CN217087011U

CN217087011U - Connector assembly

Info

Publication number: CN217087011U
Application number: CN202220060299.XU
Authority: CN
Inventors: 董爱兵; 姚李强; 王勇; 王迎春; 甘海波
Original assignee: Tyco Electronics Shanghai Co Ltd
Current assignee: Tyco Electronics Shanghai Co Ltd
Priority date: 2022-01-11
Filing date: 2022-01-11
Publication date: 2022-07-29
Anticipated expiration: 2032-01-11

Abstract

The utility model discloses a connector assembly, include: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device detachably mounted on one of the first connector and the second connector, the locking device being used for locking the first connector and the second connector in a mating state. The utility model discloses in, can realize locking fast through locking device to two connectors of joining in marriage to can realize the unblock of two connectors fast through operation locking device, it is very convenient to use.

Description

Connector assembly

Technical Field

The utility model relates to a connector assembly.

Background

Along with the rapid development of energy storage systems, the demand of current connectors for energy storage is increasing, and along with the demand, various high-current connectors appear in the market, and along with the development of energy storage systems, stricter and more standard requirements are provided for the electric connectors. In the prior art, the following problems generally exist with high current connectors: the unlocking is inconvenient after the male end and the female end are mutually matched, the quick locking function is not available or unreasonable, and the unlocking is not flexible; the function of preventing finger touch is not provided; the waterproof performance of IP67 cannot be satisfied; the rotation of 360 degrees can not be met before the mutual matching is in place or the rotation is still realized after the mutual matching; the structure is not compact and the operation is not convenient.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

