Connecting device with movable sleeve

Abstract

A connecting device (1) for connecting end sections of a pipe (T) is disclosed, comprising a cylindrical body (2) defining a passage (3); a retaining device (7) for securing the pipe end section in a sealed manner within the passage (3); and a sleeve (5) mounted within the passage (3) to move between a standby position, in which the sleeve (5) is spaced from a stop (3.2) recessed within the passage (3), and a recessed operating position, in which the sleeve (5) is pressed against the stop (3.2). The sleeve (5) comprises at least one leg (5.4) located downstream of the retaining device (7) with reference to the direction in which the end section of the pipe (T) is inserted into the body (2), the leg being arranged to resist movement of the sleeve (5) towards the operating position and being retracted by the end section of the pipe (T) when the sleeve (5) is engaged within a predetermined length in the end section of the pipe (T).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of fluid conveying circuits, in particular fluid conveying circuits, such as liquid brake circuits, in motor vehicles such as trucks. Background Art

[0002] It is known to connect a tube to another element of a pressurized fluid delivery circuit (e.g. another tube, a distributor, an actuator, a valve, etc.) by means of a connecting device, wherein the connecting device comprises a body defining a channel having a first section arranged to receive the end portion of the tube and a second section connected to the other element. Traditionally, the first section is internally provided with means for securing the tube end portion in the channel in a sealed manner. Such means generally include a fastening element such as a clamp, a grooved retaining ring or an internally toothed washer, and a sealing element such as an annular seal, which is compressed between the outer surface of the tube and the inner surface of the channel.

[0003] A leak in the connection can irreversibly lead to a pressure drop in the fluid circulating in the circuit, which can prove dangerous and lead to serious damage, in particular in the circuit of a vehicle brake system, where the pressure drop risks rendering the brake system inoperable.

[0004] It seems that the existence of leaks in the fluid conveying circuit is often due to incorrect assembly of the tube and the connecting device. In fact, it is common that the tube is not sufficiently press-fitted into the body of the connecting device so as to engage within the sealing element. The reason for the incorrect press-fit is that it is not easy to distinguish between the insertion of the tube into the fastening element, the insertion of the tube into the sealing element, and the final stop of the tube (assuming that one of them exists) during the press-fit process. To make matters worse, there are many types of connectors, which result in different forces being applied and give different sensations to the operator.

[0005] It would therefore be advantageous to achieve tube connection end control to ensure that the tube is sufficiently press-fit into the connector to ensure a tight seal of the connection.

[0006] One solution consists in making markings on the outer surface of the tube, which are hidden by the body of the connector when the tube is sufficiently press-fitted into the connector. This solution therefore assumes that the operator will think that the markings are made on the tube, but instead they will think that the tube is correctly connected when the tube is not sufficiently press-fitted into the body of the device to cooperate with the retaining means.

[0007] Purpose of the Invention

[0008] The present invention therefore aims to propose a connection device making it possible to at least partially overcome the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0009] To this end, the invention provides a device for connecting pipe end sections, comprising a cylindrical body defining a passage, a retaining device for sealingly securing the pipe end section within the passage, and a sleeve containing an end portion to be engaged in the pipe end section. According to the invention, the sleeve is mounted in the passage so as to slide between a standby position, in which the sleeve is spaced from a stop recessed in the passage, and a recessed operative position, in which the sleeve presses against the stop. The sleeve comprises at least one leg located downstream of the retaining device with respect to the direction of insertion of the pipe end section into the body, the leg being arranged to press against a protrusion of the passage when the sleeve is in the standby position and to oppose movement of the sleeve towards the operative position, and being covered by the pipe end section, the pipe end section causing the leg to retract when the sleeve is engaged in the pipe end section within a predetermined length.

[0010] Thus, under a recessing / insertion force applied by the operator, the tube engages the sleeve and covers the legs by folding back over them, causing the legs to retract from the sleeve. This retraction causes the sleeve to suddenly recess into the recessed operating position, indicating the end of the connection operation. Since the legs are located downstream of the retaining means, it is ensured that the tube end section is accurately engaged in the retaining means when the sleeve reaches the recessed operating position (the predetermined length corresponds to the recess depth of the tube T, sufficient for the latter to cooperate with the retaining means).

