Patent Description:
Multiple component (e.g., fluid) applicators include dispensing systems that receive separate inert material components, mix the components according to a predetermined ratio, and then dispense the components as an activated compound. For example, multiple component applicators are often used to dispense epoxies and polyurethanes that solidify after mixing of a resin component and an activating component, which are individually inert. Some dispensing systems include electrically heated hoses that increase the temperature of the material components flowing through each hose to a desired temperature, ensuring a proper activated mixture is achieved. The electrically heated hoses include electrical connectors that are used to electrically couple each heated hose segment to an electrical power source. Incorrectly connecting the electrical connectors can result in a decreased amount of electrical current supplied to the heated hoses, resulting in decreased performance of the electrically heated hoses.

<CIT> discloses a dock configured to detachably secure a monitor and/or a module. A monitor mount is configured to detachably secure a small monitor and/or a large monitor individually or concurrently. The small monitor and the large monitor may have different sizes. A monitor may have a dog bone-shaped back portion and/or a reversible handle. Couplings are configured to detachably secure devices to one another. A belt mount is configured to detachably secure a device to a support structure. A rack is configured to detachably secure a module therein in multiple positions in which the module is mechanically connected to the rack and electrically connected or disconnected to the rack. A connector is configured to electrically connect any two or more of a monitor mount, a rack, and/or a module.

<CIT> discloses a direct current outlet. A plug is adapted to be connected to a DC outlet to supply a DC power to the plug. The plug includes plug pins and a substantially quadrangular- shaped surrounding wall for surrounding the plug pins. The DC outlet includes: an outlet main body having an outlet unit to which the plug is adapted to be connected. The outlet unit includes a plug- receiving portion having pin- inserting holes into which the plug pins are inserted; an insertion groove formed to surround a periphery of the plug-receiving portion, the insertion groove being adapted to receive the surrounding wall; and pin- receiving pieces for being connected with the plug pins that are respectively inserted through the pin- receiving holes. Two pin-receiving holes corresponding to the pin-receiving pieces are arranged along a reference side of the plug- receiving portion and offset closer to the reference side than an opposite side to the reference side.

<CIT> discloses a feeder for apparatus for ejecting a mixture of liquids, e.g. urethane foam, which comprises a pair of swash plate proportioning pumps one individual to each of the liquids, e.g. resin and isocyanate, each proportioning pump being fed by a gear pump from a supply of the respective liquid. Seepage along the drive shafts of the isocyanate pumps is continuously removed by bathing them in a recirculating stream of flushing agent. The swash plate and gear pumps and flushing agent pump are all driven by a single motor from a common chain drive. The liquids are heated during passage through separate hoses to a common dispensing head or gun, by immersed coil electric resistance heaters extending lengthwise freely within the hoses. A novel control system is provided for the hose heater circuit, the adequacy of the liquid supply and other operating conditions.

<CIT> discloses a recirculation block which includes a top face and a bottom face that are connected by a right side face, a left side face, a front face, and a rear face. The recirculation block further includes a pair of junction block entry ports and a pair of side block entry ports. Both of the junction block entry ports are positioned on the bottom face. The first side block entry port is positioned on the right side face and the second side block entry port is positioned on the left side face. The recirculation block further includes a pair of exit ports. The first exit port is in fluid communication with both the first junction block entry port and the first side block entry port. The second exit port is in fluid communication with both the second junction block entry port and the second side block entry port.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a heated hose assembly according to claim <NUM>.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method according to claim <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of heated hose assembly <NUM> including electrical connector system <NUM>. Heated hose assembly <NUM> includes first heated hose <NUM>, second heated hose <NUM>, and electrical connector system <NUM>. In some examples, heated hose assembly <NUM> can be used with multiple component dispensing systems that receive separate inert material components, mix the components according to a predetermined ratio, and then dispense the components as an activated compound. Heated hose assembly <NUM> includes electrically heated hoses that are configured to increase the temperature of the material components flowing through each hose, ensuring a proper activated mixture is achieved.

