WO2023144655A1 - Connector assembly and connector - Google Patents

Connector assembly and connector Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023144655A1
WO2023144655A1 PCT/IB2023/050377 IB2023050377W WO2023144655A1 WO 2023144655 A1 WO2023144655 A1 WO 2023144655A1 IB 2023050377 W IB2023050377 W IB 2023050377W WO 2023144655 A1 WO2023144655 A1 WO 2023144655A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
connector
housing
elastic ring
terminal
locking
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2023/050377
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Liqiang Yao
Aibing Dong
Yong Wang
Yingchun Wang
Haibo Gan
Hua He
Original Assignee
Tyco Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
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
Application filed by Tyco Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. filed Critical Tyco Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
Publication of WO2023144655A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023144655A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/629—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances
    • H01R13/633—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances for disengagement only
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/639—Additional means for holding or locking coupling parts together, after engagement, e.g. separate keylock, retainer strap
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/627—Snap or like fastening
    • H01R13/6275—Latching arms not integral with the housing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/629—Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure electrical locking indicators, manufacturing tolerances
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/02—Contact members
    • H01R13/15—Pins, blades or sockets having separate spring member for producing or increasing contact pressure
    • H01R13/187—Pins, blades or sockets having separate spring member for producing or increasing contact pressure with spring member in the socket
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/44—Means for preventing access to live contacts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
    • H01R13/5202—Sealing means between parts of housing or between housing part and a wall, e.g. sealing rings
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
    • H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
    • H01R13/5219—Sealing means between coupling parts, e.g. interfacial seal
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
    • H01R13/627—Snap or like fastening
    • H01R13/6277—Snap or like fastening comprising annular latching means, e.g. ring snapping in an annular groove

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a connector and a connector assembly including the connector.
  • the high current connector usually has the following problems: it is inconvenient to unlock after the male and female terminals are mated, there is no quick lock function or the quick lock function is unreasonable, and the unlocking is not flexible; it does not have finger touch prevention function; it is unable to meet IP67 waterproof performance; it cannot be rotated 360 degrees before mutual mating is in place or is still can be rotated after mutual mating; the structure of it is not compact and the operation of is inconvenient.
  • the present invention has been made to overcome or alleviate at least one aspect of the above mentioned disadvantages.
  • a connector assembly comprising of: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device which is detachably mounted on the second connector and is configured to lock the first connector and the second connector in a mating state.
  • the locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring.
  • the elastic ring When the elastic ring is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; When the elastic ring is in the initial state, the locking member is in a locking position engaged with the first connector to lock the first connector and the second connector in the mating state; When the elastic ring is in the pressed state, the locking member is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector to allow the first connector to be separated from the second connector.
  • the locking device comprises two locking members, which are opposite to each in one diameter direction of the elastic ring.
  • the locking device also comprises two pressing members, the two pressing members are fixed on the elastic ring and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring perpendicular to the one diameter direction; when the two pressing members are pressed in a direction close to each other, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
  • the first connector comprises of: a first housing having a front end and; and a first terminal arranged in the first housing.
  • the second connector comprises of: a second housing having an insertion chamber; and a second terminal arranged in the second housing.
  • a plurality of key teeth are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the front end of the first housing, a plurality of key slots are formed on the inner peripheral wall of the insertion chamber of the second housing; when the front end of the first housing is inserted into the insertion chamber of the second housing, the key teeth are connected with the key slots, and the first terminal is electrically connected with the second terminal.
  • the first housing is capable of being moved between a pre installation position and a final installation position relative to the second housing; when the first housing is in the pre installation position, the key teeth are not engaged with the key slots to allow the first housing to be rotated relative to the second housing; when the first housing is in the final installation position, the key teeth are engaged with the key slots to prevent the first housing from being rotated with respect to the second housing.
  • the locking member when the locking member is in the locking position, the locking member butts against the rear end face (a) of the key tooth to lock the first connector to the second housing; when the locking member is in the unlocking position, the locking member is separated from the key tooth to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing.
  • the locking member when the first housing is in the pre installation position, the locking member is in the unlocking position to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing; when the first housing is in the final installation position, the locking member is in the locking position to lock the first connector to the second housing.
  • a circumferential groove is formed on the outer wall of the second housing, and the locking device is embedded in the circumferential groove of the second housing; a through hole corresponding to the locking member is formed on the outer wall of the second housing, and the locking member extends into the second housing through the through hole to engage with the first housing inserted into the second housing.
  • the locking device also includes a seal element, which is sleeved on the second housing to seal the circumferential groove on the second housing.
  • the sealing element comprises a cylindrical elastic body, and the elastic body has a pressing part corresponding to the pressing member, so that the pressing member is capable of being pressed by the pressing part.
  • an unlocking mark is formed on the pressing part of the seal element, so that the pressing part is capable of being visually identified according to the unlocking mark.
  • the first terminal comprises a columnar end adapted to be inserted into the second terminal and a plate end for electrical connection; the first connector also includes an insulating cap mounted on the columnar end of the first terminal to prevent human fingers from contacting the end face of the columnar end of the first terminal.
