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GB2638448A - Sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system - Google Patents

Sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system

Info

Publication number
GB2638448A
GB2638448A GB2402553.8A GB202402553A GB2638448A GB 2638448 A GB2638448 A GB 2638448A GB 202402553 A GB202402553 A GB 202402553A GB 2638448 A GB2638448 A GB 2638448A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
sleeve
assembly
connector
high temperature
connection end
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
GB2402553.8A
Other versions
GB202402553D0 (en
Inventor
Brinkmann Karsten
Dale Martin
Mitchley Stephen
Dolan Steven
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.)
Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Original Assignee
Jaguar Land Rover 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 Jaguar Land Rover Ltd filed Critical Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority to GB2402553.8A priority Critical patent/GB2638448A/en
Publication of GB202402553D0 publication Critical patent/GB202402553D0/en
Priority to PCT/EP2025/053335 priority patent/WO2025176485A1/en
Publication of GB2638448A publication Critical patent/GB2638448A/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N3/00—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust
    • F01N3/08—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous
    • F01N3/10—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust
    • F01N3/18—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operation; Control
    • F01N3/20—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operation; Control specially adapted for catalytic conversion
    • F01N3/2006—Periodically heating or cooling catalytic reactors, e.g. at cold starting or overheating
    • F01N3/2013—Periodically heating or cooling catalytic reactors, e.g. at cold starting or overheating using electric or magnetic heating means
    • F01N3/2026—Periodically heating or cooling catalytic reactors, e.g. at cold starting or overheating using electric or magnetic heating means directly electrifying the catalyst substrate, i.e. heating the electrically conductive catalyst substrate by joule effect
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R16/00—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for
    • B60R16/02—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric constitutive elements
    • B60R16/0207—Wire harnesses
    • B60R16/0215—Protecting, fastening and routing means therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R13/00—Elements for body-finishing, identifying, or decorating; Arrangements or adaptations for advertising purposes
    • B60R13/08—Insulating elements, e.g. for sound insulation
    • B60R13/0869—Insulating elements, e.g. for sound insulation for protecting heat sensitive parts, e.g. electronic components
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N13/00—Exhaust or silencing apparatus characterised by constructional features
    • F01N13/18—Construction facilitating manufacture, assembly, or disassembly
    • F01N13/1805—Fixing exhaust manifolds, exhaust pipes or pipe sections to each other, to engine or to vehicle body
    • F01N13/1827—Sealings specially adapted for exhaust systems
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N3/00—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust
    • F01N3/08—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous
    • F01N3/10—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust
    • F01N3/18—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operation; Control
    • F01N3/20—Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operation; Control specially adapted for catalytic conversion
    • F01N3/2006—Periodically heating or cooling catalytic reactors, e.g. at cold starting or overheating
    • F01N3/2013—Periodically heating or cooling catalytic reactors, e.g. at cold starting or overheating using electric or magnetic heating means
    • 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
    • H01R13/533—Bases, cases made for use in extreme conditions, e.g. high temperature, radiation, vibration, corrosive environment, pressure
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2240/00—Combination or association of two or more different exhaust treating devices, or of at least one such device with an auxiliary device, not covered by indexing codes F01N2230/00 or F01N2250/00, one of the devices being
    • F01N2240/16—Combination or association of two or more different exhaust treating devices, or of at least one such device with an auxiliary device, not covered by indexing codes F01N2230/00 or F01N2250/00, one of the devices being an electric heater, i.e. a resistance heater
    • 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
    • H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
    • H01R2201/26—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for vehicles

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Toxicology (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)

Abstract

A sealing connector assembly 100 for an electrically heated high temperature component 102 of a vehicle, has a connector arrangement 106 for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the high temperature component, and a sealable enclosure 101. The sealable enclosure comprises a sleeve 108, for enclosing the connector arrangement, which is protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure. A protraction facilitating element 112 is coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly. A sealing element 114 is configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly. A method of sealably connecting the connector assembly to an electrically heated high temperature component, such as a vehicle exhaust catalyst, is also disclosed.

