Coupling element and method for producing such coupling element

Abstract

The invention relates to a coupling element and a method for producing such a coupling element. The coupling element (2) comprises a sleeve, a body (6) and at least one first jaw (10) rotatable about a first axis of rotation (A84). In the clamping position, the first jaw presses the hose (D2) against the sleeve in a region defined by a boundary plane spaced from the first axis of rotation by a first distance. The coupling element further comprises a movable pusher (14) having a first bearing surface (S14) configured to exert a movement force on a force bearing surface (S '10) of the first jaw (10). When the first jaw (10) is in its clamping position, a value of a first radial clearance (e10) between the first axis of rotation and a contact point (P10) of the stress surface (S '10) and the first bearing surface (S14) is greater than a value of the first distance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a coupling element for connecting a fluid pipe to a hose. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such a coupling element. Background Art

[0002] A known technique for connecting a fluid pipe to a hose is to cause a sleeve to penetrate the hose by elastic deformation of the hose. The sleeve defines a longitudinal passage connected to the pipe. US3167335A discloses a coupling member in which the sleeve is arranged in a body equipped with a device for pressurizing the hose. During the connection and disconnection of the hose to the sleeve, the pressurizing device can be cut off. The pressurizing device consists of jaws hinged around a vertical axis and away from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. The jaws are movable between a clamping position, in which the jaws press the hose against the sleeve, and a retracted position, in which the jaws maintain a certain distance from the hose. A spring returns the jaws toward their clamping position. A lever fixed to the jaws and accessible from the outside of the body allows the operator to bring the jaws into their retracted position. The device does not provide means for ensuring that the hose is safely and effectively fixed to the sleeve, especially when the pressure of the fluid circulating between the conduit and the sleeve is high. One solution to increase the resilient grip of the hose on the sleeve is to provide the sleeve with an outer diameter that is much larger than the inner diameter of the hose, but this makes connecting and disconnecting the hose and sleeve more difficult.

[0003] It is these drawbacks that the present invention more particularly seeks to remedy by proposing a new coupling element for quick connection of fluid pipes and hoses, in which jaws articulated on the body of the coupling element can effectively maintain the hose in a clamped position against the sleeve. Summary of the invention

[0004] To this end, the subject of the invention is a coupling element for connecting a fluid pipe to a hose, the coupling element comprising: a sleeve defining a fluid passage and extending along the longitudinal axis of the coupling element between a front portion configured to fit onto the hose and a rear portion for coupling to the fluid pipe; a body extending along the longitudinal axis around the sleeve and fixed thereto and defining an inlet to the front portion of the sleeve; at least one first jaw rotatable about a first rotation axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and offset from the longitudinal axis between a clamping position and a retracted position,

[0005] In the clamped position, the first jaw presses the hose against the front portion of the sleeve in a contained area that is included radially from the longitudinal axis between the longitudinal axis and the first rotational axis and is bounded along the longitudinal axis by a boundary plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and spaced from the first rotational axis by a first distance that is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis and is non-zero, and

[0006] In the retracted position, the first jaw does not press the hose against the front portion of the cannula;

[0007] A manipulation member, accessible from the exterior of the body, is used to move the first jaw between its clamped position and its retracted position.

[0008] According to the present invention,

[0009] - The coupling elements include:

[0010] a pusher mounted in the interior volume of the body surrounding the sleeve and translatable relative to the body along the longitudinal axis;

[0011] a member for elastically returning the pusher toward the front position;

[0012] - the pusher is provided with a first surface bearing against the first jaw;

[0013] - the first bearing surface of the pusher is configured to exert a force on the first jaw to move the first jaw from its retracted position to its clamped position;

[0014] - the first bearing surface is arranged relative to the longitudinal axis opposite the first rotation axis;

[0015] - When the first jaw is in its clamping position, the first bearing surface abuts against the first jaw, and the value of a first radial gap measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the first rotation axis and the contact point of the force-bearing surface of the first jaw with the first bearing surface is greater than the value of the first distance.

[0016] By means of the invention, the first radial gap allows the pusher to transmit the force received from the elastic return member to the first jaw, wherein the lever arm is greater than the lever arm of the resistance exerted by the hose on the jaw. In other words, the geometry of the constituent elements of the coupling element ensures an effective application of force, which makes the fastening of the hose on the sleeve reliable. Thus, the first jaw can effectively resist the separation force between the sleeve and the hose, especially when the fluid pressure through the sleeve and the hose is high.

[0017] According to an advantageous but not mandatory aspect of the invention, such a coupling element may combine one or more of the following features, alone or according to any technically permissible combination.

[0018] The means for elastically returning the pusher to its advanced position are also the means for returning the first jaw to its clamping position.

[0019] The ratio between the first radial value and the first distance value is between 1.5 and 10, preferably between 4 and 6, more preferably equal to 5.

[0020] the coupling element further comprises a second jaw rotatable between a clamping position and a retracted position about a second rotation axis perpendicular to and offset from the longitudinal axis,

[0021] In the clamped position, the second jaw presses the hose against the front portion of the sleeve in an area that is radially located along the longitudinal axis between the longitudinal axis and the second rotational axis and is bounded along the longitudinal axis by a boundary plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and spaced apart from the first rotational axis by a second distance that is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis and is non-zero, and

[0022] In the retracted position, the second jaw does not press the hose against the front portion of the cannula;

[0023] The pushing member includes a second surface that bears against the second jaw, the second bearing surface of the pushing member being configured to exert a force on the second jaw to move the second jaw from its retracted position to its clamped position, the second bearing surface being arranged relative to the longitudinal axis and the second rotation axis relative to the second jaw, and when the second jaw is in its clamped position, the second bearing surface bears against the second jaw, and a value of a second radial gap measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the second rotation axis and a contact point between the force-bearing surface of the second jaw and the second bearing surface is greater than a value of the second distance.

[0024] The ratio between the value of the second radial gap and the value of the first distance D10 is between 1.5 and 10, preferably between 4 and 6, and more preferably equal to 5.

[0025] The first distance and the second distance have equal values, and the first radial gap and the second radial gap have equal values.

[0026] The pusher comprises a protrusion configured to exert a force on the second jaw so as to move the second jaw from its clamped position to its retracted position.

[0027] The manipulating member of the first jaw is a lever fixed to the first jaw.

[0028] The manipulating member of the first jaw is a ring which is axially movable relative to the body along the longitudinal axis.

[0029] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coupling element as described above, more particularly to a method, wherein

[0030] - said body is provided with at least one inner radial guide surface;

[0031] - the pusher is provided with at least one outer radial guide surface configured to engage with the inner radial guide surface in order to guide the pusher during its movement along the longitudinal axis;

[0032] - the pusher is movable in the passage of the body until a reference position in which the or each outer radial guide surface of the pusher is disengaged from any inner radial guide surface of the body, and vice versa;

[0033] The method comprises a step a) consisting in producing the body and the pusher simultaneously by additive manufacturing, while the pusher is in its reference position.