  • a through hole is formed on the insulating cap, so that a probe of a detection device is capable of passing through the through hole and electrically contacting the first terminal; the size of the through hole is formed to allow the probe of the detection device to pass through but prohibit the human finger from entering.
  • a mounting hole is formed on the end face of the columnar end of the first terminal, and the insulating cap is embedded in the mounting hole.
  • the second terminal comprises a cylindrical end suitable for mating with the columnar end of the first terminal and a crimping end adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable;
  • the second connector also includes an elastic electrical contact element, which is housed in the cylindrical end of the second terminal and is pressed between the first terminal and the second terminal to electrically connect the first terminal and the second terminal.
  • the second housing includes a barrel column located in the insertion chamber, the cylindrical end of the second terminal and the elastic electrical contact element are contained in the inner cavity of the barrel column, and the barrel column is inserted into the first housing.
  • the second connector also includes a first sealing ring, which is sleeved on the barrel column and compressed between the barrel column and the first housing to achieve the sealing between them.
  • the second housing is L-shaped and includes a first end and a second end perpendicular to each other, the cylindrical end and the crimping end of the second terminal are respectively located at the first end and the second end of the second housing;
  • the second connector also includes a connecting sleeve, which is threaded on the second end of the second housing to fix the cable to the second housing.
  • the second connector also includes a second sealing ring, which is sleeved on the second end of the second housing and compressed between the second end of the second housing and the connecting sleeve to achieve the sealing between them.
  • the second connector also comprises a sealing sleeve, which is housed in the connecting sleeve and is sheathed on the crimping end of the second terminal and the cable; the sealing sleeve is compressed between the cable and the connecting sleeve to achieve the sealing between them.
  • a connector comprising of: a housing; and a locking device detachably mounted on the housing for locking the connector to a mating connector.
  • the locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring.
  • the locking device comprises two locking members, which are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring.
  • the locking device also comprises two pressing members, the two pressing members are fixed on the elastic ring and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring perpendicular to the one diameter direction; when the two pressing members are pressed in a direction close to each other, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
  • the mated two connectors can be quickly locked by the locking device, and can be quickly unlocked by operating the locking device, which is very convenient to use.
  • Fig. 1 shows an illustrative perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 3 shows an illustrative exploded view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 4 shows an illustrative perspective view of a first connector and a locking device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the locking device is in a locking position;
  • Fig. 5 shows an illustrative perspective view of a locking device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 6 shows an illustrative perspective view of a second connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing sleeve of the locking device is in a state of separation from the second housing;
  • Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a second connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 8 shows an illustrative perspective view of a first terminal of a first connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • a connector assembly comprising of: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device which is detachably mounted on the second connector and is configured to lock the first connector and the second connector in a mating state.
  • the locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring.
  • the elastic ring When the elastic ring is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; When the elastic ring is in the initial state, the locking member is in a locking position engaged with the first connector to lock the first connector and the second connector in the mating state; When the elastic ring is in the pressed state, the locking member is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector to allow the first connector to be separated from the second connector.
  • a connector comprising of: a housing; and a locking device detachably mounted on the housing for locking the connector to a mating connector.
  • the locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring.
  • Fig. 1 shows an illustrative perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 3 shows an illustrative exploded view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the connector assembly mainly includes: a first connector 10, a second connector 20 and a locking device 30.
  • the second connector 20 is suitable for mating with the first connector 10.
  • the locking device 30 is detachably installed on the second connector 20 to lock the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in a mating state.
  • Fig. 4 shows an illustrative perspective view of the first connector 10 and the locking device 30 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the locking device 30 is in a locking position
  • Fig. 5 shows an illustrative perspective view of a locking device 30 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 6 shows an illustrative perspective view of the second connector 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the seal element 340 of the locking device 30 is in a state of separation from the second housing 210
  • Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a second connector 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the locking device 30 includes an elastic ring 310 and a locking member 320.
  • the locking member 320 is fixed to the elastic ring 310.
  • the elastic ring 310 When the elastic ring 310 is pressed radially from both sides of the elastic ring 310, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state.
  • the locking member 320 When the elastic ring 310 is in the initial state, the locking member 320 is in the locking position engaged with the first connector 10 to lock the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in the mating state.
  • the locking member 320 is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector 10 to allow the first connector 10 to be separated from the second connector 20.
  • the locking device 30 includes two locking members 320.
  • the two locking members 320 are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring 310.
  • the locking device 30 also includes two pressing members 330, which are fixed to the elastic ring 310 and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring 310 perpendicular to the one diameter direction.
  • the pressing member 330 and the adjacent locking member 320 are separated by 90 degrees on the circumference of the elastic ring 310.
  • the elastic ring 310 when two pressing members 330 are pressed close to each other, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
  • the elastic ring 310 is elastically deformed to the pressed state, the two locking members 320 move away from each other, so that they can be moved to the unlocking position separated from the first connector 10.
  • the first connector 10 includes: a first housing 110 with a front end 111 and a plurality of key teeth 112 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the front end 111; and a first terminal 120, which is arranged in the first housing 110.
  • the second connector 20 includes: a second housing 210 with an insertion chamber 201 and a plurality of key slots 212 formed on the inner peripheral wall of the insertion chamber 201; and a second terminal 220, which is arranged in the second housing 210.
