Connection device for media lines

Abstract

Connection device (1) for media lines, with at least one coupling element (2), wherein the coupling element (2) has at least one connection opening (4) and at least one fluid channel (5), wherein at least one insert part (3) is provided, wherein the insert part (3) can be at least partially detachably inserted into the connection opening (4), wherein the insert part (3) has at least one spring-elastic locking element (8), wherein the coupling element (2) has a first counter-locking element (10) on an outer circumference (9) that at least partially surrounds the connection opening (4), wherein the locking element (8) can be locked with the counter-locking element (10), and wherein the insert part (3) has a connection area (6) for connecting to a media line, characterized in that the spring-elastic locking element (8) and the counter-locking element (10) extend circumferentially over at least a partial area.so that the locking connection between locking means (8) and counter-locking means (10) can be separated by a rotation through a predetermined angle to each other.

Description

"Connection device for media lines" The invention relates to a connection device for media lines, with at least one coupling element, wherein the coupling element has at least one connection opening and at least one fluid channel. Connection devices for media lines are known in the prior art in a variety of designs. In such connection devices, the connection openings serve to connect the fluid channel of the connection device to a media line. For example, so-called press-fit cartridges are inserted into such connection openings of a coupling element; these cartridges are firmly connected to the coupling element within the connection opening and provide a connection interface for a media line. DE 601 11 522 T2 discloses a coupling device for connecting an end piece to a component. The device comprises a receiving sleeve (female part) and a bushing slidable therein, which is equipped with a locking element for fixing it in a locked or unlocked position. Stop elements are provided on the bushing, which interact with an annular bead on the end piece and, depending on the position of the bushing, secure or release the end piece. The design allows for simple and reliable connection and disconnection without additional tools. The term "media line" generally refers to pipe connections for any flowing and / or pressure media, such as gases or liquids. Media lines are essentially pipes or hoses and their connecting elements that are part of a system for conveying a medium. Such media lines are typically made of plastic. Connection devices for media lines are usually pre-configured for the respective application and have predefined interfaces for media lines on the coupling element. Once a connection device is configured for a specific application, no further adjustments can be made. Furthermore, a large number of specialized individual components must be kept in stock for each configuration, which increases the effort required for warehousing and logistics. The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a connection device that ensures increased flexibility with regard to adaptation to different application requirements as well as easy assembly. The aforementioned problem is solved by a connection device for media lines according to the characterizing part of claim 1. The connection device comprises at least one coupling element and at least one insert. The coupling element has at least one connection opening and at least one fluid channel. The insert is at least partially detachably inserted into the connection opening and has a connection interface for connecting to a media line. The insert further comprises at least one, in particular radially elastic, locking element. The coupling element has a first counter-locking element on an outer circumference that at least partially surrounds the connection opening, wherein the locking element can be locked or is locked to the counter-locking element. The connection device for media lines is used in particular for connecting different media lines or for connecting one or more media lines to a unit. The coupling element has at least one connection opening, preferably two or three, and in particular a plurality of connection openings. Each connection opening is connected to one or more common fluid channels or to a single fluid channel, so that an insert part placed in the connection opening, in particular the connection interface of the insert part, is connected to the fluid channel(s). The connection opening is essentially cylindrical, in particular with at least two different inner diameters. For example, the connection opening is designed as a cylindrical recess with a constant diameter. The inner walls of the connection opening are, in particular, parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, starting from an access point to the connection opening – the first end region of the connection opening – the connection opening initially has a section with a first diameter and a first depth, in particular where the first depth corresponds to half the total depth. A second section with a smaller diameter then follows in the longitudinal direction of the connection opening, so that a circumferential step – a first stop surface – is formed between the first section and the second section.Opposite the access to the connection opening, i.e. in the second end area of ​​the connection opening, the connection opening is limited, for example, by a bottom that leads in particular into the fluid channel. The fact that the insert is "removable" into the connection opening means that the insert is not secured within the connection opening and is held in place solely by the acting sealing and contact forces. The insert can be removed from the connection opening without damage, and in particular, it can be completely removed from