Connection device for pipes provided with ribs on the circumference

Abstract

A connection device for a pipe (4) provided with ribs on the circumference has a pipe receptacle (1) with a receptacle opening for accommodating one end of the pipe (4) and at least one locking element (3) for fixing the pipe (4) in the pipe receptacle (1). The pipe receptacle (1) has a longitudinal middle plane (M) which runs through the receptacle opening. The locking element (3) has a first portion (S1) which allows movement of at least a portion of the locking element relative to the pipe receptacle (1) and a second portion (S2) which is configured for engaging into a corrugation groove (41) of the pipe (4) provided with ribs on the circumference. The first portion (S1) is closer to the longitudinal middle plane (M) than the second portion (S2) at least when the pipe (4) is introduced and fixed. The connection device according to the invention enables simple, sealed and secure fixing of the pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting device for a pipe having ribs on its circumference, the connecting device being particularly used for connecting or linking ventilation pipes. Background Technology

[0002] Pipes with ribs around their circumference, especially corrugated pipes, are used, for example, as protective conduits for cables, or as pipes with smaller diameters, or as transporters of liquids and gases. These pipes are particularly suitable for use in ventilation systems, such as building ventilation systems.

[0003] Particularly relevant to ventilation equipment is that pipe connections must be sufficiently sealed so that the energy demand of the ventilation system does not increase due to leakage, thus avoiding whistling noise. Furthermore, concrete water must not enter the ventilation ducts when concrete is poured on-site. This should be ensured on-site when the pipe connections may be subjected to stress, especially tensile stress, so that the connections already joined during construction do not loosen and become unsealed again.

[0004] The term "corrugated pipe" herein specifically includes both metal hoses and plastic hoses. Such plastic hoses are also referred to in part as "corrugated hoses" in this art. The circumferential ribs are formed differently depending on the embodiment. Preferably, the circumferential ribs are configured as single ribs, preferably with equal spacing, or the circumferential ribs form a cylindrical helix. The term "pipe with ribs on its circumference" as used herein refers to such corrugated pipes and also to pipes having other types of ribs on their outer side and corrugated grooves between the ribs.

[0005] For connecting two pipes or for connecting a pipe to a connecting segment, a connecting device is required, preferably one that enables a simple, quick, and safe connection.

[0006] DE 39 03 353 A1 discloses a connecting fitting for a bellows having a sleeve for receiving the end of the bellows and having a deflectable spring extending along the axis of the fitting, the spring engaging in a bellows groove of the bellows.

[0007] DE 94 00 905.8U1 discloses a quick-connect device for corrugated flexible conduit used as a protective conduit for electrical conductors. The device has a resiliently deformable locking unit inclined to the longitudinal axis. The connection can be released by means of an opening unit that can be introduced between the corrugated conduit and the locking unit.

[0008] WO 02 / 02983 describes a connecting fitting for a bellows, the connecting fitting having a retaining sleeve into which the pipe can be inserted, and having a retaining ring that is first elastically widened when the pipe is pushed in radially and then locked into the bellows groove of the pipe.

[0009] DE 202 10 654U1 illustrates a sleeve between a pipe and a connecting section, wherein the sleeve engages in a corrugated groove of the pipe and connects to or similarly engages in a groove therewith. In the region of the sleeve, at least one sealing ring is provided in another corrugated groove of the pipe.

[0010] DE 0 086 900 A1 discloses a connector for an insulating tube with ribs on its circumference, the connector having a sealing ring, a wall recess, and a fastening spring having inwardly extending transverse ribs. When the insulating tube is inserted into the connector, the sealing ring is compressed axially until the transverse ribs are radially flush with the two corrugated grooves of the insulating tube. The fastening spring can then be locked into the wall recess by pressing with a finger, thereby securing the insulating tube in the connector.