[0011] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention emerge on reading the following description of a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] With reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1a is a longitudinal sectional view of a connection device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing a waiting tube;

[0014] Figure 1b is a longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, at the beginning of the connecting pipe;

[0015] Figure 1c is a longitudinal sectional view of the connecting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, after the first recessed stroke (first interpolation stroke) of the tube;

[0016] Figure 1d is a longitudinal sectional view of the connecting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, after the second recessed stroke (second interpolation stroke) of the tube;

[0017] Figure 1eis a longitudinal sectional view of a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, at the end of the pipe connection;

[0018] Figure 1f is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connection device according to the first embodiment of the invention, after pressurization of the circuit;

[0019] Figure 2a is a partial view of a connection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, a waiting tube, embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a first sectional plane;

[0020] Figure 2b is a partial view of a connection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the waiting tube is embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a second sectional plane perpendicular to the first sectional plane;

[0021] Figure 3a is a partial view of a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention, at the end of the pipe connection, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a first sectional plane;

[0022] Figure 3b is a partial view of a connection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, at the end of the pipe connection, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane;

[0023] Figure 4a is a partial view of a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a first sectional plane, after pressurization of the circuit;

[0024] Figure 4b is a partial view of a connection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane, after pressurization of the circuit;

[0025] Figure 5a is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, a waiting tube, embodied as a perspective view;

[0026] Figure 5b is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, a waiting tube, embodied as a front view;

[0027] Figure 5c is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, a waiting tube, embodied as a side view;

[0028] Figure 6a is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, after connection of the pipes, embodied as a perspective view;

[0029] Figure 6bis a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, shown as a front view after connection of the pipes;

[0030] Figure 6c is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, shown as a side view after connection of the pipes;

[0031] Figure 7a is a detail of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, a waiting pipe, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a first sectional plane;

[0032] Figure 7b is a detail view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, the waiting pipe being embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane;

[0033] Figure 8a is a detail of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the invention, at the end of the connection of the pipes, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a first sectional plane;

[0034] Figure 8b is a detail of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the invention, at the end of the connection of the pipes, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane;

[0035] Figure 9a is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, a waiting tube, embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a first sectional plane;

[0036] Figure 9b is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, wherein the waiting tube is embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a second sectional plane perpendicular to the first sectional plane;

[0037] Figure 10a is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a first sectional plane at the beginning of the connection of the pipes;

[0038] Figure 10b is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane at the beginning of the connection of the pipes;

[0039] Figure 11a is a partial view of a connecting device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, which is embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a first sectional plane during the process of connecting pipes;

[0040] Figure 11bis a partial view of a connecting device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, which is embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a second sectional plane perpendicular to the first sectional plane during the process of connecting pipes;

[0041] Figure 12a is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, at the end of the connection of the pipes, embodied as a longitudinal sectional view according to a first sectional plane (a) and as a longitudinal sectional view according to a second sectional plane perpendicular to the first sectional plane;

[0042] Figure 12b is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, at the end of the connection of the pipes, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane;

[0043] Figure 13a is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the invention, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a first sectional plane, after pressurization of the circuit;

[0044] Figure 13b is a partial view of a connection device according to a third embodiment of the invention, embodied as a longitudinal section according to a second section plane perpendicular to the first section plane, after pressurization of the circuit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The invention is described in this context and applies to the connection of a tube T to a fluid transmitter and / or receiver element belonging to a fluid transport circuit not visible in the figures. The circuit element may be another tube, a distributor, a pump, a reservoir, an actuator such as a jack or a motor, or any other element of the fluid transport circuit.

[0046] With reference to FIG1 , and according to a first embodiment of the invention, the connection device, generally indicated by the reference numeral 1 , comprises a cylindrical body 2 axially divided into a connection section situated at the end section of the tube T and a connection section situated at the circuit element. The cylindrical body 2 defines a channel 3 comprising, in turn, an inlet section 3.1 connected via a counterbore 3.2 to a main section 3.3 intended to communicate with the channel of the circuit element.

