Signal connector

Abstract

A signal connector, which can be used for signal transmission between cables, between a cable and an instrument, and between instruments. A signal may be, for example, a radio-frequency signal. The signal connector has a first axial direction. The signal connector comprises a first connecting unit, a second connecting unit, and a locking unit. The second connecting unit is docked with the first connecting unit in the first axial direction. The locking unit comprises a lock hook component and a lock cylinder. The lock hook component is rotatably connected to one of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit, and the lock cylinder is disposed on the other of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit. The lock hook component can be switched between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the locked position, the lock hook component can be engaged with the lock cylinder in the first axial direction. The signal connector is easy to operate, can improve the disassembly and assembly efficiency, and facilitates ensuring the consistency of products and the stability of signal transmission.

Description

A signal connector

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2024229127688, filed on November 27, 2024, entitled "A Signal Connector", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication equipment technology, and more particularly to a signal connector. Background Technology

[0003] A signal connector is a communication connection component that can be used to achieve communication connections between cables, between cables and instruments, and between instruments.

[0004] In related technologies, signal connectors include a first connecting unit and a second connecting unit, which can be threaded together to secure the connection. Generally, this connection method involves hand-tightening or using an adjustable wrench, resulting in uncontrollable tightening and poor product consistency in the signal connectors. It also increases the likelihood of unreliable connection between the first and second connecting units. Furthermore, this connection method is relatively cumbersome, with relatively low efficiency in installation and disassembly.

[0005] Therefore, how to provide a solution to overcome or alleviate the above-mentioned defects remains a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a signal connector that locks and unlocks the first and second connecting units by rotating a locking hook component. This is simple to operate, improves assembly and disassembly efficiency, and helps ensure product consistency and signal transmission stability.

[0007] This application provides a signal connector for signal transmission between cables, between cables and instruments, and between instruments. The signal can be, for example, a radio frequency (RF) signal. The signal connector has a first axial direction. The signal connector includes a first connecting unit, a second connecting unit, and a locking unit. The second connecting unit can mate with the first connecting unit in the aforementioned first axial direction. The locking unit includes a hook component and a locking pin. The hook component is rotatably connected to one of the first and second connecting units, while the locking pin is disposed on the other of the first and second connecting units. By rotating the hook component, it can switch between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the locked position, the hook component can engage with the locking pin along the first axial direction. In the unlocked position, the first and second connecting units can separate.

[0008] In the above-described solution, the embodiment of this application is equipped with a locking unit. In actual use, it is only necessary to operate the locking hook component to rotate, so as to drive the locking hook component and the locking pin to engage or disengage, thereby realizing the locking or unlocking of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit. The operation is convenient and can greatly improve the installation and disassembly efficiency of the signal connector.

[0009] Furthermore, compared to the uncontrollable tightening degree of threaded connections in related technologies, the snap-fit ​​connection between the locking hook component and the locking pin in this embodiment is more intuitive, making it easier for users to identify and judge whether the locking unit has been reliably connected. This helps to ensure the product consistency of the formed signal connector, thereby improving the connection reliability of the first connection unit and the second connection unit.

[0010] Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​connection between the locking hook component and the locking pin is a rigid connection, which essentially eliminates the reliability degradation issue that occurs with elastic connections during long-term use, meaning that the connection reliability can be guaranteed for a considerable period. In other words, in this embodiment, the connection reliability between the first and second connecting units can be high, and correspondingly, the signal transmission between them can be relatively stable, with relatively high signal transmission quality.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the locking hook component includes a connecting beam and two locking hook beams, which are spaced apart from the connecting beam. The two locking hook beams and the connecting beam can be a single, integrally formed structure; alternatively, the two locking hook beams and the connecting beam can be manufactured separately and then assembled. Both locking hook beams are rotatably connected to one of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit. There are two locking pins, each of which can be located in the other of the first and second connecting units. In the locked position, the two locking hook beams can respectively engage with the two locking pins along a first axis.

[0012] This design allows a single locking hook component to engage with both locking pins simultaneously, improving the connection reliability between the first and second connecting units. Furthermore, the two locking hook beams can rotate synchronously under the drive of the connecting beam, eliminating the need for separate drives and making operation more convenient. This also significantly improves the efficiency of assembling and disassembling signal connectors.

[0013] In practical applications, the number of the aforementioned locking hook components can also be multiple, for example, N, where N>1. In this case, the number of locking pins can be 2N, with each pair forming a group, i.e., there are N groups of locking pins. In the locked position, the N locking hook components can engage with the N groups of locking pins in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0014] It should be understood that in some other implementations of the embodiments of this application, the locking hook component may not include the connecting beam portion, that is, the locking hook component may only include the locking hook beam portion. In this case, the structural form of the locking hook component can be simpler.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the connecting beam includes a first latch, and in the locked position, a gap is formed between the outer wall surfaces of the first latch and the outer wall surfaces of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit. This gap can serve as an operating gap, allowing the user to insert their fingers or other tools into the gap to apply an unlocking driving force to the connecting beam, thereby facilitating the rotation of the locking hook component and enabling it to switch from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0016] Specifically, the first latch may have a first latch surface. In the locked position, the first latch surface may face the other of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit, and is used to form a gap between the first connecting unit and the other of the second connecting unit. The first latch surface may be curved or flat.