  • the first housing 110 can be moved between a pre installation position and ta final installation position relative to the second housing 210.
  • the key teeth 112 are not engaged with the key slots 212 to allow the first housing 110 to be rotated with respect to the second housing 210.
  • the key teeth 112 are engaged with the key slots 212 to prevent the first housing 110 from being rotated relative to the second housing 210.
  • the rear end face 112a of the key tooth 112 is a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the first connector 10
  • the front end face 112b of the key tooth 112 is an inclined guide plane inclined to the axis of the first connector 10, so as to guide the key tooth 112 to pass through the locking member 320.
  • the locking member 320 when the first housing 110 is in the pre installation position, the locking member 320 is in the unlocking position to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out of the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the final installation position, the locking member 320 is in the locking position to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210.
  • a circumferential groove 202 is formed on the outer wall of the second housing 210, and the locking device 30 is embedded in the circumferential groove 202 of the second housing 210.
  • a through hole corresponding to the locking member 320 is also formed on the outer wall of the second housing 210. The locking member 320 extends into the second housing 210 through the through hole to be able to engage with the first housing 110 inserted into the second housing 210.
  • the locking device 30 also includes a seal element 340, which is sleeved on the second housing 210 to seal the circumferential groove 202 on the second housing 210, so as to prevent moisture and dust from entering the second housing 210 through the circumferential groove 202 and the aforementioned through-hole.
  • the seal element 340 includes a cylindrical elastic body 341.
  • the elastic body 341 has a pressing part 342 corresponding to the pressing member 330, so that the pressing member 330 can be pressed by pressing the pressing part 342.
  • the elasticity of the pressing part 342 of the seal element 340 is higher than that of the other parts of the seal element 340. In this way, the elastic ring 310 can be easily deformed by pressing the two pressing parts 342 from both sides.
  • an unlocking mark 343 is formed on the pressing part 342 of the seal element 340, so that the pressing part 342 can be visually identified according to the unlocking mark 343, which is convenient for the operator to perform the unlocking operation.
  • Fig. 8 shows an illustrative perspective view of the first terminal 120 of the first connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the first terminal 120 includes a columnar end 121 adapted to be inserted into the second terminal 220 and a plate end 122 for electrical connection.
  • the plate end 122 may be connected to, for example, a bus bar.
  • the first connector 10 also includes an insulating cap 130 mounted on the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120 to prevent human fingers from contacting the end face of the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120.
  • a through hole 131 is formed on the insulating cap 130, and the size of the through hole 131 is formed to allow a probe of a detection device to pass through but prohibit human fingers from entering.
  • the probe of the detection device can pass through the through hole 131 and electrically contact the first terminal 120.
  • a mounting hole 1211 is formed on the end face of the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120, and the insulating cap 130 is embedded into the mounting hole 1211.
  • the second terminal 220 includes a cylindrical end 221 suitable for mating with the columnar end 120 of the first terminal 120 and a crimping end 222 suitable for being crimped to a conductor of a cable (not shown).
  • the second connector 20 also includes an elastic electrical contact element 223, which is housed in the cylindrical end 221 of the second terminal 220 and pressed between the first terminal 120 and the second terminal 220 to electrically connect the first terminal 120 and the second terminal 220.
  • the second housing 220 includes a barrel column 211 located in the insertion chamber 201.
  • the cylindrical end 221 and the elastic electrical contact element 223 of the second terminal 220 are accommodated in the inner cavity of the barrel column 211.
  • the barrel column 211 is inserted into the first housing 110.
  • the second connector 20 also includes a first sealing ring 251.
  • the first sealing ring 251 is sleeved on the barrel column 211 and compressed between the barrel column 211 and the first housing 110 to seal the gap between them.
  • the second housing 210 is L-shaped and includes a first end and a second end that are perpendicular to each other.
  • the cylindrical end 221 and the crimping 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 also includes a connecting sleeve 230, which is threaded on the second end of the second housing 210 to fix the cable to the second housing 210.
  • the second connector 20 also includes a second sealing ring 252, which is sleeved on the second end of the second housing 210 and compressed between the second end of the second housing 210 and the connecting sleeve 230 to seal the gap between them.
  • the second connector 20 also includes a sealing sleeve 240, which is accommodated in the connecting sleeve 230 and sheathed on the crimping end 222 of the second terminal 220 and the cable.
  • the sealing sleeve 240 is compressed between the cable and the connector 230 to seal the gap between them.
  • a connector i.e. the aforementioned second connector 20
  • a locking device 30 detachably mounted on the housing 210, for locking the connector 20 to a mating connector 10 (i.e. the first connector 10 mentioned above).
  • the locking device 30 comprises of: an elastic ring 310; and a locking member 320, which is fixed on the elastic ring 310.
  • the locking member 320 When the elastic ring 310 is in the initial state, the locking member 320 is in a locking position engaged with the mating connector 10 to lock the connector 20 and the mating connector 10 in a mating state. When the elastic ring 310 is in the pressed state, the locking member 320 is in an unlocking position separated from the mating connector 10 to allow the connector 20 to be separated from the mating connector 10.
