Plug coupling with leakage indicator for fluid lines

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug coupling (100) for a fluid line system, in particular for a compressed air brake of a motor vehicle, comprising a coupling part (102) and a retaining part (104) for a plug part (106). The plug part (106) can be inserted into a receiving opening (108) of the coupling part (102) in a plug direction (E) by means of a plug axis in a circumferential sealing manner, the plug coupling (100) has a receiving opening (108) and can be locked by means of a radially elastic holding part (104) which projects radially into the receiving opening (108), on one hand, in a partially plugged, incompletely sealed pre-latching position of the plug coupling (100) and on the other hand, in a fully plugged, completely pressure-tight, completely sealed fully-latching position of the plug coupling (100), a release opposite to the insertion direction (E) is prevented. In order to form a pre-latching position and a fully latching position, the retaining part (104) has at least two axially spaced teeth (110a, 110b) and can be moved relative to the receiving opening (108) radially between a locking position and a release position relative to the coupling part (102). The invention further relates to a release tool (118) for such a plug coupling (100), comprising a gripping body (172) extending along a longitudinal axis (170) and an expansion body (174) adjoining the gripping body (172), the gripping body (172) being elastically deformable about the longitudinal axis (170) and being substantially rigid in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis (170).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a plug-in coupling for a fluid pipeline system, in particular for a compressed air brake of a motor vehicle, which comprises a coupling component and a retaining component for the plug-in component. The plug-in component can be inserted into a receiving opening of the coupling component in a circumferentially sealed manner with a plug shaft in the plug direction. By means of a radially elastic retaining component that radially extends into the receiving opening, the plug-in component to be inserted can be locked in a pre-latching position of a partial plug of the plug-in coupling that is not completely sealed and in a completely pressure-tightly sealed fully latching position of the full plug of the plug-in coupling on the one hand, to prevent loosening in the opposite direction of the plug direction. In order to form the pre-latching position and the fully latching position, the retaining component has at least two axially spaced tooth structures configured to engage from the rear at least one retaining edge configured at the plug-in component. The retaining element can be moved relative to the receiving opening in the radial direction relative to the coupling element between a locking position, in which the plug element is locked, and a release position, in which the plug element is released.

[0002] The invention further relates to a release tool for a plug-in coupling as described above for transferring a retaining element from a locked position into a released position. Background Art

[0003] A plug coupling for a pressurized medium system is known from EP 0 913 618 A1. In this plug coupling, the plug component is first introduced into the receiving opening to the pre-latching position, wherein in this position, the plug coupling cannot seal the system pressure. Thus, when the plug component is not fully inserted, a signal in the form of a controlled escape of fluid is generated, which signal can be particularly felt audibly. For the fully sealed arrangement of the plug component, the plug component is transferred to the fully latched position in the plug direction via the pre-latching position. In this position, the plug component is sealed against the inner circumferential wall of the plug component with its plug shaft. In order to lock the plug component, EP 0 913 618 A1 is provided, using a multi-piece retaining element, which has two axially spaced retaining edges, so that the plug component can be locked in the coupling component not only in the pre-latching position but also in the fully latched position. In known plug-in couplings, it has been proven to be disadvantageous that the plug-in coupling cannot be unclamped non-destructively, which is particularly costly to reassemble. In addition, for such plug-in connections, it is not possible to approach the retaining portion from the outside, thereby inspection and maintenance are also accompanied by obstacles.

[0004] Another plug-in coupling is known from EP 1 714 068 B1. This plug-in coupling has a joint body with molded retaining elements extending axially in the direction of the plug and configured as latching arms. It is known from EP 1 714 068 B1 that the retaining arms are transferred from the locking position to the radially expanded release position by means of a tool. In practice, when using a release tool, a large radial space is required perpendicular to the receiving opening, so that the space required for using the release tool is insufficient, especially during disassembly. In addition, due to the axial latching arms as retaining elements, the plug-in coupling is easily affected by dirt and contamination. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a plug-in coupling or a plug-in connection which overcomes the disadvantages known from the prior art, in particular reduces the complexity in use and improves operational safety.

[0006] This object is achieved by a plug-in coupling having the features of claim 1. Since the retaining part is designed to be radially elastic and can be moved radially relative to the receiving opening between a locking position, which locks the plug-in part, and a release position, which releases the plug-in part, reassembly is possible. In particular, for maintenance purposes, such as inspection and / or replacement of worn parts, in the embodiment according to the invention, it is not necessary to damage the parts of the plug-in coupling.

[0007] Furthermore, by differentiating between a pre-latching position of a partial plug of the plug coupling, which is not completely sealed, and a fully latched position of the full plug of the plug coupling, which is completely pressure-tightly sealed, the fitter is informed of the assembly position by means of two significant force increases during the insertion process, when the pre-latching position and the fully latched position are respectively crossed. Furthermore, the pre-latching position thus provides a loss protection against the plug part falling out of the coupling part, in that at least one toothed structure formed on the retaining part can engage the retaining edge of the plug part from behind.

[0008] According to the invention, the pre-latching position has the following advantages in addition to the loss protection: Due to the intentionally incomplete seal, the fluid to be guided by the plug-in coupling can escape in a controlled manner. The controlled leakage allows early detection and error avoidance, especially after the start of operation, thus improving the installation reliability.

[0009] Due to the axially adjacent arrangement of the toothed structures, the corresponding toothed structures can be designed structurally according to the application requirements. In particular, the toothed structures for the latching connection for locking the plug part in the pre-latching position can be designed differently, in particular more material-saving, than the toothed structures for the latching connection for locking the plug part in the fully latching position. Expediently, at least one retaining edge of the plug part to be assembled is designed corresponding to the toothed structure so that the toothed structure can engage the at least one retaining edge from the rear when the latching connection is formed.

[0010] In an advantageous embodiment, the retaining part has two radially elastic spring arms. Preferably, the spring arms are connected to each other via a connecting section on one side. Starting from the connecting section, the spring arms extend to the free ends respectively. In order to advantageously lock the plug shaft, the spring arms extend into the receiving opening in the relaxed static state so that the plug part can be locked in the pre-latching position and the fully latched position. In order to provide non-destructive release, this embodiment is particularly provided that in the radially elastically expanded tensioning state of the spring arms, the plug part can be removed from the receiving opening in the opposite direction of the plug. In particular, the spring arms do not extend into the receiving opening in the tensioning state, or only extend into the receiving opening slightly compared to the static state, so that in particular, the plug shaft can be guided beside the spring arms with at least one retaining edge thereof.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the retaining component has at least two retaining projections protruding from the spring arm in the radial direction relative to the receiving opening. Particularly preferably, the retaining component has four retaining projections protruding from the spring arm in the radial direction relative to the receiving opening. The two, preferably four retaining projections can advantageously be distributed around the circumference of the receiving opening and can evenly engage in the retaining edge of the plug, in particular with at least one toothed structure.

[0012] Expediently, at least one retaining projection, in particular at each retaining projection, is provided with two tooth structures spaced apart from each other in the axial direction relative to the plug-in direction. Advantageously, for a uniform arrangement of the retaining regions and for preventing a latching connection of the plug-in component opposite to the plug-in direction, two retaining regions are arranged on each radially elastic spring arm in such a way that the spring arms are preferably designed mirror-symmetrically to each other in cross section. In particular, this embodiment prevents the plug shaft from getting stuck in the receiving opening.

[0013] Particularly advantageously, the retaining projection has an axial recess. The recess can penetrate the retaining projection completely or partially in the axial direction. The recess prevents material accumulation when the retaining component is manufactured, in particular by injection molding. It also saves material and weight.

[0014] In particular, for a disassembly-friendly embodiment, the radially elastic spring arms and the coupling parts are designed in such a way that, when the holding part is radially displaced from the locked position into the released position, the spring arms are elastically expanded from the rest state into the radially expanded tensioned state. Advantageously, a radial deformation of the holding arms is simultaneously effected with the radial displacement of the holding part. This has the advantage, in particular, that it is not necessary to act on the latching arms, for example with a release tool, which could cause damage. Furthermore, the holding part can be designed and arranged in such a way that a radial displacement from the released position into the locked position or from the locked position into the released position can be effected from the outside (if necessary by adding a release tool).

