Plug connector, connector assembly, cooling device, method and use

Abstract

The invention relates to a plug connector (10) for sealingly connecting two fluid-conducting profiles. The plug connector comprises a sealing body (20) with a first sealing section (22) and a second sealing section (40), wherein a connecting section (60) is arranged between the first sealing section and the second sealing section. The sealing body comprises a rubber-elastic material. The plug connector comprises a first connector (80) and a second connector (98), which can be arranged in the sealing body, wherein the first connector is subordinate to the first sealing section and the second connector is subordinate to the second sealing section, wherein the first connector and the second connector each comprise a material which has a higher specific stiffness than the material of the sealing body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a plug connector for sealingly connecting two fluid-guided profiles, a connector assembly, a cooling device, a method for assembling two fluid-guided profiles, and the use of a plug connector. Background Technology

[0002] Connections between cooling devices are generally known in the prior art. Thus, EP4310432 A1 discloses a cooling device with a connecting component having a locking device for detachably connecting the cooling device to another identical cooling device. During connection, the cooling devices are directly plugged into each other and sealed by means of O-rings.

[0003] The drawback of this known connection technique is that, during assembly, the connecting parts of the two cooling devices must be precisely guided to each other. This can usually only be achieved manually. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved connection for fluid-guided piping. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a connection capable of automatic connection. Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved plug connector, an improved connector assembly, an improved method for assembling two fluid-guided profiles, an improved use of a plug connector, and an improved cooling device.

[0005] This task is solved according to the invention by means of a plug connector for sealingly connecting two fluid-guided profiles, the plug connector comprising a sealing body having a first sealing section and a second sealing section, wherein a connecting section is arranged between the first sealing section and the second sealing section, wherein the sealing body comprises a rubber elastic material, wherein the plug connector comprises a first connector and a second connector disposed within the sealing body, wherein the first connector is subordinate to the first sealing section and the second connector is subordinate to the second sealing section, wherein the first connector and the second connector each comprise a material having a higher specific stiffness than the material of the sealing body.

[0006] Furthermore, this task is solved according to the present invention by means of a connector assembly comprising the aforementioned plug connector and at least one fluid-guided profile, wherein the profile includes a plug connector receiving portion having a groove for receiving a sealing section of the plug connector, wherein the groove includes an outer groove wall that interacts with the sealing body of the plug connector in a sealing manner, and wherein the groove includes an inner groove wall that interacts with the connector in a force-fit manner.

[0007] Furthermore, this task is solved according to the present invention by means of a method for assembling two fluid-guided profiles, the method comprising the following steps: o Provide first profile and second profile, o Provide at least one of the aforementioned plug connectors. o Insert the plug connector into the first plug connector receiving part of the first profile. o The receiving part of the second plug connector is transferred via the plug connector, so that the two profiles are connected at least by means of the plug connector.

[0008] Furthermore, this task is solved according to the present invention by means of a plug connector for sealing connection of two fluid-guided profiles.

[0009] Furthermore, this task is solved according to the present invention by means of a cooling device comprising a profile for guiding coolant, the profile having a plug connector receiving portion for the aforementioned plug connector, wherein the plug connector receiving portion includes a groove for receiving a sealing section of the plug connector, wherein the groove includes an outer groove wall for sealing with a sealing body of the plug connector, wherein the groove includes an inner groove wall for force-fitting connection with the connector of the plug connector, wherein the cooling device includes at least one cooling member.

[0010] A plug connector for sealing two fluid-guided profiles is proposed. The plug connector includes a sealing body having a first sealing section and a second sealing section, wherein a connecting section is arranged between the first and second sealing sections. The sealing body comprises a rubber-elastic material. The plug connector includes a first connector and a second connector, which are disposed within the sealing body, wherein the first connector belongs to the first sealing section and the second connector belongs to the second sealing section, and each of the first and second connectors comprises a material having a higher specific stiffness than the material of the sealing body.

[0011] Advantageously, the plug connector can be used to connect two fluid-guided lines and / or profiles. Particularly advantageously, the seal provides optimal sealing to the connected profiles, while the connector stabilizes the plug connector.

[0012] Preferably, the connectors are arranged in the sealed section, while the connecting section remains substantially open. This advantageously ensures that the connectors can move parallel to each other. This makes automated assembly of the plug connectors possible, for example, in fluid-guided profiles. In particular, parallel movement of the connectors in a plane is possible, the vector of which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the plug connector. In one embodiment, the connectors can move parallel to each other from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, preferably about 2 mm.

