Fluid connector, fluid system and fluid system manufacturing method

Abstract

Provided are a fluid connector (10, 10A, 10B, 10C), a fluid system (1) and a fluid system (1) manufacturing method. The fluid connector (10, 10A, 10B, 10C) may be connected to and in fluid communication with a fluid line (20, 20A, 20B, 20C), and comprises a base (102), and a female connection unit (104) and a male connection unit (106) that are arranged on the base (102), wherein the base (102) may be sealingly connected to the fluid line (20, 20A, 20B, 20C), the female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) respectively define a first fluid channel (108) and a second fluid channel (110), and the first fluid channel (108) and the second fluid channel (110) are in fluid communication with each other and in fluid communication with the fluid line (20, 20A, 20B, 20C). The female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) are configured to structurally match each other, and at least one of the female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) comprises a flexible element (111) for flexible connection. The fluid system (1) comprises a plurality of the fluid connectors (10, 10A, 10B, 10C). The female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) in the fluid connector (10, 10A, 10B, 10C) and female connection units (104) and male connection units (106) in the fluid system (1) structurally match each other, allowing the plurality of fluid connectors (10, 10A, 10B, 10C) to be conveniently connected to each other, and flexible elements (111) can also realize the flexible connection between the fluid connectors (10, 10A, 10B, 10C) to compensate for / accommodate various mounting tolerances.

Description

Fluid connectors, fluid systems, and methods for manufacturing fluid systems Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to the field of fluid systems technology, and more specifically to fluid connectors for fluid systems, fluid systems including the fluid connectors, and methods of manufacturing the same. Background Technology

[0002] Battery packs in pure electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles typically contain multiple cooling plates / cooling pipes to hold cooling fluid. These multiple cooling plates / cooling pipes can be fluidly connected via fluid connectors.

[0003] In some battery packs, a scheme is employed to cool the sides of the battery cells using multiple cooling flat tubes. These tubes are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart, with a space defined between adjacent tubes to accommodate the battery cells. In this scheme, each cooling flat tube has a metal connector at its end. The metal connectors of adjacent cooling flat tubes face each other and are connected by a connecting tube made of plastic to achieve fluid communication between them. During the connection process, the connecting tube is first heated to soften it, and then its two ends are respectively fitted onto the metal connectors of the two adjacent cooling flat tubes. After the connecting tube cools, its two ends are tightly and sealingly connected to the metal connectors of the two adjacent cooling flat tubes. However, this method of connecting cooling flat tubes is complex and time-consuming.

[0004] Public content

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to solve the problems existing in the prior art described above, and to propose an improved fluid connector for a fluid system, a fluid system including the fluid connector, and a method for manufacturing the same.

[0006] To this end, a first aspect of this disclosure provides a fluid connector adapted for connection and fluid communication with a fluid conduit, the fluid connector comprising: a base adapted for a sealing connection with the fluid conduit; and a female connection unit and a male connection unit disposed on the base and defining a first fluid channel and a second fluid channel respectively, the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel being in fluid communication with each other and adapted for fluid communication with the fluid conduit; wherein the female connection unit and the male connection unit are configured to be structurally mating with each other, the female connection unit including a rigid female connection portion, and the male connection unit including a rigid male connection portion; and at least one of the female connection unit and the male connection unit includes a flexible element for flexible connection, the at least one of the female connection portion and the male connection portion being connected to the base via the flexible element.

[0007] According to the first aspect of this disclosure, the female and male connection units of the fluid connector are structurally matched / adapted / fitted to each other. This allows: the female connection unit of the fluid connector connected to one fluid line can be connected to the male connection unit of another fluid connector connected to another fluid line; similarly, the male connection unit of the fluid connector connected to one fluid line can be connected to the female connection unit of another fluid connector connected to another fluid line. Thus, multiple fluid connectors can be easily and quickly connected and fluidly communicated with each other without the need for additional connecting pipes as in the prior art. Furthermore, multiple fluid lines can be connected and fluidly communicated with each other by means of multiple fluid connectors, and the connection operation is simple. In addition, the flexible element of at least one of the female and male connection units in the fluid connector and fluid system described above can also realize, for example, a flexible connection between two adjacent fluid connectors. This is particularly advantageous in situations where multiple fluid lines need to be connected and fluidly communicated with each other through multiple fluid connectors, as the flexible element can compensate for / absorb various installation tolerances / errors during the installation process.

[0008] Based on the above-described technical concept, the first aspect of this disclosure may further include any one or more of the following optional forms.

[0009] In some alternative forms, one of the female connector unit and the male connector unit includes a quick-connect structure; and / or both the female connector and the male connector are tubular, with the inner diameter of the female connector matching the outer diameter of the male connector.

[0010] In some alternative forms, the male connector unit includes at least two locking arms disposed around the male connector portion, and the female connector unit includes an annular locking flange disposed on the outer periphery of the female connector portion, wherein the at least two locking arms and the locking flange are configured to structurally match each other.

[0011] In some alternative forms, the flexible element has a tubular shape, and / or the flexible element is in the form of a corrugated tube.

[0012] In some alternative forms, at least a portion of the female connector, the flexible element, and the base are integrally formed, and / or at least a portion of the male connector, the flexible element, and the base are integrally formed.

[0013] In some alternative forms, the flexible element is integrally formed with at least a portion of the female connector and the base by injection molding, and / or the flexible element is integrally formed with at least a portion of the male connector and the base by injection molding.

[0014] In some alternative forms, at least a portion of the female connector and / or the base includes an orifice configured to allow material of the flexible element to enter during injection molding, and / or at least a portion of the male connector and / or the base includes an orifice configured to allow material of the flexible element to enter during injection molding.

[0015] In some alternative forms, at least a portion of the female connector and / or the base includes a plurality of orifices spaced apart circumferentially; and / or at least a portion of the male connector and / or the base includes a plurality of orifices spaced apart circumferentially.

[0016] In some alternative forms, the flexible element is welded or bonded to the female connector and the base; and / or the flexible element is welded or bonded to the male connector and the base.

[0017] In some alternative forms, the base defines an opening and a fluid chamber in fluid communication with the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage, the fluid conduit being adapted to be inserted into the base via the opening to be in fluid communication with the fluid chamber.

[0018] In some alternative forms, the base includes a first portion and a second portion disposed opposite to each other, the first portion and the second portion together defining the fluid chamber and the opening, wherein one of the female connection unit and the male connection unit is disposed on the first portion and the other is disposed on the second portion.

[0019] In some alternative forms, the first part and the second part are each formed separately and connected to each other.

[0020] In some alternative forms, the first part and the second part are connected to each other by one or more of adhesive bonding, welding, or snap-fitting.

[0021] In some alternative forms, the fluid connector includes two female connection units and two male connection units, wherein the base defines two fluid chambers spaced apart from each other, wherein each fluid chamber is in fluid communication with a first fluid passage of a corresponding female connection unit and a second fluid passage of a corresponding male connection unit, wherein fluid from one of the two fluid chambers is adapted to flow into the other fluid chamber via the fluid conduit.