  • the locking device 30 includes two locking members 320, and the two locking members 320 are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring 310.
  • the locking device 30 also includes two pressing members 330, which are fixed to the elastic ring 310 and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring 310 perpendicular to the one diameter direction; When the two pressing members 330 are pressed towards each other, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
  • the first housing 110 is an integrated injection molded part formed on the first terminal 120 by injection molding.
  • the second housing 210 is an integral injection molded part formed on the second terminal 220 by injection molding.

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  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention discloses a connector assembly and a connector. The connector assembly comprises of: a first connector (10); a second connector (20) adapted to mate with the first connector (10); and a locking device (30) which is detachably mounted on the second connector (20) and is configured to lock the first connector (10) and the second connector (20) in a mating state. The locking device (30) comprises of: an elastic ring (310); and a locking member (320) fixed on the elastic ring (310). When the elastic ring (310) is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring (310) is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; when the elastic ring (310) is in the initial state, the locking member (320) is in a locking position engaged with the first connector (10) to lock the first connector (10) and the second connector (20) in the mating state; when the elastic ring (310) is in the pressed state, the locking member (320) is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector (10) to allow the first connector (10) to be separated from the second connector (20). In the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments according to the present invention, the mated two connectors can be quickly locked by the locking device, and can be quickly unlocked by operating the locking device, which is very convenient to use.

Description

CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY AND CONNECTOR
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims the benefit of Chinese Patent Application No. CN202210087872.0 filed on January 25, 2022 in the State Intellectual Property Office of China, the whole disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a connector and a connector assembly including the connector.
Description of the Related Art
With the vigorous development of the energy storage system, the demand for current connectors for energy storage applications is also growing. Following this, a variety of large current connectors have appeared in the market. At the same time, with the development of the energy storage system, more strict and standardized requirements have been put forward for electrical connectors. In the prior art, the high current connector usually has the following problems: it is inconvenient to unlock after the male and female terminals are mated, there is no quick lock function or the quick lock function is unreasonable, and the unlocking is not flexible; it does not have finger touch prevention function; it is unable to meet IP67 waterproof performance; it cannot be rotated 360 degrees before mutual mating is in place or is still can be rotated after mutual mating; the structure of it is not compact and the operation of is inconvenient.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention has been made to overcome or alleviate at least one aspect of the above mentioned disadvantages.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly. The connector assembly comprises of: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device which is detachably mounted on the second connector and is configured to lock the first connector and the second connector in a mating state. The locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring. When the elastic ring is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; When the elastic ring is in the initial state, the locking member is in a locking position engaged with the first connector to lock the first connector and the second connector in the mating state; When the elastic ring is in the pressed state, the locking member is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector to allow the first connector to be separated from the second connector.
According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device comprises two locking members, which are opposite to each in one diameter direction of the elastic ring.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device also comprises two pressing members, the two pressing members are fixed on the elastic ring and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring perpendicular to the one diameter direction; when the two pressing members are pressed in a direction close to each other, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first connector comprises of: a first housing having a front end and; and a first terminal arranged in the first housing. The second connector comprises of: a second housing having an insertion chamber; and a second terminal arranged in the second housing. A plurality of key teeth are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the front end of the first housing, a plurality of key slots are formed on the inner peripheral wall of the insertion chamber of the second housing; when the front end of the first housing is inserted into the insertion chamber of the second housing, the key teeth are connected with the key slots, and the first terminal is electrically connected with the second terminal.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first housing is capable of being moved between a pre installation position and a final installation position relative to the second housing; when the first housing is in the pre installation position, the key teeth are not engaged with the key slots to allow the first housing to be rotated relative to the second housing; when the first housing is in the final installation position, the key teeth are engaged with the key slots to prevent the first housing from being rotated with respect to the second housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the locking member is in the locking position, the locking member butts against the rear end face (a) of the key tooth to lock the first connector to the second housing; when the locking member is in the unlocking position, the locking member is separated from the key tooth to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the first housing is in the pre installation position, the locking member is in the unlocking position to allow the first connector to be pulled out of the second housing; when the first housing is in the final installation position, the locking member is in the locking position to lock the first connector to the second housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a circumferential groove is formed on the outer wall of the second housing, and the locking device is embedded in the circumferential groove of the second housing; a through hole corresponding to the locking member is formed on the outer wall of the second housing, and the locking member extends into the second housing through the through hole to engage with the first housing inserted into the second housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device also includes a seal element, which is sleeved on the second housing to seal the circumferential groove on the second housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the sealing element comprises a cylindrical elastic body, and the elastic body has a pressing part corresponding to the pressing member, so that the pressing member is capable of being pressed by the pressing part.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an unlocking mark is formed on the pressing part of the seal element, so that the pressing part is capable of being visually identified according to the unlocking mark.
