Fluid line with fluid-conducting bellows

Abstract

The invention relates to a fluid line comprising a bellows (1) and at least one line connector (2). The line connector (2) comprises a connector body (22), the connector body (22) is provided with a plug-in section (3), and the corrugated pipe (1) is plugged on the plug-in section (3). According to the invention, the line connector (2) comprises a fastening device (4) which fastens the bellows (1) to the plug section (3). The plug section (3) has a central axis (M), which defines an axial direction. The pipeline connector (2) comprises at least one sealing ring (6), and the sealing ring (6) is provided with an elastic body. The plug section (3) comprises at least one recess (7) in which the sealing ring (6) is arranged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid pipeline, which comprises a bellows and a pipeline connector, wherein the pipeline connector comprises a connector body, wherein the connector body has a plug-in section, wherein the bellows is plugged into the plug-in section, wherein the pipeline connector comprises a fastening device, wherein the fastening device fastens the bellows to the plug-in section, wherein the plug-in section has a central axis and the central axis defines an axial direction. Background Art

[0002] This fluid pipeline is known from WO 01 / 20216A1, and is used to guide the wiper water with a working pressure of up to 3 bar. The fastening device includes two arms, which extend axially and are arranged radially opposite to each other relative to the central axis and the plug-in section. The arms have three protrusions on their inner sides, which can be embedded in the grooves on the outer side of the bellows. The arms are axially molded inwardly on the pipeline connector or on the flange of the pipeline connector, and have axially outward free ends or ends that are not directly molded on the pipeline connector. Thus, the axially outward ends are spring-elastically movable in the radial direction. This makes it possible to easily and spring-elasticly open the arms when the bellows is pushed onto the plug-in section of the pipeline connector. Then, the protrusions of the arms are locked into the grooves or troughs on the outer side of the bellows, and the bellows are pressed onto the plug-in section. Finally, the securing ring is pushed onto the arm in the axial inward direction until it stops at the flange of the line connector, which surrounds the arm and thus ensures the connection of the line connector to the bellows. The securing ring has projections on its inner side, which engage in respective corresponding grooves on the outer side of the arm and are thus fixed. However, the disadvantage is that in the known fluid lines, sufficient sealing between the line connector and the bellows cannot be achieved at higher pressures.

[0003] Based on the very similar design of the fluid line in DE 10 2005 007 217 B3, the disadvantage of insufficient sealing at higher pressures also exists in this fluid line. In DE 197 23 410 A1, the fluid line at high pressures is also worth improving.

[0004] This shortcoming is overcome by elastic sealing sleeve, as disclosed in DE 10 2011 005 220 A1.This sealing sleeve has the same corrugated profile as bellows, and its diameter is less than the diameter of bellows.Thus, sealing sleeve can be inserted into the bellows.The sealing sleeve comprises a radially outwardly protruding flange on its end towards the pipeline connector.The elastic flange of sealing sleeve is used as a stopper at the leading end of the bellows, and then is used to determine the positioning of sealing sleeve inside the bellows.Then, the bellows is pushed onto the plug-in section with continuous, in fact pure cylindrical surface together with the sealing sleeve of insertion.Yet, it has been found that, although there is sealing sleeve, leakage may also occur from time to time.Therefore, when setting up connection, it is necessary to check carefully whether the fluid line is really sealed in the zone of the plug-in section. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a fluid line having a line connector and a fluid-conducting bellows, wherein the design for producing a reliable fluid-tight connection between the line connector and the bellows is to be simplified.

[0006] This object is achieved by a fluid pipeline, which includes a bellows and at least one pipeline connector, wherein the pipeline connector has a connector body, wherein the connector body includes a plug-in section, wherein the bellows is plugged into the plug-in section, wherein the pipeline connector includes a fastening device, wherein the fastening device fastens the bellows to the plug-in section, wherein the plug-in section has a center axis and the center axis defines an axial direction, wherein the pipeline connector includes at least one sealing ring, wherein the sealing ring has an elastomer, wherein the plug-in section includes at least one groove, wherein the sealing ring is arranged in the groove.

[0007] The present invention is first based on the following understanding: when the bellows is pushed onto the plug-in section together with the elastic sealing sleeve disclosed by DE 10 2011 005 220A1, a force lock or friction lock is generated between the sealing sleeve and the plug-in section. This results in the need to consume greater force in the axial direction. It has been found that this is mainly due to the larger axial extension of the sealing sleeve. This first results in laborious and troublesome installation, and secondly causes the sealing sleeve to slide into a section in the bellows. This sliding may occur because the flange of the sealing sleeve is an elastic structure, which limits the stop effect. In this way, the sealing sleeve is no longer visible, and the assembler also does not know whether the sliding of the sealing sleeve is critical for fluid connection. Therefore, the present invention is based on the following understanding: in particular, when the sealing sleeve slides slightly, but still remains fluid-tight, the assembler must check the fluid tightness. Thus, in addition to the above-mentioned axial force consumption when pushing, a considerable amount of assembly work will also be produced.

