Locking Sleeve Connector Assembly for Tight-Space Quick Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies face challenges in achieving bidirectional cut-off functionality, quick connection in small spaces, and compatibility across various application scenarios, particularly in battery packs of new energy vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly design featuring a female connector with a rotatable locking sleeve and a male connector with a locking protrusion, allowing for straight insertion and locking without rotational operation, along with interchangeable configurations to reduce manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the housing of the female connector is rotated during connection, then the connector can be locked, but rotational resistance from the fluid pipeline increases and stress at the connection point increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the housing to achieve locking, the patent inverts the approach by having the locking sleeve rotate independently while the housing remains stationary. The locking sleeve is configured to rotate relative to the first tubular body, and the locking protrusion on the second tubular body engages with the guiding groove and locking groove on the locking sleeve to achieve locking without rotating the housing. This eliminates rotational resistance from the fluid pipeline and reduces stress at the connection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the rotation function from the housing to a dedicated locking sleeve component. The locking sleeve is a separate rotatable element that carries the guiding groove and locking groove, allowing the locking operation to be isolated from the housing and fluid pipeline connection. This segmentation enables independent rotation of the locking mechanism without affecting the stationary housing and connected pipeline.
2Reliability
If a traditional locking mechanism is used, then bidirectional cut-off function is achieved, but the connection requires more space and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bidirectional cut-off function with the locking operation. The locking sleeve serves dual purposes: it provides the locking mechanism through the guiding groove and locking groove engagement, and simultaneously acts as the cut-off valve mechanism. When the locking sleeve rotates to engage the locking protrusion, it also positions the valve core to block the flow passage, achieving both locking and bidirectional cut-off in a single integrated action, thereby reducing connection time and space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking sleeve is designed as a multi-functional component that combines locking and flow control functions. It features both the guiding groove and locking groove for mechanical locking, and the valve core for bidirectional flow cut-off. This universal component performs multiple functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall connection time and space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is designed for specific applications, then performance is optimized, but manufacturing cost increases due to multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the connector with universal adaptability through the standardized locking sleeve mechanism that can accommodate different application requirements. The locking sleeve with its guiding groove and locking groove can work with various second tubular bodies configured for different applications (e.g., different valve assembly configurations for battery packs or other fluid systems). This universal locking mechanism allows a single base design to serve multiple applications without requiring separate manufacturing lines, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining application-specific optimization capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly is provided. The connector assembly includes a male connector for connecting with a female connector. The female connector includes: a housing; a first tubular body received within and fixed to the housing; and a locking sleeve rotatably sleeved outside the first tubular body and including a guiding groove and a locking groove. The guiding groove and the locking groove are arranged on a circumferential wall of the locking sleeve and are connected to each other. The male connector includes: a casing; and a second tubular body received within and fixed to the casing and including a locking protrusion arranged on an outer periphery thereof. The connector assembly is configured to realize the connecting and locking of the female connector and the male connector in a small operation space.