More specifically, first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> are configured to transfer a first fluid component and a second fluid component, respectively, the first and second fluid components can be different from each other. First heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> are independently heated hoses that receive separate electrical power (e.g. electrical current) at the heating elements (e.g. wires) of each heated hose <NUM>, <NUM> to heat each hose independently from the other hose. In some examples, the heating elements can be one or more copper wires wrapped around each of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>. Independently heating first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> allows a greater power density to be achieved, providing increased heating capabilities for each of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>. Electrical connector system <NUM> is coupled to first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>. Electrical connector system <NUM> is configured to electrically couple the heating elements of each heated hose segment to an electrical power source.

Electrical connector system <NUM> includes first electrical connector <NUM>, second electrical connector <NUM>, third electrical connector <NUM>, and fourth electrical connector <NUM>. First electrical connector <NUM> is electrically coupled to heating elements 14a of first heated hose <NUM>. Second electrical connector <NUM> is electrically coupled to heating elements 14a of first heated hose <NUM>. Third electrical connector <NUM> is electrically coupled to heating elements 16a of second heated hose <NUM>. Fourth electrical connector <NUM> is electrically coupled to heating elements 16a of second heated hose <NUM>. In some examples, first electrical connector <NUM>, second electrical connector <NUM>, and heating elements 14a can be referred to as the first sub-assembly of heated hose assembly <NUM>. Further, in some examples, third electrical connector <NUM>, fourth electrical connector <NUM>, and heating elements 16a can be referred to as the second sub-assembly of heated hose assembly <NUM>. The first and second sub-assemblies of heated hose assembly <NUM> are configured to increase the temperature of the fluid components flowing through first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>, respectively.

First electrical connector <NUM> is a male connector and second electrical connector <NUM> is a female connector, and first electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate and connect with second electrical connector <NUM>. Third electrical connector <NUM> is a male connector and fourth electrical connector <NUM> is a female connector, and third electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate and connect with fourth electrical connector <NUM>.

More specifically, both first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> include dual male/female connections. First electrical connector <NUM> includes an inner female connector positioned at a central axis of first electrical connector <NUM> and an outer male connector positioned radially outward from the inner female connector. Second electrical connector <NUM> includes an inner male connector positioned at a central axis of second electrical connector <NUM> and an outer female connector positioned radially outward from the inner male connector. As such, the inner female connector of first electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with the inner male connector of second electrical connector <NUM>. The outer male connector of first electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with the outer female connector of second electrical connector <NUM>. In some examples, the first male/female connection can be structural (e.g., inner male connector of second electrical connector <NUM> and inner female connector of first electrical connector <NUM>) and the second male/female connection can be electrical (e.g., outer female connector of second electrical connector <NUM> and outer male connector of first electrical connector <NUM>).

Likewise, both third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> include dual male/female connections. Third electrical connector <NUM> includes an inner female connector positioned at a central axis of third electrical connector <NUM> and an outer male connector positioned radially outward from the inner female connector. Fourth electrical connector <NUM> includes an inner male connector positioned at a central axis of fourth electrical connector <NUM> and an outer female connector positioned radially outward from the inner male connector. As such, the inner female connector of third electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with the inner male connector of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. The outer male connector of third electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with the outer female connector of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. In some examples, the third male/female connection can be structural (e.g., outer female connector of fourth electrical connector <NUM> and outer male connector of third electrical connector <NUM>) and the fourth male/female connection can be electrical (e.g., inner male connector of fourth electrical connector <NUM> and inner female connector of third electrical connector <NUM>).

In the embodiment shown, first heated hose <NUM> includes two of each of first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM>. Likewise, second heated hose <NUM> includes two of each of third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM>. In another embodiment, heated hoses <NUM>, <NUM> can include more or less than two of each of electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Each of the electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are configured to be coupled to a mating connector to transfer electrical current from a power source to either first heated hose <NUM> or second heated hose <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, heated hose assembly <NUM> can include a plurality of heated hose segments that are connected to increase the overall length of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>. This allows a user to dispense the activated fluid component mixture at a location remote from the fluid component containers. Each of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> includes fluid connectors at the distal ends of each hose <NUM>, <NUM>, fluidly coupling each hose segment to another hose segment to provide a flow path for the first fluid component and the second fluid component. Further, each of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> include electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, electrically coupling each hose segment to another hose segment to allow electric current to transfer through each of the hose segments.

