Locking clip for a plug connector and method for manufacturing a locking clip

Abstract

This invention relates to a locking clip (1) for a plug connector (2) for locking a pipe fitting (3) insertable into the plug connector (2). The locking clip (1) has a substantially U-shaped profile including a first leg (4) and a second leg (5) spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis (Q). The legs (4, 5) are connected to a connecting bow (6) including a apex (7) centered between the two legs (4, 5) when viewed along the transverse axis (Q). The apex defines the locking clip (1) along a vertical axis (H) perpendicular to the transverse axis (Q). The locking clip (1) includes a weakening region that elastically deforms when the pipe fitting (3) is inserted into the plug connector (2). The weakening region includes a first weakening segment (8) and a second weakening segment (9). The first weakening segment is disposed between the apex (7) and the first leg (4), and the second weakening segment is disposed between the apex segment (7) and the second leg (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a locking clip for a plug connector, the locking clip being used to lock a fitting, particularly a standardized VDA fitting, insertable into the plug connector. The locking clip has a substantially U-shaped profile including a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis. Each leg connects to a connecting bow, the connecting bow including a apex centered between the two legs when viewed along the transverse axis and defining the locking clip along a vertical axis perpendicular to the transverse axis. The locking clip includes at least one defined weakening region configured to elastically deform when the fitting is inserted into the plug connector. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the locking clip and a plug connector. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, a plug connector of this type is used to detachably connect a flow-guiding component or fluid line, such as a hose or pipe, to a fitting, particularly a standardized VDA fitting. If the fluid line is a hose, the plug connector may have a suitable hose fitting at one end, for example. At the opposite end, the plug connector includes a receiving space for accommodating an end section of the fitting.

[0003] Furthermore, a locking clip is provided on the plug connector, which allows the tube fitting to be held in a form-locking manner on the plug connector after insertion. For this purpose, a suitable gap, preferably a circumferential groove, is provided on the tube fitting, into which the locking clip engages. Contact areas are provided on the legs of the locking clip. When the tube fitting is inserted, the force acting on these contact areas is applied to the first contact area, causing the locking clip to elastically deform and thus engage. To achieve the simplest possible assembly, it is desirable that the insertion force required to insert the tube fitting be as small as possible.

[0004] To achieve this, for example, FR2994719A3 provides a weakened region on the locking clamp, centrally located between the two legs. This weakened region has a reduced cross-section relative to the remaining area of ​​the locking clamp. However, a disadvantage here is that the central location of the material weakening section results in relatively high bending stress, which in turn leads to relatively rapid material fatigue and thus a relatively short service life. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a locking clip that, on the one hand, requires the smallest possible insertion force for the pipe fitting, and on the other hand, has the longest possible service life. A further object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing such a locking clip.

[0006] The task described above is solved by the locking clip mentioned at the beginning of the document, wherein the at least one weakened region includes at least one first weakened segment and at least one second weakened segment, the first weakened segment being disposed between the apex and the first leg, and the second weakened segment being disposed between the apex segment and the second leg. This allows the legs to be pressed apart with a smaller force, reducing the insertion force required for pipe fittings, particularly VDA pipe fittings. By providing each leg with its own weakened segment, the bending stress in the weakened region can be reduced compared to known prior art. This reduces the risk of breakage and extends service life.

[0007] Preferably, the locking clip is made of spring steel wire with a substantially circular cross-section, the weakened sections each having a curved cross-section different from the circular cross-section, and / or each weakened section comprises two opposing, flat, and parallel outer surfaces. Thus, the locking clip can be manufactured simply and at low cost.

[0008] Preferably, the first leg has a first contact area. When the pipe fitting is inserted, the force acting on the first leg is applied to the second contact area, causing the locking clamp to elastically deform in the region of the first weakened section. The second leg has a second contact area. When the pipe fitting is inserted, the force acting on the second leg causes the locking clamp to elastically deform in the region of the second weakened section. Each weakened section has a curved cross-section, and the curved cross-section, relative to a reference axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the locking clamp, has a smaller axial area moment of inertia than the remaining section of the locking clamp between the first and second contact areas. This ensures that deformation actually occurs in the region of the weakened section.

[0009] Advantageously, the length of the first weakening section is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, particularly preferably at least 50% of the length of the section of the connecting bow between the apex and the end of the first leg connected to the connecting bow, and / or the length of the second weakening section is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, particularly preferably at least 50% of the length of the section of the connecting bow between the apex and the end of the second leg connected to the connecting bow. This ensures that there is a sufficiently large length for deformation.

[0010] Preferably, each of the legs has a straight central section relative to its longitudinal extension dimension, the straight central section including one or more contact areas where force is applied to the respective leg when the pipe fitting is inserted. Alternatively or additionally, the weakening section may be straight. Thus, a locking clip with a simple structure is provided, which can be manufactured simply and inexpensively.