[0011] The connecting device partially lacks a sealing device, making it unsuitable for use with ventilation ducts. Furthermore, the connecting device is relatively complex in construction or cannot be easily operated, thus making it unsuitable for use on construction sites. Additionally, the connecting device provides almost no adequate pull-out protection. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a connecting device that eliminates the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0013] The objective is achieved by a connecting device having the features of claim 1.

[0014] A connecting device according to the invention for a circumferentially ribbed tube comprises: a tube receiving portion having a receiving opening for receiving one end of the tube; and at least one locking element for securing the tube in the tube receiving portion. The tube receiving portion has a longitudinal intermediate plane extending through the receiving opening. The locking element has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion allowing at least a portion of the locking element to move relative to the tube receiving portion, and the second portion being configured to engage with a corrugated groove in the circumferentially ribbed tube. The first portion is closer to the longitudinal intermediate plane than the second portion, at least when the tube is introduced and secured.

[0015] The locking element is preferably connected to, held in, or supported on the tube receptacle at its first portion. However, in other embodiments, the first portion is separate from the portion of the locking element that is connected to, held in, or supported on the tube receptacle.

[0016] The movement is preferably pivoting. Other types of movement, such as traversal or a combination of traversal and pivoting, are also possible.

[0017] The first part preferably defines the pivot point or pivot axis of the locking element. The pivotability, according to the embodiment, preferably includes some angles or the pivotability corresponds only to small, elastic movements of the pivotable portion of the locking element. The longitudinal intermediate axis of the device preferably extends in a longitudinal intermediate plane.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the locking element engages into exactly one corrugated groove. In other embodiments, the locking element is configured such that it engages into two or more corrugated grooves. Depending on the embodiment, engagement may occur simultaneously or sequentially.

[0019] When tension is applied to the bellows, the arrangement of the first and second portions according to the invention enhances the retaining force. Pull-out protection is strengthened. Furthermore, the self-enhanced retaining force eliminates the need for further tightening of locking elements. This also simplifies the device and simplifies installation.

[0020] Furthermore, this arrangement allows for a simple, robust, and low-cost design of the connection device. It eliminates the need for complex recesses or one-piece molded fastening springs.

[0021] This configuration also allows for simple pipe installation, thus simplifying operation. This can be implemented in a way that simply inserts the pipe and it is automatically gripped and secured by the locking element, without the need for manual tightening of fastening springs or other fixing mechanisms. This improves quality assurance on the construction site.

[0022] It can also improve quality assurance during installation, as the optical display, when present, allows for inspection of whether the tube is correctly introduced and secured into the tube receptacle and / or whether a seal has been properly created between the tube and the tube receptacle.

[0023] Depending on the implementation method and application area, only a single locking element exists. This locking element may engage on only one side of the tube or on multiple sides. In other implementations, two or more locking elements are present.

[0024] The tube receiving portion is preferably made of plastic. However, embodiments made of metal or other materials are also possible. The shape of the receiving opening of the tube receiving portion matches the external shape of the tube to be received. In particular, the receiving opening is circular, elliptical, or rectangular with rounded short sides. Thus, the device is particularly suitable for receiving round or flat tubes, depending on the shape.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the second portion has a longitudinal extension that extends parallel to the longitudinal mid-plane and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the tube receiving portion. This arrangement is particularly suitable for clamp-like locking elements.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the locking element is an arc-shaped clamp having two side legs, a tab connecting the two side legs, and two fixed legs. The two fixed legs together form a first portion, and the tab forms a second portion.

[0027] The bow-shaped clip can be manufactured and secured at low cost. The bow-shaped clip also allows for automatic locking into the corrugated groove of the tube. The clip can be made of, for example, plastic or metal. Preferably, the clip is a single piece. In one embodiment, the clip is a separate component that is releasably or securely connected to the tube receiving portion. In other embodiments, the clip is integrally formed with the tube receiving portion.