More specifically, one segment of first heated hose <NUM> includes first electrical connector <NUM> and another segment of first heated hose <NUM> includes second electrical connector <NUM>. First electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> are configured to mate and electrically connect, allowing electric current to transfer from one segment of first heated hose <NUM> to another segment of first heated hose <NUM>. Similarly, one segment of second heated hose <NUM> includes third electrical connector <NUM> and another segment of second heated hose <NUM> includes fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> are configured to mate and electrically connect, allowing electric current to transfer from one segment of second heated hose <NUM> to another segment of second heated hose <NUM>. As such, electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> ensure electric current is transferred to each segment of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> to increase the temperature of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of first electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a front view of first electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view of second electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a front view of second electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> disconnected. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> connected. <FIG> will be discussed together.

Referring to <FIG>, first electrical connector <NUM> includes first body <NUM>, first flange <NUM>, first key <NUM>, first threaded insert <NUM>, second threaded insert <NUM>, first end face <NUM>, first seal <NUM>, first metallic connector <NUM>, and first aperture <NUM>. First body <NUM> is the main body portion of first electrical connector <NUM> that the other components of first electrical connector <NUM> are coupled. First flange <NUM> is positioned adjacent first body <NUM> and first flange <NUM> extends radially outward from first body <NUM>. First flange <NUM> includes apertures extending through first flange <NUM>, in which first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM> are positioned. First threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM> are configured to accept and mate with fasteners, discussed further below. First threaded insert <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from second threaded insert <NUM> about first axis <NUM>. In some examples, first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM> can be molded into first flange <NUM> during manufacturing of first electrical connector <NUM>. In other examples, first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM> can be coupled to first flange <NUM> after manufacturing of first electrical connector <NUM>.

First key <NUM> is positioned adjacent first flange <NUM> and first key <NUM> extends axially outward from first flange <NUM> and first body <NUM>, with respect to first axis <NUM> extending through a center of first flange <NUM> and first body <NUM>. First key <NUM> is generally cylindrical in shape and includes first cutout <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> extending from first end face <NUM> of first key <NUM> to first flange <NUM>. In the example shown, first cutout <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> include an arc or partial circle shaped cutout extending into the cylindrically shaped first key <NUM>. In another example, first cutout <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> can have any desired shape, as long as first cutout <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> have identical shaped geometry. First cutout <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from second cutout <NUM> about first axis <NUM>. First end face <NUM> of first key <NUM> is positioned at a distal end of first key <NUM>. First seal <NUM> is positioned adjacent the location in which first key <NUM> interfaces with first flange <NUM> and first seal <NUM> surrounds a circumference of first key <NUM>. First seal <NUM> is configured to prevent debris from entering first electrical connector <NUM> when first electrical connector <NUM> is connected to second electrical connector <NUM>. In the example shown, first seal <NUM> is an O-ring seal, but in another example, first seal <NUM> can be any component that prevents debris from entering first electrical connector <NUM> when first electrical connector <NUM> is connected to second electrical connector <NUM>.

First end face <NUM> is configured to cover first metallic connector <NUM>, preventing a user from touching first metallic connector <NUM>. First metallic connector <NUM> is a female connector positioned within first body <NUM> and first key <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM>. First metallic connector <NUM> is the component that electrically couples first electrical connector <NUM> to second electrical connector <NUM>, allowing electric current to transfer between each connector <NUM>, <NUM>. A user touching first metallic connector <NUM> and second metallic connector <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM> at the same time can result in an electrical circuit being completed, which could shock or harm the user. As such, first end face <NUM> is configured to prevent the user from touching first metallic connector <NUM> and harming themselves during connecting or disconnecting of first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM>. First aperture <NUM> is axially aligned with first axis <NUM> and first aperture <NUM> extends through first end face <NUM>. First aperture <NUM> allows access to first metallic connector <NUM>, allowing second metallic connector <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM> to interface with first metallic connector <NUM>, discussed further below. First electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with second electrical connector <NUM> to complete an electrical circuit, allowing electric current to transfer from first electrical connector <NUM> to second electrical connector <NUM>. Further, first electrical connector <NUM> is symmetric about a plane extending through a center axis of first threaded insert <NUM> and a center axis of second threaded insert <NUM>, allowing first electrical connector <NUM> to be rotated <NUM> degrees about first axis <NUM> and still mate and couple with second electrical connector <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, second electrical connector <NUM> includes second body <NUM>, second flange <NUM>, second key <NUM>, first fastener <NUM>, second fastener <NUM>, second metallic connector <NUM>, and second aperture <NUM>. Second body <NUM> is the main body portion of second electrical connector <NUM> that the other components of second electrical connector <NUM> are coupled. Second flange <NUM> is positioned adjacent second body <NUM> and second flange <NUM> extends radially outward from second body <NUM>. Second flange <NUM> includes apertures extending through second flange <NUM>, in which first fastener <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> are positioned. First fastener <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> are configured to mate with first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM>, respectively. First fastener <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from second fastener <NUM> about second axis <NUM>.