[0047] A movable assembly, generally indicated by reference numeral 4, is mounted in the inlet section 3.1. The movable assembly 4 comprises a sleeve 5 and an insert 6 which receives a retaining device 7 for securing the end section of the tube in the channel 3 in a sealed manner.

[0048] The movable assembly 4 can be in the standby position ( Figure 1a 、 1b , 1c) and concave (interpolated) operating position ( Figure 1d 、1e , 1f), in the standby position, the sleeve 5 is separated from the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2, and the bottom forms a stop portion at the recessed / inserted part of the sleeve in the channel 3, and in the recessed operating position, the sleeve 5 is pressed against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2.

[0049] The sleeve 5 comprises an inner socket 5.1 connected to an outer socket 5.3 via a washer 5.2, said outer socket being coaxial with said inner socket 5.1. The washer 5.2 extends towards the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2.

[0050] The inner socket 5.1 has a first end adjacent to the free end of the insert 6 and a second end connected, in this case, to a washer 5.2. The second end of the inner socket 5.1 extends beyond the washer 5.2 with two legs 5.4, which are diametrically opposed and, when the movable assembly 4 is in the standby position, press against the bottom of the counterbore 3.2 to resist movement of the movable assembly 4 toward the operating position. More specifically, the legs 5.4 press against a chamfer provided in the bottom of the counterbore 3.2 around the outlet of the main section 3.3.

[0051] The external socket 5.3 includes:

[0052] a smaller diameter portion (slightly smaller than the diameter of the counterbore 3 . 2 ) connected to the end gasket 5 . 2 and bearing an annular seal 8 , which is radially elastically compressible to ensure sealing between the wall of the inlet section 3 . 1 of the channel 3 and the outer surface of the smaller diameter portion;

[0053] A larger diameter portion (slightly smaller than the diameter of the inlet section 3 . 1 ) is connected to the smaller diameter portion, engages in the end of the insert 6 opposite its free end, and is internally provided with an annular seal 9 which is radially elastically compressible to ensure sealing between the outer surface of the tube T and the inner surface of the larger diameter portion.

[0054] The insert 6 is internally provided with a shoulder 6.1 which, together with the free end of the outer socket 5.3, constrains a fastening gasket 10 (which is internally toothed), and a dustproof annular seal 11 (towards the free end of the inner socket 5.1) is blocked in the free end of the insert 6 to prevent dust from passing between the tube T and the inner surface of the insert 6.

[0055] The insert 6 is further provided on the outside with a groove 6.2 which receives an anchoring element 12 having an annular shape so that:

[0056] When the movable assembly 4 is in the standby position, the free end of the insert 6 and the anchoring element 12 extend parallel to the outside, projecting from the channel 3 ;

[0057] When the movable assembly 4 is in the operating position, the free end of the insert 6 is flush with the body 2 and the anchoring element 12 is fully received in the channel 3 .

[0058] The anchoring element 12 comprises:

[0059] a first outer step 12.1 arranged to be received in the first receptacle 3.11 of the inlet section 3.1 when the movable assembly 4 is in the standby position to resist withdrawal of the movable assembly 4 out of the passage 3; and

[0060] A second outer step 12.2, which is higher than the first outer step and is arranged upstream of the first outer step with reference to the direction of insertion of the tube T into the channel 3, is arranged to be received in the second housing 3.12 of the inlet section 2.1 when the movable assembly 4 is in the operating position, thereby resisting withdrawal of the movable assembly 4 out of the channel 3.

[0061] The anchoring element 12 is thus arranged to resist withdrawal of the insert out of the channel 3 in every position of the movable assembly 4 and thus of the sleeve 5 .