[0034] Advantageously, the method comprises the following steps after step a), comprising

[0035] b) moving a pusher in the body of the coupling element into a position where the radially outer guide surface engages the radially inner guide surface;

[0036] c) pre-positioning the two jaws in the housing;

[0037] d) engaging a housing equipped with jaws in the body through an opening provided in the body;

[0038] e) installing and tightening the fastening screws in the support portion of the housing and in the threaded holes of the jaws 10 and 12, respectively, so that the screws are aligned with the first and second rotation axes;

[0039] f) mounting a member for the spring-elastic return of the pusher in the internal volume of the body, bearing against the pusher;

[0040] g) Installing the sleeve in the pusher and the body so that the elastic return member bears against the sleeve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The invention will be better understood and other advantages will emerge more clearly from the following description of several embodiments of quick-connection elements according to its principle and its method of manufacture, which description is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 The four illustrations A), B), C) and D) show two front views and two cross-sections of a coupling element according to the invention in two different configurations. Illustration B) shows Figure 2 Inset A) shows a section along plane 1B-1B. Inset D) shows a cross section and along Figure 2 Inset B) Plane 1D-1D visible on the left.

[0043] Figure 2 The two illustrations A) and B) show two longitudinal sections of the coupling element, one along Figure 1 Illustrations A and C) are taken from plane 2A-2A and plane 2B-2B.

[0044] Figure 3The two illustrations A) and B) show the Figure 1 Two longitudinal cross-sections of the same connecting element taken on plane 3A-3A and plane 3B-3B in the illustrations B) and D).

[0045] Figure 4 The two illustrations A) and B) show the Figure 1 Two longitudinal cross-sections of the same coupling element taken on planes 4A-4A and 4B-4B in the illustrations B) and D).

[0046] Figure 5 The two illustrations A) and B) show a perspective view and an exploded view of the coupling element, as well as a perspective view of a pusher belonging to the coupling element.

[0047] Figure 6 The three illustrations A), B) and C) show the Figures 1 to 5 A front view and a cross section of the main body and the pusher of the coupling element, and an inset D) showing a longitudinal perspective cross-sectional view of the main body on a smaller scale;

[0048] Figure 7 The two illustrations A and B show the Figure 6 Inset A) at plane 7A-7A and Figure 7 Two longitudinal sections of the main body and the pusher taken along line 7B-7B at center inset B;

[0049] Figure 8 The two illustrations A) and B) show the connection of a coupling element according to a second embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 Two longitudinal sections with similar cross-sections are shown;

[0050] Fig. 9 The two illustrations A) and B) show the connection of a coupling element according to a third embodiment. Figure 2 A) in the illustration in Figure 1 , and showing an exploded perspective view of the body of the coupling element at a smaller scale; and

[0051] Fig.10 The two illustrations A) and B) show the connection element according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 Two similar longitudinal sections. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Figures 1 to 5 The quick-connect element 2 shown is designed to be connected to the tube C2 on the one hand and to the hose D2 on the other hand. For the sake of clarity, the tube C2 is only shown in FIG. Figure 2 The hose D2 is shown in dotted lines only. Figure 1 , 2, 4 and 5. A hose is a specific type of fluid flow tube, which has the characteristics of flexibility and radial expansion. The hose D2 here forms a coupling element that cooperates with the coupling element 2.

[0053] The fluid passing through the pipe C2 and the hose D2 may be liquid or gas, and in particular has a relatively high pressure, for example greater than or equal to 1 MPa.

[0054] The front side of the coupling element 2 is defined as the side that is directed toward the hose D2 during assembly of the coupling element 2 and the hose D2 or when said elements are connected. Figures 2 to 5 In the embodiment, the front side of the coupling element 2 faces the left side and the rear side faces the right side. The coupling element 2 extends along the longitudinal axis A2 between the front side and the rear side.

[0055] Figure 1 The front view shown is taken from the rear of the coupling element 2 .

[0056] The coupling element comprises a sleeve 4 extending along a longitudinal axis A2, having a chamfered front portion 42 and a threaded rear portion 44. The sleeve 4 defines a channel C4 for the passage of a fluid between the front portion 42 and the rear portion 44 thereof.

[0057] D4 represents the outer diameter of the sleeve 4 over most of its length between the front and rear parts. D42 represents the outer diameter of the front part 42, which is smaller than the outer diameter D4. The surface area of ​​the channel portion of the channel C4 in the front part 42 is smaller than its surface area in the middle part and the rear part 44.

[0058] The front portion 42 of the sleeve 4 is provided with two peripheral ribs 46 forming projections for retaining the hose D2 on said portion.

[0059] The front portion 42 has an inclined surface 48 that converges toward the front, the function of which is to facilitate the insertion of the sleeve 4 into the hose D2.

[0060] The rear portion 44 is provided with an internal thread 49 for mounting the tube C2.

[0061] In the example of the figures, the sleeve 4 is in one piece. In a variant (not shown), it may consist of several parts assembled to each other in a sealed manner.

[0062] Close to its rear portion 44 , the sleeve 4 comprises a collar flange 45 and an external thread 47 .

[0063] The coupling element 2 also comprises a single-piece body 6 extending along the longitudinal axis A2 between a front end 62 and a rear end 64. The rear end 64 is the proximal end of the body 6 and the front end 62 is the distal end of the body 6, seen from the tube C2.

[0064] At its front or distal end 62, the body 6 defines a mouth 63 centred on the longitudinal axis A2, through which the front part 42 of the sleeve 4 projects towards the front of the coupling element 2. The mouth 63 provides access to the front part 42 of the sleeve.

[0065] The diameter of the mouth 63 is denoted by D63.

[0066] The internal volume of the body 6 is indicated by V6. Apart from the portion of the front portion 42 protruding through the mouth 63, the cannula is mostly housed in the internal volume V6.

[0067] At its rear end 64, the body 4 is provided with a thread 67 which cooperates with the thread 47 of the sleeve 4 to screw the sleeve 4 into the body 6 until the collar flange 45 abuts against the rear end or proximal end 64, which fixes the elements 4 and 6 and positions the sleeve 4 relative to the body 6 along the longitudinal axis A2.

[0068] The diameter of the thread 67 is indicated by D67. The thread defines a proximal opening for the cannula 4 to pass through the body 6.

