A plug connector for fluidly connecting a fluid line to a fitting

Abstract

This invention relates to a plug connector (1), comprising a sleeve having a first connection section (6) for connecting a fluid pipeline and a second connection section (8) for connecting a joint. The second connection section includes a pipe section having a pipe end face, a flexible first retaining clamp (12), and a flexible second retaining clamp (15). The first retaining clamp is connected to the sleeve (5) via a first retaining connecting plate (13) and a second retaining connecting plate (14), and the second retaining clamp is connected to the sleeve (5) via a third retaining connecting plate (16) and a fourth retaining connecting plate (17). Each retaining connecting plate (13, 14, 16, 17) is connected to the sleeve (5). 7) Located outside the pipe section (10) in the radial direction, the first retaining clamp (12) includes an arc-shaped first retaining section (18), which connects the first retaining connecting plate (13) and the second retaining connecting plate (14) in the circumferential direction, and the second retaining clamp (15) includes an arc-shaped second retaining section (19) opposite to the first retaining section (18), which connects the third retaining connecting plate (16) and the fourth retaining connecting plate (17) in the circumferential direction. These retaining sections (18, 19) each include a retaining end face (20) facing the pipe end face (11) and spaced apart from the pipe end face.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a plug connector for fluidly connecting a fluid line to a connector having a circumferential flange, the plug connector comprising a sleeve having a first connection section in a region at a first sleeve end for connecting the fluid line, and a second connection section in a region at an opposite second sleeve end for connecting the connector. Background Technology

[0002] The type of plug connector described is known in the prior art and is used, for example, in vehicles, for detachably or non-detachably connecting conduits to flow guide components. Application examples include heating and cooling circuits, motor and battery cooling in electric vehicles, etc. As a connector with a circumferential flange, the standardized connector from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is commonly used, especially in the automotive field; it is known in the industry as the term SAE connector. Therefore, the dimensions of the plug connector are typically matched to the dimensions of the SAE connector.

[0003] Most known plug connectors are constructed as multi-piece units and typically include a rotatable or longitudinally movable sleeve for locking and, preferably, for releasing the locking mechanism. An example of such a plug connector is disclosed in EP 4121 681 A1.

[0004] Other embodiments of the mating connector use a separate locking mechanism, such as a clip that can be fitted onto the mating connector to engage with the circumferential flange of the connector to achieve locking. An example of such a mating connector is disclosed in US2016 / 201835 A1. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and to provide a plug connector of the type described above, which is simpler to construct, especially having fewer components, and which achieves reliable locking of the connector and is simple to operate.

[0006] The objective is achieved using the aforementioned plug-in connector, wherein the second connection section includes a tube section, a flexible first retaining clamp, and a flexible second retaining clamp. The tube section has a tube end face defining the tube section in the longitudinal direction. The first retaining clamp is connected to the sleeve via a first retaining connecting plate and a second retaining connecting plate spaced circumferentially from the first retaining connecting plate. The second retaining clamp is connected to the sleeve via a third retaining connecting plate and a fourth retaining connecting plate spaced circumferentially from the third retaining connecting plate. These retaining connecting plates are located radially within the tube section. In addition, the first retaining clamp includes an arc-shaped first retaining section that connects the first retaining plate and the second retaining plate in the circumferential direction, and the second retaining clamp includes an arc-shaped second retaining section opposite to the first retaining section in the diametrical direction that connects the third retaining plate and the fourth retaining plate in the circumferential direction. These retaining sections each include a retaining end face facing the pipe end face and spaced apart from the pipe end face, such that the circumferential flange of the joint can be form-locked in the longitudinal direction between the pipe end face and the retaining end face of the retaining section.

[0007] Preferably, the first retaining plate is located radially between the pipe section and the fourth retaining plate, and the third retaining plate is located radially between the pipe section and the second retaining plate.

[0008] Preferably, the main portions of the connecting areas of the first retaining plate and the second retaining plate on the sleeve are located on a first side of the midplane of the pipe section, the longitudinal axis of the pipe section is located in the midplane, and the first retaining section is located on a second side of the midplane opposite to the first side. The main portions of the connecting areas of the third and fourth retaining plates on the sleeve are located on the second side of the midplane, and the second retaining section is located on the first side of the midplane. This achieves self-locking because the retaining sections move towards each other when attempting to remove the connector.

[0009] Preferably, the first retaining plate includes a straight section having a longitudinal axis located in a first plane, and the second retaining plate includes a straight section having a longitudinal axis located in a second plane arranged parallel to the first plane, the third retaining plate includes a straight section having a longitudinal axis located in a third plane, and the fourth retaining plate includes a straight section having a longitudinal axis located in a fourth plane arranged parallel to the third plane. Preferably, all these planes are parallel and substantially perpendicular to the midplane of the pipe section, the longitudinal axis of the pipe section being located in the midplane.

[0010] Advantageously, the first retaining plate intersects with the fourth retaining plate, and the second retaining plate intersects with the third retaining plate. Depending on the specific structural embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the straight section of the first retaining plate and the longitudinal axis of the straight section of the fourth retaining plate may intersect at an acute or obtuse angle, and similarly, the longitudinal axis of the straight section of the second retaining plate and the longitudinal axis of the straight section of the third retaining plate may intersect at an acute or obtuse angle. The intersecting angle can be, for example, 45° to 120°. This depends particularly on the structural embodiment of the connector to which the plug connector is intended to be used, and especially on the diameter of the connector and the distance between the circumferential flange of the connector and the end of the connector inserted into the connector. The inner diameter of the tube section of the plug connector is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the connector.