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 end for electrical connection; the first connector also includes an insulating cap mounted on the columnar end of the first terminal to prevent human fingers from contacting the end face of the columnar end of the first terminal.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a through hole is formed on the insulating cap, so that a probe of a detection device is capable of passing through the through hole and electrically contacting the first terminal; the size of the through hole is formed to allow the probe of the detection device to pass through but prohibit the human finger from entering.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a mounting hole is formed on the end face of the columnar end of the first terminal, and the insulating cap is embedded in the mounting hole.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second terminal comprises a cylindrical end suitable for mating with the columnar end of the first terminal and a crimping end adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable; the second connector also includes an elastic electrical contact element, which is housed in the cylindrical end of the second terminal and is pressed between the first terminal and the second terminal to electrically connect the first terminal and the second terminal.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second housing includes a barrel column located in the insertion chamber, the cylindrical end of the second terminal and the elastic electrical contact element are contained in the inner cavity of the barrel column, and the barrel column is inserted into the first housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connector also includes a first sealing ring, which is sleeved on the barrel column and compressed between the barrel column and the first housing to achieve the sealing between them.
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 cylindrical end and the crimping end of the second terminal are respectively located at the first end and the second end of the second housing; the second connector also includes a connecting sleeve, which is threaded on the second end of the second housing to fix the cable to the second housing.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connector also includes a second sealing ring, which is sleeved on the second end of the second housing and compressed between the second end of the second housing and the connecting sleeve to achieve the sealing between them.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second connector also comprises a sealing sleeve, which is housed in the connecting sleeve and is sheathed on the crimping end of the second terminal and the cable; the sealing sleeve is compressed between the cable and the connecting sleeve to achieve the sealing between them.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector. The connector comprises of: a housing; and a locking device detachably mounted on the housing for locking the connector to a mating connector. The locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring. When the elastic ring is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; When the elastic ring is in the initial state, the locking member is in a locking position engaged with the mating connector to lock the connector and the mating connector in a mating state; When the elastic ring is in the pressed state, the locking member is in an unlocking position separated from the mating connector to allow the connector to be separated from the mating connector.
According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device comprises two locking members, which are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring.
According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the locking device also comprises two pressing members, the two pressing members are fixed on the elastic ring and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring perpendicular to the one diameter direction; when the two pressing members are pressed in a direction close to each other, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state. In the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments according to the present invention, the mated two connectors can be quickly locked by the locking device, and can be quickly unlocked by operating the locking device, which is very convenient to use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The above and other features of the present invention will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 shows an illustrative perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 shows an illustrative exploded view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 shows an illustrative perspective view of a first connector and a locking device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the locking device is in a locking position;
Fig. 5 shows an illustrative perspective view of a locking device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 6 shows an illustrative perspective view of a second connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sealing sleeve of the locking device is in a state of separation from the second housing;
Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a second connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and
Fig. 8 shows an illustrative perspective view of a first terminal of a first connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE IVENTION
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described hereinafter in detail with reference to the attached drawings, wherein the like reference numerals refer to the like elements. The present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiment set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.
In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. It will be apparent, however, that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are schematically shown in order to simplify the drawing.
According to a general concept of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly. The connector assembly comprises of: a first connector; a second connector adapted to mate with the first connector; and a locking device which is detachably mounted on the second connector and is configured to lock the first connector and the second connector in a mating state. The locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring. When the elastic ring is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; When the elastic ring is in the initial state, the locking member is in a locking position engaged with the first connector to lock the first connector and the second connector in the mating state; When the elastic ring is in the pressed state, the locking member is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector to allow the first connector to be separated from the second connector.
According to another general concept of the present invention, there is provided a connector. The connector comprises of: a housing; and a locking device detachably mounted on the housing for locking the connector to a mating connector. The locking device comprises of: an elastic ring; and a locking member fixed on the elastic ring. When the elastic ring is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; When the elastic ring is in the initial state, the locking member is in a locking position engaged with the mating connector to lock the connector and the mating connector in a mating state; When the elastic ring is in the pressed state, the locking member is in an unlocking position separated from the mating connector to allow the connector to be separated from the mating connector.
Fig. 1 shows an illustrative perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 shows an illustrative exploded view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in Figures 1 to 3, in the illustrated embodiment, the connector assembly mainly includes: a first connector 10, a second connector 20 and a locking device 30. The second connector 20 is suitable for mating with the first connector 10. The locking device 30 is detachably installed on the second connector 20 to lock the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in a mating state.
