Connecting device

Abstract

A connecting device is used for connecting a process connecting piece to a sensor shell. The connecting device comprises an inner connecting part and an outer connecting part, wherein the inner connecting part is arranged on the sensor shell and the process connecting piece; the outer connecting part surrounds the inner connecting part, when the inner connecting part is arranged on the sensor shell, the outer connecting part is arranged on the process connecting piece, or when the inner connecting part is arranged on the process connecting piece, the outer connecting part is arranged on the sensor shell; and the elastic element is partially arranged in the inner connecting part. The resilient element includes at least three connection portions, each of which extends through a respective opening in the inner connection portion and is connected with an inner side of the outer connection portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a connection device for a process connector on a sensor housing. Background Technology

[0002] Some sensors can be used to measure one or more process parameters, such as one or more process parameters of the medium in a container. Such sensors, for example, measure the liquid level and / or temperature of the medium in the container. The corresponding measurement methods can be non-contact, or the process parameters can be determined using a probe immersed in the medium.

[0003] In such measurement methods, it is typically required that a container holding the medium be connected to the sensor housing via a so-called process connector. In addition to this mechanical process connector, an electrical connection is also needed between the container and the sensor housing to perform the measurement of process parameters.

[0004] Rotation-resistant connections can be established between process connectors and sensor housings, for example, through welding, bonding, or threading. However, if rotation of the process connector relative to the sensor housing is necessary, rotatable designs cannot be achieved through welding or bonding. Furthermore, welding and bonding processes are typically expensive. For threaded connections, electrical contact can usually only be achieved through rotatable contacts located on the axis of rotation of the thread. However, rotatable contacts are expensive, and manufacturing multiple such electrical contacts is often difficult.

[0005] To establish a rotatable connection between the process connector and the sensor housing, snap-fit ​​connections, connections via locking rings, or connections via pins passing through holes in the process connector can also be used. Furthermore, patent document DE102021111990B3 describes a connection between a process connector and a sensor housing in which the sensor housing and the process connector have annular grooves on their respective outer and inner circumferences, in which fixing elements are disposed.

[0006] However, the mechanical strength of the snap-fit ​​connection between the process connector and the housing is limited. Due to the different coefficients of thermal expansion of the components in the snap-fit ​​connection, the connection may become unstable when the temperature around the sensor housing and the process connector changes. When using a locking ring, the engagement point of the locking ring needs to be accessible. Therefore, multiple housing components are typically required. This hinders the so-called "blind engagement" between the process connector and the sensor housing, which requires a single housing component. Furthermore, the use of a locking ring generally does not allow for rotational restrictions between the process connector and the sensor housing.

[0007] When using pins with holes to form a connection between a process connector and a sensor housing, manufacturing the holes for the pins can be expensive, especially when long, thin drill bits encounter inclined surfaces. Furthermore, it may be that, for example, the corresponding long, thin cylindrical pins are not commercially available, thus incurring additional costs in manufacturing them. In addition, the pins need to withstand vibration loads and provide a safety guarantee to prevent slippage from the corresponding holes. This safety guarantee typically requires precise and expensive manufacturing of the interface, as well as the introduction of threads, crimp connections, or the use of adhesives for protection. However, adhesives that could damage the sensor housing or react with the medium whose process parameters are being measured cannot be used. Furthermore, it is generally difficult to manufacture rotatable connections with rotational limitations using pins.

[0008] As described in patent document publication number DE102021111990B3, the connection requires a large number of small parts, thus increasing cost and installation workload compared to other connections. Furthermore, such a connection is visible from the outside, for example, due to the screw heads, and is removable from the outside. In some environments, visible screw heads may lead to a certain amount of contaminated edges, which is undesirable, for example, in hygienic applications. Moreover, the connection described in patent document publication number DE102021111990B3 does not include rotational limitations. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to create a device that enables a stable and reliable connection between a process connector and a sensor housing, which has low cost and requires less installation work, and can be either rotatable or anti-rotation.

[0010] This objective is achieved by having a connecting device according to the invention. Advantageous improvements of the invention can be obtained from the specification and drawings.

[0011] A connecting device is provided for connecting a process connector to a sensor housing. The connecting device includes: an inner connecting portion disposed on the sensor housing or the process connector; an outer connecting portion surrounding the inner connecting portion, wherein the outer connecting portion is disposed on the process connector when the inner connecting portion is disposed on the sensor housing, or vice versa; and a resilient element partially disposed within the inner connecting portion. The resilient element includes at least three connecting portions, each of which extends through a corresponding opening in the inner connecting portion and connects to the inside of the outer connecting portion.

[0012] Therefore, the inner connecting portion is either located on the sensor housing and the outer connecting portion is located on the process connector, or vice versa, the inner connecting portion is located on the process connector and the outer connecting portion is located on the sensor housing. Thus, the inner and outer connecting portions can be said to be mutually engaged, wherein, during the installation of the connecting device or the establishment of the connection, the inner and outer connecting portions move axially along a predetermined axis. The inner and outer connecting portions can be designed, for example, to be cylindrical, and can move and rotate relative to each other without elastic elements.

[0013] Because the elastic element includes at least three connecting portions, it is possible to fix the inner connecting portion to the outer connecting portion, preventing lateral movement, for example, preventing movement in the radial direction, which extends perpendicular to the axial direction or perpendicular to the common axis of the process connector and the sensor housing. For example, when the inner and outer connecting portions are cylindrical, the three connecting portions of the elastic element can achieve a stable concentric arrangement of the cylindrical connecting portions. Furthermore, the connection between the connecting portions of the elastic element and the inner side of the outer connecting portion prevents longitudinal movement between the inner and outer connecting portions or between the process connector and the sensor housing, for example, preventing axial movement along the common axis of the process connector and the sensor housing.

[0014] The connection between the connecting portion of the elastic element and the inner side of the outer connecting portion can be implemented as a force-locking connection (kraftschlüssig). In such a connection, the elastic element is pressed against the inner wall of the outer connecting portion with a sufficiently large force to prevent axial movement between the inner and outer connecting portions. Alternatively or additionally, the connection between the connecting portion of the elastic element and the inner side of the outer connecting portion can also be implemented as a form-locking connection (formschlüssigeVerbindung). In a form-locking connection, the connecting portion abuts against, for example, a stop or step on the inner side of the outer connecting portion, or the connecting portion engages with a groove on the inner side.