[0011] Advantageously, the central axis of the straight first weakening section and the central axis of the straight central section of the first leg form a first interior angle of 60° to 120° with each other, and the central axis of the straight second weakening section and the central axis of the straight central section of the second leg form a second interior angle of 60° to 120° with each other. Preferably, the first and second interior angles are of the same size. A smaller interior angle ensures a higher preload of the locking clamp.

[0012] Preferably, the central axis of the straight weakening section and the central axis of the straight central section lie in a plane formed by the vertical axis and the horizontal axis. Thus, the locking clip structure is simple to construct and therefore can be easily and cost-effectively manufactured.

[0013] Furthermore, it may be advantageous that the at least one first weakening segment comprises a single weakening segment, and / or the at least one second weakening segment comprises a single weakening segment. Thus, the locking clip structure is simple to construct and therefore can be easily and cost-effectively manufactured due to the need for fewer machining steps.

[0014] Preferably, the at least one first weakening segment is centrally located between the vertex and the end of the first leg connected to the connecting bow, and / or the at least one second weakening segment is centrally located between the vertex and the end of the second leg connected to the connecting bow. Alternatively, the at least one first weakening segment may be closer to the vertex than the end of the first leg connected to the connecting bow, or vice versa, and / or the at least one second weakening segment may be closer to the vertex than the end of the second leg connected to the connecting bow, or vice versa. Therefore, the position of the turning point can be determined substantially variably, causing the bending leg to bend about that turning point.

[0015] The first leg may include a first retaining section with a free end on the side opposite to the vertex in the direction of the vertical axis, and / or the second leg may include a second retaining section with a free end on the side opposite to the vertex in the direction of the vertical axis. This allows the locking clip to be held on the sleeve of the plug connector. Preferably, the first retaining section and / or the second retaining section includes a straight section whose central axis intersects a plane formed by the vertical axis and the transverse axis; particularly preferably, the straight section includes a free end and the central axis is perpendicular to the plane. This provides a preferred embodiment that offers good retention on the sleeve.

[0016] Preferably, the locking clip is used in a plug connector for connecting a fluid line to a fitting, the fitting being insertable into a receiving space of the plug connector, and the plug connector includes a locking clip for locking the fitting onto the plug connector, the locking clip being constructed according to the invention.

[0017] Preferably, the plug connector includes a sleeve that at least forms part of the receiving space. A gap is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve, and the locking clip is received in the gap. The sleeve includes a first opening and a second opening that is diametrically opposed to each other. The first opening and the second opening respectively connect the gap and the receiving space. A first leg of the locking clip extends through the first opening into the receiving space, and a second leg of the locking clip extends through the second opening into the receiving space.

[0018] Preferably, a first retaining protrusion and a second retaining protrusion spaced apart from the first retaining protrusion along the circumferential direction are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve. The first retaining section of the first leg of the locking clamp is engaged with the first retaining protrusion, and the second retaining section of the second leg of the locking clamp is engaged with the second retaining protrusion.

[0019] The task is also solved using the method described at the beginning of the document by performing the following steps: providing or manufacturing a substantially U-shaped profile made of spring steel wire, the U-shaped profile including a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis and connected by a connecting bow, the connecting bow including a vertex centered between the two legs when viewed along the transverse axis and defining the connecting bow along a vertical axis, creating a defined weakening region configured for elastic deformation when the fitting is inserted into the plug connector, the weakening region including at least one first weakening segment and at least one second weakening segment, the first weakening segment being located between the vertex and the first leg, and the second weakening segment being located between the vertex segment and the second leg. Thus, the aforementioned advantages are obtained.

[0020] Advantageous embodiments of the method are given in the dependent claims, and further advantages have been described. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To better understand this invention, the following detailed explanation is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] In the greatly simplified diagrams:

[0023] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a plug connector having a locking clip according to the invention is shown.

[0024] Figure 2 The front view of the locking clip is shown.

[0025] Figure 3 A top view of the locking clip is shown.

[0026] Figure 4 The image shows a bottom view of the locking clamp.

[0027] Figure 5 A first side view of the locking clip is shown.

[0028] Figure 6 A second side view of the locking clip is shown.

[0029] Figure 7 A perspective view of the locking clip is shown.

[0030] Figure 8 Showing according to Figure 2 The sectional view of the section line AA in the diagram, and

[0031] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0032] First, it should be noted that in different described embodiments, the same components are given the same reference numerals or the same component names, and the disclosure contained throughout the specification can be applied semantically to the same components having the same reference numerals or the same component names. The location descriptions selected in the specification, such as upper, lower, lateral, etc., also refer to the directly described and illustrated figures, and these location descriptions are applied semantically to the new location when the location changes.