[0015] Advantageously, the advantageous elastic deformation of the spring arms is produced in that two retaining projections are formed at the free ends of the spring arms opposite the connecting section. In particular, the retaining projections transition into the radially outwardly offset bridge section of the respective spring arm in an inclined control contour. It has proven to be advantageous if the control contour is directed toward the connecting section, wherein the control contour is designed in such a way that the control contour slides on the axial separation bridge of the coupling part when the retaining part is moved radially from the locking position into the release position. In this case, in particular, the control contour and the separation bridge are designed in such a way that during the radial movement of the retaining part from the locking position into the release position, the control contour slides on the separation bridge so that the spring arms are advantageously elastically expanded in a radially outwardly directed manner into the tensioned state.

[0016] In an extended variant of the invention, the control contours each have a retaining bevel. The retaining bevel is used in particular to ensure that the retaining part can only partially move relative to the coupling part in a radially outward direction. This advantageously prevents the retaining part from moving beyond the release position or from falling out of the coupling part. Therefore, the retaining bevel is preferably configured so that in the tensioned state of the spring arm, the retaining bevel is oriented perpendicular to the direction of radial movement of the retaining part from the locked position to the release position. It has also been found to be preferred that, in the release position, the retaining bevel is placed on a correspondingly configured supporting edge, thereby preventing the retaining part from moving further beyond the release position in a radially outwardly directed manner in a form-fitting manner. Suitably, for this purpose, the supporting edge is oriented parallel to the retaining bevel when the spring arm is in the tensioned state.

[0017] According to a preferred variant of the invention, advantageously for operational reliability, the radially elastic retaining part and the coupling part are designed such that in the fully latched position, a radial movement of the retaining part from the locked position into the released position is prevented and / or a radial elastic deformation of the retaining part is prevented in a form-fitting manner. In particular, an unintentional movement of the retaining part into the released position is prevented and a radial expansion of the retaining part is prevented, thereby reducing the risk of releasing the plug part in the opposite direction of the plug.

[0018] It is particularly advantageous in the inventive sense if the retaining component has a spring arm which interacts with the coupling component in such a way that in the fully locked position the retaining component is prevented from being radially moved from the locked position into the released position and / or that the spring arm is prevented from being elastically deformed radially from a rest state into a radially expanded tensioned state, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in order to prevent the plug component from being accidentally released from the receiving opening, a blocking edge is configured at the side of the toothed structure that is located axially opposite to the plug direction and points opposite to the plug direction. The blocking edge protrudes from the toothed structure axially in a direction opposite to the plug direction. It has been proven to be advantageous that a support surface that is axially offset in the plug direction adjoins the blocking edge in a radially outwardly directed manner. Advantageously, the blocking edge and the support surface are configured so that in the fully locked position of the plug coupling, the retaining component is placed axially with the support surface on the bearing surface of the coupling component pointing in the plug direction, and is radially abutted against the circumferential surface of the receiving opening with the blocking edge.

[0020] Due to the abutment of the blocking edge on the circumferential surface of the receiving opening, the spring arms of the retaining element cannot expand radially and the retaining element likewise cannot be transferred radially from a locking position into a release position relative to the coupling element.

[0021] It has been proved to be suitable that the coupling part or the receiving opening of the coupling part is designed to have a plug path for the plug shaft in size, wherein the retaining part has an axial clearance relative to the coupling part. Preferably, the axial clearance corresponds to at least the extension of the blocking edge in the axial direction. For assembly purposes, the retaining part can be transferred from the release position to the locking position, wherein when the plug shaft is introduced in the plug direction, the toothed structure is locked with (multiple) retaining edges. When the plug part is fully introduced into the receiving opening and the locking connection required for the fully locked position is established between the toothed structure and (multiple) retaining edges, the plug part can be moved in the opposite direction of the plug direction corresponding to its plug path by means of a restoring force acting on the plug part in the opposite direction of the plug direction. Advantageously, the blocking edge is arranged radially beside the circumferential surface of the receiving opening and blocks the radial movement of the retaining part and the radial expansion of the spring arm. In particular, in the pressure-free state of the plug-in coupling, the restoring force is generated by the dirt seal, which advantageously interacts with the coupling components. Suitably, in the pressurized state of the plug-in coupling, the restoring force generated by the dirt seal is enhanced by the system pressure.

[0022] Preferably, in order to release the latch connection or the blocking caused by the blocking edge, the plug part is moved in the plug direction at least over the axial length of the blocking edge, so that the blocking edge and the circumferential surface of the receiving opening do not overlap. The elastic deformation of the spring arm and the radial movement of the retaining part are released again.

[0023] Suitably, in order to transfer the holding part from the locked position into the released position, the connecting section of the holding part and / or the coupling part optionally has a release contour in a circumferential section which is radially adjacent to the connecting section of the holding part. The release contour can be designed in this case so that it is convenient to act on the holding part by hand and / or with a tool for the purpose of transferring the holding part. Preferably, the release contour at the holding part is designed to point toward the coupling part. Alternatively or in addition, the release contour at the coupling part is designed in particular to point toward the connecting section of the holding part.

[0024] It has been shown to be advantageous that the release profile of the retaining component and / or the coupling component is configured so that it forms an introduction opening that is open in the plug direction. The introduction opening is particularly configured so that the cross section of the introduction opening is reduced in a direction opposite to the plug direction via a ramp section. The ramp section can be appropriately configured at the release profile of the retaining component and / or the release profile of the coupling component. Suitably, a release tool can be introduced into the introduction opening by means of an introduction opening that is reduced in cross section via (multiple) ramp sections. In particular, by means of abutting contact between the release tool and (multiple) ramp sections, when the release tool is moved axially in the opposite direction to the plug direction, a release force directed radially outward acts on the retaining component. Advantageously, the release tool can be guided in a space-saving manner parallel to the plug direction in order to move the retaining component into the release position.

[0025] In order to avoid potential assembly errors and in particular to insert the retaining component into the coupling component in an assembly-correct manner so as to ensure the described locking and releasing functions, in a preferred embodiment of the plug-in coupling, a thorn-shaped portion pointing radially toward the coupling component is configured at the connecting section of the retaining component. The thorn-shaped portion can be introduced into the corresponding recessed portion in the circumference of the coupling component so that at least in the fully latched position, the thorn-shaped portion engages in the recessed portion in the circumference of the coupling component. In particular, when the retaining component is incorrectly assembled, the thorn-shaped portion hits against the circumference of the coupling component so that the retaining component cannot be transferred radially from the release position to the locking position relative to the plug direction. In addition, the assembler can easily visually identify the incorrect assembly based on the protruding thorn-shaped portion and the retaining component extending radially from the coupling component.

[0026] For the advantageous absorption of forces transmitted from the retaining edge of the plug part to the toothing (for example, when the assembled plug part is subjected to tensile loads in the fully latched position counter to the plugging direction), at least one of the toothings is designed such that it has a radius at the bending point which is most heavily loaded by the latching connection between the toothing and the retaining edge of the plug part. The advantage of the radius is that the supporting surface between the toothing and the retaining edge can be better utilized in this way.

[0027] According to a special embodiment of the invention, the receiving opening of the coupling part has a cylindrical sealing section and a control section adjoining the cylindrical sealing section in a direction opposite to the plug direction. In particular, the receiving opening has a larger diameter in the control section than in the sealing section. Suitably, due to the change in diameter, the sealing section can provide different functions, such as arranging a seal. In particular, the plug-in coupling is configured so that the plug shaft only seals against the control section 158 in the pre-latching position, so that incomplete assembly can be detected by controlled leakage.

[0028] An advantageous development provides that a transition section is formed axially between the control section and the sealing section, which reduces the diameter of the receiving opening in the control section to the diameter of the receiving opening in the sealing section. In particular, the transition section facilitates centering of the plug shaft of the plug component during introduction.

