Plug connector, plug connector assembly and use of a plug connector

Description

1 / 27 “PLUG CONNECTOR, PLUG CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY AND USE OF A PLUG CONNECTOR”

[001] The invention relates to a plug connector for detachable connection of a first fluid line to a second fluid line by means of an insertion sleeve, to an assembly comprising such a plug connector and to a use of the plug connector for connecting a first fluid line to a second fluid line.

[002] Generic plug connectors are used in the widest variety of industrial fields to connect two fluid lines, preferably in a leak-tight manner. This usually occurs in the context of an assembly process for a given fluid transport product. Depending on the specific application field and the fluid used, fluid lines can be substantially rigid pipes or flexible hoses. However, a fluid line can also be integrated into a component. The fluids used can be gaseous or liquid media. For example, air (pressurized) or certain process gases can be supplied as a gaseous medium. For example, water, lubricating oil, coolant, refrigerant, etc. are used as a liquid medium.

[003] During the assembly process of a product, it may be necessary, for example, to connect a first fluid line or fluid connection of a component to be assembled to a corresponding fluid line or fluid connection of the existing product. To prevent subsequent leaks, it is essential that the connection is made correctly and with a high degree of reliability. Due to increasingly efficient production processes, the travel time in the assembly process is also generally reduced. As a result, there is less and less time available for the individual assembly steps. Therefore, in addition to high reliability, a quick connection of the fluid lines via the plug connector is also desirable. As a general rule, one side of the plug connector is connected directly to one of the two fluid lines, and the other fluid line is first connected to an insert sleeve. To connect the two lines, the Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 104 / 146 The 2 / 27 insertion sleeve is finally attached to the plug connector, usually in a detachable form.

[004] Several plug connectors are known from the documents WO 2018 / 144902 A1, WO 2018 / 102213 A1 and EP 3 179 148 A1. The plug connectors known from these documents have the disadvantage that the connection may be faulty or that it may not be possible to clearly determine whether the plug connectors are correctly fitted to each other.

[005] The objective of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and provide a plug connector that allows a quick and reliable connection between the plug connector and the insertion sleeve.

[006] This objective is achieved with a plug connector according to claim 1. The plug connector according to the invention enables the insertion sleeve, as soon as it is in the intended coupling position, to be automatically and reliably and positively locked into the inner sleeve by the interaction of the release spring with the displacement sleeve and the locking element. A forced orientation of the locking element is achieved by the first orientation device, whereby a reliable displacement of the locking element between the locked and released positions is ensured.

[007] The displacement sleeve is preferably manually displaceable from the locked position back to the parked position, preferably by means of a gripping section provided on the outer circumferential surface, as a result of which a compressive force directed against the release force can be transmitted to the release spring, as a result of which the retaining section can be brought back to the retained position, wherein the first guiding device of the displacement sleeve is designed in such a way that, when the displacement sleeve moves from the locked position to the parked position, a second guiding force acts on the locking element, through which the locking element can be displaced from the locked position to the released position. As a result, the locking can be disengaged again in such a way Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 105 / 146 3 / 27 simple, in which the forced orientation ensures reliable unlocking.

[008] The release spring may have an inwardly directed restoring force, in the radial direction of the inner sleeve, in the region of the retaining section, whereby the retaining section locks into the retaining projection when the retained position is reached. Alternatively or additionally, a restoring projection may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the displacement sleeve, which is designed to exert an inwardly directed restoring force, in the radial direction of the inner sleeve, on the release spring when the displacement sleeve moves from the locking position to the stationary position, whereby the retaining section of the release spring locks into the retaining projection when the retained position is reached. As a result, locking the release spring in the retained position is facilitated. The restoring projection preferably has an oblique restoring surface facing the first end of the displacement sleeve.

[009] Preferably, the release spring has a spring wire with a first free end of the wire, a second free end of the wire and a central section between them, wherein the central section rests on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve, at least in sections, and preferably extends in the circumferential direction at an angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 45°, with particular preference at least 60°, in particular at least 90°. The central section may be designed substantially in an S-shape or in a V-shape. In the region of the first free end of the wire, a fixing section may be provided, which may be fixed to a fixing receptacle disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve in the region of the first axial end of the inner sleeve, wherein the retaining section may be provided in the region of the second free end of the wire.As a result, a structurally simple release spring is created, which is accommodated in a space between the displacement sleeve and the inner sleeve, in the radial direction.

[010] The locking receptacle is preferably designed as a circumferential groove and extends in the circumferential direction of the inner sleeve by Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 106 / 146 4 / 27 a groove angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, with particular preference at least 90°. With particular preference, the circumferential groove lies in a plane that is normal to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve. An axial position of the locking receptacle in the inner sleeve is preferably fixed as a function of an axial position of the engagement opening of the insertion sleeve and / or an axial position of the actuation opening in the inner sleeve is preferably fixed as a function of an axial position of a conical section of the insertion sleeve. Consequently, the locking mechanism can be adapted to a standardized insertion sleeve, in particular an insertion sleeve according to the VDA standard.

[011] The first displacement sleeve orientation device preferably comprises a first orientation link and a second orientation link, which are arranged apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the displacement sleeve, on the inner circumferential surface of the displacement sleeve. In this case, the locking element preferably comprises a rod with a first free rod end and a second opposite free rod end, wherein a first orientation section is provided in the region of the first rod end, which is force-oriented into the first orientation link, and a second orientation section is provided in the region of the second rod end, which is force-oriented into the second orientation link, and wherein the locking section is located between the free ends of the rod. The embodiment allows reliable orientation of the locking element on both sides and stable locking.

[012] It is advantageous if the locking mechanism comprises at least two similar locking mechanisms, which are arranged in the plug connector in relation to a longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve, preferably diametrically opposite to it. This improves the locking effect. In this way, at least two similar locking mechanisms can be actuated at the same time.

[013] It is advantageous that the connecting section of the first end of the sleeve Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 107 / 146 5 / 27 internal axial sleeve comprises a number of locking recesses designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding locking projections provided in the first fluid line, in order to form a positive connection in the axial and / or circumferential direction. Alternatively or additionally, the connection section of the first end of the internal axial sleeve may comprise a number of locking projections designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding locking projections provided in the first fluid line, in order to form a positive connection in the axial and / or circumferential direction. As a result, a stable detachable connection to the first fluid line is possible. In this case, the locking recesses or locking projections may be formed integrally with the internal sleeve, for example, and may be produced, for example, during the production of the internal sleeve. This allows for simple and economical production.