Description

SEALING CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY AND HIGH TEMPERATURE COMPONENT SYSTEM
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to a sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system.
Aspects of the present invention relate to sealing connector assemblies (100) for an electrically heated high temperature component (102) of a vehicle, high temperature component systems (601) for a vehicle, having such an assembly and an electrically heated high temperature vehicle component, vehicles (701) having these assemblies and/or systems and methods for sealably connecting an electrical connector arrangement to such high temperature components.
BACKGROUND
It is known to provide water-and/or dust-proofing for certain elements in vehicles, such as automotive vehicles, for example to prevent entry of moisture or dust from a road surface into important vehicle components. However, previously considered arrangements typically are not sufficient to provide water/dust-proofing to the level that more demanding vehicle applications, conditions and environments require. In addition, high temperatures may prevent such previously considered arrangements retaining sufficient integrity to maintain their protective function. Such previously considered arrangements may also in any case be insufficiently robust, or on the other hand too cumbersome, for certain vehicle applications, or may be too difficult or time-consuming to install. Further, certain previously considered solutions are fixed or (semi-)permanent, removing the ability to maintain or access the component being protected. In addition, certain vehicle components when connected together may require functional connection or access between the components to be arranged or secured before or during application of water/dust-proofing.
It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art. 25
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a sealing connector assembly, a high temperature component system for a vehicle, a vehicle and a method for sealably connecting an electrical connector arrangement to an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, as claimed in the appended claims According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated high temperature component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly.
This allows for connection of electrical supply to an electrical component, and then protective sealing of the electrical connection, in an arrangement which is sufficiently robust to be applicable to significant water/dustproofing demand, and also more adjustable than previously considered arrangements.
The high temperature component may (instead or in addition) be a component having an operating temperature of at least 200 or 300 or 400 degrees centigrade. The component may be a vehicle exhaust.
In embodiments, the seal may be established or establishable after or on establishing the electrical connection.
Optionally, the sleeve is retractable away from the connection end of the assembly to allow connection of the connector arrangement to the high temperature component. This allows easy access for connection of the arrangement, before the enclosure is sealed.
In embodiments, wherein the protraction facilitating element comprises a deformable element. This allows the protraction facilitating element to be biased, providing a more convenient and efficient way to allow access and seal the enclosure. The protraction facilitating element may be a protraction and/or retraction facilitating element.
Optionally, the deformable element is configured to be: deformable into a compressed configuration; and/or expandable into an uncompressed configuration. This provides one way to bias the deformable element to allow the above advantages.
The deformable element may be configured to be: on retraction of the sleeve, deformable into a compressed configuration; and/or, on protraction of the sleeve, expandable into an uncompressed configuration.
The protraction facilitating element (whether or not comprising a deformable element, and whether or not (de)compressible) may be a passive element, for example an element which is not resilient or biased, such as a roller or glide element.
In embodiments, the sealing element is configured to, on abutment of the sleeve to a housing of the electrically heated high temperature component, establish a seal between the housing and the sleeve. This provides a way to finalise the sealing step after the electrical connection is established.
The sealing element may be configured to seal against a gasket. The sealing element may comprise a gasket. 35 Optionally, the sealing element is a mechanical sealing element, comprising a threaded nut. This provides a secure and robust way to effect the seal. The mechanical sealing element may comprise a floating nut which is disposed on or cooperates with the sleeve. The floating nut may be disposed around the sleeve, and for example on protraction of the sleeve may be movable towards the connection end of the sleeve to establish the seal. The sleeve may comprise a flange at the connection end. The mechanical sealing element or nut may be configured to interact with the flange, for example by clasping the flange against a housing or separate sealing element. A gasket may be disposed between the flange of the sleeve and this housing or separate sealing element.
In embodiments, the sleeve is of metallic composition. Other components may also be metallic. This provides heat resistance while allowing suitable manufacturing capability. The sleeve (and other components may alternatively be of heat resistant or heat tolerant composite material.
Optionally, the assembly comprises an electrically insulating element disposed between the sleeve and the connector arrangement. This prevents shorting between these components. The electrically insulating element may be disposed concentrically between the sleeve and the connector arrangement.