The object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the above problems and drawbacks existing in the prior art.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly, comprising: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device detachably mounted on one of the first connector and the second connector, the locking device being used for locking the first connector and the second connector in a mating state.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first connector comprises: a first housing having a front end and a plurality of key teeth formed on an outer circumferential surface of the front end; and a first terminal provided in the first housing. The second connector includes: a second housing having an insertion cavity and having a plurality of key grooves formed on an inner circumferential wall of the insertion cavity; and a second terminal provided in the second housing. When the front end of the first housing is inserted into the insertion cavity of the second housing, the key teeth engage with the key grooves, and the first terminal is electrically connected with the second terminal.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first housing is movable relative to the second housing between a pre-installation position and an installation position; the key teeth are not engaged with the key slots when the first housing is in the pre-load position to allow the first housing to rotate relative to the second housing; the key teeth engage the key slots when the first housing is in the installed position to inhibit rotation of the first housing relative to the second housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the locking device is mounted in the second housing of the second connector; when the first housing is in the pre-load position, the locking device is disengaged from the first housing to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing; when the first housing is in the mounting position, the locking means abuts on the rear end faces of the key teeth to lock the first connector to the second housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a lateral slot communicating with the insertion cavity is formed on the second housing, and the locking device is received and installed in the lateral slot.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device comprises: a support shaft mounted on the second housing; a pair of locking pieces mounted on the support shaft and capable of rotating around the support shaft between a locking position and an unlocking position; and a spring provided between the pair of locking pieces for holding the pair of locking pieces at the locking position. When the pair of locking pieces are in the locking position, the pair of locking pieces are adapted to abut on the rear end surfaces of the key teeth to lock the first connector to the second housing; when the pair of locking pieces is in the unlocked position, the pair of locking pieces is disengaged from the key teeth to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking member comprises: a connecting portion through which the support shaft passes; the locking arm is positioned on one side of the connecting part and is used for abutting against the rear end surfaces of the key teeth; and an operating part located at the other side of the connecting part, wherein the spring is a compression spring and is compressed between the operating parts of the pair of locking pieces. When the pair of operation portions are pressed in the direction approaching each other, the pair of lock arms move in the direction away from each other to move the pair of lock arms to the unlock position separated from the rear end surfaces of the key teeth.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first protrusion is formed on the inner side of the operation portion, and both ends of the spring are respectively fitted over the first protrusions of the pair of operation portions.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a second protrusion is formed at an outer side of the operation portion, the locking device further includes a pair of pressing caps which are respectively fitted over the second protrusion of the operation portion, so that the pair of locking arms can be moved to the unlocking position by pressing the pair of pressing caps.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a blocking portion is formed on an inner wall of the lateral insertion groove of the second housing, the blocking portion being adapted to abut on an end of the locking arm to block the pair of locking arms at the locking position.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device is mounted on the first housing of the first connector, and an outwardly convex flange is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the second housing; when the first housing is in the pre-load position, the locking device is disengaged from the second housing to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing; when the first housing is in the mounting position, the locking device abuts on a rear end face of the flange to lock the first connector to the second housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a mounting flange is formed on the first housing extending in a radial direction, a pair of mounting plates is formed on the mounting flange, and the locking device is disposed between and mounted on the pair of mounting plates.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device comprises: a support shaft, both ends of which are respectively mounted on the pair of mounting plates; a locking member mounted on the support shaft and rotatable about the support shaft between a locked position and an unlocked position; and a spring, sleeved on the supporting shaft and connected between the supporting shaft and the locking piece, for keeping the locking piece at the locking position; when the lock member is in the lock position, the lock member is adapted to abut on a rear end surface of the flange to lock the first connector to the second housing; when the lock member is in the unlocked position, the lock member is disengaged from the flange to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking member comprises: a connecting portion through which the support shaft passes; a lock arm connected to the connecting portion for abutting against a rear end surface of the flange; the operating part is connected with the connecting part, the spring is a torsion spring, and two ends of the spring are respectively connected to the supporting shaft and the locking part; the lock arm is movable to an unlock position separated from the flange when the operating portion is pushed in a direction against a torsion force of the spring.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a coupling hole is formed at the coupling portion of the locking member, and one end of the spring is coupled to the coupling hole; a longitudinal groove is formed on the support shaft, and the other end of the spring is coupled to the longitudinal groove.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a groove is formed on an outer side of one of the pair of mounting plates, and a head of the support shaft is engaged in the groove to prevent the support shaft from rotating about an axis thereof.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a circumferential groove is formed on the end of the support shaft, the locking device further includes a retaining ring that is embedded in the circumferential groove of the support shaft and abuts on the outside of the other of the pair of mounting plates to prevent the support shaft from moving axially.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first terminal comprises a columnar end adapted to be inserted into the second terminal and a plate-shaped end for electrical connection with a connection terminal; the first connector further includes an insulative cap mounted on the cylindrical end of the first terminal to prevent a human finger from contacting an end face of the cylindrical end of the first terminal.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a through hole is formed on the insulation cap, the through hole being sized to allow a probe of a detection device to pass through and to prohibit an entry of a human finger, the probe of the detection device being capable of passing through the through hole and being in electrical contact with the first terminal.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a mounting hole is formed on an end surface of the columnar end of the first terminal, and the insulative cap is embedded in the mounting hole.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second terminal comprises a barrel end adapted to mate with the cylindrical end of the first terminal and a crimp end adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable; the second connector further includes a resilient electrical connector received in the barrel end of the second terminal and compressed between the first and second terminals to electrically connect the first and second terminals.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second housing includes a cylindrical post in the insertion cavity, the cylindrical end of the second terminal and the elastic electrical connector being received in the cylindrical post, the cylindrical post being inserted into the first housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connector further comprises a first sealing ring, the first sealing ring being fitted over the cylindrical column and extruded between the cylindrical column and the first housing to seal a gap therebetween.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second housing is L-shaped and includes a first end and a second end perpendicular to each other, the barrel end and the crimp end of the second terminal being located at the first end and the second end of the second housing, respectively; the second connector further includes a connection sleeve threaded on the second end of the second housing for securing the cable to the second housing.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connector further comprises a second sealing ring, the second sealing ring is fitted over the second end of the second housing and is pressed between the second end of the second housing and the connecting sleeve to seal a gap therebetween.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connector further comprises a sealing sleeve accommodated in the connecting sleeve and fitted over the crimping end of the second terminal and the cable; the gland is squeezed between the cable and the connection sleeve to seal the gap therebetween.

According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first housing is an integral injection molded piece that is insert injection molded on the first terminal; and/or the second housing is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded onto the second terminal.

In each of the foregoing exemplary embodiments according to the present invention, the two connectors mated with each other can be locked quickly by the locking device, and the unlocking of the two connectors can be realized quickly by operating the locking device, so that the use is very convenient.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings, and can help to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention.

