Plug connector for connecting lines of liquid or gaseous medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a reversibly releasable coupling for a plug connection on a pipe (3) and a hose for connection to a tubular plug (1) having at least one latching shoulder or latching edge (2) which is at least partially circumferential on the outer circumference. The at least one locking element (5) assumes a locking position when the plug (1) is completely pushed in, in which locking position the locking section (7) pivots towards the plug (1) and securely engages behind the locking shoulder or the locking edge (2) of the plug (1) by means of the locking edge. Here, the locking section (7) lies completely within the locking ring (6), which is thus released in the axial direction. The elastic element (8) axially loads the locking ring (6) from the open position into a locking position completely overlapping the locking section (7). The locking element (5) is pivotable about a pivot axis (S) relative to the coupling sleeve (4) between an open position and a locked position. The locking element has a rod-shaped section (9) extending in the circumferential direction of the coupling sleeve (4), which rod-shaped section is locked relative to the coupling sleeve (4) in the open position. When the plug (1) is inserted, the section (9) is released from the latching position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a reversibly detachable coupling element for plug connections on pipes and hoses according to the preamble of claim 1 . Background Art

[0002] DE102005044751A1 discloses, for example, a plug connector for a locked and sealed plug connection structure of a media pipeline. Here, the plug connector includes a receiving part having a receiving opening for an insertion section on the pipeline side. A retaining device and a sealing device are provided in the region of the receiving opening for locking or sealing relative to the peripheral surface of the insertion section. The receiving part includes two parts that enclose the receiving opening, wherein the retaining device is arranged on the inner part. The inner part can move axially between a first position and a second position relative to the base part, wherein, in the first position, a free internal cross-section is retained in the region of the retaining device in cooperation with the base part, and the internal cross-section is greater than / equal to the external cross-section of the peripheral surface of the insertion section. In the second position offset along the insertion direction, the retaining device is radially inwardly engaged against the peripheral surface of the insertion section.

[0003] A reversibly detachable fluid line coupling is disclosed in WO2021185419A1, the latching state of which can be easily checked automatically and preferably visually. The coupling comprises a coupling sleeve, a locking element and a coupling plug having a locking shoulder, wherein, when the plug is fully pushed in, the locking element occupies a locking position, in which the locking section pivots toward the plug and cooperates fixedly with the latching shoulder or latching edge of the plug. Here, the outer side of the locking section moves to the inside of the coupling sleeve so that the outer side is located in the locking ring. The locking element has an operating surface and / or a signal surface that is only visible in the unlocked state of the coupling. Once the locking element is in the locked position, the locking ring can be axially adjusted from the open position to a locked position that completely overlaps with the locking element by at least one elastic element. Summary of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a device which consists predominantly of plastic parts and which nevertheless ensures reliable locking of the fluid line and its tightness under temperature loads.

[0005] This object is achieved by the device according to the invention.

[0006] To this end, the device according to the invention is characterized in that the locking element can be adjusted relative to the coupling sleeve between an open position and a locked position and has at least one rod-shaped section starting from the locking element, which is locked relative to the coupling sleeve in the open position, wherein the rod-shaped section extends away from the locking section into the insertion path of a locking shoulder or a locking edge on the plug and is released from the locked position at the latest when the plug is fully inserted.

[0007] Preferably, the locking element is pivotable relative to the coupling sleeve between an open position and a locked position about a tangential pivot axis, which facilitates the possibility of exerting a retaining effect on the locking ring via the locking element.

[0008] A favorable embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the pivot axis of the locking element is located in the middle section of the locking element and the section opposite to the locking section with respect to the pivot axis has a bevel or a protrusion, and the locking ring has a protrusion on the inner side of the locking ring, and when the locking ring overcomes the action of the at least one elastic element and is pushed into the open position, the protrusion radially acts on the bevel or the protrusion of the locking element.

[0009] According to another variant of an embodiment of the present invention, in this variant, the locking element and the locking ring are held in an open position relative to each other, the pivot axis of the locking element is also located in the middle section of the locking element and the section opposite to the locking section with respect to the pivot axis has a radially outwardly protruding protrusion, and the locking ring has a shoulder on its inner side, which acts axially on the protrusion when the locking ring overcomes the action of the elastic element and is pushed into the open position.