[014] Preferably, a second orientation device is provided for axially orienting the displacement sleeve along the inner sleeve, wherein the second orientation device preferably comprises at least one first orientation projection and at least one second orientation projection, which are arranged apart from each other in the circumferential direction on the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve and comprises an orientation rod, which is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the displacement sleeve and extends in the axial direction, at least over a portion of a length of the displacement sleeve, wherein the orientation rod is oriented in the circumferential direction, between the first orientation projection and the second orientation projection. As a result, stable and reliable orientation of the displacement sleeve along the inner sleeve is possible.In this case, the orientation projections can again be formed integrally with the inner sleeve and, in turn, can be produced directly during the production of the inner sleeve. The orientation rod is preferably formed integrally with the restoration projection.

[015] It is advantageous to provide several positioning recesses in the inner sleeve, extending respectively from the second end. Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 108 / 146 6 / 27 axial of the inner sleeve over a portion of the inner sleeve, in the direction of the first axial end of the inner sleeve, and which, in each case, connect the inner circumferential surface to the outer circumferential surface of the inner sleeve, wherein the various positioning recesses are designed to cooperate with various corresponding positioning projections provided on the insertion sleeve, in order to position the insertion sleeve in the coupling position, in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve. As a result, simple positioning of the insertion sleeve is possible relative to the inner sleeve, so that the coupling position can be achieved quickly and easily.

[016] The plug connector preferably has a display device to indicate to a user whether the displacement sleeve is in the locked position and the locking element is in the locked position. In this case, the display device may comprise a number of signal tabs, which are arranged distributed around the circumference of the first end of the inner axial sleeve, wherein several signal tabs project beyond the first end of the inner axial sleeve, in the axial direction, wherein the several signal tabs comprise, respectively, a signal surface, wherein, in the stationary position of the displacement sleeve, a first part of the signal surface is covered by the displacement sleeve and, in the locked position of the displacement sleeve, a smaller part, relative to the first part, of the signal surface is covered by the displacement sleeve or the signal surface is completely exposed.It can also be advantageous if a machine-readable code, preferably a QR code, is displayed on at least one of the signal surfaces, which can be read by machine when the roller sleeve is in the locked position. This provides a simple and reliable way to detect the locked state. Using the machine-readable code, it can be detected, for example, during assembly, by means of a reading device, such as a camera system, preferably in an automated way if the connector... Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 109 / 146 The 7 / 27 plug was properly locked.

[017] For a better understanding of the invention, it will be explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[018] In each case, they are shown in a very simplified schematic representation: Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the plug connector of an advantageous embodiment; In Figure 2, the inner sleeve of the plug connector is shown in a perspective view; In Figure 3a, a longitudinal perspective cut through the plug connector before locking the insertion sleeve; In Figure 3b, a longitudinal perspective cut through the plug connector during the locking of the insertion sleeve; In Figure 3c, a longitudinal perspective cut through the plug connector after locking the insertion sleeve; In Figure 4, a longitudinal section through the displacement sleeve of the plug connector incl. locking element; In Figure 5a, a set of plug connectors in the uncoupled state of the insertion sleeve; In Figure 5b, a set of plug connectors in the coupled state of the insertion sleeve; Figure 6 shows a longitudinal section through the plug connector assembly in the locked state of the insertion sleeve.

[019] As an introduction, it should be noted that, in the embodiments described differently, the identical parts are provided with identical reference numerals or identical component designations, whereby the disclosures contained in the entire description can be transferred analogously to the identical parts with the same reference numerals or the same component designations. Furthermore, the positional information selected in the description, such as, for example, top, Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 110 / 146 8 / 27 lower, lateral, etc. are related to the figure directly described and illustrated, and this positional information must be transferred to the new position in an analogous way in case of a change of position.

[020] Figure 1 shows the plug connector 1 according to the invention in an advantageous, non-limiting embodiment and in exploded view. The plug connector 1 is used to connect, in a detachable manner, a first fluid line 2a to a second fluid line 2b by means of an insertion sleeve 3. The first fluid line 2a, the insertion sleeve 3 and the second fluid line 2b are not part of the present invention. The plug connector 1 has a substantially cylindrical inner sleeve 4 with a first open axial inner sleeve end 4a and an opposite second open axial inner sleeve end 4b. The inner sleeve 4 can be produced, for example, from a suitable plastic or, optionally, also from a metallic material. The inner sleeve 4 of the plug connector 1 is shown in detail in Figure 2.

[021] In the following description, reference is made to Figures 1 to 6, where identical reference numbers or component designations are used for identical parts. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, the respective reference is made to the detailed description in the figures above.

[022] In the region of the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a, a connecting section V is provided to connect the inner sleeve 4 to the first fluid line 2a. In the illustrated example, the connecting section V has a number of locking recesses 20, which are designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding locking projections 21, provided in the first fluid line 2a, in order to form a positive connection. As shown, several locking recesses 20 can be provided distributed around the circumference. In this embodiment, the positive connection can be generated in both the axial and circumferential directions.

[023] Naturally, however, the reverse embodiment (not shown) would also be conceivable, in which a number of locking projections 21 are provided on the connection section V of the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a, which are Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 111 / 146 9 / 27 designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding locking recesses 20, provided in the first fluid line 2a, in order to form a positive link. Naturally, a combination of locking projections 21 and locking recesses 20 would also be conceivable.

[024] In the circumferential direction, for example, a recess 20a can be provided between two successive locking recesses 20 (or locking projections 21), extending from the first axial end of the inner sleeve 4a over a portion of the length of the inner sleeve 4, towards the second axial end of the inner sleeve 4b (see Figure 2). As a result, a separate bending tab is created for each locking recess 20, which allows a certain elasticity in the radial direction. The bending tabs can be bent outwards by connecting to the first fluid line 2a, as a result of which locking on the locking projections 21 is facilitated. However, the illustrated embodiment of the V-connection section should be understood only as an example. One skilled in the art could also, in principle, choose another suitable form of connection.

[025] The second end of the axial inner sleeve 4b of the inner sleeve 4 encloses a receiving space AR, into which a first open axial insertion sleeve end 3a of the insertion sleeve 3 can be axially inserted. A second open axial insertion sleeve end 3b opposite the insertion sleeve 3 can be connected to the second fluid line 2b. The insertion sleeve 3 is not part of the invention and may be, for example, a standardized or normalized component, as will be explained in detail later. Depending on the structural embodiment of the insertion sleeve 3, the second fluid line 2b may also be designed differently. The second fluid line 2b is indicated in Figure 2 only with dashed lines.