In embodiments, the connector arrangement comprises a fastener for electrical connection of the connector arrangement to the electrically heated high temperature component. This provides a way to secure the connection and prevent it loosening during vehicle use or during installation of the enclosure.
Optionally, the connector arrangement comprises a head connector component comprising the fastener, the fastener comprising a threaded connecting element. This provides a robust and secure way to provide the electrical connection.
In another option, the connector arrangement comprises a head connector component comprising an aperture for insertion of a threaded fastener. This provides easy access for securing the electrical connection.
Optionally, a portion of the head connector component nearest to the connection end is shaped in an arcuate form, wherein the aperture is disposed on a radially outer side of the arcuate form to allow insertion of the threaded fastener, and wherein the sleeve is arcuately shaped so as to allow retraction and/or protraction along the head connector component. This arcuate form allows access to the fastening arrangement, while still allowing protraction/retraction of the sleeve. The aperture may be disposed on a convex side of the arcuate form.
The head connector component may be metallic, or of composite material.
In embodiments, the electrically heated high temperature component is a vehicle exhaust catalyst.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a high temperature component system for a vehicle, comprising the sealing connector assembly of any of the preceding aspects or embodiments and an electrically heated high temperature vehicle component.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising the high temperature component system of the above aspect or the sealing connector assembly of any of the preceding aspects or 40 embodiments.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for sealably connecting an electrical connector arrangement to an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, comprising: providing a connector assembly comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated high temperature component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractable towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly; coupling the connector arrangement of the assembly to an electrical connector for the electrically heated high temperature component; protracting the sleeve towards the connection end; and using the sealing element to establish a seal between the housing and the sleeve.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated high temperature component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; and a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly, the assembly configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly.
Optionally, the assembly is configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly with a sealing element of the high temperature component.
In embodiments, a housing of the high temperature component comprises the sealing element.
In embodiments, the assembly comprises an assembly sealing arrangement cooperable with the sealing element of the high temperature component.
In embodiments, the assembly sealing arrangement comprises a mechanical sealing arrangement. Optionally, the mechanical sealing arrangement comprises one or more threaded elements. Optionally, the threaded elements are couplable to an outer portion of the assembly.
In embodiments, the assembly sealing arrangement is configured to seal against a gasket. The assembly sealing arrangement may comprise a gasket. Optionally, the assembly sealing arrangement is configured to compress the gasket between the connector assembly and the sealing element of the high temperature component.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a sealing connector assembly for an electrical high temperature component of a vehicle, comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrical high temperature component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated component of a vehicle, comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a sealing connector assembly for an electrical component of a vehicle, comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating electrical connection to the electrical component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, protractible towards an end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element; and a sealing element configured to establish a seal for the sleeve at the end of the assembly.
Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination.
That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures la and 1 b show a schematic representation of a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a flow chart with steps of a method for sealably connecting an electrical connector to an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3a shows a partially transparent schematic representation of a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3b shows a cutaway and exploded representation of a sealing connector assembly of Figure 3a; Figure 4a shows a cutaway representation of a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4b shows a schematic representation of a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 5a shows a partially transparent schematic representation of a sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 5b shows a schematic representation of sealing and housing components for the sealing connector assembly of Figure 5a; Figure 5c shows a partially transparent schematic representation of a portion of the assembled sealing connector assembly of Figures 5a and 5b; Figure 5d shows a cutaway representation of the assembled sealing connector assembly of Figure 5c; Figure 5e shows a schematic representation of the assembled sealing connector assembly of Figure 5c; Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a high temperature component system for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 shows a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In general, embodiments of the invention provide apparatus and systems which provide reliable waterproofing and/or dust/debris protection for electrical connections to high-temperature vehicle components, using a sealable enclosure for an electrical connector. A variety of components (some of much higher temperatures) that would not have been addressed by previously considered devices can be contemplated for waterproof connection, and also highly robust waterproofing up to for example IP6K9K standard can be achieved.