[0015] In general, the connecting device allows the inner connecting portion to be fixed to the outer connecting portion, or the process connecting portion to the sensor housing, and vice versa, in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the axial direction, for example, along the common central axis of the process connecting member and the sensor housing) and in the lateral direction (e.g., in a direction extending radially outward from the common central axis perpendicular to the axial direction). However, in the circumferential direction perpendicular to the longitudinal and lateral directions, the inner and outer connecting portions are not necessarily fixed, thus rotatable embodiments of the connecting device are possible, in which the process connecting member can, for example, rotate relative to the sensor housing at a predefined angle.

[0016] For example, when the connection between the connecting portion of the elastic element and the inner side of the outer connecting portion is implemented as a form-lock connection, the connecting device can absorb high forces in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. Furthermore, the connecting device is durable against temperature fluctuations because the connection between the process connector and the sensor housing is established through at least three connecting portions passing through corresponding openings in the inner connecting portion from the inside out, and the elastic element is also connected to the inner side of the outer connecting portion.

[0017] Because the elastic element is partially located within the inner connection portion and only contacts the inner side of the outer connection portion to establish a connection, the elastic element is not visible from the outside once the connection between the process connector and the sensor housing is established. Furthermore, the connection device comprises fewer parts, thus requiring less installation work. Additionally, the connection device allows for so-called "blind engagement" during installation, eliminating the need for predefined orientation of the process connector relative to the sensor housing.

[0018] Furthermore, during the installation of the connecting device, linear engagement and the establishment of multiple electrical contacts can be achieved simultaneously, because the installation of the elastic element can be performed through linear movement until the connecting portion reaches the corresponding opening of the inner connecting portion and establishes a connection with the inner side of the outer connecting portion. Additionally, the seal between the sensor housing and the process connector can be achieved independently of the mechanical connection established by the connecting device. For example, an additional O-ring can be provided for this seal, independent of the elastic element, and positioned between the inner and outer connecting portions.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the elastic element includes at least one rotation limiting element capable of engaging with at least one complementary element disposed on the outer connecting portion to limit an angle at which the outer connecting portion can rotate relative to the inner connecting portion in the circumferential direction of the inner connecting portion. Therefore, the rotation limiting element is configured to determine the angle of relative rotation between the process connector and the sensor housing in the circumferential direction.

[0020] In particular, such a defined angle can also be zero, thus preventing rotation between the process connector and the sensor housing, thereby fixing them to each other in a rotation-resistant manner. Therefore, this is a special case of rotation-preventing rotation limitation, achieved through rotation-limiting elements and complementary elements.

[0021] The elastic element is designed as a ring-shaped, curved wire element with an open end. In this embodiment, the corresponding connecting portion is designed as a corresponding connecting arc extending outward from the circumference of the wire element, and the rotation limiting element may include at least one of the two end portions of the wire element. In this respect, the circumference of the wire element refers to the ring-shaped profile of the wire element outside the connecting arc. The elastic element can be designed as a ring-shaped, curved wire element, thus facilitating manufacturing, thereby resulting in a lower manufacturing cost for the connecting device in such an embodiment. This also applies to rotation limiting achieved through one of the two end portions of the wire element.

[0022] A complementary element disposed on the outer connecting portion may include at least one pin capable of engaging one of the two end portions. For example, such an end portion may extend radially outward from the circumference of the wire element and abut against the pin serving as the complementary element. It can be said that such an end portion extends in the same plane as the remaining wire element. In particular, two pins may be provided as complementary elements, disposed on the outer connecting portion, serving as stops for the two end portions of the wire element. By means of two such pins and two corresponding end portions of the wire element, a rotation-resistant connection can also be established between the process connector and the sensor housing when the distance between the two pins is appropriately selected.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the complementary element may include a recess on the outer connecting element capable of engaging at least one of the two end portions of the wire element. In this embodiment, at least one of the two end portions of the wire element extends at least partially in the axial direction, i.e., extending from the plane extending from the remaining wire element. In particular, both end portions of the wire element may extend into the recess. In this embodiment, rotation of the process connector relative to the sensor housing is limited by at least one of the two end portions abutting against a corresponding edge of the recess. Thus, the edge or wall of the recess serves as a stop for the end portion of the wire element and prevents further rotation of the process connector relative to the sensor housing.

[0024] Generally, the angle at which the recess extends within the outer connecting portion in the circumferential direction determines the rotation angle of the process connector relative to the sensor housing. When the in-line element is in a relaxed state, a rotation-resistant connection can be established between the process connector and the sensor housing when the opening angle between the two end portions is equal to or slightly greater than the angle at which the recess extends in the circumferential direction.

[0025] Furthermore, the complementary element may include a pin and a recess disposed on the outer connecting portion, such that one of the two end portions of the wire element engages with the recess and extends in the axial direction, while the other end portion abuts against the pin as a stop and extends in the radial direction. In this way, safe rotational limitation between the process connector and the sensor housing can be achieved regardless of the direction of rotation of the process connector and the sensor housing relative to each other. A proper arrangement of the pin and recess ensures that when rotation of the process connector relative to the sensor housing is limited, the resulting force acts in the corresponding direction, which strengthens rather than weakens the connection between the connecting portion of the elastic element and the inner side of the outer connecting portion.

[0026] As an alternative to the wire element embodiment, the elastic element can also be a plastic part or a die-cast part, with the connecting portion of the elastic element extending radially outward from the circumference of the elastic element. In this embodiment, the rotation limiting element is designed as a protrusion extending in the axial direction of the plastic part and capable of engaging with a recess on the outer connecting element, the recess forming a complementary element. If the plastic part has a certain extension or thickness in the radial direction, the circumference (from which the connecting portion extends radially outward) refers to the outer perimeter of the plastic part. The axial direction of the plastic part extends along a longitudinal direction defined by the common axis of the process connector and the sensor housing. The radial direction (from which the connecting portion extends) is defined as perpendicular to the axial direction and therefore extends outward from the common axis of the process connector and the sensor housing.

[0027] In particular, die castings can be manufactured simply and at low cost.

[0028] Each connecting portion can be flexibly positioned on the circumference of the plastic part, i.e., connected by corresponding arms that extend in the circumferential direction of the plastic part and connect with the remaining plastic parts (i.e., the body of the plastic part). A gap may also exist between the arms on which the connecting portions are located and the completely encircling portion or the body of the plastic part, allowing the connecting portions to move flexibly relative to the remaining plastic parts to pre-tighten the connecting portions when the connecting device is installed. Such plastic parts can be formed into compact units and can be manufactured at a lower cost.

