EP4323683A1 - Raccord et ensemble de conduite de fluide avec détection de fixation - Google Patents

Raccord et ensemble de conduite de fluide avec détection de fixation

Info

Publication number
EP4323683A1
EP4323683A1 EP22788756.9A EP22788756A EP4323683A1 EP 4323683 A1 EP4323683 A1 EP 4323683A1 EP 22788756 A EP22788756 A EP 22788756A EP 4323683 A1 EP4323683 A1 EP 4323683A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fluid line
line connector
connector
actuator member
rfid
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22788756.9A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Manuel Baudoin
Brian T. Ignaczak
Mateusz Jarosz
Rene Schindler
Bruno Jacksteit
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Norma US Holding LLC
Original Assignee
Norma US Holding LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US17/227,624 external-priority patent/US11306857B2/en
Application filed by Norma US Holding LLC filed Critical Norma US Holding LLC
Publication of EP4323683A1 publication Critical patent/EP4323683A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
    • F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
    • F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
    • F16L37/098—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks
    • F16L37/0985—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L55/00—Devices or appurtenances for use in, or in connection with, pipes or pipe systems
    • F16L55/07—Arrangement or mounting of devices, e.g. valves, for venting or aerating or draining
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
    • G06K19/00—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
    • G06K19/06—Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
    • G06K19/067—Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards also with resonating or responding marks without active components
    • G06K19/07—Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards also with resonating or responding marks without active components with integrated circuit chips
    • G06K19/0723—Record carriers with conductive marks, printed circuits or semiconductor circuit elements, e.g. credit or identity cards also with resonating or responding marks without active components with integrated circuit chips the record carrier comprising an arrangement for non-contact communication, e.g. wireless communication circuits on transponder cards, non-contact smart cards or RFIDs
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
    • G08C17/02—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L2201/00—Special arrangements for pipe couplings
    • F16L2201/10—Indicators for correct coupling

Definitions

  • This disclosure relates generally to connector assemblies used to join fluid lines together and, more particularly, to ways of detecting proper and full engagement of connector assembly members.
  • Connector assemblies are commonly used to join fluid lines together in vehicle applications.
  • One example is coolant fluid lines in electric vehicle automobiles.
  • visual measures are sometimes employed in the design and construction of a connector assembly in order to verify that a proper and full engagement has been made between members of the connector assembly. Examples include secondary latches that are closable upon full engagement, and windows framed in one the members of the connector assembly for viewing engagement.
  • a fluid line connector may include a body, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, and an actuator member.
  • a passage resides in the body for fluid-flow through the body.
  • the RFID tag is carried by the body.
  • the RFID tag has a circuit with a break therein.
  • the actuator member is situated near the body’s passage.
  • the actuator member has a working portion.
  • the working portion is composed of an electrically-conductive material.
  • the working portion confronts the RFID tag’s circuit. The confrontation is at or near the break.
  • the working portion comes into contact with the circuit when the actuator member is actuated.
  • the working portion bridges the circuit’s break by way of the contact when the actuator member is actuated.
  • a fluid line connector may include a body, a radio- frequency identification (RFID) tag, and a cam member.
  • a passage resides in the body for fluid-flow through the body, and a pass-through resides in the body.
  • the RFID tag is carried by the body.
  • the RFID tag has a circuit path with a discontinuity located in the circuit path.
  • the cam member is situated partially or more within the pass-through.
  • the cam member has a base portion, and the base portion has a surface. At least the surface is composed of an electrically-conductive material. When the cam member is in an unactuated position, the surface lacks contact with the circuit path at the discontinuity. And when the cam member is in an actuated position, the surface is in contact with the circuit path at the discontinuity.
  • a fluid line connector may include a body, a radio- frequency identification (RFID) tag, and a cam member.
  • a passage resides in the body for fluid-flow through the body, and a pass-through resides in the body.
  • the RFID tag is located at or near the body.
  • the RFID tag has a circuit path.
  • the circuit path has a first circuit path end and a second circuit path end.
  • a discontinuity is established between the first and second circuit path ends.
  • the cam member is situated partially or more within the pass-through.
  • the cam member has a base portion and one or more prong portions.
  • the base portion has a surface. At least the surface is composed of an electrically- conductive material. The surface comes into contact with the first circuit path end and with the second circuit path end and at the discontinuity when the cam member is actuated.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a fluid line connector assembly
  • FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view of the fluid line connector assembly of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a fluid line connector of the fluid line connector assembly of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the fluid line connector assembly of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fluid line connector
  • FIG. 6 is a side view of an embodiment of a connector that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 5;
  • FIG. 7 is another perspective view of the fluid line connector of FIG. 5, with a connector assembled thereto;
  • FIG. 8 is yet another perspective view of the fluid line connector of FIG. 5;
  • FIG. 9 is a side view of the fluid line connector of FIG. 5;
  • FIG. 10 is a side view of an embodiment of an actuator member and a switch that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 5;
  • FIG. 11 is a top view of an embodiment of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 5;
  • RFID radio-frequency identification
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fluid line connector
  • FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the fluid line connector of FIG 12;
  • FIG. 14 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a fluid line connector
  • FIG. 15 is a top view of another embodiment of a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 14; and
  • RFID radio-frequency identification
  • FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of an actuator member that can be used with the fluid line connector of FIG. 14.
  • connectors and assemblies are designed and constructed to enable detection of proper and full securement between connectors without the necessity of the secondary latches and windows of the past that required some level of physical interaction and viewing by an assembler, inspector, or servicer at the site of securement.
  • the connectors and assemblies of this description are provided with means in which proper and full securement can be detected via a device that is located remote of an immediate site of securement of the connectors, and the device need not necessarily make physical contact with the site of securement for detection.
  • the connectors and assemblies are equipped for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and subsequent service techniques that are automated, robotic, and/or autonomous — those found, for instance, in advanced manufacturing facilities in automotive production.
  • the connectors and assemblies hence could prove useful in many applications, such as when an immediate power supply is not readily available and not readily at-hand.
  • This description presents the connectors and assemblies in the context of automotive fluid lines, such as coolant fluid lines in electric vehicle automobiles, but the connectors and assemblies have broader application and are suitable for use in aircraft fluid lines, marine fluid lines, agricultural fluid lines, as well as other fluid lines.
  • FIGS. 1-4 present a first embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly 10.
  • the fluid line connector and assembly 10 here includes a fluid line connector 12 and another separate and discrete connector 14.
  • the fluid line connector 12 has quick-connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the connector 14 and is used to join automotive fluid lines together.
  • the fluid line connector 12 is a female connector and the connector 14 is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot).
  • the fluid line connector 12 receives insertion of the connector 14 at a first end 16 in installation, and couples to a fluid line at a second end 18.
  • the fluid line connector 12 has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but could have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments.
  • the connector 14 could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities. With particular reference to FIGS.
  • the connector 14 has a first flange 20 protruding radially-outboard of its body, and has a second flange 22 spaced axially from the first flange 20 and likewise protruding radially-outboard of the connector’s body.
  • the first and second flanges 20, 22 extend circumferentially around the connector 14.
  • the connector 14 has an outer surface 24.
  • the fluid line connector 12 includes a body 26, an o-ring 28, an insert 30, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip 32, a switch 34, and an actuator member 36; still, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 12 can have more, less, and/or different components.
  • the body 26 has a passage 38 defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector 12.
  • the body 26 also has a compartment 40 for receipt and placement of the RFID chip 32.
  • the compartment 40 is a space that is separate from the passage 38.
  • a removable cover 42 can be provided to close the compartment 40 and enclose the RFID chip 32 therein.
  • the body 26 further has a pass-through 44 for situating and seating the actuator member 36 within the body 26 in assembly.
  • the passage 38 and compartment 40 communicate with each other by way of the pass-through 44 which is open to both of the passage 38 and compartment 40.