In general, these embodiments are suitable for any type of vehicle, such as automotive vehicles (cars, transit or cargo vehicles, electric moped bike or the like), aircraft or UAVs, marine vehicles, or the like. Embodiments of the invention are described in relation to automotive vehicles. One such vehicle 701 is described with reference to Figure 7.
Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. A high temperature vehicle component 102 has an electrical connector 104. In embodiments of the invention, the high temperature vehicle component may be any such component that requires an electrical supply in spite of the high temperatures involved; components of drive systems, for example. In embodiments of the invention, components which are electrically heated (using the electrical connection provided) are particularly considered. These may include a variety of such components, and in embodiments of the invention include for example heated catalysts used in automotive vehicle exhaust systems, a representation of a wider such system is described later with reference to Figure 6. As an example, such a catalyst may have working temperatures over 400 degrees centigrade.
A sealing connector assembly 100 provides water and/or dust protection for the interface between the electrical supply and the high temperature component 102. Water and/or dust protection is particularly important for automotive vehicles, in order to prevent damage to or corrosion of vehicle components exposed to external environments. Certain components are particularly important to protect; high temperature components and the interfaces between these and other vehicle elements (such as electrical supply) are examples. An example of a vehicle 701 having a sealing connector assembly is shown in Figure 7.
The electrical connector 106 (of the assembly) itself may be of any type that facilitates engagement, fastening or otherwise coupling to the electrical connector 104 of the high temperature component, as shown in Figure 1 b. Once the connectors 104 and 106 are connected, electrical power can be supplied to the component 102 via the cable core 110 attached or coupled to the assembly connector 106.
In order to protect the interface between these connectors, a sealable enclosure 101 is provided, having a sleeve or sheath 108. To cooperate with the sleeve, a sealing element 114 is provided, which is configured to establish a seal for the sleeve, to enclose or surround the connectors 104 and 106 within an environment sealed from external moisture and/or dust. This can be seen in Figure 1 b which shows a connected, protected configuration; the connectors have been moved together and are engaged, and the protective sleeve has been protracted or moved forward (relative to the assembly connector 106) in order to engage the sealing element 114, so that these elements can cooperate to provide the seal.
In embodiments, the sealing element 114 takes different forms. The sealing element may be mounted on the high temperature component 102, or may be composed as part of the connector assembly 100, for example engaging an element or feature of the housing of the component 102 to complete the seal. In embodiments, the sealing element comprises at least two components or sub-elements, which combine to form the seal; in embodiments, one part of the sealing element is provided by or on the connector assembly 100, and another on or as part of the housing of the high temperature component, or the (or a housing of) the connector 104 of the high temperature component. A variety of options for effecting the seal are contemplated; in embodiments, these must be sufficient to provide a high quality or highly robust seal, in order to provide a high standard of water and/or dust proofing. In embodiments, the sealing element 114 has a mechanical sealing element, in order to provide this security of seal; in embodiments, the sealing element comprises a gasket or other compressible or packing element. In embodiments, the sealing element includes a threaded nut, which engages a gasket; in embodiments the sleeve element incorporates a flange element at the connecting end, for engagement by the nut. One example of such a sealing element arrangement is described below with reference to Figures 3a and 3b. These kinds of sealing arrangements can provide the security of protective seal which other enclosure options cannot, such as simple latching or push-fit fixtures.
In other embodiments the sealing element 114 is provided by other components providing a suitably robust seal, but which may not later be detachable from the assembly, or from the component 102 (housing), or both. The sealing element may comprise a fixture permanently attaching the sleeve to the component 102.
The sleeve 108 is also provided in different configurations in embodiments. In embodiments, the sleeve is at least in part tubular or cylindrical, surrounding or enclosing the assembly connector 106 and the interface with the component connector 104. In other embodiments a cuboid or similar shape may be used, or a shape matching or mirroring that of the connector.