the coupling element without damage. The connection interface of the insert serves to connect the insert, and thus also the fluid channel connected to the connection area of ​​the insert, to a media line. The connection interface includes, in particular, means for a sealing connection to a pipe or hose. Specifically, the connection area is designed to receive a connector plug for a media line that corresponds to the connection interface. To hold the insert in the connection opening during assembly, the insert has at least one spring-loaded locking element that can be connected to a first counter-locking element arranged on an outer circumference of the coupling element that at least partially surrounds the connection opening. Preferably, the counter-locking element is rigid, so that to create a locking connection, preferably a positive locking connection, only the spring-loaded locking element, in particular the radially spring-loaded locking element, moves outwards. The locking element preferably has at least one, and in particular a plurality, locking projections that engage with the counter-locking element in a locking manner. The locking element is arranged on the outer circumference of the coupling element such that it is positioned in an area on the outer circumference surrounding the connection opening, i.e., within the inner area of ​​which the connection opening extends. The insert therefore overlaps the coupling element at least partially and locks into place outside the connection opening. Consequently, the insert is connected to the coupling element outside the connection opening. The insert part, which is placed in the connection opening and connected to the coupling element, therefore forms a connection interface with specific properties for connecting a media line to the coupling element. The present invention has the advantage over the prior art that, firstly, the flexible and movable locking element is provided only on small, replaceable components and not, for example, on the coupling element itself. This saves on manufacturing costs, and secondly, in the event of damage, it is sufficient to replace the component without having to replace the coupling element. Furthermore, the present invention offers the advantage that the inserts with different connection areas can be selected depending on the application, allowing the coupling element to be equipped with different, non-destructively removable inserts at each connection opening, making the coupling element highly flexible and modularly configurable. According to a first advantageous embodiment of the connection device, the coupling element has at least one sleeve-like section, the sleeve-like section surrounds at least part of the connection opening, and the locking element is arranged on the outer circumference of the sleeve-like section. The sleeve-like section is particularly designed as a projecting collar, with at least part of the connection opening extending within the collar. Due to the sleeve-like design, the insert can easily and at least partially engage the coupling element, allowing the spring-loaded locking element to connect with the locking element. The sleeve-like section preferably extends from the access point to the connection opening to a predetermined depth, for example, three-quarters of the depth or the full depth of the connection opening. It is provided that the first locking means and the counter-locking means extend circumferentially over at least one partial area, preferably over a plurality of partial areas on the circumference, so that the locking connection between the locking means and the counter-locking means can be separated by a relative rotation about a predetermined angle, in particular an angle of 90° to each other. The flexible locking element and the counter-locking element can be connected by inserting the insert into the connection opening, whereby the first locking element engages with the counter-locking element. To release the connection between the locking element and the counter-locking element, a relative rotation is performed between them, specifically by an angle of 90°, so that the first locking element and the counter-locking element are rotated out of engagement with each other, allowing the insert to then be removed from the connection opening. The locking element and the counter-locking element then slide past each other on different circumferential surfaces. For this purpose, it is provided that no protrusions are formed between the sections where the locking element and counter-locking element are located that would restrict movement. According to a further embodiment of the connection device, it is provided that the counter-locking means has a first locking projection with a first locking area extending at least partially circumferentially, and that the first locking projection has a locking distance in the longitudinal direction from an end face surrounding the connection opening, preferably that the first locking projection has a first radial height, particularly preferably that the first locking projection has a second locking area circumferentially opposite the first locking area. The locking element on the outer circumference of the coupling element has at least one first locking projection, which extends partially into a first locking area and, in particular, partially into a second locking area on the opposite side. The first locking projection thus comprises two sub-areas on the outer circumference. The first locking projection has a first predefined distance from the end face surrounding the access to the connection opening, i.e., the first end region of the connection opening. Starting from the direction of the access to the connection opening, the first locking projection initially has an insertion ramp and a radially oriented locking surface adjoining the insertion ramp, in particular with a first radial height. The second locking area is