[0022] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a fluid connector adapted for connection and fluid communication with a fluid conduit, the fluid connector comprising: a base including a first portion and a second portion disposed opposite to each other, the first portion and the second portion jointly defining a fluid chamber and an opening, the fluid conduit being adapted to be inserted into the base via the opening to fluidly communicate with the fluid chamber; and a female connection unit and a male connection unit disposed on the base and defining a first fluid channel and a second fluid channel respectively, the first fluid channel and the second fluid channel being in fluid communication with the fluid chamber; wherein the base includes at least one groove for receiving adhesive, the at least one groove being disposed on at least one of the first portion and the second portion, and the first portion and the second portion being connected to each other by adhesive.

[0023] The first and second parts of the aforementioned fluid connector can be bonded together, allowing for simultaneous connection and sealing, thereby reducing the need for additional sealing components. Furthermore, by providing grooves on the base for accommodating adhesive, the depth of the grooves allows for control of the appropriate amount of adhesive applied, thus improving the bonding effect.

[0024] Based on the above-described technical concept, the second aspect of this disclosure may further include any one or more of the following optional forms.

[0025] In some alternative forms, the first portion includes a first plate-shaped body and a boss disposed on the first plate-shaped body, wherein the second portion includes a second plate-shaped body, and the at least one groove includes a first groove disposed on the second plate-shaped body, wherein the boss and the first groove are opposite to each other to jointly define a receiving space for receiving adhesive.

[0026] In some alternative forms, the second portion further includes a sidewall adjacent to the first groove and extending from the second plate-like body, wherein the sidewall has a shape that matches the outer periphery of the boss and surrounds the boss to limit relative movement between the first portion and the second portion.

[0027] In some alternative forms, an overflow space is defined between the sidewall and the outer periphery of the boss, and the overflow space is in communication with the receiving space.

[0028] In some alternative forms, the first part includes a first limiting portion and the second part includes a second limiting portion, wherein the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion cooperate with each other to limit the relative movement between the first part and the second part.

[0029] In some alternative forms, one of the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion is formed as a pin protruding into the fluid chamber, and the other is formed as a hollow protrusion protruding into the fluid chamber.

[0030] In some alternative forms, the base defines two fluid chambers, wherein the boss includes a first boss segment extending along the periphery of the first portion and a second boss segment extending from the first boss segment, the second boss segment separating the two fluid chambers, and wherein the first groove includes a first groove segment extending along the periphery of the second portion and a second groove segment extending from the first groove segment and opposite to the second boss segment.

[0031] In some alternative forms, the fluid connector includes two female connection units and two male connection units, wherein each fluid chamber is in fluid communication with a first fluid channel of the corresponding female connection unit and a second fluid channel of the corresponding male connection unit, and fluid from one of the two fluid chambers is adapted to flow into the other fluid chamber via the fluid conduit.

[0032] In some alternative forms, the second boss section is adapted to abut against an end of the fluid conduit inserted into the base, wherein the second boss section includes a recess for receiving adhesive, the recess including a first recess portion adapted to face the end of the fluid conduit.

[0033] In some alternative forms, the notch further includes a second notch portion that communicates with the first notch portion and is opposite to the second groove portion of the first groove.

[0034] In some alternative forms, the first portion and the second portion are adapted to be connected to the fluid conduit by an adhesive; wherein the at least one groove includes a second groove disposed on the first portion and located at the opening and a third groove disposed on the second portion and located at the opening, and wherein the second groove and the third groove are adapted to together surround the end of the fluid conduit inserted into the base.

[0035] In some alternative forms, the first and second portions comprise plastics; and / or the adhesive comprises epoxy resin, polyurethane, acrylic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0036] In some alternative configurations, one of the female connecting unit and the male connecting unit is disposed on the first portion, and the other is disposed on the second portion.

[0037] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a fluid system. The fluid system includes a fluid connector and a fluid conduit as described in a first or second aspect of this disclosure, the base of the fluid connector being hermetically connected to the fluid conduit.

[0038] In some alternative forms, the fluid system includes a plurality of fluid connectors and a plurality of fluid lines, the base of each fluid connector being sealed to a corresponding fluid line. The plurality of fluid connectors includes a first fluid connector, a second fluid connector, and a third fluid connector, wherein the female and male connection units of the second fluid connector are connected / mate with and fluidly communicate with the male connection unit of the first fluid connector and the female connection unit of the third fluid connector, respectively.

[0039] A fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a fluid system, the fluid system including a fluid connector and a fluid conduit as described in a second aspect of this disclosure, the method comprising: providing a first portion and a second portion of a base of the fluid connector and the fluid conduit; applying an adhesive to at least one recess in the base; assembling the fluid conduit, the first portion, and the second portion together such that one end of the fluid conduit is located between the first portion and the second portion; and curing the adhesive to connect the first portion, the end of the fluid conduit, and the second portion to each other by the adhesive.

[0040] Based on the above-described technical concept, the fourth aspect of this disclosure may further include any one or more of the following optional forms.

[0041] In some alternative forms, the method includes performing a surface treatment on the bonding areas of the first portion, the second portion, and the fluid conduit before applying the adhesive to at least one groove of the base.

[0042] In some alternative forms, the first and second portions comprise plastic, wherein the surface treatment performed on the bonding areas of the first and second portions includes at least one of laser treatment, plasma treatment, and chemical treatment.

[0043] In some alternative forms, the surface treatment is performed such that the surface energy of the bonding area between the first portion and the second portion is greater than 36 mN / m.

[0044] In some alternative forms, the fluid conduit comprises a metallic conduit body, wherein the surface treatment performed on the bonding area of ​​the conduit body comprises at least one of laser treatment, abrasion treatment, and chemical treatment.

[0045] In some alternative forms, the surface treatment is performed such that the surface roughness of the bonding area of ​​the pipe body is in the range of 1.4 μm to 2.6 μm.

[0046] In some alternative forms, the method includes: applying an external force toward the second portion to the first portion and / or applying an external force toward the first portion to the second portion during the curing of the adhesive. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be better understood through the following detailed description of alternative embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals identify the same or similar parts, wherein:

[0048] Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of a fluid system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fluid system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 3A is another partial cross-sectional view of a fluid system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 3B is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 3A;

[0052] Figure 4 is a partial exploded view of a fluid system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a fluid connector of a fluid system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 6 is a partial exploded view of a fluid connector of a fluid system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 7 is a partial perspective view of a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein two fluid connectors and corresponding fluid lines of the fluid system are shown;

[0056] Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a fluid connector and a corresponding fluid conduit of the fluid system are shown;

[0057] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 10 is an exploded view of a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein a fluid connector and corresponding fluid piping of the fluid system are shown.

[0059] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a fluid connector of a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] Figure 12A is another cross-sectional view of a fluid connector for a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] Figure 12B is a partial enlarged view of Figure 12A;

[0062] Figure 13 is an exploded view of a fluid connector for a fluid system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] Figure 14 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 13;

[0064] Figure 15 is a partial perspective view of a fluid system according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0065] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a fluid connector of a fluid system according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The implementation and use of the embodiments are discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of particular ways of implementing and using this disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. The descriptions of the structural positions of the various components, such as upper, lower, top, bottom, etc., are not absolute but relative. These orientations are appropriate when the various components are arranged as shown in the figures, but they change accordingly when the positions of the components in the figures change.

[0067] In this disclosure, the axial direction of a tubular or annular component refers to the direction of its central axis; the circumferential direction refers to the direction along the circumference of the component; and the radial direction refers to the direction passing through the central axis of the component and perpendicular to its axial direction. In this disclosure, a rigid component refers to a component that does not deform or hardly deforms when subjected to non-destructive external forces, and a flexible component refers to a component that can undergo relatively significant deformation when subjected to non-destructive external forces.