In particular embodiments, the sleeve is formed of a heat resistant or heat tolerant material; this is important in high temperature environments which will nevertheless require water or dust proofing. In embodiments, the sleeve is formed of stainless steel; in others the sleeve may be of a temperature resistant composite material. The sleeve can thus be used (in conjunction with the sealing element 114) to provide the protective sealing function, without being damaged or degraded by the high temperatures present at the high temperature component 102. In embodiments in which the sleeve is composed of a metallic material, an electrically insulating element can be provided between the sleeve and the assembly connector 106, in order to electrically isolate these two elements.
In embodiments, the connector assembly 100 has a protraction facilitating element 112. This part of the assembly allows or actuates the movement of the sleeve 108 to the protracted position shown in Figure 1b. The facilitating element can be mounted on a rear portion of the connector assembly (not shown), such as a cable enclosing the cable core 110. In embodiments, the sealing function will be completed by the junction between the region of the facilitating element distal from the sleeve 108 and this rear portion, for instance an electrical supply cable. A boundary of the sealed environment will in such case be provided by the electrical supply cable, the junction between this and the facilitating element 112, the sleeve 108, and the seal between the sleeve and the sealing element 114. In this manner the electrical core 110 and the connector 106 are protected throughout from the high temperature connection interface to another part of the vehicle supplying the electrical power (e.g. via the cable).
In general, the position of the assembly elements in Figure 1 a, with the assembly connector 106 exposed, the front edge of the sleeve positioned behind it, allows the coupling of the assembly connector 106 with the high temperature component connector 104. For example, this allows a manual interaction by a user, or an automated interaction by a separate device, which connects, affixes, or fastens the connectors together so that the electrical connection is secured. In the position illustrated in Figure 1 b, the sleeve has been protracted or moved forward, enclosing the assembly connector 106 which is now not accessible for connection interaction, but is protected from water and/or dust.
In embodiments, the protraction is actuated by the facilitating element 112. In embodiments, the facilitating element has a stowed or compressed form, as shown in Figure 1 a, and a deployed or decompressed form as shown in Figure lb, with the sleeve protracted towards the sealing element 114. In this embodiment, the facilitating element is a deformable or compressible element, providing a spring-like action to protract the sleeve.
In embodiments, the facilitating element may also facilitate retraction of the sleeve; for example, a connector assembly may have the sleeve in the (deployed) position shown in Figure 1 b, and the facilitating element may then be used to retract the sleeve, so that the connector 106 is accessible for connection to the high temperature component connector 104, before then being protracted to complete the seal.
As shown in Figures 1 a and 1 b, the facilitating element may be deformable, for example allowing retraction of the sleeve against the facilitating element, compressing the deformable element, with later decompression of the facilitating element producing the protraction movement. In embodiments, the facilitating element is formed of a composite material; this material may not be a heat proof or heat resistant material -it may be that provision of sufficient retraction/protraction efficiency and sealing capability is more efficient using a composite such as a silicon-based material. In such embodiments, a distance between the high temperature component 102 and the facilitating element is determined such that the facilitating element will not be damaged or degraded at operating temperatures, and the length of the sleeve 108 before the facilitating element is chosen accordingly. In embodiments in which a heat proof material can be used for the facilitating element, the facilitating element can be closer to the component 102, and/or can be incorporated as part of the sleeve 108 or its function combined with the sleeve, so that the facilitating element itself provides the sleeve protection and sealing functions.
In embodiments, the protraction facilitating element takes different forms. In an embodiment, the facilitating element may be a passive element which allows protraction (and/or retraction), but is not resilient or biased and so does not produce, initiate or actuate the protraction (and/or retraction) movement, in contrast to the above-described deformable/compressible element. In another embodiment, the facilitating element actuates a retraction of the sleeve 108, and is deformed to protract the sleeve; for instance, a deformable element may be stretched into deformation to protract the sleeve; the return of the deformable element to its unstretched form actuating retraction.
In an embodiment, the facilitation element allows the sleeve 108 to be received inside a rear portion of the connector assembly (for instance, a cable or cable arrangement), or in an alternative to receive the rear portion of the assembly inside the sleeve. For example, in the latter embodiment, a glide element is provided between an inner surface of the sleeve distal from the connector 106 and an outer surface of a supply cable; this glide element facilitates retraction and protraction of the sleeve.
Figure 2 illustrates steps of a method 200 for sealably connecting an electrical connector assembly such as those described above with reference to Figures 1a and 1b, to an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle. An initial step 202 is simply to provide the connector assembly 100 of Figure 1a/1 b, which has (a) a connector arrangement 106 for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated high temperature component 102; and (b) a sealable enclosure. The sealable enclosure has: a sleeve 108, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element 112, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element 114 configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly.