[0013] The concept “substantially” describes the following tolerance range, which is acceptable to those skilled in the art from an economic and technical perspective, such that the corresponding feature can still be identified as or implemented as that feature.

[0014] When the concept of "about" is used within the scope of this invention in relation to a value or range of values, it should be understood that a tolerance range of ±20%, preferably ±10%, and more preferably ±5% is typically provided for those skilled in the art. As long as different value ranges, such as preferred and more preferred ranges, are specified in this invention, the lower and upper limits of different value ranges can be combined with each other.

[0015] The exemplary enumerations should be considered non-exhaustive in the sense of this invention, and may be supplemented within the scope of general expertise.

[0016] The plug connector includes a sealing body. The sealing body includes a rubber-elastic material. In one embodiment, the sealing body is configured to include at least one material selected from the group consisting of raw rubber, rubber, silicone, and / or thermoplastic elastomers. In one embodiment, the first connector and the second connector include at least one material selected from the group consisting of metal, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and / or polycarbonate. In one design, the sealing body includes at least one material selected from the group consisting of raw rubber, rubber, silicone, and / or thermoplastic elastomers, and the first connector and the second connector include at least one material selected from the group consisting of metal, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyketone, polyamide, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene ether, and / or polyphthalamide.

[0017] In one embodiment, the sealing body is designed such that it is rotationally symmetrical about its longitudinal axis. The sealing body is substantially cylindrical in configuration. The sealing body includes a first sealing section. This first sealing section is substantially cylindrical and preferably has a first outer peripheral surface. Furthermore, in another embodiment of the invention, the first sealing section includes an inner peripheral surface that includes a tab.

[0018] In one design, the sealing body is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about its longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the sealing body includes a first sealing section. The first sealing section is substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the first sealing section includes a first outer peripheral surface.

[0019] Furthermore, the first sealing section includes a first inner circumferential surface. Preferably, the inner circumferential surface is designed to be substantially smooth. In one embodiment, the first sealing section includes a first end portion. Preferably, the first end portion includes a first tapered section, more preferably an outer cone. Advantageously, the outer cone simplifies the insertion of the plug connector into the fluid-guided profile. Additionally, the first end portion includes a retaining protrusion, more preferably constructed on the inner circumferential surface. The retaining protrusion allows the first connector to be retained within the first sealing section.

[0020] In one embodiment, the sealing body includes a second sealing section. The second sealing section is substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the second sealing section includes a second outer peripheral surface. Furthermore, the second sealing section includes a second inner peripheral surface. Preferably, the inner peripheral surface is substantially smooth. In one embodiment, the second sealing section includes a second end. Preferably, the second end includes a second tapered section, preferably an outer cone. Advantageously, the outer cone simplifies the insertion of the plug connector into the fluid-guided profile. Additionally, the first end includes a retaining protrusion, more preferably formed on the inner peripheral surface. The retaining protrusion allows the second connector to be retained within the second sealing section.

[0021] In one design, the first sealing section and / or the second sealing section includes an outer peripheral surface that includes a number of sealing ribs. In one embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the first sealing section and / or the second sealing section includes about 1 to about 10, preferably about 1 to about 5, and more preferably about 4 sealing ribs.

[0022] The sealing body includes a connecting section disposed between a first sealing section and a second sealing section. Preferably, the connecting section connects the first sealing section and the second sealing section.

[0023] Preferably, the rubber elastic material of the connecting section restricts the movement of the connectors relative to each other. In one design, the connecting section includes an inner circumferential surface. Preferably, the inner circumferential surface includes tabs. The advantage of the tabs is that the connectors are spaced apart from each other by them, and furthermore, the tabs particularly affect the mobility of the seal. In different variations of the seal, the tabs can be designed differently. Preferably, the tabs extend radially into the seal to varying degrees. Preferably, the tabs are at least partially radially annular on the inner circumferential surface. Preferably, the tabs are at least partially arranged between the connectors.

[0024] In one embodiment, the connection section includes an outer peripheral surface. In another design, the connection section includes an outer peripheral surface that includes a material protrusion. The material protrusion is preferably a deposit of material on the outer peripheral surface of the connection section. Preferably, the material protrusion stabilizes the seal when the connectors move parallel to each other.