Drawings

Fig. 1 shows a perspective schematic view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1;

fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the locking device and the first connector of the connector assembly shown in fig. 1;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a locking device of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a first terminal of a first connector of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 2;

fig. 8 shows a perspective schematic view of a connector assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of the connector assembly of FIG. 8;

fig. 11 shows a perspective view of the locking device and the first connector of the connector assembly shown in fig. 8;

fig. 12 shows a perspective view of the locking device and the first connector of the connector assembly shown in fig. 8, viewed from another direction;

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the locking device of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of the support shaft of the locking device of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 8;

fig. 15 shows a schematic view of a first terminal of a first connector of the connector assembly shown in fig. 9.

Detailed Description

The technical solution of the present invention is further specifically described below by way of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the specification, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar components. The following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings is intended to explain the general inventive concept and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

Furthermore, in the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the disclosure. It may be evident, however, that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in schematic form in order to simplify the drawing.

According to a general technical concept of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly, including: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device detachably mounted on one of the first connector and the second connector, the locking device being used for locking the first connector and the second connector in a mating state.

First embodiment

Fig. 1 to 7 show a connector assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, wherein fig. 1 shows a perspective schematic view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 4 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 1; fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the locking device 30 and the first connector 10 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 1.

As shown in fig. 1-5, in the illustrated embodiment, the connector assembly includes: a first connector 10, a second connector 20 and a locking device 30. The second connector 20 is adapted to mate with the first connector 10. The locking device 30 is detachably mounted on one of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20. The locking device 30 is used to lock the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in the mated state. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 is removably mounted to the second connector 20.

As shown in fig. 1 to 5, in the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 10 includes: a first housing 110 having a front end 111 and a plurality of key teeth 112 formed on an outer circumferential surface of the front end 111; and a first terminal 120 disposed in the first housing 110. The second connector 20 includes: a second housing 210 having an insertion cavity 201 and having a plurality of key grooves 212 formed on an inner circumferential wall of the insertion cavity 201; and a second terminal 220 disposed in the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 1 to 5, in the illustrated embodiment, when the front end 111 of the first housing 110 is inserted into the insertion cavity 201 of the second housing 210, the key teeth 112 are engaged with the key grooves 212, and the first terminal 120 is electrically connected to the second terminal 220.

As shown in fig. 1-5, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 110 is movable relative to the second housing 210 between a pre-assembly position and an installation position. When the first housing 110 is in the pre-load position, the key teeth 112 do not engage the key slots 212 to allow the first housing 110 to rotate relative to the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the installed position, the key teeth 112 engage the key slots 212 to inhibit rotation of the first housing 110 relative to the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 1 to 5, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 is mounted in the second housing 210 of the second connector 20. When the first housing 110 is in the pre-load position, the locking device 30 is separated from the first housing 110 to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out of the second housing 210; when the first housing 110 is in the mounting position, the locking device 30 abuts on the rear end surfaces 112a of the key teeth 112 to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 1 to 5, in the illustrated embodiment, a lateral slot 203 communicating with the insertion cavity 201 is formed on the second housing 210, and the locking device 30 is received and mounted in the lateral slot 203.

Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of the locking device of the connector assembly shown in fig. 1.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 includes: a support shaft 310 mounted on the second housing 210; a pair of locking members 320 mounted on the support shaft 310 to be rotatable around the support shaft 310 between a locking position and an unlocking position; and a spring 330 disposed between the pair of locking members 320 for maintaining the pair of locking members 320 at the locking positions.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, when the pair of locking pieces 320 are in the locking positions, the pair of locking pieces 320 are adapted to abut on the rear end surfaces 112a of the key teeth 112 to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210. When the pair of locking pieces 320 is in the unlocked position, the pair of locking pieces 320 are separated from the key teeth 112 to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out from the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 1-6, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking member 320 includes: a connecting part 323 through which the support shaft 310 passes; a lock arm 321 on one side of the connecting portion 323 for abutting on the rear end surface 112a of the key tooth 112; and an operation part 322 positioned at the other side of the connection part 323. The spring 330 is a compression spring, and the spring 330 is compressed between the operating portions 322 of the pair of locking members 320.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear end surface 112a of the key tooth 112 is a vertical surface perpendicular to the axial direction of the first connector 10, and the front end surface 112b of the key tooth 112 is an inclined guide surface inclined from the axial direction of the first connector 10 to guide the insertion of the key tooth 112 below the lock arm 321 and the passage thereof below the lock arm 321.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, when the pair of operation portions 322 are pressed in the direction approaching each other, the pair of lock arms 321 are moved in the direction away from each other to move the pair of lock arms 321 to the unlock position separated from the rear end surfaces 112a of the key teeth 112.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, a first protrusion 322b is formed inside the operation portion 322, and both ends of the spring 330 are fitted over the first protrusions 322b of the pair of operation portions 322, respectively.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, a second protrusion 322a is formed on the outer side of the operation portion 322. The locking device 30 further includes a pair of pressing caps 340. The pair of pressing caps 340 are fitted over the second protrusions 322a of the operation portion 322, respectively, so that the pair of lock arms 321 can be moved to the unlock position by pressing the pair of pressing caps 340.