[0068] The terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified, the terms "installed," "connected," "linked," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly; for example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0069] Figures 1 to 6 illustrate a fluid system 1 and its components according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Referring to Figures 1 to 3B, the fluid system 1 may include a plurality of fluid connectors 10A, 10B, and 10C (hereinafter collectively referred to as fluid connectors 10) and a plurality of fluid lines 20A, 20B, and 20C (hereinafter collectively referred to as fluid lines 20). Each fluid connector 10 is sealed and fluidly connected to a corresponding fluid line 20, and adjacent fluid connectors 10 are sealed and fluidly connected to each other, thus allowing the plurality of fluid lines 20 to be fluidly connected to each other through the plurality of fluid connectors 10. The fluid system 1 may be used, for example, in a vehicle cooling system (such as a cooling system for a battery pack in an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle), and the fluid line 20 may be a cooling pipe, for example, a cooling pipe in the form of a multi-channel flat tube. It is understood that the application of the fluid system 1 according to this disclosure is not limited to this, but can be used in various scenarios requiring the delivery of fluid. In the illustrated embodiment, only the fluid connector 10 located at one end of the fluid line 20 is shown; it is understood that both ends of the fluid line 20 may be connected to fluid connectors 10.

[0071] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the fluid connector 10 includes a base 102, a female connection unit 104, and a male connection unit 106. The base 102 is adapted to be sealed to a fluid conduit 20. The female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 are disposed on the base 102 and define a first fluid channel 108 and a second fluid channel 110, respectively, which are in fluid communication with each other and adapted to be in fluid communication with the fluid conduit 20. The female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 are configured to be structurally matched / adapted / fitted to each other. At least one of the female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 includes a flexible element 111 for flexible connection.

[0072] The female connection unit 104 and male connection unit 106 of the fluid connector 10 described above are structurally matched / adapted / fitted to each other (connection structure). This allows: the female connection unit 104 of the fluid connector 10 connected to one fluid line 20 can be connected to the male connection unit 106 of another fluid connector 10 connected to another fluid line 20; similarly, the male connection unit 106 of the fluid connector 10 connected to one fluid line 20 can be connected to the female connection unit 104 of another fluid connector 10 connected to another fluid line 20. In this way, multiple fluid connectors 10 can be easily connected to each other and fluidly communicated without the need for additional connecting pipes as in the prior art. Furthermore, multiple fluid lines 20 can be connected to each other and fluidly communicated by means of multiple fluid connectors 10.

[0073] Referring to FIG1, the fluid system 1 may, for example, include at least a first fluid connector 10A, a second fluid connector 10B, and a third fluid connector 10C, and corresponding first fluid lines 20A, second fluid lines 20B, and third fluid lines 20C. The first fluid connector 10A is connected to the end of the first fluid line 20A for fluid communication; the second fluid connector 10B is connected to the end of the second fluid line 20B for fluid communication; and the third fluid connector 10C is connected to the end of the third fluid line 20C for fluid communication. The female connection unit 104B and the male connection unit 106B of the second fluid connector 10B are respectively connected to and fluidly communicate with the male connection unit 106A of the first fluid connector 10A and the female connection unit 104C of the third fluid connector 10C, thereby enabling the first fluid line 20A, the second fluid line 20B, and the third fluid line 20C to be fluidly communicated with each other.

[0074] Furthermore, the flexible element 111 of at least one of the female connection unit 104 and male connection unit 106 of the fluid connector 10 described above can also achieve, for example, a flexible connection between two adjacent fluid connectors 10. This is particularly advantageous in situations where multiple fluid lines 20 need to be connected and fluidly communicated to each other through multiple fluid connectors 10, as the flexible element 111 can compensate for / absorb various installation tolerances during the installation process. This will be more readily understood in conjunction with the description below.

[0075] Referring to Figures 2 to 4, the base 102 of the fluid connector 10 defines an opening 112 and a fluid chamber 114 in fluid communication with a first fluid channel 108 and a second fluid channel 110. The fluid conduit 20 may be in the form of a multi-channel flat tube and includes a plurality of fluid passages 202 parallel to each other. The ends 204 of the fluid conduit 20 are adapted to be inserted into the base 102 via the opening 112, such that the plurality of fluid passages 202 are in fluid communication with the fluid chamber 114.

[0076] The base 102 is configured to enclose the end 204 of the fluid conduit 20. The base 102 may include a first portion 116 and a second portion 117. In the illustrated embodiment, both the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 are generally plate-shaped and together define an opening 112 and a fluid chamber 114. The first portion 116 and the second portion 117 may be individually molded and connected to each other. The first portion 116 and the second portion 117 may be connected by one or more of adhesive, welding, or snap-fit. The materials of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 include, but are not limited to, plastics, such as thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 are disposed opposite to each other and connected to each other by adhesive and snap-fit. The perimeter of the first portion 116 may include a generally straight first perimeter segment 118 and a curved second perimeter segment 120. The perimeter of the second portion 117 may include a generally straight first perimeter segment 122 and a curved second perimeter segment 124. The first perimeter segment 118 and the first perimeter segment 122 together define an opening 112 and hold the end 204 of the fluid conduit 20 therebetween. An adhesive is applied to the inner surfaces of the first perimeter segment 118 and the first perimeter segment 122 to seal against the opposite first side 206 and second side 208 of the fluid conduit 20, respectively. Furthermore, an adhesive is also applied between the second perimeter segment 120 and the second perimeter segment 124 to seal against each other. In this way, a sealed connection can be achieved between the first part 116 and the second part 117 of the base 102 and between the base 102 and the fluid pipeline 20, thereby preventing fluid leakage.

[0078] Referring again to Figures 2 to 4, in the illustrated embodiment, the second perimeter segment 120 includes a first groove 121, the surface of which, together with the surface of the second perimeter segment 124, defines a receiving space 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the first perimeter segment 118 has a second groove 128 for receiving adhesive, and the first perimeter segment 122 has a third groove 130 for receiving adhesive. The first perimeter segment 118 may include two first overflow channels 132, which are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the second groove 128 and are in fluid communication with the receiving space 126. The first perimeter segment 122 may include two second overflow channels 134, which are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the third groove 130 and are in fluid communication with the two first overflow channels 132. Excess adhesive in the second groove 128 of the first perimeter section 118 and the third groove 130 of the first perimeter section 122 can flow into the first overflow groove 132 and the second overflow groove 134. Excess adhesive in the receiving space 126 between the second perimeter section 120 and the second perimeter section 124 can also flow into the first overflow groove 132 and the second overflow groove 134 to avoid excess adhesive overflow.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 116 includes a plurality of latches 138 spaced apart from each other at its periphery, and correspondingly, the second portion 117 includes a plurality of slots 136 spaced apart from each other at its periphery. Each latch 138 is adapted to engage with a corresponding slot 136 to further enhance the connection between the first portion 116 and the second portion 117. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, a plurality of slots may be provided on the first portion, while a plurality of latches may be provided on the second portion; in other embodiments not shown, the base may also be integrally formed without the need for slots and latches.