[0069] 66 denotes the middle portion of the body 6 defined along the axis A2 between the front end 62 and the rear end 64 of the body 6. At the middle portion 66, the body 62 has an outer geometry that is generally in the form of a cylinder that is truncated by two planes that are parallel to the Figures 2 to 4 The plane defines two side surfaces S6 and S'6, which are arranged at Figure 2 The two sides of the cross section of the illustrated illustration A) are shown. 614 and 615 respectively denote substantially flat side walls of the body 6 which define on the outside surfaces S6 and S'6.

[0070] The body 6 further defines a concave outer surface S'6, which is located between the surfaces S6 and S'6, at the lower portion of the body 6, such as Figures 1 to 4 Position shown.

[0071] Between the surfaces S6 , S′6 and S′6 , the body 6 has external serrations 65 , which facilitate its grip.

[0072] Laterally of the concave surface S″ 6 and in front of it, the body 6 defines a generally rectangular opening O6 through which the housing 8 is engaged in the internal volume V6 of the body 6 .

[0073] The housing 8 comprises a front face 82 which, in the mounted configuration of the housing 8 in the body 6, is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2 and in which a circular orifice 83 is arranged which, in said configuration, is aligned with the mouth 63. The orifice 83 is intended for the passage of the front portion 42 of the cannula 4 and of the hose D2.

[0074] The housing 8 comprises two side walls 84 and 85 extending parallel to each other from a cover 86. The cover 86 closes the opening O6 in the mounted configuration of the housing 8 in the body 6 and defines a concave surface S'8 which is flush with the surface S'6 of the body 6 in this configuration.

[0075] A recess 87 is provided in the cover 86 and opens to the rear side of the housing 8 .

[0076] In the mounted configuration of the housing 8 in the body 6, the side walls 84 and 85 extend parallel to the side walls 614 and 615, and thus parallel to the surfaces S6 and S'6. Preferably, the side walls 84 and 85 extend into the internal volume V6 along the side walls 614 and 615, respectively, and thus extend to the inside of the side walls 614, 615.

[0077] The side wall 84 is pierced by a through hole 842 arranged at a thickened portion of the side wall 84, the through hole 842 defining a support centered on an axis A84 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2 and spaced from the longitudinal axis A2 by a distance D84 measured perpendicular to the axes A2 and A84, the distance being non-zero. Similarly, the side wall 85 is pierced by a through hole 852 arranged at a thickened portion of the wall 85. The through hole 852 defines a support centered on the axis A85. The axis A85 is perpendicular to the axis A2 and spaced from the axis A2 by a non-zero distance D85, the distance d85 being measured perpendicular to the axes A2 and A85.

[0078] Advantageously, as shown, axes A84 and A85 are parallel and distances D84 and D85 are equal. Thus, in a transverse plane of the coupling element 2, ie a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2, axes A84 and A85 are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal axis A2. However, the above is not mandatory.

[0079] The body 6 is provided at its surfaces 614 and 615 with two seats 624 and 625 aligned respectively with the through holes 842 and 852 and centred on the axes A84 and A85 in the mounted configuration of the housing 8 in the body 6 .

[0080] The coupling element 2 further comprises a first jaw 10 and a second jaw 12 .

[0081] The first jaw 10 is hinged about the axis A84 on the body 6 equipped with the housing 8. To this end, a first partially threaded screw 94 is inserted into the support formed by the through hole 842, extends through the seat 624 and is screwed into the jaw 10. The head 942 of the screw 94 is received in the seat 624, while its shaft 944 extends through the orifice 842 and is screwed into the threaded orifice 102 of the jaw 10 by means of a threaded portion 946.

[0082] In a similar manner, the second jaw 12 is articulated about the axis A85 by means of a partially threaded screw 95 , the head 952 of which is received in the base 625 , the shaft 954 of which extends through the orifice 852 and is screwed by the threaded portion 956 into the threaded orifice 122 of the jaw 12 .

[0083] Each of the first jaw 10 and the second jaw 12 can be moved between a clamping position and a retracted position (or a release position) about an axis A84 or an axis A85, respectively, relative to the body 6 equipped with the housing 8. Therefore, the axis A84 is the first axis of rotation of the first jaw 10, while the axis A85 is the second axis of rotation of the second jaw 12. In its clamping position, if the hose D2 is assembled on the sleeve 4, the jaw 10 or 12 presses the hose against the outer radial surface S42 of the front part 42 of the sleeve. In its retracted position, the jaw 10 or 12 does not press the hose against the outer radial surface of the front part of the sleeve.

[0084] The clamped position of the jaws 10 and 12 is shown in Figure 1 Illustrations A) and B) and Figures 2 to 4 In the illustration A), the hose is shown in Figure 2 and 4 The outer side of the coupling element 2 in the illustration A). The retracted position of the jaws 10 and 12 is shown in Figure 1 Figure D), and Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the illustration B), the hose D2 is shown in Figure 2 and 4 In the illustration B) of FIG. 4 , the front part 42 of the sleeve 4 is in the unclamped position.

[0085] When the first jaw 10 is in its clamping position and when the hose is fitted onto the sleeve, the first jaw 10 defines a bearing surface S10 on the hose D2. When the second jaw 12 is in its clamping position and when the hose is fitted onto the sleeve, the second jaw S12 also defines a bearing surface S12 against the hose D2.

[0086] Each bearing surface S10 or S12 has a progressive profile relative to the front portion 42 of the sleeve 4, so that when the jaws 10 or 12 are in the clamping position, the distance between the longitudinal axis A2 and the orthogonal projection of the bearing surface S10 or S12 on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is less than half of the outer diameter Φ2 of the free hose D2 mounted on the front portion 42 of the sleeve 4, and when the jaws 10 or 12 are in the retracted position, the distance between the longitudinal axis A2 and the bearing surface S10 or S12 projected onto the same vertical plane is greater than half of the outer diameter Φ2.

[0087] The area defined by the bearing surface S10 is located radially of the longitudinal axis A2 between the longitudinal axis and the first rotation axis A84, wherein the first jaw 10 presses the hose D2 against the front portion 42 of the sleeve 4 in the clamped position of the first jaw. In the clamped position, the area where the first jaw 10 presses against the hose D2 is limited towards the rear, i.e. away from the first rotation axis A84 along the longitudinal axis A2, by a boundary plane P10, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2 and passes through the point on the bearing surface S10 that is farthest from the first rotation axis A84 in a direction parallel to said longitudinal axis. D10 represents the distance between the first rotation axis A84 and the boundary plane P10 measured parallel to the longitudinal axis A2.

[0088] The distance D10 is the maximum lever arm of the resistance exerted by the hose D2 on the first jaw 10 in the clamped position when the hose is mounted on the sleeve 4.