[0029] At least one connecting portion extending radially outward from the circumference of the plastic part can be aligned opposite to another connecting portion in the circumferential direction. Therefore, at least one connecting portion is capable of absorbing forces in both the circumferential and opposite directions, i.e., absorbing forces in both possible rotational directions of the process connector relative to the sensor housing. Thus, the connecting portion of the plastic part can absorb forces in both rotational directions and support anti-rotation fixation or rotation restriction between the process connector and the sensor housing.

[0030] According to another embodiment, particularly in embodiments involving plastic or die-cast parts, the elastic element may also have at least four connecting portions extending radially outward from the circumference of the elastic element. Using at least four connecting portions enhances the radial and axial fixation of the process connector on the sensor housing. Furthermore, in this embodiment, two connecting portions may be arranged or aligned in pairs, opposite to each other, in the circumferential direction.

[0031] Similar to the previous embodiment, in this embodiment, the elastic element is designed as a wire element, and to limit rotation, one end portion of the wire element is embedded in a recess, while the second end portion can reach a position contacting the pin. This embodiment, with two connecting portions arranged opposite to each other in the circumferential direction, allows the elastic element to absorb forces in both rotational directions in the circumferential direction, thereby strengthening the anti-rotation fixation or rotation restriction of the process connector on the sensor housing. Furthermore, by absorbing forces, inward movement of the connecting portions in the radial direction can be prevented, thereby preventing any impact on or damage to the axial fixation of the process connector on the sensor housing.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the elastic element can be designed as a ring-shaped sheet metal part with a gap in the circumferential direction. The connecting portion can extend radially outward from the circumference of the sheet metal part.

[0033] The embodiment of the annular sheet metal part allows for low-cost manufacturing of the elastic element. The circumferential clearance allows the annular sheet metal part to be pre-tightened during the installation of the connecting device, i.e., in a manner similar to the open area in an embodiment where the elastic element is an annular, curved wire element with an open end.

[0034] Additionally, the annular sheet metal part includes a rotation limiting element capable of engaging with at least one complementary element disposed on the outer connecting portion to limit the outer connecting portion from rotating relative to the inner connecting portion in the circumferential direction of the inner connecting portion at that angle. The rotation limiting element of the annular sheet metal part can extend radially inward from the circumference of the annular sheet metal part or extend in the axial direction.

[0035] Such a radially inward or axially extending rotational limiting element can interact with complementary elements on the outer connecting portion in a similar manner, for example, abutting against the pin of the outer connecting element or engaging with the recess of the outer connecting element, like the open end of the wire element.

[0036] Furthermore, the elastic element can be integrated into the sensor housing or process connector. In this embodiment, the portion of the sensor housing or process connector can be designed in a manner similar to the plastic parts described above. If the elastic element is integrated into the sensor housing or process connector and forms an integral unit with one of the sensor housing or process connectors, the number of components in the connecting device is reduced, thus requiring only two parts, such as an inner connecting portion and an outer connecting portion with the integrated elastic element.

[0037] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for connecting a process connector and a sensor housing. The sensor housing has an inner connecting portion, while the process connector has an outer connecting portion, or the sensor housing has an outer connecting portion, while the process connector has an inner connecting portion.

[0038] According to this method, firstly, an elastic element having at least three connecting portions is disposed within the connecting portions. Then, an inner connecting portion is disposed within an outer connecting portion, for example, by linearly moving the inner and outer connecting portions relative to each other along a common central axis defined in an axial direction. Then, the inner and outer connecting portions are moved relative to each other in the axial and / or circumferential directions of the inner and outer connecting portions, causing the elastic element to move such that the connecting portions of the elastic element extend through corresponding openings in the inner connecting portion and connect to the inside of the outer connecting portion.

[0039] Therefore, this method is used to install the connecting device described above. Thus, the description of the connecting device above also applies to this method. In particular, this applies to the advantages and preferred embodiments. It should also be understood that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, all features mentioned herein can be combined with each other.

[0040] According to this method, the elastic element is initially located within the inner connecting portion in a pre-tightened initial state. When the inner and outer connecting portions are staggered, the elastic element moves axially without rotation, for example, via a linear connection, until at least three connecting portions of the elastic element pass through corresponding openings in the inner connecting element and lock within these openings. Thus, the elastic element transitions from a pre-tightened state to a relaxed state, while a connection is established between the connecting portions and the inner side of the outer connecting portion. The axial movement of the elastic element can be achieved using elements such as pins, which can be, for example, disposed on the end face of the outer connecting portion and extend in the axial direction.

[0041] Alternatively, provided the elements of the connecting device used have a corresponding design, the inner and outer connecting portions can also be connected to each other by means of rotation. In this variant, the elastic element is disposed in the inner connecting portion in a pre-tightened state, and the outer connecting portion rotates in the circumferential direction in addition to moving in the axial direction, until at least three connecting portions of the elastic element again pass through the corresponding openings of the inner connecting portion. The rotation can continue until, for example, the end portion of the elastic element engages in a corresponding recess on the outer connecting portion, thereby changing the elastic element from the pre-tightened initial state to a relaxed state, in which the connecting portions extend through the corresponding openings of the inner connecting portion and connect with the inside of the outer connecting portion. Attached Figure Description

[0042] In the following description, the invention is exemplarily illustrated with reference to advantageous embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. Exemplarily,

[0043] Figure 1 It is a 3D view of the process connectors and sensor housing. Figure 1 A is a top-down 3D view. Figure 1 B is a sectional view. Figure 1 C is a detailed view, in which some structures are shown in sectional view), and the process connectors and sensor housing have connection devices between them;

[0044] Figure 2 A and Figure 2 B shows Figure 1 Two different embodiments of the elastic element of the connecting device;

[0045] Figure 3 A illustrates the steps for installing the connecting device. Figure 3 A-1 to Figure 3 A-4), the connecting device includes Figure 2 The elastic element in A;

[0046] Figure 3 B illustrates the steps for installing the connecting device. Figure 3 B-1 to Figure 3 B-4), the connecting device includes Figure 2 The elastic element in B;

[0047] Figure 4 A and Figure 4 B shows the installation Figure 2 A and Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the process connector and sensor housing after the elastic element in B. Figure 4 AA showed Figure 4 (part of A);

[0048] Figure 5This demonstrates a function that prevents the process connector from rotating relative to the sensor housing. Figure 5 A-1 and Figure 5 An embodiment of the connection device (B-1) and having rotation restriction ( Figure 5 An embodiment of the connecting device (B-2) and an embodiment of the connecting device without any rotational limitation ( Figure 5 A-2);

[0049] Figure 6 This illustrates the force applied to an elastic element with rotational constraints;

[0050] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the elastic element is shown, as well as its arrangement in a connecting device;

[0051] Figure 8 An embodiment of an elastic element as a die-cast part is shown, as well as the arrangement of the elastic element in a connecting device;

[0052] Figure 9 Other embodiments of the die-cast parts are shown;

[0053] Figure 10 Another embodiment of the elastic element as a die-cast part is shown;

[0054] Figure 11 An embodiment is shown as an elastic element in a sheet metal part; and

[0055] Figure 12 A sensor housing with an integrated flexible element is shown.

