Patent Description:
This disclosure relates generally to connector assemblies used to join fluid lines together and, more particularly, to ways of detecting proper and full engagement of connector assembly members.

Connector assemblies, especially those with quick-connect functionality, are commonly used to join fluid lines together in vehicle applications. One example is coolant fluid lines in electric vehicle automobiles. For initial assembly and inspection and subsequent service, visual measures are sometimes employed in the design and construction of a connector assembly in order to verify that a proper and full engagement has been made between members of the connector assembly. Examples include secondary latches that are closable upon full engagement, and windows framed in one the members of the connector assembly for viewing engagement. These measures, as well as others like them, require physical interaction and viewing by the assembler, inspector, or servicer to ensure that a proper and full engagement has been made between the members of the connector assembly.

The above-mentioned <CIT> was <CIT> and discloses a fluid line connector which includes a body, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, one or more actuator members, and one or more switches. The body has a passage for fluid-flow therethrough. The RFID tag can communicate with an RFID interrogator. The actuator member(s) changes the state of the switch(es) when the actuator member(s) actuates. The switch(es) is electrically coupled with the RFID tag.

The present invention is defined by the independent claim <NUM>. Advantageous features are defined in the dependent claims.

In an embodiment, a fluid line connector includes a body, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, an actuator member, and a switch. A passage resides in the body, and an opening resides in the body. The RFID tag is carried by the body. The retainer moves through the body's opening. The actuator member is situated near the body's passage and is situated near the retainer. The switch is electrically coupled with the RFID tag. The switch changes its state when it is impinged by the actuator member. Impingement from the actuator member occurs upon both of: i) insertion of another connector into the fluid line connector, and ii) movement of the retainer in a direction that is generally transverse to a direction of insertion of the other connector into the fluid line connector.

In another embodiment, a fluid line connector includes a body, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, an actuator member, and a switch. A passage resides in the body, and an opening resides in the body. The RFID tag is carried by the body. The retainer moves through the body's opening. The actuator member has a base and an appendage depending from the base. The switch is electrically coupled with the RFID tag The switch changes its state when it is impinged by the actuator member. Impingement from the actuator member occurs upon both of: i) a first force exerted to the appendage from another connector that is inserted into the fluid line connector, and ii) a second force exerted to the base from the retainer.

In yet another embodiment, a fluid line connector includes a body, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, a retainer, an actuator member, and a switch. A passage resides in the body, and an opening resides in the body. The retainer moves through the body's opening. The actuator member has a base and an appendage. The base receives abutment from the retainer, and the appendage receives abutment from another connector. The switch is electrically coupled with the RFID tag. The switch can change its state when impinged by the actuator member.

Embodiments of the disclosure are described with reference to the appended drawings, in which:.

Several embodiments of a fluid line connector and assembly are detailed in this description. The connectors and assemblies are designed and constructed to enable detection of proper and full securement between connectors without the necessity of the secondary latches and windows of the past that required some level of physical interaction and viewing by an assembler, inspector, or servicer at the site of securement. Instead, the connectors and assemblies of this description are provided with means in which proper and full securement can be detected via a device that is located remote of an immediate site of securement of the connectors, and the device need not necessarily make physical contact with the site of securement for detection. In this way, the connectors and assemblies are equipped for initial assembly, subsequent quality inspection, and subsequent service techniques that are automated, robotic, and/or autonomous - those found, for instance, in advanced manufacturing facilities in automotive production. The connectors and assemblies hence could prove useful in many applications, such as when an immediate power supply is not readily available and not readily at-hand. This description presents the connectors and assemblies in the context of automotive fluid lines, such as coolant fluid lines in electric vehicle automobiles, but the connectors and assemblies have broader application and are suitable for use in aircraft fluid lines, marine fluid lines, agricultural fluid lines, as well as other fluid lines.

As used herein, the phrase "full securement" and its grammatical variations is used to refer to a state of securement in which a fluid-tight joint is established via the fluid line connector. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms radially, axially, and circumferentially, and their grammatical variations refer to directions with respect to the generally circular shape of the passage of the fluid line connector.

The fluid line connector and assembly can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments, depending in some cases upon the application in which the fluid line connector and assembly are employed. <FIG> present a first embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly <NUM>. The fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> here includes a fluid line connector <NUM> and another separate and discrete connector <NUM>. The fluid line connector <NUM> has quick-connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the connector <NUM> and is used to join automotive fluid lines together. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector <NUM> is a female connector and the connector <NUM> is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot). The fluid line connector <NUM> receives insertion of the connector <NUM> at a first end <NUM> in installation, and couples to a fluid line at a second end <NUM>. The fluid line connector <NUM> has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but could have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments. The connector <NUM> could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities. With particular reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the connector <NUM> has a first flange <NUM> protruding radially-outboard of its body, and has a second flange <NUM> spaced axially from the first flange <NUM> and likewise protruding radially-outboard of the connector's body. The first and second flanges <NUM>, <NUM> extend circumferentially around the connector <NUM>. The connector <NUM> has an outer surface <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the fluid line connector <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, an o-ring <NUM>, an insert <NUM>, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip <NUM>, a switch <NUM>, and an actuator member <NUM>; still, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector <NUM> can have more, less, and/or different components. Referring now to <FIG>, the body <NUM> has a passage <NUM> defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector <NUM>. The body <NUM> also has a compartment <NUM> for receipt and placement of the RFID chip <NUM>. The compartment <NUM> is a space that is separate from the passage <NUM>. A removable cover <NUM> can be provided to close the compartment <NUM> and enclose the RFID chip <NUM> therein. The body <NUM> further has a pass-through <NUM> for situating and seating the actuator member <NUM> within the body <NUM> in assembly. When the actuator member <NUM> is taken from the body <NUM> (for instance, as shown in <FIG>), the passage <NUM> and compartment <NUM> communicate with each other by way of the pass-through <NUM> which is open to both of the passage <NUM> and compartment <NUM>. The o-ring <NUM> is received within the passage <NUM>, as perhaps depicted best by <FIG>, and forms a seal thereat between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. The insert <NUM> is also received within the passage <NUM> and is used to help retain the connector <NUM> when the connector <NUM> and fluid line connector <NUM> are secured together. In the example of the figures, the insert <NUM> has a pair of tangs <NUM> with hook ends <NUM> that capture the first flange <NUM> upon insertion of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM> to an appropriate overlapping depth, as demonstrated in <FIG>. The insert <NUM> includes a first ring structure <NUM> and a second ring structure <NUM> that are bridged together by the tangs <NUM> Press-downs <NUM> on opposite sides of the second ring structure <NUM> can be squeezed to undo the captured first flange <NUM> for disassembling the connector <NUM> from the fluid line connector <NUM>.