[0033] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a plug connector 2 with a locking clip 1 is shown in an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The plug connector 2 is configured to connect a fluid line 17 to a fitting 3. The fitting 3 is preferably a standardized VDA fitting. The fitting 3 preferably includes a first cylindrical section 26 having a first outer diameter D1 and a second cylindrical section 27 having a second outer diameter D2, wherein the first outer diameter D1 is larger than the second outer diameter D2.

[0034] The first column section 26 and the second column section 27 are connected via an operating section 28 that preferably tapers towards the second column section 27. At least one locking gap 29 is provided on the first column section 26. The locking gap 29 may include a circumferential groove that extends completely around the periphery. However, alternatively, the locking gap 29 may also have, for example, two circumferential grooves that are diametrically opposed, each extending only on a portion of its periphery.

[0035] The plug connector 2 of the illustrated embodiment has a sleeve 19 that at least forms part of the receiving space 18. A fitting 3 can be inserted into the receiving space 18. A connection section 25 is provided at the end of the sleeve 19 opposite to the receiving space 18, by which a fluid line 17 can be connected to the plug connector 2. In the illustrated example, the fluid line 17 is only exemplary constructed as a flexible hose, and the connection section 25 is correspondingly constructed as a hose connection section. Of course, other structural designs for the connection section 25 are also conceivable. The connection section 25 may, for example, include known external pressure connections, internal pressure connections, cut-ring connections, etc.

[0036] The sleeve 19 can be constructed as a single piece. However, the sleeve 19 can also be multi-part and, for example, may include an inner sleeve 30 that forms at least part of the receiving space 18 and an outer sleeve 31 that surrounds the inner sleeve 30. The connecting section 25 may be part of the inner sleeve 30. However, the connecting section 25 is preferably provided on a separate connecting member that is fixedly or detachably connected to the sleeve 19, particularly the inner sleeve 30, in a suitable manner. Thus, the plug connector 2 is advantageously modularly constructed so that connecting members with suitable connecting sections 25 can be combined with the sleeve 19 according to the type of fluid line 17.

[0037] The inner sleeve 30 and the outer sleeve 31 can be made of different materials. The inner sleeve 30 can be made of, for example, metal and the outer sleeve 31 can be made of a suitable plastic.

[0038] A gap 20 is provided in the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve 19 (here, the outer sleeve 31), in which the locking clip 1 is received or can be received. The gap 20 preferably includes one or more circumferential grooves, such as in... Figure 1 As can be seen in the diagram, sleeve 19 also includes a first opening 21 and a second opening 22 that are diametrically opposed, the first opening and the second opening respectively connecting the gap 20 and the receiving space 18. In the illustrated embodiment, openings 21, 22 extend radially not only through the inner sleeve 30 but also through the outer sleeve 31.

[0039] The plug connector 2 also includes a locking clip 1 for locking the tube connector 3 onto the plug connector 2. The locking clip 1 is configured to be received in the locking recess 29 of the tube connector 3 so as to lock the tube connector 3 onto the plug connector 2 when the tube connector 3 is fully inserted into the receiving space 18. The locking clip 1 can be fitted onto the plug connector 2 in a radial direction relative to the central axis S of the plug connector 2, such as by... Figure 1 The arrow in the image indicates this.

[0040] The locking clip 1 has a generally U-shaped profile, which includes a first leg 4 and a second leg 5 spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis Q. The legs 4 and 5 are connected to a connecting bow 6, which includes a apex 7. The apex 7 is centered between the two legs 4 and 5 when viewed along the transverse axis Q and defines the locking clip 1 along a vertical axis H perpendicular to the transverse axis Q.

[0041] The first leg 4 includes a first contact area 12. When the pipe connector 3 is inserted, a force F acting on the first leg 4 acts on the first contact area, causing the locking clip 1 to elastically deform. Similarly, the second leg 5 includes a second contact area 13. When the pipe connector 3 is inserted, a force F acting on the second leg 5 acts on the second contact area, causing the locking clip 1 to elastically deform. With the locking clip 1 mounted on the sleeve 19, the first contact area 12 of the first leg 4 is located in the receiving space 18. Similarly, the second contact area 13 of the second leg 5 is located in the receiving space 18.

[0042] When the fitting 3 is inserted into the receiving space 18, force F is transmitted to the contact areas 12 and 13 via the operating section 28. Through the elastic deformation of the legs 4 and 5, the legs can be pushed radially outward through the openings 21 and 22 from the receiving space 18 during insertion of the fitting 3. Once the locking gap 29 is located in the area of ​​the legs 4 and 5 during continued insertion of the fitting 3, the legs 4 and 5 are unloaded and can be engaged in the locking gap 29.