A typical method using these arrangements entails coupling 204 the connector arrangement 106 of the assembly to an electrical connector 104 for or of the electrically heated high temperature component 102. The sleeve 108 is then protracted 206 towards the connection end, and the sealing element is used 208 to establish a seal between the housing and the sleeve.
In embodiments, the assembly connector 106 may be fastened to the component connector 104, to complete the electrical connection while the sleeve is in the retracted position. In embodiments, a connector assembly 100 is supplied with the sleeve retracted, ready for the assembly connector to be connected, and after connection the sleeve is then protracted to allow the seal to be effected to protect the connection interface.
Figures 3a and 3b illustrate a specific embodiment of a sealing connector assembly 300 according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3a shows an external representation, and Figure 3b a combined cutaway and exploded representation.
The electrical connector 304 is in this schematic representation separated from the high temperature component for ease of reference; here the connector is a conducting pin, formed of stainless steel. In this embodiment, the conducting pin is surrounded by a ceramic insulating tube 334, in order to isolate the connector 304 from other components besides the assembly connector 306. An additional outer tube 332 is then provided around the insulating tube, which broadens in diameter at a lower end (i.e. the end towards the interface between the conducting pin and the assembly connector). This wider lower section of the outer tube supports the functions of the nut 314 and gasket 315 as described below, and is also threaded on its outer edge, in order to engage the nut 314, also described below. In this embodiment the outer tube is formed of stainless steel.
The assembly connector 306 is shown here in its connected position, coupled to the conducting pin 304. In this embodiment, the assembly connector has a hexagonally-shaped trunk section -this allows a corresponding tool (when the sleeve 308 is retraced) to be used to screw the assembly connector onto the conducting pin to fasten the assembly connector to it. Here the assembly connector is also formed of stainless steel. In similar fashion to as described above, once the connector is fastened to the conducting pin, the sleeve component can be protracted for sealing.
A cable 322 provides the electrical power to the connector 306; a core of the cable 322 is attached to a rear extended plate portion of the assembly connector 306, to provide the electrical supply. Attached to the outside of the cable 322 is the protraction facilitating element 312, here a silicon bellows. The attachment of the bellows to the cable, at a lower end of the bellows distal from the connection end, is sufficiently secure to maintain the high level of sealing required.
Attached to an inner surface of the silicon bellows is the lower end (distal from the connection end) of the sleeve 308. Again, this attachment is sufficient to maintain the high-quality seal. The sleeve 308 is a cylindrical tube, which extends from the silicon bellows and surrounds the connector 306, in similar fashion to the sleeve described above with reference to Figures la and 1 b. At the connection end, the sleeve has a small annular flange extending a short distance radially outwards, which cooperates with sealing elements described below.
The bellows 312 is deformable, so that the sleeve can be retracted against the bellows, compressing the bellows. In this embodiment, the sleeve moves backwards on retraction, along with the front end of the bellows, and is received around the cable 322, so that the sleeve is retracted over the cable. For protraction, the bellows decompresses and drives the sleeve forward.
In this embodiment, the sealing element comprises a floating nut 314, also formed of stainless steel. The sealing element also comprises an annular gasket 315, which abuts the underside of the wider lower section of the outer tube 332. As shown in Figure 3b, the nut is threaded internally, and screws onto the threading on the outside of the wider lower section of the outer tube 332. The increased diameter of this (widened) lower section of the outer tube 332 provides a mating surface for the nut 314. When the nut has been screwed onto this fitting, an internal step of narrower diameter at a lower portion of the nut abuts the small flange at the top of the sleeve 308. Between the sleeve flange and the outer tube the gasket 315 is disposed, in this embodiment formed of mica. The nut therefore clasps the sleeve flange and gasket onto the wider lower section of the outer tube. The gasket is sufficiently compressed to provide a high-quality seal between the sleeve and the outer tube, and the mechanical screw action of the nut provides a sufficiently strong grasp to maintain the seal.
In embodiments, before attachment of the connector 306 to the conducting pin 304 and protraction of the sleeve 308, the nut 314 (detached at this stage from any sealing elements) can be loosely disposed around the sleeve, ready to be moved forward and engaged to provide the seal, on protraction of the sleeve.
Figures 4a and 4b show a similar embodiment of a connector assembly 400. In this embodiment, the assembly has a generally arcuate form, in order to allow for different fastening arrangements to the conducting pin, and also for different connecting geometries in vehicles. As before, a conducting pin 404 is surrounded by an insulating tube, then an outer tube, having a wider lower section. A supply cable 422 is fitted with a bellows 412, and a sleeve 408, which is retractable against the bellows, and protractable by the bellows. The connector 406 is attached to a core of the cable, and is connected to the conducting pin.