[0056] List of reference numerals

[0057] 100 Process connectors;

[0058] 110 Sensor housing;

[0059] 120 Connecting device;

[0060] 122 Inner connect portion;

[0061] 124. External join portion;

[0062] 126. The inner side of the outer connecting portion;

[0063] 128 Complementary components;

[0064] 130 Elastic element;

[0065] 132 Connection part;

[0066] 134 Rotation limiting element;

[0067] 140° central axis;

[0068] 150 O-rings;

[0069] 160. Openings in the internal connection portion;

[0070] 170. The protrusion on the inner side of the outer connecting portion;

[0071] 200-line component;

[0072] 210 Connecting arc;

[0073] The end portion of a 220-wire component;

[0074] 310 Preload;

[0075] 320 axial movement;

[0076] 330 Recess on the inner connecting portion;

[0077] 340 positioning pin;

[0078] 350 mobile pins;

[0079] 370 The recess on the cross-section of the external connection portion;

[0080] 410 Force in the axial direction;

[0081] 510 The edge of the recess in the outer connecting portion;

[0082] 701 First end portion;

[0083] 702 Second terminal portion;

[0084] 710 Positioning pin;

[0085] 720 Milling profile;

[0086] 800 die-cast parts;

[0087] 810 Circular ring;

[0088] 820 arms;

[0089] The gap between the 822 arm and the annular ring;

[0090] 830 A convex portion in the radial direction;

[0091] 840 A protrusion in the axial direction;

[0092] 850 The recess on the cross-section of the external connection portion;

[0093] 860 The edge of the concave portion;

[0094] 920 is the arm aligned clockwise;

[0095] 922 The arm aligned counterclockwise;

[0096] 930 The protrusion on the arm aligned clockwise;

[0097] 932 The protrusion on the arm aligned counterclockwise;

[0098] 940 concave portion on convex portion;

[0099] 942. Part of the inner link;

[0100] 950 Circular sheet metal part;

[0101] 960 The gap in the circumferential direction;

[0102] 970 An outward convex portion in the radial direction;

[0103] 980 An inward convex portion in the radial direction;

[0104] 990 Radial recess on the outer connecting portion. Detailed Implementation

[0105] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view shows the connection between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110. This connection is achieved via a connecting device 120, which... Figure 1 B and Figure 1 It can be schematically observed in a cross-sectional view from the perspective of C.

[0106] The connecting device 120 includes an inner connecting portion 122 disposed on the sensor housing 110, an outer connecting portion 124 disposed on the process connector 100, and an elastic element 130, which is partially disposed within the inner connecting portion 122 and connects the inner connecting portion 122 to the outer connecting portion 124, as described in detail below. The inner connecting portion 122 includes a portion of the sensor housing 110, which is surrounded by the outer connecting portion 124. Conversely, the outer connecting portion 124 includes a portion of the process connector 100, which surrounds the inner connecting portion 122.

[0107] Therefore, the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 overlap in the axial direction in the regions of the inner connection portion 122 and the outer connection portion 124, which is provided by the common central axis 140 of the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110. The central axis 140 is in Figure 1B is shown as a dashed line, and the axial direction is indicated by an arrow in the z-direction. In order to seal the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110, a seal in the form of an O-ring 150 is also provided in the connection device 120 area between the process connector and the sensor housing 110.

[0108] Figure 1 C shows Figure 1 An enlarged perspective view of part B shows the area of ​​the connecting device 120. Identifiable is portion 132 of the elastic element 130 (see also...). Figure 2 The process connector 100 extends through the opening 160 of the inner connecting portion 122 and abuts against the inner side 126 of the outer connecting portion 124. More precisely, a portion 132 of the resilient element 130 extending through the opening 160 abuts against the protrusion 170 of the outer connecting portion 124. Therefore, this portion 132 is referred to as the connecting portion. Through the connecting portion 132, the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 are secured to each other in the axial and radial directions, as further described below. Another portion of the resilient element 130 (marked 134) engages with a recess (marked 128) of the outer connecting portion 124. As further described below, the portion 134 of the resilient element engaged in the recess 128 provides rotational restriction for the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110. Therefore, portion 134 is referred to as the rotational restriction element, and the recess 128 forms a complementary element for rotational restriction.

[0109] Figure 2 Two embodiments of the elastic element 130 are shown in detail. Figure 2 A and Figure 2 In both embodiments shown in B, the elastic element 130 is designed as an annular, curved line element 200 with an open end. Therefore, the open region extends at an angle α between the end portions 210 of the elastic element 130.

[0110] The elastic element 130 also has three connecting portions 132, which are designed as corresponding connecting arcs 220 extending outward from the inner periphery of the wire element or elastic element 130. As described above, and in conjunction with the following... Figures 3 to 7 To further explain, after the elastic element 130 is installed in the connecting device 120, the connecting portion 132 extends through the corresponding opening 160 to the inner connecting portion 122 (see...). Figure 1 and Figure 4 ), to connect with the inner side 126 of the outer connection portion 124.

[0111] Figure 2 A and Figure 2The embodiment of the elastic element 130 of B is distinguished only by the structure of the two end portions 210 of the wire element 200. Figure 2 In embodiment A, the two end portions 210 extend radially outward from the circumference of the elastic element 130. Therefore, in Figure 2 In embodiment A, the two end portions 210 are in the same plane as the other portions of the wire element 200. Figure 2 In embodiment B, the two end portions 210 extend perpendicularly to the other portions of the elastic element, that is, they extend from the plane of the other portions of the elastic element. (As in...) Figure 1 It can be recognized in C. Figure 2 In embodiment B, when the elastic element 130 is installed in the connecting device 120, the end portion 134 is in an axial direction parallel to the central axis 140 (see...). Figure 1 Extending upwards.

[0112] As further explained below, when the process connector 100 is rotatably mounted on the sensor housing 110, the end portion 210 is used either for anti-rotation locking of the process connector 100 on the sensor housing 110, or for rotation restriction together with other components. In both embodiments of the in-line element 200, anti-rotation locking and rotation restriction are achieved in different ways by means of the end portion 210.