[0029] Furthermore, advantageously, an axially extending groove is optionally formed in the circumferential surface of the control section as a leakage path. This ensures a controlled fluid escape as an assembly indicator. In particular, at least one leakage path is provided, and preferably the number of leakage paths can be adapted to the conditions of use and the fluid properties of the fluid to be transported, for example four or eight leakage paths are feasible. Preferably, the leakage paths are arranged uniformly in the circumferential direction of the transition section.

[0030] Particularly advantageously, the functions of the control section and the sealing section are separated in such a way that, in particular, the sealing section and the control section are arranged relative to one another in such a way that in the pre-latching position, the plug shaft is arranged with the main seal pointing forward in the plug direction and arranged in the main seal groove to abut against the control section and in particular the transition section, and in the fully latched position, the plug shaft is arranged with the main seal to abut against the sealing section. Advantageously, due to the change in diameter between the control section and the sealing section, the main seal is pressed more strongly in the fully latched position, thereby providing a greater resistance to the internal pressure. At the same time, due to the enlarged control section in terms of diameter, the main seal causes leakage in a controlled manner in the pre-latching position when subjected to pressure load, so that incomplete assembly can be detected.

[0031] In addition to the previous embodiments, it can be advantageous if the control section of the coupling component is designed in such a way that a dirt seal of the plug component is arranged in the control section. The dirt seal can be arranged in particular in a sealing groove of the plug shaft pointing to the rear in the plug direction. Advantageously, the control section and, if present, the transition section are designed in such a way that the dirt seal can be elastically tensioned against the circumferential surface of the receiving opening at least in the fully locked position. Suitably, the dirt seal is tensioned not only radially in a manner abutting against the circumferential surface in the control section and, if applicable, in the transition section, but also axially due to the change in diameter from the control section to the transition section. Due to the axial tensioning of the dirt seal, an axial restoring force acts on the plug component in such a way that the plug component moves in the opposite direction of the plug direction, thereby improving the contact of the toothed structure on the retaining edge. In another positive aspect, the blocking edge and the plug-in path together produce a self-tightening, so that after the plug part has been completely inserted and when the insertion force acting on the plug part for inserting the plug part in the plug-in direction decreases, the plug part together with the retaining part latched on the plug part is moved axially relative to the coupling part in the opposite direction of the plug-in direction by the return force of the dirt seal. As a result, the blocking edge is advantageously brought into a radially acting positive blocking with the circumferential surface of the receiving opening.

[0032] Furthermore, the object of the invention is achieved with a release tool according to the features of claim 18 .

[0033] The release tool for the plug-in coupling of one of the above-mentioned embodiments according to the present invention is used to transfer the holding component from the locking position to the release position. According to the present invention, the release tool has a gripping body extending along the longitudinal axis and an expansion body adjacent to the gripping body. The release tool is configured so that the gripping body can be elastically deformed around the longitudinal axis and is configured to be substantially rigid in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0034] In particular, due to the elastic deformability about the longitudinal axis, incorrect use due to "prying" as is known from the prior art is prevented. According to the invention, the release tool is guided parallel to the receiving opening of the coupling part and thus perpendicular to the radial displacement direction of the retaining part. Advantageously, damage and wedging that could result from "prying" are avoided, and at the same time the radial space requirement radially next to the plug-in coupling for transferring the retaining part from the locked position into the released position is kept low.

[0035] According to an improved variant of the plug-in connection, the maximum radial displacement path of the retaining element relative to the coupling element, which the retaining element needs to move from the locked position to the released position, corresponds to the depth of the expansion body of the release tool. This expediently ensures that only the necessary displacement of the retaining element is always effected and, in particular, that a displacement beyond the released position is prevented.

[0036] Another optional variant of the plug-in connection provides that the expansion body of the release tool is designed in the shape of a fork, with two expansion straps protruding axially relative to the longitudinal axis and separated by a central separation gap. In particular, the retaining part and / or the coupling part can have a guide contour designed in such a way, in particular the release contour has such a guide contour, so that the release tool can always be assembled correctly for use. In particular, the expansion straps are designed in this regard so that when the expansion straps are introduced into the release contour, the barbs, which are optionally designed at the connection section, are surrounded and engaged. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are apparent from the following description of the figures and from the dependent claims.

[0038] in:

[0039] Figure 1 A perspective view showing the coupling components,

[0040] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the holding component,

[0041] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 2 A top view of the retaining element pointing opposite to the plug direction,

[0042] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a plug component,

[0043] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a release tool,

[0044] Figure 6 A partial sectional view parallel to the plugging direction of a variant of the plug coupling according to the invention is shown, wherein the not completely inserted plug connector is in a pre-latching position,

[0045] Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 6 A partial sectional view of a plug coupling parallel to the plug direction, wherein the inserted plug connector is in the plug position,

[0046] Figure 8 Shown according to Figure 6A partial sectional view of a plug coupling parallel to the plug direction, wherein the fully inserted plug connector is in the fully locked position,

[0047] Fig. 9 Shown along the basis Figure 8 The cross-sectional view of the plug coupling is shown in FIG. Figure 8 The fully inserted plug connector is in the fully locked position.

[0048] Fig.10 Shown according to Fig. 9 A detailed view of area B,

[0049] Fig.11 Shown according to Figure 8 A detailed view of area C,

[0050] Fig.12 A sectional view parallel to the plug-in direction of a variant of the plug connector according to the invention is shown, wherein the inserted plug connector is in the overplug position and the release tool is in the pre-release position,

[0051] Fig.13 Shown according to Fig.12 sectional view parallel to the plug-in direction of a plug connector, wherein the inserted plug connector is in the over-plug position and the release tool is in the triggering position,

[0052] Fig.14 Shown along the basis Fig.13 A partial cross-sectional view of section line DD of FIG. 1 , wherein the retaining member is in the released position, and

[0053] Fig.15 shows a direction parallel to the plug through the Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the sleeve section of a coupling component.

[0054] Identical parts are always provided with the same reference numerals in the different figures of the drawing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] With regard to the requirements of the subsequent description, the present invention is not restricted to the exemplary embodiments and in this case not to all or several features of the described combination of features, but rather each individual sub-feature of the / each exemplary embodiment is also of significance for the object of the invention individually, separately from all other sub-features described in conjunction therewith, and also in combination with any features of other exemplary embodiments.

[0056] Figure 1 Shown in Figures 6 to 8 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a coupling component 102 of a plug-in coupling 100 for fluid connection according to the present invention. Figures 6 to 8 1 shows the plug-in coupling 100 in different assembly positions. The plug-in coupling 100 also has Figure 2 and Figure 3 The retaining member 104 for the plug member 106 is shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the plug part 106 is designed in particular as a male plug part 106 having a plug shaft.

[0057] The plug-in component 106 can be inserted into the receiving opening 108 of the coupling component 102 in the plug-in direction E with the plug-in shaft in a circumferentially sealed manner. Figures 6 to 8 In the embodiment, the plug components 106 are respectively inserted into the coupling components 102.

[0058] The retaining element 104 is designed to be radially elastic and protrudes radially into the receiving opening 108 of the coupling part 102. In particular, the retaining element 104 can be released from the coupling part 102 in a non-destructive manner so that the retaining element 104 and the coupling part 102 can be separated from each other and reassembled. Preferably, the retaining element 104 and the coupling part 102 can also be designed so that the retaining element 104 can only be arranged at the retaining element 104 for the first assembly, and after the first assembly, reassembly or separation is prevented, in particular, it is prevented so that non-destructive disassembly is not possible.

[0059] Via the radially elastic retaining element 104 which radially protrudes into the receiving opening 108, the plug element 106 can be positioned in a partially plugged, not completely sealed, pre-latching position of the plug coupling 100 (eg Figure 6 ) and on the other hand in the fully locked position of all plugs of the plug coupling 100, which is completely pressure-tightly sealed (as shown in Figure 8 ) to prevent release in the opposite direction of the plugging direction E.

[0060] In order to form the pre-latching position and the fully latching position, the retaining part 104 has at least two axially spaced-apart tooth structures 110a, 110b configured to engage from behind at least one retaining edge 112a, 112b configured on the plug part. Figures 6 to 8 and Figures 11 to 13 The tooth structures 110a, 110b are shown in FIG.