[0010] For a compact design of the coupling part, an embodiment is advantageous in which the rod-shaped section extending from the locking element extends in the circumferential direction of the coupling sleeve.

[0011] Preferably, the coupling sleeve has a latching nose or a latching edge on the outside and the rod-shaped section engages behind the latching nose or the latching edge in the open position of the locking element.

[0012] According to other embodiments of the present invention, the locking ring acts on the locking element in its open position and holds the locking element in the open position. Alternatively or additionally, the locking element also holds the locking ring in its open position in its open position.

[0013] Preferably, alternatively or in addition to the features of the preceding paragraph, this embodiment is characterized in that the locking element, preferably with a locking nose pointing radially outward at the height of the locking section, engages at the rear in the open position with the upper edge of the locking ring or engages in an opening in the upper surrounding edge section and axially fixes the locking ring.

[0014] A further embodiment of the coupling according to the invention is characterized in that at least two locking elements are arranged distributed preferably evenly around the circumference of the coupling sleeve, wherein the rod-shaped sections of adjacent locking elements overlap with their end sections.

[0015] A further optional inventive feature is provided in that a projection is arranged on the coupling sleeve at the level of the middle section of the locking element, against which projection the inner side of the middle section of the locking element bears and which thus defines the pivot axis.

[0016] In order to be able to attach the coupling element quickly and without tools to the end of a tube or hose, an advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that a latching connection exists between the coupling sleeve and the tube or hose.

[0017] Preferably, at least one latching edge is formed on the coupling sleeve, which latching edge engages behind an undercut on the pipe or hose.

[0018] An anti-twist protection can advantageously be provided between the tube or hose and the coupling sleeve.

[0019] Another particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that at least one latch arm is arranged on the locking ring, the free end of which facing the plug can be elastically deflected radially outwards, wherein the free end is supported on the latching edge of the coupling sleeve in the open position of the locking ring, and wherein, in the locked position of the locking element, the free end is disengaged from the coupling sleeve by the locking element. The locking mechanism cannot be triggered unintentionally, for example by inadvertent contact with the locking ring. Due to the design according to the invention, the latch arm supports the locking ring directly on the coupling sleeve in the open / unlocked state and thus relieves the locking element, which no longer has to additionally support the locking ring.

[0020] Preferably, such a coupling element comprises a coupling sleeve having at least one latching edge oriented toward the tube for supporting the free ends of the latching arms, wherein the latching arms hold the locking ring in their open position.

[0021] Preferably, an embodiment of the coupling according to the invention is provided in which the coupling sleeve, the locking element and the locking ring and, if applicable, the elastic element are at least predominantly made of plastic. Preferably, the components listed above are made entirely of plastic. Since, due to the above-described design of the coupling, no plastic parts are deformed in the open position and in the plugged-in state, creep of the components under temperature load can be avoided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] In order to better understand the present invention, the present invention is explained in more detail with the help of the following drawings.

[0023] They are shown in a very simplified schematic diagram:

[0024] Figure 1 A partially sectioned side view shows a first specific embodiment of a coupling according to the invention in accordance with the VDA standard in an open position.

[0025] Figure 2 Show according to Figure 1 in the docked and locked position.

[0026] Figure 3 A further embodiment of a coupling according to the invention according to the VDA standard is shown in a partially sectioned side view and in the plugged-in and locked position.

[0027] Figure 4 A partially cut-away side view shows a further embodiment of a coupling according to the invention in accordance with the SAE standard in an open position.

[0028] Figure 5 The detail view shows an enlarged scale the latching connection of the coupling sleeve and the tube or hose.

[0029] Figure 6 Show Figure 4 A partially cutaway side view of an embodiment of the invention is provided to illustrate additional details.

[0030] Figure 7 An exploded view of a pipe end and a coupling sleeve of a further embodiment of a coupling part according to the invention is shown in accordance with the SAE standard.

[0031] Figure 8 A perspective view of a tube end according to an embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0032] Fig. 9 The embodiment according to the present invention is shown. Figure 8 A perspective view of a coupling sleeve for use with a tube end is shown.

[0033] Fig.10A locking ring according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown in a perspective view.