[0025] Preferably, the connection section is defined by a tab on the inner circumferential surface and / or a material protrusion on the outer circumferential surface. Preferably, the sealing section directly abuts the tab and / or the material protrusion. More preferably, the connection section is defined longitudinally in the seal body as a section where the connector is not arranged or is not arranged in the seal body.

[0026] In one embodiment, the seal includes a through-hole extending longitudinally from a first end of the seal to a second end. The through-hole allows for receiving a connector and for the flow of fluid, particularly coolant.

[0027] The plug connector further includes two connectors, which may be arranged in a first sealing section and a second sealing section. In one embodiment, the connectors are designed to be identical.

[0028] Preferably, the connector can be arranged or disposed in a through-hole of the sealing body. The connector is preferably designed to be substantially hollow cylindrical. This allows fluid to flow advantageously through these connectors.

[0029] In one embodiment, the connector may be arranged or positioned between the tab and the retaining protrusion of the corresponding sealing section. More preferably, the connector is held in the corresponding sealing section or sealing body by the shaped fit of the tab and the retaining protrusion.

[0030] Each connector comprises a material having a higher specific stiffness than the material of the seal. In particular, the connector comprises a material having a higher elastic modulus than the material of the seal. Preferably, the connector stabilizes the seal, especially when the connectors move parallel to each other, for example, during tolerance compensation. The connector is preferably designed to be rigid or shape-stable.

[0031] The connector preferably includes an outer peripheral surface. The connector preferably includes an inner peripheral surface. In one embodiment, the outer peripheral surface mates with the inner peripheral surface of the seal. In one embodiment, the connector has an outer diameter that substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the corresponding sealing section. In one design, the first connector and / or the second connector are configured to have a maximum outer diameter that substantially corresponds to a maximum inner diameter.

[0032] Preferably, the outer and / or inner peripheral surfaces are designed to be smooth, and in particular, without material protrusions and / or recesses.

[0033] Preferably, the first connector and / or the second connector each include a first end and a second end. Preferably, the first end of the first connector and / or the second connector is tapered. Preferably, the first connector and / or the second connector includes an outer cone. Advantageously, the outer cone simplifies the insertion of the connector into the corresponding sealing section via a retaining bulge. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the first end is smaller than the inner diameter approximately at the middle of the connector and / or at the second end. More preferably, the second end is cylindrical.

[0034] In one design, the first connector and / or the second connector includes at least a first centering geometry. In one embodiment, the first connector and / or the second connector includes an inner circumferential surface on which the first centering geometry is formed. In one embodiment, the first centering geometry is formed as a groove or a material deposit.

[0035] In an exemplary design of a plug connector, the plug connector has a through-hole for guiding fluid, particularly coolant, to pass through. The exemplary plug connector includes a sealing body having a first sealing section and a second sealing section. A connecting section is arranged between the first sealing section and the second sealing section. The first sealing section includes a first outer peripheral surface on which a first sealing rib is formed. A tapered section is formed at a first end of the first sealing section. The exemplary sealing section further has a first inner peripheral surface with a retaining bulge at the first end. The first sealing section further includes a first maximum inner diameter.

[0036] The second sealing section is constructed substantially the same as the first sealing section. It has a second outer peripheral surface on which a sealing rib is formed. The second sealing section also has an inner peripheral surface on which a second retaining ridge is formed. A tapered section is formed at the second end of the second sealing section. The second sealing section further includes a second maximum inner diameter, which is the same as the first maximum inner diameter.

[0037] A connecting section is arranged between a first sealing section and a second sealing section. The connecting section exemplarily has a third inner circumferential surface on which a tab separating the first and second sealing sections is formed. The tab exemplarily has an annular structure on the inner circumferential surface and extends radially inward. A material protrusion exemplarily is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the connecting section.

[0038] Furthermore, the exemplary plug connector includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is essentially a plastic cylinder including an outer circumferential surface and an inner circumferential surface. Additionally, the first connector has a first end and a second end. The second end is slightly tapered to overcome a retaining bulge when the first connector is engaged into a sealing body or into a first sealing section. In contrast, the first end of the first connector is constructed such that overcoming the retaining bulge requires, for example, tools or cannot be done without damage. Therefore, the connector is form-fitted within the sealing body between the retaining bulge and the tab. The maximum outer diameter is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the first sealing section. The first connector is significantly more shape-stable than the sealing body and stabilizes the sealing body when engaged into a profile. The second connector is constructed identically to the first connector and is arranged in the second sealing section.