Fig. 4 shows an illustrative perspective view of the first connector 10 and the locking device 30 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the locking device 30 is in a locking position; Fig. 5 shows an illustrative perspective view of a locking device 30 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 shows an illustrative perspective view of the second connector 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the seal element 340 of the locking device 30 is in a state of separation from the second housing 210; Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a second connector 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 includes an elastic ring 310 and a locking member 320. The locking member 320 is fixed to the elastic ring 310. When the elastic ring 310 is pressed radially from both sides of the elastic ring 310, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state. When the elastic ring 310 is in the initial state, the locking member 320 is in the locking position engaged with the first connector 10 to lock the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in the mating state. When the elastic ring 310 is in the pressed state, the locking member 320 is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector 10 to allow the first connector 10 to be separated from the second connector 20.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 includes two locking members 320. The two locking members 320 are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring 310.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 also includes two pressing members 330, which are fixed to the elastic ring 310 and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring 310 perpendicular to the one diameter direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressing member 330 and the adjacent locking member 320 are separated by 90 degrees on the circumference of the elastic ring 310.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, when two pressing members 330 are pressed close to each other, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state. When the elastic ring 310 is elastically deformed to the pressed state, the two locking members 320 move away from each other, so that they can be moved to the unlocking position separated from the first connector 10.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 10 includes: a first housing 110 with a front end 111 and a plurality of key teeth 112 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the front end 111; and a first terminal 120, which is arranged in the first housing 110. The second connector 20 includes: a second housing 210 with an insertion chamber 201 and a plurality of key slots 212 formed on the inner peripheral wall of the insertion chamber 201; and a second terminal 220, which is arranged in the second housing 210. When the front end 111 of the first housing 110 is inserted into the insertion chamber 201 of the second housing 210, the key teeth 112 are engaged with the key slots 212, and the first terminal 120 is electrically connected with the second terminal 220.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 110 can be moved between a pre installation position and ta final installation position relative to the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the pre installation position, the key teeth 112 are not engaged with the key slots 212 to allow the first housing 110 to be rotated with respect to the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the final installation position, the key teeth 112 are engaged with the key slots 212 to prevent the first housing 110 from being rotated relative to the second housing 210.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, when the locking member 320 is in the locking position, the locking member 320 butts against the rear end face 112a of the key tooth 112 to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210. When the locking member 320 is in the unlocking position, the locking member 320 is separated from the key tooth 112 to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out of the second housing 210.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear end face 112a of the key tooth 112 is a vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the first connector 10, and the front end face 112b of the key tooth 112 is an inclined guide plane inclined to the axis of the first connector 10, so as to guide the key tooth 112 to pass through the locking member 320.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, when the first housing 110 is in the pre installation position, the locking member 320 is in the unlocking position to allow the first connector 10 to be pulled out of the second housing 210. When the first housing 110 is in the final installation position, the locking member 320 is in the locking position to lock the first connector 10 to the second housing 210.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, a circumferential groove 202 is formed on the outer wall of the second housing 210, and the locking device 30 is embedded in the circumferential groove 202 of the second housing 210. A through hole corresponding to the locking member 320 is also formed on the outer wall of the second housing 210. The locking member 320 extends into the second housing 210 through the through hole to be able to engage with the first housing 110 inserted into the second housing 210.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 also includes a seal element 340, which is sleeved on the second housing 210 to seal the circumferential groove 202 on the second housing 210, so as to prevent moisture and dust from entering the second housing 210 through the circumferential groove 202 and the aforementioned through-hole.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the seal element 340 includes a cylindrical elastic body 341. The elastic body 341 has a pressing part 342 corresponding to the pressing member 330, so that the pressing member 330 can be pressed by pressing the pressing part 342. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the elasticity of the pressing part 342 of the seal element 340 is higher than that of the other parts of the seal element 340. In this way, the elastic ring 310 can be easily deformed by pressing the two pressing parts 342 from both sides.
As shown in Figures 1 to 7, in the illustrated embodiment, an unlocking mark 343 is formed on the pressing part 342 of the seal element 340, so that the pressing part 342 can be visually identified according to the unlocking mark 343, which is convenient for the operator to perform the unlocking operation.
Fig. 8 shows an illustrative perspective view of the first terminal 120 of the first connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, 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 end 122 for electrical connection. The plate end 122 may be connected to, for example, a bus bar. The first connector 10 also includes an insulating cap 130 mounted on the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120 to prevent human fingers from contacting the end face of the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, a through hole 131 is formed on the insulating cap 130, and the size of the through hole 131 is formed to allow a probe of a detection device to pass through but prohibit human fingers from entering. The probe of the detection device can pass through the through hole 131 and electrically contact the first terminal 120.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, a mounting hole 1211 is formed on the end face of the columnar end 121 of the first terminal 120, and the insulating cap 130 is embedded into the mounting hole 1211.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the second terminal 220 includes a cylindrical end 221 suitable for mating with the columnar end 120 of the first terminal 120 and a crimping end 222 suitable for being crimped to a conductor of a cable (not shown). The second connector 20 also includes an elastic electrical contact element 223, which is housed in the cylindrical end 221 of the second terminal 220 and pressed 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 Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 220 includes a barrel column 211 located in the insertion chamber 201. The cylindrical end 221 and the elastic electrical contact element 223 of the second terminal 220 are accommodated in the inner cavity of the barrel column 211. The barrel column 211 is inserted into the first housing 110.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 also includes a first sealing ring 251. The first sealing ring 251 is sleeved on the barrel column 211 and compressed between the barrel column 211 and the first housing 110 to seal the gap between them.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the second housing 210 is L-shaped and includes a first end and a second end that are perpendicular to each other. The cylindrical end 221 and the crimping 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 also includes a connecting sleeve 230, which is threaded on the second end of the second housing 210 to fix the cable to the second housing 210. As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 also includes a second sealing ring 252, which is sleeved on the second end of the second housing 210 and compressed between the second end of the second housing 210 and the connecting sleeve 230 to seal the gap between them.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the second connector 20 also includes a sealing sleeve 240, which is accommodated in the connecting sleeve 230 and sheathed on the crimping end 222 of the second terminal 220 and the cable. The sealing sleeve 240 is compressed between the cable and the connector 230 to seal the gap between them.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a connector (i.e. the aforementioned second connector 20) is also disclosed, which comprises a housing 210; and a locking device 30, detachably mounted on the housing 210, for locking the connector 20 to a mating connector 10 (i.e. the first connector 10 mentioned above). The locking device 30 comprises of: an elastic ring 310; and a locking member 320, which is fixed on the elastic ring 310. When the elastic ring 310 is pressed radially from both sides of the elastic ring 310, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state. When the elastic ring 310 is in the initial state, the locking member 320 is in a locking position engaged with the mating connector 10 to lock the connector 20 and the mating connector 10 in a mating state. When the elastic ring 310 is in the pressed state, the locking member 320 is in an unlocking position separated from the mating connector 10 to allow the connector 20 to be separated from the mating connector 10.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 includes two locking members 320, and the two locking members 320 are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring 310.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 30 also includes two pressing members 330, which are fixed to the elastic ring 310 and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring 310 perpendicular to the one diameter direction; When the two pressing members 330 are pressed towards each other, the elastic ring 310 can be elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
As shown in Figures 1 to 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 110 is an integrated injection molded part formed on the first terminal 120 by injection molding. Similarly, the second housing 210 is an integral injection molded part formed on the second terminal 220 by injection molding.