[0017] The connecting beam may consist only of the first latch portion, meaning the connecting beam may be spaced apart from the outer wall of the first connecting unit and the other of the second connecting units. Alternatively, the connecting beam may also include a first base portion. In the locked position, the first base portion and the first latch portion may be arranged along the first axis direction; the first base portion may fit against the outer wall of the other of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit to improve the stability of the locking hook component in the locked position.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the locking hook beam includes a base beam and a latch, which can be an integrally formed structure; alternatively, the base beam and latch can be manufactured separately and then assembled. The base beam has a mounting hole, and one of the first and second connecting units can be provided with a hinge shaft, through which the base beam can be rotatably connected to the hinge shaft. The latch and the connecting beam are both located on the base beam, and the latch is used to engage with the locking pin along the first axis. In the locked position, the connecting beam and the latch are located on opposite sides of the mounting hole along the first axis. Alternatively, in the locked position, the connecting beam and the latch are both located on the same side of the mounting hole along the first axis.

[0019] In one possible implementation, a guide groove is provided along the axial direction of the mounting hole on the portion of the base beam facing the first connecting unit and the other of the second connecting units. The guide groove communicates with the mounting hole and extends to the outer wall surface of the base beam. With this configuration, when assembling or disassembling the base beam and the first connecting unit, the guide groove can accommodate the hinge shaft and guide it, facilitating the entry and exit of the hinge shaft from the mounting hole, thereby improving the assembly and disassembly efficiency of the signal connector provided in this embodiment.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the base beam includes a second latch, with a gap between the second latch and one of the first and second connecting units. This gap can also serve as an operating gap, facilitating the user to apply driving force to the second latch to facilitate the installation or disassembly of the base beam and hinge shaft, thereby improving the assembly and disassembly efficiency of the signal connector provided in this embodiment. Specifically, the gap may be formed between the second latch surface and one of the first and second connecting units. The second latch surface can be curved or planar.

[0021] The base beam may only include the aforementioned second latch, meaning the base beam can be integrally spaced with the outer wall of either the first or second connecting unit. This reduces friction between the base beam and either the first or second connecting unit during rotation, improving the smoothness of rotation. Alternatively, the base beam may include a second base that fits against either the first or second connecting unit along the axial direction of the mounting hole. This reduces relative wobbling between the locking hook component and either the first or second connecting unit along the second axis, thereby improving the installation reliability of the locking hook component within the first and second connecting units.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the locking hook component has a latch. The latch is provided with a locking groove, and in the locked position, the locking pin is inserted into the locking groove. Both sidewalls of the locking groove can abut against the locking pin along the first axis direction, thus greatly improving the reliability of locking. Alternatively, in the locked position, the latch can be entirely located on one side of the locking pin along the first axis direction, thus simplifying the structure of the latch.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the first connecting unit includes an outer sleeve, and the second connecting unit includes a first inner insert, which can be inserted into the outer sleeve. One of the inner insert and the outer sleeve is provided with a limiting groove, and the other with a limiting block. The limiting block can be inserted into the limiting groove, thereby limiting the relative rotation of the first and second connecting units and further improving the connection reliability of the first and second connecting units. Furthermore, the cooperation between the limiting block and the limiting groove also serves a positioning and guiding function, improving the smoothness of insertion of the inner insert and the outer sleeve, and is also of relatively positive significance for ensuring the accurate connection of the locking hook component and the locking pin.

[0024] The number of limit blocks and limit slots can both be one. Alternatively, the number of limit blocks and limit slots can both be greater than or equal to two, and the number of limit blocks and limit slots can be the same. During actual assembly, each limit block can be inserted into each limit slot in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the first connecting unit includes an outer sleeve having a first axial end face, and the second connecting unit includes a first inner insert capable of being inserted into the outer sleeve. A portion of the first inner insert is provided with an external thread, and the outer sleeve can cover the external thread to shield and protect it.

[0026] The RF connector also includes a first sealing component, which is located between the end of the outer sleeve near the first axial end face and the second connecting unit. This first sealing component seals the gap between the outer sleeve and the first inner insert, thereby reducing the entry of external dust, moisture, and other impurities into the signal connector and their impact on its normal operation. Furthermore, this structural design provides good protection for the external threads, reducing the erosion of the external threads by dust, moisture, and other impurities, ensuring the structural integrity of the external threads over a longer period.

[0027] In this embodiment, there is no threaded connection between the outer sleeve and the first inner insert; that is, there is no need for a threaded fit between the outer sleeve and the aforementioned external thread. Therefore, the external thread in this embodiment is primarily designed to improve the versatility of the signal connector. In practical applications, even if the first connecting unit or locking unit is damaged, the second connecting unit in the signal connector provided in this embodiment can still be used in conjunction with the first connecting unit with internal threads in related technologies, preventing the entire connector from becoming unusable.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first inner part or the outer part is provided with a first annular groove, and the first sealing member is disposed in the first annular groove to improve the installation stability of the first sealing member. The first sealing member can achieve radial sealing between the first inner part and the outer part.

[0029] Alternatively, the second connecting unit is provided with a first stepped surface, which is set at an angle to the first axial direction, and a first sealing component is disposed between the first stepped surface and the first axial end face, which can achieve axial sealing between the outer sleeve and the second connecting unit.