The RFID chip <NUM> assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. The RFID chip <NUM> transmits and receives radio frequency (RF) signals with an RFID interrogator <NUM>. The RFID interrogator <NUM> sends an interrogating signal <NUM> to the RFID chip <NUM>, which responds with an RF signal <NUM>. In this way, proper and full securement detection is carried out with the use of RFID technologies. In a manufacturing facility, for instance, the RFID interrogator <NUM> can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator <NUM> seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID chip <NUM> as the fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> and larger application are transported through the securement zone. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator <NUM> may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In another setting, the RFID interrogator <NUM> can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device. The RF signal <NUM> can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In an embodiment, the information conveyed can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. For example, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> exhibit full securement, the RF signal <NUM> can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. The RFID interrogator <NUM> can in turn process the conveyed information. The information conveyed can also include a serial number, location of installation, etc..

With particular reference to <FIG>, the RFID chip <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM>. Support between the RFID chip <NUM> and the body <NUM> can be effected in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID chip <NUM> resides within the compartment <NUM> and is protected by the cover <NUM> in installation. At this location, the RFID chip <NUM> is shielded from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage <NUM>, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application. The RFID chip <NUM> has an antenna <NUM> that exchanges (i.e., transmits and receives) RF signals, and has an integrated circuit (IC) <NUM> that stores data and information, among other possible functions.

The switch <NUM> interacts with the RFID chip <NUM> in order to activate and enable the RFID chip <NUM> to transmit and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator <NUM>, and in order to deactivate and disable the RFID chip <NUM> from transmitting and receiving RF signals. Still, the interaction can influence the functioning of the RFID chip <NUM> in other ways. In the embodiment presented by the figures, the switch <NUM> is electrically coupled with the RFID chip <NUM> to enable and disable the antenna <NUM> to and from transmitting and receiving RF signals. The switch <NUM> can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments, depending in some cases upon the RFID chip that it interacts with and the design and construction of the accompanying connectors. For instance, the switch <NUM> can take mechanical, electrical, and magnetic forms. In one embodiment, and referring to <FIG>, the switch <NUM> is in the form of a button <NUM> mounted to the RFID chip <NUM>. As demonstrated best by <FIG>, the button <NUM> is located between the RFID chip <NUM> and the actuator member <NUM>, and adjacent the pass-through <NUM>. When impinged and physically pressed, the button <NUM> - due to its electrical coupling to the RFID chip <NUM> - activates and enables the antenna <NUM> to transmit and receive RF signals. A single press and release of the button <NUM> can activate the RFID chip <NUM>, or a maintained impingement and pressing can activate the RFID chip <NUM> for the duration over which the impingement and pressing persists, depending on the embodiment. Conversely, a single press and release of the button <NUM> can deactivate the RFID chip <NUM>, or an absence of a maintained impingement and pressing can deactivate the RFID chip <NUM> for the duration over which the impingement and pressing is lacking.

Furthermore, in other embodiments, the switch <NUM> can be prompted to activate and deactivate the RFID chip <NUM> by other means. With particular reference to <FIG>, another embodiment carries out the prompting by use of a non-contact switch in lieu of a contact-based switch. A reed switch <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM> of the fluid line connector <NUM>, and a magnetic component <NUM> is carried by the connector <NUM>. Here, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> are in full securement, the proximity between the reed switch <NUM> and magnetic component <NUM> prompts activation of the RFID chip <NUM>. Conversely, less than full securement and the attendant remoteness of the reed switch <NUM> and the magnetic component <NUM> relative to each other deactivates the RFID chip <NUM>. In this embodiment, the actuator member <NUM> need not be provided.

The actuator member <NUM> receives abutment amid full securement actions and at full securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>, and thereby prompts impingement of the switch <NUM>. The actuator member <NUM> can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments, depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the switch <NUM> and the accompanying connectors. In the embodiment of the figures, and referring now to <FIG>, the actuator member <NUM> spans between the passage <NUM> and the switch <NUM> to provide an interrelationship between the connector <NUM> and the RFID chip <NUM>. The actuator member <NUM> is carried within the body <NUM> of the fluid line connector <NUM> and is situated and seated in the pass-through <NUM>. At its location, the actuator member <NUM> has one end at the passage <NUM> and another end at the switch <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the actuator member <NUM> is in the form of a cam member <NUM>. The cam member <NUM> is one-piece and has a U-shaped profile with a base portion <NUM> and a pair of prong portions <NUM> depending from the base portion <NUM>. The base portion <NUM> has a first working surface <NUM> residing at the switch <NUM> and maintaining contact with the switch <NUM>. And the prong portions <NUM> each have a second working surface <NUM> that reside in the passage <NUM> for abutment with the connector <NUM> upon its insertion into the fluid line connector <NUM>. The second working surfaces <NUM> can be slanted relative to an axis of the connector <NUM> in order to ease abutment with the connector <NUM> and to induce the concomitant displacement of the cam member <NUM>.

When the fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> is employed in use, proper and full securement can be detected via RFID technologies. The fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM> are brought together as the connector <NUM> is inserted into the body <NUM> at the first end <NUM>. The first flange <NUM> comes into abutment with the cam member <NUM> and displaces the cam member <NUM> upward (relative to the orientation of the figures) and toward the button <NUM>. The first flange <NUM> makes surface-to-surface abutment with the second working surfaces <NUM> of the cam member <NUM>. The cam member <NUM> is urged upward and impinges the button <NUM> via surface-to-surface contact between the first working surface <NUM> and a confronting surface of the button <NUM>. In this embodiment, the first flange <NUM> maintains abutment with the cam member <NUM> and the cam member <NUM> hence maintains impingement with the button <NUM> at full securement.