[026] In addition, the plug connector 1 has a locking mechanism to positively lock the insertion sleeve 3 with the inner sleeve 4. In the example shown, the locking mechanism comprises, for example, two similar locking mechanisms, which are arranged diametrically opposite to each other. Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 112 / 146 10 / 27 in the plug connector 1 in relation to a longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve 4. Naturally, more than two locking mechanisms, preferably similar ones, would also be conceivable. For the sake of simplicity, the invention is described with reference to one locking mechanism. If several locking mechanisms are provided, it is advantageous, for ease of handling, if they can be actuated simultaneously for locking and unlocking.

[027] The locking mechanism comprises at least one locking recess 11 and at least one locking element 12. The locking recess 11 connects an outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4 to the receiving space AR. When the insertion sleeve 3 is in a fixed coupling position in the receiving space AR of the inner sleeve 4 (see Figure 3c), the locking element 12 can then be moved within the locking recess 11, between a locked position SS, in which a locked section 12c (see Figure 2) of the locking element 12 is attached to an engagement opening 13 disposed in the insertion sleeve 3, and a released position FS, in which the locking section 12c is not attached to the engagement opening 13. If the locking element 12 is attached to the engagement opening 13, then the insertion sleeve 3 is positively connected to the inner sleeve 4, at least in the axial direction, or is locked to it.Depending on the structural design of the locking element 12 and the engagement opening 13, a positive engagement in the circumferential direction may optionally also occur.

[028] As shown in Figure 1, and in detail in Figure 2, the locking recess 11 is preferably designed as a circumferential groove. The circumferential groove may extend in the circumferential direction of the inner sleeve 4, for example, by a groove angle α of at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, with particular preference at least 90°. The circumferential groove preferably lies in a plane that is normal to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve 4.

[029] An axial position of the locking recess 11 in the inner sleeve 4 Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 113 / 146 11 / 27 can be fixed, for example, based on an axial position of the engagement opening 13 of the insertion sleeve 3. In general, the dimensions of the inner sleeve 4, for example, an axial length as well as an inner diameter of the receiving space AR, can be oriented, for example, to the dimensions of a standardized or normalized insertion sleeve 3. Figure 1 shows, by way of example, an insertion sleeve 3 that is designed according to a preferred standard of the Automotive Industry Association (VDA).

[030] The insertion sleeve 3 shown has a first cylindrical section ZA1 in the region of the first end of the axial insertion sleeve 3a. The first cylindrical section ZA1 is connected to a second cylindrical section ZA2 by a conical section 19. The second cylindrical section ZA2 has a larger diameter than the first cylindrical section ZA1. The engagement opening 13 is arranged on an external circumferential surface AU3 of the second cylindrical section ZA2 and is designed in a groove shape. In the example shown, two engagement openings 13 are provided, which are arranged diametrically opposite and extend, respectively, by a certain angle in the circumferential direction. Each engagement opening 13 cooperates with a locking mechanism of the plug connector 1, in particular with a locking element 12.Naturally, this design is merely illustrative, and the engagement opening 13 could also comprise just a single circumferential groove extending around the entire circumference.

[031] According to the invention, the plug connector 1 has a displacement sleeve 5, which is located outside the inner sleeve 4 in the radial direction and which can be displaced in the axial direction, along the inner sleeve 4, between a stationary position PP (see Figure 5a), in which the locking mechanism is deactivated, and a locked position VP (see Figure 5b), in which the locking mechanism is activated. Before the plug connector 1 can be coupled to the insertion sleeve 3, the displacement sleeve 5 must, of course, be in the stationary position PP or be brought from the locked position VP to the stationary position PP. This can be done manually by a user, for example, by Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 114 / 146 12 / 27 middle of the gripping section 15.

[032] The locking mechanism also has a release spring 6 with an actuating section 7 and a retaining section 8. When the displacement sleeve 5 is in the parked position PP, then the release spring 6 is pretensioned in a retained position HP, in which the retaining section 8 is engaged in a retaining projection 9 of the inner sleeve 4, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3a.

[033] In addition, a drive opening 10 is provided in the inner sleeve. 4, which connects the outer circumferential surface AU4 to the receiving space AR. Viewed in the axial direction of the inner sleeve 4, the actuation opening 10 is located between the locking recess 11 and the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4b. The actuation opening 10 can be seen in the lower locking mechanism in Figure 2. When the release spring 6 is in the retained position HP, the actuation section 7 then projects inward, in the radial direction, through the actuation opening 10 into the receiving space AR of the inner sleeve 4, as can also be seen in the lower locking mechanism in Figure 2.

[034] When the insertion sleeve 3 is inserted into the receiving space AR of the inner sleeve 4, in the axial direction, so as to produce locking (as indicated by the arrow in Figure 3a), the actuating section 7 of the release spring 6 is then pushed, by the insertion sleeve 3, out of the receiving space AR, in the radial direction, for example, through the conical section 19, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 3b. As a result, the retaining section 8 of the release spring 6 is released from the retaining projection 9 of the inner sleeve 4, and a release force FA, oriented in the direction of the second end of the axial inner sleeve 4b, is exerted by the release spring 6 on the displacement sleeve 5, as shown in Figure 3c.

[035] For this purpose, a force-absorbing projection 5v can be arranged on an inner circumferential surface IU5 of the displacement sleeve 5, on which the release spring 6 (Figure 3b) acts. Due to the release force FA (indicated in Figure 3c by an arrow), the displacement sleeve 5 is automatically changed (if Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 115 / 146 13 / 27 if not locked) from the parked position PP to the locked position VP.

[036] Analogously to the position of the locking recess 11, an axial position of the actuation opening 10 in the inner sleeve 4 can also be fixed as a function of an axial position of a conical section 19 of the insertion sleeve 3, preferably standardized. This ensures that the actuation section 7 of the release spring 6 is actuated when the insertion sleeve 3 is inserted into the receiving space AR and pushed out of the receiving space AR reliably.

[037] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the release spring 6 has an inwardly oriented restoring force in the radial direction of the inner sleeve 4, in the region of the retaining section 8. As a result of this restoring force, the retaining section 8 engages better with the retaining projection 9 when the retained position HP is reached.

[038] Alternatively or additionally, it may be advantageous that a restoring projection 23 be provided on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the displacement sleeve 5. The restoring projection 23 is designed to exert an inwardly oriented restoring force, in the radial direction of the inner sleeve 4, on the release spring 6 when the displacement sleeve 5 moves from the locking position VP to the stationary position PP, whereby the retaining section 8 of the release spring 6 engages with the retaining projection 9 when the retained position HP is reached. In the example according to Figure 1, the displacement sleeve 5 comprises two diametrically opposed restoring projections 23, one restoring projection 23 for each locking mechanism.