[0080] Referring to Figures 2 to 6, female connector 104 and male connector 106 are respectively disposed on the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 of the base 102. One of the female connector 104 and male connector 106 may include a quick-connect structure / quick-connector to enable quick connection between two or more fluid connectors 10. The materials of the female connector 104 and male connector 106 include, but are not limited to, plastics, such as thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. The female connector 104 includes a rigid female connector portion 140. The male connector 106 includes a rigid male connector portion 142. In the illustrated embodiment, both the female connector portion 140 and the male connector portion 142 are tubular. The inner diameter of the female connector 140 matches the outer diameter of the male connector 142. In other words, the inner diameter of the female connector 140 can be approximately equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the male connector 142. This allows the male connector 142 of one fluid connector 10 to be inserted into the female connector 140 of another fluid connector 10 and achieve fluid communication with that female connector 140. At least one of the inner surface of the female connector 140 and the outer surface of the male connector 142 can be provided with a sealing ring 144 to achieve fluid sealing. For example, referring to FIG2, the inner diameter of the female connector 140B of the second fluid connector 10B can be approximately equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the male connector 142A of the first fluid connector 10A, allowing the male connector 142A of the first fluid connector 10A to be inserted into the female connector 140B of the second fluid connector 10B to achieve fluid communication between the two fluid connectors 10A and 10B; the outer surface of the male connector 142A of the first fluid connector 10A is provided with a sealing ring 144 to achieve fluid sealing.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the male connector 106 includes a quick-connect structure / quick-connector. More specifically, the male connector 106 includes the aforementioned male connector 142 and at least two locking arms 146 disposed around the male connector 142. The female connector 104 includes an annular locking flange 148 disposed on the outer periphery of the female connector 140. The at least two locking arms 146 and the locking flange 148 are configured to structurally match / fit / mate with each other. In other words, the locking flange 148 of the female connector 104 of one fluid connector 10 can interlock with the locking arm 146 of the male connector 106 of another fluid connector 10, thereby achieving a quick and secure connection between the two fluid connectors 10. For example, referring to FIG2, the locking arm 146A of the male connector 106A of the first fluid connector 10A can interlock with the locking flange 148B of the female connector 104B of the second fluid connector 10B, thereby achieving a secure connection between the first fluid connector 10A and the second fluid connector 10B. It is understood that the connection locking structure of the above-mentioned female connection unit and male connection unit is only an example and not a limitation. The female connection unit and male connection unit can adopt other types of connection locking structure, such as the common connection locking structure that can realize fast connection, such as the connection locking structure disclosed in CN1916475A, CN110043731B, and CN111102411A.

[0082] Referring again to Figures 2 through 6, in the illustrated embodiment, the female connector unit 104 includes a tubular flexible element 111 for flexible connection. The female connector portion 140 of the female connector unit 104 is connected to the first portion 116 of the base 102 via the flexible element 111. The flexible element 111 is made of materials including, but not limited to, plastics, such as thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible element 111 of the female connector unit 104 is integrally formed with the female connector portion 140 and the first portion 116 of the base 102 by injection molding (e.g., overmolding, two-color injection molding, etc.). For example, the female connector portion 140 and the first portion 116 of the base 102 can be formed first by injection molding, and then the flexible element 111, which wraps around the end 147 of the female connector portion 140 and the tubular portion 149 of the first portion 116 and connects the female connector portion 140 and the first portion 116, can be formed directly on the female connector portion 140 and the first portion 116 by injection molding. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible element 111 is coaxially disposed on the outside of the end 147 of the female connector portion 140 and the tubular portion 149 of the first portion 116. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the flexible element may also be coaxially disposed on the inside of the end of the female connector portion and the tubular portion of the first portion.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible element 111 is in the form of a bellows, thus it can compensate for / absorb various installation deviations when the female connection portion 140 and the male connection portion 142 of the two fluid connectors 10 are connected to each other, including but not limited to axial position deviation, axis position offset, axis direction deviation, etc. of the female connection portion 140 and the male connection portion 142.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the tubular portion 149 of the first portion 116 connected to the flexible element 111 may include a plurality of circumferentially spaced first orifices 150, and the end portion 147 of the female connector 140 connected to the flexible element 111 may include a plurality of circumferentially spaced second orifices 152. During the injection molding of the flexible element 111 onto the first portion 116 of the female connector 140 and the base 102, the raw material of the flexible element 111 may enter the plurality of first orifices 150 and the plurality of second orifices 152 to enhance the connection strength between the flexible element 111 and the female connector 140 and the first portion 116 of the base 102 after the flexible element 111 is formed.

[0086] It is understood that in other embodiments, the female connector, flexible element, and base or first portion of the base may each be molded separately and then connected to each other; for example, the female connector, flexible element, and base or first portion of the base may each be molded separately and connected to each other by welding (e.g., laser welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.), which can achieve excellent connection strength and thus allow the fluid connector to transport fluids with high pressure. As another example, the female connector, flexible element, and base or first portion of the base may each be molded separately and connected to each other by adhesive bonding.

[0087] For solutions where the flexible element, female connector, and base or the first part of the base are integrally formed, or where the flexible element, female connector, and base or the first part of the base are each separately formed and connected to each other by welding or bonding, additional connection structures or fittings and sealing members for sealing the connection points can be eliminated. This simplifies the construction of the fluid connector and reduces its size, making it particularly suitable for applications with limited space. It is understood that in some embodiments not shown, both the female connector unit and the male connector unit may include flexible elements for flexible connection, and the female connector and male connector may each be connected to the base via flexible elements; in other embodiments not shown, only the male connector unit includes flexible elements for flexible connection, and the male connector is connected to the base via flexible elements.

[0088] Figures 7 to 10 illustrate a fluid system and its components according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to Figures 7 to 10, the fluid system according to the second exemplary embodiment is similar to the fluid system according to the first exemplary embodiment. The main difference is that the fluid connector 10 of the fluid system 1 according to the second exemplary embodiment includes two female connection units 104 and two male connection units 106, and the structure of the fluid conduit 20 of the fluid connector 10 according to the second exemplary embodiment is different from the structure of the fluid conduit of the fluid connector according to the first exemplary embodiment. The differences between the two exemplary embodiments will be described below.