[0113] exist Figure 3 The steps for installing the connecting device 120 are schematically shown, specifically the steps for connecting the process connector 100 to the sensor housing 110. Figure 3 The left column of A (with) Figure 3 In the A tag, it was used Figure 2 An embodiment of line element 200 of A, and process connector 100 is connected to sensor housing 110 without rotation via a linear connection. Figure 3 The right column (by Figure 3 In the B-marker, it was used Figure 2 In a second embodiment of the B-line element 200, the connection between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 is established by movement in the axial direction and subsequent rotation.

[0114] First, the wire element 200 is pre-tightened such that, at the end portion 210 (see...) Figure 2 They were squeezed together, as in Figure 3 A-1 is indicated by two arrows 310. Therefore, arrow 310 represents the force that compresses the wire elements 200 together or the force used to preload the elastic element 130. This, in turn, determines the open area between the end portions 210 or the angle α between the end portions 210 (see...). Figure 2The value will decrease. Then, the line element 200 is positioned inside the sensor housing 110.

[0115] exist Figure 3 In embodiment A, the wire element 200 can continue to move in the axial direction after being embedded in the inner connection portion 122. Figure 3 In embodiment B, the wire element 200 is embedded in the inner connection portion 122, such that the wire element 200 abuts against the shoulder or step portion of the inner wall of the sensor housing 110, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown in B-1.

[0116] Then, the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 and the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100 advance towards each other in the axial direction, as... Figure 3 As indicated by arrow 320 in A-1. Figure 3 A-2 and Figure 3 In B-2, this axial movement is illustrated by a top-down perspective view of the interior of the process connector 100, in which the sensor housing 110 is shown only in a transparent view.

[0117] exist Figure 3 In embodiment A, the sensor housing 110 has a recess 330 in the upper region, the size of which corresponds in the circumferential direction to two locating pins 340 on the end face of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100 (see...). Figure 3 The angular distances between A-2) are equal. The locating pin 340 is inserted into the recess 330 to ensure... Figure 3 In embodiment A, the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 can only advance linearly toward each other in the axial direction, i.e., without rotation. Furthermore, if electrical contact is required to measure process parameters of the medium via a sensor located in the sensor housing 110, electrical contact can be easily established between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 (not shown).

[0118] exist Figure 3 In both embodiments A and 3B, the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 advance towards each other in the axial direction until the inner connection portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 abuts against the end face of the outer connection portion 124 of the process connector 100. Figure 3 A-3 and Figure 3 B-3 shows the states of wire element 200, wherein wire element 200 is still in a pre-tensioned state, in which the open area or angle α between the end portions 210 of wire element 200 (see Figure 2 (decreases). In Figure 3 A-3 Figure 3 B-3 and Figure 3 A-4 Figure 3In B-4, only the outermost part of the inner connection portion 122 or the sensor housing 110 is shown, that is, the outermost part from the cut through the opening 160 in the inner connection portion 122.

[0119] exist Figure 3 In the state shown in A-3, the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 moves toward the end face of the process connector 100, causing the wire element 200 to abut against the movable pin 350, which is disposed on the end face of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100. Further axial movement of the process connector 100 causes the movable pin 350 to move the elastic element 130 within the inner connecting portion 122, and the direction of movement of the elastic element 130 is opposite to the direction of movement of the inner connecting portion 122.

[0120] Therefore, the connecting arc 220 of the wire element 200 or the connecting portion 132 of the elastic element 130 respectively reaches the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110. The movement of the connecting portion 132 and the connecting arc 220 into the corresponding opening 160 of the inner connecting portion 122... Figure 3 In A-3, this is indicated by arrow 360. This movement of the connecting arc 220 relaxes the wire element 200, thereby increasing the open area or opening angle α between the end portions 210.

[0121] Figure 3 A-4 illustrates the state where the wire element 200 is relaxed again after the connecting arc 220 is positioned in the corresponding opening 160 of the inner connecting portion 122. In this state, the connecting arc 220 abuts against the inner side or inner wall 126 of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100, respectively. Simultaneously, the two end portions 210 of the wire element 200 abut against the locating pin 340. In this embodiment, the locating pin 340, together with the end portions 210 of the wire element 200, acts to provide rotational restriction on the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110, preventing rotation. In other words, the end portions 210 abut against the locating pin 340, causing the process connector 100 to be locked anti-rotationally onto the sensor housing 110. An embodiment with rotational restriction is described in... Figures 5 to 7 As shown in the embodiments and described below, in this rotation restriction, a rotation angle greater than zero between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 is permitted.

[0122] like Figure 3 As shown in B-3, Figure 3 In embodiment B, the inner connecting portion 122 and the outer connecting portion 124 move relative to each other in the axial direction until the end portion 210 of the wire element 200 is embedded in the recess 370 of the end face of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100. However, in Figure 3In B-3, the elastic element 130 is still under tension because the connecting arc 220 is still against the inner wall of the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 and has not yet extended through the opening 160 of the inner connecting portion 122.

[0123] Subsequently, the process connector 100 revolves around a common central axis 140 (see...) Figure 1 B) Rotate relative to the sensor housing 110. As a result, the connecting arcs 220 respectively reach the corresponding openings 160 of the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110, such as... Figure 3 As shown in B-4, the movement of the connecting arc 220 causes the wire element 200 to relax until the end portion 210 of the wire element 200 abuts against the corresponding edge of the recess 370. This increases the open area or angle α between the end portions 210. Simultaneously, the connecting arc 220 of the wire element 200 contacts the inner side 126 of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100.

[0124] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment shown in B-4, the end portion 210 of the wire element 200 engages with the recess 370, causing the process connector 100 to be locked onto the sensor housing 110 again without rotation. Other embodiments are as follows: Figures 5 to 7 As shown and described below, in these embodiments, the process connector 100 is rotatable relative to the sensor housing 110 at a predefined angle, which has rotational limitations.

[0125] exist Figure 3 A-4 and Figure 3 In the corresponding configuration shown in B-4, the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 and the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100 are fixed to each other in the radial direction because the three connecting portions 132 and the connecting arc 220 of the wire element 200 extend through the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122 and abut against the inner side 126 of the outer connecting portion 124. The cylindrical outer contour of the connecting portion 122 is concentrically aligned with the inner side 126 of the similarly cylindrical outer connecting portion 124.