[0061] In particular, at least one retaining edge 112a, 112b is configured correspondingly to the toothed structures 110a, 110b such that the toothed structures 110a, 110b each engage at least from behind a retaining edge 112a, 112b configured correspondingly on the plug component 106 to be assembled. Figure 4The plug component 106 shown in FIG. 1 has in particular two retaining edges 112a, 112b which are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction in the plug direction E. Preferably, Figures 6 to 8 and Fig.11 , how the toothed structures 110a, 110b engage from behind the retaining edges 112a, 112b of the plug part 106 in different assembly positions. The toothed structures 110a, 110b engage from behind the retaining edges 112a, 112b in this case, forming a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0062] Suitably, the toothed structures 110a, 110b and the retaining edges 112a, 112b have a fir-tree profile, wherein the toothed structures 110a, 110b have a toothed abutment edge 114 extending obliquely and pointing opposite to the plug-in direction E, and when the plug-in part 106 is inserted, the retaining abutment edge 116 of the retaining edges 112a, 112b pointing in the plug-in direction E slides on the toothed abutment edge in the plug-in direction E.

[0063] In particular, the plug component 106 has two retaining edges 112a, 112b corresponding to the tooth structures 110a and 110b, and the two retaining edges are offset from each other in the axial direction, such as Figure 5 In addition, it has been found to be advantageous that the respective retaining edges 112a, 112b extend in one piece in the circumferential direction around the circumference of the plug component 106, such as Figure 5 . In particular, the circumferential retaining edges 112a, 112b can make it possible for the plug component 106 to rotate around its own axis in the receiving opening 108 without being hooked or stuck. Preferably, the front retaining edge 112a of the plug component 106 pointing in the plug direction E is designed so that the front retaining edge 112a requires less assembly force when cooperating with the toothed structures 110a, 110b than the rear retaining edge 112b pointing in the plug direction E. In particular, this is achieved by a smaller diameter of the retaining edge 112a relative to the rear retaining edge 112b.

[0064] The retaining member 104 can be in a locking position (exemplarily in the locking position) of the plug member 106 in the radial direction relative to the receiving opening 108. Fig. 9 ) and the released position of the release plug member 106 (shown in Fig.14 ) move relative to the coupling member 102. For example, Fig.12 and Fig.13 1 shows the radial movement of the holding member 104 when using the release tool 118. Here, the holding member 104 is Fig.12 is shown in the locked position and in Fig.13 or Fig.14 ( Fig.13 sectional view) is shown in the released position.

[0065] Preferably, the axial spacing of the toothings 110a, 110b is designed statistically such that the front toothing 110a in the plug-in direction E absorbs almost completely, preferably completely, the loads acting opposite to the plug-in direction E when operating under system pressure load. Preferably, the front toothing 110a in the plug-in direction E absorbs 85% to 100%, in particular 90% to 95%, in particular 93% of the loads acting opposite to the plug-in direction E when operating under system pressure load.

[0066] Another embodiment is configured such that the rear toothed structure 110b in the plug direction E first contacts the corresponding rear retaining edge 112b of the plug component 106 when the pressure load begins and begins to bear the load, while the front toothed structure 110a in the plug direction E contacts the corresponding retaining edge 112a of the plug component 106 only after the rear toothed structure 110b is slightly deformed and absorbs part of the load, especially the main part of the load.

[0067] In particular, the front toothing 110 a can be designed with a smaller diameter than the rear toothing 110 b in the plug-in direction E. As a result, the front toothing 110 a becomes more rigid and can absorb greater forces while keeping deformations low.

[0068] It may also be appropriate that the toothed structures 110a, 110b at the retaining part 104 and the retaining edges 112a, 112b at the plug part 106 are constructed in such a way that when a pressure load acts on the plug part 106 in the opposite direction to the plug direction E, symmetrical contact occurs between the front toothed structure 110a and the rear toothed structure 110b and the respectively correspondingly constructed retaining edges 112a, 112b.

[0069] According to a variant of the invention, Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the holding part 104 has two spring arms 122 connected to each other via a connecting section 120 on one side. The spring arms 122 are preferably designed to be radially elastic. The spring arms 122 preferably extend from the connecting section 120 to a free end. In particular, the spring arms 122 are in a relaxed static state (e.g. Fig. 9 ) extends into the receiving opening 108 so that the plug component 106 to be locked can be in the pre-locking position ( Figure 6 ) and fully locked position ( Figure 8 In addition, the preferred expansion scheme is provided in which the spring arm 122 is in a radially elastically expanded tensioned state ( Fig.14), the plug component 106 can be removed from the receiving opening 108 in the opposite direction of the plug direction E. Figure 2 As shown in , the toothing 110a, 110b is in particular formed on spring arms.

[0070] The retaining component 104 preferably surrounds and grips the coupling component 102 in the sleeve section of the coupling component 102 by means of spring arms 122. Preferably, the retaining component 104 is arranged with its connecting section 120 radially pointing toward the outside of the coupling component 102 relative to the plug-in direction E in such a way that the spring arms 122 respectively surround a separation bridge 130 of the coupling component 102 extending axially relative to the plug-in direction E. In particular, the separation bridge 130 is constructed in such a way that it respectively extends axially through a radial bearing opening 111 in the outside of the sleeve section of the coupling component 102. Preferably, the retaining protrusion 124 of the retaining component 104 with its spring arms 122 extends through the bearing opening 111 into the receiving opening. Advantageously, in Fig. 9 and Fig.14 , how the toothed structures 110a, 110b arranged at the spring arms 122 extend through the bearing openings 111 of the coupling component 102 arranged radially in the sleeve section. In particular, Figure 1 The bearing opening 111 and the separating bridge 130 are indicated.

[0071] Preferably, the retaining part 104 has at least two, in particular four, retaining projections 124 protruding radially from the spring arms 122 relative to the receiving opening 108. Expediently, two tooth structures 110a, 110b spaced apart from each other axially relative to the plug-in direction E are configured in at least one retaining projection 124, in particular in each retaining projection 124. Figures 6 to 8 , only a section through one retaining projection 124 having two tooth structures 110 a and 110 b spaced apart from one another in the axial direction relative to the plug-in direction E is shown.

[0072] In particular, two retaining projections 124 are arranged on each radially elastic spring arm 122 in such a way that the spring arm 122 is substantially parallel to the radially elastic spring arm 122 in cross section, in particular Fig. 9104 and 106. The retaining projections 124 are preferably supported on the plug shaft of the plug component 106 and / or the retaining edges 112a, 112b of the plug component 106, in particular by means of the toothed structures 110a, 110b configured at the retaining projections 124. The symmetrical arrangement of the retaining projections 124 facilitates advantageous insertion and prevents the plug component 106 and / or the retaining component 104 from getting stuck. In addition, the symmetrical arrangement has a favorable effect on the movement of the retaining component 104 between the locking position and the release position, so that, for example, the radial elastic deformation of the spring arms 122 or its reverse shaping can be carried out uniformly.

[0073] In particular, if Figure 3 As shown in , the retaining projection 124 has an axial recess. The recess 126 advantageously influences the filling properties when the retaining component 104 is manufactured by a casting process, especially an injection molding process. It is particularly advantageous to arrange that the recess 126 completely penetrates the retaining projection 124 in the axial direction.

[0074] A particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention is Fig. 9 and Fig.14 According to this embodiment, the radially elastic spring arms 122 and the coupling part 102 are configured so that when the retaining part 104 is moved radially from the locking position to the release position, the spring arms 122 are elastically expanded from the static state to the radially expanded tensioned state. Preferably, the plug part 106 can be decoupled from the function of radially expanding the spring arms 122. Likewise, there is no need for the assembler to directly manually intervene in the spring arms 122, which avoids errors in assembly or disassembly.