[0062] The anchoring element 12 is an annular grooved retaining ring that can be deformed in a rest state, in which the second step 12.2 has an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the second housing 3.12, and in a deformed state, in which the second step 12.2 has an inner diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the inlet section 3.1. The first step 12.1 and the second step 12.2 have a downstream surface (with reference to the direction of insertion of the tube T into the channel 3) that is inclined to promote the elastic deformation of the anchoring element 12 and the recessing / insertion of the movable element 4 in the channel 3, and an upstream surface (with reference to the direction of insertion of the tube T into the channel 3) that is radial or quasi-radial to resist the withdrawal of the movable component 4 from the channel 3 by cooperating with the corresponding conforming surfaces of the housings 3.11, 3.12.

[0063] Before any connection ( Figure 1a ), the movable assembly 4 is in the standby position and the anchoring element 12 partially protrudes from the channel 3, the first step 12.1 being received in the first housing 3.11.

[0064] At the start of the connection, the end section of the tube T is simultaneously engaged on the free end of the inner socket 5.1 and in the dust seal 11, the movable assembly 4 being held in the standby position by the legs 5.4 pressing against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 near the outlet of the main section 3.3.

[0065] The recessing force of the tube T is continued and the end section of the tube T passes into the fastening washer 10 and into the seal 9 ( Figure 1b ), the movable assembly 4 is held in the standby position by the legs 5.4 pressing against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2.

[0066] The recessing force of the tube T is continued, and the end sections of the tube T gradually cover the legs 5.4 by exerting on them a force having a radial component which will cause them to deform elastically so that they are folded back towards the central axis of the body 2 ( Figure 1c ) until the legs 5.4 are forced to fold back, wherein said legs thus avoid being pressed against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 and will return to the main section 3.3. Thus, by direct contact, the tubes fold the legs inwards and retract them relative to the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2. This folding back of the legs 5.4 causes the movable assembly 4 to move towards the operating position ( Figure 1d At the same time, the anchoring element 12 is elastically deformed by the steps 12.1, 12.2 sliding against the body 2 like a cam and is located between the housings 3.11 and 3.12. The movement of the movable assembly 4 is relatively sudden and stops when the sleeve 5 stops against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 ( Figure 1e ). The second step 12.2 thus reaches toward the second housing 3.12 and penetrates there under the elastic action of the anchoring element 12, which causes the second step 12.2 to flatten against the bottom of the second housing 3.12. It is understood that the legs 5.4 extend downstream from the retaining device 7 (i.e., downstream from the seal 9 and from the anchoring washer 10) with reference to the direction of insertion of the end section of the tube T into the body 2, and that the movable assembly 4, and therefore the sleeve 5, is only moved toward the operating position after the tube T section is in the correct connection position relative to the retaining device 7.

[0067] The sleeve 5 reaches the second recessed position and thus activates at least one connection control. In this first embodiment, there are multiple connection controls:

[0068] The sleeve 5 and the body 2 are made of such material that the arrival of the sleeve 5 stop against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3 . 2 (in the operating position) causes a sound constituting the connection control;

[0069] When the movable assembly 4 (and therefore the sleeve 5) is in the standby position, the anchoring element 12 extends so as to protrude from the body 2, and when the movable assembly 4 is in its operative position, said anchoring element is completely received in the body 2, so that the anchoring element 12 constitutes both a tactile and a visual connection control. The anchoring element 12 and the body 2 are preferably of contrasting colors to reinforce the visual signal constituted by the retraction of the anchoring element 12 in the body 2;

[0070] Due to the height of the second step 12.2 (greater than the depth of the second housing 3.12) and the elasticity of the anchoring element 12, when the movable element 4 reaches its operating position, the second outer step 12.2 hits the bottom of the second housing 3.12. The anchoring element 12 and the body 2 are made of such a material that the second outer step 12.2 abuts against the bottom of the second housing 3.12, causing a sound that constitutes a connection control.

[0071] After pressurizing the circuit, the tube T will move back slightly under the action of the fluid pressure, but will still be retained in the insert 6 by the tightening washer 10, while the insert 6 will be retained in the body 2 by the anchoring element 12. The groove 6.2 that receives the anchoring element 12 has an oblique downstream flank and a substantially radial upstream flank, the free edges of which define an opening wider than the bottom of the groove 6.2. The flank of the anchoring element 12 facing the groove 6.2 has downstream and upstream faces with slopes similar to the slopes of the flanks towards which they are positioned, so that when a withdrawal force is applied to the tube T, the cooperation of the downstream flank of the groove 6.2 with the downstream face of the anchoring element 12 tends to cause the anchoring element 12 to protrude out of the recess 6.2, thus strengthening the retention of the insert 6 in the channel 3.