[0089] The area defined by the bearing surface S12, in which the second jaw 12 in the clamped position of the second jaw presses the hose D2 against the front portion 42 of the sleeve 4, is located radially between the longitudinal axis A2 and the second rotation axis A85. In the clamped position, the area where the second jaw 12 presses against the hose D2 is limited towards the rear, i.e. away from the second rotation axis A85 along the longitudinal axis A2, by a boundary plane P12, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2 and passes through the point on the bearing surface S12 that is farthest from the second rotation axis A85 in a direction parallel to said longitudinal axis. D12 represents the distance between the second rotation axis A85 and the boundary plane P12 measured parallel to the longitudinal axis A2.

[0090] The distance D12 is the maximum lever arm of the resistance exerted by the hose D2 on the second jaw 12 in the clamped position when the hose is mounted on the sleeve 4.

[0091] In the example in the figure, the axes of rotation A84 and A85 are arranged at the same level along the longitudinal axis A2, as are the boundary planes P10 and P12. Therefore, the distances D10 and D12 are equal.

[0092] However, this is not mandatory and other spatial distributions of the first and second axes of rotation A84 and A85 and of the first and second boundary planes P10 and P12 are conceivable.

[0093] The first jaw 10 includes a side arm 104 that extends radially to the first rotation axis A84 and defines a surface S'10 for receiving force. The force-bearing surface S'10 is formed at the rear of the side arm 104 and is opposite to the first rotation axis A84 relative to the longitudinal axis A2. In other words, in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 and perpendicular to the first rotation axis A84, the first rotation axis A84 and the force-bearing surface S'10 are located on both sides of the longitudinal axis A2, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 shown.

[0094] The second jaw 12 further includes a side arm 125 that radially extends to the second rotation axis A85 and defines a force-bearing surface S'12. The force-bearing surface S'12 is disposed at the rear of the side arm 125. In a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 and perpendicular to the second rotation axis A85, the second rotation axis A85 and the force-bearing surface S'12 are disposed on both sides of the longitudinal axis A2, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0095] The side arm 125 is provided with a hook 127 at an end thereof opposite to the threaded hole 122, and the hook 127 defines a concave recess 126. A force bearing surface S'12 is formed on the outer side of the hook 127, opposite to the concave recess 126.

[0096] In the assembled configuration of the coupling element 2, the side arms 104 and 125 are adjacent to and arranged inside the side walls 84 and 85 of the housing 8, respectively, relative to which the housing 8 can pivot about the rotation axes A84 and A85, respectively.

[0097] The first jaw also comprises a maneuvering member formed by a lever 106 which projects from the body 6 and the housing 8 through the notch 87. The lever 106 is integral with the portion of the first jaw 10 provided with the threaded hole 102, the bearing surface S10 and the side arm 104 and therefore also with the force-bearing surface S'10.

[0098] By pressing the lever 106 against the surfaces S'6 and S'8, the lever 106 can manipulate the first jaw 10 between its clamped position and its retracted position, which causes the first jaw 10 to pivot about the first rotation axis A84, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 If the user of the coupling element 2 does not exert a force on the lever 106, then Figures 2 to 4 The clamped position of illustration A) is the default position adopted by the jaws 10.

[0099] The coupling element 2 also comprises a pusher 14 extending along a longitudinal axis A14 coinciding with the longitudinal axis A2 of the coupling element 2 in the mounted configuration.

[0100] The pusher 14 is mounted inside the body 6, in the internal volume V6 and around the sleeve 4, along the longitudinal axis A2, between its front portion 42 and its rear portion 44, under the action of an elastic member, in the example formed by a helical spring 16, which tends to push the pusher 14 forwards, i.e. towards the front end 62 of the body 6. The advanced position of the pusher 14, as shown Figures 2 to 4 The illustration A) is the default position of the pusher, which the pusher will take under the action of the coil spring 16 as long as the user does not fold the lever 106 towards the surfaces S'6 and S'8.

[0101] In a variant, the spring 16 may be replaced by another elastic member for returning the pusher toward the front of the body 6 .

[0102] The pusher 14 is designed to move longitudinally relative to the body 6, the housing 8 and the jaws 10 and 12, ie to translate parallel to the longitudinal axis A2. Therefore, the pusher forms a slide relative to the body 6, the housing 8 and the jaws 10 and 12.

[0103] The pusher 14 comprises an annular skirt 142 centered on the axis A14 and provided at each end thereof with an outer radial guide surface, namely a front outer radial guide surface 144 and a rear outer radial guide surface 146 .

[0104] In practice, the outer radial guide surfaces 144 and 146 have a circular cross section. Thus, each outer guide surface is inscribed in a cylinder with a circular base of diameter D14 or D16.

[0105] D14 and D16 represent their diameters, and preferably have the same value.

[0106] In a variant of the invention (not shown), the diameters D14 and D16 have different values.

[0107] L14 denotes the axial length of the front outer radial guide surface 144 and L16 denotes the axial length of the rear outer radial guide surface 146, these axial lengths being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis A14.

[0108] In this example, according to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the lengths L14 and L16 are equal.

[0109] In a variant of the invention (not shown), said length may be different.

[0110] S15 denotes an outer radial surface of the skirt 142, which is located along the longitudinal axis A14 between the outer radial guide surfaces 144 and 146 which are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis A2. The diameter of the surface S15 is denoted by D15.

[0111] The diameter D15 is strictly smaller than the diameters D14 and D16. In other words, the surface S15 defines a cylindrical engagement surface whose diameter D15 is smaller than the diameter D14 of the front outer radial guide surface 144 and the diameter D16 of the rear outer radial guide surface 146.

[0112] The body 6 is provided with a front inner radial guide surface 644 and a rear inner radial guide surface 646, both of which are centered on the longitudinal axis A2. The front inner radial guide surface 644 is formed at the center of the inner peripheral rib 662 of the middle portion 66 of the body 6. The rear inner radial guide surface 644 is formed at the junction between the middle portion 66 and the rear portion 64 of the body 6.

[0113] L64 and L66 represent the axial lengths of the front inner radial surface 644 and the rear inner radial surface 646, respectively, each axial length being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis A2.

[0114] The front inner radial surface 644 is provided with a groove 648 extending through its length L64, while the rear inner radial guide surface 646 is provided with a groove 650 extending through its entire length L66.

[0115] In a radial plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2, the vertices of the ribs of the dividing groove 648 define a circle inscribed in the front inner radial guide surface 644, whose diameter is denoted by D64. Similarly, in a plane radial to the longitudinal axis A2, the vertices of the ribs of the dividing groove 650 define a circle inscribed in the rear inner radial guide surface 646, whose diameter is denoted by D66. Thus, each inner guide surface is inscribed around a cylinder with a circular base of diameter D64 or D66.

[0116] Diameters D64 and D66 advantageously have the same value, as do diameters D14 and D16.