[0008] It has been found that the axial force consumption caused by the sealing ring is significantly less than that of the sealing sleeve. However, this also brings about a poor sealing effect, so that the person skilled in the art will not consider such measures. However, the present invention is very particularly based on the following understanding: by arranging a groove for accommodating the sealing ring on the plug-in section, this disadvantage is effectively compensated. Because the groove provides sufficient form-locking for the sealing ring, the sealing ring is reliably prevented from sliding. It is unexpectedly found that although the bellows has a highly staggered surface on its inner side, the sealing ring held by the groove still provides a completely sufficient and always reliable sealing effect on the plug-in section. This is because the form-locking is achieved by the groove, which allows a larger force starting from the bellows and acting radially on the sealing ring. This larger radial force achieves a better sealing effect. At the same time, the connection between the bellows and the pipeline connector can also be established with only a small force and inspection cost, because the seal can have a significantly smaller extension in the axial direction due to the improved sealing effect, thereby producing a correspondingly smaller force lock or friction lock. Thus, there is a fluid line which is reliably fluid-tight, the bellows of which can be produced and inserted continuously (without smooth sections), thus with little effort. As a result, the objects mentioned at the outset are achieved and a reliably sealed fluid line is achieved which, despite the bellows, can be produced and inserted with little effort.

[0009] Compared to the fluid line of DE 197 23 410 A1, it was found that the groove on the plug-in rod is particularly important for fluid tightness. Because through the groove, the sealing ring is in contact with the plug-in section at three locations at the same time (on the two groove walls and on the groove bottom), while the sealing ring in DE 197 23 410 A1 only contacts the cylindrical surface. In addition, the groove helps to improve the tensile strength by embedding the sealing ring not only in the bellows but also in the plug-in section. As a result, even in the case of large axial tensile forces, better fluid tightness is achieved.

[0010] The term "corrugated tube" preferably refers to a tube with alternating inner and outer diameters, which can be, for example, sinusoidal, square-wave or sawtooth corrugated. The term "corrugated tube" was developed in the course of historical development and, as a technical term, usually also refers to square-wave-shaped corrugations of the wall. Terms such as "corrugated" or terms with the root "corrugation" preferably refer to corrugations in a broader sense, and thus to alternating inner and outer diameters, and are in particular not limited to sinusoidal corrugations of the tube wall.

[0011] The terms "troughs" and "peaks" preferably relate to the outside of the bellows, whereby troughs are expediently grooves on the outside of the bellows, wherein the troughs are expediently separated from one another alternately with the peaks in the axial direction. The term "axial" preferably refers to the longitudinal axis or the center axis of the respective relevant section of the plug section or of the pipeline connector or of the bellows. Preferably, the center axis determines the axial component, the radial component and the circumferential component.

[0012] It is possible that the connector body comprises a connection section for connecting to other fluid-conducting components. Preferably, the connector body comprises a fluid channel for fluidly connecting the plug section and the connection section. The other fluid-conducting components may be, for example, other pipes or components. The components may be tanks, pumps, valves, nozzles or the like. The connection section of the connector body is preferably located at the end of the connector body opposite to the plug section in the flow direction.

[0013] The connecting section can be a component that is connected to the other fluid-guiding components in a form-locked, force-locked and / or material-locked manner. For example, the connecting section can be a component of a force-locked press fit between the pipeline connector or the connector body (on the one hand) and the other fluid-guiding components. It is possible that the connecting section is connected to the other fluid-guiding components by welding. According to one embodiment, the connecting section of the pipeline connector or the connector body is connected to the other fluid-guiding components in an integral manner. It is possible that the connecting section or the connector body is integrally molded onto the other fluid-guiding components, for example by injection molding.

[0014] Preferably, the plug-in section comprises an end wall. Advantageously, the end of the plug-in section tapers towards the end wall, so that the bellows can be more easily plugged onto the plug-in section. The term "axially inwards" preferably refers to an axial direction of the plug-in section, which means extending from the front end of the plug-in section to the interior of the plug-in section or the connector body or the pipeline connector. The term "axially inwards" preferably also applies to the bellows, so that the bellows does not become a separate reference system for orientation in an "inward" or "outward" direction. Therefore, the expression "axially" inwards for the bellows advantageously refers to "towards the pipeline connector".

[0015] According to a very preferred embodiment, the section of the corrugated tube that is inserted onto the plug-in section is at least partially and preferably completely corrugated. Preferably, the entire corrugated tube is corrugated along at least 50% or 70% or 90% or 99% of its axial extension. Very particularly preferably, the corrugated tube is continuously corrugated along its entire axial extension. This means that when manufacturing the corrugated tube, it is not necessary to take into account the exact axial length of the corrugated or non-corrugated part. This simplifies the production, especially when shaping the corrugated part after extrusion or coextrusion, and when cutting to length.

[0016] It is very preferred that the fastening device forms or can form at least one form-lock with the bellows in the axial direction. Preferably, the fastening device is embedded in at least one trough on the outside of the bellows. Preferably, the fastening device comprises at least one retaining projection and further preferably comprises at least two retaining projections. Advantageously, the one or more retaining projections are embedded in at least one trough of the bellows. Suitably, the two retaining projections are radially opposite to each other with respect to the central axis. It is possible that a plurality of retaining projections are arranged one behind the other in the axial direction of the fluid line or in a longitudinal section. Preferably, the one or more retaining projections protrude in the radial direction.