As shown in fig. 1 to 6, in the illustrated embodiment, a stopper 210a is formed on an inner wall of the lateral insertion groove 203 of the second housing 210, and the stopper 210a is adapted to abut on distal ends 321a of the locking arms 321 to stop the pair of locking arms 321 in the locking position.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic view of the first terminal 120 of the first connector 10 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 2.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the first terminal 120 includes a columnar end 121 adapted to be inserted into the second terminal 220 and a plate-like end 122 for electrical connection with the connection terminal; the first connector 10 further includes an insulating cap 130 mounted on the cylindrical end 121 of the first terminal 120 to prevent a human finger from contacting an end surface of the cylindrical end 121 of the first terminal 120.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, a through hole 131 is formed on the insulation cap 130, and the through hole 131 is sized to allow a probe of a detection apparatus to pass therethrough but to inhibit a human finger from entering. The probe of the detection means can pass through the through hole 131 and electrically contact the first terminal 120.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, a mounting hole 1211 is formed on an end surface of the column end 121 of the first terminal 120, and the insulating cap 130 is fitted into the mounting hole 1211.

As shown in fig. 1-7, in the illustrated embodiment, the second terminal 220 includes a barrel end 221 adapted to mate with the barrel end 121 of the first terminal 120 and a crimp end 222 adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable; the second connector 20 further includes a resilient electrical connector 223, the resilient electrical connector 223 being received in the barrel end 221 of the second terminal 220 and compressed between the first terminal 120 and the second terminal 220 to electrically connect the first terminal 120 and the second terminal 220.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 210 includes a cylindrical post 211 in the insertion cavity 201, the cylindrical end 221 of the second terminal 220 and the elastic electrical connector 223 are received in the cylindrical post 211, and the cylindrical post 211 is inserted into the first housing 110.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 further includes a first seal ring 251, and the first seal ring 251 is fitted over the cylindrical column 211 and pressed between the cylindrical column 211 and the first housing 110 to seal a gap therebetween.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 210 is L-shaped and includes first and second ends perpendicular to each other, and the barrel end 221 and the crimp end 222 of the second terminal 220 are located at the first and second ends of the second housing 210, respectively; the second connector 20 further comprises a connection sleeve 230, the connection sleeve 230 being screwed on the second end of the second housing 210 for fixing the cable to the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 1-7, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 further includes a second sealing ring 252, and the second sealing ring 252 is fitted over the second end of the second housing 210 and compressed between the second end of the second housing 210 and the connection sleeve 230 to seal a gap therebetween.

As shown in fig. 1-7, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 further includes a boot seal 240, the boot seal 240 being received in the connection sleeve 230 and being fitted over the cable and the crimp end 222 of the second terminal 220; gland 240 is squeezed between the cable and connection sleeve 230 to seal the gap between the two.

As shown in fig. 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 110 is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded on the first terminal 120; and/or second housing 210 is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded over second terminal 220.

Second embodiment

Fig. 8 to 15 show a connector assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention, wherein fig. 8 shows a perspective schematic view of a connector assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention; FIG. 9 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connector assembly shown in FIG. 8; FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of the connector assembly of FIG. 8; fig. 11 shows a perspective view of the locking device 30 and the first connector 10 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 8; fig. 12 shows a perspective view of the locking device 30 and the first connector 10 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 8, viewed from another direction.

As shown in fig. 8-12, in the illustrated embodiment, the connector assembly includes: a first connector 10, a second connector 20 and a locking device 30. The second connector 20 is adapted to mate with the first connector 10. The locking device 30 is detachably mounted on one of the first connector 10 and the second connector 20. The locking device 30 is used to lock the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in the mated state. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 is removably mounted on the first connector 10.