preferably identical to the first locking area, except that it is located on the opposite side of the circumference of the coupling element.Preferably, the first detent area of ​​the first detent projection and the second detent area of ​​the first detent projection each extend over about a quarter of the circumference of the coupling element, so that, for example, the detent means of the insert can be led out between the first detent area and the second detent area after a rotation by a predetermined angle in order to remove the insert from the connection opening. Particularly for safety reasons, a further embodiment of the connection device has proven advantageous if the counter-locking means has a second locking projection with a first locking area extending at least partially circumferentially, and if the second locking projection has a second longitudinal distance from an end face surrounding the connection opening, preferably if the second locking projection has a second radial height, and especially preferably if the second locking projection has a second locking area circumferentially opposite the first locking area. The second detent projection, or rather the first detent area of ​​the second detent projection and the second detent area of ​​the second detent projection, are therefore arranged parallel to the detent areas of the first detent projection, resulting in a two-stage detent for the insert: first, engagement with the first detent projection to achieve a pre-detent position, and then, upon further insertion into the connection opening, engagement with the second detent projection, specifically the first detent area and the second detent area of ​​the second detent projection, to achieve a full detent position. When the spring-loaded detent element of the insert is engaged with the second detent projection of the mating detent element, the insert is fully inserted into the connection opening. Preferably, the first locking projection has a smaller radial height than the second locking projection. In particular, the first longitudinal distance from the end face surrounding the connection opening is smaller than the second longitudinal distance from the end face. To achieve the pre-engagement position, the locking element of the insert engages the first locking projection on the coupling element. In embodiments with different radial heights of the first and second locking projections, the assembly forces required to engage the first locking projection are lower than those of the second due to the smaller radial height of the first locking projection compared to the second. For the pre-locking position, the locking element and the first locking projection are designed such that the locking connection remains intact even when the maximum fluid pressure of the system, e.g., a vehicle brake, is present within the fluid channel. Preferably, leakage paths are defined in the coupling element, particularly in the connection opening, especially via leakage recesses, which allow a predefined pressure loss from the fluid channel in the pre-locking position. Preferably, the pressure loss is designed such that the functionality of the system, for example, a vehicle brake, is maintained despite the pre-locking position and pressure loss. It is also preferably provided that the fluid escaping in the pre-locking position generates a noise indicating that the connection is not fully engaged. To achieve the fully engaged position, the locking element must engage the second locking projection. In certain embodiments, a greater assembly force is required due to the larger radial height of the second locking projection compared to the first. In the fully engaged position, i.e., when the locking element of the insert is engaged with the second locking projection of the mating locking element, the predefined, full holding forces are achieved for the locking connection, ensuring a complete seal. Because the first locking projection and the second locking projection are arranged completely parallel to each other, the insert can be removed from the connection by simply rotating the locking element of the insert relative to the counter-locking element by a predetermined angle. The variability of the connection device can be increased, in particular according to a further embodiment, by the fact that the insert part has at least one retaining ring and at least one insert part base body, that the retaining ring surrounds the outer circumference of the coupling element at least partially in the area of ​​the connection opening, and that the spring-elastic locking means is formed on the retaining ring, in particular at least two, in particular three on each side, spring-elastic locking means are formed opposite each other on the circumference of the retaining ring. The insert body is preferably the part of the insert that can be inserted into, or is inserted into, the connection opening. The retaining ring preferably remains completely outside the connection opening and at least partially overlaps the outer circumference of the coupling element in the area of ​​the connection opening. The spring-elastic locking element of the insert is formed on the retaining ring, in particular on an inner circumference of the retaining ring, so that it can interact with the counter-locking element arranged on the outer circumference. The spring-elastic locking element is designed on the retaining ring such that it can deflect radially outwards to establish a locking connection with the rigid counter-locking element, in particular by temporarily increasing the radius of the retaining ring in the area of ​​the locking element. Preferably, at least two spring-elastic locking elements are provided opposite each other on the circumference of the retaining ring. This allows the retaining ring, with each locking element, in particular a plurality of locking lugs, to engage in and interact with the locking areas of the first and