[0117] In a variant of the invention (not shown), the diameters D64 and D66 have different values.

[0118] In any case, the diameters D14 , D64 , D16 and D66 are chosen so that the radial guide surfaces 144 and 644 and 146 and 646 effectively guide the pusher 14 in translation along the axis A2 inside the body 6 during its sliding relative to the body 6 .

[0119] The ratio of the diameters D14 and D64 and the ratio of the diameters D16 and D66 provide a relatively small radial thickness guide gap J14, for example, of the order of a few tenths of a millimeter, between the outer radial guide surface 144 and the inner radial guide surface 644 on the one hand, and between 146 and 646 on the other hand. In other words, within the guide gap J14, the diameters D14, D16, D64 and D66 are equal.

[0120] C represents the travel of the push member 14 under the action of the spring 16. Figures 2 to 4 The movement of one of the illustrations B) in the figure (i.e. the rear position of the push member 14 relative to the main body 6) to the position of illustration A) in the figure (i.e. the front position of the push member 14 relative to the main body 6), and vice versa when moving from the position of illustration A) to the position of illustration B.

[0121] The length L64 is greater than or equal to the sum of the length L14 and the stroke C. Similarly, the length L66 is greater than or equal to the sum of the length L16 and the stroke C.

[0122] We have the following relationship:

[0123] L64 ≥ L14 + C (Equation 1)

[0124] L66 ≥ L16 + C (Equation 2)

[0125] Through the described relationship between lengths L14 and L64, L16 and L66 and stroke C, during operation of the connecting element 2, the front outer radial guide surface 144 remains opposite to the front inner radial guide surface 644 along the longitudinal axis A2, and the rear outer radial guide surface 146 remains opposite to the rear inner radial guide surface 646.

[0126] On the front side of the pusher 14, the pusher 14 defines a first bearing surface S14, which is perpendicular to the axis A14 and abuts against the force surface S'10 of the first jaw 10 under the action of the return spring 16, provided that the lever 106 is not folded towards the body 6, that is, when the first jaw 10 is in the clamped position by default. In other words, by default, the elastic force of the spring 16 is transmitted to the pusher 14, which exerts a forward axial force on the force surface S'10 through the first bearing surface S14, the effect of which is to return the first jaw 10 to its clamped position.

[0127] Thus, the return spring 16 , which is a member for elastically returning the pusher 14 to its advanced position, is also a member for returning the first jaw 10 to its clamped position.

[0128] The pusher 14 is oriented about the axis A2 so that its bearing surface S14 is located in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation A84, on the side of the longitudinal axis A2 opposite to the first axis of rotation 84. The radial clearance measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2 in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation A84 is denoted by e10; between the contact point P100 of the force-bearing surface S'10 of the first jaw 10 and the surface S14 in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation A84. In the example shown in the figures, the plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation A84 is Figure 4The plane shown, in which the radial gap e10 is identified.

[0129] The radial clearance e10 is the lever arm of the force transmitted between the surfaces S14 and S'10 relative to the axis of rotation A84 when the first jaw 10 is in its clamped position. The value of the radial difference e10 is greater than the value of the first distance D10.

[0130] Thus, in particular, the force-bearing surface S′ 10 is provided on the edge of the protuberance 108 defined by the lateral arm 104 , opposite the threaded hole 102 relative to a plane parallel to the first rotation axis A84 and containing the longitudinal axis A2 .

[0131] Therefore, the lever arm of the force transmitted between the surfaces S14 and S'10 about the first axis of rotation A84 is greater than the maximum lever arm of the clamping force exerted on the hose 2 by the bearing surface S10 of the first jaw 10. Therefore, the force transmitted between the surfaces S14 and S'10 is amplified by the ratio between the value of the radial gap e10 and the value of the distance d10. Therefore, despite the resistance exerted by the hose D2, the first jaw 10 is effectively maintained in the clamped position by the pusher 14 and the spring 16.

[0132] Advantageously, the ratio between the value of the first axial difference e10 and the value of the first distance d10 is between 1.5 and 10, preferably between 4 and 6 and more preferably equal to 5.

[0133] The pusher 14 also defines a second bearing surface S′ 14 which, in the example shown in the figures, is coplanar with the first bearing surface S 14 , but this is not mandatory.

[0134] The second bearing surface S'14 is preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A14 and is configured to abut against the force-bearing surface S'12 of the second jaw 12, such as Figure 3 shown.

[0135] The radial clearance perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A12 and measured in a plane perpendicular to the second axis of rotation A85, which is located between the second axis of rotation A85 and the contact point P120 of the force-bearing surface S'12 and the surface S'14 of the second jaw 12, shall be denoted by e12. In the example shown in the drawings, the plane perpendicular to the second axis of rotation A85 is Figure 3 The plane shown, in which the distance e12 is marked.

[0136] The surface S'14 exerts a bearing force on the force-bearing surface S'12 under the action of the spring 16, which bearing force returns the second jaw to its clamping position by default.

[0137] The radial distance e12 is the lever arm of the force transmitted between the surfaces S'14 and S'12 relative to the axis of rotation A85 when the second jaw 12 is in its clamping position. The value of the radial difference e12 is greater than the value of the distance D12.

[0138] Therefore, the lever arm of the force transmitted between the surfaces S'14 and S'12 about the second axis of rotation A85 is greater than the maximum lever arm of the clamping force exerted on the hose 2 by the bearing surface S12 of the second jaw 12. Therefore, the force transmitted between the surfaces S'14 and S'12 is amplified by the ratio between the value of the radial clearance e12 and the value of the distance D12. Therefore, despite the resistance exerted by the hose D2, the second jaw 12 is effectively held in the clamped position by the pusher 14 and the spring 16.

[0139] The pusher 14 also includes a finger 148 that engages in the recess 126 of the second jaw 12. The finger 148 is a protrusion of the pusher 14 that is intended to interact with the second jaw 12. In a variant, the finger 148 can be replaced by another protrusion. Regardless of whether it involves a finger or another protrusion, a force is exerted on the second jaw 12 to move the jaw from its clamped position to its retracted position, as described below.

[0140] When the user applies a torque C106 on the lever 106 about the first axis of rotation A84, the effect is to move the lever and the entire first jaw 10 from Figures 2 to 4 The position shown in illustration a) is changed to the position shown in illustration b), the arm 104 of the first jaw 10 fixed to the lever 106 exerts a force through its protrusion 108, pushing the pusher 14 towards the rear end 64 of the body 6. In other words, the surface S'10 then forms a bearing surface against the surface S14, which receives the force exerted by the jaw 10, this force having an axial component parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 and directed backwards, which axial component is opposite to the elastic force of the spring 16.

