Plug connector for hose connection and / or pipe connection with mounting lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug connector (1) for a hose connection and / or a pipe connection, comprising a coupling piece (4) having a receiving opening (10) into which a plug piece (S) can be inserted in an insertion direction (SR) along a plug axis (X-X) with a plug handle (S1), and a retaining clip (5) which is configured in a U shape in terms of basic shape and has four clip arms (51, 52, 53, 54) which can be pre-mounted at the coupling piece (4) by radial insertion in a mounting direction (MR). It is proposed that the retaining clip (5) is a bent stamped part of metal, or an injection-molded part, or a molded part made of a high-performance plastic or an organic sheet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a plug connector for hose and / or pipe connections, comprising a coupling member and a retaining clip: the coupling member has a receiving opening into which a plug member can be inserted in the insertion direction along the plug axis with the plug shank portion; the retaining clip is radially slotted and at least regionally spring-resilient, the retaining clip having four clamping arms, the retaining clip being pre-installed at the coupling member by radial insertion in the installation direction, wherein the retaining clip occupies an insertion position for the plug member in the pre-installed position, in which the plug member can be inserted into the receiving opening, and wherein, after the plug member is inserted, the retaining clip occupies a retaining position for the inserted plug member in the installation position, in which the plug member is prevented from being pulled out of the receiving opening by means of the retaining clip in a form-fitting manner, and wherein the retaining clip is U-shaped in basic shape, the legs of the U-shape forming two pairs of clamping arms respectively diametrically opposed to each other, the two pairs of clamping arms being arranged successively in the axial direction, separated from each other by slots, and having spring-resilient in the radial direction. Background Technology

[0002] This type of plug connector is known from DE 10 2019 111 199 A1. In this known plug connector, additionally provided are front bevels on the side of the first pair of locking arms facing the insertion direction of the plug, the locking arms being located on the side of the retaining clip facing the insertion direction of the plug, the front bevels diverging in the opposite direction to the insertion direction of the plug for interaction with the plug. Regarding the flexibility of the plug system, and to provide a plug connector that can be manufactured with low overhead while possessing high functionality and simple installation and disassembly, the front bevels are arranged on the radially inward (pointing towards the plug axis) teeth of the first pair of locking arms, and positioned below the plug axis when viewed from the insertion direction of the retaining clip, wherein the teeth are spaced apart from each other such that, upon insertion of the plug, the front bevels are expanded by a sealing section of the plug located in front of the flange of the plug in the insertion direction. The retaining clip, like the coupling element, is preferably made of a technical plastic, especially fiber-reinforced plastic. Whether in the pre-installed or installed position, keep all legs of the clamp inserted into the coupling.

[0003] The type of plug connector mentioned at the beginning is also known from DE 10 2022 104 970 A1. The described technical solution therein relates to a plug connector for connecting a first fluid conduit to a mating plug connector, having a base with a through channel configured to provide fluid connection at the end of a sleeve section. Unlike DE 10 2019111 199 A1, a clamping cage is arranged in the receiving channel of the sleeve section, which can be inserted into the receiving channel of the sleeve section in the installation direction and held axially in a form-fit manner relative to the installation direction. Two retaining arms of the retaining clip, extending parallel to each other, extend into the opening of the clamping cage in the stationary state and are configured to elastically expand radially relative to the opening to a stress state. The retaining clip is configured to move between an insertion position and a blocking position, wherein the retaining arms are expandable to a stress state in the insertion position of the retaining clip and are prevented from expanding to a stress state in the blocking position of the retaining clip. The retaining clamp has two radially elastic support arms relative to the opening, which secure the clamping cage in a form-fit manner within the receiving channel and extend into the opening in a static state, and are configured to radially elastically expand to a stress state. Compared to DE 10 2019 111 199 A1, the implementation of the clamping cage represents the use of additional components and additional installation steps.

[0004] The type of plug connector described at the beginning (without an additional clamping cage) is further known from WO 2017 / 067950 A1, in which the technical solution described therein provides a plug connector in which the pre-installation process of the retaining clip and the installation and removal process of the plug are improved compared to the prior art. In particular, loss of the retaining clip can also be prevented. The axially arranged pairs of clamping arms perform different functions. The first pair of locking arms performs the primary function by preventing the plug from being pulled out in a form-fitting manner in the retaining position, while the second pair of locking arms performs the secondary function by retaining the retaining clip in the coupling member in both the pre-installation and installation positions to prevent loss. In this known plug connector, the pre-installation and installation positions of the retaining clip particularly coincide, that is, the retaining clip is oriented coaxially with respect to the axis of the coupling member in both the pre-installation and installation positions.

[0005] As mentioned at the beginning, the plug can be, for example, a male plug constructed according to the SAE J 2044 standard, which is also described in detail in WO 2017 / 067950 A1. Such plugs are constructed as hollow cylinders. The plug has an insertion section with a surrounding flange arranged on its outer periphery. This flange divides the insertion section into a sealing section and a locking section, wherein the sealing section is arranged axially, i.e., on the longitudinal axis of the plug in the insertion direction, in front of the locking section. In the installed state, the retaining clamp is positioned behind the flange constructed in the SAE plug profile. After the plug is inserted, a sealing cap is typically located on the sealing section.

