US Patent 10355390 Automatic opening of a connector self-closure system

In at least one embodiment, a connector assembly for being positioned on a vehicle is provided. The connector assembly includes first and second connector portions. The first connector portion defines a first and second channels. Each of the first and second channels are positioned on opposite sides of the first connector portion. The first connector portion includes a first contact member and a second contact member. The second connector portion includes a first shutter and a second shutter positioned on an outer surface of the second connector portion. Each of the first shutter and the second shutter are configured to receive the first contact member and the second contact member, respectively. Each of the first and second shutters pivot about an axis in response to receiving the first contact member and the second contact member, respectively, to enable the first connector portion to mate with the second connector portion.