[0039] In the inserted state, the profiles connected to the plug connector may have tolerant deviations in their alignment. Here, the connectors are exemplarily capable of moving parallel to each other. Then, the first sealing section moves, for example, relative to the second sealing section, where the deformation of the seal is essentially limited to the area of ​​the connecting section. Material bulges and tabs determine the degree of deformation and stabilize the seal under forces perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Even when the sealing sections move parallel, the through-hole remains open for the passage of guiding fluid.

[0040] Advantageously, through connector stabilization, the outer peripheral surface of the sealing section remains substantially unchanged, allowing the sealing ribs to exhibit optimal sealing performance, regardless of tolerance deviations. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the first connector at least partially rests against the inner peripheral surface of the first sealing section, and the same applies to the second connector in the second sealing section. This advantageously ensures sealing even with tolerance deviations in the mating profiles.

[0041] Furthermore, a connector assembly is proposed, comprising the aforementioned plug connector and at least one fluid-guided profile. The profile includes a plug connector receiving portion having a groove for receiving a sealing section of the plug connector. The groove includes an outer groove wall that interacts with the sealing body of the plug connector in a sealing manner, wherein the groove includes an inner groove wall that interacts with the connector in a force-fit manner.

[0042] In one embodiment, the profile is a cooling profile, preferably used for cooling electrical components. More preferably, the profile can guide or direct coolant. The proposed profile can be connected communicatively to another profile via a plug connector. In particular, fluid or coolant can be guided from the first profile to the second profile via a plug connector. Preferably, the profile is designed as a fluid conduit. More preferably, the profile includes at least one fluid conduit. Preferably, the profile includes a number of fluid conduits, for example, about two to about four, preferably about two.

[0043] Furthermore, preferably, the profile includes at least one cooling component. In one embodiment, the cooling component enables heat energy, preferably from a fluid conduit or from a fluid within the profile, to be dissipated to ambient air. In another design, the cooling component is configured as a heat exchanger. In one design, the cooling component is configured to receive and / or dissipate heat energy from electronic components.

[0044] The plug connector receiving portion includes a groove, preferably an annular groove. The groove includes an inner groove wall and an outer groove wall. Preferably, a groove bottom exists between the inner and outer groove walls. The inner groove wall can receive the connector, and more preferably can center it. The plug connector can be force-fitted into the inner groove wall, or held by the inner groove wall in a force-fit manner. For easier assembly and centering, the inner groove wall includes a chamfer, preferably an outer chamfer.

[0045] In one design, the inner groove wall includes a second centering geometry that interacts with a first centering geometry of the connector. Preferably, the second centering geometry is designed as a groove or a material stack that interacts with, corresponds to, or is center-fitted with the first centering geometry of the connector.

[0046] The groove further includes an outer groove wall. This outer groove wall interacts with the sealing body in a sealing manner. Preferably, the inner diameter of the outer groove wall matches the outer diameter of the sealing section for optimal sealing. In one embodiment, an interference fit is constructed between the sealing section and the outer groove wall. More preferably, the interference fit is sized such that the sealing rib deforms when engaged in the groove.

[0047] In one design, the profile includes at least one engaging connector component for connection with another profile. Preferably, the engaging connector component protrudes at least partially beyond the plug connector. Preferably, the engaging connector component extends longitudinally in the profile, and more preferably, extends longitudinally in the plug connector.

[0048] In the context of this invention, a snap-fit ​​connector should be understood as a form-fitting functional element for the releasable and / or non-releasable engagement of components. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connector component elastically deforms and subsequently hooks detachably or non-releasably into another snap-fit ​​connector component. Snap-fit ​​connectors can be designed as hooks, ball joints, and / or ring-lock connections. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​connection formed by a first snap-fit ​​connector component and a second snap-fit ​​connector component of the profiles to be connected is a ring-lock connection.

[0049] An exemplary design of the connector assembly includes a first plug connector and a second plug connector, which are insertable into a profile. The profile exemplarily has two fluid conduits of substantially identical construction, which are interconnected, for example, non-detachably. Furthermore, the profile includes a cooling member capable of dissipating heat from the fluid conduits to the environment. The profile includes two protective ribs for mechanically shielding the plug connectors assembled in the unengaged profile. The profile further includes two engaging connector components, allowing the profile to be combined with other profiles.