[0030] Alternatively, the second connecting unit may have a first stepped surface, which forms an angle with the first axial direction. The first sealing component includes a radial sealing portion and an axial sealing portion. The radial sealing portion is located radially inside the outer sleeve, and the axial sealing portion is located between the first stepped surface and the first axial end face. In this case, both radial and axial seals can exist simultaneously between the outer sleeve and the first inner insert, which can greatly improve the sealing reliability between the first inner insert and the outer sleeve.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the signal connector further includes a second sealing component. The first connecting unit has a second stepped surface, which is angled to the first axial direction. The first insert has a second axial end face. The second sealing component is located between the second axial end face and the second stepped surface to achieve an axial seal between the first insert and the first connecting unit.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the signal connector further includes a third sealing component. The first connecting unit includes a second insert portion, at least a portion of which is cylindrical. The second insert portion is capable of being inserted into the first insert portion along a first axial direction. The third sealing component is disposed between the first insert portion and the second insert portion to achieve a radial seal between the first insert portion and the second insert portion.

[0033] It should be understood that in some other implementations of the embodiments of this application, the second sealing component and the third sealing component can also be combined into one to form a whole, which makes installation more convenient; in this case, the whole is an irregularly shaped sealing component, including a radial sealing part and an axial sealing part, wherein the axial sealing part can play the role of the second sealing component, and the radial sealing part can play the role of the third sealing component. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment, wherein the locking hook component is in the locked position;

[0035] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment, wherein the locking hook component is in the unlocked position;

[0036] Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of another implementation of the signal connector provided in the embodiment of this application, wherein the locking hook component is in the locked position;

[0037] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the first implementation of the locking hook component;

[0038] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of the second implementation of the locking hook component;

[0039] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of the third implementation method of the locking hook component;

[0040] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of the fourth implementation method of the locking hook component;

[0041] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the fifth implementation method of the locking hook component;

[0042] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of the sixth implementation method of the locking hook component;

[0043] Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of one implementation of the signal connector provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 10;

[0045] Figure 12 is a structural schematic diagram of a modified version of Figure 11;

[0046] Figure 13 is a structural schematic diagram of another variation of Figure 11;

[0047] Figure 14 is a connection structure diagram of the second connecting unit, the locking pin and the first sealing component;

[0048] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connecting unit.

[0049] Reference numerals: 1000-First connecting unit; 1100-Hinge shaft; 1200-Outer sleeve; 1210-First axial end face; 1220-Limiting block; 1300-Second inner insertion part; 1310-Second annular groove; 1400-Second stepped surface; 2000-Second connecting unit; 2100-First inner insertion part; 2110-External thread; 2120-Second axial end face; 2130-First annular groove; 2140-Limiting groove; 2200-First stepped surface; 3000 - Locking unit; 3100 - Locking hook component; 3110 - Connecting beam; 3111 - First base; 3112 - First latch; 3112A - First latch face; 3112B - Opposite wall surface; 3120 - Locking hook beam; 3121 - Base beam; 3121A - Mounting hole; 3121B - Guide groove; 3121C - Second base; 3121D - Second latch; 3121D1 - Second latch face; 3122 - Hook; 3122A - Lock groove; 3122B - Guide wall surface; 3122C - Engaging wall surface; 3122D - Engaging step surface; 3122E - Abutting wall surface; 3130 - Weight reduction hole; 3200 - Locking pin; 4000 - First sealing component; 4100 - Radial sealing part; 4200 - Axial sealing part; 5000 - Second sealing component; 6000 - Third sealing component; P - First axial direction; Q - Second axial direction. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of this application, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0051] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first," "second," and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0052] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "linking" can mean a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. "Rotary connection" refers to a connection between two objects that allows them to rotate relative to each other after connection.

[0053] In the description of embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0054] Please refer to Figures 1-3. Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment, wherein the locking hook component is in the locked position; Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of one implementation of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment, wherein the locking hook component is in the unlocked position; Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of another implementation of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment, wherein the locking hook component is in the locked position.

[0055] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, this application provides a signal connector having a first axial direction P and including a first connecting unit 1000, a second connecting unit 2000, and a locking unit 3000.

[0056] In practical applications, the first connecting unit 1000 can be connected to the first component to be connected, and the second connecting unit 2000 can be connected to the second component to be connected. Then, the second connecting unit 2000 can be docked with the first connecting unit 1000 to realize the communication connection between the first component to be connected and the second component to be connected. The docking direction of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000 is the aforementioned first axial direction P.

[0057] Here, the embodiments of this application do not limit the specific types of the first and second components to be connected, that is, they do not limit the specific application scenarios of the signal connector provided in the embodiments of this application. In fact, the signal connector provided in the embodiments of this application is applicable to any scenario that requires signal (such as radio frequency signals). For example, the first and second components to be connected can both be cables. Another example is that the first and second components to be connected can both be instruments. Yet another example is that one of the first and second components to be connected can be a cable, while the other can be an instrument.

[0058] Furthermore, the embodiments of this application do not limit the specific structure of the communication connection portion in the first connection unit 1000 and the second connection unit 2000. The specific structure is not the focus of improvement of the embodiments of this application. In practical applications, those skilled in the art can refer to relevant technologies to determine it.