  • the o-ring 28 is received within the passage 38, as perhaps depicted best by FIG. 4, and forms a seal thereat between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14.
  • the insert 30 is also received within the passage 38 and is used to help retain the connector 14 when the connector 14 and fluid line connector 12 are secured together.
  • the insert 30 has a pair of tangs 46 with hook ends 48 that capture the first flange 20 upon insertion of the connector 14 into the fluid line connector 12 to an appropriate overlapping depth, as demonstrated in FIG. 4.
  • the insert 30 includes a first ring structure 50 and a second ring structure 52 that are bridged together by the tangs 46. Press-downs 54 on opposite sides of the second ring structure 52 can be squeezed to undo the captured first flange 20 for disassembling the connector 14 from the fluid line connector 12.
  • the RFID chip 32 assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14.
  • the RFID chip 32 transmits and receives radio frequency (RF) signals with an RFID interrogator 56.
  • the RFID interrogator 56 sends an interrogating signal 58 to the RFID chip 32, which responds with an RF signal 60.
  • RF radio frequency
  • the RFID interrogator 56 can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator 56 seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID chip 32 as the fluid line connector and assembly 10 and larger application are transported through the securement zone.
  • the RFID interrogator 56 may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the RFID interrogator 56 can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device.
  • the RF signal 60 can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the information conveyed can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14.
  • the RF signal 60 can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the RFID interrogator 56 can in turn process the conveyed information.
  • the information conveyed can also include a serial number, location of installation, etc.
  • the RFID chip 32 is carried by the body 26. Support between the RFID chip 32 and the body 26 can be effected in various ways.
  • the RFID chip 32 resides within the compartment 40 and is protected by the cover 42 in installation. At this location, the RFID chip 32 is shielded from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage 38, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application.
  • the RFID chip 32 has an antenna 62 that exchanges (i.e., transmits and receives) RF signals, and has an integrated circuit (IC) 64 that stores data and information, among other possible functions.
  • the switch 34 interacts with the RFID chip 32 in order to activate and enable the RFID chip 32 to transmit and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator 56, and in order to deactivate and disable the RFID chip 32 from transmitting and receiving RF signals. Still, the interaction can influence the functioning of the RFID chip 32 in other ways.
  • the switch 34 is electrically coupled with the RFID chip 32 to enable and disable the antenna 62 to and from transmitting and receiving RF signals.
  • the switch 34 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments, depending in some cases upon the RFID chip that it interacts with and the design and construction of the accompanying connectors. For instance, the switch 34 can take mechanical, electrical, and magnetic forms. In one embodiment, and referring to FIGS.
  • the switch 34 is in the form of a button 66 mounted to the RFID chip 32.
  • the button 66 is located between the RFID chip 32 and the actuator member 36, and adjacent the pass-through 44.
  • the button 66 due to its electrical coupling to the RFID chip 32 — activates and enables the antenna 62 to transmit and receive RF signals.
  • a single press and release of the button 66 can activate the RFID chip 32, or a maintained impingement and pressing can activate the RFID chip 32 for the duration over which the impingement and pressing persists, depending on the embodiment.
  • a single press and release of the button 66 can deactivate the RFID chip 32, or an absence of a maintained impingement and pressing can deactivate the RFID chip 32 for the duration over which the impingement and pressing is lacking.
  • the switch 34 can be prompted to activate and deactivate the RFID chip 32 by other means.
  • another embodiment carries out the prompting by use of a non-contact switch in lieu of a contact-based switch.
  • a reed switch 68 is carried by the body 26 of the fluid line connector 12, and a magnetic component 70 is carried by the connector 14.
  • the proximity between the reed switch 68 and magnetic component 70 prompts activation of the RFID chip 32.
  • the actuator member 36 need not be provided.
  • the actuator member 36 receives abutment amid full securement actions and at full securement between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14, and thereby prompts impingement of the switch 34.
  • the actuator member 36 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments, depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the switch 34 and the accompanying connectors.
  • the actuator member 36 spans between the passage 38 and the switch 34 to provide an interrelationship between the connector 14 and the RFID chip 32.
  • the actuator member 36 is carried within the body 26 of the fluid line connector 12 and is situated and seated in the pass-through 44. At its location, the actuator member 36 has one end at the passage 38 and another end at the switch 34.
  • the actuator member 36 is in the form of a cam member 72.
  • the cam member 72 is one- piece and has a U-shaped profde with a base portion 74 and a pair of prong portions 76 depending from the base portion 74.
  • the base portion 74 has a first working surface 78 residing at the switch 34 and maintaining contact with the switch 34.
  • the prong portions 76 each have a second working surface 80 that reside in the passage 38 for abutment with the connector 14 upon its insertion into the fluid line connector 12.
  • the second working surfaces 80 can be slanted relative to an axis of the connector 14 in order to ease abutment with the connector 14 and to induce the concomitant displacement of the cam member 72.
  • the fluid line connector and assembly 10 When the fluid line connector and assembly 10 is employed in use, proper and full securement can be detected via RFID technologies.
  • the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14 are brought together as the connector 14 is inserted into the body 26 at the first end 16.
  • the first flange 20 comes into abutment with the cam member 72 and displaces the cam member 72 upward (relative to the orientation of the figures) and toward the button 66.
  • the first flange 20 makes surface-to-surface abutment with the second working surfaces 80 of the cam member 72.
  • the cam member 72 is urged upward and impinges the button 66 via surface-to-surface contact between the first working surface 78 and a confronting surface of the button 66.
  • the first flange 20 maintains abutment with the cam member 72 and the cam member 72 hence maintains impingement with the button 66 at full securement.
  • the fluid line connector 12 includes more than a single RFID chip.
  • a second RFID chip 33 is provided in addition to the first RFID chip 32. And like the first RFID chip 32, the second RFID chip 33 assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector 12 and the connector 14.
  • both of the first and second RFID chips 32, 33 transmit and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the first RFID chip 32 can convey the fully secured information to the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the second RFID chip 33 can convey this less-than fully secured information to the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the second RFID chip 33 does not convey the less-than fully secured information to the RFID interrogator 56; and, when not fully secured together, the first RFID chip 32 does not convey the fully secured information to the RFID interrogator 56.
  • the first and second RFID chips, 32, 33 can convey additional information such as a serial number, location of installation, etc. Whether the first RFID chip 32 conveys its fully secured information or the second RFID chip 33 conveys its less-than fully secured information is managed in part by the switch 34.
  • the switch 34 interacts with both of the first and second RFID chips 32, 33 and is electrically coupled to both of the first and second RFID chips 32, 33. The interaction and conveyance of information can be effected in different ways.
  • the switch 34 when impinged, can activate and enable the first RFID chip 32 to convey the fully secured information and, when not impinged, the switch 34 can activate and enable the second RFID chip 33 to convey the less-than fully secured information.
  • the impingement and absence of impingement of the switch 34 can deactivate and disable the first RFID chip 32 or the second RFID chip 33.
  • the fluid line connector and assembly 110 includes a fluid line connector 112 and another separate and discrete connector 114.
  • the fluid line connector 112 has quick-connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the connector 114 and is used to join automotive fluid lines together, as well as other fluid lines in other applications.
  • the fluid line connector 112 is a female connector and the connector 114 is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot).
  • the fluid line connector 112 receives insertion of the connector 114, as demonstrated best by FIG. 7.
  • the fluid line connector 112 has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but could have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments.
  • the connector 114 could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities.
  • the connector 114 has an extension 115 and a slot 117 located at an end of the connector 114 that is inserted into the fluid line connector 112.
  • the extension 115 can be received in a complementary cavity of the fluid line connector 112 for relative rotational alignment purposes between the connectors 112, 114, and need not be provided in some embodiments.
  • the extension 115 in some embodiments, could make abutment with a first actuator member (set forth below) of the fluid line connector 112 and hence could prompt actuation thereof.