[039] The restoring projection 23 can be designed, for example, as an elongated rod that, starting from the second end of the displacement sleeve 5b, extends over a portion of the length of the displacement sleeve 5 towards the first end of the displacement sleeve 5a. At one end of the rod facing the first end of the displacement sleeve 5a, an oblique restoring surface 23a can be provided, which is designed to cooperate with the release spring 6, in particular the central section 6c described below - see Figure Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 116 / 146 14 / 27 - to generate the restoring force. The restoration surface 23a can be seen in Figure 1, in the upper restoration projection 23.

[040] In the illustrated example, the release spring 6 is formed from a spring wire and has a first free wire end 6a, a second free wire end 6b, and a central section 6c between them (see Figure 2). As shown in Figure 2, the central section 6c rests, at least in sections, against the outer circumferential surface UA4 of the inner sleeve 4. In the circumferential direction, the central section 6c may extend, for example, over an angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 45°, with particular preference at least 60°, in particular at least 90°. In the example shown, the central section 6c (in top view) is designed substantially in an S shape and has two arcs. However, the central section 6c could (in top view), for example, also be designed substantially in a V shape and have only one arc.

[041] In the region of the first free wire end 6a, a fastening section 17 may be provided, which is fixed to a fastening receptacle 18, which is disposed on the outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4, in the region of the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a. As shown in Figure 2, the inner sleeve may have a radially protruding collar at the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a, which extends over a certain section in the circumferential direction. An axial recess may be provided in this collar, which may serve as a fastening receptacle 18. The retaining section 8 may be provided in the region of the second free wire end 6b. The drive section 7 may also be provided in the region of the second free wire end 6b and may be formed, for example, by a U-shaped section of spring wire.

[042] According to another advantageous embodiment, a stop projection 16 can be provided on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the displacement sleeve 5, wherein it is designed to form a stop for the second free wire end 6b of the release spring 6 in the circumferential direction. The stop projection 16 is shown in Figure 1. The stop projection 16 can Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 117 / 146 15 / 27 having a stopping surface 16a, which is facing the second free wire end 6b of the release spring 6 in the circumferential direction, when the displacement sleeve 5 is in the parked position PP.

[043] A front surface of the second free wire end 6b of the release spring 6, which delimits the second free wire end 6b in the circumferential direction, can rest against the stop surface 16a of the stop projection 16, whereby unwanted movement of the release spring 6 in the circumferential direction can be avoided. The front surface of the second free wire end 6b can only be seen on the upper release spring 6, in Figure 1 and Figure 2. Naturally, a stop projection 16 (not shown), which can be arranged diametrically opposite the lower stop projection 16 shown in Figure 1, on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the displacement sleeve 5, can be provided for the upper release spring 6 in an analogous manner.

[044] In addition, a first guiding device 14 for guiding the locking element 12 is provided in the displacement sleeve 5. The first guiding device 14 is designed such that, when the displacement sleeve 5 is moved from the stationary position PP to the locked position VP, a first guiding force FF1 acts on the locking element 12, whereby the locking element 12 (if not locked) is moved from the released position FS to the locked position SS, as indicated by the arrow in Figure 3c. When the insertion sleeve 3 is in the coupling position indicated in Figure 3c, the engagement opening 13 then aligns with the locking recess 11 in the radial direction and the locking element 12 can be engaged with the engagement opening 13, so as to produce positive locking.

[045] In the illustrated example, the first orientation device 14 of the displacement sleeve 5 has a first orientation link 14a and a second orientation link 14b, which are arranged apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the displacement sleeve 5 on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the displacement sleeve 5 (see Figure 1). The first orientation link 14a of the first Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 118 / 146 The 16 / 27 guide link 14 of the lower locking mechanism can be seen in Figure 1. The second guide link 14b opposite the first guide link 14 of the lower locking mechanism cannot be seen in Figure 1 and is therefore indicated with dashed lines. The two guide links 14a, 14b of the first guide link 14 of the upper locking mechanism are designed analogously, but cannot be seen in Figure 1.

[046] In the example shown, the locking element 12 has a cylindrical rod with a first free rod end and a second opposite free rod end. A first orientation section 12a is provided in the region of the first free rod end and a second orientation section 12b is provided in the region of the second free rod end. As can be seen in Figure 2, the locking element 12 is arranged in the groove-shaped locking recess 11, such that the cylindrical rod is arranged substantially tangentially with respect to the inner sleeve 4. A length of the cylindrical rod is dimensioned such that the first orientation section 12a and the second orientation section 12b are located outside the circumference of the inner sleeve 4, both in the released position FS and in the locked position SS, and protrude beyond the outer circumferential surface UA4 of the inner sleeve 4.

[047] In the assembled state of the displacement sleeve 5 in the inner sleeve 4, the first orientation section 12a is received in the first orientation link 14a and forcibly guided through the first orientation link 14a. Similarly, the second orientation section 12b is accommodated in the second orientation link 14b and forcibly guided through the second orientation link 14b. The locking section 12c, which is engaged with the engagement opening 13 of the insertion sleeve 3 in the locked state of the insertion sleeve 3 in the inner sleeve 4, is located in a central region between the free ends of the rod or, respectively, the orientation sections 12a, 12b (see Figure 2).

[048] The function of the first orientation device 14 is explained in more detail below with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 shows a longitudinal section. Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 119 / 146 17 / 27 through the displacement sleeve 5, including the locking element 12. For simplicity, only the upper half of the displacement sleeve 5 is shown. As mentioned above, the first orientation device 14 has a first orientation link 14a and a second orientation link 14b (not shown in Figure 4), normally opposite in the plane of the drawing. The second orientation link 14b is configured substantially identically to the first orientation link 14a.

[049] The displacement sleeve 5 is movable in the axial direction, along the inner sleeve 4, between the stationary position PP (left in Figure 4) and the locked position VP (right in Figure 4). Because the locking element 12 is accommodated in the locking recess 11 of the inner sleeve 4 (not shown), the locking element 12 is fixed in the axial direction relative to the inner sleeve 4. In the radial direction, the locking element 12 is movable, within the locking recess 11, relative to the inner sleeve 4, between the released position FS (see Figure 3b) and the locked position SP (see Figure 3c).

[050] The first guide link 14a and the second guide link 14b (not shown) are designed in a groove shape and each has a first link section 14_1 and a second link section 14_2, as can be seen in Figure 4. At this point, the first link section 14_1 is connected to the first end of the axial displacement sleeve 5a of the displacement sleeve 5, so as to facilitate the assembly of the displacement sleeve 5 into the inner sleeve 4.