[0011] Preferably, the connection areas of the first retaining plate on the sleeve and the connection areas of the second retaining plate on the sleeve are spaced apart from each other at an angle of at least 100° in the circumferential direction, and the connection areas of the third retaining plate on the sleeve and the connection areas of the fourth retaining plate on the sleeve are spaced apart from each other at an angle of at least 100° in the circumferential direction.

[0012] Advantageously, the second connecting section includes a first stop to restrict movement of the first retaining section toward the tube end face, and / or the second connecting section includes a second stop to restrict movement of the second retaining section toward the tube end face.

[0013] The first stop may include a first stop strip extending longitudinally along the outer circumferential surface of the pipe section and substantially centrally located circumferentially between a first retaining plate and a second retaining plate. The first stop strip protrudes longitudinally from the pipe end face and includes a first stop end face, and the first retaining section may include a first stop contact surface facing the first stop end face. Alternatively or additionally, the second stop may include a second stop strip extending longitudinally along the outer circumferential surface of the pipe section and substantially centrally located circumferentially between a third retaining plate and a fourth retaining plate. The second stop strip protrudes longitudinally from the pipe end face and includes a second stop end face, and the second retaining section may include a second stop contact surface facing the second stop end face.

[0014] Preferably, a groove extending in the longitudinal direction is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first retaining section, the groove connecting the retaining end face to the opposite end side of the first retaining section, and / or a groove extending in the longitudinal direction is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the second retaining section, the groove connecting the retaining end face to the opposite end side of the retaining section.

[0015] Preferably, the two grooves are opposite each other along the diametrical direction. The grooves serve two purposes: firstly, to reduce the stiffness of the retaining section, thereby making it easier to deform during unlocking, thus simplifying connector removal; secondly, the grooves also contribute to improved manufacturability during injection molding of the connector.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the first retaining clamp includes a first unlocking protrusion in the transition region from the first retaining connecting plate to the first retaining section, at least a portion of the first unlocking protrusion protruding radially from the outer peripheral surface of the fourth retaining connecting plate, and the second retaining clamp includes a curved first operating arm, which, when viewed in the circumferential direction, has a first end connected to the second retaining section and a free second end, the second end being located radially outside the first unlocking protrusion, a first sliding surface being provided on the outer side of the first unlocking protrusion, and a first sliding contact surface facing the first sliding surface being provided on the inner side of the first operating arm in the region of the free second end. Similarly, the second retaining clamp includes a second unlocking protrusion in the transition region from the third retaining plate to the second retaining section. At least a portion of the second unlocking protrusion protrudes radially from the outer peripheral surface of the second retaining plate. The first retaining clamp includes a curved second operating arm. The second operating arm, viewed circumferentially, has a first end connected to the first retaining section and a free second end. The second end is located radially outside the second unlocking protrusion. A second sliding surface is provided on the outer side of the second unlocking protrusion, and a second sliding contact surface is provided on the inner side of the second operating arm in the region of the free second end, facing the second sliding surface. Each of the sliding surfaces and sliding contact surfaces is configured such that when an unlocking force is applied radially inward to the operating arm, the sliding contact surfaces and sliding surfaces slide over each other, thereby allowing each retaining clamp to elastically open radially outward in opposite directions to release the locking of the circumferential flange by the retaining section.

[0017] Advantageously, each of the said operating arms has a structured surface on its outer peripheral surface, the structured surface marking the area of ​​the point of application of the unlocking force, the structured surface preferably including grooves and / or ribs.

[0018] When the retaining clamp is fully open under an unlocking force applied to the operating arm, it is advantageous that the minimum radial distance between the first and second retaining sections is less than the outer diameter of the circumferential flange of the connector. This ensures that the connector will not accidentally detach from the mating connector when an unlocking force is applied to the operating arm. Full unlocking is only possible by applying a defined axial force that pushes the retaining clamps apart from each other on the circumferential flange of the connector, thereby enabling the connector to be removed.

[0019] For ease of unlocking, the first retaining section may include a first arched section that bulges radially inward on its inner side, and the second retaining section may include a second arched section that bulges radially inward on its inner side. The second arched section, in particular, faces the first arched section diametrically. A minimum distance is provided between each of the arched sections, and the first and second arched sections each include a leading bevel or a leading fillet, which connects the retaining end face to the inner circumferential surface of the corresponding arched section. Thus, when the connector is pulled out, axial force is transmitted to the leading bevel or leading fillet through the rounding of the circumferential flange, generating a radially outward force that pushes the retaining clips apart.

[0020] Advantageously, the first retaining section includes an inclined first guide slope in the region on its inner circumferential surface opposite to the retaining end face and defining the end side of the first retaining section, and the second retaining section includes an inclined second guide slope in the region opposite to the retaining end face and defining the end side of the second retaining section. The first guide slope and the second guide slope converge toward the pipe section, so that when the connector is inserted into the end of the second sleeve, the circumferential flange of the connector can generate an operating force on the retaining section, and the retaining clamps can be elastically pushed apart from each other by said operating force.