[0059] The locking unit 3000 includes a locking hook component 3100 and a locking pin 3200. The locking hook component 3100 is rotatably connected to the first connecting unit 1000. Specifically, the first connecting unit 1000 may have a hinge pin 1100, and the locking hook component 3100 may be rotatably connected to the hinge pin 1100 to achieve a rotatable connection between the locking hook component 3100 and the first connecting unit 1000. In this embodiment, the axial direction of the hinge pin 1100 can be defined as the second axial direction Q, and the second axial direction Q and the first axial direction P can be set at an angle, such as 90 degrees. The locking pin 3200 is located in the second connecting unit 2000.

[0060] In practical use, the locking hook component 3100 can rotate around the second axis direction Q to switch between the unlocked and locked positions. As shown in Figure 1, in the locked position, the locking hook component 3100 can engage with the locking pin 3200 along the first axis direction P to lock the connection between the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000. As shown in Figure 2, in the unlocked position, the locking hook component 3100 can disengage from the locking pin 3200, and the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000 can be easily separated.

[0061] Thus, when using the signal connector provided in this application embodiment, only the locking hook component 3100 needs to be rotated to lock or unlock the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000. The operation is convenient and can greatly improve the installation and disassembly efficiency of the signal connector.

[0062] Furthermore, compared to the uncontrollable tightening degree of threaded connections in related technologies, the snap-fit ​​connection between the locking hook component 3100 and the locking pin 3200 in this embodiment is more intuitive, allowing users to easily identify and determine whether the locking unit 3000 is reliably connected. This helps ensure the product consistency of the formed signal connector, thereby improving the connection reliability of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000. In addition, the snap-fit ​​connection between the locking hook component 3100 and the locking pin 3200 is a rigid connection, essentially eliminating the reliability degradation problem associated with elastic connections during long-term use. This means that connection reliability can be guaranteed for a considerable period. In other words, in this embodiment, the connection reliability of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000 can be high, and correspondingly, the signal transmission between them can be relatively stable, with relatively high signal transmission quality.

[0063] It should be understood that in some other implementations of the embodiments of this application, as shown in FIG3, the locking hook component 3100 may also be rotatably connected to the second connecting unit 2000, and the locking pin 3200 may be disposed in the first connecting unit 1000. In this way, the locking hook component 3100 can be rotated to lock and unlock the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000. For ease of description, the following embodiments of this application will be described using the example of the locking hook component 3100 being rotatably connected to the first connecting unit 1000 and the locking pin 3200 being disposed in the second connecting unit 2000.

[0064] Please refer to Figures 4-9. Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the first implementation of the locking hook component; Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of the second implementation of the locking hook component; Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of the third implementation of the locking hook component; Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of the fourth implementation of the locking hook component; Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the fifth implementation of the locking hook component; and Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of the sixth implementation of the locking hook component.

[0065] As shown in Figures 4-6, in this embodiment, the locking hook component 3100 may include a connecting beam portion 3110 and two locking hook beam portions 3120. The two locking hook beam portions 3120 may be spaced apart from the connecting beam portion 3110 to improve the structural strength of the locking hook component 3100. The connecting beam portion 3110 and the two locking hook beam portions 3120 may be an integrally formed structure, thus simplifying the manufacturing of the locking hook component 3100. Alternatively, the connecting beam portion 3110 and the two locking hook beam portions 3120 may be manufactured separately and then assembled. Specific assembly processes may include welding, riveting, bonding, screw connection, etc., which are not limited here, as long as the reliability of the connection can be guaranteed. Both locking hook beam portions 3120 may be rotatably connected to the first connecting unit 1000. In this case, the number of locking pins 3200 may also be two, and the two locking pins 3200 may be arranged spaced apart around the circumference of the second connecting unit 2000.

[0066] In the locked position, the two locking hook beams 3120 can respectively engage with the two locking pins 3200 along the first axis direction P, which can improve the connection reliability of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000. Furthermore, the two locking hook beams 3120 can rotate synchronously under the drive of the connecting beam 3110, making operation more convenient.

[0067] In some alternative implementations, the connecting beam 3110 may include a first base 3111 and a first latch 3112. In the locked position, referring to FIG. 1 above, the first base 3111 and the first latch 3112 may be arranged along the first axial direction P. The first base 3111 may be in contact with the outer wall surface of the second connecting unit 2000 to improve the stability of the locking hook component 3100 in the locked position. The first latch 3112 may have a gap with the outer wall surface of the first connecting unit 1000. This gap can serve as an operating gap, allowing the user to insert their fingers or other operating tools into the gap to apply an unlocking driving force to the connecting beam 3110, thereby facilitating the rotation of the locking hook component 3100 and allowing it to switch from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0068] Referring to Figures 2, 4, and 6, the first latch 3112 may have a first latch surface 3112A. In the locked position, the first latch surface 3112A may face the first connecting unit 1000. Specifically, the first latch surface 3112A may be an arc-shaped cylindrical surface. At this time, along the first axis direction P, in the direction away from the first base 3111 (i.e., from right to left in Figure 1), the gap between the first latch surface 3112A and the second connecting unit 2000 may gradually increase, making it easier to apply rotational driving force to the locking hook component 3100.