Second key <NUM> is positioned within second flange <NUM> and second body <NUM>. More specifically, second key <NUM> extends axially inward into second flange <NUM> and second body <NUM>, with respect to second axis <NUM> extending through a center of second flange <NUM> and second body <NUM>. Second key <NUM> is generally cylindrical in shape and includes first protrusion <NUM> and second protrusion <NUM> extending inward toward second axis <NUM>. In the example shown, first protrusion <NUM> and second protrusion <NUM> include an arc or partial circle shaped protrusion extending inward from the cylindrically shaped second key <NUM>. In another example, first protrusion <NUM> and second protrusion <NUM> can have any desired shape, as long as first protrusion <NUM> and second protrusion <NUM> have identical shaped geometry. First protrusion <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from second protrusion <NUM> about second axis <NUM>.

Second aperture <NUM> is axially aligned with second axis <NUM> and second aperture <NUM> extends into second body <NUM>. Second aperture <NUM> provides a location in which second metallic connector <NUM> can be coupled. Second metallic connector <NUM> is a male connector positioned within second aperture <NUM> of second body <NUM> and second key <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. Second metallic connector <NUM> is the component that electrically couples second electrical connector <NUM> to first electrical connector <NUM>, allowing electric current to transfer between each connector. More specifically, second metallic connector <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM> is inserted into first metallic connector <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> to complete an electric circuit and to transfer electric current between first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM>. Second electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with and be coupled to first electrical connector <NUM> during operation of heated hose assembly <NUM>, discussed further below. Further, second electrical connector <NUM> is symmetric about a plane extending through a center axis of first fastener <NUM> and a center axis of second fastener <NUM>, allowing second electrical connector <NUM> to be rotated <NUM> degrees about second axis <NUM> and still mate and couple with first electrical connector <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, first electrical connector <NUM> is shown disconnected from second electrical connector <NUM> (<FIG>) and first electrical connector <NUM> is shown connected to second electrical connector <NUM> (<FIG>). When first electrical connector <NUM> is disconnected from second electrical connector <NUM>, the features and/or components of first electrical connector <NUM> are separated from second electrical connector <NUM> such that no electrical current is transferring between the connectors. When first electrical connector <NUM> is connected to second electrical connector <NUM>, the features and/or components of first electrical connector <NUM> are contacting the features and/or components of second electrical connector <NUM> such that electrical current can transfer between the connectors.

More specifically, when first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> are connected, first flange <NUM> is adjacent and abuts second flange <NUM>. First fastener <NUM> is inserted into and secured to first threaded insert <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> is inserted into and secured to second threaded insert <NUM>. Securing fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> to threaded inserts <NUM>, <NUM> ensures that first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> will remain secured together during operation of heated hose assembly <NUM>. First seal <NUM> is positioned and compressed between first flange <NUM> and second flange <NUM>, producing a force that pushes first flange <NUM> and second flange <NUM> away from each other. The force produced by first seal <NUM> causes first fastener <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> to become tensioned, ensuring first fastener <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> remain secured to first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM>, respectively.