[0050] An exemplary fluid line includes a protective rib. In the installed state, when the profile is not yet engaged with another profile, the protective rib protects the plug connector. The protective rib can also advantageously serve a guiding function when the two profiles are engaged. Furthermore, the fluid line has engaging connector components. At the first end of the profile, the engaging connector components are respectively configured as locking lugs and engage with corresponding engaging connector components at the second end of a corresponding profile with the same configuration.

[0051] An exemplary design of the profile includes fluid conduits, each conduit having a plug connector receiver with a groove having an inner wall. The inner wall includes, for example, a second centering geometry that interacts with a first centering geometry of a first connector of the plug connector. When the plug connector is engaged into the profile, particularly into the plug connector receiver, the plug connector is advantageously aligned within the profile.

[0052] An exemplary connector assembly includes a plug connector and a profile. The plug connector is disposed in a groove of a plug connector receiving portion with a first sealing section, and in a groove of a second plug connector receiving portion with a second sealing section. The outer groove wall of the first profile seals against the first sealing section, and the outer groove wall of the second profile seals against the second sealing section. Furthermore, the first connector is force-fitted to the inner groove wall, and the second connector is force-fitted to the inner groove wall.

[0053] If the exemplary connector assembly engages with another profile, the receiving portion of the plug connector may not be perfectly aligned, resulting in parallel movement of the connector. This means that the central axis of the first profile has a tolerance deviation from the central axis of the second profile. Nevertheless, optimal sealing and mechanical connection can be guaranteed by means of the plug connector because the plug connector can match the tolerance deviation. The plug connector of the connector assembly advantageously allows for tolerance deviation or parallel movement of the connector in any direction perpendicular to the central axis of the profile or the plug connector.

[0054] In addition, a method for assembling two fluid-guided profiles is proposed, comprising the following steps: o Provide first profile and second profile, o Provide at least one of the aforementioned plug connectors. o Insert the plug connector into the first plug connector receiving part of the first profile. o The receiving part of the second plug connector is transferred via the plug connector, so that the two profiles are connected at least by means of the plug connector.

[0055] In one design, at least one first engaging connection component of the first profile is locked to a second engaging connector component of the second profile.

[0056] For example, when the connector assembly is engaged, the tapered section of the second sealing section moves past the chamfer of the outer groove wall of the plug connector receiving portion of the profile of the second connector assembly, wherein the connector is capable of parallel movement. The groove of the second profile further includes an inner groove wall with a chamfer, which facilitates connector assembly.

[0057] In addition, a plug connector is proposed for sealing connection of two fluid-guided profiles.

[0058] Furthermore, a cooling device is proposed, comprising a profile for guiding coolant, the profile having a plug connector receiving portion for the aforementioned plug connector, wherein the plug connector receiving portion includes a groove for receiving a sealing section of the plug connector, wherein the groove includes an outer groove wall for sealing with a sealing body of the plug connector, wherein the groove includes an inner groove wall for force-fit connection with a connector of the plug connector, wherein the cooling device includes at least one cooling component.

[0059] Preferably, the profile of the cooling device is designed as described above within the scope of the connector assembly. In one embodiment, the inner groove wall includes a second centering geometry that interacts with the first centering geometry of the connector. In another embodiment of the cooling member profile, the profile includes at least one engaging connector component for connection with another cooling member. In a preferred embodiment, multiple cooling members can be connected in series, particularly by means of plug connectors and / or engaging connections. This advantageously increases cooling power.

[0060] In one embodiment, the cooling component, aided by a cooling device, dissipates heat, preferably from fluid lines or from fluid within a profile, to ambient air. In another design, the cooling component is configured as a heat exchanger. In one design, the cooling component is designed to receive and / or dissipate heat from electronic components. Attached Figure Description

[0061] Other advantageous design solutions are known from the following figures. However, the improvements presented therein should not be construed as limiting, but rather that the features described therein can be combined with each other and with the aforementioned features to form other design solutions. Furthermore, it should be noted that the reference numerals used in the description of the figures do not limit the scope of protection of the invention, but merely indicate the embodiments shown in the figures. Identical components or components having the same function have the same reference numerals hereinafter. In the figures: Figure 1 A first view of the cooling device is shown; Figure 2 A view of the profile is displayed; Figure 3 Showing from Figure 1 A second view of the connector assembly; Figure 4 The first cross-sectional view of the plug connector is shown; Figure 5 Showing from Figure 5 A second cross-sectional view of the plug connector; Figure 6 Showing from Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly before it is engaged with another connector assembly. Figure 7 Showing from Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the connector assembly after it has been engaged with another connector assembly; and Figure 8 Showing from Figure 7 Another cross-sectional view of the engaged connector assembly; Detailed Implementation