[0126] Figure 4 A is the state after installation. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the process connector 100 and sensor housing 110 in state A-4, wherein the wire element 200 is in a relaxed state. Similarly, Figure 4 B illustrates a second embodiment of the in-line element 200 (see also...) Figure 2 B) A cross-sectional view of the installed process connector 100 and sensor housing 110. Figure 4 B shows Figure 3 State B-4, wherein the wire element 200 according to the second embodiment is in a relaxed state. For example... Figure 4 A (where, Figure 4 AA showed Figure 4 (A's magnified portion) and Figure 4 As shown in Figure B, the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 and the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100 are in... Figure 3 A-4 and Figure 3 In their installed state, B-4 are still axially fixed to each other, that is, along the common central axis 140 of the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 (see...). Figure 1 B) They are fixed to each other because the corresponding connecting arc 220 of the wire element 200 not only abuts against the inner side or inner wall 126 of the outer connecting portion 124, but also against the protrusion 170 on the inner side of the outer connecting portion 124.

[0127] As in accordance with Figure 4 As can be seen in the detailed view of AA, the wire element 200, in its mounted state, is capable of absorbing all forces in the axial direction, i.e., in both the positive and negative z-directions (see [reference]). Figure 1 All forces on (B) are exerted because the connecting arc 220 of the wire element 200 passes through the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110 on one hand, and abuts against the protrusion 170 on the inner side 126 of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100 on the other. Therefore, after the wire element 200 or the elastic element 130 is installed, the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 are fixed to each other in both the axial and radial directions. Figure 3 A-4 and Figure 3 As best identified in the schematic diagram of B-4, at least three connecting portions or connecting arcs 220 are required for secure fixation in the radial direction, because even with only one or two connecting arcs 220, the inner connecting portion 122 may still be displaced relative to the outer connecting portion 124.

[0128] Figure 5 A-1 and Figure 5 B-1 shows a top-view perspective perspective of the end face of the outer connection portion 124 of the process connector 100, on which the elastic element 130 or the wire element 200 is mounted; that is, according to the... Figure 3 A-4 and Figure 3 The same method applies to B-4. Because the two end portions 210 of the wire element 200 or the elastic element 130 either abut against the locating pin 340 (see...). Figure 5 A-1), or it can be embedded in the recess 370 and abut against the edge of the recess 370 (see A-1). Figure 5 (B-1), so in these embodiments, the rotation of the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110 is locked.

[0129] On the contrary, Figure 5 A-2 illustrates an embodiment in which the locating pin 340 of the process connector 100 and the end portion 210 of the wire element 200 are missing. Therefore, in Figure 5 In the embodiment of A-2, the process connector 100 is rotatable in the circumferential direction relative to the sensor housing 110, without any rotational limitation.

[0130] also, Figure 5 B-2 illustrates one embodiment of the process connector 100, which is consistent with... Figure 5 The B-1 implementation differs from the previous one. Figure 5 In the embodiment of B-2, the recess 370 is significantly enlarged in the circumferential direction, extending at an angle exceeding 270°. Therefore, the rotation of the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110 can exceed an angle of approximately 270° because the end portions 210 of the wire element 200 can move in the circumferential direction. The edges or walls 510 of the recess 370 act as rotational restraints when one of the end portions 210 abuts against one of the edges 510 in the circumferential direction.

[0131] Figure 6 The following illustrates the force applied to the inline element 200 in the following situation: Figure 5 In the embodiment of B-2, the end portion 210 of the wire element 200 is embedded in the recess 370 of the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100, and provides rotation restriction. Figure 6 In the two rotational directions shown on the left and right sides of the figure below, one of the end portions 210 abuts against the edge 510 of the recess 370, thereby preventing further rotation of the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110 in the corresponding rotational direction. Thus, one of the forces F... B The force F acts on the end portion 210 and the entire wire element 200. The wire element 200 is subjected to force F. B When tensioned, and when a large force or torque is present in the corresponding rotational direction, the corresponding end portion 210 can slide inward in the radial direction to the edge of the recess 370. This can be achieved by... Figure 6 The force F that is at play in the diagram below R To illustrate. In extreme cases, the wire element 200 is subjected to force F B and F R The force F is tensioned, causing the end portion 210 to slide out of the recess 370, and the connecting arc 220 to slide out, for example, radially inward from the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110. Therefore, due to the force F B and F R Due to its function, the connection between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 may become loose.

[0132] If it is possible Figure 6 What is potentially advantageous, as identified in the above figure, is that, with rotational restriction via the end portion 134, there is no force F that tensions the elastic element 130. B Instead, there exists a corresponding force F in the opposite direction. A The force F A This causes the elastic element 130 to expand and stabilize in the installation position. Therefore, Figure 7 Another embodiment of the wire element 200 is shown, which illustrates... Figure 2 The embodiment shown combines a first end portion 701 that extends in the radial direction and a second end portion 702 that extends in the axial direction (see [reference]). Figure 7 A). Furthermore, the first end portion of the two end portions 215 extends inward in the radial direction, rather than like... Figure 2 As in embodiment A, it extends outwards.

[0133] The end portion 210 extends radially inward, i.e., it is in the same plane as the adjacent portion of the wire element 200. The end portion 210 provides rotational restriction by abutting against a locating pin 710 in one of the two rotational directions. The locating pin 710 extends axially from the end face of the connecting portion 124, as shown below. Figure 7 As shown in B. When the end portion 210 is in Figure 7 When B is in a rotating position and presses against the locating pin 710, thus limiting its rotation, force F A This, in turn, acts on the elastic element 130, ensuring that the connecting arc 220 is further pressed into the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122.

[0134] In addition, Figure 7 In the rotational position of B, the additional protection in the radial direction is achieved by extending the end portion 210 inward in the radial direction, as follows: Figure 7 As shown in the left figure of C. Alternatively, the end portion 210 may have a curved shape that partially surrounds the locating pin 710, as... Figure 7 The right figure shows C.

[0135] Figure 7 D illustrates a rotational position in which the second end portion 215, extending axially from the wire element 200, acts as a rotational constraint in the opposite rotational direction. In this rotational position, the second end portion 210 abuts against the edge 510 of the recess 370, causing the force F to... AThe force acts on the inline element 200. This force presses the corresponding connecting arc 220 into the corresponding opening 160 of the inner connecting portion 122, rather than pressing the connecting arc 220 out of the corresponding opening 160 of the inner connecting portion 122. Furthermore, the recess 370 on the end face of the outer connecting portion 124 is provided with a milled profile 720, which can be used to some extent as a groove for guiding the end portion 210. This milled profile 720 provides protection for the end portion 210 from radial force F. R And sliding in the radial direction (see) Figure 6 Additional protection.