As shown in fig. 8 to 12, in the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 10 includes: a first housing 110 having a front end 111 and a plurality of key teeth 112 formed on an outer circumferential surface of the front end 111; and a first terminal 120 disposed in the first housing 110. The second connector 20 includes: a second housing 210 having an insertion cavity 201 and having a plurality of key grooves 212 formed on an inner circumferential wall of the insertion cavity 201; and a second terminal 220 disposed in the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 8 to 12, in the illustrated embodiment, when the front end 111 of the first housing 110 is inserted into the insertion cavity 201 of the second housing 210, the key teeth 112 are engaged with the key grooves 212, and the first terminal 120 is electrically connected to the second terminal 220.

As shown in fig. 8-12, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 110 is movable relative to the second housing 210 between a pre-assembly position and an installation position. When the first housing 110 is in the pre-load position, the key teeth 112 do not engage the key slots 212 to allow the first housing 110 to rotate relative to the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the installed position, the key teeth 112 engage the key slots 212 to inhibit rotation of the first housing 110 relative to the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 8 to 12, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 is mounted on the first housing 110 of the first connector 10, and a flange 215 protruding outward is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the pre-load position, the locking device 30 is separated from the second housing 210 to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out of the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the mounting position, the locking device 30 abuts on the rear end face 215a of the flange 215 to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 8 to 12, in the illustrated embodiment, a mounting flange 115 extending in the radial direction is formed on the first housing 110, a pair of mounting plates 113 is formed on the mounting flange 115, and the lock device 30 is disposed between the pair of mounting plates 113 and mounted on the pair of mounting plates 113.

Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of the locking device 30 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 8; fig. 14 shows a perspective view of the support shaft 310 of the locking device 30 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 8.

As shown in fig. 8 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 includes: support shafts 310, both ends of which are respectively mounted on the pair of mounting plates 113; a locking member 320 mounted on the support shaft 310 to be rotatable about the support shaft 310 between a locking position and an unlocking position; and a spring 330 fitted around the support shaft 310 and connected between the support shaft 310 and the locking member 320 for maintaining the locking member 320 at the locking position.

As shown in fig. 8 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, when the locking piece 320 is in the locking position, the locking piece 320 is adapted to abut on the rear end surface 215a of the flange 215 to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210. When the locking piece 320 is in the unlocked position, the locking piece 320 is separated from the flange 215 to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out of the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 8-14, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking member 320 includes: a connecting part 323 through which the support shaft 310 passes; a lock arm 321 connected to the connecting portion 323 for abutting on the rear end surface 215a of the flange 215; and an operation unit 322 connected to the connection unit 323. The spring 330 is a torsion spring, and both ends of the spring 330 are connected to the support shaft 310 and the locking member 320, respectively. When the operating portion 322 is pushed in the direction against the torsion force of the spring 330, the lock arm 321 can be moved to the unlock position separated from the flange 215.

As shown in fig. 8 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear end surface 215a of the flange 215 is a vertical surface perpendicular to the axial direction of the second connector 20, and the front end surface 215b of the flange 215 is an inclined guide surface inclined from the axial direction of the second connector 20 so as to guide the flange 215 to be inserted below the lock arm 321 and to pass below the lock arm 321.

As shown in fig. 8 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, a coupling hole 323a is formed at the coupling portion 323 of the locking member 320, and one end 331 of the spring 330 is coupled to the coupling hole 323 a. A longitudinal groove 314 is formed on the support shaft 310, and the other end of the spring 330 is coupled to the longitudinal groove 314.

As shown in fig. 8 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, a groove 114 is formed on the outer side of one of the pair of mounting plates 113, and a head portion 311 of the support shaft 310 is engaged in the groove 114 to prevent the support shaft 310 from rotating about its axis.

As shown in fig. 8 to 14, in the illustrated embodiment, a circumferential groove 313 is formed on the distal end 312 of the support shaft 310, and the locking device 30 further includes a retaining ring 350, the retaining ring 350 being fitted in the circumferential groove 313 of the support shaft 310 and abutting against the outer side of the other of the pair of mounting plates 113 to prevent the support shaft 310 from moving axially.