[0062] Figure 1 A cooling device 99 with a connector assembly 100 is shown, comprising a first plug connector 10 and a second plug connector 11, which are insertable into a profile 104. The profile has two fluid lines 102 and 103, which are non-detachably connected to each other. Furthermore, the profile 104 includes a cooling member 106 that dissipates heat from the fluid lines 102 and 103 to the environment. The profile 104 includes two protective ribs 126 and 136 for mechanically shielding the plug connectors 110 and 111 assembled in the unengaged portion of the profile 104. The profile further includes two engaging connector components 126 and 128, by which the profile 104 can engage with… Figure 6 The other profile combination 105 shown in the image.

[0063] Figure 2The image shows a profile 104 without the plug connectors 10 and 11 and without the cooling component 106. Profile 104 includes two fluid lines 102 and 103, which are substantially identical in construction. Therefore, for clarity, the features of only one fluid line (fluid line 103 in this case) will be discussed below. The features of the other fluid line (fluid line 102 in this case) are correspondingly identical.

[0064] The fluid conduit 103 includes protective ribs 134 and 136, of which only protective rib 134 is visible in the figure. In the installed state, when profile 104 is not yet connected to another profile 105 (see figure...), Figure 6 When engaged, the protective ribs protect the plug connectors 10 and 11. Furthermore, the fluid line 103 has two engaging connector components 128 and 130, wherein... Figure 2 Only the engaging connector component 128 is visible. Furthermore, the fluid conduit 103 has engaging connector components 130 and 132, with only engaging connector component 130 visible. Engaging connector components 130 and 132, respectively configured as locking lugs, mate with corresponding engaging connector components 126 and 128 of profiles of the same configuration, as exemplified by their... Figure 8 As shown in the image.

[0065] Figure 3 The connector assembly 100 is shown with a profile 104 having two fluid channels 102 and 103. Fluid channel 102 includes a plug connector receiver 108 with a groove 110 having an inner groove wall 112. The inner groove wall 112 includes a second centering geometry 116 that interacts with a first centering geometry 92 of the first connector 80 of the plug connector 10. When the plug connector 10 is engaged into the profile 104, particularly into the plug connector receiver 108, the plug connector 10 is aligned within the profile 104.

[0066] Figure 4 The plug connector 10 is shown in a longitudinal sectional view. The plug connector 10 has a through-hole 70 for guiding fluid. The plug connector 10 includes a sealing body 20 having a first sealing section 22 and a second sealing section 40. A connecting section 60 is arranged between the first sealing section 22 and the second sealing section 40. The first sealing section 22 includes a first outer peripheral surface 24 on which a first sealing rib 26 is formed. For clarity, only one sealing rib 26 is marked. A tapered section 32 is formed at a first end 30. The sealing section 22 also has a first inner peripheral surface 28 with a retaining protrusion 34 at the first end 30. The first sealing section 22 further includes a first maximum inner diameter 36.

[0067] The second sealing section 40 is constructed substantially the same as the first sealing section 22. It has a second outer peripheral surface 42 on which a sealing rib 44 is formed. For clarity, only one of the sealing ribs, the sealing rib 44, is marked. The second sealing section 40 further has an inner peripheral surface 48 on which a second retaining protrusion 54 is formed. At the second end 50, a tapered section 52 is formed in the second sealing section 40. The second sealing section 22 further includes a second maximum inner diameter 56, which is the same as the first maximum inner diameter 36.

[0068] A connecting section 60 is arranged between the first sealing section 22 and the second sealing section 40. The connecting section 60 has a third inner circumferential surface 62 on which a tab 64 is formed, separating the first sealing section 22 and the second sealing section 40. The tab 64 is circumferentially formed on the inner circumferential surface 62 and protrudes radially inward. A material protrusion 68 is formed on the outer circumferential surface 66 of the connecting section 60.