  • the extension 115 spans axially over the inserted end of the connector 114, and protrudes radially-outboard of the connector’s surrounding body.
  • the slot 117 receives insertion of a retainer of the fluid line connector 112, as set forth below.
  • the slot 117 spans circumferentially around the connector 114.
  • the connector 114 has a ramp 119.
  • the ramp 119 presents an increasing diameter in the connector 114.
  • An exterior surface 113 is situated from the slot 117 and ramp 119.
  • the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 with the ramp 119 received in the fluid line connector 112 before the extension 115 and before the slot 117 are received in the fluid line connector 112 (i.e., from right to left in the orientation of FIG. 6).
  • the fluid line connector 112 includes a body 126, a retainer 129, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag 132, one or two switches 134, 135, and one or two actuator members 136, 137; still, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 112 can have more, less, and/or different components.
  • the body 126 has a passage 138 defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector 112. Further, the body 126 has a compartment for receipt and placement of the RFID tag 132.
  • a cover 142 is provided to close the compartment and enclose the RFID tag 132 therein (the compartment and cover are only depicted in FIGS.
  • FIGS. 8 and 9 could have a similar construction for housing the RFID tag 132).
  • the cover 142 could be removable, though need not.
  • an insert assembly 143 can be provided and carried at the interior of the fluid line connector 112 and within the passage 138. Depending on its design and construction, the insert assembly 143 can facilitate fit, reception, and/or sealing between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114.
  • the insert assembly 143 for instance, could include an o-ring 145 and a carrier 147, and could also include a bushing, depending on the embodiment
  • the body 126 has a construction that, in cooperation with the retainer 129, furnishes the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector 112.
  • a first opening 149 and a second opening 151 are defined on opposite sides of the body’s wall and span wholly therethrough and lead to the passage 138.
  • a first recess 153 and a second recess 155 reside for temporarily deploying the retainer 129 as the retainer 129 is pulled radially-outboard for release of the connector 114 from the fluid line connector 112.
  • Flanges 157 project radially-outboard of the body’s wall and partially enclose sections of the retainer 129 to prevent inadvertent dislodging of the retainer 129 when it is received in the slot 117.
  • the body 126 has a structure intended to accommodate assembly and installation of the actuator member(s) 136, 137.
  • the precise design and construction of that structure can vary, and can depend on the design and construction of the actuator member(s) and switch(es) utilized in the fluid line connector 112.
  • a first socket 159 and a second socket 161 reside in the body 126.
  • the first socket 159 receives and holds the first actuator member 136 and is in the form of a slotted construction in this embodiment.
  • the first socket 159 is located at an entrance 163 of the passage 138 for situating the first actuator member 136 thereat, and is defined in the body’s wall near the entrance 163.
  • an axial depth of the first socket 159 can be approximately equivalent to the length of the first actuator member 136.
  • a radial width of the first socket 159 can be approximately equivalent to the width of the first actuator member 136.
  • the axial depth of the first socket 159 is in general alignment with an axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163.
  • the second socket 161 receives and holds the second actuator member 137 and is in the form of a slotted construction in this embodiment.
  • the second socket 161 is located external of the passage 138 and at a side of the body’s wall for situating the second actuator member 137 thereat
  • a radial depth of the second socket 161 can be approximately equivalent to the length of the second actuator member 137.
  • an axial width of the second socket 161 can be approximately equivalent to the width of the second actuator member 137.
  • the radial depth of the second socket 161 is in general alignment with a radius of the passage 138 at the entrance 163.
  • FIG. 9 depict an enlarged structure projecting from the side of the body’s wall to accommodate the second actuator member 137 and for furnishing the second socket 161, but in other embodiments the accommodation can be more coherent and integrated into the body 126 such that the enlarged structure can be minimized.
  • a base wall 165 and a pair of side walls 167 depending from the base wall 165 together partially enclose the second actuator member 137 and help protect against inadvertent contact from foreign components when the fluid line connector 112 is put to use.
  • the retainer 129 interacts with the body 126 to furnish the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector 112 so that the connector 114 can be readily inserted into and held in the fluid line connector 112 and can be released and removed therefrom as needed or as desired.
  • the retainer 129 can vary in design and construction. With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 8, in this embodiment the retainer 129 is a one- piece stainless steel wire spring that is inwardly biased.
  • the retainer 129 has a first leg 169, a second leg 171, and bridge 173 spanning between the legs.
  • the first and second legs 169, 171 can be substantially similar in shape and size. A first position of use of the retainer 129 is presented in FIGS. 5, 8, and 9.
  • the retainer 129 In the first position of use, the retainer 129 is carried by the body 126 with the first and second legs 169,171 moved through the first and second openings 149, 151. The first and second legs 169, 171 reside partially within the passage 138. The connector 114 is not inserted into the fluid line connector 112 in the first position of use. A second position of use of the retainer 129 lacks specific depiction in the figures. In the second position of use, the connector 114 is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 and the ramp 119 engages the first and second legs 169, 171. The engagement urges the first and second legs 169, 171 to spread apart away from each other (i.e., radially-outboard) and can move the bridge 173 radially-outboard.
  • the retainer 129 is brought to a third position of use in which the retainer 129 is received in the slot 117.
  • the first and second legs 169, 171 ride over the ramp 119 and can snap back into their location of the first position of use, but are now received in the slot 117.
  • the first and second legs 169, 171 are moved respectively through the first and second openings 149. Receipt of one or both of the first and second legs 169, 171 into the slot 117 secures the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 together. Movement of the retainer 129 between its first and second and third positions of use moves the retainer 129 in a direction that is generally transverse and orthogonal to a direction of insertion 179 (FIG.
  • the retainer moves movement is radially-outboard and radially-inboard, or up and down.
  • a terminal foot 173 (FIG. 9) of the first leg 169 can be seated in the first recess 153 and, likewise, a terminal foot (not specifically depicted) of the second leg 171 can be seated in the second recess 155.
  • the RFID tag 132 assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114.
  • the RFID tag 132 communicates with an RFID interrogator or reader 156 (FIG. 7).
  • the RFID interrogator 156 sends an interrogating signal 158 to the RFID tag 132, which communicates in turn with the RFID interrogator 156. In this way, proper and full securement detection is carried out with the use of RFID technologies.
  • the RFID interrogator 156 can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator 156 seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID tag 132 as the fluid line connector and assembly 110 and larger application are transported through the securement zone.
  • the RFID interrogator 156 may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator 156.
  • the RFID interrogator 156 can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device.
  • the RFID tag 132 is of the passive RFID tag type in this embodiment, but could be of another type such as an active RFID tag.
  • the communications received from the RFID tag 132 can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator 156.
  • the information conveyed can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114. For example, when the fluid line connector 112 and connector 114 exhibit full securement, the RFID tag 132 can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 156. And conversely, when the fluid line connector 112 and connector 114 lack full securement, the RFID tag 132 can convey the not-fully-secured information in the form of an OFF signal to the RFID interrogator 156.
  • the RFID interrogator 156 can in turn process the conveyed information.
  • the information conveyed can also include a part serial number, location of installation, etc.
  • the RFID tag 132 can convey the state of each of the actuator members 136, 137 based upon impingement or non-impingement of the switches 134, 135.
  • the RFID tag 132 can convey one or more of the following: i) both of the actuator members 136, 137 lack actuation and hence both of the first and second switches 134, 135 are in an open state, ii) the first actuator member 136 lacks actuation and hence the first switch 134 is in an open state and the second actuator member 137 is actuated and hence the second switch 135 is in a closed state, iii) the first actuator member 136 is actuated and hence the first switch 134 is in a closed state and the second actuator member 137 lacks actuation and hence the second switch 135 is in an open state, and/or iv) both of the first and second actuator members 136, 137 are actuated and hence both of the first and second switches 134, 135 are in a closed state.