Further, when first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> are connected, first metallic connector <NUM> slides over and engages second metallic connector <NUM> such that first metallic connector <NUM> encompasses second metallic connector <NUM>. The engagement of first metallic connector <NUM> and second metallic connector <NUM> creates an electric path, allowing electric current to transfer from first electrical connector <NUM> to second electrical connector <NUM>, or vice versa. To ensure first electrical connector <NUM> is properly connected to second electrical connector <NUM>, first key <NUM> is shaped to mate with second key <NUM> and first key <NUM> is inserted into second key <NUM>. More specifically, first cutout <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> is shaped to accept first protrusion <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. Likewise, second cutout <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> is shaped to accept second protrusion <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>.

The geometry of first cutout <NUM> is identical to second cutout <NUM> and the geometry of first protrusion <NUM> is identical to second protrusion <NUM>. As such, first electrical connector <NUM> can be rotated <NUM> degrees about first axis <NUM> and first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> can still mate and connect. In this configuration, first cutout <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> can accept second protrusion <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> can accept first protrusion <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. First key <NUM> and second key <NUM> have mating first cutout <NUM>, second cutout <NUM>, first protrusion <NUM>, and second protrusion <NUM>, ensuring that first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> are correctly connected to each other and the full amount of electrical current can transfer through connectors <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of third electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a front view of third electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a front view of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> disconnected. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> connected. <FIG> will be discussed together.

Referring to <FIG>, third electrical connector <NUM> includes third body <NUM>, third flange <NUM>, third key <NUM>, third threaded insert <NUM>, fourth threaded insert <NUM>, third end face <NUM>, second seal <NUM>, third metallic connector <NUM>, and third aperture <NUM>. Third body <NUM> is the main body portion of third electrical connector <NUM> that the other components of third electrical connector <NUM> are coupled. Third flange <NUM> is positioned adjacent third body <NUM> and third flange <NUM> extends radially outward from third body <NUM>. Third flange <NUM> includes apertures extending through third flange <NUM>, in which third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM> are positioned. Third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM> are configured to accept and mate with fasteners, discussed further below. Third threaded insert <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from fourth threaded insert <NUM> about third axis <NUM>. In some examples, third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM> can be molded into third flange <NUM> during manufacturing of third electrical connector <NUM>. In other examples, third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM> can be coupled to third flange <NUM> after manufacturing of third electrical connector <NUM>.

Third key <NUM> is positioned adjacent third flange <NUM> and third key <NUM> extends axially outward from third flange <NUM> and third body <NUM>, with respect to third axis <NUM> extending through a center of third flange <NUM> and third body <NUM>. Third key <NUM> is generally cylindrical in shape and includes third cutout <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> extending from third end face <NUM> of third key <NUM> to third flange <NUM>. In the example shown, third cutout <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> include a generally triangular shaped cutout extending into the cylindrically shaped third key <NUM>. In another example, third cutout <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> can have any desired shape, as long as third cutout <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> have identical shaped geometry. Third cutout <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from fourth cutout <NUM> about third axis <NUM>. Third end face <NUM> of third key <NUM> is positioned at a distal end of third key <NUM>. Second seal <NUM> is positioned adjacent the location in which third key <NUM> interfaces with third flange <NUM> and second seal <NUM> surrounds a circumference of third key <NUM>. Second seal <NUM> is configured to prevent debris from entering third electrical connector <NUM> when third electrical connector <NUM> is connected to fourth electrical connector <NUM>. In the example shown, second seal <NUM> is an O-ring seal, but in another example, second seal <NUM> can be any component that prevents debris from entering third electrical connector <NUM> when third electrical connector <NUM> is connected to fourth electrical connector <NUM>.