[0034] Fig.11 A perspective view of two mutually opposing locking elements according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown, which are used to lock the locking element according to Fig. 9 The coupling sleeve and according to Fig.10 Use with locking ring.

[0035] Fig.12 Shown in use Figures 8 to 11 A longitudinal section through an embodiment of the invention in which the plug is partially inserted and in the plane of the inner protrusion of the locking ring.

[0036] Fig.13 Shown by Fig.12 A longitudinal section of an embodiment of the invention in a plane having at least one snap arm.

[0037] Fig.14 Shown in use Figures 8 to 11 A longitudinal section through an embodiment of the invention with the plug fully inserted and locked and in the plane of the inner protrusion of the locking ring.

[0038] Fig.15 Shown by Fig.14 A longitudinal section of an embodiment of the invention in a plane having at least one snap arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] First of all, it should be noted that in the different described embodiments, identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, wherein the disclosure contained in the entire description can be transferred to the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component names in a meaningful manner. The positional specifications selected in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., also refer to the directly described and shown figures and these positional specifications are transferred to the new positions in a meaningful manner in the event of a change in position.

[0040] Description of the accompanying drawings:

[0041] exist Figure 1 , a first embodiment of a reversibly detachable coupling according to the invention is shown by way of example, as it can be used for a plug connection on a pipe 3 or a hose. By means of the coupling, a tubular plug 1, which is here by way of example present in an embodiment required by the regulations of the VDA (Association of the Automotive Industry), can be connected to a pipe 3 or a hose in a sealing and lockable manner. Such a plug 1 has at least one latching shoulder or latching edge 2 which is at least partially circumferential on the outer circumference and which is preferably formed by an inclined surface rising from the outer circumference on the plug side and a latching surface adjoining the inclined surface with respect to the outer circumference on the plug side.

[0042] The coupling sleeve 4 is mounted on the pipe 3 or is integrally formed on the end of the pipe, the plug 1 is inserted into the coupling sleeve, and the plug is then held in the coupling sleeve to prevent removal by at least one locking element 5. The locking ring 6 surrounds the coupling sleeve 4 and the locking element 5 held in or on the coupling sleeve and can be moved axially along the coupling sleeve 4 between an open position and a locked position, wherein at least one elastic element 8, preferably a helical spring which also surrounds the coupling sleeve 4, loads the locking ring 6 in the direction of the locked position.

[0043] Figure 1 The arrangement of the plug 1 and the coupling is shown, which in the delivery state, at the beginning of the establishment of the sealed plug connection, comprises at least a coupling sleeve 4, at least one locking element 5, a locking ring 6 and at least one elastic element 8. The plug 1 has been inserted into the coupling sleeve 4 to such an extent that the projection 22 is pushed into the complementary recess 23 of the coupling sleeve 4 on its outer side and thus provides a rotation protection. Here, the projection 22 can overlap with the latching shoulder or latching edge 2 on the plug 1. The front end of the plug 1 is already covered by a seal 21, preferably a profile lip seal, which is held in a receiving groove in the front edge area of ​​the tube 3 or hose. If necessary, one or more O-rings can also be used, which have a protection against rotation and have a reduced engagement force. This is provided in particular in couplings corresponding to the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) embodiment.

[0044] The coupling sleeve 4 is placed as a separate component onto the front end of the tube 3 and is preferably fixed there by means of snap connections 16, 17. At least one snap-in nose or snap-in edge 16 protruding radially inwards is formed in the lower edge region of the coupling sleeve 4 and, if necessary, at the lower end of at least one elastically radially deflectable snap hook 24, such as at Figure 3 The latching edge 16 engages behind an undercut 17 or limiting latching projection on the tube 3 or hose and in this way fixes the coupling sleeve 4 in the axial direction.