[0069] It should be understood that the structural form of the first buckle surface 3112A is not limited to the aforementioned arc-shaped cylindrical surface. In some other implementations of this application, the first buckle surface 3112A can also adopt other surface shapes, as long as the aforementioned gap can be formed. For example, the first buckle surface 3112A can also be a plane, and in the locked position, the first buckle surface 3112A can be set at an angle to the first axial direction P. Alternatively, the first buckle surface 3112A can still be a plane, and in the locked position, the first buckle surface 3112A can be parallel to the first axial direction P and can form a gap between it and the second connecting unit 2000. Furthermore, the first buckle surface 3112A can also be a combination of multiple planes set at an angle, or a combination of multiple curved surfaces, or a combination of a plane and a curved surface, etc. In short, as long as the aforementioned gap can ultimately be formed.

[0070] The aforementioned first buckle face 3112A can be formed by bending the first buckle portion 3112 as a whole. In this case, the first buckle portion 3112 itself is a curved panel (as shown in Figure 2). The first buckle portion 3112 has a opposing wall surface 3112B that is disposed opposite to the first buckle face 3112A. The shape of the opposing wall surface 3112B can be substantially the same as that of the first buckle face 3112A. Alternatively, the aforementioned first buckle face 3112A can also be formed by cutting the side of the first buckle portion 3112 facing the second connecting unit 2000. In this case, the shape of the opposing wall surface 3112B can be the same as or different from that of the first buckle face 3112A.

[0071] In addition, in practice, the connecting beam 3110 may only include the first buckle 3112 mentioned above, that is, the connecting beam 3110 may be a whole and there may be a gap between the second connecting unit 2000, which is also feasible.

[0072] The locking beam 3120 may include a base beam 3121 and a hook 3122.

[0073] The base beam 3121 may be provided with a mounting hole 3121A, through which the base beam 3121 can be inserted into the hinge shaft 1100. Therefore, the axial direction of the mounting hole 3121A is also the aforementioned second axial direction Q. Bearings, bushings, or other transitional components may be provided between the base beam 3121 and the hinge shaft 1100 to reduce direct wear on both components and improve the smoothness of rotation of the base beam 3121 relative to the hinge shaft 1100. Of course, in specific implementations, the aforementioned transitional components may not be present between the base beam 3121 and the hinge shaft 1100; in this case, the connection structure between the base beam 3121 and the hinge shaft 1100 can be relatively simple.

[0074] Both the hook 3122 and the connecting beam 3110 can be located on the base beam 3121. The hook 3122 is used to engage with the locking post 3200 along the first axis direction P.

[0075] In some alternative implementations, as shown in Figures 1, 4, and 5, in the locked position, both the connecting beam 3110 and the hook 3122 can be located on the same side of the mounting hole 3121A along the first axial direction P. In this case, the dimension of the hook component 3100 in the first axial direction P can be relatively short, and the installation space occupied can be relatively small, effectively reducing the possibility of interference between the hook component 3100 and other components during installation and use.

[0076] It should be understood that the relative positional relationship between the connecting beam 3110, the hook 3122, and the base beam 3121 is not limited to the above description. In some other implementations of the embodiments of this application, there may be other relative positions between the connecting beam 3110, the hook 3122, and the base beam 3121, as long as it does not affect the use. For example, referring to FIG6, in the locking hook component 3100, the hook 3122 and the connecting beam 3110 may be located at the two ends of the base beam 3121, respectively. In this way, in the locked position, the connecting beam 3110 and the hook 3122 may be located on both sides of the mounting hole 3121A along the first axis direction P.

[0077] In some alternative implementations, the base beam 3121 may include a second base portion 3121C and a second handle portion 3121D.

[0078] The second base 3121C is used to fit against the first connecting unit 1000 along the second axis direction Q to reduce the relative swaying of the locking hook component 3100 and the first connecting unit 1000 along the second axis direction Q, thereby improving the installation reliability of the locking hook component 3100 in the first connecting unit 1000.

[0079] As shown in Figure 4, the side of the second latch portion 3121D facing the first connecting unit 1000 along the second axis direction Q is the second latch surface 3121D1. A gap may exist between the second latch surface 3121D1 and the first connecting unit 1000. This gap can serve as an operating gap, allowing the user to easily apply driving force to the second latch portion 3121D to facilitate the installation or disassembly of the base beam 3121 and the hinge shaft 1100, thereby improving the assembly and disassembly efficiency of the signal connector provided in this embodiment. The specific molding method of the second latch portion 3121D and the structural form of the second latch surface 3121D1 can be referred to the aforementioned descriptions of the first latch portion 3112 and the first latch surface 3112A, and will not be repeated here.

[0080] It should be understood that in some other implementations of the embodiments of this application, the base beam 3121 may not include the second base 3121C described above. That is, the base beam 3121 may also have a gap between it and the first connecting unit 1000 along the second axis direction Q. In this way, when the base beam 3121 rotates around the second axis direction Q, there will be less wear between the base beam 3121 and the first connecting unit 1000, which is also beneficial to improving the smoothness of the rotation of the base beam 3121.