[0090] Referring to Figures 7 through 10, the fluid connector 10 according to a second exemplary embodiment can be connected to and in fluid communication with a fluid conduit 20. The fluid connector 10 may include a base 102, a female connection unit 104, and a male connection unit 106. The base 102 is adapted to be sealed to the fluid conduit 20. The female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 are disposed on the base 102 and respectively define a first fluid channel 108 and a second fluid channel 110, which are in fluid communication with each other and adapted to be in fluid communication with the fluid conduit 20. The female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 are configured to structurally mate with each other. The female connection unit 104 includes a rigid female connection portion 140. The male connection unit 106 includes a rigid male connection portion 142. At least one of the female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 includes a flexible element 111 for flexible connection. At least one of the female connector 140 and the male connector 142 is connected to the base 102 via a flexible element 111. The materials of the female connector 140, the male connector 142, and the flexible element 111 include, but are not limited to, plastics, such as thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid connector 10 includes two female connection units 104. Each female connection unit 104 defines a first fluid passage 108. The fluid connector 10 may also include two male connection units 106. Each male connection unit 106 defines a second fluid passage 110. The female connection units 104 and male connection units 106 are configured to structurally mate with each other.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the female connector portion 140 of each female connector unit 104 and the male connector portion 142 of each male connector unit 106 are tubular. The inner diameter of each female connector portion 140 matches the outer diameter of the corresponding male connector portion 142. In other words, the inner diameter of each female connector portion 140 can be approximately equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the corresponding male connector portion 142, which allows each male connector portion 142 of one fluid connector 10 to be inserted into the corresponding female connector portion 140 of another fluid connector 10 and to achieve fluid communication with that female connector portion 140.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, each male connector 106 includes at least two locking arms 146 disposed around the male connector 142. Each female connector 104 includes an annular locking flange 148 disposed on the outer periphery of the female connector 140. The at least two locking arms 146 and the locking flange 148 are configured to structurally match / fit / mate with each other; in other words, the locking flange 148 of each female connector 104 of one fluid connector 10 can interlock with the locking arm 146 of the corresponding male connector 106 of another fluid connector 10, thereby achieving a secure connection between the two fluid connectors 10.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, each female connector unit 104 includes a tubular flexible element 111 for flexible connection. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible element 111 is in the form of a bellows. The female connector portion 140 of the female connector unit 104 is connected to the tubular portion 149 of the base 102 via the flexible element 111. The two ends of the flexible element 111 can be inserted and welded (e.g., but not limited to laser welding) to the female connector portion 140 and the tubular portion 149 of the base 102, respectively. The two ends of the flexible element 111 can have smooth outer surfaces. The female connector portion 140 and the tubular portion 149 of the base 102 can have smooth inner surfaces.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, base 102 defines an opening 112 and two fluid chambers 114 spaced apart from each other. Each fluid chamber 114 is in fluid communication with a first fluid passage 108 of a corresponding female connector 104 and a second fluid passage 110 of a corresponding male connector 106. A fluid conduit 20 is adapted to be inserted into base 102 via opening 112 to be in fluid communication with the two fluid chambers 114. The fluid conduit 20 is configured to direct fluid from one of the two fluid chambers 114 to the other fluid chamber.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid conduit 20 includes a conduit body 201 and an end member 203. The conduit body 201 may be made of a metal, such as aluminum. The conduit body 201 may be in the form of a multi-channel flat tube and includes a plurality of fluid passages 202 that are parallel to each other and open at both ends. The conduit body 201 includes a first end 204 and a second end 210 opposite to each other. The end member 203 defines a fluid receiving chamber 205. The end member 203 may be made of, but is not limited to, plastic. In the illustrated embodiment, the end member 203 may include a first segment 207 and a second segment 209 that are separately formed from each other. The first segment 207 and the second segment 209 may be connected to each other by, for example, bonding, welding, snap-fitting, etc. The first segment 207 and the second segment 209 together define the receiving chamber 205. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments not shown, the end member may also be integrally formed, for example, by injection molding. One end of the pipe body 201 can be inserted into the base 102 to communicate with the two fluid chambers 114, and the other end can be inserted into the end member 203 to communicate with the fluid receiving chamber 205. In this way, fluid from one fluid chamber 114 of the base 102 can flow into the fluid receiving chamber 205 through some fluid passages 202 of the pipe body 201, and then flow out of the fluid receiving chamber 205 and flow into the other fluid chamber 114 of the base 102 through other fluid passages 202 of the pipe body 201, as shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0097] It is conceivable that, in other embodiments not shown, the fluid conduit may include multiple U-shaped fluid passages, such that fluid from one fluid chamber of the base may enter the U-shaped fluid passage from the inlet end of the U-shaped fluid passage and flow out from the outlet end of the U-shaped fluid passage to another fluid chamber of the base.

[0098] Referring to Figures 9 to 11, in the illustrated embodiment, the base 102 is configured to enclose a first end 204 of the conduit body 201. The base 102 may include a first portion 116 and a second portion 117 disposed opposite to each other. The first portion 116 and the second portion 117 together define two fluid chambers 114 and an opening 112. The first portion 116 and the second portion 117 may be individually molded and connected to each other. The materials of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 include, but are not limited to, plastics, such as thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Using plastic materials for the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 can reduce costs and weight, which is particularly advantageous for applications where the fluid connector 10 is used in battery packs, helping to improve the energy density of the battery pack.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the female connector 104 is connected to the first portion 116, and the male connector 106 is integrally formed with the second portion 117 by injection molding. It is conceivable that in other embodiments (not shown), the female connector may be disposed on the second portion, while the male connector may be disposed on the first portion.

[0100] Referring to Figures 11 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 can be connected / sealed together with an adhesive, and also connected / sealed together with the conduit body 201 by an adhesive. The adhesive may include epoxy resin, polyurethane, acrylic, and mixtures thereof. The base 102 may include at least one groove 121, 128, 130 for receiving the adhesive. At least one groove 121, 128, 130 is provided on at least one of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117. The first portion 116, the second portion 117, and the conduit body 201 are adapted to be connected / sealed together with an adhesive received in at least one groove 121, 128, 130. The first portion 116, the second portion 117, and the first end 204 of the conduit body 201 can be connected together by adhesive, allowing simultaneous connection and sealing, thereby reducing the use of additional sealing components. By providing a groove on the base 102 for accommodating adhesive, the amount of adhesive can be reasonably controlled by the depth of the groove, thereby improving the bonding effect.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 116 may include a first plate-like body 154 and a boss 156 disposed on the first plate-like body 154. The second portion 117 may include a second plate-like body 158. At least one recess includes a first recess 121 disposed on the second plate-like body 158. The boss 156 and the first recess 121 are opposite to each other to jointly define a receiving space 126 for receiving adhesive. The first portion 116 and the second portion 117 may be sealed together by adhesive applied within the first recess 121.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the boss 156 includes a first boss segment 162 extending along the periphery of the first portion 116 and a second boss segment 164 extending from the first boss segment 162. The first boss segment 162 may have a curved / bent shape, and the second boss segment 164 may have a generally straight shape. The second boss segment 164 spaces the two fluid chambers 114 and may also be referred to as a spacer. The first recess 121 includes a first recess segment 166 extending along the periphery of the second portion 117 and a second recess segment 168 extending from the first recess segment 166 and opposite the second boss segment 164. The first recess segment 166 may have a curved / bent shape, and the second recess segment 168 may have a generally straight shape. The adhesive in the first groove section 166 can seal the perimeter of the first part 116 and the perimeter of the second part 117, and the adhesive in the second groove section 168 can seal the second boss section 164 and the second part 117, thereby preventing the two fluid chambers 114 from communicating through the gap between the second boss section 164 and the second part 117.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the second boss section 164 and the second groove section 168 can extend along the insertion direction of the pipe body 201 insertion base 102. The second boss section 164 is adapted to abut against the first end 204 within the insertion base 102 of the pipe body 201 to limit the insertion depth of the pipe body 201. A step portion 170 may also be provided on the first plate-shaped body 154 to limit the pipe body 201, thereby limiting the insertion depth of the pipe body 201.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 117 further includes a sidewall 172 adjacent to the first recess 121 and extending from the second plate-like body 158. The sidewall 172 may have a shape that matches the outer periphery of the first boss segment 162 and surrounds the first boss segment 162 to restrict relative movement between the first portion 116 and the second portion 117. This facilitates the relative positioning of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 before they are bonded together. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 116 also includes a first limiting portion 174 disposed on the first plate-like body 154. The second portion 117 also includes a second limiting portion 176 disposed on the second plate-like body 158. The first limiting portion 174 and the second limiting portion 176 cooperate with each other to restrict relative movement between the first portion 116 and the second portion 117. In the illustrated embodiment, the first limiting portion 174 is formed as a pin protruding into the fluid chamber 114, and the second limiting portion 176 is formed as a hollow protrusion protruding into the fluid chamber 114. The first limiting portion 174 is adapted to be inserted into the second limiting portion 176. In the illustrated embodiment, two first limiting portions 174 and two second limiting portions 176 protruding into the two fluid chambers 114 are provided respectively. It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the first limiting portion may be formed as a hollow protrusion, and the second limiting portion may be formed as a pin. The pin and hollow protrusion provided in the fluid chambers 114 can further enhance the relative positioning of the first part 116 and the second part 117. In addition, the cooperation of the pin and the hollow protrusion also helps to guide the first part 116 and the second part 117 to be smoothly assembled together before they are bonded. It is conceivable that in some other embodiments not shown, the first limiting part and the second limiting part may not be provided.