[0069] The first connector 80, essentially a plastic cylinder, includes an outer peripheral surface 82 and an inner peripheral surface 84. Furthermore, the first connector 80 has a first end 88 and a second end 90. The second end 90 is slightly tapered to overcome the retaining protrusion 34 when the first connector 80 is engaged into the seal 20 or the first sealing section 22. In contrast, the first end 88 of the first connector 80 is constructed such that overcoming the retaining protrusion 34 requires a tool. Therefore, the connector 80 is form-fitted into the seal between the retaining protrusion 34 and the tab 64. The maximum outer diameter 86 is approximately equal to the inner diameter 36 of the first sealing section 22. The first connector 80 is significantly more shape-stable than the seal 20 and stabilizes the seal when engaged into the profile 104.

[0070] The second connector 98 is constructed in the same manner as the first connector 80, and for this reason, it will not be described further here.

[0071] Figure 5 The plug connector 10 is shown in a longitudinal sectional view, with connectors 80 and 98 moving parallel to each other. A first sealing section 22 moves relative to a second sealing section 40, where deformation of the seal 20 exists essentially only in the region of the connecting section 68. Material protrusions 62 and tabs 64 determine the degree of deformation and stabilize the seal 20 under forces perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 140. Even when sealing sections 22 and 40 move parallel to each other, the through-hole 70 remains open to allow the guide fluid to pass through.

[0072] The outer peripheral surfaces 24 and 42, as well as the sealing ribs 26 and 44, remain substantially unchanged due to the stabilizing effect of connectors 80 and 98. In particular, the outer peripheral surface 82 of connector 80 is at least partially in full contact with the inner peripheral surface 28 of the first sealing section 22, and the same applies to connector 98. This advantageously ensures sealing even under tolerant deviations in the mating profiles.

[0073] Figure 5 Furthermore, a tapered section 32 can be seen at the first end 30 and a retaining bulge can be seen on the first inner circumferential surface 28, and a tapered section 52 and a retaining bulge 54 on the second inner circumferential surface 48 can be seen at the second end 50 of the second sealing section 40.

[0074] Figure 6 A first connector assembly 100, which is to be connected to a second connector assembly 101, is shown in a longitudinal sectional view. The first connector assembly 100 includes a first plug connector 10 and a profile 104. The plug connector 10 is arranged in a groove 110 of a plug connector receiving portion 108 with a first sealing section 22. An outer groove wall 120 seals against the first sealing section. Furthermore, a first connector 80 is force-fitted to an inner groove wall 112. A second sealing section 40, together with a second connector 98, protrudes along the direction of the second connector assembly 101.

[0075] When the connector assemblies 100 and 101 are engaged, the tapered section 52 of the second sealing section 40 moves past the chamfer 122 of the outer groove wall 122 of the plug connector receiving portion 109 of the profile 140 of the second connector assembly 101, wherein connectors 80 and 98 are able to move in parallel. The groove 111 of the second profile 105 further includes an inner groove wall 113 with a chamfer 114, which facilitates the assembly of connector 98.

[0076] Figure 7 Showing from Figure 6The profiles 104 and 105 are joined together and connected by a plug connector 80. The first connector assembly 100 includes a first plug connector 10 and a profile 104. The plug connector 10 is arranged in a groove 110 of a plug connector receiving portion 108 with a first sealing section 22, and in a groove 111 of a second plug connector receiving portion 109 with a second sealing section 40. An outer groove wall 120 seals against the first sealing section 22, and an outer groove wall 121 seals against the second sealing section 40. Furthermore, the first connector 80 is force-fitted to an inner groove wall 112, and the second connector 98 is force-fitted to an inner groove wall 113. The plug connector receiving portions 108 and 109 are not perfectly aligned, allowing connectors 80 and 98 to move parallel, meaning that the longitudinal center axis 140 of the first profile has a tolerance deviation 142 from the longitudinal center axis 141 of the second profile 105. Nevertheless, optimal sealing and mechanical connection can be ensured by means of plug connector 10, because plug connector 10 can match tolerance deviation 142.

[0077] Since the second connector assembly 101 has an additional plug connector (not further marked) on the side away from the plug connector receiving portion 109, additional profiles (not shown here) can be connected in series.