[0081] In some optional implementations, as shown in Figure 5, a guide groove 3121B can be provided on the portion of the base beam 3121 facing the first connecting unit 1000 along the second axis direction Q. This guide groove 3121B can communicate with the mounting hole 3121A and can extend to the outer wall surface of the base beam 3121. With this configuration, when assembling or disassembling the base beam 3121 and the first connecting unit 1000, the guide groove 3121B can accommodate the hinge shaft 1100 and guide it, facilitating the entry and exit of the hinge shaft 1100 into or out of the mounting hole 3121A, thereby improving the assembly and disassembly efficiency of the signal connector provided in this embodiment.

[0082] In this implementation, the base beam 3121 may not have the aforementioned second buckle portion 3121D to simplify the structural form of the base beam 3121. Of course, it is also feasible for the base beam 3121 to retain the aforementioned second buckle portion 3121D.

[0083] In some alternative implementations, the latch 3122 may be provided with a locking groove 3122A, which may have two groove sidewalls (not shown in the figure) arranged opposite each other in the first axial direction P. In the locked position, the locking pin 3200 may be inserted into the locking groove 3122A, and both groove sidewalls may abut against the locking pin 3200 along the first axial direction P. This can greatly improve the connection reliability of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000.

[0084] Referring to Figure 7, the aforementioned groove sidewall may include a guide wall surface 3122B and an engaging wall surface 3122C. Referring to the orientation and positional relationship in Figure 7, at least a portion of the guide wall surface 3122B may be angled to the vertical direction. Two opposing guide wall surfaces 3122B can be combined to form a gradually widening flare from top to bottom, facilitating the insertion of the locking pin 3200 into the locking groove 3122A. The engaging wall surface 3122C may be curved, and its shape may generally match the outer wall surface of the locking pin 3200. Thus, after the locking pin 3200 enters the locking groove 3122A, the locking pin 3200 and the engaging wall surface 3122C can fit together well, significantly improving the reliability and stability of the connection between the hook 3122 and the locking pin 3200.

[0085] Furthermore, an engaging step surface 3122D can be formed between the engaging wall surface 3122C and the guide wall surface 3122B. This engaging step surface 3122D can form a stop with the locking pin 3200, thereby increasing the difficulty for the locking pin 3200 to disengage from the locking groove 3122A to a certain extent, thus further improving the connection reliability between the locking hook component 3100 and the locking pin 3200.

[0086] It should be understood that the above-described implementation of the locking groove 3122A is merely an exemplary description of the embodiment of this application in conjunction with FIG7, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment. Under the condition of satisfying the function, the hook 3122 may also adopt other structural forms. For example, referring to FIG8, the hook 3122 may not have the aforementioned locking groove 3122A, but may only retain the guide wall surface 3122B, the engaging wall surface 3122C, and the engaging step surface 3122D. In actual use, the guide wall surface 3122B can still guide the locking post 3200, the engaging wall surface 3122C can still fit against the outer wall surface of the locking post 3200, and the engaging step surface 3122D can still stop the locking post 3200. In the locked position, the hook 3122 can be entirely located on one side of the locking post 3200 in the first axial direction P, and can engage with the locking post 3200 along the first axial direction P. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the latch 3122 may not have the aforementioned locking groove 3122A, and may also not have the aforementioned guide wall surface 3122B, engaging wall surface 3122C, and engaging step surface 3122D. The latch 3122 may only have an abutting wall surface 3122E. Referring to the orientation and positional relationship in Figure 9, the abutting wall surface 3122E can basically extend in the vertical direction. In the locked position, the latch 3122 can be located entirely on one side of the locking pin 3200 in the first axial direction P, and the abutting wall surface 3122E can stop the locking pin 3200 along the first axial direction P.

[0087] The locking hook component 3100 may be provided with at least one weight-reducing hole 3130 to reduce the weight of the locking hook component 3100, reduce the material consumption of the locking hook component 3100, and reduce the manufacturing cost of the locking hook component 3100.

[0088] In the above-described implementations, the embodiments of this application all use the locking hook component 3100, which includes a connecting beam portion 3110 and a locking hook beam portion 3120, as an example for explanation. In addition, in some other implementations of the embodiments of this application, the locking hook component 3100 may only include the locking hook beam portion 3120. In this case, the structural form of the locking hook component 3100 can be relatively simple. In this implementation, the number of locking hook components 3100 can be one. Alternatively, the number of locking hook components 3100 can be multiple, and the multiple locking hook components 3100 can be rotated separately to cooperate with different locking pins 3200 for locking or unlocking.

[0089] Please refer to Figures 10-13. Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of one implementation of the signal connector provided in the embodiment of this application; Figure 11 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 10; Figure 12 is a structural schematic diagram of a modified version of Figure 11; and Figure 13 is a structural schematic diagram of another modified version of Figure 11.

[0090] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the first connecting unit 1000 may include an outer sleeve 1200, which has a first axial end face 1210. The second connecting unit 2000 may include a first inner insertion portion 2100, a portion of which has an external thread 2110. The first inner insertion portion 2100 can be inserted into the outer sleeve 1200, and the outer sleeve 1200 can cover the external thread 2110 to shield and protect it. In some descriptions, the first connecting unit 1000 including the outer sleeve 1200 is also referred to as a male connector, and the second connecting unit 2000 including the first inner insertion portion 2100 is also referred to as a female connector.