  • the RFID tag 132 is carried by the body 126. Support between the RFID tag 132 and the body 126 can be effected in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag 132 resides within the body’s compartment and is protected by the cover 142 in installation. At this location, the RFID tag 132 is shielded from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage 138, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application. As shown in FIG. 11, the RFID tag 132 has an antenna 162 and has an integrated circuit (IC) 164 that stores data and information, among other possible functions. The antenna 162 and IC 164 can be carried on a substrate of the RFID tag 132.
  • IC integrated circuit
  • the first and second switches 134, 135 can be electrically coupled with the RFID tag 132 in a series arrangement.
  • the series arrangement serves to establish a continuity loop with beneficial circuitry and detection capabilities in some embodiments. For instance, when the continuity loop is disestablished at one or both of the switches 134, 135, detection of the consequent discontinuity can be readily carried out
  • the electrical coupling among the first and second switches 134, 135 and the RFID tag 132 could have arrangements at the IC 164 other than the series arrangement in order to, for example, effect the capability to convey the state of each of the switches 134, 135 independent of each other, as presented above.
  • the fluid line connector 112 can include more than a single RFID tag.
  • the fluid line connector 112 can be equipped with: i) only the first switch 134 and first actuator member 136, ii) only the second switch 135 and second actuator member 137, or iii) both of the first and second switches 134, 135 and both of the first and second actuator members 136, 137.
  • the third [iii)] alternative is depicted in the figures, but skilled artisans can readily envision the first [i)] and second [ii)] alternatives by removal of the other from the fluid line connector 112 in the figures.
  • the first and second switches 134, 135 are electrically coupled with the RFID tag 132 in order to convey their state to the RFID tag 132 based on impingement or non-impingement of the switches 134, 135 by the first and second actuator members 136, 137.
  • the electrical coupling can be in the form of wires 175 spanning from the first and second switches 134, 135 and to the RFID tag 132.
  • the wiring can establish a series arrangement. In the example of the wires 175, the wires 175 could be routed through one or more grooves residing in the body 126 or could be embedded within the body’s walls, among other possibilities.
  • the first and second switches 134, 135 can take various forms in various embodiments depending in some cases upon the RFID tag that it interacts with and the design and construction of the accompanying actuator members. With respect to each other and in the embodiment in which both of the switches 134, 135 are present, the first and second switches 134, 135 can take different forms.
  • the first and second switches 134, 135 are in the form of a button 166. When impinged and physically pressed by the particular actuator member, the button 166 is in a closed state. And when not impinged and not physically pressed by the particular actuator member, the button 166 is in an open state.
  • the first and second actuator members 136, 137 receive abutment amid full securement actions and at full securement between the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114, and are thereby actuated and in turn respectively impinge the first and second switches 134, 135 to close the switches.
  • the first and second actuator members 136, 137 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the particular switch and connector. With respect to each other and in the embodiment in which both of the actuator members 136, 137 are present, the first and second actuator members 136, 137 can take different forms.
  • the first actuator member 136 is intended to facilitate detection of axial insertion of the connector
  • the first actuator member 136 is situated near the entrance 163 of the passage 138. In general, the first actuator member 136 resembles a V-shape turned on its side.
  • a longitudinal extent 177 of the first actuator member 136, in assembly, is arranged generally in-line with the direction of insertion 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112. The longitudinal extent 177 is in general alignment with the axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163.
  • the first actuator member 136 has a base 181 and an appendage 183 depending from the base 181.
  • the base 181 carries the first switch 134 and is inserted and received in the first socket 159 of the body 126.
  • the appendage 183 can move relative to the base 181 over an arced path 185 when the first actuator member 136 receives abutment from the connector 114.
  • the appendage 183 as demonstrated perhaps best by FIG. 5, is suspended partly within the passage 138 prior to insertion of the connector 114 so that the connector’s ramp 119 can make abutment with the appendage 183 upon such insertion.
  • the appendage 183 remains in this extended and suspended position when it is at rest and when it lacks abutment from the ramp 119 — this constitutes an unactuated state of the first actuator member 136 and a correspondingly open state of the first switch 134.
  • the appendage 183 When abutted, the appendage 183 then moves toward the base 181 and impinges the first switch 134 — this constitutes an actuated state of the first actuator member 136 and a correspondingly closed state of the first switch 134.
  • the appendage 183 has an outer working surface 187 that maintains general confrontation with the passage 138 and with the connector 114.
  • the appendage 183 has an inner working surface 189 that maintains general confrontation with the first switch 134.
  • a projection 191 can extend from the inner working surface 189 for direct impingement with the first switch 134.
  • the appendage 183 has a proximal end 193 about which the appendage 183 bends relative to the base 181, and has a distal end 195.
  • the proximal end 193 serves as a hinge, and the distal end 195 constitutes a free terminal end of the appendage 183.
  • an axis 197 of the hinge lies in a generally orthogonal arrangement with the direction of insertion 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, and likewise is generally orthogonal to the axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163.
  • the second actuator member 137 has a similar design and construction as the first actuator member 136.
  • the second actuator member 137 is intended to facilitate detection of proper positioning of the retainer 129 and accompanying receipt of the legs 169, 171 in the slot 117.
  • the second actuator member 137 is situated at a location that is external of the passage 138 and at a side of the body’s wall; still, in other embodiments lacking depiction the second actuator member could be located internal of the body 126 and need not be external. Because of its location, and unlike the first actuator member 136, the longitudinal extent 177 of the second actuator member 137 is arranged generally transverse to the direction of insertion 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112.
  • the longitudinal extent 177 is generally orthogonal to the axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163.
  • the base 181 of the second actuator member 137 carries the second switch 135 and is inserted and received in the second socket 161 of the body 126.
  • the appendage 183 is positioned at the body’s exterior with its distal end 195 lying in intersection with a path over which the terminal foot 173 descends and resides when the retainer 129 is in its first and third positions of use. In this way, the terminal foot 173 can make abutment with the appendage 183 when the legs 169, 171 are moved in the slot 117 and can hence cause actuation of the second actuator member 137. Actuation of the second actuator member
  • the appendage 183 remains in its extended position when it is at rest and when it lacks abutment from the terminal foot 173 — this constitutes an unactuated state of the second actuator member 137 and a correspondingly open state of the second switch 135.
  • the appendage 183 lacks abutment from the terminal foot 173 when the retainer 129 is in its second position of use. When abutted by the terminal foot 173, the appendage 183 then moves toward the base 181 and impinges the second switch 135 — this constitutes an actuated state of the second actuator member 137 and a correspondingly closed state of the second switch 135.
  • the axis 197 of the hinge is arranged generally in-line with the direction of insertion 179 of the connector 114 into the fluid line connector 112, and likewise is in general alignment with the axis of the passage 138 at the entrance 163.
  • a first bar schematic 200 is representative of the state of the first switch
  • a second bar schematic 202 is representative of the state of the second switch
  • the first and second bar schematics 200, 202 are examples and could differ in other embodiments.
  • the first and second bar schematics 200, 202 are placed next to the connector 114 and parallel with the axis of the connector 114 to serve as a representation of the corresponding axial section of the connector 114 as it is inserted into the fluid line connector 112 and the two axially overlap.
  • the first and second bar schematics 200, 202 are based on the assumption that the retainer 129 is initially in its first position of use.
  • the first switch 134 should be in its open state.
  • the second switch 135 may be in its closed state.
  • the state of the first switch 134 can be uncertain, of the first switch 134 may be in its closed state.
  • the retainer 129 has now come into engagement with the ramp 119 and the appendage 183 of the first actuator member 136 is abutted by the ramp 119 or by the extension 115.
  • the state of the second switch 135 can be uncertain, or can be closed.
  • the second switch 135 should be in its open state. Again here, the ramp 119 is engaging the retainer 129 in the second axial depth of insertion 210.