Third end face <NUM> is configured to cover third metallic connector <NUM>, preventing a user from touching third metallic connector <NUM>. Third metallic connector <NUM> is a female connector positioned within third body <NUM> and third key <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM>. Third metallic connector <NUM> is the component that electrically couples third electrical connector <NUM> to fourth electrical connector <NUM>, allowing electric current to transfer between each connector. A user touching third metallic connector <NUM> and fourth metallic connector <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM> at the same time can result in an electrical circuit being completed, which could shock or harm the user. As such, third end face <NUM> is configured to prevent the user from touching third metallic connector <NUM> and harming themselves during connecting or disconnecting of third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Third aperture <NUM> is axially aligned with third axis <NUM> and third aperture <NUM> extends through third end face <NUM>. Third aperture <NUM> allows access to third metallic connector <NUM>, allowing fourth metallic connector <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM> to interface with third metallic connector <NUM>, discussed further below. Third electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with fourth electrical connector <NUM> to complete an electrical circuit, allowing electric current to transfer from third electrical connector <NUM> to fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Further, third electrical connector <NUM> is symmetric about a plane extending through a center axis of third threaded insert <NUM> and a center axis of fourth threaded insert <NUM>, allowing third electrical connector <NUM> to be rotated <NUM> degrees about third axis <NUM> and still mate and couple with fourth electrical connector <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, fourth electrical connector <NUM> includes fourth body <NUM>, fourth flange <NUM>, fourth key <NUM>, third fastener <NUM>, fourth fastener <NUM>, fourth metallic connector <NUM>, and fourth aperture <NUM>. Fourth body <NUM> is the main body portion of fourth electrical connector <NUM> that the other components of fourth electrical connector <NUM> are coupled. Fourth flange <NUM> is positioned adjacent fourth body <NUM> and fourth flange <NUM> extends radially outward from fourth body <NUM>. Fourth flange <NUM> includes apertures extending through fourth flange <NUM>, in which third fastener <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> are positioned. Third fastener <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> are configured to mate with third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM>, respectively. Third fastener <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from fourth fastener <NUM> about fourth axis <NUM>.

Fourth key <NUM> is positioned within fourth flange <NUM> and fourth body <NUM>. More specifically, fourth key <NUM> extends axially inward into fourth flange <NUM> and fourth body <NUM>, with respect to fourth axis <NUM> extending through a center of fourth flange <NUM> and fourth body <NUM>. Fourth key <NUM> is generally cylindrical in shape and includes third protrusion <NUM> and fourth protrusion <NUM> extending inward toward fourth axis <NUM>. In the example shown, third protrusion <NUM> and fourth protrusion <NUM> include a generally triangular shaped protrusion extending inward from the cylindrically shaped fourth key <NUM>. In another example, third protrusion <NUM> and fourth protrusion <NUM> can have any desired shape, as long as third protrusion <NUM> and fourth protrusion <NUM> have identical shaped geometry. Third protrusion <NUM> is positioned <NUM> degrees from fourth protrusion <NUM> about fourth axis <NUM>.

Fourth aperture <NUM> is axially aligned with fourth axis <NUM> and fourth aperture <NUM> extends into fourth body <NUM>. Fourth aperture <NUM> provides a location in which fourth metallic connector <NUM> can be coupled. Fourth metallic connector <NUM> is a male connector positioned within fourth aperture <NUM> of fourth body <NUM> and fourth key <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Fourth metallic connector <NUM> is the component that electrically couples fourth electrical connector <NUM> to third electrical connector <NUM>, allowing electric current to transfer between each connector. More specifically, fourth metallic connector <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM> is inserted into third metallic connector <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> to complete an electric circuit and to transfer electric current between third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Fourth electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with and be coupled to third electrical connector <NUM> during operation of heated hose assembly <NUM>, discussed further below. Further, fourth electrical connector <NUM> is symmetric about a plane extending through a center axis of third fastener <NUM> and a center axis of fourth fastener <NUM>, allowing fourth electrical connector <NUM> to be rotated <NUM> degrees about fourth axis <NUM> and still mate and couple with third electrical connector <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, third electrical connector <NUM> is shown disconnected from fourth electrical connector <NUM> (<FIG>) and third electrical connector <NUM> is shown connected to fourth electrical connector <NUM> (<FIG>). When third electrical connector <NUM> is disconnected from fourth electrical connector <NUM>, the features and/or components of third electrical connector <NUM> are separated from fourth electrical connector <NUM> such that no electrical current is transferring between the connectors. When third electrical connector <NUM> is connected to fourth electrical connector <NUM>, the features and/or components of third electrical connector <NUM> are contacting the features and/or components of fourth electrical connector <NUM> such that electrical current can transfer between the connectors.