[0028] In one embodiment, the two fixed legs terminate freely and the two fixed legs form a first part in their hypothetical connection.

[0029] Such a single clamp is sufficient for securing the tube. However, preferably, two clamps are positioned at two circumferentially opposite locations on the tube receiving portion. Thus, when the tube is introduced, the clamps engage in corrugated grooves at the two opposite locations, thereby securing the tube from both sides. If the clamps are identically constructed and positioned at the same axial height of the tube receiving portion, they engage in the same corrugated groove. In other embodiments, one clamp is constructed longer and positioned higher about the longitudinal axis of the tube receiving portion, such that the clamp engages in the other corrugated groove. In a preferred embodiment, the two clamps are two separate components. In other embodiments, the two clamps form a common, preferably one-piece component.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, two locking elements are provided on two opposite sides of the circumference of the tube receptacle. The fixing leg of one locking element is connected to the fixing leg of the other locking element via a connecting leg, such that the two locking elements constitute a single, one-piece component. The two additional fixing legs of the two locking elements preferably transition to freely terminating connecting legs. Due to the free connecting legs, the component, i.e., the clamps on both sides, can be more easily installed onto or into the tube receptacle.

[0031] Preferably, the locking element is elastically held in the tube receiving portion. Thus, the locking element automatically engages with the corrugated groove and can preferably also disengage from the corrugated groove, allowing the tube to be pulled out of the tube receiving portion.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the locking element extends out of the tube receiving portion in the region of the second part. This ensures reliable engagement with the corrugated groove, and the tube receiving portion can be configured to have a simple shape for manufacturing purposes. This also reduces manufacturing costs. In a simple embodiment, the tube receiving portion is substantially cylindrical and has a uniform length.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the tube receiving portion has at least one notch on its circumference, into which the locking element extends its second portion. This results in one or more upwardly projecting sidewalls that extend beyond the region of the locking element beyond the second portion of the locking element. These projecting sidewalls form an introduction aid and enhance protection of the tube in the connection area. An introduction aid is further enhanced when the upper end of the projecting sidewall is provided with an outwardly inclined flange or is otherwise widened outward at its free end.

[0034] The clip-shaped locking element is preferably configured and arranged such that the locking element slightly opens when the tube is inserted into the tube receiving portion and generates a self-reinforcing retaining force when a pulling force is applied to the inserted tube.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, a sealing device is provided within the tube receptacle for axially contacting the end of the tube. Preferably, the sealing device forms a self-closing ring. The shape of the ring preferably corresponds to the shape of the tube to be accommodated. In particular, the ring is circular, elliptical, or rectangular with rounded short sides. Preferably, the sealing device is made of a soft material, especially a foam material. Closed porous or partially closed porous foam materials are preferred. Preferably, the sealing device has a color different from that of the tube receptacle, at least on its outer surface. Preferably, the color is bright, such as red, yellow, pink, or orange.

[0036] Due to the sealing device, the connection device can be preferably used for ventilation ducts, especially for central or decentralized building ventilation systems.

[0037] The sealing device is preferably compressible in the axial direction when the tube is introduced. Therefore, the sealing device is preferably freely disposed within the tube housing, i.e., not bonded or welded to the tube housing, or the sealing device is fixed to the tube housing only on its lower end side opposite to the tube's introduction direction, for example, by bonding or clamping. Preferably, the sealing device rests against the inner wall of the tube housing.