  • the first switch 134 should be in its closed state.
  • the second switch 135 should also be in its closed state.
  • the first and second legs 169, 171 are received in the slot 117 and the fluid line connector 112 and the connector 114 are fully secured together.
  • the first and second actuator members 136, 137 are actuated and impinge the first and second switches 134, 135 at the third and fourth axial depth of insertions 212, 214.
  • the first switch 134 goes from its open state, to an uncertain state, and to its closed state; and the second switch 135 goes from its closed state, to an uncertain state, to its open state, and then back to its closed state.
  • the first switch 134 initially enters its closed state (or at least may be in its closed state) at the second axial depth of insertion 208 the second switch 135 is concurrently in its open state at the third axial depth of insertion 210, a false-negative detection reading is precluded.
  • at least one of the first or second switches 134, 135 remains in its open state until the third and fourth axial depth of insertions 212, 214.
  • FIGS. 5-11 additional alternatives are possible for the embodiment of FIGS. 5-11.
  • impingement from the first and second actuator members 136, 137 changes the state of the respective first and second switches 134, 135 — for example, brings the switches from an initially open state to a subsequently closed state via impingement, or conversely brings the switches from an initially closed state to a subsequently open state via impingement
  • the first switch 134 can itself receive abutment from the connector 114, with the first actuator member 136 being indirectly acted on and indirectly moved by the abutment via the first switch 134.
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 another embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly 310 is presented. This embodiment has some similarities with the embodiment of FIGS.
  • the fluid line connector and assembly 310 includes a fluid line connector 312 and another separate and discrete connector 314.
  • the fluid line connector 312 has quick- connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the connector 314 and is used to join automotive fluid lines together, as well as other fluid lines in other applications.
  • the fluid line connector 312 is a female connector and the connector 314 is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot).
  • the fluid line connector 312 receives insertion of the connector 314, as demonstrated by FIGS. 12 and 13.
  • the fluid line connector 312 has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but could have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments.
  • the connector 314 could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities.
  • the connector 314 in this embodiment has a ramp 319 and a slot 317.
  • the ramp 319 resides a distance from a terminal end 321 but closer to the terminal end 321 than the slot 317.
  • the ramp 319 establishes an increasing diameter at an outer portion of the connector 314.
  • the slot 317 receives insertion of a retainer of the fluid line connector 312, as set forth below.
  • the slot 317 spans circumferentially around the connector 314.
  • the fluid line connector 312 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments.
  • the fluid line connector 312 includes a body 326, a cover 342, a retainer 329, a radio- frequency identification (RFID) tag 332, a switch 334, and an actuator member 336; still, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector 312 can have more, less, and/or different components.
  • the body 326 has a passage 338 defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector 312.
  • An insert assembly can be furnished at an interior of the fluid line connector 312 and within the passage 338.
  • the insert assembly can facilitate fit, reception, and/or sealing between the fluid line connector 312 and the connector 314.
  • the insert assembly includes an o-ring 345.
  • the body 326 has a construction that, in cooperation with the retainer 329, furnishes the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector 312. Referring to FIG. 12, a first opening 349 and a second opening (not visible) are defined on opposite sides of the body’s wall and span wholly therethrough and lead to the passage 338. At the wall’s exterior, a first recess 353 and second recess (again not visible) reside for temporary deployment of the retainer 329.
  • Flanges 357 project radially-outboard of the body’s wall and partially blockade sections of the retainer 329 to prevent inadvertent dislodging of the retainer 329 when it is received in the slot 317.
  • a pass-through 344 is defined in the body’s wall and spans completely therethrough and leads to the passage 338.
  • the actuator member 336 is accessible at the passage 338 by way of the pass-through 344.
  • the actuator member 336 resides in and travels through the pass-through 344.
  • the pass-through 344 is located near an end of the body 326 that receives insertion of the connector 314 so that the actuator member 336 can interact with the connector 314, as set forth below.
  • the cover 342 is carried by the body 326 and partly or more encloses the RFID tag 332 to protect the RFID tag 332 against exposure to foreign objects and things during use of the fluid line connector 312.
  • the cover 342 can have various designs and constructions. In this embodiment, when in place, the cover 342 is situated at an outer boundary of the body 326 and wholly encloses the RFID tag 332.
  • the cover 342 has a pair of extensions 343 (only one visible in FIG. 12) disposed on each side of its structure that snap over interconnecting constructions on the body 326 and thereby establish an attachment therewith.
  • the actuator member 336 is a monolithic construction of the cover 342 in the embodiment presented here.
  • the actuator member 336 extends unitarily from a front end 345 of the cover 342.
  • the actuator member 336 extends at an outer periphery 347 of the cover 342. This construction facilitates assembly and installation of the actuator member 336 as it is carried by the cover 342 and received in the pass-through 344 upon attachment of the cover 342 with the body 326. Still, in other embodiments the cover 342 and actuator member 336 need not exhibit the monolithic construction set forth herein.
  • the retainer 329 interacts with the body 326 to furnish the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector 312 so that the connector 314 can be readily inserted into and held in the fluid line connector 312 and can be released and removed therefrom as needed or as desired.
  • the retainer 329 can vary in design and construction. With particular reference to FIG. 12, in this embodiment the retainer 329 is a one-piece stainless steel wire spring that is inwardly biased.
  • the retainer 329 has a first leg 369, a second leg (not visible), and a bridge 373 spanning between the legs.
  • the first and second legs 369 can be substantially similar in shape and size.
  • the retainer 329 is carried by the body 326 with the first and second legs 369 moved through the first and second openings 349.
  • the first and second legs 369 reside partially within the passage 338.
  • the connector 314 is not inserted into the fluid line connector 312 in the first position of use.
  • the connector 314 is in the midst of being inserted into the fluid line connector 312 and the ramp 319 engages the first and second legs 369. The engagement urges the first and second legs 369 to spread apart away from each other (i.e., radially-outboard) and can move the bridge 373 radially- outboard.
  • the retainer 329 is brought to a third position of use, or position of securement, in which the retainer 329 is received in the slot 317.
  • the third position of use is depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13.
  • the first and second legs 369 ride over the ramp 319 and can snap back into their location of the first position of use, but are now received in the slot 317.
  • the first and second legs 369 are moved respectively through the first and second openings 349. Receipt of the first and second legs 369 into the slot 317 secures the fluid line connector 312 and the connector 314 together.
  • Movement of the retainer 329 between its first and second and third positions of use moves the retainer 329 in a direction that is generally transverse and orthogonal to a direction of insertion 379 (FIG. 13) of the connector 314 into the fluid line connector 312 — in other words, the retainer’s movement is generally radially- outboard and radially-inboard, or up and down.
  • a terminal foot 173 (FIG. 9) of the first leg 169 can be seated in the first recess 153 and, likewise, a terminal foot (not specifically depicted) of the second leg 171 can be seated in the second recess 155.
  • the RFID tag 332 assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector 312 and the connector 314.
  • the RFID tag 332 communicates with an RFID interrogator or reader 356 (FIG. 12).
  • the RFID interrogator 356 sends an interrogating signal 358 to the RFID tag 332, which in turn communicates with the RFID interrogator 356. In this way, proper and full securement detection is carried out with the use of RFID technologies.
  • the RFID interrogator 356 can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator 356 seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID tag 332 as the fluid line connector and assembly 310 and larger application are transported through the securement zone.
  • the RFID interrogator 356 may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator 356.
  • the RFID interrogator 356 can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device.
  • the RFID tag 332 is of the passive RFID tag type in this embodiment, but could be of another type such as an active RFID tag.
  • the communications received from the RFID tag 332 can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator 356.
  • the information conveyed can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector 312 and the connector 314.
  • the RFID tag 332 can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 356.
  • the RFID tag 332 can convey the not-fully-secured information in the form of an OFF signal to the RFID interrogator 356.