More specifically, when third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> are connected, third flange <NUM> is adjacent and abuts fourth flange <NUM>. Third fastener <NUM> is inserted into and secured to third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> is inserted into and secured to fourth threaded insert <NUM>. Securing fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> to threaded inserts <NUM>, <NUM> ensures that third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> will remain secured together during operation of heated hose assembly <NUM>. Second seal <NUM> is positioned and compressed between third flange <NUM> and fourth flange <NUM>, producing a force that pushes third flange <NUM> and fourth flange <NUM> away from each other. The force produced by second seal <NUM> causes third fastener <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> to become tensioned, ensuring third fastener <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> remain secured to third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM>, respectively.

Further, when third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> are connected, third metallic connector <NUM> slides over and engages fourth metallic connector <NUM> such that third metallic connector <NUM> encompasses fourth metallic connector <NUM>. The engagement of third metallic connector <NUM> and fourth metallic connector <NUM> creates an electric path, allowing electric current to transfer from third electrical connector <NUM> to fourth electrical connector <NUM>, or vice versa. To ensure third electrical connector <NUM> is properly connected to fourth electrical connector <NUM>, third key <NUM> is shaped to mate with fourth key <NUM> and third key <NUM> is inserted into fourth key <NUM>. More specifically, third cutout <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> is shaped to accept third protrusion <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Likewise, fourth cutout <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> is shaped to accept fourth protrusion <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>.

The geometry of third cutout <NUM> is identical to fourth cutout <NUM> and the geometry of third protrusion <NUM> is identical to fourth protrusion <NUM>. As such, third electrical connector <NUM> can be rotated <NUM> degrees about third axis <NUM> and third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> can still mate and connect. In this configuration, third cutout <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> can accept fourth protrusion <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> can accept third protrusion <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Third key <NUM> and fourth key <NUM> have mating third cutout <NUM>, fourth cutout <NUM>, third protrusion <NUM>, and fourth protrusion <NUM>, ensuring that third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> are correctly connected to each other and the full amount of electrical current can flow through connectors <NUM>, <NUM>.

As discussed, first key <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with second key <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. More specifically, first cutout <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> are shaped to mate with first protrusion <NUM> and second protrusion <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. Likewise, third key <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> is configured to mate with fourth key <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. More specifically, third cutout <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> are shaped to mate with third protrusion <NUM> and fourth protrusion <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Therefore, first key <NUM>, second key <NUM>, third key <NUM>, and fourth key <NUM> ensure first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> are correctly connected, and ensure third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> are correctly connected. Further, first key <NUM>, second key <NUM>, third key <NUM>, and fourth key <NUM> prevent first electrical connector <NUM> from connecting with fourth electrical connector <NUM>, and prevent third electrical connector <NUM> from connecting with second electrical connector <NUM>.

First electrical connector <NUM> includes first key <NUM> with a geometry that differs from the geometry of third key <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM>. Further, first electrical connector <NUM> includes first key <NUM> with a geometry that cannot mate with the geometry of fourth key <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. More specifically, first cutout <NUM> and second cutout <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> include a geometry that does not conform and mate with third protrusion <NUM> and fourth protrusion <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. As such, first key <NUM> and fourth key <NUM> cannot be connected, preventing first electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> from being electrically coupled. Similarly, third electrical connector <NUM> includes third key <NUM> with a geometry that differs from the geometry of first key <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM>. Further, third electrical connector <NUM> includes third key <NUM> with a geometry that cannot mate with the geometry of second key <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. More specifically, third cutout <NUM> and fourth cutout <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> include a geometry that does not conform and mate with first protrusion <NUM> and second protrusion <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. As such, third key <NUM> and second key <NUM> cannot be connected, preventing third electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> from being electrically coupled.

Electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> including keys <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively, ensure that electrical connector system <NUM> of heated hose assembly <NUM> is connected correctly. In turn, this ensure that electrical current and power is supplied to sufficiently heat first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>. The geometry of keys <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> allows a user to easily and repeatedly connect electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Further, first end face <NUM> and third end face <NUM> prevent a user from touching first metallic connector <NUM> and third electrical connector <NUM>, preventing a user from completing the electrical circuit and electrocuting themselves or others. Additionally, first threaded insert <NUM>, second threaded insert <NUM>, first fastener <NUM>, and second fastener <NUM> ensure connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> remain secured together during operation of heated hose assembly <NUM>, providing electric current to first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>. Electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> can be constructed from one or more of a glass filled nylon, a glass filled plastic, and other composite materials, to meet nationally recognized safety and sustainability standards. Electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> include keys <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively, including different mating geometries, ensuring connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> can only be connected in the correct configuration to provide the requisite electrical current and power to the independently heated first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>.

Heated hose assembly <NUM> utilizes electrical connector system <NUM> to increase the temperature of the first fluid component and the second fluid component flowing through the conduits of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM>, respectively. An example method of operating heated hose assembly <NUM> can include providing first heated hose <NUM> configured to transfer a first fluid component, first heated hose <NUM> comprising first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> each electrically coupled to heating elements of first heated hose <NUM>. Providing second heated hose <NUM> configured to transfer a second fluid component, second heated hose <NUM> comprising third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> each electrically coupled to heating elements of second heated hose <NUM>. Electrically coupling first electrical connector <NUM> to second electrical connector <NUM> such that first key <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM> mates with second key <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. Electrically coupling third electrical connector <NUM> to fourth electrical connector <NUM> such that third key <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM> mates with fourth key <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Supplying a first electric current through first electrical connector <NUM> and second electrical connector <NUM> to increase a temperature of the first fluid component transferring through first heated hose <NUM>. Supplying a second electric current through third electrical connector <NUM> and fourth electrical connector <NUM> to increase a temperature of the second fluid component transferring through second heated hose <NUM>.

The method can further include providing first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM> within first flange <NUM> of first electrical connector <NUM>. Providing first fastener <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> extending through second flange <NUM> of second electrical connector <NUM>. Threading first fastener <NUM> and second fastener <NUM> into first threaded insert <NUM> and second threaded insert <NUM>, respectively, to couple first electrical connector <NUM> to second electrical connector <NUM>. Providing third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM> within third flange <NUM> of third electrical connector <NUM>. Providing third fastener <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> extending through fourth flange <NUM> of fourth electrical connector <NUM>. Threading third fastener <NUM> and fourth fastener <NUM> into third threaded insert <NUM> and fourth threaded insert <NUM>, respectively, to couple third electrical connector <NUM> to fourth electrical connector <NUM>. It is to be understood that the preceding method steps for increasing the temperature of first heated hose <NUM> and second heated hose <NUM> are only example steps and the method can include other steps not specifically described.

Claim 1:
A heated hose assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
an electrical connector system (<NUM>);
a first heated hose (<NUM>) configured to transfer a first fluid component; and
a second heated hose (<NUM>) configured to transfer a second fluid component;
wherein the electrical connector system comprises:
a first electrical connector (<NUM>) comprising a first key;
a second electrical connector (<NUM>) comprising a second key shaped to mate with the first key;
a third electrical connector (<NUM>) comprising a third key; and
a fourth electrical connector (<NUM>) comprising a fourth key shaped to mate with the third key;
wherein the first electrical connector (<NUM>) is electrically coupled to a heating element (14a) of a first segment of the first heated hose (<NUM>);
wherein the second electrical connector (<NUM>) is electrically coupled to a heating element (14a) of a second segment of the first heated hose (<NUM>);
wherein the third electrical connector (<NUM>) is electrically coupled to a heating element (16a) of a first segment of the second heated hose (<NUM>);
wherein the fourth electrical connector (<NUM>) is electrically coupled to a heating element (16a) of a second segment of the second heated hose (<NUM>);
wherein an electric current flowing through the first electrical connector (<NUM>) and the second electrical connector (<NUM>) increases a temperature of the first fluid component transferring through the first heated hose (<NUM>); and
wherein an electric current flowing through the third electrical connector (<NUM>) and the fourth electrical connector (<NUM>) increases a temperature of the second fluid component transferring through the second heated hose (<NUM>);
characterized in that a geometry of the first key differs from a geometry of the third key, and wherein a geometry of the second key differs from a geometry of the fourth key.