[0021] Preferably, the first connecting section includes a plurality of flexible connecting tongues spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The connecting tongues surround a receiving space for an end section of the fluid conduit. The connecting tongues, viewed in the longitudinal direction, have a first tongue end connected to the sleeve and an opposite free second tongue end. Each connecting tongue has a locking port on its inner circumferential surface, the locking port being configured to engage with a corresponding locking nose of the end section of the fluid conduit to lock the fluid conduit onto the plug connector. And / or each connecting tongue has a locking nose on its inner circumferential surface, the locking nose being configured to engage with a corresponding locking port of the end section of the fluid conduit to lock the fluid conduit onto the plug connector.

[0022] It may be advantageous to provide anti-rotation recesses between two adjacent connecting tongues when viewed in the circumferential direction. These anti-rotation recesses are configured to accommodate corresponding anti-rotation protrusions in the end sections of the fluid conduit, thereby creating an anti-rotation structure.

[0023] The plug connector is preferably used in a system that, in addition to the plug connector, also includes a fluid conduit and a connector with a circumferential flange, wherein an end section of the fluid conduit is connected or can be connected to a first connecting section of the sleeve of the plug connector, and an end section of the connector is connected or can be connected to a second connecting section of the sleeve of the plug connector. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To better understand the present invention, it will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0025] The following are illustrated in very simplified diagrams: Figure 1 A system including the plug connector according to the invention, as well as fluid lines and SAE fittings, is illustrated in perspective exploded view; Figure 2 The system in the connected state is shown using a perspective view; Figure 3 A first perspective view shows the plug connector according to the invention; Figure 4 The plug connector is shown in a second perspective view; Figure 5 The plug connector is shown in a first side view; Figure 6 The plug connector is shown in a top view; Figure 7 Use the second side view to follow Figure 6 The partial longitudinal sectional view along section line BB in the figure shows the plug connector; Figure 8 The plug connector is shown according to Figure 7 The transverse sectional view of the section line AA in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] First, it must be confirmed that in different implementations of the description, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals or the same component names, and the disclosure contained throughout the specification can be reasonably transferred to the same parts having the same reference numerals or the same component names. Positional expressions chosen in the specification, such as, for example, upper, lower, or side, also apply to the current description and the accompanying drawings, and these positional expressions can be reasonably transferred to the new position when the position changes.

[0027] First refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 . Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a system is shown, which includes a fluid conduit 2, a connector 3, and a plug connector 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 The system is shown in perspective in its connected state.

[0028] The connector 3 is preferably constructed according to SAE standards and includes a circumferential flange 4 disposed on the outer circumferential surface and preferably extending around the entire periphery of the connector 3 in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the dimensions of the plug connector 1 are adapted to the dimensions of the connector 3. The plug connector 1 is used for fluid connection of the fluid line 2 to the connector 3. The plug connector 1 includes a sleeve 5, which includes a first connection section 6 for connecting the fluid line 2 in the region of a first sleeve end 7, and a second connection section 8 for connecting the connector 3 in the region of the opposite second sleeve end 9. In the example shown, the plug connector 1 is constructed as straight and therefore has a longitudinal axis L. However, the plug connector 1 may also be constructed as curved or bent, unlike the example shown.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the first connecting section 6 has a plurality of flexible connecting tongues 40 spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The number of connecting tongues 40 is only four here as an example. Of course, more or fewer connecting tongues 40 may be provided. The connecting tongues 40 surround a receiving space for accommodating the end section of the fluid conduit 2. Viewed longitudinally, the connecting tongues 40 each have a first tongue end connected to the sleeve 5 and an opposite, free second tongue end. Therefore, the first tongue end of the connecting tongue 40 essentially serves as a hinge point, and the corresponding connecting tongue 40 can elastically bend in the radial direction about the hinge point.

[0030] Each connecting tongue 40 has a locking slot 41 on its inner circumferential surface, the locking slot being configured to engage with a corresponding locking lug 42 on the end section of the fluid conduit 2 to lock the fluid conduit 2 onto the plug connector 1. Alternatively or additionally, locking lugs 42 may also be provided on the inner circumferential surface, the locking lugs being configured to engage with a corresponding locking slot 41 on the end section of the fluid conduit 2 to lock the fluid conduit 2 onto the plug connector 1 (not shown).

[0031] In the illustrated example, ramps are provided on the locking noses 42 of the fluid conduit 2, the ramps sloping towards the ends of the fluid conduit 2. When the fluid conduit 2 is introduced into the receiving space, the ramps cooperate with the connecting tongue 40 to radially push the connecting tongue 40 outwards. Upon further introduction, the locking noses 42 engage with the corresponding locking slots 41 of the sleeve 5 of the plug connector 1. Thus, the fluid conduit 2 is axially and shaped-locked onto the plug connector 1. This locking is designed not to be manually released. Possible unlocking may be performed, for example, using appropriate tools.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, a clamping protrusion 50 is provided within each locking port 41. The clamping protrusion is configured to engage with the corresponding locking nose 42 of the fluid line 2 in the locked state to reduce axial clearance, and in particular to prevent axial clearance from occurring.

[0033] Viewed circumferentially, the length of the locking nose 42 can be less than the length of the locking opening 41. This allows for a certain degree of rotational relative movement between the fluid line 2 and the sleeve 5. However, in the illustrated example, multiple anti-rotation protrusions 44 are provided on the end section of the fluid line 2. These anti-rotation protrusions 44 are respectively positioned between two adjacent locking noses 42 and have webs extending longitudinally. Viewed circumferentially, anti-rotation recesses 43 are provided on the connector 1 between two adjacent connecting tongues 40. These recesses are configured to accommodate the corresponding anti-rotation protrusions 44, thereby creating an anti-rotation structure. Thus, the fluid line can be locked not only axially but also circumferentially.