[0038] According to the embodiment, the sealing device can be secured by a locking mechanism to prevent it from falling out during transport. This is especially true when the locking mechanism is configured as an arc-shaped clamp, and preferably when the tube receptacle has a notch into which the clamp extends. This transport protection of the sealing device allows for the pre-assembly of the tube receptacle and the sealing device at the factory. This prevents forgetting to install the sealing device on the construction site or failing to use a matching sealing element.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the tube receptacle forms at least one channel to the sealing device. This allows for inspection before the tube is fully installed to determine whether a sealing device is present. Preferably, the visible channel is formed by a notch. If the sealing device is made of a different color than the tube receptacle, it can be seen very easily and quickly.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, at least one visible channel is partially or completely covered by the tube when it is correctly and fully introduced and secured. This allows for checking whether the tube is fully introduced, thus ensuring a seal. If the tube is not adequately introduced or secured, the sealing device remains at least partially visible. In other embodiments, the introduced tube only partially covers the sealing device, such that its presence is still visible when the tube is introduced. Checking whether the tube has been introduced sufficiently can be achieved, for example, by using a two-tone sealing device or by marking. The visible channel improves quality assurance on the construction site.

[0041] Another objective of this invention is to improve quality assurance during pipe connection, especially on-site.

[0042] The objective is achieved by a pipe connection device having the features of claim 15.

[0043] The pipe connection device according to the invention comprises: a pipe receiving portion having a receiving opening for receiving one end of the pipe; at least one fixing element for securing the pipe in the pipe receiving portion; and a sealing device. The pipe receiving portion can realize at least one first optical indication with respect to the sealing device before the pipe is introduced, and the pipe receiving portion can realize at least one second optical indication, different from the first optical indication, when the pipe is properly and completely introduced and secured.

[0044] The device is claimed as a separate invention. The device can preferably be configured as described above. Therefore, the above description in the "Summary of the Invention" section also relates to the device, wherein the fixing element is not necessarily a locking element and does not necessarily need to be arranged as in claim 1 regarding the tube receiving portion or the tube. The tube is preferably a corrugated tube. However, a connection device for other tubes, such as tubes with a smooth outer surface, can also be configured according to the invention. Therefore, the features of the dependent claims can also be combined with those of claim 15 without the features of claim 1.

[0045] Optical indicators can be configured, as in the examples above, such that the sealing device is initially visible and then becomes only partially visible or completely invisible. For example, two windows or notches can be configured, arranged sequentially along the direction of tube introduction. Before the tube is introduced, the sealing device is visible in both windows; after the tube is introduced, the sealing device is visible in only one window. In this way, there is not only monitoring of whether the tube is correctly introduced, but also monitoring of whether the sealing device is present. In other embodiments, a first optical indicator shows the sealing device, while a second optical indicator shows the position of the bellows. These optical indicators can be provided through a single window or through two separate windows. The term "window" is understood herein to refer to a notch, opening, or transparent surface that provides observation of the connecting device. The window need not be enclosed by a frame.

[0046] The connecting device according to the two inventions can be formed in different variations for different application areas. For example, the connecting device can be configured to connect two pipes. The connecting device can be used to connect a pipe to a pipe having a molded part or to connect a pipe to a distributor, inlet, outlet, fitting, or other components. The connection can be made in a straight line or the connecting device can enable the turning and / or branching of the pipeline formed by the pipe. Accordingly, the receiving opening is configured, for example, as a through opening or as a branch.

[0047] Other embodiments are described in the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be limiting. The drawings show:

[0049] Figure 1 A first perspective view of the connecting device according to the invention according to a first embodiment is shown;

[0050] Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A second perspective view of the connecting device;

[0051] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 1 First side view of the connecting device;

[0052] Figure 4 Showing according to Figure 1 The second side view of the connecting device;

[0053] Figure 5 The following is shown before installing the bellows: Figure 1 Side view of the connecting device;

[0054] Figure 6 The following is shown during the installation of the bellows: Figure 1 Side view of the connecting device;

[0055] Figure 7 The diagram shows the installation of the bellows after completion. Figure 1 Side view of the connecting device;

[0056] Figure 8 A first perspective view of the connecting device according to the invention according to a second embodiment is shown;

[0057] Figure 9 Showing according to Figure 8 A second perspective view of the connecting device;

[0058] Figure 10 Showing according to Figure 8 First side view of the connecting device;