[0072] Elements identical or similar to those described above will have the same reference numerals as those identical or similar elements in the following description of the second and third embodiments with reference to FIGS. 2 to 13 .

[0073] 2 to 4 , the connecting device 1 according to the second embodiment comprises: a body 2 , a sleeve 5 , an insert 6 , and seals 8 , 9 and 11 as described above.

[0074] This connection device has two main differences compared to the first embodiment:

[0075] The insert 6 is fixed and only the sleeve 5 can be moved between the same standby position and the operating position as described above;

[0076] The insert 6 has no connection controls, and only the sleeve 5 is provided with connection controls.

[0077] The outer socket 5.3 of the sleeve 5 is provided with two side arms 20 having free ends 21 provided with a protuberance. The side arms 20 are diametrically opposed to one another and are elastically deformable from a deformed state, in which the free ends are close to the inner socket 5.1, and from a rest state, in which the free ends are spaced apart from the inner socket 5.1.

[0078] The body 2 is provided with two orifices 23 which will receive the protuberances of the free end 21 when the sleeve 5 is in its operating position.

[0079] Subsequently, the internally toothed fastening washer 10 has been replaced by a grooved shackle 10 ′ which will grip the end section of the tube T, and the shoulder 6 . 1 has a frustoconical shape to help grip the shackle 10 ′ on the end section of the tube T when a withdrawal force is exerted on the tube T. The shackle 10 ′ is elastically deformable and comprises an inner protrusion to overlap the surface of the end section of the tube T.

[0080] Therefore, before any connection ( Figure 2a 、 Figure 2b ), the sleeve 5 is in the standby position and the arm 20 is held in the deformed state by the bulge of the free end 21 pressing against the wall of the inlet section 3 . 1 of the channel 3 .

[0081] As above, at the beginning of the connection, the end section of the tube T is simultaneously engaged on the free end of the inner socket 5.1 and in the dust seal 11, and the sleeve 5 is held in the standby position by the legs 5.4 pressing against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 near the outlet of the main section 3.3.

[0082] The recessing force of the tube T is continued and the end section of the tube T passes into the shackle 10' and into the seal 9, the sleeve 5 being held in the standby position by the legs 5.4 pressing against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2.

[0083] The concave force of the tube T is continued, and the end section of the tube T gradually covers the legs 5.4 and will elastically deform them to fold them back toward the central axis of the body 2, until the legs 5.4 are forced to avoid pressing against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 and thus return to the main section 3.3. This folding back of the legs 5.4 causes the sleeve 5 to move towards the operating position. The movement of the sleeve 5 is relatively sudden and when the sleeve 5 stops against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 ( Figure 3a and 3b ) stops. Simultaneously, the bulge of the free end 21 of the arm 20 reaches toward the orifice 23 and, under the action of the elasticity of the arm 20, penetrates therein. In doing so, the arm 20 returns to contact against the edge of the orifice 23. The free end 21 can thus be moved between a visible position, in which it is visible from the outside of the body 2, and a retracted position, in which it is hidden from the outside of the body 2.

[0084] As above, the reaching of the sleeve 5 to the second recessed operating position activates at least one connection control. In this second embodiment, there are multiple connection controls:

[0085] The sleeve 5 and the body 2 are made of such a material that the sleeve 5 reaches a stop against the bottom of the countersunk hole 32 (in the operating position) causing a sound constituting a sound connection control;

[0086] The ridge of the free end 21 is received in the orifice 23 and can be seen from the outside through the orifice 23 when the sleeve 5 is in the operating position, while it is not visible when the sleeve 5 is in the standby position. Thus, the ridge of the free end 21 constitutes a visual connection control. The arm 21 and the body 2 are preferably of contrasting colors to enhance the visual signal constituted by the appearance of the ridge in the orifice 23;

[0087] Due to the height of the protuberance of the free ends 21 of the arms 20 and the elasticity of the arms 20, when the sleeve 5 reaches its operating position, the arms 20 suddenly impact the wall of the end section 31 in the vicinity of their free ends 21. The arms 20 and the body 2 are made of such a material that the impact of the arms 20 against the wall of the inlet section 3.1 causes a sound that constitutes a sound connection control.