It should be appreciated for those skilled in this art that the above embodiments are intended to be illustrated, and not restrictive. For example, many modifications may be made to the above embodiments by those skilled in this art, and various features described in different embodiments may be freely combined with each other without conflicting in configuration or principle.
Although several exemplary embodiments have been shown and described, it would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications may be made in these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the disclosure, the scope of which is defined in the claims and their equivalents.
As used herein, an element recited in the singular and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property.

Claims

What is claimed is,
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) which is detachably mounted on the second connector (20) and is configured to lock the first connector (10) and the second connector (20) in a mating state, wherein the locking device (30) comprises of: an elastic ring (310); and a locking member (320) fixed on the elastic ring (310), wherein when the elastic ring (310) is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring (310) is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; wherein when the elastic ring (310) is in the initial state, the locking member (320) is in a locking position engaged with the first connector (10) to lock the first connector (10) and the second connector (20) in the mating state; wherein when the elastic ring (310) is in the pressed state, the locking member (320) is in an unlocking position separated from the first connector (10) to allow the first connector (10) to be separated from the second connector (20).
2. The connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking device (30) comprises two locking members (320), which are opposite to each in one diameter direction of the elastic ring (310).
3. The connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein the locking device (30) also comprises two pressing members (330), the two pressing members (330) are fixed on the elastic ring (310) and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring (310) perpendicular to the one diameter direction; wherein when the two pressing members (330) are pressed in a direction close to each other, the elastic ring (310) is elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
4. The connector assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first connector (10) comprises of: a first housing (110) having a front end (111) and; and a first terminal (120) arranged in the first housing (110), wherein the second connector (20) comprises of: a second housing (210) having an insertion chamber (201); and a second terminal (220) arranged in the second housing (210), wherein a plurality of key teeth (112) are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the front end (111) of the first housing (110), a plurality of key slots (212) are formed on the inner peripheral wall of the insertion chamber (201) of the second housing (210), wherein when the front end (111) of the first housing (110) is inserted into the insertion chamber (201) of the second housing (210), the key teeth (112) are connected with the key slots (212), and the first terminal (120) is electrically connected with the second terminal (220).
5. The connector assembly according to claim 4, wherein the first housing (110) is capable of being moved between a pre installation position and a final installation position relative to the second housing (210); wherein when the first housing (110) is in the pre installation position, the key teeth (112) are not engaged with the key slots (212) to allow the first housing (110) to be rotated relative to the second housing (210); wherein when the first housing (110) is in the final installation position, the key teeth (112) are engaged with the key slots (212) to prevent the first housing (110) from being rotated with respect to the second housing (210).
6. The connector assembly according to claim 5, wherein when the locking member (320) is in the locking position, the locking member (320) butts against the rear end face (112a) of the key tooth (112) to lock the first connector (10) to the second housing (210); wherein when the locking member (320) is in the unlocking position, the locking member (320) is separated from the key tooth (112) to allow the first connector (10) to be pulled out of the second housing (210).
7. The connector assembly according to claim 6, wherein when the first housing (110) is in the pre installation position, the locking member (320) is in the unlocking position to allow the first connector (10) to be pulled out of the second housing (210); wherein when the first housing (110) is in the final installation position, the locking member (320) is in the locking position to lock the first connector (10) to the second housing (210).
8. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 3-7, wherein a circumferential groove (202) is formed on the outer wall of the second housing (210), and the locking device (30) is embedded in the circumferential groove (202) of the second housing (210); wherein a through hole corresponding to the locking member (320) is formed on the outer wall of the second housing (210), and the locking member (320) extends into the second housing (210) through the through hole to engage with the first housing (110) inserted into the second housing (210).
9. The connector assembly according to claim 8, wherein the locking device (30) also includes a seal element (340), which is sleeved on the second housing (210) to seal the circumferential groove (202) on the second housing (210); wherein the sealing element (340) comprises a cylindrical elastic body (341), and the elastic body (341) has a pressing part (342) corresponding to the pressing member (330), so that the pressing member (330) is capable of being pressed by the pressing part (342).