[0034] According to Figure 2 In the diagram, the end section of the fluid line 2 is connected to the first connection section 6 of the sleeve 5 of the plug connector 1, and the end section of the connector 3 is connected to the second connection section 8 of the sleeve 5 of the plug connector 1.

[0035] The following reference Figures 3 to 8 The plug connector 1 is described in detail, especially the second connection section 8. Here, Figure 3 The first perspective view showing the plug connector 1 is viewed towards the end 9 of the second sleeve. Figure 4 The plug connector 1 is shown in a second perspective view taken toward the end 7 of the first sleeve. Figure 5 The first side view shows the plug connector 1, and Figure 6 A top view of the second sleeve end 9 of the plug connector 1 is shown. Figure 7 The second side view is rotated 90° and is based on Figure 6 The partial cross-sectional view along section line BB shows the plug connector 1. Figure 8 The method of showing the plug connector 1 Figure 7 A transverse sectional view along section line AA. Alternate references. Figures 3 to 8 .

[0036] The second connecting section 8 has a particularly straight pipe section 10 with a pipe end face 11 that defines the pipe section 10 in the longitudinal direction, i.e., toward the end of the second sleeve 9. Furthermore, the connecting section 8 also has a flexible first retaining clamp 12 and a flexible second retaining clamp 15. The first retaining clamp 12 is connected to the sleeve 5 via a first retaining connecting plate 13 and a second retaining connecting plate 14 spaced apart from the first retaining connecting plate in the circumferential direction. The second retaining clamp 15 is connected to the sleeve 5 via a third retaining connecting plate 16 and a fourth retaining connecting plate 17 spaced apart from the third retaining connecting plate in the circumferential direction. The retaining connecting plates 13, 14, 16, and 17 are located outside the pipe section 10 in the radial direction.

[0037] The first retaining clamp 12 has an arc-shaped first retaining section 18, which connects the first retaining connecting plate 13 and the second retaining connecting plate 14 in the circumferential direction. The second retaining clamp 15 has an arc-shaped second retaining section 19, which connects the third retaining connecting plate 16 and the fourth retaining connecting plate 17 in the circumferential direction. The second retaining section 19 and the first retaining section 18 are arranged opposite each other in the diametrical direction. The retaining sections 18 and 19 each have a retaining end face 20, which faces the pipe end face 11 of the pipe section 10. The retaining end face 20 is spaced apart from the pipe end face 11 in the longitudinal direction, and the distance is determined such that the circumferential flange 4 of the connector 3 can be form-locked between the pipe end face 11 and the retaining end face 20 of the retaining sections 18 and 19. That is, the distance is substantially equal to the width of the circumferential flange 4 of the connector 3.

[0038] To connect connector 3 to plug connector 1, one end section of connector 3 can be inserted into sleeve 5 from the end 9 of the second sleeve. During insertion, the circumferential flange 4 applies an operating force FB to the retaining sections 18 and 19 of retaining clamps 12 and 15, thereby elastically pushing the retaining clamps 12 and 15 apart from each other. As connector 3 is further inserted, the circumferential flange 4 locks between the tube end face 11 and the retaining end face 20 of the retaining sections 18 and 19.

[0039] On the inner circumferential surface of the first retaining section 18, in the region opposite to the retaining end face 20 and defining the end side of the first retaining section 18, an inclined first guide slope 38 may be provided. Similarly, on the second retaining section 19, in the region opposite to the retaining end face 20 and defining the end side of the second retaining section 19, an inclined second guide slope 39 may be provided. The first guide slope 38 and the second guide slope 39 converge toward the pipe section 10. When the connector 3 is inserted into the second sleeve end 9, the operating force FB of the circumferential flange 4 acts on the guide slopes 38 and 39 of the retaining sections 18 and 19, thereby facilitating the pushing of the retaining clamps 12 and 15 away from each other.

[0040] In the embodiment shown in connector 1, the first retaining plate 13 of the first retaining clamp 12 is located radially between the pipe section 10 and the fourth retaining plate 17 of the second retaining clamp 15, and the third retaining plate 16 of the second retaining clamp 15 is located radially between the pipe section 10 and the second retaining plate 14 of the first retaining clamp 12. Thus, the first retaining plate 13 and the fourth retaining plate 17 intersect each other, as shown... Figure 5 As shown in the diagram, the second retaining plate 14 and the third retaining plate 16 intersect each other.

[0041] Most of the connection area of ​​the first retaining plate 13 on the sleeve 5 and most of the connection area of ​​the second retaining plate 14 on the sleeve 5 are preferably located on the first side of the midplane M of the tube section 10, the insertion connector 1, and especially the longitudinal axis L of the tube section 10, are located in the midplane, and the first retaining section 18 is located on the second side of the midplane M opposite to the first side, as shown below. Figure 8 As can be seen in the image. Similarly, most of the connection area of ​​the third retaining plate 16 on the sleeve and most of the connection area of ​​the fourth retaining plate 17 on the sleeve 5 are located on the second side of the central plane M, and the second retaining section 19 is located on the first side of the central plane M.