[0006] Although the design of the retaining clip according to the aforementioned literature is partly complex due to the various details that require precise execution, the plug-in system has been successfully applied in automobile manufacturing, particularly in fuel systems and heated and unheated SCR systems. SCR here stands for "Selective Catalytic Reduction," referring to a technology used to reduce nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases.

[0007] DE 20 2019 002 026 U1 discloses a receiving nozzle for a connector that allows for the introduction of a mating nozzle with reduced force. This nozzle, like DE 10 2019 111 199 A1, also lacks a clamping cage but has a retaining ring introduced into the body on the side of the nozzle's connecting end, and is particularly used to retain an O-ring within the body. The ring is retained in the body by a cross-clamp with a U-shaped construction and a bent end; this cross-clamp can be metallic, and particularly formed of wire, and is introduced into recesses in the ring and the body. Such clips, also used in other applications and often referred to as standard clips, differ from the aforementioned retaining clips by having only a pair of opposing U-shaped legs. There is no retaining clip as in the mating connector of DE 10 2019 111 199 A1.

[0008] These fluid-fit connectors, and similar fluid-fit connectors, including the standard clips mentioned above, according to EP 3 736 481 A1, are referred to as VDA-compliant coupling systems because they can preferably be implemented according to the geometric requirements and dimensional standards of the Automobile Manufacturers Association (VDA), or are generally implemented in this way. Due to the binding standard requirements, the components of this coupling system can be advantageously and universally combined.

[0009] EP 3 904 746 A1 describes a quick connector characterized by comprising a sleeve member and a sliding lock configured as a clamp, wherein the sleeve member has a body defining a receiving hole for receiving a fluid conduit, the fluid conduit being axially insertable or having an annular groove. The sliding lock extends laterally relative to the axial direction within an internal recess of the body of the sleeve member and is configured such that, during the introduction of the fluid conduit into the sleeve assembly via mechanical interaction with the end of the fluid conduit, the sliding lock is radially elastically deformable in a direction outward of the sleeve member, wherein the sliding lock tends to spontaneously move laterally toward the inward of the sleeve assembly in response to the radial elastic deformation. The sleeve member also has a stop assembly configured to stop the automatic movement of the sliding lock during the introduction of the fluid conduit and to release the stopping function of the sliding lock when the fluid conduit is fully pushed into the body of the sleeve member. The sliding lock also includes at least one locking hook that mates with a locking nose disposed in the body of the sleeve component, wherein the locking hook moves on the locking nose and eventually surrounds the locking nose when the fluid conduit is fully pushed into the body of the sleeve component.

[0010] US 2017 / 0146173 A1 also describes a known mating connector, similar in type to the one mentioned at the beginning, with a clamping cage, but which can also be designed as a single piece with a coupling element having a receiving opening. This mating connector, as described in EP 3 904 746 A1 and US 2021 / 301961 A1 described below, is advantageously characterized by spontaneous connection establishment (also known as “AutoLatch”), which, among other things, also mentions an important feature highly relevant to this type of mating connection.

[0011] This involves displaying the mating status. For example, a U-shaped clip, in addition to the retaining clip, can be provided as an indicator of the assembly status. When the plug is inserted into the bushing according to the specifications, the clip first protrudes from the mating connector, that is, the clip is in a raised, high position, allowing the operator to perform a first visual and / or tactile inspection to determine whether the mating connection has been assembled according to the specifications. Subsequently, a second operator performs a second inspection, determining that the clip is in the protruding position, and then manually pushes the clip into the mating connection so that the clip is no longer in the protruding position, but in the lower position. This two-stage inspection can monitor the proper installation of the coupling components, thereby limiting installation errors on the installation line, but this method also requires two operators.

[0012] US 2021 / 301961 A1 describes a pipe connection device including a bushing member into which a plug member can be inserted, the plug member having an annular groove. The bushing member has two lateral slots. The device also includes a U-shaped, preferably metallic, clamp consisting of a head and two legs that extend across the bushing member. Each leg extends into a lateral slot of the bushing member and terminates with a bent foot. Similar to US 2017 / 146173 A1, this clamp is also used herein as a connection indicator. Thus, the clamp can occupy a pulled-up position when no connection is present and a pressed-in position when locking is present. Occupying an intermediate position at a height between the two positions is also possible. The device further includes a ring with two lateral openings facing the lateral slots of the bushing member, and includes two lateral guide systems that engage with the feet of the clamp to hold the clamp in the raised or pressed-in position. Each guiding system includes a notch, a plate defining the lower edge of the notch, and a nose disposed on a flexible sheet supported by a ring. The annular groove is laterally slotted to allow the clamp to switch between a pressed-in position and a raised position. This guiding system represents an additional mechanism that makes the structure of the pipe connection device comparatively more complex. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The objective of this invention is to provide a plug connector of the type described at the beginning, which can be manufactured at low cost while offering high functionality and simple installation, particularly self-locking after insertion of the plug. Furthermore, the plug connector should be able to simply, clearly, and reliably indicate the plugging status and be compatible with the geometric requirements and dimensional standards of the Vehicle Manufacturers Association (VDA), preferably also being able to be implemented using parts standardized according to VDA.

[0014] The above-described task is solved according to the invention by the feature portion of claim 1.