Fig. 15 shows a schematic view of the first terminal 120 of the first connector 10 of the connector assembly shown in fig. 9.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the first terminal 120 includes a columnar end 121 adapted to be inserted into the second terminal 220 and a plate-like end 122 for electrical connection with the connection terminal; the first connector 10 further includes an insulating cap 130 mounted on the cylindrical end 121 of the first terminal 120 to prevent a human finger from contacting an end surface of the cylindrical end 121 of the first terminal 120.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, a through hole 131 is formed on the insulation cap 130, and the through hole 131 is sized to allow a probe of a detection apparatus to pass therethrough but to inhibit a human finger from entering. The probe of the detection means can pass through the through hole 131 and electrically contact the first terminal 120.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, a mounting hole 1211 is formed in an end surface of the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120, and the insulating cap 130 is fitted into the mounting hole 1211.

As shown in fig. 8-15, in the illustrated embodiment, the second terminal 220 includes a barrel end 221 adapted to mate with the barrel end 121 of the first terminal 120 and a crimp end 222 adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable; the second connector 20 further includes a resilient electrical connector 223, the resilient electrical connector 223 being received in the barrel end 221 of the second terminal 220 and compressed between the first terminal 120 and the second terminal 220 to electrically connect the first terminal 120 and the second terminal 220.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 220 includes a cylindrical post 211 in the insertion cavity 201, the cylindrical end 221 of the second terminal 220 and the elastic electrical connector 223 are received in the cylindrical post 211, and the cylindrical post 211 is inserted into the first housing 110.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 further includes a first seal ring 251, and the first seal ring 251 is fitted over the cylindrical column 211 and pressed between the cylindrical column 211 and the first housing 110 to seal a gap therebetween.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 210 is L-shaped and includes first and second ends perpendicular to each other, the barrel end 221 and the crimp end 222 of the second terminal 220 being located at the first and second ends of the second housing 210, respectively; the second connector 20 further comprises a connection sleeve 230, the connection sleeve 230 being screwed on the second end of the second housing 210 for fixing the cable to the second housing 210.

As shown in fig. 8-15, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 further includes a second sealing ring 252, and the second sealing ring 252 is fitted over the second end of the second housing 210 and compressed between the second end of the second housing 210 and the connection sleeve 230 to seal a gap therebetween.

As shown in fig. 8-15, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 further includes a boot seal 240, the boot seal 240 being received in the connection sleeve 230 and being fitted over the cable and the crimp end 222 of the second terminal 220; gland 240 is squeezed between the cable and connection sleeve 230 to seal the gap between the two.

As shown in fig. 8 to 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 110 is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded on the first terminal 120; and/or second housing 210 is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded over second terminal 220.

It is understood by those skilled in the art that the above described embodiments are exemplary and can be modified by those skilled in the art, and that the structures described in the various embodiments can be freely combined without conflict in structure or principle, and that these modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Although the present invention has been described in connection with the accompanying drawings, the embodiments disclosed in the drawings are intended to exemplify preferred embodiments of the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

Although a few embodiments of the present general inventive concept have been shown and described, it would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the general inventive concept, the scope of which is defined in the claims and their equivalents.

It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. Additionally, any element numbers of the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A connector assembly, comprising:

a first connector (10);

a second connector (20) adapted to mate with the first connector (10); and

a locking device (30) detachably mounted on one of the first connector (10) and the second connector (20),

the locking device (30) is used for locking the first connector (10) and the second connector (20) in a mating state.

2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein:

the first connector (10) comprises:

a first housing (110) having a front end (111) and having a plurality of key teeth (112) formed on an outer peripheral surface of the front end (111); and

a first terminal (120) provided in the first housing (110),

the second connector (20) comprises:

a second housing (210) having an insertion cavity (201) and having a plurality of key grooves (212) formed on an inner circumferential wall of the insertion cavity (201); and

a second terminal (220) provided in the second housing (210),

when the front end (111) of the first housing (110) is inserted into the insertion cavity (201) of the second housing (210), the key teeth (112) are engaged with the key grooves (212), and the first terminal (120) is electrically connected with the second terminal (220).

3. The connector assembly of claim 2, wherein:

the first housing (110) being movable relative to the second housing (210) between a pre-installed position and an installed position;

when the first housing (110) is in the pre-load position, the key teeth (112) do not engage the key slots (212) to allow the first housing (110) to rotate relative to the second housing (210);

the key teeth (112) engage the key slots (212) when the first housing (110) is in the installed position to inhibit rotation of the first housing (110) relative to the second housing (210).