[0045] The latching edge 16 can be designed to be completely circumferential or can be arranged by sections on elastically deflectable latching hooks 24 distributed around the circumference of the coupling sleeve 4, as in Figure 7As can be clearly seen in the exploded view of . At the height of the latching edge 16 or at the lower end of the latching hook 24, a shoulder 25 is arranged to protrude radially outward, and if necessary, a partial block thereof or a group of protrusions is arranged at each latching hook 24. In order to fix the latching connection before it is opened, the distance between the inner wall of the locking ring 6, especially its section extending to the height of the latching connection, and the shoulder 25 is smaller than the overlap of the latching edge 16 and the undercut 17 at the tube 3 or hose, so that the radial deviation of the latching edge 16 from releasing the latching edge 16 is prevented by the previous stop at the locking ring 6. In particular, Figure 5 The enlarged detail illustration of the structure and the described size ratios can be clearly seen.

[0046] Just as a rotation lock can also be provided between the plug 1 and the coupling sleeve 4, there is also the possibility of providing a rotation lock between the coupling sleeve 4 and the tube 3 or hose. Figure 7 . A guide ridge 26 extending in the longitudinal direction of the tube 3 is arranged between the nose-shaped sections of the undercut 17 distributed circumferentially on the end of the tube 3. The snap hooks 24 on the tube-side end of the lower part of the coupling sleeve 4 are distributed around the circumference of the coupling sleeve 4, wherein a distance is maintained between adjacent snap hooks 24, which serves as a guide gap 27 and the guide ridge 26 engages in the guide gap when the coupling sleeve 4 is sleeved on the tube end. The discrete angular positions between the tube 3 and the coupling sleeve 4 can be selectively preset by the angular spacing and number between the guide ridges 26 or guide gaps 27. Here, the orientation of the coupling head in the circumferential direction should be able to be selected as freely as possible. The locking geometry at the medium-guiding socket can be preset in the injection mold during manufacturing so that a free angular orientation is possible.

[0047] Figure 1 Also shown is one of the locking elements 5, preferably in its open position, in which the plug 1 can be introduced unhindered into the coupling sleeve 4. For this purpose, the axially extending locking section 7 is preferably pivoted away from the plug 1 by means of a latching edge protruding radially inwards in the direction of the plug 1.

[0048] On the outside of the locking element 5 , preferably at the level of the locking section 7 , radially outwardly pointing locking noses 18 are formed, which are located at the Figure 1 In the open position shown in FIG. 1 , the upper edge 19 of the locking ring 6 engages behind. In an alternative embodiment, an opening can also be provided in the upper peripheral edge section 20 of the locking ring 6 for each locking element 5, into which the latching nose 18 engages. In this way, the locking ring 6 is axially fixed by the locking element 5 in its open position moved in the direction of the tube 3 and against the action of the elastic element 8.

[0049] But conversely, the locking ring 6 can also act on the locking element 5 in its open position and thus hold the locking element in the open position. This function can be provided in addition to or alternatively to the holding effect of the locking element 5 on the locking ring 6.

[0050] The pivot axis S of the locking element 5 extends approximately in its middle section and tangentially to the coupling sleeve 4. With respect to the pivot axis S, axially opposite the locking section 7, the locking element 5 has a section 11 which extends as an inclined surface or has a projection which rises axially away from the pivot axis S. The locking ring 6 has a projection 12 on its inner side at a height directly opposite the section 11 in the open position, which radially acts on the inclined surface or projection of the locking element 5 when the locking ring 6 is moved into the open position against the action of the elastic element 8.

[0051] The locking element 5 is further fixed in the open position by at least one rod-shaped section 9 on the locking element 5, which extends in the circumferential direction of the coupling sleeve 4 and partially surrounds the coupling sleeve. The rod-shaped section 9 is locked relative to the coupling sleeve 4 in the open position of the coupling. For this purpose, the coupling sleeve 4 has a latching nose 10 or a latching edge on its outer side in the area where the outer end of the rod-shaped section 9 of the locking element 5 is in its open position, and when the locking element 5 is in its open position, the latching nose or latching edge is engaged by the end of the rod-shaped section 9 of the locking element 5 in a latching manner at the back. Therefore, additional precautions are taken so that the coupling is reliably kept open as long as no plug 1 is inserted.

[0052] During the insertion of the plug 1 into the coupling, but at the latest as soon as the plug 1 is in Figure 2 In the position shown, at the maximum approach to the end of the tube 3 or hose, the latching of the locking element 5 and the coupling sleeve 4 or the locking ring 6 is released and the locking element 5 reaches its locking position and subsequently exerts the desired holding effect on the plug 1 .