[0078] Figure 8 Display and Figure 7 The profiles 104 and 140 are shown in a vertical sectional view. It can be seen that the longitudinal center axes 140 and 141 also have a tolerance deviation 143 in the other direction. Both plug connectors 10 and 11, arranged in the connector assembly 100, are deformable but seal the fluid lines 102 and 103. The first profile 104 is further connected to the second profile 140 via engaging connector parts 126, 128, 130, and 132. Engaging connector parts 126 and 128 of profile 104 engage with and lock into engaging connector parts 130 and 132 of profile 140.

[0079] Using the proposed plug connectors 10 and 11 and connector assemblies 100 and 101, fluid-guided connections between two profiles 104 and 140 can be advantageously achieved. Due to the guaranteed reliable sealing and mechanical connection, the assembly of the individual profiles 104 and 140 can also be advantageously automated.

Claims

1. A plug connector (10) for sealingly connecting two fluid-guided profiles (104, 105), comprising a sealing body (20) having a first sealing section (22) and a second sealing section (40), wherein a connecting section (60) is arranged between the first sealing section (22) and the second sealing section (40), wherein the sealing body (20) comprises a rubber elastic material, wherein the plug connector (10, 11) comprises a first connector (80) and a second connector (98) disposed in the sealing body (20), wherein the first connector (80) is subordinate to the first sealing section (22) and the second connector (98) is subordinate to the second sealing section (40), wherein the first connector (80) and the second connector (98) each comprise a material having a higher specific stiffness than the material of the sealing body (20).

2. The plug connector (10, 11) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing body (20) comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of raw rubber, rubber, silicone and / or thermoplastic elastomers, and wherein the first connector and the second connector comprise at least one material selected from the group consisting of metal, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyketone, polyamide, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene ether and / or polyphthalamide.

3. The plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The sealing body (20) is configured to be rotationally symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis (140).

4. The plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first sealing section (22) and / or the second sealing section (40) include an outer peripheral surface, which includes a number of sealing ribs.

5. The plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The connecting section (60) includes an inner circumferential surface, which includes a tab (64).

6. The plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The connecting section (60) includes an outer peripheral surface (66) which includes a material protrusion (68).

7. The plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first connector (80) and / or the second connector (98) have a maximum outer diameter (86), which approximately corresponds to a maximum inner diameter (36, 56).

8. The plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first connector (80) and / or the second connector (98) include at least one first centering geometry (92).

9. A connector assembly (100, 101) comprising a plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of the preceding claims and at least one fluid-guided profile (104, 105), wherein the profile (104, 105) includes a plug connector receiving portion (108, 109) having a groove (110) for receiving a sealing section (22, 40) of the plug connector (10, 11), wherein the groove (110) includes an outer groove wall (120) that interacts in a sealing manner with a sealing body (20) of the plug connector (10, 11), wherein the groove (110) includes an inner groove wall (112) that interacts with the connector (80, 98) in a force-fit manner.

10. The connector assembly (100, 101) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The inner groove wall (112) includes a second centering geometry (116) that interacts with the first centering geometry (92) of the connector (80, 98).

11. The connector assembly (100, 101) according to one or more of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that, The profiles (104, 105) include at least one snap-fit ​​connector component (126, 128, 130, 132) for connection with other profiles (104, 105).

12. A method for assembling two fluid-guided profiles (104, 105), comprising the following steps: o Provides a first profile (104) and a second profile (105). o Provide at least one plug connector (10, 11) as described in one or more of claims 1 to 8. o Insert the plug connectors (10, 11) into the first plug connector receiving part (108) of the first profile (104). o Transfer the second plug connector receiving part (109) via the plug connectors (10, 11) so that the two profiles (104, 105) are connected at least by means of the plug connectors (10, 11).

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, At least one first engaging connection component (126, 128, 130, 132) of the first profile (104) engages with the second engaging connector component (126, 128, 130, 132) of the second profile (105).

14. The use of a plug connector (10, 11) for sealing connection of two fluid-guided profiles (104, 105).

15. A cooling device (99) comprising a profile (104, 105) for guiding a coolant, the profile having a plug connector receiving portion (108, 109) for a plug connector (10, 11) according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plug connector receiving portion (108, 109) includes a groove (110) for receiving a sealing section (22, 40) of the plug connector (10, 11), wherein the groove (110) includes an outer groove wall (120) for sealing with a sealing body (20) of the plug connector (10, 11), wherein the groove (110) includes an inner groove wall (112) for force-fit connection with a connector (80, 98) of the plug connector (10, 11), wherein the cooling device (99) includes at least one cooling member (106).

Images