[0075] According to another embodiment of the plug-in coupling 100, two retaining projections 124 are formed at the free ends of the spring arms 122 opposite the connecting section 120. Figure 3 , Fig. 9 and Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining projection 124 transitions into the radially outwardly offset bridging section of the corresponding spring arm 122 in the beveled control contour 128. In particular, as Figure 3 , Fig. 9 and Fig.14 As shown in , the control contour 128 points toward the connecting section 120. It is particularly preferred that the control contour 128 is designed so that during the radial movement of the retaining part 104 from the locking position into the release position, the control contour 128 slides on the axial separation bridge 130 of the coupling part 102, so that the spring arms 122 are elastically expanded in a radially outward direction into a tensioned state. Fig.141 shows how the spring arms 122 shown are radially expanded into the tensioned state by means of the interaction of the separating bridge 130 and the control contour 128. Particularly advantageously, the plug part 106 can thus be decoupled from the function of radially expanding the spring arms 122. In this embodiment, no direct manual intervention of the assembler on the spring arms 122 is also required. Advantageously, the error potential during assembly or disassembly is reduced.

[0076] In particular, the control contours 128 each have a retaining bevel 132. The retaining bevel 132 is particularly Figure 3 , Fig. 9 and Fig.14 The retaining bevel 132 is preferably configured such that in the tensioned state of the spring arm 122, as exemplarily shown in Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining ramp 132 is preferably oriented approximately perpendicularly, preferably perpendicularly, to the direction of radial movement of the retaining member 104 from the locking position to the release position. In the release position, it is particularly desirable that Fig.14 As shown in , the retaining bevel 132 is preferably placed on a correspondingly constructed supporting edge 134, which is oriented parallel to the retaining bevel 132, especially when the spring arm 122 is in the tensioned state. The supporting edge 134 is preferably formed at the separation bridge 130 of the coupling part 102. Advantageously, the retaining bevel 132 is placed or placed on the supporting edge 134 in such a way that a further movement of the retaining part 104 beyond the release position in a radially outwardly directed manner is prevented, especially in a form-fitting manner. Fig.14 1 and 2 show in general how the retaining bevel 132 comes to bear against the supporting edge 134 in a form-fitting manner, so that the spring arms 122 cannot expand further in the radial direction and a radial displacement of the retaining element 104 in the direction of the released position is prevented in a form-fitting manner.

[0077] Advantageously, the radially elastic retaining element 104, in particular the spring arm 122, and the coupling element 102 are designed such that the retaining element 104, in particular the spring arm 122, and the coupling element 102 interact with each other in such a way that Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , at least in the fully locked position, the retaining member 104 is prevented from moving radially from the locked position to the released position. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the retaining member 104, in particular the spring arm 122, is also prevented from elastically deforming radially from the rest state to the radially expanded tensioned state, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

[0078] In order to prevent the retaining member 104 from moving radially from the locked position into the released position and / or to prevent the retaining member 104, in particular the spring arm 122, from being elastically deformed radially from the rest state into the radially expanded tensioned state, it has proven to be suitable if Figure 8 and Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , a blocking edge 136 is formed on the side of the toothed structure 110b that is located axially opposite to the plug-in direction E and that points opposite to the plug-in direction E. In particular, the blocking edge 136 protrudes from the toothed structures 110a, 110b axially opposite to the plug-in direction E. Suitably, a support surface 138 that is axially offset in the plug-in direction E adjoins the blocking edge 136 in a radially outwardly directed manner. Advantageously, the blocking edge 136 and the support surface 138 are configured so that in the correctly assembled fully locked position of the plug-in coupling 100, as in the Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining component 104 is placed axially with the support surface 138 on the bearing surface of the coupling component 102 pointing in the plug-in direction E, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown in .

[0079] In particular, when attempting to open and / or when pulling the plug part 106 obliquely to the plug direction E, the retaining part 104 radially abuts against the circumferential surface 140 of the accommodating opening 108 with the blocking edge 136, thereby blocking the retaining part 104 from radially moving from the locked position to the released position and / or blocking the retaining part 104, in particular the spring arm 122, from radially elastically deforming from a static state to a radially expanded tensioned state.

[0080] It has proven to be expedient that the coupling part 102 or the receiving opening 108 of the coupling part 102 is dimensioned to have a plug-in path 142 for the plug-in shaft, wherein the retaining part 104 has an axial clearance relative to the coupling part 102. Preferably, the axial clearance corresponds at least to the extension of the blocking edge 136 in the axial direction. For assembly purposes, the retaining part 104 can thus be transferred from a released position into a locked position, wherein when the plug-in shaft is introduced in the plug-in direction E, the toothed structures 110a, 110b engage with the retaining edge(s) 112a, 112b. When the plug-in component 106 is completely introduced into the receiving opening 108 and the latching connection required for the fully latched position is established between the toothed structures 110a, 110b and the retaining edges 112a, 112b, the plug-in component 106 can be moved in the opposite direction of the plug-in direction E by means of a restoring force acting on the plug-in component 106 in the opposite direction of the plug-in direction E according to its plug-in path 142. Advantageously, as Figure 8 and Fig.11As shown in FIG. 1 , the blocking edge 136 is arranged radially next to the circumferential surface 140 of the receiving opening 108 and blocks the radial movement of the retaining component 104 and the radial expansion of the spring arm 122. Preferably, in order to release the latch connection or the blocking caused by the blocking edge 136, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 and Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the plug component 106 moves at least over the axial length of the blocking edge 136 in the plug direction E and enters the plug position of the plug coupling 100, so that the blocking edge 136 and the circumferential surface 140 of the receiving opening 108 do not overlap. The elastic deformation of the spring arm 122 and the radial movement of the retaining component 104 are released again.

[0081] In particular, in order to facilitate the removal or removal of the plug component 106 from the receiving opening 108 in the opposite direction of the plug direction E, a suitable connecting section 120 of the retaining component 104 and / or the coupling component 102 has a loosening contour 144a, 144b in a circumferential section radially adjacent to the connecting section 120 of the retaining component 104. The loosening contour 144a at the retaining component 104 is particularly Figure 2 The loosening contour 144b at the coupling component 102 is particularly Figure 1 Preferably, the release contour 144a at the retaining part 104 is configured to point toward the coupling part 102, while the release contour 144b at the coupling part 102 is configured to point toward the connecting section 120 of the retaining part 104. These embodiments of the release contours 144a and 144b are particularly Figure 1 and Figure 2 as well as Fig.12 and Fig.13 It is shown in Fig.12 and Fig.13 A plug-in coupling 100 is shown having a retaining component 104 arranged in a coupling component 102 .

[0082] In particular, the release contours 144a, 144b of the holding part 104 and / or the coupling part 102 are designed in such a way that they together form, in particular, an introduction opening 146 which is open in the plug-in direction E. The introduction openings 146 are in particular Fig.12 Advantageously, the cross section of the introduction opening 146 tapers in a direction opposite to the plug-in direction E via a ramp section 148. The ramp section 148 can be implemented in particular as Fig.13As shown in , the release tool 118 can be introduced into the (multiple) introduction openings 146 and, by means of the abutting contact with the ramp section 148, cause a radially outwardly directed release force acting on the retaining component 104. Expediently, in the case of an introduction opening 146 formed jointly by the retaining component 104 and the coupling component 102, the introduction opening 146 of the coupling component 102 and / or the introduction opening 146 of the retaining component 104 can have a ramp section 148.

[0083] It has proven to be advantageous if the release contours 144a, 144b are open axially relative to the introduction opening 146 such that any dirt present in the release contours 144a, 144b is squeezed out of the region of the release contours 144a, 144b when the release tool 118 is introduced into the release contours 144a, 144b through the introduction opening 146.

[0084] Advantageously, if Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , a spike 150 is formed on the connection section 120 of the holding component 104 and points radially toward the coupling component 102. In particular, at least in the locked position of the holding component 104 or at least in the fully locked position of the plug-in coupling 100, the spike 150 engages in a correspondingly constructed recess 152 in the circumference of the coupling component 102. The recess 152 is particularly Figure 1 142. The recess 152 is preferably designed with an axial clearance relative to the prong 152 so that an axial displacement of the retaining element 104 relative to the coupling element 102 is possible. In particular, the axial clearance is dimensioned so that the retaining element 104 can be displaced corresponding to the plug-in path 142. For this purpose, the recess 152 is advantageously designed as an ellipse or as an elongated hole.