[0141] If the applied torque C106 is large enough, the pusher 14 moves backwards under the force transmitted between the surfaces S'10 and S14. Figures 2 to 4 This can be seen in the illustrations B) and A). Therefore, the jaws 10 can be returned to Figures 2 to 4 The illustration B) shows its retracted position.

[0142] The finger 148 of the pusher 14 moves rearwardly together with the rest of the pusher, which has the effect of exerting a force on the concave surface of the hook 127 in the recess 126 for driving the jaw 12 towards the rear end 64 of the body 6. As a result, the second jaw 12 is moved toward Figures 2 to 4 The illustration B) shows the movement to its retracted position.

[0143] The operation of the lever 106 thus consists in folding it downwards towards the surfaces S'6 and S'8, the effect of which is to move the two jaws 10 and 12 from their clamping position to their respective retracted positions.

[0144] Reaching such a retracted position makes it possible to insert the hose D2 onto the front portion 42 of the sleeve 4 without being hindered by the jaws 10 and 12 .

[0145] The user can then release the lever 106, which then applies no torque on the first jaw about the first rotation axis A84, so that the pusher 14, under the action of the spring 16, effectively pushes the two jaws 10 and 12 to their corresponding clamping positions by acting on the supporting surfaces S14 and S'14 on the force-bearing surfaces S'10 and S'12.

[0146] Despite the resistance exerted by the outer radial surface of the hose D2 on the bearing surfaces S10 and S12, the elastic force exerted by the spring 16 is amplified, taking into account the ratio between the values ​​e10 / D10 and e12 / D12, effectively returning and maintaining the two jaws 10 and 12 in the clamped position.

[0147] l14 denotes the maximum width of the pusher 14 measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A14. The width defines the radial dimension of the pusher 14, ie the minimum diameter of a circle through which the pusher 14 can extend.

[0148] The width l14 is strictly greater than the diameters D63 and D67.

[0149] Therefore, the pusher cannot be inserted into or removed from the main body 6 through the front end 62 and the rear end 64 thereof.

[0150] In order to optimize the manufacturing range of the connecting element 2, the parts 6 and 14 are produced simultaneously by additive manufacturing by binder jetting, sometimes also called "additive processing by binder jetting". The principle of additive processing by jetting a binder consists in depositing a thin layer of powder material, then applying a binder to agglomerate the powder particles exposed to heat or light. The heat source or light source can be moved in a plane and makes it possible to agglomerate the particles corresponding to the part slices. Therefore, the production of the part is carried out in continuous slices parallel to the initial laying plane. In the case of simultaneous processing of the main body 6 and the pusher 14, the initial laying plane can be selected as a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A2 and located at the end of the rear end 64 of the main body. The main body 6 and the pusher 14 are made simultaneously piece by piece without providing a connection between the two parts. The part is fixed in place by the unagglomerated powder particles. Once the main body 6 and the pusher 14 are manufactured, the unagglomerated powder particles need to be discharged.

[0151] The body 6 and the pusher 14 are made of the same material. For example, the powder may be polyamide and the binder may be activated by heating.

[0152] Additive manufacturing makes it possible to produce in one operation the first hollow portion in which the second part is arranged, for example the body 6 in which the pusher 14 is arranged, without restricting the assembly of the second part inside the first hollow portion.

[0153] In order to realize this additive manufacturing, the pusher 14 can be moved in the body 6 Figure 6 and Figure 7 The reference position is shown in which the outer radial surfaces 144 and 146 of the pusher 14 are disengaged from the inner radial surfaces 644 and 646 of the body 6. In other words, in the reference position, the outer radial guide surfaces 144 and 146 are axially offset from the inner radial guide surfaces 644 and 646 along the longitudinal axis A2.

[0154] In the reference position, the rear part of the skirt 142 is no longer engaged in the rear part 64 of the body 6 , the front part of the skirt 142 being further forward along the longitudinal axis A2 than the internal rib 662 .

[0155] In the reference position, the outer and inner radial guide surfaces 144, 146, 644 and 646 can be produced by locally applying an adhesive to the powder, and even if the guide gap J14 has a small radial thickness, there is no risk of contact between the surfaces or of delayed adhesion because they are axially offset from each other along the longitudinal axis A2.

[0156] In the reference position, the front inner radial guide surface 644 faces the engagement surface S15, ie is axially aligned with the engagement surface S15 along the longitudinal axis A2.

[0157] Thus, there is a manufacturing gap J15 between the engagement surface S15 and the inner radial surface 644. The radial thickness of the manufacturing gap J15 is strictly greater than the radial thickness of the guide gap J14.

[0158] For example, the radial thickness of the manufacturing gap J15 may be greater than or equal to 0.5 mm, preferably equal to 1 mm.

[0159] In other words, in the reference position for additive manufacturing of elements 6 and 14 of coupling element 2 , there is a relatively large radial gap J15 between pusher 14 and rib 662 , which is thicker than the gap J14 for guiding the translation of pusher 14 relative to body 6 .

[0160] Therefore, during the additive manufacturing process, it helps to remove powder particles near the guiding surface that are not bound together by the binder.

[0161] In this regard, the presence of the groove 648 at the inner radial forward guide surface 644 assists in venting excess powder.

[0162] The presence of the groove 650 on the rear inner radial guide surface 646 also helps to discharge excess powder, particularly in a variant of the invention (not shown) in which a portion of the surface corresponding to the surface S15 engages in the rear inner radial guide surface 646 in the reference position of the pusher 14.

[0163] Once the body 6 and the pusher 14 are simultaneously obtained by additive manufacturing, the assembly of the coupling element 2 comprises the following successive steps carried out in sequence, including:

[0164] - Move the pusher 14 to the rear stop position in the body 6 of the coupling element, i.e. move the pusher 14 from Figure 6 and Figure 7 The reference position shown is moved to the Figures 2 to 4 A position comparable to the position of the illustration B) in which the outer radial guide surfaces 144 and 146 engage with the inner radial guide surfaces 644 and 646;

[0165] - pre-positioning of the two jaws 10 and 12 in the housing 8;

[0166] - insert the housing 8 equipped with the jaws 10 and 12 into the body 6 through the opening O6, taking care that the side arm 105 of the second jaw 12 cooperates effectively with the finger 148 of the pusher 14, i.e. ensuring that the finger 148 is correctly engaged in the recess 126 of the second jaw;

[0167] - Assemble and screw the screws 94 and 95 into the threaded holes 102 and 122 of the jaws 10 and 12 respectively;

[0168] - Mounting the return spring 16 of the pusher 14 in the internal volume of the body, against the shoulder 141 of the pusher;

[0169] - Assembling and tightening the sleeve 4 in the pusher 14 and the body 6 by means of the threads 47 and 67 , so that the spring 16 bears against the shoulder 41 of the sleeve.