[0091] The signal connector provided in this application embodiment may further include a first sealing component 4000. The first sealing component 4000 may specifically be an elastomer made of a material with a certain elastic deformation capability, such as rubber, latex, or silicone.

[0092] In specific installation, the first sealing component 4000 can be located at the end of the outer sleeve 1200 near the first axial end face 1210 (left end in Figure 11) and between the second connecting unit 2000. This seals the gap between the outer sleeve 1200 and the first inner insertion portion 2100, thereby reducing the entry of external dust, moisture, and other impurities into the signal connector and their impact on its normal operation. Furthermore, this structural design provides good protection for the external thread 2110, reducing the erosion of the external thread 2110 by dust, moisture, and other impurities, ensuring the structural integrity of the external thread 2110 over a longer period.

[0093] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the outer sleeve 1200 and the first inner insert 2100 are not threaded together; that is, the outer sleeve 1200 and the aforementioned external thread 2110 do not require thread engagement. Therefore, the external thread 2110 is provided in this embodiment primarily to improve the versatility of the signal connector. In practical applications, even if the first connecting unit 1000 or the locking unit 3000 is damaged, the second connecting unit 2000 in the signal connector provided in this embodiment can still be used with the male connector of related technologies, without being rendered completely unusable.

[0094] Referring to Figure 11, the first inner insertion portion 2100 can be provided with a first annular groove 2130, and the first sealing component 4000 can be disposed in the first annular groove 2130 to improve the installation stability of the first sealing component 4000. After installation, the inner wall surface of the outer sleeve 1200 can contact the first sealing component 4000, thereby sealing the radial gap between the outer sleeve 1200 and the first inner insertion portion 2100. In a specific design, the first annular groove 2130 can also be provided in the outer sleeve 1200, which can also achieve the installation of the first sealing component 4000.

[0095] It should be understood that the above description of the specific structural form and installation method of the first sealing component 4000 is only an exemplary description made in conjunction with FIG11 in this application embodiment, and it cannot be regarded as a limitation on the implementation scope of the signal connector provided in this application embodiment. Under the condition of satisfying the function, the first sealing component 4000 can also adopt other structural forms and installation methods. For example, referring to FIG12, the second connecting unit 2000 can be provided with a first stepped surface 2200. The first stepped surface 2200 can be set at an angle with the first axial direction P, and the angle can be 90 degrees, etc. The first sealing component 4000 can be disposed between the first stepped surface 2200 and the first axial end face 1210, so that the gap between the outer sleeve 1200 and the first inner insertion part 2100 can also be sealed. In this implementation, the first annular groove 2130 can be provided, or the first annular groove 2130 can be omitted, which can be determined according to the actual needs. For example, referring to Figure 13, the second connecting unit 2000 may be provided with a first stepped surface 2200. The first stepped surface 2200 may be set at an angle to the first axial direction P, such as 90 degrees. The first sealing component 4000 may include a radial sealing part 4100 and an axial sealing part 4200. The radial sealing part 4100 may be located radially inside the outer sleeve 1200, and the axial sealing part 4200 may be located between the first stepped surface 2200 and the first axial end face 1210. In this way, the first sealing component 4000 can simultaneously achieve axial sealing, radial sealing, and circumferential sealing, and the sealing reliability can be higher. In this implementation, the first annular groove 2130 may be provided, or the first annular groove 2130 may not be provided, depending on the actual needs.

[0096] In some optional implementations, as shown in Figures 10-13, the signal connector provided in the embodiments of this application may further include a second sealing component 5000. The second sealing component 5000 may specifically be an elastomer made of a material with a certain elastic deformation capability, such as rubber, latex, or silicone.

[0097] The first connecting unit 1000 may have a second stepped surface 1400, which may be set at an angle to the first axial direction P, specifically, the angle may be 90 degrees, etc. The first insert portion 2100 may have a second axial end face 2120, and the second sealing member 5000 may be located between the second axial end face 2120 and the second stepped surface 1400, which can further enhance the sealing performance between the first insert portion 2100 and the first connecting unit 1000.

[0098] In some optional implementations, as shown in Figures 10-13, the signal connector provided in this embodiment may further include a third sealing component 6000. Specifically, the third sealing component 6000 may be an elastomer made of a material with a certain elastic deformation capability, such as rubber, latex, or silicone. The first connecting unit 1000 may have a second insert portion 1300. At least a portion of the first insert portion 2100 may also be cylindrical, and the second insert portion 1300 can be inserted into the first insert portion 2100. The third sealing component 6000 may be disposed between the first insert portion 2100 and the second insert portion 1300 to achieve radial sealing between the first insert portion 2100 and the second insert portion 1300. To facilitate the installation of the third sealing component 6000, the first insert portion 2100 or the second insert portion 1300 may be provided with a second annular groove 1310 to improve the installation stability of the third sealing component 6000.

[0099] In practical applications, the first sealing component 4000, the second sealing component 5000, and the third sealing component 6000 can all be provided to form multiple seals between the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000, thereby enhancing the sealing performance between the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000, as well as the overall anti-interference performance of the signal connector formed by the combination of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000.