[051] The first link section 14_1 is designed in a substantially straight manner and extends over a portion of the length of the displacement sleeve 5 towards the second end of the axial displacement sleeve 5b, opposite the displacement sleeve 5. The first link section 14_1 runs substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A5 of the displacement sleeve 5. As can be seen in Figure 4, the first link section 14_1 may also have a tapered course and taper from the first end of the axial displacement sleeve 5a towards the second end of the axial displacement sleeve 5b. Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 120 / 146 18 / 27

[052] The second link section 14_2 is contiguous to the first link section 14_1 and, in this case, is also designed straight and inclined at an angle to the first link section 14_1. The second link section 14_2, in particular the facing walls of the groove, thus forms a kind of inclined plane for the orientation of the first orientation section 12a of the locking element 12. The end of the second link section 14_2, facing the second end of the axial displacement sleeve 5b of the displacement sleeve 5 is preferably closed. However, the illustrated embodiment should be understood only by way of example, and the first orientation link 14a could also have a curved course, for example.

[053] When the displacement sleeve 5 is in the parked position PP, then the locking element 12 is in the released position FS and is accommodated in the second link section 14_2 of the first orientation link 14a, as shown with dashed lines in Figure 4. When the displacement sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP, then the locking element 12 is in the locked position SS and is accommodated in the first link section 14_1 of the first orientation link 14a, as also shown with dashed lines in Figure 4.

[054] If the displacement sleeve 5 is in a position between the parked position PP and the locked position VP, the locking element 12 is then in a position between the released position FS and the locked position SS (shown in Figure 4). However, the illustration serves only to illustrate the radial position of the locking element 12. The axial position of the locking element 12 remains unchanged during operation, since the locking element 12 is accommodated in the locking recess 11.

[055] If the displacement sleeve 5 is moved from the stationary position PP to the locked position VP due to the release force FA of the release spring 6 (see Figure 3c), a first guiding force FF1 is exerted on the locking element 12 by the second link section 14_2 of the first guiding link 14a (pointing downwards in Figure 4, as indicated by the arrow). The locking element 12 is displaced from the released position FS to the position Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 121 / 146 19 / 27 blocked SS by the first guidance force FF1.

[056] In order to release the locking, the displacement sleeve 5 can be manually moved from the locked position VP back to the stationary position PP, preferably by means of a gripping section 15 provided on the outer circumferential surface AU5. Consequently, a compressive force directed against the release force FA is transmitted from the displacement sleeve 5, for example from the force absorption projection 5V, to the release spring 6, as a result of which the retaining section 8 can be brought back to the retained position HP.

[057] The first guidance device 14 of the displacement sleeve 5 is designed in such a way that, when the displacement sleeve 5 moves from the locked position VP to the stationary position PP, a second guidance force FF2 is exerted on the locking element 12 by the second link section 14_2 of the first guidance link 14a (pointing upwards in Figure 4, as indicated by the arrow). The locking element 12 is moved from the locked position SS to the released position FS by the second guidance force FF2.

[058] In order to improve the axial orientation of the displacement sleeve 5 along the inner sleeve 4, it is advantageous that at least one second orientation device 22 be provided. In the example shown, two second orientation devices 22 are provided, arranged diametrically opposite to each other on the plug connector 1. The second orientation device 22 preferably has at least one first orientation projection 22a and at least one second orientation projection 22b, which are arranged estranged from each other in the circumferential direction, on the outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4. In the example presented, for instance, two first orientation projections 22a, axially estranged from each other, and two second orientation projections 22b, axially estranged from each other, are provided. The orientation projections 22a, 22b are preferably integrally formed with the inner sleeve 4.

[059] The second orientation device 22 also includes a rod of Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 122 / 146 20 / 27 orientation 32 that is provided on the inner circumferential surface IU5 of the displacement sleeve 5 and extends in the axial direction, at least for a portion of the length of the displacement sleeve 5. In the example shown, two orientation rods 32 are provided, extending respectively from the second end of the axial displacement sleeve 5b, over a portion of the length of the displacement sleeve 5 in the direction of the first end of the axial displacement sleeve 5b. The orientation rods 32 can be seen in Figure 1, where only the front end of the orientation rod 32, illustrated above, can be seen in Figure 1, and the remainder cannot be seen and is therefore shown with dashed lines.In the assembled state of the displacement sleeve 5 in the inner sleeve 4, a guide rod 32 is respectively arranged in the circumferential direction, between the respective at least one first guide projection 22a and the respective at least one second guide projection 22b and is guided through the guide projections 22a, 22b.

[060] As can be seen in Figure 1, the orientation rod 32 and the restoration projection 23 can be conceived as an integral rod. A section of the rod facing the second end of the displacement sleeve 5b can function as orientation rod 32, and a section of the rod facing the first end of the displacement sleeve 5a (in which the oblique restoration surface 23a is provided) can function as restoration projection 23.

[061] According to a further advantageous design, a number of positioning recesses 24 are provided in the inner sleeve 4, which extend respectively from the second end of the axial inner sleeve 4b, over a portion of the inner sleeve towards the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a and which respectively connect the inner circumferential surface IU4 to the outer circumferential surface AU4 of the inner sleeve 4 (see Figure 2). The number of positioning recesses 24 is designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding positioning projections 25 provided in the insertion sleeve 3 (see Figure 1) to position the sleeve of Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 123 / 146 21 / 27 insertion 3 in the coupling position relative to the inner sleeve 4, in the circumferential direction. The quantity, position and size of the positioning recesses 24 preferably depend on the structural design of the insertion sleeve 3. In the example shown, two positioning recesses 24 are provided as an example, which are arranged diametrically opposite each other in the inner sleeve 4.

[062] According to another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the plug connector 1 comprises a display device A to show a user whether the displacement sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP and, consequently, the locking element 12, in the locked position SS. In the example shown, the display device A has a number of signal tabs 26 (e.g., four), which are arranged distributed on the circumference at the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a. The number of signal tabs 26 may project beyond the first end of the axial inner sleeve 4a in the axial direction.The number of signal flaps 26 may each comprise a signal surface 27, wherein, in the stationary position PP of the displacement sleeve 5, a first part of the signal surface 27 is covered by the displacement sleeve 5 and, in the locked position VP of the displacement sleeve 5, a smaller part of the signal surface 27, in relation to the first part, is covered by the displacement sleeve 5 or the signal surface 27 is completely exposed.

[063] It is advantageous that a machine-readable code, preferably a code QR, for represented on at least one of the signal surfaces 27, which can be read by machine when the displacement sleeve is in the locked position. Consequently, it can be automatically detected whether the insertion sleeve 3 has been properly coupled to the plug connector 1. The detection can be carried out, for example, by means of a camera system and industrial image processing.