In another embodiment, the fluid line connector <NUM> includes more than a single RFID chip. With particular reference to <FIG>, a second RFID chip <NUM> is provided in addition to the first RFID chip <NUM>. And like the first RFID chip <NUM>, the second RFID chip <NUM> assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. In this embodiment, both of the first and second RFID chips <NUM>, <NUM> transmit and receive RF signals with the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In an example, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> exhibit full securement, the first RFID chip <NUM> can convey the fully secured information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. Conversely, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> are not fully secured together, the second RFID chip <NUM> can convey this less-than fully secured information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. Further, at full securement, the second RFID chip <NUM> does not convey the less-than fully secured information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>; and, when not fully secured together, the first RFID chip <NUM> does not convey the fully secured information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. As in the previous embodiment, the first and second RFID chips, <NUM>, <NUM> can convey additional information such as a serial number, location of installation, etc. Whether the first RFID chip <NUM> conveys its fully secured information or the second RFID chip <NUM> conveys its less-than fully secured information is managed in part by the switch <NUM>. In this embodiment, the switch <NUM> interacts with both of the first and second RFID chips <NUM>, <NUM> and is electrically coupled to both of the first and second RFID chips <NUM>, <NUM>. The interaction and conveyance of information can be effected in different ways. For example, when impinged, the switch <NUM> can activate and enable the first RFID chip <NUM> to convey the fully secured information and, when not impinged, the switch <NUM> can activate and enable the second RFID chip <NUM> to convey the less-than fully secured information. The impingement and absence of impingement of the switch <NUM> can deactivate and disable the first RFID chip <NUM> or the second RFID chip <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG>, yet another embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> is presented. This embodiment has some similarities with the embodiment of <FIG> and the similarities might not be repeated in the description of the embodiment of <FIG>. The fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> includes a fluid line connector <NUM> and another separate and discrete connector <NUM>. The fluid line connector <NUM> has quick-connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the connector <NUM> and is used to join automotive fluid lines together, as well as other fluid lines in other applications. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector <NUM> is a female connector and the connector <NUM> is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot). The fluid line connector <NUM> receives insertion of the connector <NUM>, as demonstrated best by <FIG>. The fluid line connector <NUM> has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but could have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments. The connector <NUM> could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the connector <NUM> has an extension <NUM> and a slot <NUM> located at an end of the connector <NUM> that is inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM>. The extension <NUM> can be received in a complementary cavity of the fluid line connector <NUM> for relative rotational alignment purposes between the connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, and need not be provided in some embodiments. The extension <NUM>, in some embodiments, could make abutment with a first actuator member (set forth below) of the fluid line connector <NUM> and hence could prompt actuation thereof. When provided, the extension <NUM> spans axially over the inserted end of the connector <NUM>, and protrudes radially-outboard of the connector's surrounding body. The slot <NUM> receives insertion of a retainer of the fluid line connector <NUM>, as set forth below. The slot <NUM> spans circumferentially around the connector <NUM>. Furthermore, the connector <NUM> has a ramp <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> presents an increasing diameter in the connector <NUM>. An exterior surface <NUM> is situated from the slot <NUM> and ramp <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> with the ramp <NUM> received in the fluid line connector <NUM> before the extension <NUM> and before the slot <NUM> are received in the fluid line connector <NUM> (i.e., from right to left in the orientation of <FIG>).

In the embodiment presented by <FIG>, the fluid line connector <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, a retainer <NUM>, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag <NUM>, one or two switches <NUM>, <NUM>, and one or two actuator members <NUM>, <NUM>; still, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector <NUM> can have more, less, and/or different components. Turning now to <FIG> and <FIG>, the body <NUM> has a passage <NUM> defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector <NUM>. Further, the body <NUM> has a compartment for receipt and placement of the RFID tag <NUM>. A cover <NUM> is provided to close the compartment and enclose the RFID tag <NUM> therein (the compartment and cover are only depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, but the depiction of <FIG> and <FIG> could have a similar construction for housing the RFID tag <NUM>). The cover <NUM> could be removable, though need not. Moreover, though only partially shown in <FIG>, an insert assembly <NUM> can be provided and carried at the interior of the fluid line connector <NUM> and within the passage <NUM>. Depending on its design and construction, the insert assembly <NUM> can facilitate fit, reception, and/or sealing between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. The insert assembly <NUM>, for instance, could include an o-ring <NUM> and a carrier <NUM>, and could also include a bushing, depending on the embodiment.

The body <NUM> has a construction that, in cooperation with the retainer <NUM>, furnishes the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector <NUM>. With reference again to <FIG> and <FIG>, a first opening <NUM> and a second opening <NUM> are defined on opposite sides of the body's wall and span wholly therethrough and lead to the passage <NUM>. At the wall's exterior, a first recess <NUM> and a second recess <NUM> reside for temporarily deploying the retainer <NUM> as the retainer <NUM> is pulled radially-outboard for release of the connector <NUM> from the fluid line connector <NUM>. Flanges <NUM> project radially-outboard of the body's wall and partially enclose sections of the retainer <NUM> to prevent inadvertent dislodging of the retainer <NUM> when it is received in the slot <NUM>.

Furthermore, the body <NUM> has a structure intended to accommodate assembly and installation of the actuator member(s) <NUM>, <NUM>. The precise design and construction of that structure can vary, and can depend on the design and construction of the actuator member(s) and switch(es) utilized in the fluid line connector <NUM>. In the embodiment presented by the figures, and turning now to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, a first socket <NUM> and a second socket <NUM> reside in the body <NUM>. The first socket <NUM> receives and holds the first actuator member <NUM> and is in the form of a slotted construction in this embodiment. The first socket <NUM> is located at an entrance <NUM> of the passage <NUM> for situating the first actuator member <NUM> thereat, and is defined in the body's wall near the entrance <NUM>. To fully receive the first actuator member <NUM>, an axial depth of the first socket <NUM> can be approximately equivalent to the length of the first actuator member <NUM>. And, in a similar way, a radial width of the first socket <NUM> can be approximately equivalent to the width of the first actuator member <NUM>. The axial depth of the first socket <NUM> is in general alignment with an axis of the passage <NUM> at the entrance <NUM>. The figures depict an enlarged structure in the body's wall to accommodate the first actuator member <NUM> and for furnishing the first socket <NUM>, but in other embodiments the accommodation can be more coherent and integrated into the body <NUM> such that the enlargement can be minimized.

Referring now particularly to <FIG>, the second socket <NUM> receives and holds the second actuator member <NUM> and is in the form of a slotted construction in this embodiment. The second socket <NUM> is located external of the passage <NUM> and at a side of the body's wall for situating the second actuator member <NUM> thereat. To fully receive the second actuator member <NUM>, a radial depth of the second socket <NUM> can be approximately equivalent to the length of the second actuator member <NUM>. And, in a similar way, an axial width of the second socket <NUM> can be approximately equivalent to the width of the second actuator member <NUM>. The radial depth of the second socket <NUM> is in general alignment with a radius of the passage <NUM> at the entrance <NUM>. The figures depict an enlarged structure projecting from the side of the body's wall to accommodate the second actuator member <NUM> and for furnishing the second socket <NUM>, but in other embodiments the accommodation can be more coherent and integrated into the body <NUM> such that the enlarged structure can be minimized. In <FIG>, a base wall <NUM> and a pair of side walls <NUM> depending from the base wall <NUM> together partially enclose the second actuator member <NUM> and help protect against inadvertent contact from foreign components when the fluid line connector <NUM> is put to use.