[0136] Figure 8 A illustrates another embodiment of the elastic element 130, in which the elastic element 130 is designed as a die-cast part 800 made of plastic material. The die-cast part 800 includes a ring 810 continuously encircling in the circumferential direction, from which arms 820 first extend axially and then circumferentially. A gap 822 is formed between the circumferentially extending portions of each arm 820 and the annular ring 810. A connecting portion 132 extends from each arm 820, which is in the form of a radially outward protrusion 830. Thus, the radial protrusion 830 corresponds to Figure 2 The connecting arc 220 of the wire element 220, that is, Figure 2 The connecting arc 220 of the line element 220 has the same function as the connecting part 132.

[0137] The die-cast part 800, as an elastic element 130, is mounted to... Figure 3 The process is carried out in a similar manner to that shown in B, that is, the elastic element 130 or the die-cast part 800 is embedded in the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110, that is, embedded in the inner side of the inner connecting portion 122, and then the outer connecting portion 124 of the process connector 100 is moved and rotated axially relative to the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110.

[0138] Because the radial protrusion 830 is elastically connected to the annular ring 810 of the die-cast part 800 via the arm 820, the die-cast part 800 can be embedded in the inner connecting portion 122. Therefore, the die-cast part 800 can be pre-tightened within the inner connecting portion 122 in such a way that the connecting portion 830 moves elastically radially inward until the connecting portion 830 is located within the outer periphery of the annular ring 810 and can be embedded in the inner connecting portion 122.

[0139] Then, by axially moving and rotating the die-cast part 800, the radial protrusions 830 respectively reach into the corresponding openings 160 in the inner connecting portion 122 of the sensor housing 110, that is, by connecting with the... Figure 3 B-3 and Figure 3 The connection arc 220 shown in B-4 is similar in manner. Then, the radial protrusion 830 extends through the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122, such that the radial protrusion 830 connects to the inner side or inner wall 126 of the outer connecting portion 124, as shown. Figure 8 As shown in B. In Figure 8 In B, the axial direction is also shown as the z-axis, in which the die-cast part 800 moves together with the inner connecting part 122.

[0140] In the axial direction, after the die-cast part 800 is installed, the connecting part 830 also abuts against the protrusion 170 of the outer connecting part 124, as in Figure 4 As shown in the connecting arc 220, the process connector 100 is thus secured to the sensor housing 110 again in the axial direction.

[0141] Furthermore, the die-cast part 800 has a protrusion 840 at the lower edge of the annular ring 810, which extends axially from the annular ring 810. After the die-cast part 800 is installed, the protrusion 840 engages with the recess 850, and the recess 850 in... Figure 8 As shown in C, it is formed on the end face of the outer connecting portion 124. The recess 850 is defined in the circumferential direction by an edge 860, which forms a stop for the protrusion 840 of the die-cast part 800 in the corresponding rotational direction. Therefore, the protrusion 840 of the die-cast part 800 and the edge 860 of the recess 850 of the outer connecting portion 124 together form a rotation limiting element 134 for the rotation of the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 100.

[0142] When the elastic element 130 is implemented as a die-cast part 800, it is also shown that only when the force F A exist Figure 8 The rotation restriction can only function as a safety feature when the convex portion 830 acts radially in the direction shown in A. Therefore, in Figure 8 In embodiment A, there is a safe rotational constraint only in one rotational direction. Therefore, in Figure 9 In the embodiment of the die-cast part 800 shown in A, the two connecting portions 930, 932 are aligned with each other in opposite directions in the circumferential direction.

[0143] This means that the connecting parts 930 and 932 are respectively mounted on the corresponding arms 920 and 922, which extend in opposite directions in the circumferential direction. Specifically, in Figure 9 In section A, when the die-cast part 800 is viewed from above, the arm 920 of the connecting portion 930 extends clockwise in the circumferential direction. Conversely, the arms 922 corresponding to the two other connecting portions 932 extend counterclockwise in the circumferential direction. Therefore, in Figure 9In embodiment A, regardless of the rotation direction of the process connector 110 relative to the sensor housing 100, when the process connector 100 rotates, the force F A It is always applied to the die-cast part 800 in a direction that is conducive to rotational restriction.

[0144] To provide additional protection in the radial direction, in another embodiment, the connecting portion 930 of the die-cast part 800 also has an additional recess 940 that extends in the circumferential direction and... Figure 9 As shown in B. After the die-cast part 800, which serves as the elastic element 130, is installed in the connecting device 120, when the inner connecting portion 122 is rotated to its final position, the recess 940 and the corresponding portion 942 of the corresponding inner connecting portion 122 (see Figure B) Figure 9 C) Engagement. This prevents the corresponding connecting portion 830 from sliding out of the corresponding opening 160 in the radial direction.

[0145] Figure 10 Another embodiment of the die-cast part 800 is shown, in which four radial protrusions 830 are provided. In this embodiment, two of these radial protrusions 830 are aligned opposite to each other in the circumferential direction. This means that two of the arms 920 extend clockwise in the circumferential direction, and the other two arms 922 extend counterclockwise. Due to the added fourth protrusion 830 or connecting portion 132, in this embodiment, the connection between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 is additionally secured in the axial direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, regardless of the rotation direction, the two radial protrusions 830 are subjected to a force F in a direction that ensures safe rotational limitation. A (See) Figure 6 and Figure 8 The role of ).

[0146] Figure 11 Another embodiment of the elastic element 130 is shown, in which the elastic element 130 is designed as a ring-shaped sheet metal part 950. Figure 11 A shows an annular sheet metal part 950 installed before the connecting device 120. Figure 11 B and Figure 11 C shows a cross-sectional view from a stereoscopic perspective at different viewing angles, illustrating the annular sheet metal part 950 after being installed to the connecting device 120. In the axial direction, the annular sheet metal part 950 is disposed between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110 to establish a connection between the process connector 100 and the sensor housing 110.

[0147] The annular sheet metal part 950 has protrusions 970 and 980 extending in the radial direction. The radial protrusion 970 extends outward and thus serves as a corresponding connecting portion 132, while the radial protrusion 980 extends inward and serves as a rotation limiting element 134.

[0148] In the circumferential direction, the annular sheet metal part 950 has a gap 960, thereby enabling the sheet metal part to... Figure 2 The wire element 200 shown is pre-tightened in the circumferential direction in a similar manner and can be embedded into the inner connecting portion 122. Then, the annular sheet metal part 950 is aligned with... Figure 3 It is installed to the connecting device 120 in a manner similar to that shown in B and described above.

[0149] After axial movement and rotation of the inner connecting portion 122, the radial protrusion 970 of the sheet metal part 950 extends outward through the corresponding opening 160 in the inner connecting portion 122, such as Figure 11 As shown in B. This achieves radial and axial locking of the process connector 100 on the sensor housing 110, as described above. Figure 4 As described.