[0053] During the insertion of the plug 1, the locking between the rod section 9 of the locking element 5 and the coupling sleeve 4 is released in such a way that the rod section 9 extending away from the locking section 7 into the insertion path of the latching shoulder or latching edge 2 of the plug 1 is released from the latching position by the latching shoulder or latching edge 2 at the latest when the plug 1 is fully inserted and is driven downwards towards the pipe end. Figure 2 In this case, the latching shoulder or latching edge 2 projects through a notch 32 which is machined into the wall of the coupling sleeve 4 in the region of the outermost end of the shank section 9 of the locking element 5, or the section 9 projects with a radially projecting projection through the notch 32 towards the plug 1. The latter embodiment offers the advantage that the notch 32 forms a forced guide for the shank section 9.

[0054] exist Figure 2 In this locked position, the axially extending locking section 7 of the locking element 5 (the locking section is in Figure 2 The locking ring 6 is pivoted (located in the recess of the coupling sleeve 4 and therefore not visible) towards the plug 1. The locking section 7, with its radially inwardly directed locking edge, firmly engages behind the locking shoulder or locking edge 2 of the plug 1. As a result, the outer side of the locking section 7 is also displaced with its locking nose 18 in the locked position in the direction of the interior of the coupling sleeve 4 so far that the radially outer limit of the locking section 7 is completely located within the inner side of the locking ring 6. The locking ring 6 can thus be displaced axially relative to the coupling sleeve 4 without hindrance. In particular, the locking ring 6 can be displaced away from the end of the tube 3 towards the plug 1 by the action of the elastic element 8, covering the locking nose 18 in the final position of the axial displacement and thus holding the locking element 5 in the locked position.

[0055] Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of a coupling with two locking elements 5 lying opposite one another in the circumferential direction is shown. Here, the rod sections 9 extend toward one another in the circumferential direction. In the region of the outermost ends of the rod sections 9 of the locking elements 5, adjacent notches 32 are machined into the wall of the coupling sleeve 4 to form a connection with the coupling sleeve 4. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The rod-shaped sections are guided in the same manner as has already been explained. In each case, the position of the locking element 5 is thereby fixed and a pivoting about the tangential axis S is also supported.

[0056] Figure 4 The partially cut-away side view corresponds to Figure 1 A further embodiment of a coupling according to the invention is shown, which is now used in particular for the sealing and releasably lockable connection of lines carrying a medium in accordance with SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) regulations.

[0057] In order to provide a feasible solution for locking the plug 1 in the coupling sleeve 4 by means of fewer contact points on the plug 1, it is provided that the outermost ends of the rod-shaped sections 9 overlap each other in the circumferential direction for the circumferentially adjacent locking elements 5, preferably evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. A respective one of the contact points on the plug 1 can act on the two locking elements 5 via the notches 32 in the coupling sleeve 4. Alternatively, the radial projections on the rod-shaped sections 9 of the locking elements 5 can extend through the notches 32 into the path of the radially protruding contact points on the plug 1, so as to prevent the contact points from being blocked. Figure 4 The open position shown in the figure pivots to the VDA implementation scheme. Figure 2 Due to the overlapping arrangement of the sections 9 of the locking elements 5 , two adjacent locking elements 5 are actuated simultaneously.

[0058] Figure 4 A special embodiment is shown which has only two locking elements lying opposite one another in the circumferential direction, which can be pivoted together by means of only one contact point on the plug 1 in order to thus achieve locking of the plug 1 in the coupling sleeve 4 .

[0059] In addition, Figure 4 In FIG. 5 , it can also be seen that the locking ring 6 acts on the locking element 5 in a slightly different manner. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The locking ring 6 has only a narrow inner shoulder in order to provide an annular active surface for the elastic element 8 , whereas the corresponding shoulder 14 is pulled radially further inwards than is necessary for this function of supporting the elastic element 8 .