[0100] It should be understood that the second sealing component 5000 and the third sealing component 6000 can also be combined to adopt a structure similar to the first sealing component 4000 shown in Figure 13. In this way, the number of sealing components used can be relatively small, and the installation process of the signal connector can be simplified to a certain extent.

[0101] Please refer to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 is a connection structure diagram of the second connecting unit, the locking pin, and the first sealing component; Figure 15 is a structural schematic diagram of the first connecting unit.

[0102] In some optional implementations, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the first inner insert 2100 can be provided with a limiting groove 2140, and the outer sleeve 1200 can be provided with a limiting block 1220. During assembly, the limiting block 1220 can be inserted into the limiting groove 2140, restricting the relative rotation between the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000, further improving the connection reliability of the first connecting unit 1000 and the second connecting unit 2000. Furthermore, the cooperation between the limiting block 1220 and the limiting groove 2140 can also serve a positioning and guiding function, improving the smoothness of insertion of the first inner insert 2100 and the outer sleeve 1200, and also having a relatively positive significance in ensuring the accurate connection of the locking hook component 3100 and the locking pin 3200.

[0103] The number of limit blocks 1220 and limit slots 2140 can both be one. Alternatively, the number of limit blocks 1220 and limit slots 2140 can both be greater than or equal to two, and the number of limit blocks 1220 and limit slots 2140 can be the same. In specific assembly, each limit block 1220 can be inserted into each limit slot 2140 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0104] It should be understood that in practical applications, the limiting groove 2140 can also be set in the outer sleeve 1200, and the limiting block 1220 can also be set in the first inner insertion part 2100, so that the above-mentioned functions can also be performed.

[0105] This document uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the methods and core ideas of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to this application without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A signal connector, characterized in that, The signal connector has a first axial direction and includes a first connecting unit, a second connecting unit, and a locking unit. The second connecting unit can be connected to the first connecting unit along the first axial direction. The locking unit includes a locking hook component and a locking pin. The locking hook component is rotatably connected to one of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit, and the locking pin is disposed on the other of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit. The locking hook component can switch between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the locked position, the locking hook component can engage with the locking pin along the first axial direction.

2. The signal connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking hook component includes a connecting beam and two locking hook beams. The two locking hook beams are spaced apart from each other on the connecting beam. Both locking hook beams are rotatably connected to one of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit. There are two locking pins. In the locked position, the two locking hook beams can respectively engage with the two locking pins along the first axis.

3. The signal connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting beam includes a first buckle, and in the locked position, the outer wall surfaces of the first buckle and the other of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit are separated.

4. The signal connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking hook beam includes a base beam and a hook. The base beam is provided with a mounting hole. The hook and the connecting beam are both located on the base beam. The hook is used to engage with the locking post along the first axis direction. In the locked position, the connecting beam and the hook are located on opposite sides of the mounting hole along the first axis; or, in the locked position, the connecting beam and the hook are both located on the same side of the mounting hole along the first axis.

5. The signal connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along the axial direction of the mounting hole, a guide groove is provided on the portion of the base beam facing the first connecting unit and the other of the second connecting units. The guide groove is connected to the mounting hole and extends to the outer wall surface of the base beam.

6. The signal connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base beam includes a second buckle, and the second buckle is spaced apart from one of the first connecting unit and the second connecting unit.

7. The signal connector according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The locking hook component has a latch; The hook is provided with a locking groove, and in the locked position, the locking pin is inserted into the locking groove; or, in the locked position, the hook is located entirely on one side of the locking pin in the direction of the first axis.

8. The signal connector according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first connecting unit includes an outer sleeve, and the second connecting unit includes a first inner insert, the first inner insert being able to be inserted into the outer sleeve; In the first inner part and the outer part, one is provided with a limiting groove and the other is provided with a limiting block, and the limiting block can be inserted into the limiting groove.

9. The signal connector according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first connecting unit includes an outer sleeve having a first axial end face; the second connecting unit includes a first inner insert having the ability to be inserted into the outer sleeve; a portion of the first inner insert has an external thread, and the outer sleeve covers the external thread. It also includes a first sealing component, which is disposed between the end of the outer sleeve near the first axial end face and the second connecting unit.

10. The signal connector according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first inner portion or the outer portion is provided with a first annular groove, and the first sealing member is disposed in the first annular groove; or... The second connecting unit is provided with a first stepped surface, which is set at an angle to the first axial direction, and the first sealing member is disposed between the first stepped surface and the first axial end face; or, The second connecting unit is provided with a first stepped surface, which is set at an angle to the first axial direction. The first sealing component includes a radial sealing part and an axial sealing part. The radial sealing part is located on the radial inner side of the outer sleeve, and the axial sealing part is located between the first stepped surface and the first axial end face.

11. The signal connector according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a second sealing component. The first connecting unit has a second stepped surface, which is set at an angle to the first axial direction. The first insert has a second axial end face, and the second sealing component is located between the second axial end face and the second stepped surface.

12. The signal connector according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a third sealing component. The first connecting unit includes a second inner insertion portion. At least a portion of the first inner insertion portion is cylindrical. The second inner insertion portion can be inserted into the first inner insertion portion along the first axis direction. The third sealing component is disposed between the first inner insertion portion and the second inner insertion portion.

Images