[0170] To couple the coupling element 2 and the hose D2, the user holds the body 6 with his hands and moves the lever 106 towards the surfaces S'6 and S'8 by applying a torque C106, which brings the jaws 12 and 14 into their respective retracted positions. It is then sufficient to align the hose D2 along the longitudinal axis A2 and move it towards the sleeve 4, while keeping the lever 106 pressed against the body 6. The front part 42 of the sleeve 4 projects from the body 6 and is provided with a bevel 48, which facilitates this operation.

[0171] In the first stage of the method, the hose D2 comes into contact with the front portion 42 of the sleeve and slides along the front portion. The method continues until the front surface of the hose D2 abuts against the shoulder 43 of the sleeve, which defines the rear end of the front portion 42. The hose then covers the peripheral rib 46. The jaws 10 and 12 are still held in the retracted position by the torque C106 that the user continues to apply to the lever 106. Therefore, the jaws do not hinder assembly together.

[0172] By releasing the lever 106 , ie by ceasing to apply the torque C106 , the user allows the jaws to return to the clamped position under the action of the pusher 14 which is elastically loaded by the spring 16 .

[0173] The hose D2 is then mounted, fluidically connected to the coupling element 2 and securely held relative to the coupling element 2 .

[0174] In order to disconnect the hose D2 from the coupling element 2, it is sufficient to take the body 6 in hand and push the lever 106 towards the body by means of a torque C106, which returns the two jaws 10 and 12 to their respective retracted positions. The user can then grasp the hose and pull it parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 in a direction away from the sleeve 4. Since the jaws remain in their retracted position, the removal of the hose D2 is not hindered.

[0175] exist Figure 8 In the second, third and fourth embodiments of the present invention shown below, elements similar to those of the first embodiment have the same reference numerals. In the following, we mainly describe the differences between the embodiments and the first embodiment. Figure 8 Where a reference numeral is given in any of the following figures but not mentioned in the specification, or is mentioned in the specification but not in the figures, the reference numeral corresponds to the same element as the element identified by the same reference numeral in the first embodiment.

[0176] The connection element 2 of the second embodiment differs from the aforementioned embodiment in that the manipulation of the push member 14 against the elastic force applied by the spring 16 is performed by means of a manipulation ring 206, which is translationally fixed along the longitudinal axis A2 of the connection element 1 of the push member 14, and the longitudinal axis A2 defines two support surfaces S14 and S'14, which are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0177] Furthermore, in the embodiment described, the body 6 and the pusher 14 are advantageously made in one piece by additive manufacturing using reference positions, as in the first embodiment.

[0178] exist Fig. 9In the third embodiment shown, the body 6 is divided into two parts, including a front part 6A and a rear part 6B, which are screwed together by threads 6A2 provided on the front part 6A and threads 6B2 provided on the rear part 6B. Part 6A defines a front end 62 of the body 6, while the rear part defines a rear end 64 thereof.

[0179] In a variant of the invention (not shown), the thread is provided on the rear portion 6B and the thread is provided on the front portion 6A.

[0180] In the embodiment described, it is not mandatory to manufacture the body 6 and the pusher 14 by additive manufacturing. The two parts 6A and 6B of the body 6 can be mounted around the pusher 14.

[0181] exist Fig.10 In the fourth embodiment of the invention shown, the first jaw 10 is controlled by the first lever 106 and the second jaw 12 is controlled by the second lever 126. In this case, the jaws can be manipulated independently of each other about the first axis of rotation A84 and the second axis of rotation A85, respectively. The pusher 14 may include two bearing surfaces S14 and S'14 identical to those of the first embodiment, but does not include any finger-like portion similar to the finger-like portion 148 of the first embodiment.

[0182] Advantageously, levers 106 and 126 are integral with jaws 10 and 12, respectively.

[0183] In the fourth embodiment, additive manufacturing of the main body 6 and the pusher 14 is also provided.

[0184] In the second to fourth embodiments, the distances d10 , d12 and the radial gaps e10 , e12 defined as in the first embodiment are such that the ratio e10 / d10 is strictly greater than 1, as is the ratio e12 / d12 .

[0185] As for the first to third embodiments, according to a variant of the invention (not shown), the coupling element may comprise a single jaw movable relative to the body. In this case, the single ratio of the ratio e10 / d10 type is strictly greater than 1.

[0186] Where a diameter is mentioned in the above description, the diameter corresponds to the maximum dimension of the cross section of the circular opening transverse to the longitudinal axis A2. If the cross section is not circular, the definition of the maximum dimension in question applies to the geometry of the transverse opening.

[0187] According to a variant of the invention (not shown), the lengths L14 and L16 are greater than the lengths L64 and L66 plus the stroke C. The following relationship holds:

[0188] L14 ≥ L64 + C (Equation 3)

[0189] L16 ≥ L66 + C (Equation 4)

[0190] During operation of the coupling element 2 , the front outer radial guide surface 144 remains opposite to the front inner radial guide surface 644 and the rear outer radial guide surface 146 remains opposite to the rear inner radial guide surface 646 along the longitudinal axis A2 through the relationship between the lengths L14 and L64 , L16 and L66 and the stroke C.

[0191] Any features described above for one embodiment or one variant may be applied to other embodiments and variants described herein, as far as technically feasible.

Claims

1. A coupling element (2) for connecting a fluid pipe (C2) to a hose (D2), the coupling element comprising: a sleeve (4) defining a passage (C4) for the fluid and extending along the longitudinal axis (A2) of the coupling element between a front portion (42) configured to mount a hose and a rear portion (44) to be coupled to the fluid pipe (C2); - a body (6) extending longitudinally around the sleeve and fixed to the sleeve, defining a mouth (63) for access to the front part (42) of the sleeve; - a first jaw (10) rotatable between a clamped position and a retracted position about a first rotation axis (A84), said first rotation axis being perpendicular to said longitudinal axis (A2) and offset (D84) from said longitudinal axis (A2), wherein In the clamped position, the first jaw (10) presses the hose (D2) against the front part (42) of the sleeve (4) in a region which is located radially along the longitudinal axis between the longitudinal axis and the first axis of rotation and which is delimited along the longitudinal axis by a boundary plane (P10) which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and is spaced apart from the first axis of rotation by a first distance (d10) which is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis (A2) and is non-zero, and In the retracted position, the first jaw (10) does not press the hose against the front of the sleeve; - a manipulator member (106, 206), accessible from the outside of the body (6), for moving the first jaw between its clamping position and its retracted position, It is characterized in that - The coupling element comprises: a pusher (14) housed in an internal volume (V6) of the body (6) surrounding the sleeve (4) and capable of translation relative to the body along the longitudinal axis (A2); a member (16) for elastically returning the pusher toward its forward position; - the pusher (14) is provided with a first surface (S14) bearing against the first jaw (10); - the first bearing surface (S14) of the pusher is configured to exert a force on the first jaw (10) to move the first jaw from its release position to its clamping position; - said first bearing surface (S14) is arranged opposite to a first axis of rotation (A84) with respect to the longitudinal axis (A2); and - When the first jaw (10) is in its clamping position, the first supporting surface (S14) rests against the first jaw, and the value of the first radial gap (e10) measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the first rotation axis (A84) and the contact point (P100) of the force-bearing surface (S'10) of the first jaw (10) and the first supporting surface (S14) is greater than the value of the first distance (D10).