4. The connector assembly of claim 3, wherein:

the locking device (30) is mounted in a second housing (210) of the second connector (20);

-when the first housing (110) is in the pre-assembly position, the locking means (30) are disengaged from the first housing (110) to allow the first connector (10) to be pulled out of the second housing (210);

when the first housing (110) is in the mounting position, the locking device (30) abuts on a rear end face of the key teeth (112) to lock the first connector (10) to the second housing (210).

5. The connector assembly of claim 4, wherein:

a lateral slot (203) communicating with the insertion cavity (201) is formed on the second housing (210), and the locking device (30) is received and mounted in the lateral slot (203).

6. The connector assembly of claim 5, wherein:

the locking device (30) comprises:

a support shaft (310) mounted on the second housing (210);

a pair of locking members (320) mounted on the support shaft (310) to be rotatable around the support shaft (310) between a locking position and an unlocking position; and

a spring (330) disposed between the pair of locking pieces (320) for holding the pair of locking pieces (320) at the locking position,

the pair of locking pieces (320) being adapted to abut on rear end faces of the key teeth (112) when the pair of locking pieces (320) are in the locking position to lock the first connector (10) to the second housing (210),

when the pair of locking pieces (320) are in the unlocked position, the pair of locking pieces (320) are disengaged from the key teeth (112) to allow the first connector (10) to be pulled out from the second housing (210).

7. The connector assembly of claim 6, wherein:

the lock (320) includes:

a connecting portion (323) through which the support shaft (310) passes;

a lock arm (321) located on one side of the connecting portion (323) for abutting on a rear end face of the key tooth (112); and

an operation part (322) positioned on the other side of the connection part (323),

the spring (330) is a compression spring, and the spring (330) is compressed between the operation parts (322) of the pair of locking pieces (320),

when the pair of operation portions (322) are pressed in a direction approaching each other, the pair of lock arms (321) are moved in a direction separating from each other to move the pair of lock arms (321) to an unlock position separated from the rear end surfaces of the key teeth (112).

8. The connector assembly of claim 7, wherein:

a first protrusion (322b) is formed on the inner side of the operation part (322), and both ends of the spring (330) are respectively sleeved on the first protrusions (322b) of the pair of operation parts (322).

9. The connector assembly of claim 8, wherein:

a second protrusion (322a) is formed on an outer side of the operation portion (322), and the locking device (30) further includes a pair of pressing caps (340), and the pair of pressing caps (340) are respectively fitted over the second protrusion (322a) of the operation portion (322), so that the pair of locking arms (321) can be moved to the unlocking position by pressing the pair of pressing caps (340).

10. The connector assembly of claim 7, wherein:

a blocking portion (210a) is formed on an inner wall of a lateral insertion groove (203) of the second housing (210), the blocking portion (210a) being adapted to abut on a distal end of the locking arm (321) to block the pair of locking arms (321) at the locking position.

11. The connector assembly of claim 3, wherein:

the locking device (30) is mounted on the first housing (110) of the first connector (10), and a flange (215) protruding outward is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the second housing (210);

-when the first housing (110) is in the pre-assembly position, the locking means (30) are disengaged from the second housing (210) to allow the first connector (10) to be pulled out of the second housing (210);

when the first housing (110) is in the mounted position, the locking device (30) abuts on a rear end face of the flange (215) to lock the first connector (10) to the second housing (210).

12. The connector assembly of claim 11, wherein:

a mounting flange (115) extending in a radial direction is formed on the first housing (110), a pair of mounting plates (113) is formed on the mounting flange (115), and the locking device (30) is disposed between the pair of mounting plates (113) and mounted on the pair of mounting plates (113).

13. The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein:

the locking device (30) comprises:

a support shaft (310) having both ends mounted on the pair of mounting plates (113), respectively;

a lock member (320) mounted on the support shaft (310) to be rotatable around the support shaft (310) between a lock position and an unlock position; and

a spring (330) fitted around the support shaft (310) and connected between the support shaft (310) and the locking member (320) for holding the locking member (320) at the locking position,

when the lock member (320) is in the lock position, the lock member (320) is adapted to abut on a rear end face of the flange (215) to lock the first connector (10) to the second housing (210),

when the lock member (320) is in the unlock position, the lock member (320) is separated from the flange (215) to allow the first connector (10) to be pulled out of the second housing (210).