[0085] In another embodiment of the present invention, Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , at least one of the tooth structures 110a, 110b is designed such that it has a radius 154 at the bending point which is most loaded by the latching connection between the tooth structure 110a, 110b and the retaining edge 112a, 112b of the plug part 106. In particular, Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the rear toothed structure 110 b pointing in the plug-in direction E has a radius 154 between the blocking edge 136 and the supporting surface 138. Preferably, as Fig.11As shown in FIG. 1 , the rear toothing 110 b pointing in the plug direction E may alternatively or additionally have a radius 154 on a surface that points in the plug direction E and corresponds to the retaining edge 112 b of the plug part 106. The radius at the front and / or rear toothing 110 a, 110 b has the advantage that the support surface between the toothing 110 a, 110 b can be better utilized. In particular, the force absorption of the forces transmitted from the retaining edges 112 a, 112 b of the plug part 106 to the toothing 110 a, 110 b can be improved by the larger support surface, for example when the assembled plug part 106 is subjected to tensile loads in the fully locked position opposite to the plug direction E.

[0086] According to Figures 6 to 8 as well as Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.15 In a variant of the invention shown in FIG. 1 , the receiving opening 108 of the coupling part 102 has a cylindrical sealing section 156 and a control section 158 adjoining the cylindrical sealing section 156, preferably pointing opposite to the plug-in direction E. Preferably, in this case, as in Figures 6 to 8 as well as Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , the receiving opening 108 has a larger diameter in the control section 158 than in the sealing section 156. Advantageously, due to the change in diameter, the sections 156, 158 can provide different functions, such as the arrangement of the seal. In particular, the plug-in coupling 100 is designed so that the plug-in shaft is sealed only against the control section 158 in the pre-latching position, so that incomplete assembly can be detected by controlled leakage.

[0087] Appropriately, as in Figures 6 to 8 as well as Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , a transition section 160 is formed in the axial direction between the control section 158 and the sealing section 156, which reduces the diameter of the receiving opening 108 in the control section 158 to the diameter of the receiving opening 108 in the sealing section 156. In particular, the transition section 160 facilitates centering of the plug shaft of the plug component 106 during introduction and preferably serves to support a dirt seal 162 arranged in the control section 158.

[0088] Preferably, at least one groove 159 is formed in the circumferential surface 140a of the receiving opening 108 in the control section 158 so as to extend axially as to serve as a leakage path. The groove 159 formed as a leakage path is Fig.15In particular, at least one groove 159 configured as a leakage path is provided. Preferably, the number of leakage paths can be matched to the use conditions and the fluid properties of the fluid to be transmitted. For example, four or eight grooves 159 configured as leakage paths are feasible. Preferably, as Fig.15 As shown in FIG, the grooves 159 are arranged uniformly in the circumferential direction of the transition section 160. The grooves 159 configured as leakage paths can advantageously enable early identification of the plug component 106 that is not fully inserted, for example in the pre-latching position, by causing a leakage in a controlled manner that can be perceived visually or acoustically by the assembler, for example.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the sealing section 156 and the control section 158 are arranged or configured relative to each other in such a way that in the pre-latching position, such as in Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the plug shaft is arranged to abut against the control section 158 and in particular also against the transition section 160 with a main seal 164 pointing forward in the plug direction E. In this case, it is appropriate, as in Figures 6 to 8 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , the main seal 164 is arranged in the main seal groove 166. The main seal groove 166 is also exemplarily Figure 4 . In this case, the coupling part 102 or the control section 158 and in particular the transition section 160 are expediently designed in such a way that in the pre-latching position a controlled leakage is provided between the main seal 164 and the circumferential surface 140a of the receiving opening 108 in the control section 158. Advantageously, this effect is improved by at least one groove extending in the axial direction as a leakage path. The controlled leakage serves to detect an incomplete insertion of the plug part 106, as is the case, for example, in the pre-latching position, as in Figure 6 As shown in .

[0090] Advantageously, the coupling component 102 or the sealing section 156 is designed such that in the fully locked position (eg Figure 8 ), the plug shaft can be arranged to abut against the peripheral surface 140b of the receiving opening 108 in the sealing section 156 with the main seal 164. The sealing section 156 is constructed in such a way that the main seal 164 withstands the system pressure that occurs in the fluid pipeline system during the operation of the plug-in coupling 100 and prevents the fluid from escaping.

[0091] In an embodiment, the control section 158 of the coupling part 102 is advantageously designed in such a way that a dirt seal 162 of the plug part 106 can be arranged in the control section 158. The dirt seal 162 is expediently arranged in a sealing groove 168 of the plug shaft pointing to the rear in the plug-in direction E. The sealing groove 168 is particularly Figure 4 It can be preferred that the control section 158 and in particular the transition section 160 are designed in such a way that the dirt seal 162 is at least in the fully locked position (such as in Figure 7 and Figure 8 108 in the control section 158 ) can be elastically tensioned against the circumferential surface 140 a of the receiving opening 108 in the control section 158 .

[0092] The dirt seal 162 is preferably tensioned radially against the circumferential surface 140 of the receiving opening 108 in the control section 158 and, if appropriate, in the transition section 160, and is also tensioned axially due to the change in diameter from the control section 158 to the transition section 160. This axial and radial tensioning is particularly effective in Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 Due to the axial tensioning of the dirt seal 162 , the axial restoring force R acts on the plug component 106 in such a way that the plug component 106 is pushed in the opposite direction of the plugging direction E. In particular, the retaining edges 112a, 112b of the plug component 106 are thereby pushed against the toothed structures 110a, 110b.

[0093] Preferably, the coupling component 102 is configured such that the dirt seal 162 is at least in the over-plug position (eg, Figure 7 and Fig.12 ) exerts a restoring force R on the plug shaft, so that the plug coupling 100 is automatically transferred to the fully locked position. Suitably, self-tightening can also be advantageously provided by the blocking edge 136, so that after the plug part 106 is fully inserted and when the insertion force acting on the plug part 106 for inserting the plug part 106 in the plug direction E is reduced, the plug part 106 is axially moved relative to the coupling part 102 in a manner opposite to the plug direction E by the restoring force R of the dirt seal 162 together with the retaining part 104 locked at the plug part 106. Advantageously, as a result, Figure 8 and Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the blocking edge 136 is brought into a radially acting positive stop with a circumferential surface 140 of the receiving opening 108 .

[0094] Preferably, the coupling component 102 and / or the retaining component 104 are made of polyamide, preferably with a glass fiber content of 15% to 45%, in particular 20% to 40%, preferably 25% to 35%. Advantageously, the coupling component 102 and / or the retaining component 104 are manufactured using a casting process, in particular an injection molding process.

[0095] exist Figure 5 1 shows a release tool 118 according to the invention for a plug-in coupling 100 according to at least one of the above-described embodiments. The release tool 118 is used here to transfer the retaining part 104 from the locked position to the release position. According to the invention, the release tool 118 has a gripping body 172 extending along the longitudinal axis 170 and an expansion body 174 adjoining the gripping body 172. The gripping body 172 can be elastically deformed around the longitudinal axis 170 and is configured to be substantially rigid in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis 170.

[0096] exist Figure 5 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 , the direction of elastic deformation about the longitudinal axis 170 of the expansion body is marked by arrow F.

[0097] In particular, if Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the release tool 118 has a recess 176, which expediently creates a meandering shape at the upper and lower sides, thereby providing a flexible or elastic deformation potential around the longitudinal axis 170 and maintaining axial rigidity at the same time. Thus, the release tool 118 is designed so that it is flexible on the longitudinal axis 170, thereby reducing prying.

[0098] The following will follow Fig.12 and Fig.13 The use of the release tool 118 is described.

[0099] In order to release the connection or to remove the plug-in part 106 from the receiving opening 108 in the opposite direction of the plug-in direction E, the connection is in particular plugged in, so that the plug-in coupling 100 is in the Fig.12 The over plug position is shown in FIG.