[0015] Therefore, the retaining clip is configured as a bent stamped metal part, an injection molded part, or a molded part made of high-performance plastic or organic sheet. Here, according to the invention, low wear resistance, high strength, and toughness are combined with the required expandability of the clamping arm, the retaining force, and the optimal range of elastic moduli required for the elastic action of the retaining clip. In addition to ensuring stable and safe operation using the plug connector according to the invention, this also ensures breakage-free installation, disassembly, and the possibility of long-term reinstallation. Compared to the retaining clips described in the prior art at the beginning, the retaining clip can have an optimally compact, space-saving shape because it eliminates the need for the obvious bevels, teeth, and / or guide pins described therein.

[0016] When the terms "technical plastics" and "high-performance plastics" are used in this application, these terms primarily refer to the conventional classification of plastics within the professional field based on their continuous operating temperature. Therefore, a distinction is made between general-purpose or standard plastics with a continuous operating temperature up to 90°C, technical plastics with a continuous operating temperature up to 140°C, and high-performance plastics with a continuous operating temperature exceeding 140°C. High-performance plastics also typically possess high mechanical strength.

[0017] The continuous operating temperature can be determined in different ways. One method, according to UL 746 B, refers to a temperature at which the polymer material retains half of its tensile strength, impact tensile strength, or electrical breakdown strength after 60,000 or 100,000 hours. A similar method is IEC 216 (International Electrotechnical Commission), corresponding to DIN VDE 0304. This method determines a temperature at which the mechanical and electrical properties remain only half of their original values ​​after 20,000 hours.

[0018] Based on these criteria, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), and polystyrene (PS) are specifically classified as general-purpose plastics.

[0019] Technical plastics include polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polycarbonate (PC), and polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0020] High-performance plastics include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polysulfone (PSU), polyaryletherketone (PAEK), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), and polyphthalamide (PPA), as well as various copolymers, which collectively contain the smallest repeating chain structural units of the aforementioned compounds. Due to the complexity and high cost of manufacturing these high-quality polymers, their applications are typically limited to specific, specialized situations.

[0021] However, when necessary, polyamide composites, especially glass fiber-filled polyamides (PA) with higher strength and thermal stability compared to other polyamides with technical plastic properties, are also suitable as materials for retaining clips. In this regard, according to this application, such materials are also classified under the term "high-performance plastics".

[0022] Organic sheets are special fiber composite materials, particularly fiber-matrix semi-finished products. Organic sheets consist of fiber fabrics or fiber layups embedded in a thermoplastic matrix. Compared to traditional thermosetting fiber composites, the thermoplastic matrix offers advantages in terms of the thermoforming capability of the semi-finished product and the resulting shorter processing time. Commonly used fiber materials are glass, aramid, and carbon. In fabrics and layups, fibers can also extend at right angles to each other, allowing the mechanical properties of organic sheets (such as stiffness, strength, and thermal elongation) to be defined even better than their metallic counterparts. Unlike metallic sheets, tensile and compressive properties, as well as other mechanical and thermal properties, are not isotropic.

[0023] Alternatively, according to the present invention, the task on which the present invention is based is solved by the feature portion of claim 7.

[0024] Therefore, the clamping arms of the retaining clamp are accommodated in at least regionally slotted grooves constructed in the coupling member in both the pre-installation position and the installation position, the grooves extending circumferentially outward of the coupling member, wherein in the pre-installation position: - The first pair of clamping arms, which are farthest from the plug to be introduced, are not radially expanded at all or only slightly, and are correspondingly under only small or no radial stress, wherein the clamping arms together with the ribs at the coupling will keep them clamped at the coupling. - The second pair of clamping arms facing the plug to be introduced are not radially expanded at all or only slightly, and are correspondingly not under radial mechanical stress, wherein the free ends of the clamping arms are guided at the coupling or in the coupling. And in the installation location: - The first pair of clamping arms are fully or only slightly radially expanded as in the pre-installed position, and are correspondingly under only small or no radial stress, wherein the free ends of the first pair of clamping arms are located in the groove of the coupling and supported on the plug. - The second pair of clamping arms are engaged into the plug in a form-fit manner, thereby fixing the plug in the coupling member, wherein the free ends of the second pair of clamping arms are located on the outer periphery of the coupling member and supported on the outer periphery. In the pre-installation position, the central axis of the clamp is eccentrically arranged relative to the transverse axis, especially relative to the central axis of the coupling member, and in the installation position, the transverse axis of the clamp is concentrically arranged relative to the central axis of the coupling member.

[0025] The present invention's construction of the retaining clip is highly advantageous in terms of manufacturing and installation techniques, as the retaining clip is constructed symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis through which it extends. Specifically, the corresponding legs of the U-shape of the first pair of clamping arms are respectively constructed linearly at their ends and each has a concave (outwardly arched) arcuate section in the middle when viewed from the longitudinal axis, while the corresponding legs of the U-shape of the second pair of clamping arms are constructed substantially linearly along their entire length. This means that the width of the corresponding legs can be variable. The retaining clip used according to the invention can replace the so-called VDA standard clip and be used with couplings corresponding to the geometric requirements and dimensional standards of the German Association of the Automotive Industry. Advantageously, unlike the VDA standard clip, the retaining clip used according to the invention ensures a clear indication of the insertion state.