[0043] The first leg 4 of the locking clamp 1 may include a first retaining section 15 with a free end on the side opposite to the vertex 7 along the vertical axis H. Similarly, the second leg 5 may include a second retaining section 16 with a free end on the side opposite to the vertex 7 along the vertical axis H. The retaining sections 15 and 16 preferably each include a straight section whose central axis M intersects the plane E formed by the vertical axis H and the transverse axis Q. The straight section preferably includes a free end, and the central axis M is preferably perpendicular to the plane E.

[0044] A first retaining protrusion 23 and a second retaining protrusion 24 spaced apart from the first retaining protrusion in the circumferential direction are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve 19 (here, the outer sleeve 31). The locking clip 1 can be disposed on the sleeve 19 such that the first retaining section 15 of the first leg 4 of the locking clip 1 is engaged with the first retaining protrusion 23 and the second retaining section 16 of the second leg 5 is engaged with the second retaining protrusion 24. Thus, the locking clip 1 is fixed to the sleeve 19 in the radial direction.

[0045] The following uses Figures 2 to 8 A detailed explanation of locking clip 1. Here, locking clip 1 is... Figure 2 The image is shown in a front view perpendicular to plane E. Figure 3 The top view is shown in the middle. Figure 4 The image is shown from below. Figure 5 The first side view shows the middle. Figure 6 Shown in the second side view and in Figure 7 The image is shown in perspective. Figure 8 Showing according to Figure 2 The sectional view of the section line AA in the figure.

[0046] The locking clip 1 has at least one defined weakening region configured to elastically deform when the fitting 3 is inserted into the receiving space 18 of the plug connector 2. According to the invention, the weakening region includes at least one first weakening segment 8 and at least one second weakening segment 9, the first weakening segment being disposed between the apex 7 on the connecting bow 6 and the first leg 4, and the second weakening segment being disposed between the apex segment 7 on the connecting bow 6 and the second leg 5. Thus, each leg 4, 5 has its own weakening segment, thereby reducing the bending stress in the weakening region compared to known prior art.

[0047] In the example shown, the locking clip 1 is made of spring steel wire with a substantially circular cross-section. In this case, the weakening sections 8 and 9 have a curved cross-section 10 that differs from the circular cross-section. In the example shown, the weakening sections 8 and 9 each have two opposing, flat, and parallel outer surfaces 11, particularly... Figure 8 As can be seen in the middle. The outer surface 11 is connected by a convex surface. Thus, a generally elliptical curved cross section 10 is obtained.

[0048] However, the weakening sections 8 and 9 can also have other shapes. However, what is important for the invention is that the bending cross sections each have a bending cross section 10, which has a smaller axial area moment of inertia relative to the reference axis B parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the locking clip 1 than the remaining section of the locking clip 1 between the first contact area 12 and the second contact area 13. This ensures that the locking clip is actually bent in the areas of the bending cross sections 8 and 9 and not in other locations. However, the remaining section between the first contact area 12 and the free end of the first leg 4, or between the second contact area 13 and the free end of the second leg 5, can also, in principle, have a smaller axial area moment of inertia than the bending cross section 10, because no bending stress occurs there.

[0049] The bending cross section 10 is advantageously constructed such that, although the bending stiffness about the reference axis B is reduced, the bending stiffness about the axis of the bending cross section 10 parallel to the vertical axis H is the same as or even slightly larger than the bending stiffness of the circular cross section of the spring wire.

[0050] The length X of the first weakening section 8 can be, for example, at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of the length of the section between the apex 7 of the connecting bow 6 and the end of the first leg 4 connected to the connecting bow 6. Alternatively or additionally, the length Y of the second weakening section 9 can be similarly at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, and particularly preferably at least 50% of the length of the section between the apex 7 of the connecting bow 6 and the end of the second leg 5 connected to the connecting bow 6. The length X of the first weakening section 8 is preferably the same as the length Y of the second weakening section 9. However, the lengths X and Y can, in principle, be different.

[0051] In the example shown, outriggers 4 and 5 each have a straight central segment 14 relative to their longitudinal extension dimension, the straight central segment including contact areas 12 and 13. The weakening segments 8 and 9 are also constructed straight. The central axis M of the straight first weakening segment 8 and the central axis of the straight central segment 14 of the first outrigger 4 form a first interior angle α with each other at an obtuse angle, and the central axis M of the straight second weakening segment 9 and the central axis of the straight central segment 14 of the second outrigger 5 also form a second interior angle β with each other at an obtuse angle, as shown in... Figure 2 As can be seen in the image. Furthermore, the central axis M of the straight weakening sections 8 and 9 and the central axis M of the straight central section 14 lie in the plane E formed by the vertical axis H and the transverse axis Q, as shown in... Figures 3 to 6 As can be seen in the middle.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the first weakening segment 8 comprises a single weakening segment 8 and the second weakening segment 9 comprises a single weakening segment 9. However, it is conceivable that the first weakening segment 8 comprises a plurality of individual weakening segments 8i spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal extension direction of the first weakening segment 8, and / or the second weakening segment 9 comprises a plurality of individual weakening segments 9i spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal extension direction of the first weakening segment 9. The individual weakening segments 8i, 9i may be constructed identically or differently.