The retainer <NUM> interacts with the body <NUM> to furnish the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector <NUM> so that the connector <NUM> can be readily inserted into and held in the fluid line connector <NUM> and can be released and removed therefrom as needed or as desired. The retainer <NUM> can vary in design and construction. With particular reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in this embodiment the retainer <NUM> is a one-piece stainless steel wire spring that is inwardly biased. The retainer <NUM> has a first leg <NUM>, a second leg <NUM>, and bridge <NUM> spanning between the legs. The first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> can be substantially similar in shape and size. A first position of use of the retainer <NUM> is presented in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. In the first position of use, the retainer <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM> with the first and second legs <NUM>,<NUM> moved through the first and second openings <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> reside partially within the passage <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is not inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> in the first position of use. A second position of use of the retainer <NUM> lacks specific depiction in the figures. In the second position of use, the connector <NUM> is inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> and the ramp <NUM> engages the first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM>. The engagement urges the first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> to spread apart away from each other (i.e., radially-outboard) and can move the bridge <NUM> radially-outboard. As insertion of the connector <NUM> continues, the retainer <NUM> is brought to a third position of use in which the retainer <NUM> is received in the slot <NUM>. The first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> ride over the ramp <NUM> and can snap back into their location of the first position of use, but are now received in the slot <NUM>. The first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> are moved respectively through the first and second openings <NUM>. Receipt of one or both of the first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> into the slot <NUM> secures the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM> together. Movement of the retainer <NUM> between its first and second and third positions of use moves the retainer <NUM> in a direction that is generally transverse and orthogonal to a direction of insertion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM> - in other words, the retainer's movement is radially-outboard and radially-inboard, or up and down. When a servicer pulls the retainer <NUM> up for release and removal of the connector <NUM> from the fluid line connector <NUM>, a terminal foot <NUM> (<FIG>) of the first leg <NUM> can be seated in the first recess <NUM> and, likewise, a terminal foot (not specifically depicted) of the second leg <NUM> can be seated in the second recess <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, the RFID tag <NUM> assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. The RFID tag <NUM> communicates with an RFID interrogator or reader <NUM> (<FIG>). The RFID interrogator <NUM> sends an interrogating signal <NUM> to the RFID tag <NUM>, which communicates in turn with the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In this way, proper and full securement detection is carried out with the use of RFID technologies. In a manufacturing facility, for instance, the RFID interrogator <NUM> can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator <NUM> seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID tag <NUM> as the fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> and larger application are transported through the securement zone. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator <NUM> may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In another setting, the RFID interrogator <NUM> can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device.

The RFID tag <NUM> is of the passive RFID tag type in this embodiment, but could be of another type such as an active RFID tag. The communications received from the RFID tag <NUM> can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In an embodiment, the information conveyed can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. For example, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> exhibit full securement, the RFID tag <NUM> can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. And conversely, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> lack full securement, the RFID tag <NUM> can convey the not-fully-secured information in the form of an OFF signal to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. The RFID interrogator <NUM> can in turn process the conveyed information. The information conveyed can also include a part serial number, location of installation, etc. In an embodiment in which the fluid line connector <NUM> is equipped with both of the switches <NUM>, <NUM> and both of the actuator members <NUM>, <NUM>, the RFID tag <NUM> can convey the state of each of the actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> based upon impingement or non-impingement of the switches <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the RFID tag <NUM> can convey one or more of the following: i) both of the actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> lack actuation and hence both of the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> are in an open state, ii) the first actuator member <NUM> lacks actuation and hence the first switch <NUM> is in an open state and the second actuator member <NUM> is actuated and hence the second switch <NUM> is in a closed state, iii) the first actuator member <NUM> is actuated and hence the first switch <NUM> is in a closed state and the second actuator member <NUM> lacks actuation and hence the second switch <NUM> is in an open state, and/or iv) both of the first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> are actuated and hence both of the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> are in a closed state.

The RFID tag <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM>. Support between the RFID tag <NUM> and the body <NUM> can be effected in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag <NUM> resides within the body's compartment and is protected by the cover <NUM> in installation. At this location, the RFID tag <NUM> is shielded from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage <NUM>, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application. As shown in <FIG>, the RFID tag <NUM> has an antenna <NUM> and has an integrated circuit (IC) <NUM> that stores data and information, among other possible functions. The antenna <NUM> and IC <NUM> can be carried on a substrate of the RFID tag <NUM>. When both are provided, in an embodiment the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> can be electrically coupled with the RFID tag <NUM> in a series arrangement. The series arrangement serves to establish a continuity loop with beneficial circuitry and detection capabilities in some embodiments. For instance, when the continuity loop is disestablished at one or both of the switches <NUM>, <NUM>, detection of the consequent discontinuity can be readily carried out. In other embodiments, the electrical coupling among the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> and the RFID tag <NUM> could have siring arrangements at the IC <NUM> other than the series arrangement in order to, for example, effect the capability to convey the state of each of the switches <NUM>, <NUM> independent of each other, as presented above. Furthermore, as previously described with reference to <FIG>, in the embodiment of <FIG> the fluid line connector <NUM> can include more than a single RFID tag.

In alternatives to the embodiment of <FIG>, the fluid line connector <NUM> can be equipped with: i) only the first switch <NUM> and first actuator member <NUM>, ii) only the second switch <NUM> and second actuator member <NUM>, or iii) both of the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> and both of the first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM>. The third [iii)] alternative is depicted in the figures, but skilled artisans can readily envision the first [i)] and second [ii)] alternatives by removal of the other from the fluid line connector <NUM> in the figures,.

Turning now to <FIG>, the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> are electrically coupled with the RFID tag <NUM> in order to convey their state to the RFID tag <NUM> based on impingement or non-impingement of the switches <NUM>, <NUM> by the first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM>. The electrical coupling can be in the form of wires <NUM> spanning from the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> and to the RFID tag <NUM>. The wiring can establish a series arrangement. In the example of the wires <NUM>, the wires <NUM> could be routed through one or more grooves residing in the body <NUM> or could be embedded within the body's walls, among other possibilities. The first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> can take various forms in various embodiments depending in some cases upon the RFID tag that it interacts with and the design and construction of the accompanying actuator members. With respect to each other and in the embodiment in which both of the switches <NUM>, <NUM> are present, the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> can take different forms. In <FIG>, the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> are in the form of a button <NUM>. When impinged and physically pressed by the particular actuator member, the button <NUM> is in a closed state. And when not impinged and not physically pressed by the particular actuator member, the button <NUM> is in an open state.

The first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> receive abutment amid full securement actions and at full securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>, and are thereby actuated and in turn respectively impinge the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> to close the switches. The first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the particular switch and connector. With respect to each other and in the embodiment in which both of the actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> are present, the first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> can take different forms.