[0026] As with existing technologies, according to the present invention, the clamping arms arranged sequentially in the axial direction perform different functions; however, the manner in which these functions are performed differs in detail from existing technologies. During insertion, the pair of clamping arms facing the plug performs the primary function of establishing the connection and ensuring the mating connection in the installation position, i.e., radially locking the plug in the coupling member by means of a retaining clip; while the pair of clamping arms away from the plug during insertion controls the automatic pull-in of the retaining clip as the plug is introduced into the coupling member. A clamping cage, as in existing technologies, is not required here.

[0027] Furthermore, the first pair of clamping arms, positioned away from the plug during insertion, serve to secure the retaining clip at the coupling in the pre-installed position, thus advantageously representing a stable delivery or supply status for the structural unit. Within the coupling, particularly in the base of the coupling, a sealing package may be arranged, but at least an elastomeric O-ring seal may be arranged, which is held in the receiving opening by a bushing ring.

[0028] Because the retaining clip's central axis is eccentrically positioned relative to the coupler's central axis in the pre-installation position, the retaining clip protrudes radially relative to the coupler, thus indicating in a simple way that the installation position has not yet been reached.

[0029] The pair of clamping arms facing the plug during insertion can also advantageously and simply serve to indicate the insertion status. For this purpose, it is preferably provided that, in the installed position, when the clamping arms of the second pair of clamping arms engage with the plug in a form-fitting manner, a mark, particularly a printed barcode or QR code / DMC, is released from at least one clamping arm of the second pair of clamping arms on the outer periphery of the coupling, wherein this mark is at least partially covered by the clamping arms of the second pair of clamping arms in the pre-installed position. For this coverage, for example, a bent end member located at the free end of at least one clamping arm can be used. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Other advantageous designs of the invention can be derived from the following description of the drawings and dependent claims.

[0031] The attached diagram shows: Figure 1 A perspective three-dimensional part drawing of a preferred embodiment of the plug connector according to the present invention is shown, including a plug component. Figures 2a to 2d With front view ( Figure 2a ),along Figure 2a Longitudinal section view of line AA in the middle ( Figure 2b ),along Figure 2a Cross section of line BB in the middle ( Figure 2c ) and along Figure 2a Cross section of line CC in the middle ( Figure 2d (This shows the pre-installation location) Figure 1 The first embodiment of the plug connector according to the present invention is shown. Figures 3a to 3d With front view ( Figure 3a ),along Figure 3a Longitudinal section view of line DD in the middle ( Figure 3b ),along Figure 3a Cross section of line EE in the middle ( Figure 3c ) and along Figure 3a Cross-sectional view of line FF in the middle ( Figure 3d The image shows the first intermediate position during installation. Figure 1 The first embodiment of the plug connector according to the present invention is shown. Figures 4a to 4d With front view ( Figure 4a ),along Figure 4a Longitudinal section view of line HH in the middle ( Figure 4b ),along Figure 4a Cross-sectional view of line GG in the middle ( Figure 4c ) and along Figure 4a Cross section view of line II in the middle ( Figure 4d The image shows the second intermediate position during installation. Figure 1 The first embodiment of the plug connector according to the present invention is shown. Figures 5a to 5d With front view ( Figure 5a ),along Figure 5a Longitudinal section view of line MM in the middle ( Figure 5b ),along Figure 5a Cross-sectional view of line NN in the middle ( Figure 5c ) and along Figure 5a Cross-sectional view of line OO in the middle ( Figure 5d The image shows the installation location. Figure 1 The first embodiment of the plug connector according to the present invention is shown. Figures 6a to 6d With front view ( Figure 6a ), side view ( Figure 6b Top view () Figure 6c ) and three-dimensional perspective ( Figure 6d ) shows Figure 1 The retaining clip shown is an embodiment of the plug connector according to the present invention.

[0032] In different figures of the accompanying drawings, the same parts are always given the same reference numerals, and therefore are usually described only once in the following text. For clarity, not all parts and their reference numerals are labeled in all figures of the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0033] In the following description, it is stated that the invention is not limited to the embodiments, and is not limited to all or more features of the described feature combinations, but rather each individual sub-feature of the embodiment is independent of all other sub-features described therewith, and is meaningful to the subject matter of the invention.

[0034] Figure 1 Partial drawing of an advantageous embodiment of the plug connector 1 according to the invention is shown, which is used to connect a plug S constructed as a pipe fitting. This plug S is also shown in an arrangement coaxial with the longitudinal axis XX of the plug connector 1 according to the invention. Figure 1 middle.

[0035] The plug S is constructed as a hollow cylinder and has an insertion section (plug shank S1). A surrounding, tapered section S2, expanding in the opposite direction of insertion, is arranged on the outer periphery of this insertion section. This tapered section has a diameter D2 that is larger than the rest of the insertion section (reference diameter D1). The tapered section S2 divides the insertion section S1 into a sealing section S3 and a locking section S4, wherein the sealing section S3 is arranged axially (longitudinal axis XX) in the insertion direction SR in front of the locking section S4. A circumferential groove N is provided in the locking section S4. The sealing section S3 has a smaller diameter, i.e., the reference diameter D1 of the insertion section S1 is smaller than the diameter D4 of the locking section S4. After the plug S is inserted, a sealing package associated with the plug connector 1, or an O-ring seal 2 as shown, is located on the sealing section S3. A bushing ring 3, also associated with the plug connector 1, is used to retain the sealing package or O-ring seal. For clarity, the various sections of the plug S, namely the insertion section S1, including the sealing section S3, the tapered section S2, and the locking section S4, are only... Figure 1 The winning bidder is indicated by the attached diagram.