[0100] In particular, the toothed abutment edges 114 of the toothed structures 110a, 110b abut against the retaining abutment edges 116 of the retaining edges 112a, 112b in such a way that an axial movement of the retaining component 104 in the plug-in direction E is brought about. Figure 7 and Fig.12 , it is shown how the plug-in part 106 has already displaced the retaining part 104 axially in the plug-in direction E.

[0101] Preferably, for plugging, the plug part 106 is pushed into the coupling part 102, especially toward the stop, in a manner directed in the plug direction E. Preferably, the retaining part 104 is guided axially together by the plug part 106 as described, so that Figure 7 and Fig.12 As shown in , the blocking edge 136 is arranged axially above the circumferential surface 140 of the receiving opening 108. From this state, the retaining component 104 can be transferred radially from the locking position to the release position, or the spring arm 122 can be elastically expanded radially to the tensioned state.

[0102] Subsequently, the release tool 118 is advantageously introduced parallel to the plug-in direction E and as far as possible parallel to, in particular parallel to, the longitudinal axis 170 of the release tool 118 and opposite to the plug-in direction E into the introduction opening 146 of the release contours 144a, 144b. Fig.12 The release tool 118 is shown in the pre-release position, while Fig.13 FIG. 4 shows that the release tool 118 is introduced with the expansion body 174 into the introduction opening 146 and is arranged in the triggering position.

[0103] In particular, by means of the movement of the release tool 118, the expansion body 174 slides in particular on the (multiple) ramp sections 148 of the (multiple) release contours 144a, 144b. Due to the release contours 144a, 144b, the release tool 118 acts on the connecting section 120 of the holding component 104 with its radially outwardly directed release force, so that the holding component is transferred to the release position, such as Fig.13 As shown in .

[0104] Suitably, such as Figure 5 As shown in , the release tool 118 has a rounding 178 on the expansion body 174 , which is designed in such a way that the release tool 118 or the expansion body 174 can be easily introduced into the introduction opening(s) 146 of the release contour(s) 144a , 144b .

[0105] In particular, the rounded portion 178 at the expansion body 174 and the release contours 144a, 144b (which preferably have at least one constructed ramp section 148) preferably result in: when the release tool 118 is moved non-axially at the gripping body 172, in particular bent around the longitudinal axis 170, the release tool 118 slips out of the release contours 144a, 144b, and thus the retaining component 104 cannot be pried out, which may cause damage to the retaining component 104 and / or the coupling component 102.

[0106] As a further measure, the axial height of the (multiple) release contours 144a, 144b relative to the plug-in direction E is designed by means of a rounded portion so that when the force exerted on the release tool 118 is too high, the release tool 118 is rotated out of the (multiple) release contours 144a, 144b and the retaining part 104 is not further pushed away from the coupling part 102 in the radial direction.

[0107] In particular, when the retaining element 104 is transferred from the locked position into the released position, the spring arms 122 are preferably moved with the toothed structures 110a, 110b (eg, Fig.14 ) is pivoted into the coupling part 102 to such an extent, in particular via the retaining edges 112a, 112b of the plug-in part 106, that the plug-in part 106 can be released from the latching connection.

[0108] It has proven to be advantageous that if one side of the retaining part 104 opens, in particular when one spring arm 122 expands radially while the second spring arm 122 remains in a stationary position, then due to suitable retaining bevels 132 of the spring arms 122 and the supporting edge of the coupling part 102, the retaining part 104 opens asymmetrically, so that the first spring arm 122 is opened first until the retaining bevel 132 abuts against the supporting edge 134, and then the second spring arm 122 is opened on the other side.

[0109] According to an improved variant of the release tool 118, the maximum radial displacement path of the retaining part 104 relative to the coupling part 102, which the retaining part 104 needs in order to reach the release position from the locked position, corresponds to the depth 180 of the expansion body of the release tool 118. It is thus advantageously ensured that only the necessary displacement of the retaining part 104 is always effected and in particular a displacement beyond the release position is prevented.

[0110] Another optional variant of the release tool 118 provides that the expansion body 174 of the release tool 118 is configured in a fork shape, with two expansion straps 182 that protrude axially relative to the longitudinal axis 170 and are separated by a central separation gap. In particular, the holding component 104 and / or the coupling component 102 can have a guide contour configured in this way, in particular the release contours 144a, 144b have such a guide contour, so that the release tool 118 can always be assembled correctly for use. In particular, the expansion straps 182 are configured in this regard so that when the expansion straps 182 are introduced into the release contours 144a, 144b, the barbs 150 that are optionally configured at the connection section 120 are surrounded and engaged.

[0111] The invention is not restricted to the illustrated and described embodiments, but also includes all embodiments that have the same effect in the sense of the invention. It is explicitly emphasized that the embodiments of the invention are not restricted to all features in the combination, but rather each individual sub-feature can also have an inventive significance individually in a manner separate from all other sub-features. Furthermore, the invention is also not restricted to the feature combination defined in claim 1, but can also be defined by any other combination of certain features of all the fully disclosed individual features. This means that in principle each individual feature of claim 1 can actually be omitted or replaced by at least one individual feature disclosed elsewhere in the application.

[0112] Reference numerals list

[0113] 100 Plug coupling

[0114] 102 Coupling parts

[0115] 104 Holding parts

[0116] 106 Plug parts

[0117] 108 Accommodation opening

[0118] 110a Front tooth structure

[0119] 110b The tooth structure at the rear

[0120] 111 Support opening

[0121] 112a Front retaining edge

[0122] 112b Rear retaining edge

[0123] 114 Toothed edge

[0124] 116 Stay Snapped to Edge

[0125] 118 Release tool

[0126] 120 Connection section

[0127] 122 Spring Arm

[0128] 124 Keep it raised

[0129] 126 blank space

[0130] 128 Control Profile

[0131] 130 Separation bridge

[0132] 132 Keep the slope

[0133] 134 Support edge

[0134] 136 Blocked Edge

[0135] 138 Support surface

[0136] 140 Circumferential surface of the receiving opening

[0137] 140a The circumferential surface of the receiving opening in the control section

[0138] 140b Circumferential surface of the receiving opening in the sealing section

[0139] 142 Through plug path

[0140] 144a Release contour at retaining component

[0141] 144b Loose contours at coupling components

[0142] 146 Introduction opening

[0143] 148 Slope Section

[0144] 150 Thorn

[0145] 152 Concave part

[0146] 154 Radius

[0147] 156 Sealing section

[0148] 158 Control Section

[0149] 159 Grooves

[0150] 160 Transition section

[0151] 162 Dirt Seal

[0152] 164 Main seal

[0153] 166 Main seal groove

[0154] 168 Seal groove

[0155] 170 Longitudinal axis

[0156] 172 Grip Body

[0157] 174 Expansion Entity

[0158] 176 Release tool recess

[0159] 178 Rounded part

[0160] 180 Depth of expansion body

[0161] 182 Expansion board

[0162] E Plug direction

[0163] F Deformation direction

[0164] R return force

Claims

1. A plug-in coupling (100) for a fluid line system, in particular for a compressed air brake of a motor vehicle, comprising a coupling part (102) and a retaining part (104) for a plug-in part (106), wherein the plug-in part (106) can be inserted into a receiving opening (108) of the coupling part (102) in a plug-in direction E in a circumferentially sealed manner using a plug-in shaft and can be locked via a radially elastic retaining part (104) that radially extends into the receiving opening (108) in a partially plugged, incompletely sealed pre-latching position of the plug-in coupling (100) and in a completely pressure-tightly sealed fully latching position of the entire plug of the plug-in coupling (100) against release in the opposite direction of the plug-in direction (E), wherein: In order to form the pre-locking position and the fully locked position, the retaining component (104) is constructed with at least two axially spaced tooth structures (110a, 110b) for engaging from the rear with at least one retaining edge (112a, 112b) constructed at the plug component (106), wherein the retaining component (104) can be moved relative to the coupling component (102) in the radial direction relative to the accommodating opening (108) between a locking position for locking the plug component (106) and a release position for releasing the plug component (106).

2. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The retaining component (104) has two radially elastic spring arms (122) which are connected to one another via a connecting section (120) on one side, the spring arms each extending from the connecting section (120) to a free end, wherein the spring arms (122) in a relaxed, resting state extend into the receiving opening (108) in such a way that the plug-in component (106) can be locked in the pre-latching position and in the fully latched position, and in a radially elastically expanded tensioned state of the spring arms (122), the plug-in component (106) can be removed from the receiving opening (108) opposite to the plug-in direction (E).

3. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The radially elastic spring arms (122) and the coupling part (102) are designed such that when the retaining part (104) is moved radially from the locking position to the release position, the spring arms (122) elastically expand from the rest state into a radially expanded tensioned state.

4. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 2 or 3, It is characterized in that The retaining component (104) has at least two, in particular four, retaining projections (124) which protrude radially from the spring arms (122) relative to the receiving opening (108), and in at least one retaining projection (124), in particular in each retaining projection (124), two tooth structures (110a, 110b) are formed which are axially spaced apart from each other relative to the plug-in direction (E), wherein two retaining areas are arranged on each radially elastic spring arm (122) in such a way that the spring arms (122) are formed mirror-symmetrically to each other in cross section.

5. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 4, It is characterized in that The retaining projection (124) has an axial recess (126) which completely penetrates the retaining projection (124) in the axial direction.

6. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 4 or 5, It is characterized in that The retaining part (104) is arranged with its connecting section (120) radially relative to the plug-in direction (E) in such a manner as to point toward the outer side of the coupling part (102) so that the spring arms (122) respectively surround a separation bridge (130) extending axially relative to the plug-in direction (E) and engaging the coupling part (102), wherein the separation bridge (130) is designed to extend axially through a radial bearing opening (111) in the outer side of the coupling part (102), so that the retaining projection (124) of the spring arm (122) extends through the bearing opening (111) into the receiving opening (108).

7. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 6, It is characterized in that Two retaining projections (124) are constructed at the free ends of the spring arms (122) in a manner opposite to the connecting section (120) and transition in an inclined control contour (128) into a radially outwardly offset bridging section of the corresponding spring arm (122), wherein the control contour (128) points toward the connecting section (120), and wherein the control contour (128) is constructed in such a way that when the retaining part (104) is radially moved from the locking position to the release position, the control contour (128) slides on the axial separation bridging portion (130) of the coupling part (102), so that the spring arms (122) elastically expand in a radially outwardly directed manner into the tensioned state.

8. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The control contours (128) each have a retaining bevel (132), wherein the retaining bevel (132) is constructed such that, in the tensioned state of the spring arm (122), the retaining bevel (132) is oriented perpendicularly to the direction of radial movement of the retaining component (104) from the locking position to the released position and, in the released position, rests on a constructed supporting edge (134), which is correspondingly constructed and, in particular, oriented parallel to the retaining bevel (132) when the spring arm (122) is in the tensioned state, thereby blocking the retaining component (104) from further movement beyond the released position in a radially outwardly directed manner in a form-fitting manner.

9. The plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, It is characterized in that The radially elastic retaining component (104), in particular the spring arm (122) and the coupling component (102) are constructed in such a way that, in the fully locked position, the retaining component (104) is blocked from radially moving from the locked position to the released position, and / or the retaining component (104), in particular the spring arm (122), is blocked from radially elastically deforming from the static state to a radially expanded tensioned state, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

10. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 9, It is characterized in that A blocking edge (136) is configured on the side of the toothed structure (110b) which is axially located most forward and is opposite to the plug direction (E), and which protrudes from the toothed structure (110b) in an axial direction opposite to the plug direction (E), wherein a support surface (138) which is axially offset in the plug direction (E) adjoins the blocking edge (136) in a radially outwardly directed manner, wherein the blocking edge (136) and the support surface (138) are configured such that in the correctly assembled fully locked position of the plug coupling (100), the retaining component (104) is axially placed with the support surface (138) on the bearing surface of the coupling component (102) pointing in the plug direction (E), and radially abuts with the retaining edge against the circumferential surface (140) of the receiving opening (108).

11. The plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, It is characterized in that The connecting section (120) of the retaining component (104) and / or the coupling component (102) have a loosening contour (144a, 144b) in a circumferential section radially adjacent to the connecting section (120) of the retaining component (104), wherein the loosening contour (144a) at the retaining component (104) is constructed to point toward the coupling component (102), and the loosening contour (144b) at the coupling component (102) is constructed to point toward the connecting section (120) of the retaining component (104).

12. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The release contour (144a, 144b) of the retaining part (104) and / or the coupling part (102) is constructed in such a way that the release contour forms an introduction opening (146) which is open in the plug-in direction (E), wherein the cross section of the introduction opening (146) is reduced in a direction opposite to the plug-in direction (E) via a ramp section (148), so that a release tool (118) can be introduced into the introduction opening (146) and, by means of abutting contact with the ramp section (148), causes a radially outwardly directed release force to act on the retaining part (104).

13. The plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 12, It is characterized in that A spike (150) is formed on the connecting section (120) of the retaining part (104) and is directed radially toward the coupling part (102), and engages in a correspondingly formed recess (152) in the circumference of the coupling part (102) at least in the fully locked position.

14. The plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, It is characterized in that At least one of the tooth structures (110a, 110b) is designed such that at least one tooth structure has a radius (154) at a bending point that is most heavily loaded by a latching connection between the tooth structure (110a, 110b) and a retaining edge (112a, 112b) of the plug component (106).

15. The plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, It is characterized in that The receiving opening (108) of the coupling component (102) is configured with a cylindrical sealing section (156) and with a control section (158) adjoining the cylindrical sealing section (156) and pointing opposite to the plug-in direction (E), wherein the receiving opening (108) has a larger diameter in the control section (158) than in the sealing section (156).

16. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 15, It is characterized in that A transition section (160) is formed axially between the control section (158) and the sealing section (156), which reduces the diameter of the receiving opening (108) in the control section (158) to the diameter of the receiving opening (108) in the sealing section (156), wherein in particular an axially extending groove is formed on the circumferential surface (140) of the control section as a leakage path.

17. The plug coupling (100) according to claim 15 or 16, It is characterized in that The sealing section (156) and the control section (158) are arranged relative to each other in such a way that in the pre-latching position, the plug shaft is arranged with the main seal (164) pointing forward in the plug direction (E) and arranged in the main seal groove (166) abutting against the control section (158), in particular also against the transition section (160), and in the fully latched position, the plug shaft is arranged with the main seal (164) abutting against the sealing section (156).

18. The plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 15 to 17, It is characterized in that The control section (158) of the coupling component (102) is designed in such a way that a dirt seal (162) of the plug component (106) can be arranged in the control section (158), the dirt seal being arranged in particular in a sealing groove (168) of the plug shaft pointing rearward in the plug direction (E), wherein the control section (158) and in particular the transition section (160) are designed in such a way that the dirt seal (162) can be elastically tensioned against a circumferential surface (140) of the receiving opening (108) at least in the fully locked position.

19. A release tool (118) for a plug coupling (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, the release tool being used to transfer the retaining component (104) from the locking position to the release position, It is characterized in that The release tool (118) has a gripping body (172) extending along a longitudinal axis (170) and an expansion body (174) adjacent to the gripping body (172), wherein the gripping body (172) is elastically deformable around the longitudinal axis (170) and is configured to be substantially rigid in the axial direction of the longitudinal axis (170).

20. The release tool (118) according to claim 19, It is characterized in that The maximum displacement path of the retaining element (104) in the radial direction relative to the coupling element (102) corresponds to the depth (180) of the expansion body of the release tool (118).

21. The release tool (118) according to claim 19 or 20, It is characterized in that The expansion body of the release tool (118) is fork-shaped and has two expansion straps (182) protruding axially relative to the longitudinal axis (170) and separated by a central separation gap. The expansion straps are particularly constructed so that when the expansion straps (182) are introduced into the release contours (144a, 144b), the barbs (150) optionally constructed on the connecting section (120) are surrounded and engaged.

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