[0017] Preferably, the one or more retaining projections have an insertion surface on their axially outward side, wherein the insertion surface is designed to be rounded or chamfered so that the wave crests of the bellows can be inserted more easily. It is possible that the axial inner side of the one or more retaining projections is designed differently from the insertion surface. Preferably, pulling out the bellows is more difficult and the tensile force acting axially outward on the bellows for pulling it out is therefore greater than the pressure acting axially inward on the bellows for inserting the bellows onto the plug-in section. Preferably, the axial inner side of the one or more retaining projections includes a profile in the longitudinal section, which extends in the radial direction to a greater extent than the profile of the axially outward side of the one or more retaining projections.

[0018] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the fastening device or the arm or the securing element applies a clamping force to the bellows or the sealing ring in the radial direction. This firstly achieves a particularly fluid-tight design of the fluid line. In addition, a relatively large clamping force contributes to the mechanical fixing of the bellows on the line connector. The clamping force acting in the radial direction contributes in particular to the positive fit between the fastening device and the bellows.

[0019] Particularly preferably, the fastening device comprises at least two arms, further preferably at least three or four arms. Advantageously, the two arms are arranged radially opposite to each other or the four arms are arranged in pairs radially opposite to each other with respect to the central axis. Suitably, the longest extension of the arm extends in the axial direction or substantially in the axial direction. Advantageously, the axially inward end of the arm is connected to the plug-in section and / or the connecting section and / or the pipe stop and / or the flange of the pipeline connector or the connector body. Preferably, the axially outward end of the arm is free, so that the axially outward end of the arm is preferably spring-elastically movable in the radial direction. Preferably, the arm and the plug-in section define a gap in the longitudinal section, into which the bellows can be inserted or has been inserted. Very preferably, the arm applies a clamping force to the bellows or the sealing ring in the radial direction. Particularly preferably, the arm has the retaining projection on its radial inner side.

[0020] Advantageously, the fluid line or the fastening device or the bellows comprises at least one internal element, wherein the at least one internal element preferably comprises an elastomer or is designed to be rubber-elastic, wherein the internal element is preferably arranged in the radial direction between the fastening device or the arm and the bellows. The at least one internal element can be arranged or fastened on the radial inner side of the arm. It is possible that the at least one internal element has the retaining projection. Each arm can be equipped with an internal element. It is possible that the internal element is fastened to the inner side of the arm by bonding.

[0021] Preferably, the inner element is arranged or fastened on the outer side of the bellows. Very preferably, the inner element is designed as a sleeve. Preferably, the inner element surrounds the end of the bellows that is inserted into the plug-in section. Very preferably, the inner element is designed to be corrugated. Particularly preferably, the inner element is fastened to the end of the bellows by means of a force lock and / or a form lock. Advantageously, the inner element is designed as a corrugated sleeve and is fastened to the end of the bellows by means of a force lock. The elastic inner element produces a stronger force lock or friction lock between the fastening device or the arm and the bellows, whereby the bellows is better fastened to the pipeline connector. Very preferably, the arm is designed to be spring-elastic and / or the inner element is designed to be rubber-elastic.

[0022] It is very preferred that the line connector comprises a tube stop for stopping the front end of the bellows in the axial direction. Advantageously, the bellows is cut to length and / or the line connector is configured or the tube stop is positioned or dimensioned so that the sealing ring, when the bellows is completely pushed onto the plug-in section or when it stops on the tube stop, rests on the inner side of the wave crest of the bellows or is accommodated on the inner side of the wave crest. Advantageously, the bellows is cut to length and / or the line connector is configured or the tube stop is positioned or dimensioned so that the retaining projection of the fastening device or the arm is embedded in the trough of the bellows. Preferably, the retaining projection is arranged on the axial outer side of the sealing ring of the bellows when the bellows is completely pushed onto the plug-in section, so that the sealing ring preferably contributes to the fixing of the bellows or engages with the retaining projection from behind. Advantageously, the bellows is designed to be flexible, so that minor deviations of the completely pushed-on state of the bellows can be compensated for and the sealing ring still rests on the inner side of the bellows.

[0023] Preferably, the plug section has a cylindrical surface or outer side at least partially and preferably along at least 20% or 30% or 40% or 50% of the length of the plug section, thereby ensuring that axially outwardly directed forces originating from the plug section do not act on the corrugated tube.

[0024] Advantageously, the connector body is constructed in one piece and preferably in one piece (in particular by means of injection molding). Suitably, the pipeline connector and / or the bellows contain plastic material. It is possible that the bellows has a single-layer wall or a multi-layer wall. Suitably, the bellows is extruded or coextruded. Preferably, the connector body is manufactured separately from the further pipe or the further fluid component. Suitably, the connecting section comprises an end wall, which actually faces the further fluid component.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the pipeline connector or the fastening device defines an open state for inserting the bellows and a closed state for fixing the bellows. Suitably, the arm defines the open state and the closed state. Advantageously, the arms have a larger spacing from each other in the radial direction in the open state of the fastening device than in the closed state. Suitably, less spring-elastic reset energy is stored in the arm in the open state than in the closed state. Preferably, the pipeline connector is configured so that it can be ensured that the arm or the fastening device is in the closed state, so that the reset energy contained in the arm or the fastening device is stored by a / the safety element and preferably can be released by removing the safety element. Preferably, the reset energy contained in the arm or the fastening device can only be released when the safety element is removed or moved.