[0088] After pressurizing the circuit, the tube T will be slightly pulled back under the effect of the fluid pressure, but will drive the shackle 10' (which will slide against the frustoconical surface of the shoulder 6.11), increasing the grip of the grooved ring 10' on the tube T ( Figure 4a 、 4b ), and the insert 6 will resist the withdrawal of the tube T.

[0089] 5 to 13 , the connecting device 1 according to the third embodiment comprises: a body 2 , a sleeve 5 , an insert, and seals 8 , 9 as described above.

[0090] The connection device according to the third embodiment has two main differences with respect to the second embodiment:

[0091] The side arm 20 is replaced by a first axial wall 20 ′;

[0092] The dust seal 11 is replaced by a dust seal 11' having a different shape.

[0093] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the insert 6 ′ is fixed in the inlet of the channel 3 as in the second embodiment, but has a different structure from that of the second embodiment.

[0094] The outer socket 5.3 of the sleeve 5 has a free end, of which two first axial walls 20' (with free ends 21') are integral. The first axial arms 20' are diametrically opposed to one another and are located in the hole 6.4' by the insert 6', so that when the sleeve 5 is in the standby position (Figures 5 and 7), the free ends 21' of the first axial arms extend axially so as to project from the face 6.3' of the insert 6' through the opening 6.5', and when the sleeve 5 is in the operating position (Figures 6 and 8), the free ends of the first axial arms are retracted.

[0095] The free end of the outer socket 5.3 of the sleeve 5 is also provided with two second axial arms 30 with free ends 31. The second axial arms 30 are diametrically opposed to each other and are inserted between the first axial arms 20'. The second axial arms 30 are elastically deformable between a deformed state, in which the free ends 31 are close to the central axis of the outer socket 5.3, and a rest state, in which the free ends 31 are spaced apart from the central axis of the outer socket 5.3. The second axial arms 30, which are shorter than the first axial arms 20', are received in the axial guide tube 6.8' of the insert 6'. The second axial arms 30:

[0096] are held in their deformed state by the wall of the duct 6.8' of the insert 6' when the sleeve 5 is in its standby position (Figs. 5 and 7), and

[0097] In the operating position the sleeve 5 has its free ends 31 directed towards the orifice 6.9' leading into the duct 6.8' and the second axial arms 30 are elastically returned towards their rest state so that the free ends 31 project into said orifice 6.9' (Figs. 6 and 8).

[0098] The seal 11 ′ has the shape of a cap that covers the end of the body 2 into which the insert 6 ′ is inserted. The seal 11 ′ is pierced with a central opening for the passage of the tube T and the groove 11.1 ′ is vertically aligned with the opening 6.5 ′ and may comprise the edge of an annular portion sandwiching the side wall of the body 2 or may be overmolded on the insert 6 ′.

[0099] Thus, in any connection ( Figure 9a 、 9b ), the sleeve 5 is in the standby position and the free end 21 ′ of the arm 20 ′ protrudes through the opening 6 . 5 ′ and the slot 11 . 1 ′.

[0100] As above, at the beginning of the connection ( Figure 10a 、 10b ), the end section of the tube T is simultaneously engaged on the free end of the inner socket 5.1 and in the dust seal 11 ′, and the sleeve 5 is held in the standby position by the legs 5.4 pressing against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 near the outlet of the main section 3.3.

[0101] The concave force of the tube T is continued, the end section of the tube T passes into the shackle 10 ′ and the seal 9, and is pressed against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 by the leg 5.4 ( Figure 11a 、 11b ), the sleeve 5 is kept in the standby position.