[0105] In the illustrated embodiment, an overflow space 127 for accommodating excess adhesive is defined between the sidewall 172 of the second portion 117 and the outer periphery of the first boss segment 162 of the first portion 116. The overflow space 127 communicates with the accommodating space 126. By providing the overflow space 127, space can be provided for excess adhesive while ensuring bonding effectiveness with sufficient adhesive, thereby reducing or preventing excess adhesive from overflowing into the fluid chamber 114 or onto the outer surface of the fluid connector 10, which could degrade product quality.

[0106] Referring again to Figures 11 to 14, the aforementioned at least one groove includes a second groove 128 disposed on the first portion 116 and located at the opening 112, and a third groove 130 disposed on the second portion 117 and located at the opening 112. The second groove 128 extends from one end of the first boss section 162 to the other end of the first boss section 162. The second groove 128 may define a receiving space for receiving adhesive with the first side surface 206 of the conduit body 201. The third groove 130 extends from one end of the first groove section 166 of the first groove 121 to the other end of the first groove section 166, and communicates with the second groove section 168 of the first groove 121. The third groove 130 may define a receiving space for receiving adhesive with the second side surface 208 of the conduit body 201. The second groove 128 and the third groove 130 together surround the first end portion 204 of the conduit body 201. The main body 201 of the conduit can be sealed to the base 102 by an adhesive contained in the second groove 128 and the third groove 130, and more specifically, sealed to the opening 112 of the base 102.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the second boss section 164 of the first portion 116 includes a recess 182 for receiving adhesive. The recess 182 includes a first recess portion 184 adapted to face the first end 204 of the conduit body 201. The adhesive contained in the first recess portion 184 can sealably connect the first end 204 of the conduit body 201 to the second boss section 164, preventing communication between the two fluid chambers 114 via the gap between the first end 204 of the conduit body 201 and the second boss section 164.

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the first recessed portion 184 of the notch 182 may communicate with the second groove 128. The notch 182 may also include a second recessed portion 186. The second recessed portion 186 communicates with the first recessed portion 184. The second recessed portion 186 and the second grooved section 168 of the first groove 121 are opposite to each other, such that the second recessed portion 186 of the notch 182 communicates with the second grooved section 168 of the first groove 121. Thus, the adhesive contained in the notch 182 can strengthen the sealing connection of the first portion 116, the second portion 117, and the pipe body 201 at the second bossed section 164.

[0109] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, similar to the base 102, the end member 203 may also include a recess (not shown) for receiving at least one adhesive, with at least one recess provided on at least one of the first segment 207 and the second segment 209 of the end member 203. The first segment 207, the second segment 209, and the second end 210 of the pipe body 201 can be connected to each other by adhesive. The bonding structure and bonding method of the end member 203 and the pipe body 201 are similar to those of the base 102 and the pipe body 201, and will not be described again here.

[0110] Referring to Figures 7 to 14, a method for manufacturing the fluid system of the fluid connector shown in Figures 7 to 14 is described below. The method includes: providing a first portion 116 and a second portion 117 of a base 102 of the fluid connector 10, and a fluid conduit 20; applying an adhesive to at least one recess 121, 128, 130 of the base 102; assembling the fluid conduit 20, the first portion 116, and the second portion 117 together after applying the adhesive, such that a first end 204 of the fluid conduit 20 is located between the first portion 116 and the second portion 117; and curing the adhesive to connect / seal the first portion 116, the first end 204 of the fluid conduit 20, and the second portion 117 to each other via the adhesive.

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 116 of the base 102 and the female connector 104 can be connected to each other by welding, and the second portion 117 of the base 102 and the male connector 106 can be integrally formed by injection molding. When the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 are provided, the first portion 116 may be connected to the female connector 104 or may not be connected to the female connector 104, while the second portion 117 is provided together with the male connector 106.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid conduit 20 includes a conduit body 201 and an end member 203 having a first segment 207 and a second segment 209. Thus, providing the fluid conduit 20 includes providing the conduit body 201, the first segment 207, and the second segment 209. Accordingly, the method further includes applying an adhesive to at least one recess in the end member 203 for receiving the adhesive. The step of assembling the fluid conduit 20, the first portion 116, and the second portion 117 together includes: disposing a first end 204 of the conduit body 201 between the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 of the base 102 such that the first end 204 abuts against a second boss segment 164 and a step portion 170 of the base 102; and disposing a second end 210 of the conduit body 201 between the first segment 207 and the second segment 209 of the end member 203.

[0113] The method may further include performing surface treatment on the bonding areas of the first portion 116, the second portion 117, and the fluid conduit 20 (i.e., the conduit body 201, the first segment 207, and the second segment 209) before applying the adhesive to at least one groove 121, 128, 130 of the base 102 and to at least one recess of the end member 203. The bonding areas of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 are the areas of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 intended to contact the adhesive, and include at least the inner surface of at least one groove 121, 128, 130, the surface of the boss 156 opposite to the first groove 121, and the surface of the boss 156 opposite to the first end 204 of the fluid conduit 20. The bonding area of ​​the pipe body 201 is the area of ​​the pipe body 201 intended to contact the adhesive, and includes at least the portions of the first side 206 and the second side 208 of the pipe body 201 located at the first end 204 and the second end 210. The bonding area of ​​the first segment 207 and the second segment 209 is the area of ​​the first segment 207 and the second segment 209 intended to contact the adhesive, and includes at least the inner surface of at least one recess.

[0114] As described above, the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 of the base 102 may comprise plastic. Surface treatment performed on the bonding areas of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 may include at least one of laser treatment, plasma treatment, and chemical treatment to increase the surface energy and / or surface roughness of the bonding areas of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117, thereby improving the wettability and adhesion between the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 and the adhesive. This surface treatment may be performed such that the surface energy of the bonding areas of the first portion 116 and the second portion 117 is greater than 36 mN / m, preferably greater than 50 mN / m.

[0115] As described above, the pipe body 201 of the fluid conduit 20 may include metal, such as aluminum. Surface treatment performed on the bonding area of ​​the pipe body 201 includes at least one of laser treatment, abrasion treatment, and chemical treatment to remove the metal oxide layer (e.g., aluminum oxide layer) of the bonding area of ​​the pipe body 201 and increase the roughness of the bonding area, thereby improving the adhesion between the bonding area of ​​the pipe body 201 and the adhesive. This surface treatment may be performed such that the surface roughness of the bonding area of ​​the pipe body 201 is in the range of 1.4 μm to 2.6 μm, preferably in the range of 1.9 μm to 2.6 μm.