second locking projections of the opposing locking element. The opposing arrangement of the two spring-elastic locking elements ensures that the retaining ring is held evenly on the coupling element. According to a further embodiment, the interaction between the insert body and the retaining ring is improved by the retaining ring having a retaining collar, in particular extending over its entire circumference, so that the retaining collar can exert a force in the axial direction of the connection device on the insert body, thereby fixing the insert body with the retaining ring in the connection opening, and / or by the insert body having at least one locking element for positive locking with the retaining ring, preferably having two locking hooks arranged opposite each other on the circumference of the insert body. The inner diameter in the area of ​​the retaining collar is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of a corresponding contact area, in particular a retaining projection, on the insert body. The locking hooks are formed on the end region of the insert body facing the retaining ring. When the retaining ring is applied, the locking hooks, particularly together with at least part of the insert body, initially deflect radially inwards and / or the retaining ring temporarily deforms in order to then engage positively with the retaining ring, particularly in the area of ​​the retaining collar, so that the retaining ring and the insert body are joined together. According to a further embodiment, it has also proven advantageous if the retaining ring and the insert base are formed in one piece. The retaining ring and the insert base are thus manufactured as a single component, which increases stability. According to a further embodiment of the connecting device, the retaining ring has a retaining ring base body, in particular a sleeve-like one, that the retaining ring base body has at least two longitudinal slots arranged next to each other on the circumference, that the longitudinal slots extend at least over a part of the longitudinal extent of the retaining ring base body, and that the locking means is formed at least partially between the longitudinal slots, preferably that at least six or eight longitudinal slots are arranged opposite each other on the circumference in two longitudinal slot groups, particularly preferably that at least one locking lug is formed as part of the locking means between two longitudinal slots, in particular a longitudinal slot group. The longitudinal slots make the area of ​​the retaining ring base material between the slots locally flexible, allowing at least the area between the slots to move, for example outwards, to engage the locking mechanism. Specifically, within each group of longitudinal slots, a locking lug is formed between two slots as part of the locking mechanism. All locking lugs, together with all their flexible areas, constitute the locking mechanism of the insert, which can be engaged with the mating locking mechanism on the coupling element. To prevent, in particular, the unintentional removal of the insert from the connection opening due to a relative rotation of the first locking element relative to the counter-locking element, one embodiment provides for at least one removable clamping element that prevents relative rotation between the locking element and the counter-locking element. The removable clamping element mechanically blocks relative rotation between the locking element and the counter-locking element, so that without removing the clamping element, removal of the retaining ring and thus of the insert is blocked. The relative rotation between the locking element of the insert and the counter-locking element is advantageously prevented according to a further embodiment by arranging at least one removable clamping element in an annular gap between the retaining ring and the outer circumference of the coupling element, preferably by arranging two removable clamping elements opposite each other on the circumference, and by arranging the clamping element(s) preventing rotation of the locking element relative to the counter-locking element. Alternatively, the retaining ring is provided with at least one clamping area on its inner circumference with a locally reduced diameter, such that the clamping area prevents the spring-elastic locking element from rotating relative to the counter-locking element. Preferably, the retaining ring has two opposing clamping areas on its inner circumference, each with a locally reduced inner radius. Because the clamping element(s) or clamping area are inserted into the annular gap between the retaining ring and the outer circumference of the coupling element, the space between the first locking area and the second locking area of ​​the first and second locking projections of the counter-locking element is filled, thereby preventing relative rotation of the first locking element relative to the counter-locking element and thus preventing the insert from being removed from the connection opening.The retaining ring with clamping area or clamping areas cannot therefore be released by a relative rotation, but only by releasing the locking connection between locking means and counter-locking means in the opposite direction to the assembly process. According to a further embodiment, for holding the clamping elements, it is provided that the retaining ring, in particular in the outer wall of the retaining ring base body, has a number of recesses corresponding to the number of clamping elements, in particular rectangular recesses, and that the clamping element is held in the recess in a form-fitting manner, at least partially, in particular that the retaining ring has a guide means for the clamping element in an outer wall, and that the clamping element can be guided in the retaining ring in a form-fitting manner with the guide means. The clamping element has, for example, at least one locking