The arcuate form of the assembly means that the sleeve and the connector both follow the same arcuate shape. The bellows attached to the cable is not arcuately shaped, and merely translates linearly along the cable on retraction. However, the sleeve when retracted follows the arcuate shape of the connector 406, but its own arcuate form means that this movement does not result in the sleeve impinging on the connector. In this embodiment, an insulating intermediate sleeve 443 is provided concentrically between the sleeve 408 and the connector 406, in order to ensure that there is no electrical contact between the sleeve (here of stainless steel as above) and the connector when the sleeve is retracted or protracted. Here the intermediary sleeve is formed of glass fibre -the intermediary sleeve may be attached to the sleeve 406, or may be attached to the bellows 412, in either way so as to follow the path of the sleeve when re/protracted.
Because these components have the arcuate shape, this allows the connector 406 to be fastened to the conducting pin using a connecting element or fastener inserted in the direction shown 445 through an aperture 446 in the connector. The aperture is disposed on a radially outer side of the arcuate form of the connector to allow the fastener to be inserted (whilst the sleeve and the insulating inner are retracted). The fastener can be a threaded fastener, inserted into the aperture in direction 445 and screwed onto (or into a fixture on) the conducting pin 404.
Once the connector has been attached, as in previous embodiments, the sleeve (and here the intermediary insulator) is protracted, meets the sealing elements (again, a gasket 415 abutting the outer tube) and a floating nut 414 is screwed onto the outer tube, clasping the gasket 415 between a short front-end flange of the sleeve 406 and the outer tube to provide the seal.
It may be noted that in an alternative embodiment, an intermediary insulating sleeve as in Figure 4 is provided in a straight-line format or arrangement as shown in Figures 3a and 3b; similarly, this insulator will prevent any contact between the connector 306 and the sleeve 308.
Figures 5a to 5e show representations of a connector assembly 500 of another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the sealing element 514 is disposed on or as part of the housing 502; a head end 508b of the sleeve of the assembly cooperates with this sealing element to form the seal.
As before, a conducting pin 504 is coupled with the high temperature component housing 502. A supply cable 522 having an electrical core 510 is fitted with a bellows 512, and a sleeve 508a, which is retractable against the bellows, and protractable by or using the bellows. The connector 506 is attached to a core of the cable, and is surrounded inside the sleeve by an insulating element 543.
In this embodiment, the head end 508b of the sleeve is arranged as a partial enclosure of the connector 506, and the sealing element 514 as a partial enclosure of the conducting pin 504. When the connector assembly is moved to connect with the conducting pin, the pin is received within the connector 506 as shown in Figure 5d, and a fastening element 545 is threaded onto the pin and/or connector, in order to keep the connection in place.
Once the connector has been attached, as in previous embodiments, the sleeve 508 is protracted towards the connection end of the assembly, and the two partial enclosures 508b and 514 are mated together in order to provide a complete enclosure of the junction, with a gasket 515 compressed between the two to form the seal of the enclosure.
Here, the seal is reinforced by a mechanical sealing arrangement 552 554. An outer portion of the head end 508b of the sleeve is provided as shown in Figures 5c and 5e with outer fastening elements 552a on either side. Cooperative outer fastening elements 552b are provided on an outer portion of the sealing element 514, so that when the enclosure is formed as shown in Figure 5e these outer fastening elements are aligned.
Fasteners 554 (stainless steel) are then inserted through the outer fastening elements 552a and screwed into the fastening elements 552b, thus securing the head 508b to the sealing element 514, and sealing the interface between the assembly and the component.
Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a high temperature component system 601 for a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention; a vehicle such as 601 illustrated in Figure 6 may have such a system. A vehicle exhaust system 658 has a vehicle exhaust catalyst element 606. A minimum temperature inside the vehicle exhaust is required in order for the catalyst to function optimally, therefore an electrical heating system is provided, resulting in a working temperature of the catalyst in embodiments of 400 to 800 degrees centigrade. An electrical connector 604 protrudes from the exhaust system 658 to allow connection of electrical supply. A connector assembly 600 is provided as described above, to sealably protect the interface between the supply and the vehicle exhaust system 658.
Figure 7 illustrates a vehicle 701 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 701 has a high temperature component 702, illustrated in Figure 1 as 102, which in this vehicle is at least partially exposed to the road surface under the vehicle. This would allow moisture and dust to attack a junction between the high temperature component and an electrical supply cable 722, for example supplying power to an electrical heating function of the high temperature component. The sealing connector assembly 700, such as that illustrated (100, 300, 400, 500) in Figures 1 a, Figures 3a and 3b, Figures 4a and 4b and Figures 5a to 5e, is therefore provided, to protect the interface between the electrical supply and the component 702 by providing a seal, which is nevertheless able to function in the high temperature environment.
It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application.