[064] Figure 5a shows a plug connector assembly comprising plug connector 1, first fluid line 2a, insertion sleeve 3 and second Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 124 / 146 22 / 27 fluid line 2b. The first fluid line 2a is mounted on the plug connector 1, where the locking projections 21 of the first fluid line 2a are locked into the locking recesses 20 of the connecting section V of the inner sleeve 4. Furthermore, the insertion sleeve 3 is connected to the second fluid line 2b. The second fluid line 2b is shown only schematically. In Figure 5a, the insertion sleeve 3 is not coupled to the plug connector 1, and the displacement sleeve 5 is in the parked position PP. In the parked position PP, at least part of the signal surfaces 27 of the signal tabs 26 are covered by the displacement sleeve 5 and are not visible from the outside. This means that a QR code displayed on the signal surfaces 27 is partially covered and cannot be read.

[065] In Figure 5b, the plug connector assembly is shown in the coupled state of the insertion sleeve 3 with the plug connector 1. In this case, the displacement sleeve 5 is in the locked position VP, in which the two locking elements 12 (usually at least one locking element 12) are in the locked position SS, as shown in Figure 3c. In the locked position SS, the locking sections 12c of the locking elements 12 are engaged with the respective engagement opening 13 of the insertion sleeve 3. The positioning projections 25 of the insertion sleeve 3 are engaged with the positioning recesses 24 of the inner sleeve 4, which ensures that the insertion sleeve 3 is in the correct coupling position, in the circumferential direction.

[066] As can be seen further in Figure 5b, the displacement sleeve 5 is arranged in the locked position VP relative to the inner sleeve 4, in the axial direction, so that the second end of the axial displacement sleeve 5b of the displacement sleeve 5 projects beyond the second end of the axial inner sleeve 4b of the inner sleeve 4. As a result, a larger portion of the signal surfaces 27 of the signal flaps 26 is exposed than in the stationary position PP (according to Figure 5a), so that a QR code, displayed on them, can be read. Preferably, the signal surfaces 27 are substantially completely exposed. The reading can be performed, for example, automatically or Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 125 / 146 23 / 27 manually by an installer, for example, using a suitable camera or a QR code reader. If the QR code cannot be read, this means that the displacement sleeve 5 has not reached the locked position VP and therefore the coupling procedure has not been performed correctly. The information can be used, for example, to repeat the coupling procedure until a correct coupling is achieved.

[067] Figure 6 shows a longitudinal section through the plug connector assembly in the coupled state of the insertion sleeve 3. The illustration in Figure 6 corresponds substantially to the illustration in Figure 3c. A first circumferential projection 28 with a first annular frontal surface 28a, which faces the open end of the first fluid line 2a in the axial direction, is provided on an inner circumferential surface IU2 of an end section of the first fluid line 2a. In addition, a second circumferential projection 29 with a second annular frontal surface 29a, which faces the first open inner sleeve end 4a in the axial direction, is provided on the inner circumferential surface IU4 of the inner sleeve 4.

[068] Viewed in the axial direction, a sealing gap 30 is formed between the first annular front surface 28a and the second annular front surface 29a, and, viewed in the radial direction, it is formed between the inner circumferential surface IU2 of the end section of the first fluid line 2a and the outer circumferential surface AU3 of the first cylindrical section ZA1 of the insertion sleeve 3, in which a sealing element 31 is disposed. The sealing element 31 shown has a substantially cylindrical outer circumferential surface, which rests against the inner circumferential surface of the end section of the first fluid line 2a. Thus, the sealing element 31 can be pre-assembled, for example, in the first fluid line 2a.

[069] The inner circumferential surface is convex or rounded and is in contact with the outer circumferential surface AU3 of the first cylindrical section ZA1 of the insertion sleeve 3. A seal between the insertion sleeve 3 and the first line Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pages 126 / 146 24 / 27 of fluid 2a can be produced by the sealing element 31 in the coupled state of the insert sleeve 3. For example, a sealing ring made of a suitable material can be used as the sealing element 31, wherein, depending on the application (e.g., depending on pressure, temperature, fluid type, etc.), various materials can also be used, for example, rubber, silicone, etc.

[070] The illustrative embodiments show possible variants of conceptions, so it should be noted, at this point, that the invention is not limited to the variants of conceptions specifically illustrated therein, but rather various combinations of the variants of individual conceptions are also possible among themselves and this possibility of variation lies within the ability of the skilled in the art who works in this technical field, due to the instruction on the technical action by the present invention.

[071] The scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the description and drawings should be used for the interpretation of the claims. Individual features or combinations of features of the different exemplary embodiments shown and described may represent independent inventive solutions in themselves. The underlying objective of the independent inventive solutions can be derived from the description.

[072] All information regarding value ranges in this description should be understood to include any and all sub-ranges thereof, for example, the information 1 to 10 should be understood to include all sub-ranges from the lower limit 1 and the upper limit 10, i.e., all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, for example, from 1 to 1.7, or from 3.2 to 8.1, or from 5.5 to 10.

[073] Finally, for the sake of order, it is worth noting that, for a better understanding of the structure, elements have been partially presented to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size. LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS Plug connector Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 127 / 146 25 / 27 2a First fluid line 2b Second fluid line Insertion sleeve 3a First end of axial insertion sleeve 3b Second end of axial insertion sleeve Inner sleeve 4a First end of axial insertion sleeve 4b Second end of axial insertion sleeve Displacement sleeve Release spring Drive section Retention section Retention projection Trigger opening Locking opening Locking element 12th First Orientation Section 12b Second orientation section 12c Locking Section Coupling opening First orientation equipment 14a First link of orientation 14b Second orientation link Grip section Projected stop 16th Surface of the stop Fastening section Fixing receptacle Conical section Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 128 / 146 26 / 27 Locking recess Lock projection Second piece of orientation equipment 22nd First orientation projection 22b Second orientation projection Restoration plan 23a Restoration surface Positioning re-entrant Positioning projection Signal flap Signal surface First circumferential projection 28a First annular frontal surface Second circumferential projection 29a Second annular frontal surface Sealing space Sealing element Guide rod IU2 Inner circumferential surface of the end section of the first fluid line IU4 Inner circumferential surface of the inner sleeve IU5 Inner circumferential surface of displacement sleeve AU3 Outer circumferential surface of the insertion sleeve AU4 Outer circumferential surface of inner sleeve AU5 Outer circumferential surface of displacement sleeve V Connection section PP Parked position VP Position locked AR Reception area Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 129 / 146 27 / 27 FS Position released SS Position blocked FA Release Force First guiding force FF2 Second guiding force HP Position held ZA1 First cylindrical section ZA2 Second cylindrical section α Slot angle Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pages 130 / 146

