A fluid line quick connector, comprising: a housing having a main passageway and at least one window; Data Matrix and a retainer positionable in the at least one window, a portion of the retainer at least partially obstructing the data matrix when a spigot is not inserted into the main passage of the housing, and a portion of the retainer not at least partially obstructing the data matrix when a spigot is fully inserted into the main passage of the housing; and a slider movable relative to the housing; the data matrix is ​​carried by the slider; a fluid line quick connector, wherein the at least one window includes a first window on one side of the housing and a second window on an opposite side of the housing, the retainer is a wire spring having a bridge portion, a first leg, and a second leg, the first leg being received in the first window and the second leg being received in the second window, and the bridge portion physically overlaps and obstructs at least a portion of the data matrix when the spigot is not inserted into the main passage of the housing.

2. 2. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1, wherein the slider has an axially forward position relative to the housing when the portion of the retainer at least partially obstructs the data matrix, and the slider has an axially rearward position relative to the housing when the retainer is not at least partially obstructing the data matrix.

3. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1 , wherein the data matrix is ​​present on an exterior surface of the slider.

4. 2. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1, wherein the housing has a slot, the slider being received within the slot and translatable therein.

5. 2. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1, wherein the slider has a detent comprising a protrusion that interacts with the retainer to maintain the slider in a first position relative to the housing and to maintain the slider in a second position relative to the housing.

6. 6. The fluid line quick connector of claim 5, wherein the detent is a protrusion extending radially outward from the slider, the first position being an axial forward position and the second position being an axial rearward position, and the retainer abuts a first side of the protrusion when the slider is in the axial forward position and an opposite second side of the protrusion when the slider is in the axial rearward position.

7. 2. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1, wherein the housing has at least one first detent surface and the slider has at least one second detent surface, and engagement between the at least one first detent surface and the at least one second detent surface prevents axial forward movement of the slider when the portion of the retainer at least partially obstructs the data matrix, or prevents axial forward movement of the slider when the retainer is not at least partially obstructing the data matrix, or prevents axial forward movement of the slider when the portion of the retainer at least partially obstructs the data matrix and prevents axial forward movement of the slider when the retainer is not at least partially obstructing the data matrix.

8. 2. The fluid line quick connector of claim 1, wherein the slider has an abutment wall engageable by the spigot when the spigot is inserted into the main passage of the housing.

9. 1. A fluid line quick connector, comprising: a housing having a main passageway and at least one window; Data Matrix and a retainer positionable in the at least one window, a portion of the retainer at least partially obstructing the data matrix when a spigot is not inserted into the main passage of the housing, and wherein the portion of the retainer does not at least partially obstruct the data matrix when a spigot is fully inserted into the main passage of the housing; The retainer has a first position relative to the housing and a second position relative to the housing, the first position being axially forward of the second position, displacement of the retainer from the first position to the second position prompted by insertion of the spigot into the main passage of the housing, and in the first position, the portion of the retainer at least partially obstructs the data matrix, and in the second position, the retainer does not at least partially obstruct the data matrix.

10. 10. The fluid line quick connector of claim 9, wherein the data matrix is ​​on an exterior surface of the housing, and the data matrix remains stationary relative to the housing when the retainer moves from the first position to the second position.

11. 10. The fluid line quick connector of claim 9, wherein the housing has at least one rib projecting radially outward therefrom, and wherein in the first position, an adjacent portion of the retainer is located axially forward of the at least one rib, and in the second position, the adjacent portion of the retainer is located axially rearward of the at least one rib.

12. A fluid line quick connector assembly comprising the fluid line quick connector of claim 1 and the spigot.

13. 1. A fluid line quick connector, comprising: Housing and a slider movable relative to the housing from a first position to a second position; a data matrix movable with the slider; a retainer having a portion that at least partially obstructs the data matrix when the slider is in the first position, and wherein there is no partial obstruction of the data matrix by the portion of the retainer when the slider is in the second position; A fluid line quick connector, wherein the retainer is a wire spring having first and second legs disposed in the housing and a bridge portion connecting the first and second legs, the bridge portion overlapping and blocking at least a portion of the data matrix when the slider is in the first position.

14. 14. The fluid line quick connector of claim 13, wherein the first position is an axially forward position of the slider relative to the housing and the second position is an axially rearward position of the slider relative to the housing.

15. 14. The fluid line quick connector of claim 13, wherein the slider has a protrusion that interacts with the retainer to maintain the slider in the first position or to maintain the slider in the second position.

16. 14. The fluid line quick connector of claim 13, wherein the slider is axially translatable from the first position to the second position via a guide rail and channel engagement acting between the slider and the housing.

17. 14. The fluid line quick connector of claim 13, wherein the housing has at least one first detent surface, the slider has at least one second detent surface, and engagement between the at least one first detent surface and the at least one second detent surface prevents movement of the slider from the first position, or prevents movement of the slider from the second position, or prevents movement of the slider from the first position and prevents movement of the slider from the second position.

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