In the embodiment of the figures and turning now to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the first actuator member <NUM> is intended to facilitate detection of axial insertion of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>. The first actuator member <NUM> is situated near the entrance <NUM> of the passage <NUM>. In general, the first actuator member <NUM> resembles a V-shape turned on its side. A longitudinal extent <NUM> of the first actuator member <NUM>, in assembly, is arranged generally in-line with the direction of insertion <NUM> of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>. The longitudinal extent <NUM> is in general alignment with the axis of the passage <NUM> at the entrance <NUM>. The first actuator member <NUM> has a base <NUM> and an appendage <NUM> depending from the base <NUM>. The base <NUM> carries the first switch <NUM> and is inserted and received in the first socket <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The appendage <NUM> can move relative to the base <NUM> over an arced path <NUM> when the first actuator member <NUM> receives abutment from the connector <NUM>. The appendage <NUM>, as demonstrated perhaps best by <FIG>, is suspended partly within the passage <NUM> prior to insertion of the connector <NUM> so that the connector's ramp <NUM> can make abutment with the appendage <NUM> upon such insertion. The appendage <NUM> remains in this extended and suspended position when it is at rest and when it lacks abutment from the ramp <NUM> - this constitutes an unactuated state of the first actuator member <NUM> and a correspondingly open state of the first switch <NUM>. When abutted, the appendage <NUM> then moves toward the base <NUM> and impinges the first switch <NUM> - this constitutes an actuated state of the first actuator member <NUM> and a correspondingly closed state of the first switch <NUM>.

At one side, the appendage <NUM> has an outer working surface <NUM> that maintains general confrontation with the passage <NUM> and with the connector <NUM>. At its opposite side, the appendage <NUM> has an inner working surface <NUM> that maintains general confrontation with the first switch <NUM>. A projection <NUM> can extend from the inner working surface <NUM> for direct impingement with the first switch <NUM>. The appendage <NUM> has a proximal end <NUM> about which the appendage <NUM> bends relative to the base <NUM>, and has a distal end <NUM>. The proximal end <NUM> serves as a hinge, and the distal end <NUM> constitutes a free terminal end of the appendage <NUM>. For the first actuator member <NUM>, an axis <NUM> of the hinge lies in a generally orthogonal arrangement with the direction of insertion <NUM> of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, and likewise is generally orthogonal to the axis of the passage <NUM> at the entrance <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the second actuator member <NUM> has a similar design and construction as the first actuator member <NUM>. Turning now to <FIG>, the second actuator member <NUM> is intended to facilitate detection of proper positioning of the retainer <NUM> and accompanying receipt of the legs <NUM>, <NUM> in the slot <NUM>. The second actuator member <NUM> is situated at a location that is external of the passage <NUM> and at a side of the body's wall; still, in other embodiments lacking depiction the second actuator member could be located internal of the body <NUM> and need not be external. Because of its location, and unlike the first actuator member <NUM>, the longitudinal extent <NUM> of the second actuator member <NUM> is arranged generally transverse to the direction of insertion <NUM> of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>. The longitudinal extent <NUM> is generally orthogonal to the axis of the passage <NUM> at the entrance <NUM>. The base <NUM> of the second actuator member <NUM> carries the second switch <NUM> and is inserted and received in the second socket <NUM> of the body <NUM>. The appendage <NUM> is positioned at the body's exterior with its distal end <NUM> lying in intersection with a path over which the terminal foot <NUM> descends and resides when the retainer <NUM> is in its first and third positions of use. In this way, the terminal foot <NUM> can make abutment with the appendage <NUM> when the legs <NUM>, <NUM> are moved in the slot <NUM> and can hence cause actuation of the second actuator member <NUM>. Actuation of the second actuator member <NUM> via abutment from the terminal foot <NUM> is demonstrated in <FIG>. The appendage <NUM> remains in its extended position when it is at rest and when it lacks abutment from the terminal foot <NUM> - this constitutes an unactuated state of the second actuator member <NUM> and a correspondingly open state of the second switch <NUM>. The appendage <NUM> lacks abutment from the terminal foot <NUM> when the retainer <NUM> is in its second position of use. When abutted by the terminal foot <NUM>, the appendage <NUM> then moves toward the base <NUM> and impinges the second switch <NUM> - this constitutes an actuated state of the second actuator member <NUM> and a correspondingly closed state of the second switch <NUM>. For the second actuator member <NUM>, the axis <NUM> of the hinge is arranged generally in-line with the direction of insertion <NUM> of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, and likewise is in general alignment with the axis of the passage <NUM> at the entrance <NUM>.

The embodiment of the fluid line connector <NUM> that employs the use of both of the switches <NUM>, <NUM> and both of the actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> provides an enhanced resolution of full securement and precludes a false-negative detection reading. Turning now to <FIG>, a first bar schematic <NUM> is representative of the state of the first switch <NUM> at certain axial insertion depths of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, and a second bar schematic <NUM> is representative of the state of the second switch <NUM> at the same axial insertion depths of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>. The first and second bar schematics <NUM>, <NUM> are examples and could differ in other embodiments. In <FIG>, the first and second bar schematics <NUM>, <NUM> are placed next to the connector <NUM> and parallel with the axis of the connector <NUM> to serve as a representation of the corresponding axial section of the connector <NUM> as it is inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> and the two axially overlap. Although not necessary in all embodiments, the first and second bar schematics <NUM>, <NUM> are based on the assumption that the retainer <NUM> is initially in its first position of use. In this embodiment, along a first axial depth of insertion <NUM> (or initial axial depth of insertion) of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, the first switch <NUM> should be in its open state. Along a first axial depth of insertion <NUM> of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, the second switch <NUM> may be in its closed state. Further, along a second axial depth of insertion <NUM> (or intermediate axial depth of insertion), the state of the first switch <NUM> can be uncertain, of the first switch <NUM> may be in its closed state. At the second axial depth of insertion <NUM>, as illustrated, the retainer <NUM> has now come into engagement with the ramp <NUM> and the appendage <NUM> of the first actuator member <NUM> is abutted by the ramp <NUM> or by the extension <NUM>. Along a second axial depth of insertion <NUM>, the state of the second switch <NUM> can be uncertain, or can be closed. Along a third axial depth of insertion <NUM>, the second switch <NUM> should be in its open state. Again here, the ramp <NUM> is engaging the retainer <NUM> in the second axial depth of insertion <NUM>. Lastly, along a third axial depth of insertion <NUM> (or final axial depth of insertion), the first switch <NUM> should be in its closed state. And along a fourth axial depth of insertion <NUM>, the second switch <NUM> should also be in its closed state. At the third and fourth axial depth of insertions <NUM>, <NUM>, the first and second legs <NUM>, <NUM> are received in the slot <NUM> and the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM> are fully secured together. Also, the first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> are actuated and impinge the first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> at the third and fourth axial depth of insertions <NUM>, <NUM>. Over insertion movement of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, in this embodiment the first switch <NUM> goes from its open state, to an uncertain state, and to its closed state; and the second switch <NUM> goes from its closed state, to an uncertain state, to its open state, and then back to its closed state. The second switch <NUM>, in a sense, acts like a momentary switch and is only in its closed state when impinged by the second actuator member <NUM>. Moreover, because at the time when the first switch <NUM> initially enters its closed state (or at least may be in its closed state) at the second axial depth of insertion <NUM> the second switch <NUM> is concurrently in its open state at the third axial depth of insertion <NUM>, a false-negative detection reading is precluded. Put another way, at least one of the first or second switches <NUM>, <NUM> remains in its open state until the third and fourth axial depth of insertions <NUM>, <NUM>.