10. The connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein an unlocking mark (343) is formed on the pressing part (342) of the seal element (340), so that the pressing part (342) is capable of being visually identified according to the unlocking mark (343).
11. The connector assembly according to any one of claims 4-10, wherein the first terminal (120) comprises a columnar end (121) adapted to be inserted into the second terminal (220) and a plate end (122) for electrical connection; wherein the first connector (10) also includes an insulating cap (130) mounted on the columnar end (121) of the first terminal (120) to prevent human fingers from contacting the end face of the columnar end (121) of the first terminal (120).
12. The connector assembly according to claim 11, wherein a through hole (131) is formed on the insulating cap (130), so that a probe of a detection device is capable of passing through the through hole (131) and electrically contacting the first terminal (120); wherein 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; wherein a mounting hole (1211) is formed on the end face of the columnar end (121) of the first terminal (120), and the insulating cap (130) is embedded in the mounting hole (1211).
13. The connector assembly according to claim 11, wherein the second terminal (220) comprises a cylindrical end (221) suitable for mating with the columnar end (120) of the first terminal (120) and a crimping end (222) adapted to be crimped onto a conductor of a cable; wherein the second connector (20) also includes an elastic electrical contact element (223), which is housed in the cylindrical end (221) of the second terminal (220) and is pressed between the first terminal (120) and the second terminal (220) to electrically connect the first terminal (120) and the second terminal (220).
14. The connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein the second housing (220) includes a barrel column (211) located in the insertion chamber (201), the cylindrical end (221) of the second terminal (220) and the elastic electrical contact element (223) are contained in the inner cavity of the barrel column (211), and the barrel column (211) is inserted into the first housing (110).
15. The connector assembly according to claim 14, wherein the second connector (20) also includes a first sealing ring (251), which is sleeved on the barrel column (211) and compressed between the barrel column (211) and the first housing (110) to achieve the sealing between them.
16. The connector assembly according to claim 13, wherein the second housing (210) is L-shaped and includes a first end and a second end perpendicular to each other, the cylindrical end (221) and the crimping end (222) of the second terminal (220) are respectively located at the first end and the second end of the second housing (210); wherein the second connector (20) also includes a connecting sleeve (230), which is threaded on the second end of the second housing (210) to fix the cable to the second housing (210).
17. The connector assembly according to claim 16, wherein the second connector (20) also comprises of: a second sealing ring (252), which is sleeved on the second end of the second housing (210) and compressed between the second end of the second housing (210) and the connecting sleeve (230) to achieve the sealing between them; and a sealing sleeve (240), which is housed in the connecting sleeve (230) and is sheathed on the crimping end (222) of the second terminal (220) and the cable; wherein the sealing sleeve (240) is compressed between the cable and the connecting sleeve (230) to achieve the sealing between them.
18. A connector, comprising: a housing (210); and a locking device (30) detachably mounted on the housing (210) for locking the connector (20) to a mating connector (10), wherein the locking device (30) comprises of: an elastic ring (310); and a locking member (320) fixed on the elastic ring (310), wherein when the elastic ring (310) is pressed radially from both sides of it, the elastic ring (310) is elastically deformed from an initial state to a pressed state; wherein when the elastic ring (310) is in the initial state, the locking member (320) is in a locking position engaged with the mating connector (10) to lock the connector (20) and the mating connector (10) in a mating state; wherein when the elastic ring (310) is in the pressed state, the locking member (320) is in an unlocking position separated from the mating connector (10) to allow the connector (20) to be separated from the mating connector (10).
19. The connector according to claim 18, wherein the locking device (30) comprises two locking members (320), which are opposite to each other in one diameter direction of the elastic ring (310).
20. The connector according to claim 19, wherein the locking device (30) also comprises two pressing members (330), the two pressing members (330) are fixed on the elastic ring (310) and opposite to each other in another diameter direction of the elastic ring (310) perpendicular to the one diameter direction; wherein when the two pressing members (330) are pressed in a direction close to each other, the elastic ring (310) is elastically deformed from the initial state to the pressed state.
PCT/IB2023/050377 2022-01-25 2023-01-17 Connector assembly and connector WO2023144655A1 (en)

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CN108448324A (en) * 2018-03-01 2018-08-24 深圳市胜威南方科技有限公司 A kind of anti-drop power socket
CN108390224A (en) * 2018-03-06 2018-08-10 深圳市思科赛德电子科技有限公司 A kind of single bend high-voltage connector
CN208157749U (en) * 2018-04-28 2018-11-27 香江科技股份有限公司 A kind of low-pressure high-power power distribution unit
CN208173900U (en) * 2018-06-12 2018-11-30 新乡晨风绿能电气技术有限公司 A kind of high-voltage great-current connector
WO2020099889A1 (en) * 2018-11-16 2020-05-22 Zodiac Interconnect Uk Limited A telescopic connector
DE102020105041B3 (en) * 2020-02-26 2021-05-20 Harting Electric Gmbh & Co. Kg Connector element with locking device

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