[0053] The first weakening section 8 is centered here between the apex 7 and the end of the first leg 4 that connects to the connecting bow 6. The second weakening section 9 is also centered between the apex 7 and the end of the second leg 5 that connects to the connecting bow 6. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the first weakening section 8 is closer to the apex 7 than the end of the first leg 4 that connects to the connecting bow 6, or vice versa. Similarly, it is conceivable that the second weakening section 9 is closer to the apex 7 than the end of the second leg 5 that connects to the connecting bow 6, or vice versa. This can affect the bending characteristics of the locking clip 1.

[0054] The following uses Figure 9A method for manufacturing the locking clip 1 according to the present invention is described in detail.

[0055] In the first step S1, a blank 32 of a locking clip 1 made of spring steel wire is provided, having a desired cross-section and a determined length. The cross-section may, for example, be circular or angular, as shown in... Figure 9 As indicated in the text.

[0056] In another step S2, the blank 32 is bent into a U-shaped profile using a suitable bending tool (not shown). This U-shaped profile includes a first leg 4 and a second leg 5 spaced apart along the transverse axis Q and connected by a connecting bow 6. The connecting bow 6 includes a vertex 7, which is centered between the two legs 4 and 5 when viewed along the transverse axis Q and defines the connecting bow 6 along the vertical axis H. The bending is preferably performed automatically.

[0057] Alternatively, steps S1 and S2 can be omitted, and a completed U-shaped profile can be provided in step S3.

[0058] In another step S4, a defined weakening region is formed on the U-shaped profile. This weakening region is configured to elastically deform when the fitting 3 is inserted into the plug connector 2. Here, the weakening region includes at least one first weakening segment 8 and at least one second weakening segment 9, the first weakening segment being located between the apex 7 and the first leg 4, and the second weakening segment being located between the apex segment 7 and the second leg 5 (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0059] For example, weakened sections 8 and 9 can be created using a spring steel wire with a substantially circular cross-section by pressing the circular cross-section with a suitable pressing tool 33, resulting in a curved cross-section 10 that differs from the circular cross-section. Here, the pressing tool WP is preferably constructed such that it creates two opposing, flat, and parallel outer surfaces 11 on each of the weakened sections 8 and 9. The pressing tool 33 may, for example, include two opposing pressing members 34 and 35, which press the spring steel wire between the two pressing members with a certain pressing force FP to create the corresponding weakened sections 8 and 9. The two pressing members 34 and 35 can be moved toward each other, or one of the pressing members 34 and 35 can be fixed and the corresponding other pressing member 34 and 35 can be movable and pressed toward the fixed pressing member 34 and 35.

[0060] Typically, the bending cross sections 10 of the first weakening section 8 and the second weakening section 9 are preferably constructed such that the bending cross sections are relative to the longitudinal axis L parallel to the locking clip 1 of the respective bending cross section 10 (see...). Figure 7With respect to the reference axis B, the axial area moment of inertia of the locking clamp 1 is smaller than that of the remaining segment between the first contact area 12 on the first leg 4 and configured for contact via the pipe joint 3 and the second contact area 13 on the second leg 5 and configured for contact via the pipe joint 3 (see reference axis B). Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0061] The U-shaped profile can be provided (step S3) or manufactured (step S2) such that the legs 5 and 4 each have a straight central section 14 relative to their longitudinal extension dimension, the straight central section including contact areas 12 and 13 for contact via the pipe fitting 3. Alternatively or additionally, the weakening sections 8 and 9 can be constructed straight. Preferably, the central axis M of the straight first weakening section 8 and the central axis of the straight central section 14 of the first leg 4 are arranged at a first interior angle α to each other at an obtuse angle, and / or the central axis M of the straight first weakening section 9 and the central axis of the straight central section 14 of the second leg 5 are arranged at a second interior angle β to each other at an obtuse angle (see [link to product description]). Figure 2 The first interior angle α and the second interior angle β are preferably the same size. As mentioned at the beginning of the document, the interior angles can be, for example, 60° to 120°.

[0062] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the U-shaped profile is provided (step S3) or manufactured (step S2) such that the central axis M of the straight weakening sections 8 and 9 and the central axis M of the straight central section 14 are located in the plane E formed by the vertical axis H and the transverse axis Q.