[0042] The first retaining plate 13 preferably has a straight section about its longitudinal center, the straight section having a longitudinal axis L1 located in a first plane E1. The second retaining plate 14 preferably has a straight section about its longitudinal center, the straight section having a longitudinal axis L2 located in a second plane E2 arranged parallel to the first plane E1. The third retaining plate 16 preferably includes a straight section about its longitudinal center, the straight section having a longitudinal axis L3 located in a third plane E3, and the fourth retaining plate 17 includes a straight section about its longitudinal center, the straight section having a longitudinal axis L4 located in a fourth plane E4 arranged parallel to the third plane E3. Here, all planes E1-E4 are preferably arranged parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the midplane M of the tube section 10, where the longitudinal axis L of the connector 1, and especially the tube section 10, is located in the midplane M. This is in Figure 8 As can be seen in the text.

[0043] In the example shown, the longitudinal axis L1 of the straight section of the first retaining plate 13 and the longitudinal axis L4 of the straight section of the fourth retaining plate 17 form an acute angle α with each other, and the longitudinal axis L2 of the straight section of the second retaining plate 14 and the longitudinal axis L3 of the straight section of the third retaining plate 16 form the same acute angle α with each other. Figure 5 As shown in the figure. This is of course merely an example, and depending on the structural implementation, the intersection angle can also be an obtuse angle.

[0044] The connecting areas of the first retaining plate 13 and the second retaining plate 14 on the sleeve 5 are preferably spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction at an angle of at least 100°. Similarly, the connecting areas of the third retaining plate 16 and the fourth retaining plate 17 on the sleeve 5 are preferably spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction at an angle of at least 100°. These two angles are preferably equal in magnitude.

[0045] The second connecting section 8 preferably has a first stop 21 and a second stop 22. The first stop is used to restrict the movement of the first holding section 18 toward the pipe end face 11, and the second stop is used to restrict the movement of the second holding section 19 toward the pipe end face 11.

[0046] In the illustrated example, the first stop 21 includes a first stop strip 23 extending longitudinally along the outer circumferential surface of the pipe section 10. In the circumferential direction, the stop strip 21 is substantially centrally located between the first retaining plate 13 and the second retaining plate 14. The first stop strip 23 protrudes longitudinally from the pipe end face 11 and has a first stop end face 24. The first retaining section 18 has a first stop contact surface 25 facing the first stop end face 24. When the first stop contact surface 25 abuts against the first stop end face 24, movement of the first retaining section 18 is restricted.

[0047] The second stop 22 is similarly configured and includes a second stop strip 26 extending longitudinally along the outer circumferential surface of the pipe section 10 and substantially centrally located between the third retaining plate 16 and the fourth retaining plate 17 in the circumferential direction. The second stop strip 26 also protrudes longitudinally from the pipe end face 11 and has a second stop end face 27. The second retaining section 19 has a second stop contact surface 28 facing the second stop end face 27. Movement of the second retaining section 19 is restricted when the second stop contact surface 28 abuts against the second stop end face 27.

[0048] In the example shown, a groove 29 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis L is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first retaining section 18, the groove connecting the retaining end face 20 to the opposite end side of the first retaining section 18. A groove 29 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis L is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the second retaining section 19, the groove connecting the retaining end face 20 to the opposite end side of the retaining section 19. The grooves 29 are arranged opposite each other along the diametrical direction.

[0049] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the plug connector 1, the first retaining clamp 12 includes a first unlocking protrusion 30 in the transition region from the first retaining link 13 to the first retaining section 18. At least a portion of the first unlocking protrusion 30 protrudes radially from the outer peripheral surface of the fourth retaining link 17, as particularly... Figure 7As shown in the diagram. The second retaining clamp 15 includes a curved first operating arm 31. The first operating arm 31, viewed in the circumferential direction, has a first end connected to the second retaining section 19 and an opposite, free second end. The second end is located outside the first unlocking protrusion 30 in the radial direction. A first sliding surface 32 is provided on the outer side of the first unlocking protrusion 30, and a first sliding contact surface 33 facing the first sliding surface 32 is provided on the inner side of the first operating arm 31 in the region of the free second end.

[0050] Similarly, the second retaining clamp 15 includes a second unlocking protrusion 34 in the transition region from the third retaining connecting plate 16 to the second retaining section 19. At least a portion of the second unlocking protrusion 34 protrudes radially from the outer peripheral surface of the second retaining connecting plate 14. The first retaining clamp 12 has a curved second operating arm 35. The second operating arm 35, viewed circumferentially, has a first end connected to the first retaining section 18 and an opposite free second end. The second end is located radially outside the second unlocking protrusion 34. A second sliding surface 36 is provided on the outer side of the second unlocking protrusion 34, and a second sliding contact surface 37 facing the second sliding surface 36 is provided on the inner side of the second operating arm 35 in the region of the free second end.

[0051] Sliding surfaces 32 and 36 and sliding contact surfaces 33 and 37 are configured such that when an unlocking force FL acts radially inward on the operating arms 31 and 35 (see... Figure 7 When the sliding contact surfaces 33 and 37 slide against each other, the sliding surfaces 32 and 36 slide against each other. As a result, the retaining clamps 12 and 15 can elastically open outward in opposite directions to release the locking of the circumferential flange 4 by the retaining sections 18 and 19.