[0060] With the innermost edge region of the shoulder 14, the locking ring 6 in its lowermost position (i.e. the position closest to the end of the tube 3 or hose, i.e. the open position) acts on the radial projection 13 at the lower end of the locking element 5 and presses the projection 13 in the axial direction against the tube 3. The locking element 5 is thus pivoted about the tangential pivot axis S and the upper locking section 7 is pivoted radially outwards with the inner latching nose oriented toward the plug 1 and the outer latching nose 18, which in the open position radially protrudes beyond the upper edge of the locking ring 6 and is thus held in the open position it assumes against the action of the elastic element 8 and thus in the open position of the entire coupling assembly. Although not all locking elements 9 have to have such a projection 13 due to the overlap of the rod-shaped sections 9 of adjacent locking elements 5, this is still advantageous because of the balanced force introduction and balanced reaction forces acting on the locking ring 6.

[0061] For both implementations, not only Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 7 VDA couplings and Figures 4 to 6 The SAE couplings of the present invention have in common the preferred design of the outer side of the coupling sleeve 4 in order to define the pivot axis S of the locking element 5. For this purpose, a discrete radial projection 27 is arranged as a rotation point on the outer wall of the coupling sleeve 4 at the level of the middle section of the locking element 5. Adjacent to the locking section 7 with its latching nose 18, the middle section of the locking element 5 rests with its inner side on the projection 27, which thus defines the pivot axis S of the locking element 5. Instead of discrete projections distributed over the circumference of the coupling sleeve 4 at the location of the locking element 5, a circumferential groove-shaped projection can also be provided.

[0062] Figure 8 The front end of the tube 3 according to an embodiment of the invention is shown, which is designed for use with, for example, Fig. 9 The coupling sleeve 4 shown in FIG.

[0063] As described above, the coupling sleeve 4 is again inserted as a separate component onto the front end of the tube 3 and is preferably fixed there by a latching connection having a latching edge 16 on the coupling sleeve and a latching nose 17 on the tube end. At least one latching nose or latching edge 16 projecting radially inwards is also formed here at the lower end of at least one elastically radially displaceable snap hook 24 and engages behind an undercut 17 or a limiting latching projection on the tube 3 or hose and thus fixes the coupling sleeve 4 in the axial direction. The details of this latching connection are preferably implemented in accordance with the features already explained above, preferably also with an anti-twist portion having a guide ridge 26 extending in the longitudinal direction of the tube 3, which cooperates with a guide gap 27 formed between adjacent snap hooks 24. According to Fig.10 The locking ring 6 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 again has at least one projection 12 on its inner side for each locking element 5 (as in FIG. Fig.11 ), which cooperates with the locking element at least when the locking ring 6 is pushed into the open position against the action of the elastic element 8. Now, adjacent to the projection in the circumferential direction, a latch arm 28 is arranged, which has a radially elastically deflectable free end 29, which is formed on the end of the latch arm 28 facing the plug 1. If necessary, the latch arm 28 can be fully elastically pivoted about the tangential axis in order to radially deflect the free end 29.

[0064] When the locking ring 6 is in its maximum retracted position, in which the coupling is in the open or unlocked state, the free end 29 of the latch arm 28 is supported directly on the coupling sleeve 4. For this purpose, at least one latching edge 30 oriented toward the tube 3 is formed on the coupling sleeve 4.

[0065] exist Figures 1 to 7 In the first explained embodiment, the locking element 5 is supported at the end of the rod-shaped section 9 against pivoting inwards towards the plug 1 (locked), and the spring-prestressed locking ring 6 is locked by the locking element 5 until it is unlocked by the plug 1 during insertion into the coupling sleeve 4. By being supported on the coupling sleeve 4 by means of the snap arms 28, the locking element 5 is relieved of load and does not need to additionally support the locking ring 6, and the coupling is secured against unintentional triggering when the plug 1 is not inserted.

[0066] Fig.12 The not yet fully inserted state of the plug 1 is shown in a longitudinal section in a plane through the middle section of the locking element 5. The plug 1 has not yet acted on the locking element 5, which has not yet engaged the latching edge 2 on the plug 1 from behind. Fig.13 Shown in Fig.12, but now in a plane twisted about the longitudinal axis, which extends through the snap-in arms 28. The free ends 29 of the snap-in arms are supported on the snap-in edges 30 of the coupling sleeve 4 and hold the locking ring 6 in its rear open position against the action of the compression spring 8. A holding action by the locking element 5 is not necessary here, but can be provided as an additional fixing according to other embodiments.