[0063] In step S4, a unique first weakening segment 8 and / or a unique second weakening segment 9 can be generated. Alternatively, multiple i-first weakening segments 8i can also be generated on the first weakening segment 8, and / or multiple i-second weakening segments 9i can also be generated on the second weakening segment 9. For this purpose, for example, a correspondingly shorter pressing tool 33 can be used, whose pressing parts 34, 35 have a smaller width (in Figure 9 (Step 4 is perpendicular to the plane of the drawing). The pressing tool 33 can be pressed multiple times sequentially to obtain multiple i-first weakening segments 8i or multiple i-second weakening segments 9i. However, a suitable pressing tool 33 can also be used, the pressing surface of which is shaped according to the desired multiple i-first weakening segments 8i or second weakening segments 9i.

[0064] The first weakening section 8 can be centrally located between the apex 7 and the end of the first leg 4 that connects to the connecting bow 6. Alternatively or additionally, the second weakening section 9 can be centrally located between the apex 7 and the end of the second leg 5 that connects to the connecting bow 6. This is in Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0065] Conversely, the first weakening section 8 can be generated closer to the apex 7 than the end of the first leg 4 that connects to the connecting bow 6, or vice versa. Similarly, the second weakening section 9 can be generated closer to the apex 7 than the end of the second leg 5 that connects to the connecting bow 6, or vice versa (not shown).

[0066] Finally, in another step S5, a first retaining section 15 with a free end can be created on the side of the first leg 4 facing away from the vertex 7 along the vertical axis H. Alternatively or additionally, a second retaining section 16 with a free end can be created on the side of the second leg 5 facing away from the vertex 7 along the vertical axis H. This can be done by correspondingly bending the spring wire, preferably automatically by means of a suitable bending tool. Step S5 is optional and is therefore indicated by dashed lines.

[0067] Here, a straight segment can preferably be provided on the first holding section 15, the central axis M of which intersects the plane E formed by the vertical axis H and the transverse axis Q, and / or a straight segment can be provided on the second holding section 16, the central axis M of which intersects the plane E. Here, each of the said straight segments preferably includes a free end and the central axis M is preferably perpendicular to the plane E, as in... Figure 5 and Figure 6 and Figure 9 As can be seen in step S5.

[0068] Alternatively, the manufacturing of retaining sections 15 and 16 can be carried out in step S2 during the bending process of the U-shaped profile, or the U-shaped profile including retaining sections 15 and 16 can be provided in step S3.

[0069] According to an alternative procedure of the method (in) Figure 9 (represented by a dashed path in the text), or weakening sections 8 and 9 may have already been created on the blank 32 (step S1) at the positions set therefor (step S4). Then the blank 32 with the weakening sections 8 and 9 set thereon can be bent into the U-shaped profile in step S2, and retaining sections 15 and 16 may also be created if necessary (step S5).

[0070] Therefore, it can be seen that steps S1 to S5 need not be performed in the order shown, but those skilled in the art can change the order of steps S1 to S5.

[0071] The various embodiments illustrate possible implementation variations. It should be noted here that the invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically shown. Rather, different combinations of the various implementation variations are possible, and such variations are based on the teachings of the specific invention and are within the capabilities of those skilled in the art.

[0072] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the description and drawings are considered in order to interpret the claims. Individual features or combinations of features in the different embodiments shown and described can be independent, inventive solutions in themselves. The task of finding a solution based on the independent invention can be derived from the description.

[0073] The full description of the numerical range in the specific specification should be understood such that the numerical range together includes any and all the sub-ranges that arise therefrom. For example, the description of 1 to 10 should be understood as including all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10, that is, all sub-ranges that start with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, such as 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0074] The regulations stipulate that, in order to better understand the construction, the components are shown partially out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced.