Still, additional alternatives are possible for the embodiment of <FIG>. In one alternative, impingement from the first and second actuator members <NUM>, <NUM> changes the state of the respective first and second switches <NUM>, <NUM> - for example, brings the switches from an initially open state to a subsequently closed state via impingement, or conversely brings the switches from an initially closed state to a subsequently open state via impingement. In another alternative, the first switch <NUM> can itself receive abutment from the connector <NUM>, with the first actuator member <NUM> being indirectly acted on and indirectly moved by the abutment via the first switch <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, another embodiment of a fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> is presented. This embodiment is according to the claims. This embodiment has some similarities with the embodiment of <FIG> and with the embodiment of <FIG>, and the similarities might not be repeated in the description of the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>. The fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> includes a fluid line connector <NUM> and another separate and discrete connector <NUM>. The fluid line connector <NUM> has quick-connect functionality for ready connect and disconnect actions with the connector <NUM> and is used to join automotive fluid lines together, as well as other fluid lines in other applications. In this embodiment, the fluid line connector <NUM> is a female connector and the connector <NUM> is a male connector (often referred to as a spigot). The fluid line connector <NUM> receives insertion of the connector <NUM>, as demonstrated by <FIG> and <FIG>. The fluid line connector <NUM> has an elbow and L-shaped configuration in the figures, but could have a straight and in-line configuration in other embodiments. The connector <NUM> could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a larger component such as a vehicle battery tray or heat exchanger, or could be an integral and somewhat monolithic part of a fluid line, among many possibilities.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the connector <NUM> in this embodiment has a ramp <NUM> and a slot <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> resides a distance from a terminal end <NUM> but closer to the terminal end <NUM> than the slot <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> establishes an increasing diameter at an outer portion of the connector <NUM>. The slot <NUM> receives insertion of a retainer of the fluid line connector <NUM>, as set forth below. The slot <NUM> spans circumferentially around the connector <NUM>.

The fluid line connector <NUM> can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments. In the embodiment presented by <FIG> and <FIG>, the fluid line connector <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, a cover <NUM>, a retainer <NUM>, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag <NUM>, a switch <NUM>, and an actuator member <NUM>; still, in other embodiments, the fluid line connector <NUM> can have more, less, and/or different components. Turning particularly to <FIG>, the body <NUM> has a passage <NUM> defined in its structure for allowing fluid-flow through the fluid line connector <NUM>. An insert assembly can be furnished at an interior of the fluid line connector <NUM> and within the passage <NUM>. Depending on its design and construction, the insert assembly can facilitate fit, reception, and/or sealing between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. In the embodiment here, the insert assembly includes an o-ring <NUM>. Furthermore, the body <NUM> has a construction that, in cooperation with the retainer <NUM>, furnishes the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, a first opening <NUM> and a second opening (not visible) are defined on opposite sides of the body's wall and span wholly therethrough and lead to the passage <NUM>. At the wall's exterior, a first recess <NUM> and second recess (again not visible) reside for temporary deployment of the retainer <NUM>. Flanges <NUM> project radially-outboard of the body's wall and partially blockade sections of the retainer <NUM> to prevent inadvertent dislodging of the retainer <NUM> when it is received in the slot <NUM>. To accommodate utilization of the actuator member <NUM>, a pass-through <NUM> is defined in the body's wall and spans completely therethrough and leads to the passage <NUM>. The actuator member <NUM> is accessible at the passage <NUM> by way of the pass-through <NUM>. The actuator member <NUM> resides in and travels through the pass-through <NUM>. As demonstrated by <FIG>, the pass-through <NUM> is located near an end of the body <NUM> that receives insertion of the connector <NUM> so that the actuator member <NUM> can interact with the connector <NUM>, as set forth below.

The cover <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM> and partly or more encloses the RFID tag <NUM> to protect the RFID tag <NUM> against exposure to foreign objects and things during use of the fluid line connector <NUM>. The cover <NUM> can have various designs and constructions. In this embodiment, when in place, the cover <NUM> is situated at an outer boundary of the body <NUM> and wholly encloses the RFID tag <NUM>. For attachment with the body <NUM>, the cover <NUM> has a pair of extensions <NUM> (only one visible in <FIG>) disposed on each side of its structure that snap over interconnecting constructions on the body <NUM> and thereby establish an attachment therewith. Furthermore, and as described below as well, the actuator member <NUM> is a monolithic construction of the cover <NUM> in the embodiment presented here. The actuator member <NUM> extends unitarily from a front end <NUM> of the cover <NUM>. Here, the actuator member <NUM> extends at an outer periphery <NUM> of the cover <NUM>. This construction facilitates assembly and installation of the actuator member <NUM> as it is carried by the cover <NUM> and received in the pass-through <NUM> upon attachment of the cover <NUM> with the body <NUM>. Still, in other embodiments the cover <NUM> and actuator member <NUM> need not exhibit the monolithic construction set forth herein.