2. The coupling element according to claim 1, characterized in that The member (16) for elastically returning the pusher (14) to its advanced position is also a member for returning the first jaw (10) to its clamping position.

3. The coupling element according to claim 1, characterized in that A ratio (e10 / d10) between a value of the first radial gap (e10) and a value of the first distance (d10) is between 1.5 and 10.

4. The coupling element according to claim 3, characterized in that A ratio (e10 / d10) between a value of the first radial gap (e10) and a value of the first distance (d10) is between 4 and 6.

5. The coupling element according to claim 4, characterized in that The ratio (e10 / d10) between the value of the first radial gap (e10) and the value of the first distance (d10) is equal to 5.

6. The coupling element according to claim 1, characterized in that - the first coupling element (2) further comprises a second jaw (12) which is rotatable between a clamping position and a retracted position about a second rotation axis (A85) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A2) and offset (d85) from the longitudinal axis (A2), wherein In the clamped position, the second jaw (12) presses the hose (D2) against the front portion (42) of the sleeve (4) in a region which is located radially of the longitudinal axis between the longitudinal axis and the second axis of rotation and which is delimited along the longitudinal axis by a boundary plane (P12) which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and spaced apart from the first axis of rotation by a second distance (d12), which is measured parallel to the longitudinal axis (A2) and is non-zero, and In the retracted position, the second jaw does not press the hose against the front portion of the cannula; - the pusher (14) comprises a second surface (S'14) bearing against the second jaw (12); - the second bearing surface (S'14) of the pusher is configured to exert a force on the second jaw (12) so as to move the second jaw from its retracted position to its clamped position; - said second bearing surface (S'14) is arranged opposite to the second axis of rotation (A85) with respect to the longitudinal axis; and - When the second jaw (12) is in its clamping position, the second supporting surface (S'14) rests against the second jaw, and the value of the second radial gap (e12) measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the first rotation axis (A85) and the contact point (P120) of the force-bearing surface (S'12) of the second jaw (12) and the second supporting surface (S'14) is greater than the value of the second distance (d12).

7. The coupling element according to claim 6, characterized in that The ratio (e12 / d12) between the value of the second radial gap (e12) and the value of the second distance (d12) is between 1.5 and 10.

8. The coupling element according to claim 7, characterized in that The ratio (e12 / d12) between the value of the second radial gap (e12) and the value of the second distance (d12) is between 4 and 6.

9. The coupling element according to claim 8, characterized in that The ratio (e12 / d12) between the value of the second radial gap (e12) and the value of the second distance (d12) is equal to 5.

10. The coupling element according to claim 6, characterized in that The value of the first distance (d10) is equal to the value of the second distance (d12), and the value of the first radial gap (e10) is equal to the value of the second radial gap (e12).

11. A coupling element according to any one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that The pusher (14) includes a protrusion (148) configured to exert a force on the second jaw (12) to move the second jaw from its clamped position to its retracted position.

12. The coupling element according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The manipulation member of the first jaw (10) is a lever (106) fixed to the first jaw.

13. A coupling element according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The manipulation member of the first jaw (10) is a ring (206) which is axially movable relative to the body (6) along the longitudinal axis (A2).

14. Method for producing a coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the body (6) is provided with at least one inner radial guide surface (644, 646); - the pusher (14) is provided with at least one outer radial guide surface (144, 146) configured to engage with the inner radial guide surface in order to guide the pusher during its movement along the longitudinal axis (A2); - the pusher (14) is movable in the passage of the body to a reference position in which the or each outer radial guide surface (144, 146) of the pusher is disengaged from any inner radial guide surface (644, 646) of the body (6), and vice versa; - The method comprises the following steps: a) The body (6) and the pusher (14) are manufactured simultaneously by additive manufacturing, while the pusher is in its reference position.

15. The method for producing a coupling element according to claim 14, wherein - the first coupling element (2) further comprises a second jaw (12) which is rotatable between a clamping position and a retracted position about a second rotation axis (A85) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A2) and offset (d85) from the longitudinal axis (A2), wherein a. in the clamped position, the second jaw (12) presses the hose (D2) against the front portion (42) of the sleeve (4) in a region which is located radially along the longitudinal axis between the longitudinal axis and the second axis of rotation and is delimited along the longitudinal axis by a boundary plane (P12) which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and spaced apart from the first axis of rotation by a second distance (d12), the second distance being measured parallel to the longitudinal axis (A2) and being non-zero, and b. In the retracted position, the second jaw does not press the hose against the front of the sleeve; - the pusher (14) comprises a second surface (S'14) bearing against the second jaw (12); - the second bearing surface (S'14) of the pusher is configured to exert a force on the second jaw (12) so as to move the second jaw from its retracted position to its clamped position; - said second bearing surface (S'14) is arranged opposite to the second axis of rotation (A85) with respect to the longitudinal axis; and - when the second jaw (12) is in its clamping position, the second bearing surface (S'14) abuts against the second jaw, and the value of the second radial clearance (e12) measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the first rotation axis (A85) and the contact point (P120) of the force-bearing surface (S'12) of the second jaw (12) and the second bearing surface (S'14) is greater than the value of the second distance (d12); It is characterized in that The method comprises the following consecutive steps after step a): b) moving the pusher (14) in the body (6) of the coupling element (2) to a position where the radially outer guide surface (144, 146) engages with the inner radial guide surface (644, 646); c) pre-positioning the two jaws (10, 12) in the housing (8); d) engaging a housing (8) equipped with jaws (10, 12) in the body (6) through an opening (O6) provided in the body; e) assembling and screwing screws (94, 95) into the threaded holes (102, 122) of the supporting parts (842, 852) of the housing (8) and the jaws (10, 12), respectively, so that the screws are aligned with the first rotation axis (A84) and the second rotation axis (A85); f) installing a member (16) for elastically returning the pusher (14) in the internal volume (V6) of the body so that it bears against the pusher; g) Assembling the sleeve (4) in the pusher (14) and the body (6) with the elastic return member (16) resting against the sleeve.

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