[0059] Figure 11 Showing according to Figure 8 The second side view of the connecting device;

[0060] Figure 12 The following is shown before installing the bellows: Figure 8 Side view of the connecting device;

[0061] Figure 13 The following is shown during the installation of the bellows: Figure 8 Side view of the connecting device;

[0062] Figure 14 The diagram shows the installation of the bellows after completion. Figure 8 Side view of the connecting device;

[0063] Figure 15 A perspective view of two locking elements of the connecting device according to the invention in the first embodiment is shown;

[0064] Figure 16 A perspective view of the locking element of the connection device according to the invention in the second embodiment is shown;

[0065] Figure 17 A perspective view of the locking element of the connecting device according to the invention in the third embodiment is shown; and

[0066] Figure 18 A perspective view of the locking element of the connection device according to the invention in the fourth embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0067] exist Figures 1 to 7 The diagram illustrates a first embodiment of a connecting device according to the invention. The connecting device has a tube receiving portion 1, which is preferably made of plastic. The tube receiving portion 1 has a generally cylindrical base 10 surrounding a receiving opening through which an opening 16 passes. In this example, the base 10 is generally cylindrical. The corrugated pipe 4 to be received is a circular pipe.

[0068] The base 10 has at least one of two recesses 12 on its circumference. The two recesses 12 are surrounded on both sides by wall portions, which thereby form raised sidewalls. The raised sidewalls transition into outwardly inclined flanges 11, which form an introduction aid for the bellows 4 to be introduced.

[0069] A bottom 13 is provided at the opposite end of the tube receiving portion 1, the bottom being separated from the base 10 by a partially or completely surrounding groove 14. Depending on the intended application of the connecting device, additional elements are provided. If the connecting device is used, for example, to connect two tubes, the bottom 13 is connected to a second tube receiving portion similarly or identically constructed, which can accommodate the second tube. The common through-hole 16 is straight, angled, or curved depending on the connection type. A distribution element may also be provided between the bottom 13 and the second tube receiving portion, allowing two or more tubes to extend, thus forming a common component with the first tube receiving portion. Furthermore, the bottom can be fixedly connected to or releasably fixed to an inlet, outlet, or fitting.

[0070] A sealing device 2 is provided in the tube receiving portion 1. The sealing device is hollow cylindrical and preferably positioned on the lower edge formed by the bottom 13. Preferably, the sealing device 2 rests against the inner wall of the through opening 16; however, it is preferable that at least its outer surface is not fixedly connected to the tube receiving portion 1. The sealing device 2 has an upward-pointing flat end face 20. The sealing device 2 extends beyond the lower edge 120 of the recess 12; however, it is preferable that it is not as high as the two protruding sides with flanges 11. The tube receiving portion 1 is preferably provided with a nameplate 17 or other type of label.

[0071] The sealing device 2 is preferably made of a soft, compressible material, especially foam. The sealing device is preferably a different color from the tube housing 1.

[0072] The connecting device according to the invention has at least one locking element, which is in the form of an arc-shaped clip 3. In this example, there are two clips 3, which are in... Figure 15 The clip is shown in the figure. The clip is preferably made of metal or plastic. Preferably, the clip is constructed in one piece, and more preferably in the form of a bent rod. Each clip 3 has two side legs 30, a tab 31 connecting the side legs 30, and two freely terminating fixing legs 32. In this example, the clip 3 is constructed as a flat plane, wherein the fixing legs 32 preferably extend parallel to the tab 31. However, alternative configurations are feasible. Preferably, the various sections of the clip 3 are constructed in a straight line. In other embodiments, the sections are bent. In particular, the side legs 30 are bent so that they fit snugly against the outer contour of the tube receiving portion 1. Alternatively or additionally, the tab 31 is bent along the installation direction of the tube so that, when a load is introduced into the tube, preferably more load along the longitudinal central axis of the tube is eliminated compared to that at the edge of the tube. Furthermore, this configuration resists upward bending of the tab 31.