The retainer <NUM> interacts with the body <NUM> to furnish the quick-connect functionality of the fluid line connector <NUM> so that the connector <NUM> can be readily inserted into and held in the fluid line connector <NUM> and can be released and removed therefrom as needed or as desired. The retainer <NUM> can vary in design and construction. With particular reference to <FIG>, in this embodiment the retainer <NUM> is a one-piece stainless steel wire spring that is inwardly biased. The retainer <NUM> has a first leg <NUM>, a second leg (not visible), and a bridge <NUM> spanning between the legs. The first and second legs <NUM> can be substantially similar in shape and size. In a first position of use, the retainer <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM> with the first and second legs <NUM> moved through the first and second openings <NUM>. The first and second legs <NUM> reside partially within the passage <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is not inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> in the first position of use. In a second position of use, the connector <NUM> is in the midst of being inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> and the ramp <NUM> engages the first and second legs <NUM>. The engagement urges the first and second legs <NUM> to spread apart away from each other (i.e., radially-outboard) and can move the bridge <NUM> radially-outboard. As insertion of the connector <NUM> continues, the retainer <NUM> is brought to a third position of use, or position of securement, in which the retainer <NUM> is received in the slot <NUM>. The third position of use is depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>. The first and second legs <NUM> ride over the ramp <NUM> and can snap back into their location of the first position of use, but are now received in the slot <NUM>. The first and second legs <NUM> are moved respectively through the first and second openings <NUM>. Receipt of the first and second legs <NUM> into the slot <NUM> secures the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM> together. Movement of the retainer <NUM> between its first and second and third positions of use moves the retainer <NUM> in a direction that is generally transverse and orthogonal to a direction of insertion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM> - in other words, the retainer's movement is generally radially-outboard and radially-inboard, or up and down. When a servicer pulls the retainer <NUM> up for release and removal of the connector <NUM> from the fluid line connector <NUM>, a terminal foot <NUM> (<FIG>) of the first leg <NUM> can be seated in the first recess <NUM> and, likewise, a terminal foot (not specifically depicted) of the second leg <NUM> can be seated in the second recess <NUM>.

The RFID tag <NUM> assists in the detection of proper and full securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. The RFID tag <NUM> communicates with an RFID interrogator or reader <NUM> (<FIG>). The RFID interrogator <NUM> sends an interrogating signal <NUM> to the RFID tag <NUM>, which in turn communicates with the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In this way, proper and full securement detection is carried out with the use of RFID technologies. In a manufacturing facility, for instance, the RFID interrogator <NUM> can be stationed amid an assembly, inspection, and/or installation production line, and can establish an interrogation zone in which the RFID interrogator <NUM> seeks to intercommunicate with the RFID tag <NUM> as the fluid line connector and assembly <NUM> and larger application are transported through the securement zone. Depending on the manufacturing facility, the RFID interrogator <NUM> may establish an interrogation zone that spans several meters from the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In another setting or just another example, the RFID interrogator <NUM> can be a mobile device such as a hand-held device.

The RFID tag <NUM> is of the passive RFID tag type in this embodiment, but could be of another type such as an active RFID tag. The communications received from the RFID tag <NUM> can convey various data and information to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. In an embodiment, the information conveyed can be an indication of the state of securement between the fluid line connector <NUM> and the connector <NUM>. For example, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> exhibit full securement, the RFID tag <NUM> can convey the fully secured information in the form of an ON signal to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. And conversely, when the fluid line connector <NUM> and connector <NUM> lack full securement, the RFID tag <NUM> can convey the not-fully-secured information in the form of an OFF signal to the RFID interrogator <NUM>. The RFID interrogator <NUM> can in turn process the conveyed information. The information conveyed can also include a part serial number, location of installation, date of installation, etc..

The RFID tag <NUM> is carried by the body <NUM>. Support between the RFID tag <NUM> and the body <NUM> can be effected in various ways. In this embodiment, the RFID tag <NUM> sits at the body's outer boundary and is protected by the cover <NUM> in installation. At this location, the RFID tag <NUM> is away from exposure to fluid-flow traveling through the passage <NUM>, and is shielded from external sources of contamination, depending on the particular application. The RFID tag <NUM> can have a similar design as that presented by <FIG>, and hence can have an antenna and an integrated circuit (IC) that stores data and information, among other possible functionalities. The antenna and IC can reside on a substrate of the RFID tag <NUM>. Of course, the RFID tag <NUM> could have other designs that differ from that of <FIG>.

Turning now to <FIG>, the switch <NUM> is electrically coupled with the RFID tag <NUM> in order to convey its state to the RFID tag <NUM> based on impingement or non-impingement of the switch <NUM> by the actuator member <NUM>. The electrical coupling can be in the form of wiring. In this embodiment, the switch <NUM> is mounted directly to the RFID tag <NUM> and carried thereby. The switch <NUM> is carried at a location of the RFID tag <NUM> so that, in assembly, the switch <NUM> is physically sandwiched by the actuator member <NUM> as demonstrated by <FIG>. In the orientation of <FIG>, the switch <NUM> resides on an underside of the RFID tag <NUM>. The switch <NUM> can take various forms in various embodiments depending in some cases upon the RFID tag that it interacts with and the design and construction of the accompanying actuator member. In <FIG>, the switch <NUM> is in the form of a button <NUM>. When impinged and physically pressed by the actuator member <NUM>, the button <NUM> is in a closed state. And when not impinged and not physically pressed by the actuator member <NUM>, the button <NUM> is in an open state.

The actuator member <NUM> serves to impinge the switch <NUM> and change its state (e.g., open state to closed state, or vice versa) upon actuation. In this embodiment, the actuator member <NUM> actuates and impinges the switch <NUM> only when two actions occur: a) insertion of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, and b) movement of the retainer <NUM> to its position of securement. If one of these two actions is lacking and absent, the actuator member <NUM> remains unactuated and the switch is not impinged. The actuator member <NUM> can have various designs, constructions, and components in different embodiments depending in some cases upon the design and construction of the particular switch and connector. In the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, and as previously described, the actuator member <NUM> is a unitary extension of the cover <NUM>. The actuator member <NUM> is received in the pass-through <NUM> in assembly and installation, as illustrated in <FIG>. At this location, the actuator member <NUM> is partly suspended within the passage <NUM> to accept abutment from the connector <NUM> when the connector <NUM> is in the midst of being inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM>, and is partly exposed external of the body <NUM> to accept abutment from the retainer <NUM>. The actuator member <NUM> is situated near an entrance <NUM> of the passage <NUM>. A longitudinal extent <NUM> of the actuator member <NUM> is arranged generally in-line with the direction of insertion <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the actuator member <NUM> has a base <NUM> and an appendage <NUM> depending from the base <NUM>. In general, the base <NUM> is located exterior of the passage <NUM> and confronts the retainer <NUM>, while the appendage <NUM> is located at the passage <NUM> and suspended partly therein and confronts the connector <NUM>. Relative to the switch <NUM>, the base <NUM> is situated on a radially-outboard side thereof, and the appendage <NUM> is situated on an opposite radially-inboard side thereof. In this way, the switch <NUM> is sandwiched by the actuator member <NUM> and the actuator member <NUM> can press the switch <NUM> at each side. The base <NUM> spans directly and immediately from the cover <NUM>, and the appendage <NUM> spans directly and immediately from the base <NUM>.