[0026] The plug section can have an axial length from the end wall to the / the pipe stop, wherein the sealing ring or the groove is arranged in one of the three middle fifths of the axial length of the plug section. Preferably, the sealing ring and / or the groove is located in the middle fifth of the axial length of the plug section. Advantageously, the surface normal of the groove bottom of the groove extends in the radial direction. It is expedient for the sealing ring to have a rounded, preferably oval or circular cross section along the longitudinal section of the plug section.

[0027] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the line connector or the fluid line comprises a safety element for ensuring a closed state of the fastening device. Preferably, the safety element can be pushed onto the fastening device, preferably in the axial direction and particularly preferably in the axially outward direction. Advantageously, the safety element is constructed separately from the connector body or the fastening device. Advantageously, the safety element comprises plastic. Preferably, the safety element is constructed annularly. Preferably, the safety element at least partially and preferably completely surrounds one end of the fastening device or the connector body or the corrugated tube in the circumferential direction.

[0028] Particularly preferably, the pipeline connector or the fluid pipeline is configured so that the safety element can be moved from the open position to the closed position relative to the connector body, and vice versa. Very preferably, the transfer from the open position to the closed position can be achieved by the movement of the safety element (preferably in the axial direction and particularly preferably in the axial outward direction). Preferably, the safety element guarantees or defines a / the closed state of the fastening device. The safety of the closed state of the fastening device by the safety element can be constructed in a force-locking and / or form-locking manner. Advantageously, the safety element is locked with the connector body or the fastening device in the open position and / or in the closed position. Suitably, the safety element is in the closed position, while the fastening device is simultaneously in the closed state. Suitably, the safety element is in the open position, while the fastening device is in the open state. Advantageously, the connector body or the fastening device includes a guide portion for guiding the safety element from the open position to the closed position and preferably vice versa, wherein the guide portion preferably only allows the movement of the safety element in the axial direction.

[0029] Very preferably, when transitioning from the open position to the closed position, the securing element presses the arms radially inwards, so that the fastening device transitions into the closed state. Particularly preferably, the line connector or the securing element or the connector body or the fastening device is designed such that when transitioning from the open position to the closed position, the securing element moves the arms of the fastening device in the radial direction toward each other, preferably by displacement in the axial direction and particularly preferably in the axially outward direction, so that a clamping force preferably in the radial direction acts on the bellows or an additional clamping force acts on the sealing ring.

[0030] The advantage of the safety element is, on the one hand, that the closed state of the fastening device is ensured. In addition, it is advantageous that the safety element can exert a large radial clamping effect on the fastening device, the bellows or the sealing ring. The safety element also has an indicator function and allows a very simple visual distinction between the closed state and the open state of the fastening device.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, at least a part of the fastening device is manufactured or injection molded separately from the connector body. Suitably, the fastening device or the entire fastening device or the at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body is connected to the connector body in a force-locked, form-locked or material-locked manner. Advantageously, the at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body is not connected to the connector body in an integral manner. The at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body preferably includes an arm, and further preferably includes an arm sleeve. The arm sleeve is preferably constructed at least partially around and preferably completely around. Preferably, the arm is connected to the arm sleeve and is preferably connected to the arm sleeve in an integral manner. The at least one part of the fastening device including the arm and the arm sleeve is preferably manufactured separately from the connector body by injection molding. It is possible that the at least one part of the fastening device manufactured separately from the connector body can be connected to the connector body in one piece (but not in an integral manner) by welding afterwards. The arm sleeve can include an arm sleeve fastener. The arm sleeve fastener can be configured as a locking element for locking with the connector body or the pipe stopper. It is possible that the arm sleeve is preferably fastened to the connector body or the tube stop or the plug section or the connecting section by force-locking, form-locking or material-locking means by means of an arm sleeve fastener. The connector body or the tube stop preferably comprises a latching mechanism for connecting to the arm sleeve fastener. The separate production of the at least part of the fastening device and in particular of the arm from the connector body sometimes allows a more advantageous production of the pipeline connector due to a simpler injection molding geometry.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the pipeline connector comprises a closer, wherein the closer can be rotated at least partially around a central axis, wherein the closer is configured so that the closer can be engaged with at least one trough of the corrugated tube by rotation. Preferably, the closer comprises at least two closer arms. Suitably, at least one closer arm comprises one or the retaining projection for embedding into the trough of the corrugated tube. Advantageously, the closer has a closer sleeve. Suitably, the closer arm is connected to the closer sleeve. Preferably, the closer is one-piece and in particular integrally formed (preferably by injection molding). Preferably, the closer is compressible in the radial direction. Very preferably, the closer arms approach each other in the radial direction due to the rotational movement of the closer. Suitably, the closer sleeve is rotatably supported on the connector body. Advantageously, the closer or multiple closer arms are continuously compressed / moved toward each other in the radial direction due to the rotation around the central axis and due to the contact with the radial inner side of the arm of the fastening device. The closer preferably defines an open position and / or a closed position. The open position can be defined by a stop or latching mechanism of the closer on the connector body and / or the fastening device. The closed position of the closer can be defined by a stop or latching mechanism on the connector body or the fastening device. Possibly, the closed position of the closer is defined based on a force lock between the closer arm and the arm of the fastening device.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the fastening device is configured so that the bellows is locked with the fastening device when it is pushed onto the plug-in section. A very fast connection is thus achieved. Advantageously, the arms of the fastening device are configured in a relaxed state so that the retaining projections of the corresponding arms are embedded in the troughs of the bellows. Preferably, the bellows or the arms are configured so that the crests radially press the arms outward, thereby storing elastic reset energy in the arms until the retaining projections can be (again) embedded in the troughs. Preferably, the arms or retaining projections apply a clamping force acting radially inward to the troughs when embedded in one or more troughs. Preferably, the pipeline connector or the connector body or the fastening device or the arm or the bellows is configured so that the bellows undergoes a plurality of successive locking processes during the push-in period.