[0116] As described above, the first section 207 and the second section 209 of the fluid conduit 20 may comprise plastic. Surface treatment performed on the bonding areas of the first section 207 and the second section 209 may include at least one of laser treatment, plasma treatment, and chemical treatment to increase the surface energy and / or surface roughness of the bonding areas of the first section 207 and the second section 209, thereby improving the wettability and adhesion between the first section 207 and the second section 209 and the adhesive. This surface treatment may be performed such that the surface energy of the bonding areas of the first section 207 and the second section 209 is greater than 36 mN / m, preferably greater than 50 mN / m.

[0117] The method may also include cleaning before surface treatment of the first part 116, the second part 117, the pipe body 201, the first section 207 and the second section 209.

[0118] The method may further include applying an external force toward the second portion 117 to the first portion 116 and / or applying an external force toward the first portion 116 to the second portion 117 during adhesive curing to press the first portion 116, the first end 204 of the conduit body 201, and the second portion 117 together to prevent warping due to manufacturing tolerances of the first portion 116, the second portion 117, and the conduit body 201 not fitting well together. This external force may be applied using a jig. Similarly, during adhesive curing, an external force may also be applied toward the second portion 209 to the first segment 207 and / or toward the first segment 207 to press the first segment 207, the second end 210 of the conduit body 201, and the second segment 209 together. The adhesive may be cured under heating conditions to accelerate the curing rate of the adhesive.

[0119] Figures 15 and 16 illustrate a fluid system and its components according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The fluid system according to the third exemplary embodiment is similar to the fluid system according to the second exemplary embodiment, with the main difference being the construction of the female connection unit 104 and the male connection unit 106 of the fluid connector 10.

[0120] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the female connection unit 104 and male connection unit 106 of the fluid connector 10 are configured to structurally mate with each other. One of the female connection unit 104 and male connection unit 106 may include a quick-connect structure / quick-connector to enable rapid connection between two or more fluid connectors 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the male connection unit 106 of the fluid connector 10 includes a tubular and rigid male connection portion 142. The male connection portion 142 includes a locking groove 188 located on its outer periphery. The female connection unit 104 of the fluid connector 10 includes a VDA quick-connect structure / quick-connector, i.e., a structure / connector designed based on the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) standard to achieve a rapid sealing connection. More specifically, the female connection unit 104 may include a tubular and rigid female connection portion 140 and a locking spring 190 retained on the female connection portion 140. The male connector 142 of the male connector unit 106 of one fluid connector 10 can be inserted into the female connector 140 of the female connector unit 104 of another fluid connector 10, and the locking spring 190 can move to a locking position when the male connector 142 is inserted into the female connector 140 to engage with the locking groove 188 on the male connector 142, thereby connecting the two fluid connectors 10 together.

[0121] It is understood that the quick-connect structure / connector of either the female connection unit or the male connection unit is not limited to this, and other quick-connect structures / connectors may also be used, such as other existing quick-connect structures / connectors.

[0122] It should also be understood that the various components and features described herein may be made of a variety of materials, including but not limited to polymers, rubber, metals, and other suitable materials or combinations thereof well known to those skilled in the art. The embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 16 only illustrate the shapes, sizes, and arrangements of various optional components of the fluid connectors and fluid systems according to this disclosure; however, they are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other shapes, sizes, and arrangements may be adopted without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0123] The technical content and features of this disclosure have been disclosed above. However, it is understood that, based on the inventive concept of this disclosure, those skilled in the art can easily make modifications, variations, and equivalents to these embodiments. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. This disclosure is intended to cover these modifications, variations, and equivalents. The description of the above embodiments is exemplary and not restrictive, and the scope of protection of this disclosure is determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A fluid connector (10) adapted to be connected to and in fluid communication with a fluid conduit (20), characterized in that, The fluid connector (10) includes: Base (102), said base (102) being adapted to be sealingly connected to said fluid line (20); and A female connection unit (104) and a male connection unit (106) are disposed on the base (102) and define a first fluid channel (108) and a second fluid channel (110) respectively. The first fluid channel (108) and the second fluid channel (110) are in fluid communication with each other and are adapted to be in fluid communication with the fluid conduit (20). The female connecting unit (104) and the male connecting unit (106) are configured to be structurally matched. The female connecting unit (104) includes a rigid female connecting portion (140), and the male connecting unit (106) includes a rigid male connecting portion (142). At least one of the female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) includes a flexible element (111) for flexible connection, and at least one of the female connection portion (140) and the male connection portion (142) is connected to the base portion (102) via the flexible element (111).

2. The fluid connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) includes a quick-connect structure; and / or Both the female connector (140) and the male connector (142) are tubular, and the inner diameter of the female connector (140) matches the outer diameter of the male connector (142).

3. The fluid connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The male connecting unit (106) includes at least two locking arms (146) disposed around the male connecting portion (142), and the female connecting unit (104) includes an annular locking flange (148) disposed on the outer periphery of the female connecting portion (140), wherein the at least two locking arms (146) and the locking flange (148) are configured to structurally match each other.

4. The fluid connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flexible element (111) has a tubular shape and / or the flexible element (111) is in the form of a corrugated tube.

5. The fluid connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the female connector (140), the flexible element (111), and the base (102) are integrally formed, and / or at least a portion of the male connector (142), the flexible element (111), and the base (102) are integrally formed.

6. The fluid connector according to claim 5, characterized in that, The flexible element (111) is integrally formed with at least a portion of the female connector (140) and the base (102) by injection molding, and / or the flexible element (111) is integrally formed with at least a portion of the male connector (142) and the base (102) by injection molding.

7. The fluid connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least a portion of the female connector (140) and / or the base (102) includes an orifice configured to allow material of the flexible element (111) to enter during injection molding, and / or at least a portion of the male connector (142) and / or the base (102) includes an orifice configured to allow material of the flexible element (111) to enter during injection molding.

8. The fluid connector according to claim 7, characterized in that, The female connector (140) and / or at least a portion of the base (102) include a plurality of orifices spaced apart circumferentially; and / or the male connector (142) and / or at least a portion of the base (102) include a plurality of orifices spaced apart circumferentially.

9. The fluid connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flexible element (111) is welded or bonded to the female connector (140) and the base (102); and / or the flexible element (111) is welded or bonded to the male connector (142) and the base (102).

10. The fluid connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The base (102) defines an opening (112) and a fluid chamber (114) in fluid communication with the first fluid channel (108) and the second fluid channel (110), the fluid conduit (20) being adapted to be inserted into the base (102) via the opening (112) in fluid communication with the fluid chamber (114).

11. The fluid connector according to claim 10, characterized in that, The base (102) includes a first portion (116) and a second portion (117) disposed opposite to each other, the first portion (116) and the second portion (117) together defining the fluid chamber (114) and the opening (112), wherein one of the female connection unit (104) and the male connection unit (106) is disposed on the first portion (116) and the other is disposed on the second portion (117).

12. The fluid connector according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first part (116) and the second part (117) are each formed separately and connected to each other.

13. The fluid connector according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first part (116) and the second part (117) are connected to each other by one or more of adhesive bonding, welding, or snap-fitting.