[0102] The concave force of the tube T is continued, and the end section of the tube T gradually covers the legs 5.4 and elastically deforms them so that they are folded back toward the central axis of the body 2, until the legs 5.4 are forced to avoid being pressed against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 and thus return to the main section 3.3. This folding back of the legs 5.4 causes the sleeve 5 to move toward the operating position. The movement of the sleeve 5 is relatively sudden, and when the sleeve 5 stops against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3.2 ( Figure 12a and 12b )stop.

[0103] Simultaneously, when the free end 31 reaches the opening 6.9′, the free end 21′ of the arm 20′ is retracted and the groove 11.1′ is closed, so that the second axial arm 30 elastically returns to its rest position, striking the wall of the insert 6′ around the opening 6.9′. Note that the groove 11.1′ is defined by two lips that come into contact with each other when the end 21′ is retracted, which has two advantages: the dust seal 11′ prevents dust from entering through the opening 6.9′ and hides the end 21′ from full view. The free end 21′ can thus be moved between a visible position, in which it can be seen from the outside of the body 2, and a retracted position, in which it is hidden from the outside of the body 2.

[0104] As above, the arrival of the sleeve 5 in the second recessed position activates at least one connection control. In this third embodiment, there are multiple connection controls:

[0105] The sleeve 5 and the body 2 are made of such a material that the arrival of the sleeve 5 stop against the bottom of the countersunk hole 3 . 2 (in the operating position) causes a sound constituting the connection control;

[0106] When the sleeve 5 is in the standby position, the free end 21′ extends so as to protrude from the insert 6′ and from the dust seal 11′, and when the sleeve is in its operating position, said free end is completely received in the guide tube 6.4′, so that the first axial arm 20′ constitutes both a tactile and a visual connection control. The first axial arm 20′ and the dust seal 11′ are preferably of a contrasting color to emphasize the visual signal constituted by the retraction of the free end 21′ in the guide tube 6.4′;

[0107] Due to the elasticity of the second axial arms 30, when the sleeve 5 reaches its operating position, the second axial arms 30 strike the wall of the duct 6.8′ near the orifice 6.9′ near their free ends 31. The second axial arms 30 and the insert 6′ are made of such a material that the impact of the second axial arms 30 against the wall of the duct 6.8′ causes a sound constituting a sound connection control.

[0108] After pressurizing the circuit, the tube T will be slightly pulled back under the effect of the fluid pressure, but will be retained in the insert 6' by the shackle 10' as described above, which will slide against the frustoconical surface of the shoulder 6.1', increasing the grip of the shackle 10' on the tube T ( Figure 13a and 13b ).

[0109] Naturally, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described, but covers any variant coming within the ambit of the invention, for example as defined by the claims.

[0110] In particular, the cylindrical body may have a different structure than that described, as may the means for ensuring the sealing of the connection and the fixation of the tube ends. Thus, it is possible to have a momentary connection by means of a clamp, radial bolts or toothed washers, or a non-momentary connection by screwing, etc. A disconnection button may be provided, acting on the hook, thereby allowing the tube T to be withdrawn.

[0111] The retaining device may be supported by the insert or may be unsupported by the insert and translate integrally with the sleeve.

[0112] The insert may not translate integrally with the sleeve.

[0113] The anchoring element of the insert may be arranged to resist withdrawal of the insert out of the channel in only one position of the sleeve. There may be one anchoring element in each position.

[0114] The sleeve 5 may comprise one or more legs 5.4. The leg(s) may have shapes and / or structures different from those described.

[0115] The legs 5.4 are arranged to press against a projection of the channel 2 when the sleeve 5 is in the standby position, thereby resisting movement of the sleeve 5 towards the operative position. The projection may be formed by a stop when the sleeve 5 is recessed in the channel 2 beyond the operative position, or by a projection separate from the stop.