[0075] List of reference numerals

[0076] 1 Locking clamp

[0077] 2-plug connector

[0078] 3-pipe fitting

[0079] 4. First leg

[0080] 5. Second leg

[0081] 6 Connecting bow section

[0082] 7 vertices

[0083] 8 First weakening section

[0084] 9 Second weakening section

[0085] 10 Bending Cross Section

[0086] 11 outside

[0087] 12 First Contact Area

[0088] 13 Second Contact Area

[0089] 14 central sections

[0090] 15 First Maintaining Section

[0091] 16 Second Maintenance Section

[0092] 17 fluid pipelines

[0093] 18 storage spaces

[0094] 19 sleeve

[0095] 20 gaps

[0096] 21 First Opening

[0097] 22 Second opening

[0098] 23 First, maintain the protrusion

[0099] 24 Second, maintain the protrusion

[0100] 25 connecting sections

[0101] 26 First column section

[0102] 27 Second column section

[0103] 28 control sections

[0104] 29 Locking gap

[0105] 30 inner sleeve

[0106] 31 Outerwear

[0107] 32 blanks

[0108] 33 compression tool

[0109] 34 First pressing component

[0110] 35 Second pressing component

[0111] F force

[0112] E plane

[0113] The central axis of the M locking clip

[0114] L longitudinal axis

[0115] H vertical axis

[0116] Q transverse axis

[0117] The length of the first weakening segment X

[0118] Length of the second weakening segment of Y

[0119] The central axis of the S-plug connector

[0120] α first interior angle

[0121] β second interior angle

Claims

1. A locking clip (1) for a plug connector (2), the locking clip being used to lock a fitting (3) insertable into the plug connector (2), the locking clip (1) having a substantially U-shaped profile including a first leg (4) and a second leg (5) spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis (Q), each of the legs (4, 5) being connected to a connecting bow (6), the connecting bow including a vertex (7) centered between the two legs (4, 5) when viewed along the transverse axis (Q) and the vertex defining the locking clip (1) along a vertical axis (H) perpendicular to the transverse axis (Q), the locking clip (1) including at least one defined weakening region configured to elastically deform when the fitting (3) is inserted into the plug connector (2), characterized in that, The at least one weakening region includes at least one first weakening segment (8) and at least one second weakening segment (9), the first weakening segment being disposed between the vertex (7) and the first leg (4), and the second weakening segment being disposed between the vertex segment (7) and the second leg (5).

2. The locking clip (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking clip (1) is made of spring steel wire with a substantially circular cross-section, the weakening sections (8, 9) have a curved cross-section (10) different from the circular cross-section, and / or the weakening sections (8, 9) each include two opposing flat and parallel outer sides (11).

3. The locking clip (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first leg (4) has a first contact area (12). When the pipe connector (3) is inserted, the force (F) acting on the first leg (4) acts on the first contact area, and the locking clip (1) is elastically deformed in the area of ​​the first weakening section (8) by the force. The second leg (5) has a second contact area (13). When the pipe connector (3) is inserted, the force (F) acting on the second leg (5) acts on the second contact area, and the locking clip (1) is elastically deformed in the area of ​​the second weakening section (9) by the force. The weakening sections (8, 9) each have a curved cross section (10). The curved cross section has a smaller axial area moment of inertia than the remaining section of the locking clip (1) between the first contact area (12) and the second contact area (13) with respect to the reference axis (B) of the corresponding curved cross section (10) parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) of the locking clip (1).

4. The locking clip (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The length (X) of the first weakening section (8) is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, particularly preferably at least 50% of the length of the section of the connecting bow (6) between the apex (7) and the end of the first leg (4) connected to the connecting bow (6), and / or the length (Y) of the second weakening section (9) is at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, particularly preferably at least 50% of the length of the section of the connecting bow (6) between the apex (7) and the end of the second leg (5) connected to the connecting bow (6).

5. The locking clip (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The outriggers (4, 5) each have a straight central section (14) relative to their longitudinal extension dimension, the straight central section including contact areas (12, 13) in which force (F) is applied to the respective outriggers (4, 5) when the pipe fitting (3) is inserted, and / or the weakening sections (8, 9) are straight.

6. The locking clip (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The central axis (M) of the straight weakening section (8, 9) and the central axis (M) of the straight central section (14) are located in the plane (E) formed by the vertical axis (H) and the horizontal axis (Q).

7. The locking clip (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The at least one first weakening segment (8) comprises a single weakening segment (8), and / or the at least one second weakening segment (9) comprises a single weakening segment (9).

8. The locking clip (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The at least one first weakening section (8) is centrally located between the vertex (7) and the end of the first leg (4) connected to the connecting bow (6), and / or the at least one second weakening section (9) is centrally located between the vertex (7) and the end of the second leg (5) connected to the connecting bow (6), or the at least one first weakening section (8) is closer to the vertex (7) than the end of the first leg (4) connected to the connecting bow (6) or vice versa, and / or the at least one second weakening section (9) is closer to the vertex (7) than the end of the second leg (5) connected to the connecting bow (6) or vice versa.

9. The locking clip (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first leg (4) includes a first retaining section (15) with a free end on the side facing away from the vertex (7) along the direction of the vertical axis (H), and / or the second leg (5) includes a second retaining section (16) with a free end on the side facing away from the vertex (7) along the direction of the vertical axis (H). Preferably, the first retaining section (15) and / or the second retaining section (16) include a straight section whose central axis (M) intersects the plane (E) formed by the vertical axis (H) and the transverse axis (Q). Particularly preferably, the straight section includes a free end and the central axis (M) is perpendicular to the plane (E).