[0036] The plug connector 1 also includes a coupling element 4 and a spring-resilient retaining clip 5, which is at least partially spring-resilient.

[0037] The coupling element 4 has a base 6, particularly constructed as a tube assembly, which acts as a receptacle for the retaining clip 5. The base 6 can advantageously be manufactured in a simple embodiment as an injection-molded part made of plastic, wherein the coupling element 4 can be made of technical plastics, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene (POM), or polyamide (PA), especially glass fiber-filled polyamide. For higher temperature loads, polyphthalamide (PPA) is also particularly considered suitable.

[0038] The coupling element 4 can be connected to a fluid conduit (not shown) on one side. For this purpose, a connection section 7 is constructed on the base 6, which is exemplarily shown in an embodiment for use with a flared end. The medium to be connected can be constructed, in particular, as a hose or conduit.

[0039] On the side opposite to the connection section 7 for the media conduit, the coupling member 4 has a receiving opening for inserting the plug member S. This receiving opening is located in... Figure 2b , Figure 3b , Figure 4b and 5b It is marked with reference numeral 10 in the attached figure.

[0040] Holder 5 (part drawing in) Figures 6a to 6d (As shown in the diagram) It can be pre-installed at coupling member 4, and after being pushed radially in along the installation direction MR, it occupies the position of Figures 2a to 2d The pre-installation position shown represents the insertion position for the plug S. The pre-installation position of the retaining clip 5 is only maintained when the plug S is fully inserted into the coupling member 4 and reaches the desired position. Figures 5a to 5d It can only be completely canceled when the installation location shown in the diagram is displayed.

[0041] In the installation position, the retaining clip 5 occupies a retaining position for the inserted plug S after the plug S is introduced, in which the plug S is prevented from being pulled out in the receiving opening 10 by means of the retaining clip 5 in a form-fitting manner.

[0042] The retaining clip 5 has two pairs of 51 / 52, 53 / 54, namely four spring-resilient clamping arms 51, 52, 53, 54, each having a free end 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a. In each pair of clamping arms 51 / 52, 53 / 54, the clamping arms 51, 52, 53, 54 are separated from each other by radial slots 50. The clamping arms 51, 52, 53, 54 form the spring-resilient region of the retaining clip 5, and are particularly spring-resilient in the radial direction. Here, "slot 50" is understood to form a U-shaped interior, surround the insertion axis XX, and lie between the clamping arms 51 and 52, and 53 and 54.

[0043] Regarding the radial insertion of the retaining clip 5 in the pre-installation direction MR, it should be noted that this should only be regarded as pushing the retaining clip 5 onto the coupling member 4. In fact, unlike the prior art, the free ends 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a of the clamping arms 51, 52, 53, and 54 will never fully extend into the base 6 of the retaining clip 5 at any time.

[0044] The retainer 5 is constructed in a U-shape in terms of its basic shape. The legs of the U-shape form two pairs of clamping arms 51 / 52, 53 / 54 that are diametrically opposed to each other. These two pairs of clamping arms are arranged successively in the axial direction XX, and are also separated from each other in this direction by slots (axial slots 55).

[0045] The clamping arms 51, 52, 53, and 54 of the retaining clamp 5 are respectively accommodated in the pre-installation position and the installation position in the coupling member 4 in at least regionally slotted grooves N1 and N2, which extend circumferentially outward from the coupling member 4.

[0046] In the pre-installation location (see Figures 2a to 2d In the first pair of clamping arms 51 / 52, the arms 51 and 52 furthest from the plug S to be introduced are under small or no radial mechanical stress. This mechanical stress is generated by the radial expansion of the clamping arms 51 and 52 during pre-installation and the subsequent springback, wherein the free ends 51a and 52a of the clamping arms 51 and 52 are located on the outside of the coupling member 4, thereby keeping the clamp 5 fixed at the coupling member 4. After the expansion for fitting the retaining clamp 5 onto the coupling member 4, the geometry (depth, slot length) of the clamping arms 51 and 52 corresponding to the groove N1 accommodating the clamping arms in the pre-installation position no longer expands radially or only slightly. This is advantageous because it prevents relaxation and creep processes.

[0047] The second pair of clamping arms 53 / 54, facing the plug S to be inserted, do not expand radially and are not under radial stress, wherein the free ends 53a, 54a of these clamping arms are freely located in the groove N2 on the outer periphery U of the coupling member 4. Due to the position of the first pair of clamping arms 51 / 52 and due to the guidance of all clamping arms 51, 52, 53, 54 in the grooves N1, N2 constructed in the coupling member 4, the retaining clip 5 is sufficiently secured to the coupling member 4 to prevent loss. Advantageously, bent end members 56a, 56b are provided at the free ends 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a of at least one clamping arm 51, 52, 53, 54. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the figures, bent end members 56a, 56b in the axial direction XX are provided at the clamping arms 51, 52 of the first pair of 51 / 52 away from the plug S. Figures 6a to 6dAs shown, the bent end members 56a and 56b can also be constructed as planar. The free ends 51a and 52a at the clamping arms 51 and 52 of the clamping arm pair 51 / 52 can preferably be constructed as nose-shaped for locking into the coupling member 4. The free ends 53a and 54a of the other pair of clamping arms 53 / 54 extend in a straight line.