[0067] If plug 1 is now fully inserted, as in Fig.14 , the rod-shaped section 9 of the locking element 5 is then lifted radially outwards by the plug 1, so that the locking element 5 preferably acts on the latching arms 28 in the radial direction outwards by means of the rod-shaped section 9. The free ends 29 of the latching arms 28 are thus also deflected outwards and pressed out of the support on the coupling sleeve 4, that is, out of engagement with the latching edges 30 of the coupling sleeve 3. The assembly is thus unlocked, and the locking element 5 can then be lifted by the latching nose 10 and can be pivoted inwards to lock the plug 1, and the locking ring 6 can now also be moved axially in the direction of the plug 1 into a closed or locked position. Preferably, this movement is achieved by the action of the compression spring 8 on the locking ring 6.

[0068] As in Fig.15 As can also be seen in the longitudinal section of , in the corresponding embodiment of the coupling sleeve 4 with an additional locking edge 31 closer to the insertion opening, the latch arm 28 also has the additional function of axially fixing the locking ring 6 even in the closed or locked state of the coupling.

[0069] It also applies to all embodiments according to the invention that as many components as possible are at least predominantly made of plastic. This applies in particular to the coupling sleeve 4, the locking element 5 and the locking ring 6. For the elastic element 8, there is also the possibility of making the elastic element from an elastically deformable plastic and having the desired spring constant.

[0070] These embodiments illustrate possible implementation variants, wherein it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the particularly illustrated implementation variants of the present invention, but in fact different combinations of the individual implementation variants with one another are also possible and this variation possibility is within the capabilities of a person skilled in the art based on the teaching of the technical means of the present invention.

[0071] The scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the claims should be interpreted with reference to the description and the drawings. Individual features or combinations of features from the different embodiments shown and described can themselves be independent inventive solutions. The tasks on which the independent inventive solutions are based can be found in the description.

[0072] Reference numerals list

[0073] 1 plug

[0074] 2 Locking edges

[0075] 3 Tubes

[0076] 4 coupling sleeve

[0077] 5 Locking elements

[0078] 6 Locking ring

[0079] 7 Locking Segment

[0080] 8 Elastic elements

[0081] 9 rod-shaped segments

[0082] 10 card lock nose

[0083] 11Protrusions / bevels

[0084] 12 protrusions

[0085] 13 radial protrusion

[0086] 14 Shoulders

[0087] 15 End section

[0088] 16 locking edges

[0089] 17 Side concave

[0090] 18 card lock nose

[0091] 19 Upper edge

[0092] 20 Upper surrounding edge section

[0093] 21 Seals

[0094] 22 Bump

[0095] 23Gap

[0096] 24 snap hooks

[0097] 25 Shoulder

[0098] 26 Boot Ridge

[0099] 27 protrusions

[0100] 28 snap arm

[0101] 29 Free end of snap arm

[0102] 30 Locking edge of coupling sleeve

[0103] 31 Additional locking edge of the coupling sleeve

[0104] 32 gaps

[0105] S pivot axis

Claims

1. A reversibly detachable coupling for a plug connection on a tube (3) and a hose, for connection to a tubular plug (1), the plug having at least one latching shoulder or latching edge (2) at least partially surrounding the outer circumference, the latching shoulder or latching edge preferably being formed by an inclined surface rising from the outer circumference on the plug side and a latching surface adjoining behind the inclined surface with respect to the outer circumference on the plug side, the coupling comprising at least one coupling sleeve (4) arranged on the tube (3) or the hose, at least one locking element (5) and a locking ring (6) surrounding the coupling sleeve (4), wherein: When the plug (1) is fully inserted, the locking element (5) assumes a locking position (FIG. 2), in which the axially extending locking section (7) of the locking element (5) is pivoted toward the plug (1) and, with a radially inwardly directed locking edge, is fixedly engaged behind a locking shoulder or a locking edge (2) of the plug (1), and wherein, in the locking position, the outer side of the locking section (7) is displaced toward the interior of the coupling sleeve (4) to such an extent that the outer side of the locking section is located in the locking ring (6) and the locking ring is axially released, and wherein, once the locking element (5) is in the locking position, the locking ring (6) can be released by at least one A spring element (8) is axially adjustable from an open position (FIG. 1, FIG. 3) to a locking position (FIG. 2) in which it completely overlaps the locking section (7), characterized in that the locking element (5) is adjustable relative to the coupling sleeve (4) between an open position (FIG. 1, FIG. 3) and a locking position (FIG. 2) and has at least one rod-shaped section (9) extending from the locking element (5) and latching relative to the coupling sleeve (4) in the open position, wherein the rod-shaped section (9) extends away from the locking section (7) into the insertion path of a latching shoulder or latching edge (2) on the plug (1) and is released from the latching position at the latest when the plug (1) is fully inserted.

2. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking element (5) is pivotable relative to the coupling sleeve (4) about a tangential pivot axis (S) between an open position (FIG. 1, FIG. 3) and a locked position (FIG. 2).

3. The coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that: The pivot axis (S) of the locking element (5) is located in a middle section of the locking element, and a section (11) opposite to the locking section (7) with respect to the pivot axis (S) has a bevel or a protrusion, and the locking ring (6) has a protrusion (12) on the inner side of the locking ring, and when the locking ring (6) overcomes the action of the elastic element (8) and is pushed into the open position, the protrusion radially acts on the bevel or the protrusion of the locking element (5).

4. The coupling according to claim 2, characterized in that: The pivot axis (S) of the locking element (5) is located in a middle section of the locking element, and a section (11) opposite to the locking section (7) with respect to the pivot axis (S) has a protrusion (13) protruding radially outward, and the locking ring (6) has a shoulder (14) on the inner side of the locking ring, and when the locking ring (6) is pushed into the open position against the action of the elastic element (8), the shoulder acts axially on the protrusion (13).

5. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: A rod-shaped section (9) originating from the locking element (5) extends in the circumferential direction of the coupling sleeve (4).

6. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: The coupling sleeve (4) has a latching nose (10) or a latching edge on the outer side, and the rod-shaped section (9) engages behind the latching nose (10) or the latching edge in the open position of the locking element (5).

7. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking ring (6) acts on the locking element (5) in its open position (FIG. 1, FIG. 3) and holds the locking element in the open position, and / or the locking element (5) holds the locking ring (6) in its open position in the open position of the locking element.

8. The coupling according to claim 7, characterized in that: The locking element (5) preferably engages with a radially outwardly pointing locking nose (18) at the level of the locking section (7) in the open position from behind an upper edge (19) of the locking ring (6) or engages in an opening in an upper circumferential edge section (20) and fixes the locking ring (6) axially.

9. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least two locking elements (5) are preferably arranged uniformly distributed around the circumference of the coupling sleeve (4), wherein the shaft sections (9) of adjacent locking elements (5) overlap with their end sections (15).

10. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: A projection (27) is arranged on the coupling sleeve (4) at the level of the middle section of the locking element (5), against which the inner side of the middle section of the locking element (5) rests and thus defines the pivot axis (S).

11. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: A latching connection (16, 17) exists between the coupling sleeve (4) and the tube (3) or hose.

12. The coupling according to claim 11, characterized in that At least one latching edge (16) is formed on the coupling sleeve (4) and engages behind an undercut (17) on the tube (3) or hose.

13. The coupling according to claim 11, characterized in that: A rotation prevention device is provided between the tube (3) or hose and the coupling sleeve (4).

14. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: At least one latching arm (28) is arranged on the locking ring (6), the free end (29) of the latching arm facing the plug (1) being elastically deflectable radially outwards, wherein the free end (29) is supported on a latching edge (30) of the coupling sleeve (4) in the open position of the locking ring (6), and wherein in the locked position of the locking element (5), the free end (29) is disengaged from the coupling sleeve (4) by the locking element (5).

15. The coupling according to claim 14, characterized in that The coupling sleeve (4) has at least one latching edge (30) pointing toward the tube (3) for supporting the free end (29) of the latching arm (28), and the latching arm (28) holds the locking ring (6) in its open position in the open position of the latching arm.

16. The coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that: The coupling sleeve (4), the locking element (5) and the locking ring (6), and optionally also the elastic element (8), are at least predominantly made of plastic.

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