[0073] The clip 3 is connected to the tube receiving portion 1. Depending on the embodiment, the clip is pivotally held, elastically held, fixedly connected, or one-piece molded onto the tube receiving portion 1 in the bow-shaped member receiving portion 15. In the case of a fixed connection or one-piece molding, the bow-shaped member is configured such that it allows at least a small, flexible pivoting movement of the side leg 30 relative to the fixedly held fixed leg 32. Thus, the tab 31 and the side leg 30 form a pivotable portion of the locking element at part S1.

[0074] In this example, the retaining leg 32 is held in the slot 14, as in Figures 1 to 4 Clearly visible in the image. The fixed legs are, according to the embodiment, glued, welded, locked, inserted, or pivotally and / or elastically held in the respective support device.

[0075] Each clip 3 is connected to the tube receiving portion 1 such that the connecting piece 31 is located within the receiving portion. Here, the connecting piece extends into the virtual outer circumference of the tube receiving portion 1. Preferably, the connecting piece extends beyond the upper end face 20 of the sealing device 2.

[0076] Especially in Figure 1 and 4 As can be clearly seen, the portion where the clamp 3 connects to the tube receiving portion 1 is closer to the longitudinal mid-plane M of the tube receiving portion 1 than the connecting piece 31, and the side leg can pivot around this portion. Figure 4 In the diagram, the vertical mid-plane M is perpendicular to the drawing plane. Figure 3 In this context, the vertical intermediate plane is located within the drawing plane. Figure 3 The longitudinal axis L is shown in the diagram. The connecting portion is referred to herein as the first portion S1. The tab 31 defines the second portion S2, the significance of which will be described later. If there are two clips 3 or a clip on both sides having two tabs 31, the longitudinal midplane M is preferably centered between the two clips 3 or between the two tabs 31. Preferably, the angle between the longitudinal midplane M and the side leg 30 is between 20° and 45°, particularly approximately 35°.

[0077] exist Figures 5 to 7 The diagram illustrates how the bellows 4 can be connected to the connection device according to the invention. Figure 5 The image shows the state before installation. The sealing device 2 is clearly visible. The bellows 4 has ribs 40 and bellows grooves 41.

[0078] exist Figure 6The bellows 4 is now inserted into the pipe receiving portion 1 and the sealing device 2. The clamp 3 is preferably restricted in its position about the longitudinal intermediate axis L and about the longitudinal intermediate plane M, wherein the clamp rests against the side wall of the recess 12, i.e., the window. This ensures that the clamp 3 is always outside the inner diameter of the pipe 4 and that the rib 40 can firmly press the clamp 3. As the bellows 4 is further pushed in, the end face of the bellows 4, or at least the foremost rib 40, rests on the upper end face 20 of the sealing device. The end face is typically a cross-section. The cross-section can be configured differently. Typically, the cross-section is not flat and is not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pipe. The sealing device 20 is compressed in the axial direction L as the bellows 4 is further pushed in. The clip 3 is pressed outward by the rib 40, i.e., the side leg 30 pivots around the hinge portion, i.e., the first portion S1, and the rib 40 slides downward toward the bottom 13 on the tab 31 until the tube 4 can no longer be pushed in due to the maximum compression of the sealing device 2 or the stop provided inside the tube receiving portion 1. Preferably, in the end position, the sealing device 2 is compressed so that it is no longer visible in the recess 12. Thus, the recess forms a window or optical display or visible channel through which the connecting device and the bellows 4 are properly connected. In this position, the tab 31, i.e., the second portion S2, is located in the bellows groove 41 and holds the tube 4 in this position. The tube 4 can no longer be pulled out. The special arrangement of the first and second portions S2 about the longitudinal intermediate axis M enhances the holding effect under tension on the tube 4. However, the clip 3 can be easily detached from the bellows groove 41 by means of a simple tool, such as a screwdriver or a stick, and the tube can be removed again.