[0048] In the installation location (see) Figures 5a to 5d The first pair of clamping arms 51, 52 are under less radial stress than in the pre-installed position, wherein the free ends 51a, 52a of the first pair of clamping arms are located on and supported on the outer periphery U of the coupling member 4. The free ends may even be completely stress-free at this location. During installation, the clamping arms 51, 52 are lifted relative to the coupling member 4 by the introduced plug S, particularly through interaction with the tapered section S2, and then spring back radially inward. The latter is specifically shown in... Figure 5c The S / 4 connector is functional here.

[0049] The second pair of 53 / 54 clamping arms, 53 and 54, are here fitted into the plug S, particularly into the slot N of the plug S, in a form-fitting manner, especially without stress, thereby fixing the plug S in the coupling member 4, wherein the free ends 53a and 54a of the second pair of 53 / 54 clamping arms remain on the outer periphery U of the coupling member 4 and are supported there. This is especially true in Figure 5d As shown in the image.

[0050] In the pre-installation position, the transverse axis ZZ of clamp 5, especially its central axis, is eccentrically arranged relative to the central axis XX of coupling member 4, and in the installation position, the transverse axis ZZ of clamp 5 is concentrically arranged relative to the central axis XX of coupling member 4. Because the transverse axis ZZ of clamp 5 is eccentrically arranged relative to the central axis XX of coupling member 4 in the pre-installation position, clamp 5 circumferentially protrudes significantly radially relative to the outer periphery U of coupling member 4, thus illustrating in a simple but clear and explicit manner that the installation position has not yet been reached, in which the transverse axis ZZ of clamp 5 (see in particular) is... Figure 5c and Figure 6b The retaining clip 5 is aligned with the central axis XX of the coupling member 4, and the retaining clip 5 no longer protrudes little or no relative to the periphery U of the coupling member 4, i.e., it protrudes almost without any protrusion, indicating that a locked installation state has been achieved. Advantageously, this eliminates the need for manual pressing of the retaining clip 5 and double operator inspection as described in the prior art.

[0051] Figures 3a to 3d as well as Figures 4a to 4d Pre-installation location is shown ( Figures 2a to 2d ) and installation location ( Figures 5a to 5d The various stages of the installation process between ( ).

[0052] Especially from the sectional view Figure 2b , 3b As can be clearly seen in the sequence of 4b, 5b, how the plug S enters the coupling 4 deeper and deeper. This can be achieved, for example, by manual insertion or, advantageously, automatically if necessary. Under the action of the insertion force, the tapered section S2 of the plug S gradually expands the clamping arms 51 / 52 until, through this expansion, the increased diameter D2 of the tapered section S2 relative to the reference diameter D1 lifts the first pair 51 / 52 at least slightly relative to the periphery U of the coupling 4, wherein simultaneously or slightly later, the plug S reaches a position relative to the second pair 53 / 54 in which the clamping arms 53, 54 can slide radially into the groove N of the locking section S4 for locking. That is, the previously established radial stress is eliminated again by the free ends 51a, 52a of the clamping arms 51, 52 expanded by the tapered section S2 of the plug S, by sliding along the radius of the tapered section S2 of the plug S such that the retaining clamp 5 is pulled radially in. In particular, the nose-shaped ends 51a and 52a of the first pair of 51 / 52 clamping arms ensure the pull-in movement of the clamp 5. As a result, the rear sections 53b and 54b of the clamping arms 53 and 54 of the second pair of 53 / 54, which are widened relative to the free ends 53a and 54a, are controlled to enter the slot N of the plug S.

[0053] All these movements of the clamping arms 51, 52, 53, and 54 are advantageously spontaneous, i.e., only under the action of the plug S being inserted, which can also be called the "AutoLatch" function.

[0054] Furthermore, the locked installation state can also be advantageously demonstrated by the following manner: in the installed position, when the clamping arms 53, 54 of the second pair of 53 / 54 clamping arms are engaged in a form-fitting manner into the plug S, at least one clamping arm 51, 52 of the first pair of 51 / 52 clamping arms releases the mark M on the outer periphery U of the coupling member 4 (see [reference]). Figure 5a This marking can be, in particular, a printed barcode or QR code / DMC, wherein, in a manner not shown here, the marking M is in a pre-installed position ( Figure 2a ) and before installation is complete ( Figure 3a and Figure 4a It is at least partially covered by at least one of the first pair of 51 / 52 clamping arms, preferably by the sheet portions 56a and 56b. This allows for digital inspection.

[0055] Such as especially Figures 2a to 6dAs shown in the part drawing, the retaining clip 5 is constructed symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis YY through which it extends. As previously described, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis XX of the plug connector 1, the retaining clip 5 is constructed in a U-shape in terms of its basic shape, with the legs of the U-shape forming pairs 51 / 52, 53 / 54 of clamping arms 51, 52, 53, 54 that are diametrically opposed to each other. The clamping arms 51, 52, 53, 54 in particular form the spring-elastic region of the retaining clip 5. The legs of the U-shape are separated radially by slot 50 and axially by slot 55, respectively.