[0052] In the illustrated example, structured surfaces are provided on the outer peripheral surfaces of the operating arms 31 and 35, respectively. These structured surfaces mark the areas where the unlocking force FA should be applied. This clearly indicates to the user the area where the unlocking force FA should ideally be applied. The structured surfaces preferably have grooves 45 and / or ribs 46, as shown in... Figure 5 As shown in the diagram.

[0053] The connector 3 can be released from the connector 1 by applying a radially inward unlocking force FL, specifically in the area of ​​the structured surface, to the operating arms 31 and 35 of the two retaining clamps 12 and 15. This causes the sliding contact surfaces 33 and 37 of the operating arms 31 and 35 to slide on corresponding sliding surfaces 32 and 36, thereby elastically opening the retaining sections 18 and 19 radially outward in opposite directions to release the locking of the circumferential flange 4. The connector 3 can be removed by pulling it out of the second connecting section 8 of the sleeve 5.

[0054] When retaining clamps 12 and 15 are fully open under the action of unlocking force FL on operating arms 31 and 35, it is advantageous that the minimum radial distance between the first retaining section 18 and the second retaining section 19 is less than the outer diameter of the circumferential flange 4 of the connector 3. In the example shown, the first retaining section 18 has a first arched section 47 that bulges radially inward on its inner side, and the second retaining section 19 has a second arched section 48 that bulges radially inward on its inner side, the second arched section facing the first arched section 47. The minimum distance is measured between arched sections 47 and 48. The first arched section 47 has a lead fillet 49 that connects the retaining end face 20 to the inner circumferential surface of the arched section 47. Similarly, the second arched section 48 has a lead fillet 49 that connects the retaining end face 20 to the inner circumferential surface of the arched section 48.

[0055] In this specific embodiment, the first arched section 47 is interrupted into two sub-segments by the groove 29, and a portion of the lead-out fillet 49 is respectively provided on these two sub-segments. Similarly, the second arched section 48 is interrupted into two sub-segments by the groove 29, and a portion of the lead-out fillet 49 is respectively provided on these two sub-segments, such as in... Figure 7 As can be seen in the diagram. Thus, two contact areas are substantially formed on the sub-section of the first arched section 47 for contact via the circumferential flange 4 of the connector 3, and two contact areas are formed on the sub-section of the second arched section 48 for contact via the circumferential flange 4 of the connector 3. When the connector 3 is pulled out, the circumferential flange 4 of the connector 3 exerts a force on the four contact areas, particularly through its rounded edges, thereby keeping the clamps 12 and 15 further open from their fully open state (achieved by the applied unlocking force FL), thus allowing the connector 3, along with the circumferential flange 4, to be detached from the plug connector 1.

[0056] All descriptions of numerical ranges in the specific instructions should be understood as including both any and all of the partial ranges. For example, the description of 1 to 10 should be understood as including all partial ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10. That is, all partial ranges that begin 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.

[0057] To comply with regulations, it should also be noted that, for better understanding of the structure, the components are sometimes not shown proportionally, and / or enlarged and / or reduced.

[0058] List of reference numerals

[0059] 1. Plug connector

[0060] 2. Fluid piping

[0061] 3 connectors

[0062] 4 Circumferential flanges

[0063] 5 sleeves

[0064] 6 First connecting section

[0065] 7. End of the first sleeve

[0066] 8 Second connecting section

[0067] 9. End of the second sleeve

[0068] 10 pipe section

[0069] 11. Pipe end face

[0070] 12 First retaining clamp

[0071] 13 First, maintain continuous board

[0072] 14 Second, maintain the continuous board

[0073] 15 Second retaining clamp

[0074] 16. Third consecutive board

[0075] 17. Fourth consecutive board

[0076] 18 First Maintenance Section

[0077] 19 Second Maintenance Section

[0078] 20. Maintain end face

[0079] 21 First stop

[0080] 22 Second stop

[0081] 23 First stop bar

[0082] 24 First stop end face

[0083] 25 First stop contact surface

[0084] 26 Second stop bar

[0085] 27 Second stop end face

[0086] 28 Second stop contact surface

[0087] 29 slots

[0088] 30 First unlocking protrusion

[0089] 31 First Manipulator

[0090] 32 First sliding surface

[0091] 33 First sliding contact surface

[0092] 34 Second unlocking protrusion

[0093] 35 Second manipulator

[0094] 36 Second sliding surface

[0095] 37 Second sliding contact surface

[0096] 38 First Inlet Incline

[0097] 39 Second Inlet Incline

[0098] 40 Connecting tongue plate

[0099] 41 Locking port

[0100] 42 Card Lock Nose

[0101] 43 Anti-rotation recess

[0102] 44 Anti-rotation protrusions

[0103] 45. Trench

[0104] 46 ribs

[0105] 47 First arch section

[0106] 48 Second arch section

[0107] 49. Exporting Rounded Corners

[0108] 50. Clamp the protrusion.