14. The connector assembly of claim 13, wherein:

the lock (320) includes:

a connecting portion (323) through which the support shaft (310) passes;

a lock arm (321) connected to the connecting portion (323) for abutting on a rear end face of the flange (215); and

an operation unit (322) connected to the connection unit (323),

the spring (330) is a torsion spring, both ends of the spring (330) are respectively connected to the supporting shaft (310) and the locking piece (320),

the lock arm (321) is movable to an unlock position separated from the flange (215) when the operation portion (322) is pushed in a direction against a torsion force of the spring (330).

15. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein:

a coupling hole (323a) is formed at the coupling portion (323) of the locking member (320), and one end (331) of the spring (330) is coupled to the coupling hole (323 a);

a longitudinal groove (314) is formed on the support shaft (310), and the other end of the spring (330) is coupled to the longitudinal groove (314).

16. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein:

a groove (114) is formed on the outer side of one of the pair of mounting plates (113), and a head portion (311) of the support shaft (310) is engaged in the groove (114) to prevent the support shaft (310) from rotating about its axis.

17. The connector assembly of claim 16, wherein:

a circumferential groove (313) is formed on the distal end of the support shaft (310), and the locking device (30) further includes a retaining ring (350), the retaining ring (350) being fitted in the circumferential groove (313) of the support shaft (310) and abutting against the outer side of the other of the pair of mounting plates (113) to prevent the support shaft (310) from moving axially.

18. The connector assembly of any one of claims 2-17, wherein:

the first terminal (120) comprises a cylindrical end (121) adapted to be inserted into the second terminal (220) and a plate-shaped end (122) for electrical connection with a connection terminal;

the first connector (10) further includes an insulating cap (130) mounted on the cylindrical end (121) of the first terminal (120) to prevent a human finger from contacting an end surface of the cylindrical end (121) of the first terminal (120).

19. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein:

a through hole (131) is formed on the insulation cap (130), the size of the through hole (131) is formed to allow the probe of the detection device to pass through but prohibit the human finger from entering,

the probe of the detection device is capable of passing through the through hole (131) and making electrical contact with the first terminal (120).

20. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein:

an installation hole (1211) is formed in an end surface of the columnar end (121) of the first terminal (120), and the insulating cap (130) is fitted into the installation hole (1211).

21. The connector assembly of claim 18, wherein:

the second terminal (220) comprises a barrel end (221) adapted to mate with the cylindrical end (121) of the first terminal (120) and a crimp end (222) adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable;

the second connector (20) further comprises an elastic electrical connector (223), the elastic electrical connector (223) being housed in the barrel end (221) of the second terminal (220) and being pressed between the first terminal (120) and the second terminal (220) to electrically connect the first terminal (120) and the second terminal (220).

22. The connector assembly of claim 21, wherein:

the second housing (210) includes a cylindrical post (211) in the insertion cavity (201), the cylindrical end (221) of the second terminal (220) and the elastic electrical connector (223) being received in the cylindrical post (211), the cylindrical post (211) being inserted into the first housing (110).

23. The connector assembly of claim 22, wherein:

the second connector (20) further includes a first seal ring (251), the first seal ring (251) being fitted over the cylindrical column (211) and compressed between the cylindrical column (211) and the first housing (110) to seal a gap therebetween.

24. The connector assembly of claim 23, wherein:

the second housing (210) is L-shaped and comprises a first end and a second end perpendicular to each other, and the barrel end (221) and the crimp end (222) of the second terminal (220) are respectively located at the first end and the second end of the second housing (210);

the second connector (20) further comprises a connection sleeve (230), the connection sleeve (230) being threaded onto a second end of the second housing (210) for securing the cable to the second housing (210).

25. The connector assembly of claim 24, wherein:

the second connector (20) further comprises a second sealing ring (252), and the second sealing ring (252) is sleeved on the second end of the second shell (210) and is pressed between the second end of the second shell (210) and the connecting sleeve (230) to seal a gap between the second end of the second shell and the connecting sleeve.

26. The connector assembly of claim 25, wherein:

the second connector (20) further comprises a sealing sleeve (240), the sealing sleeve (240) being received in the connecting sleeve (230) and being fitted over the cable and the crimp end (222) of the second terminal (220);

the gland (240) is squeezed between the cable and the connection sleeve (230) to seal the gap therebetween.

27. The connector assembly of claim 2, wherein:

the first housing (110) is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded onto the first terminal (120); and/or

The second housing (210) is a one-piece injection molded part that is insert injection molded onto the second terminal (220).