[0056] The U-shaped legs of the second pair of 53 / 54 clamping arms are constructed substantially, at least on the outer side, in a straight line along their entire length, while the U-shaped legs of the first pair of 51 / 52 clamping arms each have a segment K in the middle that is constructed as a concave arc relative to the longitudinal axis YY. Figure 6a This is explained very clearly. Retaining teeth 57 may also be provided at this location, which protrude radially inward to a lesser extent than the nose portion in the free end regions 51a and 52a of the clamping arms 51 and 52.

[0057] The straight extension of the U-shaped legs of the second pair of 53 / 54 clamping arms does not preclude the following situation: the widened sections 53b and 54b of legs 53 and 54 on the sides away from the free ends 53a and 54a are wider than those at the free ends 53a and 54a, respectively, to improve stability and safe installation, especially... Figure 2d , Figure 3d , Figure 4d and Figure 5d As shown.

[0058] The technical significance of section K of the concave arc-shaped structure of the first pair of 51 / 52 clamping arms can be exemplarily referred to in [reference needed]. Figure 5c As can be seen, when the concave arc-shaped section K transitions to the installation position, it is advantageously preferably in a form-fitting manner, especially in the section S2 that tapers in the opposite direction of the insertion direction SR (including the teeth 57 preferably provided therein), it can abut against the outer periphery of the installed plug S, so that for the first pair of clamping arms 51 / 52, the aforementioned preferred mechanical stress-free state of the clamping arms 51 and 52 can be achieved in the installation position.

[0059] Here, the retaining tooth 57 serves to hold the device in the pre-installed position. For this purpose, the retaining tooth 57 is supported on the corresponding rib 61 at the base 6 of the coupling member 4 until the clamping arms 51, 52 of the retaining clip 5 are sufficiently expanded by the tapered section S2 of the plug member S. Then, by disengaging the retaining tooth 57 from the rib 61, the radial pull-in movement of the retaining clip 5 is released. Therefore, the main function of the retaining tooth 57 is to prevent the retaining clip 5 from being accidentally pressed in when the plug S is not yet positioned in the receiving opening 10 of the coupling member 4 or has not been pushed in deeply enough (see...). Figure 2c ).

[0060] The transverse axis ZZ or the central axis passes essentially through the center point of the concave arc-shaped structure of the clamping arms 51 and 52 that are opposite each other. The relative arrangement of the transverse axis or central axis with respect to the longitudinal axis XX of the coupling member 4 can define the eccentric or concentric position of the retaining clamp 5 with respect to the coupling member 4.

[0061] Keep the design of clip 5 itself (especially according to) Figures 6a to 6d It is also considered to have inventive significance.

[0062] This invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described, but also includes all embodiments that have the same function in the sense of this invention. It is also explicitly emphasized that the embodiments are not limited to combinations of all their features; rather, each individual sub-feature can be inventive in itself, independent of all other sub-features.

[0063] Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the combination of features defined in claims 1, 7, and 14, but can also be defined by any other combination of specific features from all the individual features disclosed in total. This means that, in principle, each individual feature of the independent claim can be omitted, or replaced with at least one individual feature disclosed elsewhere in the application.

[0064] List of reference numerals 1. Plug connector 2.1 sealing element 3 1 bushing ring 4.1 coupling components 5 1 retaining clip Radial slots between 50, 51, and 52, and between 53 and 54. 51.5 clamping arm 51a 51's free end 52.5 clamping arm 52a 52's free end 53 5 clamping arm 53a 53 free end 53b 53 is a wider section compared to 53a. 54 5 clamping arm 54a 54 free end 54b is a wider section of 54 compared to 54a. Axial slots between 55, 51, and 53, and between 52 and 54. Axial bending area at 56a and 51a Axial bending areas at 56b and 52a Retaining teeth at positions 57, 51, and 52 6 4 base 61. 6 locations are used for the ribs of 57. 7 4 connection section 10 4 for the receiving opening of S D1 S1 reference diameter The diameter of D2 S2 The concave contours of K 51 and 52 Marking on the U of M 4 MR 5 installation direction at point 4 slots in N S4 The first slot in N1 4 The second slot in N2 4 S-type plug S1 S insertion segment S2 S conical section S3 S Sealed Section S4 S Locking Section SR S insertion direction in 1 U 4 periphery The vertical axis of XX 1 The vertical axis of YY 5 The horizontal axis of ZZ 5

Claims

1. A plug connector (1) for hose connection and / or pipe connection, comprising a coupling element (4) and a retaining clip (5). The coupling element has a receiving opening (10), wherein, The plug (S) can be inserted along the insertion axis (XX) in the insertion direction (SR) with the insertion section (S1). The retaining clip is radially slotted (50) and at least regionally spring-resilient. The retaining clip has four clamping arms (51, 52, 53, 54). The retaining clip is pre-installed at the coupling member (4) by radial insertion in the installation direction (MR), and the retaining clip (5) occupies an insertion position for the plug member (S) in the pre-installed position, in which the plug member (S) can be introduced into the receiving opening (10) via the retaining clip (5). After the plug member (S) is introduced, the retaining clip (5) occupies an insertion position for the plug member (S) in the installation position. In the retaining position of the inserted plug (S), in which the plug (S) is prevented from being pulled out in the receiving opening (10) by means of the retaining clip (5), wherein the retaining clip (5) is constructed in a U-shape in terms of basic shape, the legs of the U-shape forming a first pair (51 / 52) and a second pair (53 / 54) of clamping arms (51, 52, 53, 54) that are diametrically opposed to each other, the first pair and the second pair being arranged successively in the axial direction (XX), being separated from each other by slots (55), and having spring elasticity in the radial direction. Its features are, The retaining clip (5) is a bent stamped metal part, an injection molded part, or a molded part made of high-performance plastic or organic board.