[0079] If the splice 31 is not placed in the corrugated groove 41 when the tube 4 is introduced, the sealing device 2, after being released by the assembler, presses the tube 4 in the opposite direction of installation until the splice 31 can engage in the next corrugated groove 41. Preferably, the device is configured such that the seal continues to be maintained and the sealing device 2 is not yet visible in the window within the recess 12. Thus, the installation continues to meet the preset requirements and is accordingly correct.

[0080] exist Figures 8 to 14The second embodiment is shown. Identical components are given the same reference numerals and are not described in detail again. The connecting device is adapted for connection with a flat bellows 4. The base 10 is also constructed as a hollow cylinder. However, it now has an elongated basic shape with two flat sidewalls 100 arranged parallel to each other and two outwardly curved sidewalls 101 opposite to each other. Each clip 3 is disposed in the region between the two curved sidewalls 101. The two curved sidewalls 101 have corresponding notches 12, which are also extended by the sealing device 2. The notches 12 also serve as visible channels for monitoring proper fitting. The tabs 31 of the clips 3 also extend into the notches 12 and preferably extend out of the sealing device 2. However, the tabs 31 are preferably located below the uppermost edge of the tube receiving portion 1. Figure 10 In the middle, the vertical mid-plane M extends perpendicularly to the drawing plane. Figure 11 In this context, the vertical intermediate plane is located within the drawing plane. Figure 11 The vertical axis L is shown in the figure.

[0081] In other embodiments, regardless of the shape of the tube receptacle, there is no notch and / or tab 31 extending beyond the uppermost edge of the tube receptacle 1. In particular, in the last mentioned case, there is no need for a recess or notch 12 in the tube receptacle 1 to apply the inventive teaching. For example, it is also sufficient that the tab 31 is bent inward so that it can engage with the corrugated groove 41 of the introduced tube 4.

[0082] The clip 3 can have extremely different shapes. The clip can, for example, be in... Figures 16 to 18 As shown, it can also be configured as a double clip, for example. According to... Figure 16 In this embodiment, there are two pairs of side legs 30, each having a connecting piece 31 that connects the side legs. The two pairs of side legs 30 preferably form an angle between 40° and 90°, preferably approximately 70°. The fixed legs 32 adjacent to the side legs 30 are bent toward each other so that they no longer extend parallel to the connecting piece 31. Alternatively, the fixed legs are parallel to the connecting piece 31. A free end of one of the fixed legs 32 of the first pair is connected to one of the fixed legs 32 of the second pair by means of a first connecting leg 33. Second connecting legs 33' are also provided on the other two fixed legs 32 of these pairs. However, the second connecting legs 33' are not connected to each other, but rather abut against each other or stacked one on top of the other. Thus, the clip 13 can be more easily pushed into the slot 14 and connected to the tube receiving portion 1. Figure 16 In the middle, the connecting legs 33 and 33' are curved. However, the connecting legs can also be straight.

[0083] The curved configuration of the connecting legs 33, 33' and / or the side legs 30 has the advantage that the clamps better match the contour of the tube receiving portion 1. This results in less structural space being required and the load being better transferred into the tube receiving portion 1. The straight configuration of the legs has the advantage of causing lower production costs.

[0084] According to Figure 17 In this embodiment, there are pairs of connecting legs 33' on both sides. These connecting legs can extend freely relative to each other, abut against each other, or be fixedly connected to each other, for example, by welding or brazing.

[0085] According to Figure 18 In this embodiment, the double clamp is formed by a single, self-closing, curved metal wire loop.

[0086] The connection device according to the invention enables a simple, reliable, and preferably sealed fixation of the pipe.