  • the RFID interrogator 356 can in turn process the conveyed information.
  • the information conveyed can also include a part serial number, location of installation, date of installation, etc.
  • the RFID tag 332 is carried by the body 326. Support between the RFID tag 332 and the body 326 can be effected in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag 332 sits at the body’s outer boundary and is protected by the cover 342 in installation. At this location, the RFID tag 332 is away from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage 338, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application.
  • the RFID tag 332 can have a similar design as that presented by FIG. 11, and hence can have an antenna and an integrated circuit (IC) that stores data and information, among other possible functionalities. The antenna and IC can reside on a substrate of the RFID tag 332. Of course, the RFID tag 332 could have other designs that differ from that of FIG. 11.
  • the switch 334 is electrically coupled with the RFID tag 332 in order to convey its state to the RFID tag 332 based on impingement or non- impingement of the switch 334 by the actuator member 336.
  • the electrical coupling can be in the form of wiring.
  • the switch 334 is mounted directly to the RFID tag 332 and carried thereby.
  • the switch 334 is carried at a location of the RFID tag 332 so that, in assembly, the switch 334 is physically sandwiched by the actuator member 336 as demonstrated by FIG. 13.
  • the switch 334 resides on an underside of the RFID tag 332.
  • the switch 334 can take various forms in various embodiments depending in some cases upon the RFID tag that it interacts with and the design and construction of the accompanying actuator member.
  • the switch 334 is in the form of a button 366.
  • the button 366 When impinged and physically pressed by the actuator member 336, the button 366 is in a closed state. And when not impinged and not physically pressed by the actuator member 336, the button 366 is in an open state.
  • the actuator member 336 serves to impinge the switch 334 and change its state (e.g., open state to closed state, or vice versa) upon actuation.
  • the actuator member 336 actuates and impinges the switch 334 only when two actions occur: a) insertion of the connector 314 into the fluid line connector 312, and b) movement of the retainer 329 to its position of securement. If one of these two actions is lacking and absent, the actuator member 336 remains unactuated and the switch is not impinged.
  • the actuator member 336 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the particular switch and connector. In the embodiment of FIGS.
  • the actuator member 336 is a unitary extension of the cover 342.
  • the actuator member 336 is received in the pass-through 344 in assembly and installation, as illustrated in FIG. 13.
  • the actuator member 336 is partly suspended within the passage 338 to accept abutment from the connector 314 when the connector 314 is in the midst of being inserted into the fluid line connector 312, and is partly exposed external of the body 326 to accept abutment from the retainer 329.
  • the actuator member 336 is situated near an entrance 363 of the passage 338.
  • a longitudinal extent 377 of the actuator member 336 is arranged generally in-line with the direction of insertion 379.
  • the actuator member 336 has a base 381 and an appendage 383 depending from the base 381.
  • the base 381 is located exterior of the passage 338 and confronts the retainer 329, while the appendage 383 is located at the passage 338 and suspended partly therein and confronts the connector 314.
  • the base 381 is situated on a radially-outboard side thereof, and the appendage 383 is situated on an opposite radially-inboard side thereof.
  • the switch 334 is sandwiched by the actuator member 336 and the actuator member 336 can press the switch 334 at each side.
  • the base 381 spans directly and immediately from the cover 342, and the appendage 383 spans directly and immediately from the base 381.
  • a first extension 385 joins the cover 342 and base 381, and a second extension
  • the second extension 387 joins the base 381 and appendage 383.
  • the second extension 387 has a bend in it and wraps the actuator member 336 over and around an edge of the RFID tag 332 and locates the appendage 383 beneath the base 381 with respect to the orientation of FIG. 13.
  • the appendage 383 has a terminal and free end
  • the base 381 has a first working surface 389 in direct confrontation with the retainer 329 for abutment therewith, and the appendage 383 has a second working surface 391 in confrontation with the connector 314 for abutment therewith.
  • the first working surface 389 is generally directed radially-outward, and the second working surface 391 is generally directed radially-inward.
  • the first working surface 389 receives abutment from the retainer 329, and the second working surface 391 receives abutment from the connector 314.
  • a curved seat 393 (FIG.
  • the appendage 383 has an inner working surface 392 in general confrontation with the switch 334 for direct impingement thereagainst.
  • the actuator member 336 experiences movement amid insertion of the connector 314 into the fluid line connector 312 and securement of the retainer 329, as described more below.
  • a first hinged end 395 resides at the first extension 385 and a second hinged end 397 resides at the second extension 387.
  • the first hinged end 395 is a thinned wall section relative to the thickness of the immediately surrounding wall sections.
  • the first hinged end 395 defines a first axis 399 (FIG. 12).
  • a part of the actuator member’s movement can involve the base 381 being deflected and displaced about the first hinged end 395 and about the first axis 399 with respect to the cover 342.
  • the second hinged end 397 defines a second axis 401 (FIG. 12). Another part of the actuator member’s movement can involve the appendage 383 being deflected and displaced about the second hinged end 397 and about the second axis 401 with respect to the base 381.
  • the first axis 399 and second axis 401 are parallel to each other in this embodiment, and are arranged generally orthogonal relative to the direction of insertion 379.
  • the actuator member 336 actuates and impinges the switch 334 only upon the concurrence of: i) full and complete insertion of the connector 314 into the fluid line connector 312, and ii) conclusive and complete movement of the retainer 329 to its position of securement.
  • the conditions i) and ii) are shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. Absent one of the two conditions i) or ii), or absent both of the conditions i) and ii), the actuator member 336 is not actuated and the switch 334 is not impinged.
  • the switch 334 would only change its state when both conditions i) and ii) are satisfied, and the fluid line connector 312 would in turn only indicate proper and full securement when both condition i) and ii) are met.
  • the fluid line connector 312 employs the use of a single switch and a single actuator member to furnish detection of two conditions — that of the connector 314 [i.e., i)] and that of the retainer 329 [i.e., ii)].
  • the connector 314 is inserted into the fluid line connector 312 and the ramp 319 comes into abutment with the appendage 383.
  • the second working surface 391 makes direct contact with the ramp’s outer surface.
  • a first force is exerted from the ramp 319 and to the appendage 383.
  • the first force lies generally transverse to the direction of insertion 379.
  • both the appendage 383 and the base 381 can experience some degree of movement — absent the retainer 329 being in its position of securement, the movement of the appendage 383 and base 381 do not result in impingement of the switch 334.
  • the appendage 383 moves along an arcuate path relative to the base 381 and about the second axis 401.
  • the base 381 on the other hand, is moved slightly outboard relative to the cover 342 and about the first axis 401 in response to the appendage’s movement
  • the movement of the base 381 occurs and, in a sense, is permitted due to the absence of the retainer 329 in its position of securement. Indeed, it is the movement of the base 381 that forestalls impingement of the switch 334.
  • the first working surface 389 makes direct contact with an exterior surface of the retainer’s bridge 373.
  • a second force is exerted from the retainer 329 and to the base 381. Like the first force, the second force lies generally transverse to the direction of insertion 379. The second force has a direction that is generally opposed to that of the first force.
  • the first and second forces serve as reacting and counter- forces to each other.
  • the base 381 moves inboard relative to the cover 342 and about the first axis 401 and to the position depicted best in FIG. 13. This movement, and the opposing exertions of the first and second forces, brings the actuator member 336 to its actuated state and the actuator member 336 impinges and presses the switch 334.
  • Impingement of the switch 334 is a result of being sandwiched between the base 381 and appendage 383 and between the first and second forces.
  • the fluid line connector and assembly 410 includes a fluid line connector 412 and another separate and discrete connector.
  • the fluid line connector 412 has quick-connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the discrete connector and is used to join automotive fluid lines together, as well as other fluid lines in other applications.