Claims

1. A device (1) for connecting end sections of a pipe (T), comprising: a cylindrical body (2), said cylindrical body defining a passage (3), a holding device (7) for securing the tube end section in the channel (3) in a sealed manner, and A sleeve (5) comprising an end portion to be engaged in the end section of the tube (T) is characterized in that The sleeve (5) is mounted in the channel (3) to slide between a standby position and a recessed operating position, in which the sleeve (5) is spaced from its stop (3.2) recessed in the channel (3), in which the sleeve (5) is pressed against the stop (3.2), and the sleeve (5) comprises at least one leg (5.4) located downstream with reference to the direction in which the end section of the tube (T) is inserted into the body (2), the leg being arranged to press against a protrusion of the channel when the sleeve (5) is in the standby position and to resist movement of the sleeve (5) towards the operating position, and being covered by the end section of the tube (T) causing the leg (5.4) to be retracted when the sleeve (5) is engaged within a predetermined length in the end section of the tube (T).

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The device is arranged so that the sleeve (5) is brought into the recessed operating position to activate the connection control.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that The sleeve (5) and the body (2) are made of such materials that the arrival of the sleeve (5) stop against its recessed operating position causes the sound constituting the connection control.

4. The device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that The retaining means (7) are supported by an insert (6) which translates integrally with the sleeve (5) to form a movable assembly (4).

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that The insert (6) is provided with an anchoring element (12) on the outside, which, in at least one position of the movable component (4) within the channel (3), resists withdrawal of the insert (6) out of the channel (3).

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that The anchoring element (12) is arranged to resist withdrawal of the insert (6) out of the channel (3) in each position of the movable assembly (4).

7. The device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that When the sleeve (5) is in the standby position, the anchoring element (12) extends to protrude from the body (2), and when the sleeve (5) is in its recessed operating position, the anchoring element is fully received within the channel (3) so that the anchoring element (12) constitutes a connection control.

8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that The anchoring element (12) and the body (2) have contrasting colors.

9. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that The anchoring element (12) is received in a groove (6.2) provided in the insert (6) and having an inclined downstream flank, and the anchoring element (12) has a downstream face facing the downstream flank of the groove (6.2), the downstream face having a slope similar to that of the downstream flank, so that when a withdrawal force is exerted on the tube (T), the cooperation of the downstream flank of the groove (6.2) and the downstream face of the anchoring element (12) causes the anchoring element (12) to protrude outside the groove (6.2).

10. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that The anchoring element (12) is received in a groove (6.2) provided in the insert (6) and having an inclined downstream flank, and the anchoring element (12) has a downstream face facing the downstream flank of the groove (6.2), the downstream face having a slope similar to that of the downstream flank, so that when a withdrawal force is exerted on the tube (T), the cooperation of the downstream flank of the groove (6.2) and the downstream face of the anchoring element (12) causes the anchoring element (12) to protrude outside the groove (6.2).

11. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that The anchoring element (12) is received in a groove (6.2) provided in the insert (6) and having an inclined downstream flank, and the anchoring element (12) has a downstream face facing the downstream flank of the groove (6.2), the downstream face having a slope similar to that of the downstream flank, so that when a withdrawal force is exerted on the tube (T), the cooperation of the downstream flank of the groove (6.2) and the downstream face of the anchoring element (12) causes the anchoring element (12) to protrude outside the groove (6.2).

12. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that The anchoring element (12) is received in a groove (6.2) provided in the insert (6) and having an inclined downstream flank, and the anchoring element (12) has a downstream face facing the downstream flank of the groove (6.2), the downstream face having a slope similar to that of the downstream flank, so that when a withdrawal force is exerted on the tube (T), the cooperation of the downstream flank of the groove (6.2) and the downstream face of the anchoring element (12) causes the anchoring element (12) to protrude outside the groove (6.2).

13. The device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that The retaining device (7) is supported by an insert (6') mounted and fixed in the channel (3), and the sleeve (5) supports at least one arm (20, 20'), the arm having an end (21, 21') that is visible from the outside of the body (2) for one of the positions of the sleeve (5) and that is not visible from the outside of the body (2) for the other of the positions of the sleeve (5).

14. The device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that The channel (3) comprises a countersunk hole (3.2), and in the standby position the sleeve (5) is spaced from the bottom of the countersunk hole (3.2), said bottom forming a stop (3.2) in the channel (3) where it is recessed.

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