[0034] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the pipeline connector comprises an indicating device, in particular an indicating element and / or an indicating mark, for indicating a / the closing state of the fastening device. The indicating element can be designed to be movable or immovable. Advantageously, the / the safety element or the / the closer is an indicating element, so that the closing state of the fastening device or the fluid pipeline is indicated by the position of the safety element or the closer. Preferably, the indicating element is movable in the axial direction and / or in the radial direction.

[0035] Very particularly preferably, the indicator mark comprises a visually readable or electromagnetically readable device. It is possible that the electromagnetically readable device is readable by means of radio. The fluid line can include a sensor for detecting the closed state of the fastening device. The sensor can be connected to a communication unit, such as an RFID chip, so that preferably an external reading device can read the state of the fastening device. The visually readable device can be, for example, a symbol, a barcode or a QR code. According to a preferred embodiment, the visually readable device appears due to the transition of the safety element or the closer from the open position to the closed position. Very particularly preferably, the indicator mark or the visually readable device is covered by the safety element or the closer in the open position or the closed position and can be optically read by the reading device in the closed position or the open position of the safety element or the closer.

[0036] The objects mentioned at the outset are achieved by the use of a fluid line in a vehicle, preferably in a land vehicle, more preferably in a road vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle is an electric vehicle and has a battery for driving an electric motor. Preferably, the fluid line is a component of a coolant circuit for cooling the battery.

[0037] The invention is described below with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments with a number of schematic diagrams. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] In the figure:

[0039] Figure 1 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a first fluid conduit according to the present invention,

[0040] Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section of a second fluid line according to the invention, wherein the fastening device is in an open state,

[0041] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 A fluid pipeline wherein the fastening device is in a closed state,

[0042] Figure 4 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a third fluid conduit according to the present invention,

[0043] Figure 5 shows a longitudinal sectional view of a fourth fluid conduit according to the present invention,

[0044] Fig. 6A Show Figure 5 a cross-sectional view of a fluid line with the fastening device in an open state, and

[0045] Figure 6B Show Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a fluid line with the fastening device in a closed state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Figure 1 A first embodiment of the invention is shown in the form of a fluid line 1, 2 comprising a bellows 1 and a line connector 2. The bellows 1 can contain one or more plastics and is in particular designed as a multilayer tube. The line connector 2 comprises a connector body 22, wherein the connector body 22 is preferably designed as a one-piece and particularly preferably as an integrally formed structure. The connector body 22 comprises a plug section 3 inserted into the bellows 1. The plug section 3 has a central axis M, which defines the axial, radial and circumferential directions.

[0047] The connector body 22 preferably includes a connecting section 23. In practice, the fluid channel 16 connects the plug section 3 to the connecting section 23 fluid. The connecting section 23 can be connected to other fluid-guiding components not shown here by force locking, form locking or material locking. Other fluid-guiding components can be other pipes or components. Components are, for example, pumps, nozzles, tanks and the like. However, the connecting section 23 can also be connected to other fluid-guiding components in an integral manner. It is possible that the connector body 2 can be, for example, injection molded on other fluid-guiding components. Suitably, the fluid channel 16 fluidly connects the bellows 1 to other fluid-guiding components.

[0048] according to Figure 1 The bellows 1 of the embodiment of the embodiment of the present invention is sinusoidally corrugated. In other embodiments not shown here, the bellows can be designed as rectangular corrugations. On the outside of the bellows 1, wave troughs 5 and wave crests 15 are advantageously alternated. Preferably, the bellows 1 is at least partially corrugated in the axial overlap region with the plug-in section 3 and preferably is designed to be continuously corrugated. Very particularly preferably, the entire bellows 1 is designed to be continuously corrugated.

[0049] from Figure 1 As can be further seen in FIG, the pipeline connector 2 comprises a sealing ring 6. The sealing ring 6 preferably contains an elastic material and further preferably consists exclusively of an elastic material. The sealing ring 6 is arranged in a groove 7, wherein the groove 7 is arranged in the region of the plug section 3 and preferably on the outside of the plug section 3. The groove 7 expediently comprises a groove bottom 9.