  • the fluid line connector 412 can be equipped with coolant fluid lines in electric vehicle battery installations or can be equipped in-tank inside of automotive fuel tanks in which the fluid line connector 412 would be inaccessible post- installation, among other possibilities. In in-tank applications, subsequent service of the fluid line connector 412 can be challenging and often costly due to its internal location.
  • the fluid line connector 412 is a female connector and the discrete connector is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot). The fluid line connector 412 receives insertion of the discrete connector.
  • the fluid line connector 412 receives insertion of the discrete connector.
  • the discrete connector could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities.
  • the discrete connector in this embodiment can be similar to the connector 14 as described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4.
  • the discrete connector can therefore have a first flange protruding radially-outboard of its body, and a second flange protruding radially-outboard of its body.
  • the first and second flanges can be spaced axially apart from each other, and can span circumferentially around the discrete connector.
  • the fluid line connector 412 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments.
  • the fluid line connector 412 includes a body 426, an o-ring 428, an insert 430, a radio- frequency identification (RFID) tag 432, and an actuator member 436.
  • RFID radio- frequency identification
  • the fluid line connector 412 can have more, less, and/or different components; for example, the fluid line connector 412 need not have the o-ring 428 and insert 430 presented here, could have an insert with a different design and construction, could have another insert assembly that facilitates fit and/or reception and/or sealing in another way, or need not have one or both of these components at all. Turning particularly to FIG.
  • the body 426 has a passage 438 defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector 412.
  • the passage 438 constitutes the main and primary passage of the fluid line connector 412.
  • the body 426 also has a compartment 440 for receipt and placement of the RFID tag 432.
  • the compartment 440 is a space that is separate from the passage 438.
  • a removable cover 442 can be provided to close the compartment 440 and enclose the RFID tag 432 therein. Receipt and placement of the RFID tag 432 can have a different design and construction in other embodiments, including according to embodiments described elsewhere in this patent application.
  • the body 426 further has a pass-through 444 for situating and seating the actuator member 436 within the body 426 in assembly.
  • the passage 438 and compartment 440 communicate with each other by way of the pass-through 444 which is open to both of the passage 438 and the compartment 440.
  • the pass-through 444 spans axially between the passage 438 and compartment 440, as represented in part by the broken line depiction in FIG. 14.
  • the o-ring 428 is received within the passage 438 and forms a seal between the fluid line connector 412 and the discrete connector.
  • the insert 430 is also received within the passage 438 and is used to help retain the discrete connector when the discrete connector and fluid line connector 412 are secured together.
  • the insert 430 has a pair of tangs 446 with hook ends 448 that capture the first flange upon insertion of the discrete connector into the fluid line connector 412 to a sufficient overlapping depth.
  • the insert 430 includes a first ring structure 450 and a second ring structure 452 that are bridged together by the tangs 446. Press-downs 454 on opposite sides of the second ring structure 452 can be squeezed to undo and release the captured first flange for disassembling the discrete connector from the fluid line connector 412.
  • the RFID tag 432 assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector 412 and the discrete connector.
  • the RFID tag 432 communicates with an RFID interrogator or reader 456 (FIG. 14).
  • the RFID interrogator 456 sends an interrogating signal 458 to the RFID tag 432, which in turn can communicate with the RFID interrogator 456. In this way, proper and full securement detection is carried out with the use of RFID technologies.
  • the RFID interrogator 456 can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator 456 seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID tag 432 as the fluid line connector and assembly 410 and larger application are transported through the securement zone.
  • the RFID interrogator 456 may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator 456.
  • the RFID interrogator 456 can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device.
  • the RFID tag 432 is of the passive RFID tag type in this embodiment, but could be of another type such as an active RFID tag.
  • the communications received from the RFID tag 432 can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator 456.
  • the information can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector 412 and the discrete connector. For example, when the fluid line connector 412 and discrete connector exhibit full securement, the RFID tag 432 can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 456.
  • the not-fully-secured information can be ascertained in the form of an absence of a signal from the RFID tag 432 to the RFID interrogator 456 or silence of the RFID tag 432, or the RFID tag 432 can convey the not-fully-secured information in the form of an OFF signal to the RFID interrogator 456.
  • the RFID interrogator 456 can in turn process the information.
  • the information can also include a part serial number, location of installation, date of installation, etc.
  • the RFID tag 432 is carried by the body 426 in this embodiment, or at least located near the body 426. Support between the RFID tag 432 and the body 426 can be effected in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag 432 resides within the compartment 440 and is protected by the cover 442 in installation. At this location, the RFID tag 432 is shielded from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage 438, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application. With reference now to FIG. 15, the RFID tag 432 has a substrate 423 and a circuit 464 in the form of an integrated circuit that stores data and information, among other possible functions. The circuit 464 is disposed on the substrate 423.
  • the circuit 464 includes a circuit path 425 that is established by conductive traces 427 arranged on the substrate 423.
  • the conductive traces 427 can be composed of copper in an example. Electric current can flow over the circuit path 425 via the conductive traces 427.
  • a break 431 in the circuit 464 interrupts the continuance of electric current flow in the circuit path 425.
  • the break 431 can be designed and constructed in different ways. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the break 431 is established by a discontinuity 433 in the circuit path 425.
  • the discontinuity 433 interrupts the continuance of electric current flow in the circuit path 425.
  • the circuit path 425 terminates at a first circuit path end 435 at one location, and terminates at a second circuit path end 437 at another location.
  • the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437 are located near each other and confront each other across the spacing defined by the discontinuity 433.
  • the discontinuity 433 is established via the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437.
  • the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437 can be constituted by conductive ink such as conductive carbon ink according to one example, by copper pads in another example, or by something else.
  • the RFID tag 432 can have more, less, and/or different circuit components than presented here; its precise components may be dictated by the intended functionality of the RFID tag 432.
  • the actuator member 436 receives abutment amid full securement actions and at full securement between the fluid line connector 412 and the discrete connector.
  • the actuator member 436 can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments, depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the body 426, RFID tag 432, and/or discrete connector. In this embodiment, and referring now to FIGS. 14 and 16, the actuator member 436 extends between the passage 438 and the RFID tag 432, and provides an interrelationship between the discrete connector and the RFID tag 432.
  • the actuator member 436, in assembly, is carried within the body 426 of the fluid line connector 412 and is situated and seated in the pass-through 444.
  • the actuator member 436 has one end at the passage 438 and has another end at the RFID tag 432.
  • the actuator member 436 is in the form of a cam member 472.
  • the cam member 472 is one-piece and has a generally U- shaped profile.
  • the cam member 472 has a base portion 474 and a pair of prong portions 476 depending from the base portion 474.
  • the base portion 474 directly confronts and opposes the RFID tag 432 across a spacing established therebetween, and particularly confronts and opposes the circuit path 425 at the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437.
  • the base portion 474 is illustrated with a slightly arched shape.
  • the base portion 474 can have other designs, constructions, and shapes in other embodiments to facilitate bridging of the break 431 amid use of the fluid line connector 412.
  • the base portion 474 can have a shape that is flatter and less arched than that shown in the depiction of FIG. 16.
  • projections or protrusions on each side of the base portion 474 can extend upward from the base portion 474 in an opposite direction of the prong portions 476; here, the projections/protrusions could more readily come into contact with the circuit 464 for bridging purposes.
  • the prong portions 476 include a first prong portion 475 and a second prong portion 477.
  • the first and second prong portions 475, 477 each have a working surface 480 defined adjacent terminal ends of the first and second prong portions 475, 477.
  • the working surfaces 480 are suspended and reside partially or more at the passage 438 where they are available for abutment by the discrete connector upon insertion of the discrete connector into the fluid line connector 12.
  • the working surfaces 480 can be slanted upward toward the base portion 474 and slanted with respect to a primary longitudinal axis of the discrete connector.
  • the actuator member 436 has a working portion 481 that is composed of an electrically- conductive material.