A first extension <NUM> joins the cover <NUM> and base <NUM>, and a second extension <NUM> joins the base <NUM> and appendage <NUM>. The second extension <NUM> has a bend in it and wraps the actuator member <NUM> over and around an edge of the RFID tag <NUM> and locates the appendage <NUM> beneath the base <NUM> with respect to the orientation of <FIG>. Opposite the second extension <NUM>, the appendage <NUM> has a terminal and free end <NUM> (<FIG>). The base <NUM> has a first working surface <NUM> in direct confrontation with the retainer <NUM> for abutment therewith, and the appendage <NUM> has a second working surface <NUM> in confrontation with the connector <NUM> for abutment therewith. The first working surface <NUM> is generally directed radially-outward, and the second working surface <NUM> is generally directed radially-inward. The first working surface <NUM> receives abutment from the retainer <NUM>, and the second working surface <NUM> receives abutment from the connector <NUM>. A curved seat <NUM> (<FIG>) resides at the base <NUM> to receive and cradle the bridge <NUM> of the retainer <NUM> when the retainer <NUM> is brought to its position of securement. And opposite the second working surface <NUM>, the appendage <NUM> has an inner working surface <NUM> in general confrontation with the switch <NUM> for direct impingement thereagainst.

The actuator member <NUM> experiences movement amid insertion of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM> and securement of the retainer <NUM>, as described more below. To facilitate the actuator member's movement, a first hinged end <NUM> resides at the first extension <NUM> and a second hinged end <NUM> resides at the second extension <NUM>. In this embodiment, the first hinged end <NUM> is a thinned wall section relative to the thickness of the immediately surrounding wall sections. The first hinged end <NUM> defines a first axis <NUM> (<FIG>). A part of the actuator member's movement can involve the base <NUM> being deflected and displaced about the first hinged end <NUM> and about the first axis <NUM> with respect to the cover <NUM>. Similar to the first hinged end <NUM>, the second hinged end <NUM> defines a second axis <NUM> (<FIG>). Another part of the actuator member's movement can involve the appendage <NUM> being deflected and displaced about the second hinged end <NUM> and about the second axis <NUM> with respect to the base <NUM>. The first axis <NUM> and second axis <NUM> are parallel to each other in this embodiment, and are arranged generally orthogonal relative to the direction of insertion <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the actuator member <NUM> actuates and impinges the switch <NUM> only upon the concurrence of: i) full and complete insertion of the connector <NUM> into the fluid line connector <NUM>, and ii) conclusive and complete movement of the retainer <NUM> to its position of securement. The conditions i) and ii) are shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Absent one of the two conditions i) or ii), or absent both of the conditions i) and ii), the actuator member <NUM> is not actuated and the switch <NUM> is not impinged. Accordingly, the switch <NUM> would only change its state when both conditions i) and ii) are satisfied, and the fluid line connector <NUM> would in turn only indicate proper and full securement when both condition i) and ii) are met. As demonstrated and unlike previous approaches, the fluid line connector <NUM> employs the use of a single switch and a single actuator member to furnish detection of two conditions - that of the connector <NUM> [i.e., i)] and that of the retainer <NUM> [i.e., ii)].

During use of the fluid line connector <NUM>, the connector <NUM> is inserted into the fluid line connector <NUM> and the ramp <NUM> comes into abutment with the appendage <NUM>. The second working surface <NUM> makes direct contact with the ramp's outer surface. A first force is exerted from the ramp <NUM> and to the appendage <NUM>. The first force lies generally transverse to the direction of insertion <NUM>. In response, and when the connector <NUM> reaches its full insertion depth as depicted in <FIG>, both the appendage <NUM> and the base <NUM> can experience some degree of movement - absent the retainer <NUM> being in its position of securement, the movement of the appendage <NUM> and base <NUM> do not result in impingement of the switch <NUM>. The appendage <NUM> moves along an arcuate path relative to the base <NUM> and about the second axis <NUM>. The base <NUM>, on the other hand, is moved slightly outboard relative to the cover <NUM> and about the first axis <NUM> in response to the appendage's movement. The movement of the base <NUM> occurs and, in a sense, is permitted due to the absence of the retainer <NUM> in its position of securement. Indeed, it is the movement of the base <NUM> that forestalls impingement of the switch <NUM>. When the retainer <NUM> moves to its position of securement and the legs <NUM> are received in the slot <NUM>, the retainer <NUM> comes into abutment with the base <NUM>. The first working surface <NUM> makes direct contact with an exterior surface of the retainer's bridge <NUM>. A second force is exerted from the retainer <NUM> and to the base <NUM>. Like the first force, the second force lies generally transverse to the direction of insertion <NUM>. The second force has a direction that is generally opposed to that of the first force. The first and second forces, in this regard, serve as reacting and counterforces to each other. In response, the base <NUM> moves inboard relative to the cover <NUM> and about the first axis <NUM> and to the position depicted best in <FIG>. This movement, and the opposing exertions of the first and second forces, brings the actuator member <NUM> to its actuated state and the actuator member <NUM> impinges and presses the switch <NUM>. Impingement of the switch <NUM> is a result of being sandwiched between the base <NUM> and appendage <NUM> and between the first and second forces.

It is to be understood that the foregoing description is not a definition of the invention, but is a description of one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed herein, but rather is defined solely by the claims below. Furthermore, the statements contained in the foregoing description relate to particular embodiments and are not to be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or on the definition of terms used in the claims, except where a term or phrase is expressly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiment(s) will become apparent to those skilled in the art. All such other embodiments, changes, and modifications are intended to come within the scope of the appended claims.

Claim 1:
A fluid line connector (<NUM>), comprising:
a body (<NUM>), a passage (<NUM>) residing in said body, and an opening (<NUM>) residing in said body (<NUM>);
a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag (<NUM>) carried by said body (<NUM>);
a retainer (<NUM>) moveable through said opening (<NUM>) in said body (<NUM>);
an actuator member (<NUM>) having a base (<NUM>) and an appendage depending from said base (<NUM>);
and
a switch (<NUM>) electrically coupled with said RFID tag (<NUM>), said switch (<NUM>) changing its state upon impingement by said actuator member (<NUM>), impingement occurring upon both of a first force exerted to said appendage from another connector inserted into the fluid line connector and a second force exerted to said base (<NUM>) from said retainer (<NUM>),
wherein said base (<NUM>) spanning from a cover of the fluid line connector (<NUM>) via a first hinged end (<NUM>), said appendage spanning from said base (<NUM>) via a second hinged end (<NUM>), said base (<NUM>) moveable relative to the cover about said first hinged end, and said appendage moveable relative to said base (<NUM>) about said second hinged end.