[0150] exist Figure 11 In the sectional view of C from a stereoscopic perspective, relative to Figure 11 View B shows the process connector 100, sensor housing 110, and sheet metal part 950 rotated approximately 45° to the right to demonstrate the rotational constraint utilized by the radial protrusion 980. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In C, the process connector 100 is shown in a transparent manner.

[0151] After the sheet metal part 950, which serves as the elastic element 130, is mounted to the connecting device 120, the radial protrusion 980 engages with the corresponding radial recess 990 on the outer surface of the outer connecting portion 124. In the transparent view of the process connector 100, the radial recess 990 is shown only in fine lines. By engaging with the corresponding radial recess 990, the radial protrusion 980 forms a rotation limiting element 134 for the rotation of the process connector 100 relative to the sensor housing 110. Therefore, the radial recess 990 forms a complementary element 128 for rotation limiting.

[0152] Alternatively or additionally, the annular sheet metal part 950 for rotational restraint may also have one or more protrusions (not shown) extending in the axial direction and engaging with one or more corresponding axial recesses on the end face of the outer connecting portion 124. These axial recesses are capable of engaging with... Figure 5 B-1 and Figure 5 B-2 and Figure 8 The recesses 370 and 850 shown in C are formed in a similar manner.

[0153] Alternatively, the annular sheet metal part 950 may have only a radially outwardly extending protrusion 980, without a radially inwardly extending or axially extending protrusion 970. In such an embodiment, the connecting element 120 therefore does not have rotational limitations.

[0154] Figure 12 Another embodiment is shown in which the elastic element 130 is integrated into the sensor housing 110. Figure 12 The various elements of the elastic element 130 and Figure 8 Corresponding to these components of the die-cast part 800, each component of the elastic element 130 includes an annular ring 810, an elastic arm 820, a radial protrusion 830 serving as a connecting portion 132, and an axial protrusion 840 serving as a rotation limiting element 134. Since the functions of these components 810 to 840 are the same as those of the corresponding components of the die-cast part 800, the functions of these components will not be described again here.

[0155] Since the elastic element 130 is integrated into the sensor housing 110 Figure 12 The illustrated embodiment includes fewer components than the embodiment described above. However, in Figure 12 In some embodiments, the choice of material for manufacturing the elastic element 130 cannot be independent of the choice of material for the sensor housing 110.

Claims

1. A connecting device (120) for connecting a process connector (100) to a sensor housing (110), the connecting device (120) comprising: An inner connection portion (122) is disposed on the sensor housing (110) or the process connector (100); An outer connection portion (124) surrounds the inner connection portion (122). Wherein, when the inner connection portion (122) is disposed on the sensor housing (110), the outer connection portion (124) is disposed on the process connector (100), or when the inner connection portion (122) is disposed on the process connector (100), the outer connection portion (124) is disposed on the sensor housing (110); and An elastic element (130) is partially disposed within the inner connecting portion (122). The elastic element (130) includes at least three connecting portions (132), each of which extends through a corresponding opening (160) in the inner connecting portion (122) and is connected to the inside (126) of the outer connecting portion (124).

2. The connecting device (120) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic element (130) includes at least one rotation limiting element (134) which is capable of engaging with at least one complementary element (128) disposed on the outer connecting portion (124) to limit the outer connecting portion (124) to rotate relative to the inner connecting portion (122) in the circumferential direction of the inner connecting portion (122) at the angle.

3. The connecting device (120) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic element (130) is designed as a ring-shaped, curved wire element (200) with an open end. The corresponding connecting portion (132) is designed as a corresponding connecting arc (220), which extends outward from the circumference of the line element (200), and The rotation limiting element (134) includes at least one of the two end portions (210) of the line element (200).

4. The connecting device (120) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The complementary element (128) disposed on the outer connection portion (124) includes at least one pin (340, 710) which is capable of engaging one of the two end portions (210, 701).

5. The connecting device (120) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The complementary element (128) disposed on the outer connecting portion (124) includes a recess (370), at least one of the two end portions (210, 702) being capable of engaging the recess (370).

6. The connecting device (120) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic element (130) is designed as a plastic part (800), and the connecting portions (132, 830) extend radially outward from the circumference of the plastic part (800), and The rotation limiting element (134) is designed as a protrusion (840) that extends in the axial direction of the plastic part (800) and is capable of engaging with a recess (850) on the outer connecting element (124), the recess (850) forming the complementary element (128).

7. The connecting device (120) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The plastic part (800) is a die-cast part.

8. The connecting device (120) according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least one of the connecting portions (132, 830) is aligned with each other in the opposite direction to the other connecting portion (132, 830) in the circumferential direction.

9. The connecting device (120) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The elastic element (130) includes at least four connecting portions (132, 830) that extend radially outward from the circumference of the plastic part (800).

10. The connecting device (120) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The two connecting portions (132, 830) are arranged in pairs and opposite to each other in the circumferential direction.

11. The connecting device (120) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The elastic element (130) is integrated into the sensor housing (110) or the process connector (100).

12. The connecting device (120) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic element (130) is designed as a ring-shaped sheet metal part (950), which has a gap (960) in the circumferential direction, and The connecting portions (132, 970) extend radially outward.

13. The connecting device (120) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The annular sheet metal part (950) includes at least one rotation limiting element (980) capable of engaging with at least one complementary element (128) disposed on the outer connecting portion (124) to limit the outer connecting portion (124) to rotate relative to the inner connecting portion (122) in the circumferential direction of the inner connecting portion (122) by said angle, and The rotation limiting element (980) extends radially inward or in the axial direction.

14. A method for connecting a process connector (100) to a sensor housing (110), in, The sensor housing (110) includes an inner connecting portion (122), and the process connector (100) includes an outer connecting portion (124), or wherein, The sensor housing (110) includes the external connecting portion (124), and the process connector (100) includes the internal connecting portion (122). The method includes: An elastic element (130) is disposed within the inner connecting portion (122), the elastic element (130) comprising at least three connecting portions (132). The inner connection portion (122) is disposed within the outer connection portion (124); The inner connecting portion (122) and the outer connecting portion (124) are moved relative to each other in the axial and / or circumferential directions of the inner connecting portion (122) and the outer connecting portion (124) to move the elastic element (130), thereby causing at least three of the connecting portions (132) of the elastic element (130) to extend through corresponding openings (160) in the inner connecting portion (122) and connect to the inside (126) of the outer connecting portion (124).

Images