[0087] List of reference numerals

[0088] 1. Pipe housing

[0089] 10 Matrix

[0090] 100 Flat sidewalls

[0091] 101 Curved sidewalls

[0092] 11 Flange

[0093] 12 Notches

[0094] 120 lower edge

[0095] 13 Bottom

[0096] 14 slots

[0097] 15. Bow-shaped component receiving part

[0098] 16. Pipe opening

[0099] 17 Nameplate

[0100] 2. Sealing device

[0101] 20 Top surface

[0102] 3 clips

[0103] 30 Side Leg

[0104] 31. Piece stitching

[0105] 32 Fixed Legs

[0106] 33 First connecting leg

[0107] 33' Second connecting leg

[0108] 4. Corrugated pipe

[0109] 40 ribs

[0110] 41 Corrugated Groove

[0111] L represents the longitudinal axis, or the axial direction.

[0112] M longitudinal mid-plane

[0113] S1 First Part

[0114] S2 Second Part

Claims

1. Connection device for a ribbed pipe (4) having a circumferential rib, wherein the connection device has a pipe receptacle (1) having a receptacle opening for accommodating an end of the pipe (4) and at least one locking element for fixing the pipe (4) in the pipe receptacle (1), wherein the pipe receptacle (1) has a longitudinal middle plane (M) which runs through the receptacle opening, wherein the locking element has a first portion (SI) which allows at least a portion of the locking element to move relative to the pipe receptacle (1) and a second portion (S2) which is configured for engaging into a corrugation groove (41) of the ribbed pipe (4), wherein the first portion (SI) is closer to the longitudinal middle plane (M) than the second portion (S2) at least when the pipe (4) is introduced and fixed, wherein there is a sealing device (2) which is provided in the pipe receptacle (1) for axially contacting an end of the pipe (4), wherein the pipe receptacle (1) constitutes at least one visible passage to the sealing device (2), and wherein there is at least one window which provides an observation of the connection device, and wherein the at least one window constitutes the at least one visible passage to the sealing device (2).

2. Connection device according to claim 1, wherein the second portion (S2) has a longitudinal extension which is parallel to the longitudinal middle plane (M) and perpendicular to a longitudinal direction (L) of the pipe receptacle (1).

3. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking element is an arcuate clip (3) having two side legs (30), a web (31) connecting the two side legs (30) and two fixing legs (32), wherein the fixing legs (32) together form the first portion (SI) and the web (31) forms the second portion (S2).

4. Connection device according to claim 3, wherein the fixing legs (32) are freely terminated.

5. Connection device according to claim 3, wherein there are two clips (3) which are provided on two opposite sides of the circumferential of the pipe receptacle (1), and wherein one fixing leg (32) of one clip (3) and one fixing leg (32) of the other clip (3) are connected to each other via a first connecting leg (33) so that the two clips (3) constitute a one-piece component.

6. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking element is elastically held in the pipe receptacle (1).

7. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking element protrudes from the pipe receptacle (1) in the region of the second portion (S2). ​ ​ ​ 8. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tube receptacle (1) has at least one notch (12) on its circumference, and wherein the locking element extends with its second portion (S2) into the notch (12).

9. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing device (2) can be compressed in the direction of the axial direction (L) upon introduction of the tube (4).

10. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing device (2) lies against an inner wall portion of the tube receptacle (1).

11. Connection device according to claim 8, wherein the at least one notch on the circumference of the tube receptacle (1) forms the at least one window, which constitutes the at least one visible passage to the sealing device (2).

12. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one visible passage is partially or completely covered by the tube (4) upon correct and complete introduction and fixation of the tube (4).

13. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tube receptacle (1) can realize at least one first optical indication with respect to the sealing device (2) before introduction of the tube (4), and the tube receptacle (1) can realize a second optical indication upon correct and complete introduction and fixation of the tube (4), which is different from the first optical indication.

14. Connection device according to claim 5, wherein the two further fixation legs (32) of the two clamps (3) each transition into a second connection leg (33') which freely ends.

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