Claims

1 / 9 CLAIMS 1. Plug connector (1) for detachably connecting a first fluid line (2a) to a second fluid line (2b) by means of an insertion sleeve (3), wherein the plug connector (1) comprises an inner sleeve (4) with a first open axial inner sleeve end (4a) and a second open axial inner sleeve end (4b) opposite, wherein in the region of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a) a connection section (V) is provided for connecting the inner sleeve (4) to the first fluid line (2a), wherein the second open axial inner sleeve end (4b) encloses a receiving space (AR) into which a first open axial insertion sleeve end (3a) of the insertion sleeve (3) can be axially inserted, wherein a second open axial insertion sleeve end (3b) opposite the insertion sleeve (3) can be connected to the second fluid line (2b),wherein the plug connector (1) comprises a locking mechanism for positively locking the insertion sleeve (3) to the inner sleeve (4), wherein the locking mechanism includes a locking recess (11) and a locking element (12), wherein the locking recess (11) connects an outer circumferential surface (AU4) of the inner sleeve (4) to the receiving space (AR), wherein, when the insertion sleeve (3) is in a fixed coupling position in the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), the locking element (12) can be moved within the locking recess (11), between a locked position (SS), in which a locked section (12c) of the locking element (12) is attached to an engagement opening (13) disposed in the insertion sleeve (3), and a released position (FS), in which the locked section (12c) is not attached to the engagement opening (13), characterized in that the plug connector (1) has a sleeve of displacement (5),which is located outside the inner sleeve (4) in the radial direction and which can be moved in the axial direction, along the inner sleeve (4), between a stationary position (PP), in which the locking mechanism is deactivated, and a locked position (VP), in which the locking mechanism is activated, wherein a release spring (6) comprises the locking mechanism with a Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, page. 131 / 146 2 / 9 drive section (7) and a retaining section (8), wherein the release spring (6) is pre-tensioned in a retained position (HP) in the parked position (PP) of the displacement sleeve (5), wherein the retaining section (8) is engaged in a retaining projection (9) of the inner sleeve (4), wherein the drive section (7) in the retained position (HP) projects radially inward into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), through a drive opening (10) provided in the inner sleeve (4), wherein, viewed in the axial direction of the inner sleeve (4),The actuation opening (10) is disposed between the locking recess (11) and the first end of the axial inner sleeve (4b), wherein the actuation section (7) of the release spring (6) can be pushed out of the receiving space (AR) when the insertion sleeve (3) is inserted into the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), through the insertion sleeve (3) in the radial direction, whereby the retaining section (8) of the release spring (6) can be detached from the retaining projection (9) of the inner sleeve (4) and a release force (FA), oriented in the direction of the second end of the axial inner sleeve (4b), is exerted by the release spring (6) on the displacement sleeve (5), through which the displacement sleeve (5) can be moved from the stationary position (PP) to the locked position (VP) and wherein a first guiding device (14) is provided in the displacement sleeve (5) to guide the locking element (12), which is designed in such a way that,When the displacement sleeve (5) moves from the stationary position (PP) to the locked position (VP), a first guiding force (FF1) is exerted on the locking element (12), through which the locking element (12) can be moved from the released position (FS) to the locked position (SS).

2. Plug connector, according to claim 1, characterized in that the displacement sleeve (5) can be manually displaced from the locked position (VP) back to the parked position (PP), preferably by means of a gripping section (15) provided on the outer circumferential surface (AU5), as a result of which a compression force directed against the release force (FA) can be transmitted to the release spring (6), as a result of which the retaining section Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, page.132 / 146 3 / 9 (8) can be brought back to the holding position (HP), wherein the first guiding device (14) of the displacement sleeve (5) is configured in such a way that, when the displacement sleeve (5) is moved from the locked position (VP) to the parked position (PP), a second guiding force (FF2) acts on the locking element (12), whereby the locking element (12) can be moved from the locked position (SS) to the released position (FS).

3. Plug connector, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the release spring (6) has an inwardly directed restoring force (FR), in the radial direction of the inner sleeve (4), in the region of the retaining section (8), through which the retaining section (8) locks into the retaining projection (9) when the retained position (HP) is reached and / or a restoring projection (23) is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the displacement sleeve (5), which is designed to exert an inwardly directed restoring force (FR), in the radial direction of the inner sleeve (4), when the displacement sleeve (5) is displaced from the locked position (VP) to the parked position (PP), on the release spring (6), through which the retaining section (8) of the release spring (6) locks into the retaining projection (9) when the retaining position (HP) is reached.

4. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the release spring (6) comprises a spring wire with a first free wire end (6a), a second free wire end (6b) and a central section (6c) situated between them, wherein the central section (6c) rests, at least in sections, against the outer circumferential surface (UA4) of the inner sleeve (4) and extends in the circumferential direction, preferably by an angle of at least 30°, preferably at least 45°, with particular preference at least 60°, in particular at least 90°, wherein the central section (6c) preferably has substantially D-shaped or substantially V-shaped.

5. Plug connector (1), according to claim 4, characterized in that a fixing section (17) is provided in the region of the first free wire end (6a), which is fixed to a fixing receptacle (18) disposed in the region of the first axial inner sleeve end (4a), on the outer circumferential surface (AU4) of the inner sleeve (4), and that the retaining section (8) is provided in the region of the second free wire end (6b).

6. Plug connector (1), according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by having a stop projection (16) on the inner circumferential surface (IU5) of the displacement sleeve (5), which is designed to form a stop for the second free wire end (6b) of the release spring (6) in the circumferential direction.

7. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking recess (11) is designed as a circumferential groove and extends in the circumferential direction of the inner sleeve (4), over a groove angle (α) of at least 30°, preferably at least 60°, with particular preference at least 90°, wherein the circumferential groove is preferably in a plane that is normal to the longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve (4).

8. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that an axial position of the locking recess (11) in the inner sleeve is fixed as a function of an axial position of the engagement opening (13) of the insertion sleeve (3) and / or an axial position of the actuation opening (10) in the inner sleeve (4) is fixed as a function of an axial position of a conical section (19) of the insertion sleeve (3).

9. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the first orientation device (14) of the displacement sleeve (5) comprises a first orientation link (14a) and a second orientation link (14b), which are arranged apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the displacement sleeve (5), on the inner circumferential surface (UI5) of the displacement sleeve (5), wherein the locking element (12) comprises a rod with a first free rod end and a second Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, page.134 / 146 5 / 9 opposite free rod end, wherein a first guidance section (12a) is provided in the region of the first end of the rod, which is force-guided into the first guidance link (14a), and a second guidance section (12b) is provided in the region of the second end of the rod, which is force-guided into the second guidance link (14b), and wherein the locking section (12c) is located between the free ends of the rod.

10. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the locking mechanism comprises at least two similar locking mechanisms, which are arranged in the plug connector (1) preferably diametrically opposite to each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of the inner sleeve (4).

11. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the connection section (V) of the first end of the axial inner sleeve (4a) comprises a number of locking recesses (20), which are designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding locking projections (21), provided in the first fluid line (2a), in order to form a positive connection in the axial and / or circumferential direction, and / or the connection section (V) of the first fluid line (4a) to the end of the axial inner sleeve (4A) comprises a number of locking projections (21), which are designed to cooperate with a number of corresponding locking recesses (20), provided in the first fluid line (2a), in order to form a positive connection in the axial and / or circumferential direction.

12. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that a second orientation device is provided for axially orienting the displacement sleeve (5) along the inner sleeve (4), wherein the second orientation device (22) preferably comprises at least one first orientation projection (22a) and at least one second orientation projection (22b), which are arranged apart from each other in the circumferential direction on the outer circumferential surface (AU4) of Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, p.135 / 146 6 / 9 inner sleeve (4) and comprises a guide rod (32), which is provided on the inner circumferential surface (IU5) of the displacement sleeve (5) and extends in the axial direction, at least over a portion of a length of the displacement sleeve (5), wherein the guide rod (32) is oriented in the circumferential direction, between the first guide projection (22a) and the second guide projection (22b).

13. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by having several positioning recesses (24) provided in the inner sleeve (4), which extend, respectively, from the second axial end of the inner sleeve (4b) over a part of the inner sleeve, in the direction of the first axial end of the inner sleeve (4a) and which, in each case, connect the inner circumferential surface (IU4) to the outer circumferential surface (AU4) of the inner sleeve (4), wherein the various positioning recesses (24) are designed to cooperate with various corresponding positioning projections (25) provided in the insertion sleeve (3), in order to position the insertion sleeve (3) in the coupling position, in the circumferential direction relative to the inner sleeve (4).

14. Plug connector (1), according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the plug connector (1) is characterized by having a display device (A) to indicate to a user whether the displacement sleeve (5) is in the locked position (VP) and the locking element (12) is in the locked position (SS).

15. Plug connector (1), according to claim 14, characterized in that the display equipment (A) comprises a number of signal tabs (26), which are arranged distributed in the circumference at the first end of the axial inner sleeve (4a), wherein a number of signal tabs (26) project beyond the first end of the axial inner sleeve (4a) in the axial direction, wherein the number of signal tabs (26) each comprises a signal surface (27), wherein, in the stationary position (PP) of the sleeve of Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, page.136 / 146 7 / 9 displacement (5), a first part of the signal surface is covered by the displacement sleeve (5) and, in the locked position (VP) of the displacement sleeve (5), a smaller part, in relation to the first part, of the signal surface (27) is covered by the displacement sleeve (5) or the signal surface (27) is completely exposed, wherein a machine-readable code, in particular a QR code, is preferably represented on at least one of the signal surfaces (27), which can be read by machine when the displacement sleeve (5) is in the locked position (VP).

16. Plug connector assembly characterized by comprising a plug connector (1), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 15, a first fluid line (2a), an insertion sleeve (3) and, preferably, a second fluid line (2b).

17. Plug connector assembly, according to claim 16, characterized in that the connecting section (V) of the inner sleeve (4) is connected to the first fluid line (2a), wherein the insertion sleeve (3) is positioned in the coupling position within the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), wherein the displacement sleeve (5) is in the locked position (VP) and at least one locking element (12) is in the locked position (SS) and is engaged with the engagement opening (13) of the insertion sleeve (3), wherein the second end of the axial insertion sleeve (3b) is connected to the second fluid line (2b).

18. Plug connector assembly, according to claim 17, characterized by a first circumferential projection (28) with a first annular front surface (28a) being provided on an inner circumferential surface of an end section of the first fluid line (2a) connected to the connection section (V) of the inner sleeve (4), facing the inner sleeve (4) in the axial direction, wherein a second circumferential projection (29) is provided on the inner circumferential surface (IU4) of the inner sleeve (4) with a second annular front surface (29a) facing the first fluid line (2a), wherein, viewed in the axial direction, a sealing gap (30) is formed between the first front surface. Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, page.137 / 146 8 / 9 annular (28a) and the second annular front surface (29a) and, viewed in the axial direction, is formed between the inner circumferential surface (IU2) of the end section of the first fluid line (2a) and an outer circumferential surface (AU3) of the insertion sleeve (3), in which a sealing element (31) is disposed.

19. Use of a plug connector (1), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 15, for connecting a first fluid line (2a) to a second fluid line (2b), characterized in that the connecting section (V) of the inner sleeve (4) of the plug connector (1) is connected to the first fluid line (2a) and the insertion sleeve (3) has the second end of the axial insertion sleeve (3b) connected to the second fluid line (2b), wherein the first end of the axial insertion sleeve (3a) of the insertion sleeve (3) is introduced from the receiving space (AR) of the inner sleeve (4), until the insertion sleeve is in the coupling position, wherein it is forced out of the receiving space (AR), through a conical section of the insertion sleeve (3), during the introduction of the retaining section (8) of the release spring (6) and released from the retained position of the retaining section (8), wherein a release force (FA) is exerted by the retaining section (8), after release,on the displacement sleeve (5), through which the displacement sleeve (5) is moved from the stationary position (PP) to the locked position (VP), wherein, during the movement of the displacement sleeve (5) from the stationary position (PP) to the locked position (VP), a first guiding force (FF1) is exerted on the locking element (12) by the first guiding device (14) of the displacement sleeve (5), through which the locking element (12) is positioned within the locking recess (11), from the released position (FS) to the locked position (SS), and wherein the locking section (12c) of the locking element (12) engages with an engagement opening (13) disposed in the insertion sleeve (3), so as to positively lock the insertion sleeve (3), in the axial direction, with the inner sleeve (4).

20. Use, according to claim 19, characterized by the displacement sleeve (5) being manually displaced from the locked position (VP) back to Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, page. 138 / 146 9 / 9 the stationary position (PP), preferably by means of a gripping section (15) provided on the outer circumferential surface (AU5), wherein, during displacement, a compression force directed against the release force (FA) is exerted on the retaining section (8) of the release spring (6) by the displacement sleeve (5), through which the retaining section (8) is brought back to the retained position (HP) and locked in the retaining projection (9), wherein, during the movement of the displacement sleeve (5) from the locked position (VP) to the stationary position (PP), a second guiding force (FF2) is exerted by the first guiding device (14) on the locking element (12),through which the locking element (12) is moved from the locked position (SS) back to the released position (FS), whereby the locking section (12c) of the locking element (12) releases the engagement opening (13) of the insertion sleeve (3), so as to release the positive locking. Petition 870250088850, dated 09 / 30 / 2025, pp. 139 / 146,

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