Claims (15)

  1. CLAIMS1. A sealing connector assembly for an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated high temperature component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractible towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly.
  2. 2. An assembly according to Claim 1, wherein the sleeve is retractable away from the connection end of the assembly to allow connection of the connector arrangement to the high temperature component.
  3. 3. An assembly according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein the protraction facilitating element comprises a deformable element.
  4. 4. An assembly according to Claim 3, wherein the deformable element is configured to be: deformable into a compressed configuration; and/or expandable into an uncompressed configuration.
  5. 5. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the sealing element is configured to, on abutment of the sleeve to a housing of the electrically heated high temperature component, establish a seal between the housing and the sleeve.
  6. 6. An assembly according to Claim 5, wherein the sealing element is a mechanical sealing element comprising a threaded nut.
  7. 7. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the sleeve is of metallic composition.
  8. 8. An assembly according to Claim 7, comprising an electrically insulating element disposed between the sleeve and the connector arrangement.
  9. 9. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a fastener for electrical connection of the connector arrangement to the electrically heated high temperature component.
  10. 10. An assembly according to Claim 9, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a head connector component comprising: the fastener, the fastener comprising a threaded connecting element; or an aperture for insertion of a threaded fastener.
  11. 11. An assembly according to Claim 10, wherein a portion of the head connector component nearest to the connection end is shaped in an arcuate form, wherein the aperture is disposed on a radially outer side of the arcuate form to allow insertion of the threaded fastener, and wherein the sleeve is arcuately shaped so as to allow retraction and/or protraction along the head connector component.
  12. 12. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrically heated high temperature component is a vehicle exhaust catalyst.
  13. 13. A high temperature component system for a vehicle, comprising the sealing connector assembly of any preceding claim and an electrically heated high temperature vehicle component.
  14. 14. A vehicle comprising the high temperature component system of Claim 13 or the sealing connector assembly of Claims 1 to 12.
  15. 15. A method for sealably connecting an electrical connector arrangement to an electrically heated high temperature component of a vehicle, comprising: providing a connector assembly comprising: a connector arrangement for facilitating, at a connection end of the assembly, electrical connection to the electrically heated high temperature component; and a sealable enclosure, comprising: a sleeve, for enclosing the connector arrangement, protractable towards the connection end of the assembly to allow sealing of the enclosure; a protraction facilitating element, coupled to the sleeve and disposed at an end of the sleeve distal from the connection end of the assembly; and a sealing element configured to, on protraction of the sleeve to the connection end of the assembly, establish a seal for the sleeve at the connection end of the assembly; coupling the connector arrangement of the assembly to an electrical connector for the electrically heated high temperature component; protracting the sleeve towards the connection end; and using the sealing element to establish a seal between the housing and the sleeve.
GB2402553.8A 2024-02-23 2024-02-23 Sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system Pending GB2638448A (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2402553.8A GB2638448A (en) 2024-02-23 2024-02-23 Sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system
PCT/EP2025/053335 WO2025176485A1 (en) 2024-02-23 2025-02-07 Sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2402553.8A GB2638448A (en) 2024-02-23 2024-02-23 Sealing connector assembly and high temperature component system

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Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20210340894A1 (en) * 2020-04-30 2021-11-04 Eberspaecher Exhaust Technology Gmbh Connection unit for the connection of an electrical supply line to a connection element of a heatable exhaust gas system
US20230151749A1 (en) * 2021-11-18 2023-05-18 Faurecia Emissions Control Technologies, Usa, Llc Exhaust aftertreatment system with electrical connector

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP3494498B2 (en) * 1995-04-17 2004-02-09 日本碍子株式会社 Electrode structure and electric heater
CN104131866A (en) * 2013-04-30 2014-11-05 住友电装株式会社 Harness for electric heating catalyst

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20210340894A1 (en) * 2020-04-30 2021-11-04 Eberspaecher Exhaust Technology Gmbh Connection unit for the connection of an electrical supply line to a connection element of a heatable exhaust gas system
US20230151749A1 (en) * 2021-11-18 2023-05-18 Faurecia Emissions Control Technologies, Usa, Llc Exhaust aftertreatment system with electrical connector

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WO2025176485A1 (en) 2025-08-28

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