[0050] according to Figure 1 The pipeline connector 2 comprises a fastening device 4, wherein the fastening device 4 fastens the corrugated tube 1 to the plug-in section 3. Advantageously, the fastening device 4 comprises at least two arms 8, which are preferably arranged radially opposite to each other with respect to the center axis M. Preferably, the fastening device 4 or the arm 8 respectively has at least one retaining projection 12 protruding radially inward. Preferably, the retaining projection 12 is arranged on the axial free end of the arm 8. Preferably, the retaining projection 12 has an inclined insertion surface at its axial outer side to facilitate the insertion of the corrugated tube 1.

[0051] Preferably, according to Figure 1 The arms 8 are designed to be spring-elastic in the radial direction at their free ends, so that when the bellows 1 is inserted onto the plug-in section 3, the wave crests 15 preload the arms 8 elastically radially outward. Then, when the arms 8 or the retaining projections 12 reach the next wave valley 5, they release their stored restoring energy and engage in the corresponding wave valley 5. Preferably, the retaining projections 12 are not designed to be inclined or rounded on their axial inner sides, so that the bellows 1 is correspondingly more difficult to pull out, or ideally prevented from being pulled out.

[0052] It is very preferred that the fastening device 4 has a tube stop 13, see Figure 1 . The pipe connector 2 is preferably configured so that when the bellows 1 is completely pushed onto the plug-in section 3, the bellows abuts against the pipe stop 13 with the front end 14. Advantageously, the pipe stop 13 defines the axial length of the overlap between the bellows 1 and the plug-in section 3. Very particularly preferably, the bellows 1 and / or the pipe connector 2 are configured so that when the bellows 1 is completely pushed onto the plug-in section 3, the sealing ring 6 abuts against the inner recess of the wave crest 15. Very preferably, the bellows 1 and the pipe connector 2 are configured so that when the bellows 1 is completely pushed onto the plug-in section 3, the retaining protrusion 12 is embedded in the wave trough 5 of the bellows 1.

[0053] In accordance with Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the tube stop 13 is connected in one piece and preferably in one piece with the arm 8 or the retaining projection 12. Advantageously, the tube stop 13 or the arm 8 is connected in one piece or in one piece with the plug section 3 and / or the connecting section 23 or the connector body 22.

[0054] Particularly preferably, in the state where the corrugated tube 1 is preferably completely pushed onto the plug section 3, Figure 1 The arms 8 or the retaining projections 12 exert a force acting radially inwards on the wave valleys 5. This increases the force connection with the sealing ring 6. Figure 1 The embodiment of is generally particularly suitable for producing a fluid-tight connection between the line connector 2 and the corrugated tube 1 by means of only one plug-in movement. Figure 1 The embodiment is more suitable for fluid lines 1, 2 or fluid applications with lower pressure.

[0055] In the embodiment not shown here, the retaining projection 12 engages in a wave valley 5 which, in the fully inserted state of the bellows 1, is adjacent to a wave crest 15 of the sealing ring 6. Very particularly preferably, the retaining projection 12 is located in a wave valley 5 which is immediately behind the wave crest 15 with the sealing ring 6 in the axial outward direction.

[0056] according to Figure 2 The second embodiment is constructed identically with respect to the corrugated tube 1. The line connector 2 is also identical with respect to the first embodiment with respect to the fluid channel 16, the connecting section 23, the plug section 3, the sealing ring 6 and the groove 7. Figure 1 The first embodiment and the Figure 2 The difference between the second embodiment and the second embodiment mainly lies in the fastening device 4.

[0057] according to Figure 2 The fastening device 4 preferably comprises at least two arms 8, which preferably extend in the axial direction with their longitudinal extension. The pipeline connector 2 expediently comprises a pipe stop 13. The pipe stop 13 is preferably connected to the connecting section 23 or the plug section 3 in one piece or in one piece. Figure 2 In the present embodiment, the tube stop 13 is connected in one piece and preferably in one piece with the arm 8. The fastening device 4 or the arm 8 can have one holding projection 12 or respectively have a plurality of holding projections 12, so that the holding projection 12 of the fastening device 4 can be embedded in a plurality of wave valleys 5.

[0058] Preferably, according to Figure 2 The fastening device 4 comprises at least one internal element 17. The at least one internal element is preferably arranged on the inner side of each arm 8 and preferably comprises one retaining projection 12 or a plurality of retaining projections 12. Advantageously, the internal element 17 or the plurality of internal elements 17 comprise an elastomer or consist of an elastomer. It is possible that the internal element 17 is bonded to the inner side of the corresponding arm 8. Preferably, the arms 8 are configured such that their free ends have a greater radial distance from each other in the relaxed state than in the tensioned state. Very preferably, the relaxed state of the arms 8 corresponds to the open state of the fastening device 4. Suitably, the tensioned state of the arms 8 corresponds to the closed state of the fastening device 4.

[0059] Preferably, according to Figure 2 The pipeline connector 2 comprises a safety element 10 for ensuring the closed state of the fastening device. The safety element 10 is preferably configured in an annular shape. Preferably, the safety element 10 is arranged movably in the axial direction relative to the fastening device 4 or relative to the connector body 22. Preferably, the safety element 10 is in an open position in the open state of the fastening device 4, such as Figure 2 shown.