Claims

1. A plug connector (1) for fluidly connecting a fluid conduit (2) to a connector (3) having a circumferential flange (4), the plug connector (1) comprising a sleeve (5) having a first connecting section (6) for connecting the fluid conduit (2) in a region of a first sleeve end (7) and a second connecting section (8) for connecting the connector (3) in a region of an opposite second sleeve end (9), characterized in that, The second connecting section (8) includes a pipe section (10), a flexible first retaining clamp (12), and a flexible second retaining clamp (15). The pipe section has a pipe end face (11) defining the pipe section (10) in the longitudinal direction. The first retaining clamp is connected to the sleeve (5) via a first retaining connecting plate (13) and a second retaining connecting plate (14) spaced apart from the first retaining connecting plate in the circumferential direction. The second retaining clamp is connected to the sleeve (5) via a third retaining connecting plate (16) and a fourth retaining connecting plate (17) spaced apart from the third retaining connecting plate in the circumferential direction. These retaining connecting plates (13, 14, 16, 17) are located outside the pipe section (10) in the radial direction. The first retaining clamp (12) includes an arc-shaped first retaining section (18) that connects the first retaining connecting plate (13) and the second retaining connecting plate (14) in the circumferential direction. The second retaining clamp (15) includes a pipe end face (11) defining the pipe section (10) in the longitudinal direction. A retaining section (18) is an arc-shaped second retaining section (19) opposite to the diameter section. The second retaining section connects the third retaining plate (16) and the fourth retaining plate (17) in the circumferential direction. These retaining sections (18, 19) each include a retaining end face (20) facing the pipe end face (11) and spaced apart from the pipe end face, such that the circumferential flange (4) of the connector (3) can be form-locked in the longitudinal direction between the pipe end face (11) and the retaining end face (20) of the retaining section (18, 19).

2. Plug connector (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The first retaining plate (13) is located in the radial direction between the pipe section (10) and the fourth retaining plate (17), and the third retaining plate (16) is located in the radial direction between the pipe section (10) and the second retaining plate (14).

3. Plug connector (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The main part of the connection area of ​​the first retaining plate (13) on the sleeve (5) and the main part of the connection area of ​​the second retaining plate (14) on the sleeve (5) are located on the first side of the midplane (M) of the pipe section (10), the longitudinal axis (L) of the pipe section (10) is located in the midplane, and the first retaining section (18) is located on the second side of the midplane (M) opposite to the first side, and the main part of the connection area of ​​the third retaining plate (16) on the sleeve (5) and the main part of the connection area of ​​the fourth retaining plate (17) on the sleeve (5) are located on the second side of the midplane (M), and the second retaining section (19) is located on the first side of the midplane (M).

4. Plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The first holding web (13) comprises a straight section with a longitudinal axis (L1) lying in a first plane (E1), and the second holding web (14) comprises a straight section with a longitudinal axis (L2) lying in a second plane (E2) arranged parallel to the first plane (E1), the third holding web (16) comprises a straight section with a longitudinal axis (L3) lying in a third plane (E3), and the fourth holding web (17) comprises a straight section with a longitudinal axis (L4) lying in a fourth plane (E4) arranged parallel to the third plane (E3), preferably all these planes (E1-E4) are parallel and substantially perpendicular to a midplane (M) of the pipe section (10), in which a longitudinal axis (L) of the pipe section (10) lies.

5. Plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The first holding web (13) intersects the fourth holding web (17), and the second holding web (14) intersects the third holding web (16), preferably the longitudinal axis (L1) of the straight section of the first holding web (13) intersects the longitudinal axis (L4) of the straight section of the fourth holding web (17) at an acute intersection angle (a), and the longitudinal axis (L2) of the straight section of the second holding web (14) intersects the longitudinal axis (L3) of the straight section of the third holding web (16) at an acute intersection angle.

6. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The second connection section (8) comprises a first stop (21) for limiting the movement of the first holding section (18) in the direction of the pipe end face (11), and / or the second connection section comprises a second stop (22) for limiting the movement of the second holding section (19) in the direction of the pipe end face (11).

7. Plug connector (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that The first stop (21) comprises a first stop strip (23) extending in the longitudinal direction along the outer peripheral surface of the pipe section (10) and substantially centrally between the first holding web (13) and the second holding web (14) in the circumferential direction, the first stop strip (23) protrudes in the longitudinal direction beyond the pipe end face (11) and comprises a first stop end face (24), and the first holding section (18) comprises a first stop contact face (25) facing the first stop end face (24), and / or the second stop (22) comprises a second stop strip (26) extending in the longitudinal direction along the outer peripheral surface of the pipe section (10) and substantially centrally between the third holding web (16) and the fourth holding web (17) in the circumferential direction, the second stop strip (26) protrudes in the longitudinal direction beyond the pipe end face (11) and comprises a second stop end face (27), and the second holding section (19) comprises a second stop contact face (28) facing the second stop end face (27).

8. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that A groove (29) extending in the longitudinal direction is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the first holding section (18), which connects the holding end face (20) to the opposite end side of the first holding section (18), and / or a groove (29) extending in the longitudinal direction is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the second holding section (19), which connects the holding end face (20) to the opposite end side of the holding section (19).

9. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The first holding clip (12) comprises a first unlocking projection (30) in the transition region from the first holding web (13) to the first holding section (18), at least a portion of which projects beyond the outer peripheral surface of the fourth holding web (17) in the radial direction, the second holding clip (15) comprises a curved first operating arm (31) which, viewed in the circumferential direction, has a first end connected to the second holding section (19) and a free second end which, in the radial direction, lies outside the first unlocking projection (30), a first sliding surface (32) being provided on the outside of the first unlocking projection (30) and a first sliding contact surface (33) facing towards the first sliding surface (32) being provided in the region of the free second end on the inside of the first operating arm (31), the second holding clip (15) comprises a second unlocking projection (34) in the transition region from the third holding web (16) to the second holding section (19), at least a portion of which projects beyond the outer peripheral surface of the second holding web (14) in the radial direction, the first holding clip (12) comprises a curved second operating arm (35) which, viewed in the circumferential direction, has a first end connected to the first holding section (18) and a free second end which, in the radial direction, lies outside the second unlocking projection (34), a second sliding surface (36) being provided on the outside of the second unlocking projection (34) and a second sliding contact surface (37) facing towards the second sliding surface (36) being provided in the region of the free second end on the inside of the second operating arm (35), and the sliding surfaces (32, 36) and the sliding contact surfaces (33, 37) are configured such that, when an unlocking force (FL) acts radially inwards on the operating arms (31, 35), the sliding contact surfaces (33, 37) and the sliding surfaces (32, 36) slide over one another, so that the holding clips (12, 15) can be elastically spread apart in opposite directions radially outwards in order to release the locking of the circumferential flange (4) by the holding sections (18, 19).

10. Plug connector (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that A structured surface is provided on the outer peripheral surface of each operating arm (31, 35), which indicates the region of the force point of the unlocking force (FA), the structured surface preferably comprising grooves (45) and / or ribs (46).

11. Plug connector (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that When the retaining clamps (12, 15) are in the fully open state with unlocking force (FL) acting on the operating arms (31, 35), the minimum distance in the radial direction between the first retaining section (18) and the second retaining section (19) is smaller than the outer diameter of the circumferential flange (4) of the joint (3).

12. Plug connector (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that The first retaining section (18) comprises a first curved section (47) bulging radially inwards on its inner side, and the second retaining section (19) comprises a second curved section (48) bulging radially inwards on its inner side, which second curved section is especially directed diametrically towards the first curved section (47), the minimum distance being provided between the curved sections (47, 48), and the first curved section (47) and the second curved section (48) each comprise a lead-out bevel or lead-out fillet (49) connecting the retaining end face (20) with the inner circumferential face of the respective curved section (47, 48).

13. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that The first retaining section (18) comprises a first lead-in bevel (38) inclined on the inner circumferential face in a region opposite the retaining end face (20) and defining the end side of the first retaining section (18), and the second retaining section (19) comprises a second lead-in bevel (39) inclined in a region opposite the retaining end face (20) and defining the end side of the second retaining section (19), the first lead-in bevel (38) and the second lead-in bevel (39) converging in the direction of the tube section (10), so that, when the joint (3) is inserted into the second sleeve end (9), an operating force (FB) can be exerted by the circumferential flange (4) of the joint (3) on the retaining sections (18, 19), by means of which operating force the retaining clamps (12, 15) can be elastically pushed away from one another.

14. Plug connector (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that The first connecting section (6) comprises a plurality of flexible connecting tongues (40) spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction, which connecting tongues enclose a receiving space for the end section of the fluid line (2), the connecting tongues (40) each having a first tongue end connected to the sleeve (5) and an opposite, free second tongue end, viewed in the longitudinal direction, and each connecting tongue (40) has a latching mouth (41) on the inner circumferential face, which is configured to cooperate with a corresponding latching nose (42) of the end section of the fluid line (2) in order to lock the fluid line (2) on the plug connector (1), and / or each connecting tongue has a latching nose (42) on the inner circumferential face, which is configured to cooperate with a corresponding latching mouth (41) of the end section of the fluid line (2) in order to lock the fluid line (2) on the plug connector (1).

15. Plug connector (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that Viewed in the circumferential direction, an anti-rotation recess (43) is provided between two adjacent connecting tongues (40), respectively, which is configured to accommodate a corresponding anti-rotation protrusion (44) of the end section of the fluid line (2) in order to create an anti-rotation structure.

16. A system comprising a fluid line (2), a fitting (3) having a circumferential flange (4) and a plug connector (1), characterized in that The plug connector (1) is formed according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and one end section of the fluid line (2) is connected or connectable with the first connection section (6) of the sleeve (5) of the plug connector (1), and one end section of the connector piece (3) is connected or connectable with the second connection section (8) of the sleeve (5) of the plug connector (1).

17. Use of a plug connector (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein One end section of the connector piece (3) having a circumferential flange (4) is connected with the second connection section (8) of the sleeve (5) of the plug connector (1) in such a way that the connector piece (3) is inserted into the sleeve (5) from the second sleeve end (9), the circumferential flange (4) exerts an operating force (FB) on the holding sections (18, 19) of the holding clamps (12, 15), in particular on the lead-in bevels (38, 39) during the insertion, by which the holding clamps (12, 15) are elastically pushed apart from one another, the connector piece (3) is continued to be led in until the circumferential flange (4) is latched between the pipe end face (11) and the holding end face (20) of the holding sections (18, 19).

18. The use according to claim 17, wherein, The plug connector (1) is formed according to any one of claims 9 to 15, the connector piece (3) is released from the plug connector (1) in such a way that an unlocking force (FL) acting radially inwards is exerted on the operating arms (31, 35) of the two holding clamps (12, 15), so that the sliding contact faces (33, 37) of the operating arms (31, 35) slide on the corresponding sliding faces (32, 36), whereby the holding sections (18, 19) are elastically spread apart in the opposite direction radially outwards in order to release the locking of the circumferential flange (4), and the connector piece (3) is removed by pulling it out of the second connection section (8) of the sleeve (5).

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