14. The fluid connector according to claim 10, characterized in that, The fluid connector (10) includes two female connection units (104) and two male connection units (106), wherein the base (102) defines two fluid chambers (114) separated from each other, wherein each fluid chamber (114) is in fluid communication with a first fluid passage (108) of the corresponding female connection unit (104) and a second fluid passage (110) of the corresponding male connection unit (106), wherein fluid from one of the two fluid chambers (114) is adapted to flow into the other fluid chamber via the fluid conduit (20).

15. A fluid connector (10) adapted to be connected to and in fluid communication with a fluid conduit (20), characterized in that, The fluid connector (10) includes: A base (102) comprising a first portion (116) and a second portion (117) disposed opposite each other, the first portion (116) and the second portion (117) together defining a fluid chamber (114) and an opening (112), the fluid conduit (20) being adapted to be inserted into the base (102) via the opening (112) for fluid communication with the fluid chamber (114); and A female connection unit (104) and a male connection unit (106) are disposed on the base (102) and define a first fluid channel (108) and a second fluid channel (110) respectively. The first fluid channel (108) and the second fluid channel (110) are in fluid communication with the fluid chamber (114). The base (102) includes at least one groove for receiving adhesive, the at least one groove being disposed on at least one of the first portion (116) and the second portion (117), and the first portion (116) and the second portion (117) being connected to each other by adhesive.

16. The fluid connector according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first portion (116) includes a first plate-shaped body (154) and a boss (156) disposed on the first plate-shaped body (154), wherein the second portion (117) includes a second plate-shaped body (158), and the at least one groove includes a first groove (121) disposed on the second plate-shaped body (158), wherein the boss (156) and the first groove (121) are opposite to each other to jointly define a receiving space (126) for receiving adhesive.

17. The fluid connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, The second portion (117) also includes a sidewall (172) adjacent to the first groove (121) and extending from the second plate-shaped body (158), wherein the sidewall (172) has a shape that matches the outer periphery of the boss (156) and surrounds the boss (156) to limit the relative movement of the first portion (116) and the second portion (117).

18. The fluid connector according to claim 17, characterized in that, An overflow space (127) is defined between the sidewall (172) and the outer periphery of the boss (156), and the overflow space (127) is in communication with the receiving space (126).

19. The fluid connector according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first part (116) includes a first limiting part (174), and the second part (117) includes a second limiting part (176), wherein the first limiting part (174) and the second limiting part (176) cooperate with each other to limit the relative movement of the first part (116) and the second part (117).

20. The fluid connector according to claim 19, characterized in that, One of the first limiting part (174) and the second limiting part (176) is formed as a pin protruding into the fluid chamber (114), and the other is formed as a hollow protrusion protruding into the fluid chamber (114).

21. The fluid connector according to claim 16, characterized in that, The base (102) defines two fluid chambers (114), wherein the boss (156) includes a first boss section (162) extending along the periphery of the first portion (116) and a second boss section (164) extending from the first boss section (162), the second boss section (164) separating the two fluid chambers (114), and wherein the first groove (121) includes a first groove section (166) extending along the periphery of the second portion (117) and a second groove section (168) extending from the first groove section (166) and opposite to the second boss section (164).

22. The fluid connector according to claim 21, characterized in that, The fluid connector (10) includes two female connection units (104) and two male connection units (106), wherein each fluid chamber (114) is in fluid communication with a first fluid passage (108) of the corresponding female connection unit (104) and a second fluid passage (110) of the corresponding male connection unit (106), and fluid from one of the two fluid chambers (114) is adapted to flow into the other fluid chamber via the fluid conduit (20).

23. The fluid connector according to claim 21, characterized in that, The second boss section (164) is adapted to abut against the end (204) of the fluid conduit (20) inserted into the base (102), wherein the second boss section (164) includes a recess (182) for receiving adhesive, the recess (182) including a first recess portion (184) adapted to face the end (204) of the fluid conduit (20).

24. The fluid connector according to claim 23, characterized in that, The notch (182) further includes a second notch portion (186), which communicates with the first notch portion (184) and is opposite to the second groove segment (168) of the first groove (121).

25. The fluid connector according to any one of claims 15 to 24, characterized in that, The first portion (116) and the second portion (117) are adapted to be connected to the fluid conduit (20) by an adhesive; wherein the at least one groove includes a second groove (128) disposed on the first portion (116) and located at the opening (112) and a third groove (130) disposed on the second portion (117) and located at the opening (112), and wherein the second groove (128) and the third groove (130) are adapted to together surround the end (204) of the fluid conduit (20) inserted into the base (102).

26. The fluid connector according to any one of claims 15 to 24, characterized in that, The first part (116) and the second part (117) comprise plastic; and / or the adhesive comprises epoxy resin, polyurethane, acrylic resin, and mixtures thereof.

27. The fluid connector according to any one of claims 15 to 24, characterized in that, One of the female connecting unit (104) and the male connecting unit (106) is disposed on the first part (116), and the other is disposed on the second part (117).

28. A fluid system, characterized in that, The fluid system (1) includes a fluid connector (10) and a fluid line (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the base (102) of the fluid connector (10) is hermetically connected to the fluid line (20).

29. The fluid system according to claim 28, characterized in that, The fluid system (1) includes a plurality of fluid connectors (10) and a plurality of fluid lines (20), the base (102) of each fluid connector (10) being sealed to the corresponding fluid line (20); The plurality of fluid connectors (10) include a first fluid connector (10A), a second fluid connector (10B), and a third fluid connector (10C), wherein the female connection unit (104B) and the male connection unit (106B) of the second fluid connector (10B) are respectively connected to the male connection unit (106A) of the first fluid connector (10A) and the female connection unit (104C) of the third fluid connector (10C) and are in fluid communication.

30. A method of manufacturing a fluid system, said fluid system comprising a fluid connector (10) and a fluid conduit (20) according to any one of claims 15 to 27, characterized in that, The method includes: Provides a first portion (116) and a second portion (117) of the base (102) of the fluid connector (10) and the fluid conduit (20); Apply adhesive to at least one groove of the base (102); Assemble the fluid conduit (20), the first portion (116), and the second portion (117) together such that one end (204) of the fluid conduit (20) is located between the first portion (116) and the second portion (117); and The adhesive is cured to connect the first portion (116), the end (204) of the fluid conduit (20) and the second portion (117) to each other by means of the adhesive.

31. The method according to claim 30, characterized in that, The method includes performing a surface treatment on the bonding areas of the first portion (116), the second portion (117), and the fluid conduit (20) before applying the adhesive to at least one groove of the base (102).

32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The first portion (116) and the second portion (117) comprise plastic, wherein the surface treatment performed on the bonding areas of the first portion (116) and the second portion (117) comprises at least one of laser treatment, plasma treatment and chemical treatment.

33. The method according to claim 32, characterized in that, The surface treatment is performed such that the surface energy of the bonding area of ​​the first portion (116) and the second portion (117) is greater than 36 mN / m.

34. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The fluid conduit (20) includes a metal conduit body (201), wherein the surface treatment performed on the bonding area of ​​the conduit body (201) of the fluid conduit (20) includes at least one of laser treatment, abrasion treatment and chemical treatment.

35. The method according to claim 34, characterized in that, The surface treatment is performed such that the surface roughness of the bonding area of ​​the pipe body (201) is in the range of 1.4 μm to 2.6 μm.

36. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 35, characterized in that, The method includes: applying an external force toward the second portion (117) to the first portion (116) during the curing of the adhesive, and / or applying an external force toward the first portion (116) to the second portion (117).

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