[0060] Figure 3 Show Figure 2A second embodiment of the invention is provided, in which the fluid lines 1, 2 or the fastening device 4 are in the closed state and the safety element 10 is in the closed position. It is very preferred that the safety element 10 is arranged axially further outward in a / the closed position than in the open position. The closed position and / or the open position are preferably defined by latching elements (not shown here) on the connector body 22 or on the fastening device 4 and the safety element 10. It is very preferred that the safety element 10 and the fastening device 4 are configured such that the arms 8 move towards each other in the radial direction due to the closed position of the safety element 10. It is preferred that the retaining projections 12 engage in the troughs 5 in the closed state of the fastening device 4 and produce a positive fit.

[0061] Very particularly preferably, the securing element 10 in the closed position and the fastening device 4 in the closed state are designed such that the arms 8 exert a force acting radially inwards on the bellows 1 or the sealing ring 6. Advantageously, due to the force exerted on the arms 8 by the securing element 10, a force connection is produced between the outer side of the bellows 1 and the inner element 17 or the arms 8. Preferably, the closed position of the securing element 10 increases the force connection between the sealing ring 6 and the bellows 1 compared to the open state of the fastening device 4 or the fluid line 1, 2. Due to the securing element 10 and / or the inner element 17, according to Figure 2 and 3 The embodiment is suitable for larger fluid pressures.

[0062] exist Figure 4 4 shows a third embodiment of the fastening device 4 in a closed state. The bellows 1 of the third embodiment is the same as the bellows 1 of the first two embodiments. The difference between the third embodiment and the other embodiments is also reflected in the fastening device 4. Preferably, the pipeline connector 2 or the connector body 22 includes a pipe stopper 13. The pipe stopper 13 of this embodiment is suitably connected to the connecting section 23 or the plug section 3 in one piece or in an integral manner.

[0063] However, in the case of the third embodiment, the tube stop 13 is not connected in one piece with the arm 8. Preferably, at least two and preferably at least four arms 8 are connected to each other via an arm sleeve 18. Suitably, the arm 8 and the arm sleeve 18 are connected to each other in one piece and preferably in one piece. Preferably, the arm sleeve 18 comprises an arm sleeve fastener 19. The arm sleeve fastener 19 can be designed as a latching element, which interacts with the tube stop 13 and is preferably embedded in the tube stop 13.

[0064] Preferably, the fastening device 4 of the third embodiment comprises an inner element 17, as has already been described in the case of the second embodiment. The arms 8 of the fastening device 4 of the third embodiment are preferably configured such that they are closer to each other in the open state than in the Figure 4 The larger radial spacing in the closed state is shown in FIG.

[0065] The safety element 10 of the third embodiment has a greater extension in the axial direction than the safety element 10 of the second embodiment. Figure 4 The closed position shown in and / or the open position not shown here are defined by a locking element between the arm 8 or the arm sleeve 18 and the safety element 10. Preferably, the safety element 10 is arranged axially further inwards in the open position than in the closed position. Particularly preferably, the safety element 10 exerts a greater radially inward force on the arm 8 or the inner element 17 or the bellows 1 or the sealing ring 6 in the closed position than in the open position. Therefore, the main difference between the third and the second embodiment is the arm 8 manufactured separately. This allows a simpler injection mold to be used for the pipeline connector 2. In addition, the inner element 17 can thus be better fastened to the inner side of the arm 8.

[0066] exist Figure 5 , a fourth embodiment of a fluid pipeline 1, 2 according to the present invention is shown. The fluid pipeline 1, 2 comprises a bellows 1 and a pipeline connector 2. The bellows 1 is designed in the same manner as the bellows 1 of the other embodiments. The pipeline connector 2 comprises a fastening device 4 and a fluid channel 16. The fluid channel 16 is formed by the plug section 3 and preferably by the connecting section 23. The plug section 3, the connecting section 23, the sealing ring 6 and the groove 7 are constructed in the same manner as the other embodiments.

[0067] The pipeline connector 2 comprises a tube stop 13, wherein the tube stop is preferably connected in one piece and further preferably integrally to the plug section 3 or the connecting section 23. Advantageously, the fastening device 4 comprises two arms 8. The arms 8 of the fourth embodiment are expediently arranged diametrically opposite each other with respect to the center axis M. Preferably, the arms 8 are connected in one piece and further preferably integrally to the tube stop 13.

[0068] Particularly preferably, the pipeline connector 2 comprises a closure 11, which is arranged on the inner side of the arm 8. Preferably, the closure 11 is configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction relative to the arm 8, such as from Fig. 6A and Figure 6B This is clearly visible in the cross-sectional view. Fig. 6A The closure 11 is shown in its open position, while Figure 6B The closed position of the closer 11 is shown. The closer 11 preferably comprises two closer arms 20 which are diametrically opposed to one another about the central axis M. The closer arms 20 are connected to one another in the circumferential direction by a closer sleeve (not shown here). Suitably, the closer sleeve is positioned axially further inwards than the closer arms 20.

[0069] The closer arms 20 are preferably designed to be spring-elastic in the radial direction. The arms 8 are preferably designed to be rigid. It is very preferred that the closer 11 is compressed in the radial direction by the arms 8 due to the rotational movement, or that the closer arms 20 are moved radially toward each other, so that the closer arms 20 engage with at least one wave valley 5 or two wave peaks 15. Thus, the closer arms 20 or their retaining projections 12 engage with the wave peaks, such as in Figure 5 and Figure 6B Visible in.