  • the working portion 481 bridges the break 431, as described below in more detail, electric current is able to flow and be transmitted between the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437 of the circuit path 425 via the working portion 481 and its electrically-conductive composition. Once bridged, electric current can travel from the first circuit path end 435, through the working portion 481, and to the second circuit path end 437, and vice versa.
  • the electrically-conductive material can be copper, graphite, silver or carbon particles, or another conductive material, depending on the embodiment.
  • the working portion 481 can take different forms in different embodiments.
  • the working portion 481 is constituted by a working surface 483 of the actuator member 436.
  • the working surface 483 is an exterior and outboard surface of the base portion 474.
  • the working surface 483 directly and immediately confronts and opposes the circuit path 425 at the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437.
  • a conductive ink 485 is applied and resides on a section or more of the working surface 483 (the conductive ink 485 is represented by a depiction in FIG.
  • the conductive ink 485 can be a conductive carbon ink, a conductive graphite ink, or the like.
  • other portions of the actuator member 436 can be composed of a material other than that of the conductive ink 485 at the working surface 483; for example, the base portion 474 and prong portions 476 can be composed of a plastic material or an electrically-nonconductive material. Electric current flow may then only take place via the conductive ink 485, and may not occur at other regions of the base portion 474 and at the prong portions 476.
  • the working portion 481 is constituted by a part or more of the base portion 474.
  • an entirety of the base portion 474 can be the working portion 481 and hence the entirety of the base portion 474 would be composed of the electrically-conductive material (this possibility is represented in FIG. 16 by reference numeral 487; as before, the depiction and broken line is for demonstrative purposes).
  • a layer of the base portion 474 can be the working portion 481 and hence the layer would be composed of the electrically-conductive material. The layer would have a greater thickness and depth than a mere surface.
  • other portions of the actuator member 436 can be composed of a material other than that of the electrically- conductive material; for instance, the other portions like the prong portions 476 can be composed of a plastic material or an electrically-nonconductive material. Electric current flow may then only take place via the electrically-conductive material, however constituted, and may not occur at other regions such as at the prong portions 476. Still, in yet another embodiment, the working portion 481 is constituted by an entirety of the actuator member 436 and hence the entirety of the actuator member 436 is composed of the electrically-conductive material.
  • the embodiments of the fluid line connector 412 of FIGS. 14—16 lack a switch component at the RFID tag 432.
  • a switch component is not interposed between the actuator member 436 and the RFID tag 432. Rather, the actuator member 436 and its working portion 481 have a direct and immediate path of engagement and interaction with the RFID tag 432, and without a switch component, nor any other component, therebetween.
  • the fluid line connector and assembly 410 When the fluid line connector and assembly 410 is employed in use, proper and full securement can be detected via RFID technologies.
  • the fluid line connector 412 and the discrete connector are brought together as the discrete connector is inserted into the body 426 and into the passage 438.
  • the first flange of the discrete connector comes into abutment with the actuator member 436 (i.e., the cam member 472 in this embodiment) upon insertion.
  • the cam member 472 is in the unactuated state and position prior to abutment. In its unactuated state and position, the cam member 472 is spaced away from the RFID tag 432 and lacks contact with the RFID tag 432 and lacks contact with the circuit 464.
  • the break 431 is not bridged and continuity is not effected at the discontinuity 433.
  • the RFID tag 432 and RFID interrogator 456 are precluded from communication with each other, according to an embodiment.
  • the absence of communication, and resulting silence of the RFID tag 432 serves as an indication that the fluid line connector 412 and discrete connector lack full securement.
  • the RFID tag 432 conveys an OFF signal to the RFID interrogator 456. The OFF signal serves as an indication that the fluid line connector 412 and discrete connector lack full securement
  • the first flange of the discrete connector makes surface-to-surface abutment with the working surfaces 480 of the cam member 472 upon insertion.
  • the cam member 472 is displaced and prompted to move upward in a first direction that is generally transverse and orthogonal to a second direction of the passage 438. Fluid flows through the passage 438 adjacent the cam member 472 in the second direction; further, the discrete connector is inserted into the fluid line connector 412 in the second direction.
  • the working portion 481 is in direct and immediate contact with the circuit path 425, and without any intervening components therebetween.
  • the working portion 481 makes direct and immediate contact with the first circuit path end 435 and with the second circuit path end 437.
  • the exterior and outboard surface of the base portion 474 contacts exterior surfaces of the first and second circuit path ends 435, 437.
  • the break 431 is thereby bridged via the working portion 481 and the contact made, and continuity is effected at the discontinuity 433.
  • the RFID tag 432 and RFID interrogator 456 are enabled to communicate with each other when the cam member 472 is in the actuated state and position and contact is made, according to an embodiment
  • the ability to communicate can serve as an indication that the fluid line connector 412 and discrete connector have full securement
  • the RFID tag 432 conveys an ON signal to the RFID interrogator 456.
  • the ON signal can serve as an indication that the fluid line connector 412 and discrete connector have full securement.
  • movement of the actuator member 436 from its unactuated position to its actuated position prompts a change of state of the RFID tag 432.
  • the change of state of the RFID tag 432 from a first state to a second state — serves as an indication that the fluid line connector 412 and discrete connector have reached full securement.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un raccord de conduite de fluide offrant des capacités de détection de fixation à distance et étant par conséquent équipé pour un assemblage initial, un contrôle de qualité ultérieur et des techniques d'entretien ultérieures qui peuvent être automatisées, robotisées et/ou autonomes. Le raccord de conduite de fluide, dans un mode de réalisation, comprend un corps, une étiquette d'identification par radiofréquence (RFID) et un élément actionneur. Le corps a un passage pour l'écoulement de fluide à travers celui-ci. L'étiquette RFID peut communiquer avec un interrogateur RFID et comporte un circuit avec une rupture dans le circuit. Une partie ou plus, telle qu'une surface, de l'élément actionneur est composée d'un matériau électroconducteur. La partie électroconductrice comble la rupture lorsque l'élément actionneur est actionné.
EP22788756.9A 2021-04-12 2022-04-12 Raccord et ensemble de conduite de fluide avec détection de fixation Pending EP4323683A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US17/227,624 US11306857B2 (en) 2017-08-11 2021-04-12 Fluid line connector and assembly with securement detection
PCT/US2022/024380 WO2022221253A1 (fr) 2021-04-12 2022-04-12 Raccord et ensemble de conduite de fluide avec détection de fixation

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4323683A1 true EP4323683A1 (fr) 2024-02-21

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP22788756.9A Pending EP4323683A1 (fr) 2021-04-12 2022-04-12 Raccord et ensemble de conduite de fluide avec détection de fixation

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4323683A1 (fr)
JP (1) JP2024514583A (fr)
KR (1) KR20230164174A (fr)
CN (1) CN117203462A (fr)
WO (1) WO2022221253A1 (fr)

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5604681A (en) * 1994-06-03 1997-02-18 Dover Corporation Coupler identification systems
SE0601035L (sv) * 2006-05-09 2007-11-10 Aba Sweden Ab Kopplingsanordning för gas- och vätskesystem
US7839288B2 (en) * 2006-06-26 2010-11-23 Chung Hua University Sealing detection mechanism using RFID tag for container
US7834776B2 (en) * 2008-02-01 2010-11-16 Lexmark International, Inc. RFID linking device-based switchable sensor, component with switchable sensor, and system for detecting component unseated
US11306857B2 (en) * 2017-08-11 2022-04-19 Norma U.S. Holding Llc Fluid line connector and assembly with securement detection
US11048994B2 (en) * 2017-08-11 2021-06-29 Norma U.S. Holding Llc Fluid line connector and assembly with securement detection

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2022221253A1 (fr) 2022-10-20
JP2024514583A (ja) 2024-04-02
CN117203462A (zh) 2023-12-08
KR20230164174A (ko) 2023-12-01

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