10. A plug connector (2) for connecting a fluid line (17) to a fitting (3), the fitting (3) being insertable into a receiving space (18) of the plug connector (2), and the plug connector (2) comprising a locking clip (1) for locking the fitting (3) onto the plug connector (2), characterized in that, The locking clip (1) is constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The plug connector (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The plug connector (2) includes a sleeve (19) that at least forms part of the receiving space (18), and a gap (20) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve (19). The locking clip (1) is received in the gap. The sleeve (19) includes a first opening (21) and a second opening (22) that are diametrically opposed. The first opening and the second opening connect the gap (20) and the receiving space (18) respectively. The first leg (4) of the locking clip (1) extends through the first opening (21) into the receiving space (18), and the second leg (5) of the locking clip (1) extends through the second opening (22) into the receiving space (18).

12. The plug connector (2) according to claim 11, wherein the locking clip (1) is constructed according to claim 9, characterized in that, Two retaining protrusions are provided on the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve (19) along the circumferential direction, namely a first retaining protrusion (23) and a second retaining protrusion (24) spaced apart from the first retaining protrusion along the circumferential direction. The first retaining section (15) of the first leg (4) of the locking clamp (1) is fitted onto the first retaining protrusion (23), and the second retaining section (16) of the second leg (5) of the locking clamp (1) is fitted onto the second retaining protrusion (24).

13. A method for manufacturing a locking clip (1) for a plug connector (2), the locking clip being used to lock a tube fitting (3) that can be inserted into the plug connector (2), comprising the following steps: - Provide or manufacture a substantially U-shaped profile made of spring steel wire, the U-shaped profile comprising a first leg (4) and a second leg (5) spaced apart from each other along a transverse axis (Q) and connected by a connecting bow (6), the connecting bow (6) comprising a vertex (7) which is centered between the two legs (4, 5) when viewed along the transverse axis (Q) and defines the connecting bow (6) along the vertical axis (H). - Create a defined weakening region configured to elastically deform when the fitting (3) is inserted into the plug connector (2), the weakening region including at least one first weakening segment (8) and at least one second weakening segment (9), the first weakening segment being located between the apex (7) and the first leg (4), and the second weakening segment being located between the apex segment (7) and the second leg (5).

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The weakened sections (8, 9) are produced using spring steel wire with a substantially circular cross-section by means of a pressing tool, such that a curved cross-section (10) is formed that is different from the circular cross-section. The pressing tool is preferably configured such that two opposing flat and parallel outer surfaces (11) are produced on the weakened sections (8, 9).

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The bending cross sections (10) of the first weakened section and the second weakened section (9) are respectively configured such that the first weakened section and the second weakened section have a smaller axial area moment of inertia relative to the reference axis (B) of the corresponding bending cross section (10) parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) of the locking clip (1) than the remaining section of the locking clip (1) between the first contact area (12) on the first leg (4) and configured to contact through the pipe joint (3) and the second contact area (13) on the second leg (5) and configured to contact through the pipe joint (3).

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that, The U-shaped profile is provided or manufactured such that the legs (5, 4) each have a straight central section (14) relative to their longitudinal extension dimension, the straight central section including contact areas (12, 13) for contact via the pipe fitting (3), and / or the weakened sections (8, 9) are constructed straight.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The U-shaped profile is provided or manufactured such that the central axis (M) of the straight weakening section (8, 9) and the central axis (M) of the straight central section (14) are in the plane (E) formed by the vertical axis (H) and the horizontal axis (Q), and / or produce a unique first weakening section (8) and / or a unique second weakening section (9).

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that, The at least one first weakening segment (8) is centered between the vertex (7) and the end of the first leg (4) connected to the connecting bow (6), and / or the at least one second weakening segment (9) is centered between the vertex (7) and the end of the second leg (5) connected to the connecting bow (6), or the at least one first weakening segment (8) is generated closer to the vertex (7) than the end of the first leg (4) connected to the connecting bow (6) or vice versa, and / or the at least one second weakening segment (9) is generated closer to the vertex (7) than the end of the second leg (5) connected to the connecting bow (6) or vice versa.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that, A first retaining section (15) with a free end is provided on the first leg (4) on the side away from the vertex (7) in the direction of the vertical axis (H), and / or a second retaining section (16) with a free end is provided on the second leg (5) on the side away from the vertex (7) in the direction of the vertical axis (H). Preferably, a straight section is provided on the first retaining section (15), the central axis (M) of which intersects the plane (E) formed by the vertical axis (H) and the transverse axis (Q), and / or a straight section is provided on the second retaining section (16), the central axis (M) of which intersects the plane (E) formed by the vertical axis (H) and the transverse axis (Q). Particularly preferably, each of the straight sections includes a free end and the central axis (M) is perpendicular to the plane (E).

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