[0070] Preferably, the overlap between the closer arm 20 and the arm 8 in the circumferential direction is smaller in the open position than in the closed position. Preferably, the closer arm 20 tapers in cross section (in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction) in the circumferential direction. Very preferably, the closer 11 in the closed position exerts a force acting radially inwards on the bellows 1 or the sealing ring 6. Preferably, in the case of the closer in the open position ( Fig. 6A ), there is no force lock or form lock with the bellows 1.

[0071] In an embodiment not shown here, the safety element 10 or the closer 11 can be an indicator element 10, 11 for indicating an open or closed position. It is possible that the indicator element 10, 11 covers an indicator mark (not shown here), for example in the form of a QR code, on the connector body 22 in the open position. In each closed position, the indicator mark is released by the indicator element 10, 11, so that a scanner can read the state of the indicator element 10, 11 based on the indicator mark.

[0072] List of reference numerals:

[0073] 1 Bellows

[0074] 2 Pipeline connector

[0075] 3 Plug-in section

[0076] 4 Fastening device

[0077] 5 Trough

[0078] 6 Sealing protrusion

[0079] 7 Grooves

[0080] 8 arms

[0081] 9 Slot bottom

[0082] 10. Safety element

[0083] 11. Closer

[0084] 12. Retaining tab

[0085] 13 Tube stopper

[0086] 14 Front end

[0087] 15 Crest

[0088] 16 Fluid Channels

[0089] 17 Internal components

[0090] 18 Arm sleeve

[0091] 19 Arm sleeve fastener

[0092] 20 Closer arm

[0093] 21 end wall

[0094] 22 Connector body

[0095] 23 Connection section

[0096] M Center axis

[0097] 10, 11 indicator element

[0098] 1.2 Fluid pipeline

Claims

1. A fluid pipeline (1, 2), comprising a bellows (1) and at least one pipeline connector (2), wherein the pipeline connector (2) comprises a connector body (22), the connector body (22) having a plug-in section (3), the bellows (1) being plugged onto the plug-in section (3), the pipeline connector (2) comprising a fastening device (4), the fastening device (4) fastening the bellows (1) to the plug-in section (3) or the connector body (22), the plug-in section (3) having a central axis (M) and the central axis (M) defining an axial direction, It is characterized in that The pipeline connector (2) comprises at least one sealing ring (6) which comprises an elastomer, and the plug section (3) comprises at least one groove (7) in which the sealing ring (6) is arranged.

2. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to claim 1, wherein: The section of the corrugated tube (1) which is pushed onto the plug-in section (3) is at least partially and preferably completely corrugated.

3. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein: The fastening device (4) forms or is capable of forming at least one form-fitting connection with the corrugated tube (1) in the axial direction.

4. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The fastening device (4) or the pipeline connector (2) applies a clamping force to the bellows (1) or the sealing ring (6) in a radial direction.

5. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The fastening device (4) comprises at least two arms (8) which are preferably arranged radially opposite one another with respect to the center axis (M) and which preferably extend in the axial direction.

6. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The fluid line (1, 2) or the fastening device (4) or the bellows (1) has at least one internal element (17), which preferably comprises an elastomer or is designed to be rubber-elastic, and the internal element (17) is preferably arranged in the radial direction between the fastening device (4) or the arm (8) and the bellows (1).

7. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The pipe connector (2) comprises a pipe stopper (13) for stopping the front end portion (14) of the corrugated pipe (1) in the axial direction.

8. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The plug section (3) has a cylindrical surface or outer side at least in regions.

9. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The pipe connector (2) or the fastening device (4) defines an open state for inserting the corrugated tube (1) and a closed state for fixing the corrugated tube (1).

10. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The pipe connector (2) comprises a safety element (10) for ensuring the closed state of the fastening device (4), wherein preferably, the safety element (10) for ensuring the closed state of the fastening device (4) can be pushed onto the fastening device (4), preferably in the axial direction and in particular in the axial outward direction.

11. The fluid line (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: At least a portion (8, 19) of the fastening device (4) is manufactured separately from the connector body (22), and the separately manufactured portion (8, 19) of the fastening device (4) is connected to the connector body (22).

12. The fluid pipeline (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The pipe connector (2) comprises a closer (11) which can be rotated at least partially around the center axis (M), and the closer (11) is configured so that it can engage with at least one wave valley (5) of the corrugated tube (1) by the rotation.

13. The fluid line (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The fastening device (4) is designed so that the corrugated tube (1) is locked with the fastening device (4) when it is pushed onto the plug-in section (3).

14. The fluid line (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The pipeline connector (2) comprises an indicating device, in particular an indicating element (10, 11) and / or an indicating mark, for indicating the closed state of the fastening device (4).

15. Use of a fluid line (1, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 in a vehicle, preferably in a land vehicle, further preferably in a road vehicle, wherein preferably the vehicle is an electric vehicle and has a battery for driving an electric motor, wherein the fluid line is preferably a component of a coolant circuit for cooling the battery.

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