2. The plug connector (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The retaining clip (5) is constructed symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis (YY) extending through the retaining clip.

3. The plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The U-shaped legs of the second pair (53 / 54) clamp arms are constructed in a substantially straight line along the entire length of the legs.

4. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The legs of the first pair of clamping arms (51 / 52) are respectively nose-shaped on the end sides, and each has a segment (K) in the middle that is concave arc-shaped relative to the longitudinal axis (YY).

5. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, At the legs of the first pair (51 / 52) clamping arms, particularly in the section (K) with a concave arc shape, radially inwardly pointing retaining teeth (57) are arranged respectively. The retaining teeth are associated with corresponding ribs (61) at the base (6) of the coupling member (4). The retaining teeth (57) abut against the ribs in the pre-installation position, thereby preventing the retaining clip (5) from being radially inserted into the coupling member (4) when the plug (S) is not present in the coupling member (4). When the legs of the first pair (51 / 52) clamping arms are radially expanded through the plug (S), the retaining teeth (57) release the retaining clip (5) from radially pulling into the coupling member (4).

6. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, At the free end (51a, 52a, 53a, 54a) of at least one clamping arm (51, 52, 53, 54), preferably at a pair of clamping arms (51, 52), an axially bent end member (56a, 56b) is provided.

7. The plug connector (1) according to the preamble of claim 1 or according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The clamping arms (51, 52, 53, 54) of the retaining clip (5) are respectively accommodated in slots (N1, N2) in the pre-installation position and in the installation position. These slots are at least regionally slotted and constructed within the coupling member (4). The slots extend circumferentially on the outer side of the coupling member (4). In the pre-installation position, - The first pair (51 / 52) clamping arms or the clamping arms (51, 52) of the first pair of clamping arms away from the plug (S) to be introduced are completely or only slightly radially widened, and are correspondingly only under small or no radial mechanical stress, wherein the clamping arms (51, 52), together with the ribs (61) at the coupling member (4), secure the retaining clip (5) at the coupling member (4), and - The second pair (53 / 54) clamping arms or the clamping arms (53, 54) of the second pair of clamping arms facing the plug (S) to be introduced are not radially expanded at all or only slightly, and are correspondingly not under radial mechanical stress, wherein the free ends (53a, 54a) of the clamping arms (53, 54) are guided at or in the coupling (4); And in the aforementioned installation location, The first pair (51 / 52) of clamping arms (51, 52) are not radially expanded at all or only slightly as in the pre-installed position, and are accordingly only under small or no radial stress, wherein the free ends (51a, 52a) of the first pair (51 / 52) of clamping arms are located in the groove (N1) of the coupling (4) and supported on the plug; The second pair (53 / 54) of clamping arms (53, 54) are engaged in a form-fitting manner into the groove (N) of the plug (S), thereby fixing the plug (S) in the coupling member (4); In the pre-installation position, the transverse axis (ZZ) of the retaining clip (5) is eccentrically arranged relative to the central axis (XX) of the coupling member (4), and in the installation position, the transverse axis (ZZ) of the retaining clip (5) is substantially concentrically arranged relative to the central axis (XX) of the coupling member (4).

8. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, In the pre-installation position, the markings (M), especially the printed barcodes or QR codes / DMCs on the outer periphery (U) of the coupling (4) are at least partially covered by at least one clamping arm (51, 52, 53, 54), especially by the first pair (51 / 52) clamping arms, and are released in the installation position.

9. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The coupling element (4) has a base (6) constructed as a tube assembly, especially a single piece, which is performed as an injection-molded part made of plastic.

10. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The plug (S) is constructed as a hollow cylinder and has an insertion section (S1) comprising a surrounding section (S2) that tapers in the opposite direction of the insertion direction (SR), the section dividing the insertion section (S1) into a sealing section (S3) and a locking section (S4), wherein the sealing section (S3) is arranged axially, i.e., on the longitudinal axis (XX) of the plug (S) in the insertion direction (SR) in front of the locking section (S4).

11. The plug connector (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, In the installation position, the retaining clip (5), especially the second pair (53 / 54) of the retaining clip, engages in the groove (N) in the locking section (S4) behind the section (S2) that tapers in the opposite direction of the insertion direction, with a section (53b, 54b) that is preferably widened relative to the free ends (53a, 54a).

12. The plug connector (1) according to claims 6 and 11, characterized in that, In the installation position, the first pair (51 / 52) clamping arms surround the tapered section (S2) of the plug (S) with concave arc-shaped sections (K) respectively.

13. The plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, especially the plug connector according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, In the installation position, a sealing package or at least one O-ring seal (2) and a bushing ring (3) for retaining the sealing package or the at least one O-ring seal (2) are arranged on the plug (S), especially on the sealing section (S3) of the plug.

14. A retaining clip (5) for a mating connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The feature having the feature portion of claim 1 combined with the feature portion of one or more of claims 2 to 6.

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