lug that engages in the recess and, in particular, interacts with at least one edge of the recess in such a way that the clamping element is held in the radial gap between the retaining ring and the coupling element. To remove the clamping element(s) and subsequently to remove the insert from the connection opening, the clamping element is released through the recess and pushed out of the annular gap longitudinally. A guide is provided in the outer wall to guide the clamping element, ensuring, in particular, that the clamping element is held in a predetermined position in the annular gap. In particular, for fastening a plug in the connection interface of the insert part, a further embodiment has proven advantageous if it is provided that the insert part has at least one, in particular sleeve-like, insert part base body, that the insert part base body has at least two radially flexible retaining arms extending longitudinally from the insert part base body at a first end side, so that the connection interface is designed as a plug receptacle for interaction with a connector of a media line, in particular that at least one locking projection is formed on each of the retaining arms. The connection area is formed within the essentially sleeve- or cylinder-shaped insert body. Two retaining arms, preferably formed integrally with the insert body, are attached to a first end region of the insert body. Advantageously, these retaining arms can flexibly extend radially outwards at their end region facing away from the insert body to receive a connector body and subsequently secure it. Preferably, at least four, at least six, or at least eight flexible retaining arms are formed on the insert body. Advantageously, each retaining arm has at least one locking projection that can interact with a corresponding locking recess on the connector. Preferably, to increase the reliability of the connection between a connector and the connection interface of the insert, a further embodiment provides for more than two retaining arms, and for the locking projections on two adjacent retaining arms to have different longitudinal distances from the first end face of the insert body. The locking projections thus alternately have different distances to the first end face of the insert body, namely a larger and a smaller distance. This allows different locking stages of a connector to be implemented in the insert body using the retaining arms: a pre-locking stage and a full locking stage with the locking projections having the larger longitudinal distance. For example, the locking projections with smaller spacing in the longitudinal direction have a lower height than the locking projections with larger spacing in the longitudinal direction. To achieve the pre-lock position, the locking projections of the retaining arms engage in a locking recess on the connector specifically designed for the pre-lock position. In the pre-lock position, the locking projections are designed to ensure that the locking connection remains intact even at maximum system pressure within the fluid channel. Preferably, leakage paths are defined in the insert, particularly at the connection interface, especially via leakage recesses, which allow a predefined pressure drop from the fluid channel in the pre-lock position. Preferably, the pressure drop is designed to maintain the functionality of the system, for example, a vehicle brake, despite the pressure loss. It is also preferred that the fluid escaping in the pre-lock position generates a noise indicating an incompletely inserted connection. To achieve the fully engaged position, the locking lugs spaced further apart must engage in a corresponding recess on the connector. In certain embodiments, a greater assembly force is required due to the varying heights of the locking lugs, particularly the greater height of the more distant ones. In the fully engaged position, the predefined, full holding forces are achieved for the locking connection, ensuring a complete seal. In particular, to define the penetration depth of the insert into the connection opening, a further embodiment provides that the insert, preferably the insert body, has a circumferentially arranged first retaining projection for bearing against an end face of the connection opening and / or a circumferentially arranged second retaining projection for bearing against a contact surface arranged in the connection opening. Each retaining projection, individually or in combination, limits the axial movement of the insert into the connection opening. To prevent fluid from escaping through the annular gap between the insert and the connection opening, a preferred embodiment provides that the insert has at least one circumferential seal on its outer circumference. Advantageously, at least one groove is provided in the outer circumference of the insert or the insert body, which is designed to receive a sealing ring, in particular an O-ring. In the case of an insert body formed integrally with the retaining ring, a seal is provided on a first shoulder and secured against loss by at least one small projection on the outer circumference of the insert or the insert body. Another embodiment provides that the insert comprises at least one mandrel-like support section for entry into a pipe at least at its end, a circumferential toothed ring for securing the pipe, and a release element for releasing the connection between the toothed ring and the pipe. The connection interface of the insert, thus designed, can directly accommodate the end of a pipe and seal it. To release the connection, the release element is pushed longitudinally towards the toothed ring, causing the toothed ring to deform elastically and releasing the clamping force on the pipe. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the connection device, the connection opening has a plurality of longitudinally extending leakage recesses on its inner circumference in the first end region, and / or the connection opening has at least one step between two different inner diameters, and a plurality of longitudinally extending leakage recesses are provided on the smaller diameter at the step. Depending on the position of seals within the connection opening, leakage recesses are thus provided to form a leakage path, so that any unintentionally escaping fluid is visibly and / or audibly directed to the outside. It has also proven particularly advantageous if, according to a further embodiment, the coupling element is designed as a connector block or angle with at least two connection openings each, or as a T-piece with at least three connection openings, or as a coupling with a sleeve-shaped body and connecting mandrel. Furthermore, an insert part for use in a connection opening of a coupling element is disclosed, in particular according to one of the previously described embodiments, in that the insert part has a spring-elastic locking means, and that the insert part can engage an outer circumference of a coupling element, so that the locking means can be locked with a counter-locking means arranged on the outer circumference. Furthermore, an insert body for an insert for insertion into a connection opening of the coupling element is disclosed, in particular for an insert according to one of the previously described embodiments. The insert body is sleeve-shaped and has a connection interface for connecting to a media line, in particular a connector of a media line. Starting from a first end face, the insert body has at least two longitudinally extending retaining arms, in particular wherein the retaining arms are radially flexible. Furthermore, a retaining ring for an insert is disclosed, in particular for fixing the insert in a connection opening of a coupling element, especially for a connection device as described above, wherein the retaining ring is characterized by at least one flexible locking element on an inner circumference for interacting with a counter-locking element arranged on an outer circumference of a coupling element. The retaining ring is further configured according to one of the embodiments described above. Preferably, the components of all the aforementioned embodiments, in particular the insert part, namely the retaining ring and / or the insert part base body, are made of a plastic, especially a glass fiber reinforced plastic. Advantageously, the coupling element is made of polybutylene terephthalate with 30% glass fibers (PBT GF30) and / or the insert part is made of polyamide 12 with 30% glass fibers or polyamide 11 with 30% glass fibers and / or the insert part base body is made of polyamide 12 with 30% glass fibers or polyamide 11 with 30% glass fibers and / or the retaining ring is made of polyamide 12 with 30% glass fibers or polyamide 11 with 30% glass fibers. Furthermore, a coupling element for receiving at least one insert part is disclosed, particularly according to one of the previously described embodiments, with at least one connection opening. On an outer circumference surrounding the connection opening, at least one first locking projection extending at least over a first locking area of ​​the outer circumference is provided for interaction with a radially acting, spring-elastic locking element, wherein the first locking projection has a first longitudinal distance to an end face surrounding the connection opening. Furthermore, the coupling element is configured according to one of the previously described embodiments. In particular, it is provided that the coupling element has at least one connecting pin for connecting a line. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the figures and the dependent subclaims. The figures show: Fig. 1 an embodiment of a connection device in a sectional side view, Fig. 2 another embodiment of a connection device in a sectional side view, Fig. 3 another embodiment of a connection device in a perspective view, Fig. 4 the embodiment according to Fig. 3 in a sectional view, Fig. 5 the embodiment according to Fig. 3 in an exploded view, Fig. 6 the embodiment according to Fig. 3 in a top view, Fig. 7 the retaining ring according to Fig. 3 in a first sectional view, Fig. 8 the retaining ring according to Fig. 3 in a second sectional view, Fig. 9 another embodiment of a connection device in a perspective view, Fig. 10 the embodiment according to Fig. 9 in a sectional view, Fig. 11 the embodiment according to Fig. 9 in an exploded view, Fig.Fig. 12 shows the retaining ring according to Fig. 9 in a first sectional view, Fig. 13 shows the retaining ring according to Fig. 9 in a second sectional view, Fig. 14 shows the retaining ring according to Fig. 9 in a perspective view, Fig. 15 shows the embodiment according to Fig. 9 in a top view, Fig. 16 shows another embodiment of a connection device in a perspective view, Fig. 17 shows the embodiment according to Fig. 16 in a sectional view, Fig. 18 shows the embodiment according to Fig. 16 in an exploded view, Fig. 19 shows an embodiment of an insert base body according to the embodiment in Fig. 16, Fig. 20 shows the embodiment of an insert base body according to Fig. 19 in a sectional view, Fig. 21 shows the retaining ring according to Fig. 16 in a perspective view, Fig. 22 shows the retaining ring according to Fig. 21 in a first sectional view, and Fig. 23 shows the retaining ring according to Fig. 21 in a second sectional view. In the various figures of the drawing, identical parts are always labelled with the same reference symbols. The following description claims that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and not to all or several features of the described combinations of features; rather, each individual partial feature of the exemplary embodiment(s) is also significant for the subject matter of the invention, independent of all other partial features described in connection therewith, both on its own and in combination with any features of another exemplary embodiment. Figures 1, 2, 3, 5, 9, and 16 each show an embodiment of a connection device 1 for media lines (not shown) with at least one coupling element 2 and at least one insert 3. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the coupling element 2 has three connection openings 4 and a fluid channel 5 and is designed as a T-connector. The embodiment shown in Figure 2 has two connection openings 4, and the embodiments shown in Figures 5, 9, and 16 each have one connection opening 4. The inserts 3 are inserted into the connection openings 4 in a way that allows for at least partial detachment, with each insert 3 having a connection interface 6 for connecting to a media line. The coupling element 2 has at least one counter-locking means 10 on the outer circumference 9 which partially surrounds the connection opening 4, wherein a spring-elastic locking means 8 is locked with the counter-locking means 10. In the insert parts 3 shown above and to the right in Fig. 1, and in the insert parts 3 shown below in Fig. 2, as well as in Figs. 9 and 16, the connection interface 6 is designed as a plug receptacle for the exemplary inserted connector plugs 7. The insert parts 3 also each have the spring-loaded locking element 8. In the insert part 3 shown on the left in Fig. 1, as well as in the insert part shown above in Fig. 2 and the insert part 3 shown in Fig. 3, the connection interface 6 is designed as a terminal connection for a cable and is described elsewhere. Figures 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 17, and 18 show a sleeve-like section 11 that surrounds the connection opening 4 longitudinally, i.e., in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The counter-locking element 10 is arranged on the outer circumference 9 of the sleeve-like section 11. Figures 1, 4, 5, 10, 11, 17, and 18 show that the counter-locking element 10 has a first locking projection 12 with a first locking area 12a and a second locking area 12b, and a second locking projection 13 with a first locking area 13a and a second locking area 13b. The first locking areas 12a, 13a and the second locking areas 12b, 13b are located opposite each other on the outer circumference 9 of the coupling element 2, in particular on the sleeve-like section 11. The first detent projection 12 has a shorter longitudinal distance to an end face 14 surrounding the connection opening 4 than the second detent projection 13 has to the end face 14. The distance is always measured at the radial detent surface of the respective detent projection 12, 13. In addition, the first detent projection 12 has a lower radial height than the second detent projection 13. According to Figs. 1, 4, 10, and 17, the insert 3 comprises at least one retaining ring 15 and at least one insert base body 16. The retaining ring 15 overlaps the outer circumference 9 of the coupling element 2 at least partially, so that the spring-elastic locking element 8 can be engaged with the retaining ring 15 and the counter-locking element 10, namely the first locking projection 12 and the second locking projection 13. Pre-locking is achieved with the locking element 8 and the first locking projection 12, and full locking is achieved with the locking element 8 and the second locking projection 13 of the counter-locking element 10. Figures 6, 7 to 8 show the embodiment of the retaining ring 15 according to Figures 3, 4 to 5 in a top view and in two different sectional views offset by 90° from each other. The retaining ring 15 has a continuous retaining collar 17, with which, in the assembled state, a force in the longitudinal direction, i.e., parallel to the longitudinal axis L, can be exerted on the insert part 3, in particular the insert part base body 16 (see Figures 1, 4 and 17), whereby the retaining ring 15, which is engaged with the counter-locking means 10, holds the insert part 3 in the connection opening 4. According to Figs. 1, 4, 5, 16, 17 and 18, the insert part 3, in particular the insert part base body 16, has an insertion locking device 18 in the form of two locking hooks 18a arranged opposite each other on the circumference of the insert part base body 16. The locking hooks 18a engage the retaining collar 17 in a form-fitting manner to connect the retaining ring 15 to the insert part base body 16. According to Figs. 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 22 and 23, the retaining ring 15 has a sleeve-like retaining ring base body 19, which in these embodiments has eight longitudinal slots 20 arranged side by side around its circumference. The longitudinal slots 20 extend over approximately 90% of the height of the retaining ring base body 19. The locking element 8 has the longitudinal slots 20 and locking lugs 21 arranged between the longitudinal slots. The locking lugs 21 of the spring-elastic locking device 8 are oriented such that the retaining ring 15 with its open end 22 can be at least partially slid onto the sleeve-like section 11 of a coupling element 2, wherein the locking lugs 21 of the locking device 8 engage with the counter-locking device 10 in the form of the first locking projection 12 and the second locking projection 13 (see in particular Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 4, Fig. 10 and Fig. 17). The eight longitudinal slots 20 are divided into two groups of longitudinal slots 23 as shown in Figs. 3, 5, 8, 9, 11, 16, 18 and 23, such that the locking element 8 has three locking lugs 21 next to each other in a longitudinal slot group 23 on the circumference opposite each other. Because the locking lugs 21 are arranged between the longitudinal slots 20, the material between the longitudinal slots 20 can deflect radially outwards due to the longitudinal slots 20 together with the locking lugs 21 in a spring-like manner in order to lock with the counter locking element 10 (see in particular Figs. 1, 4, 10 and 17). Figures 9, 10, and 11 show an embodiment of a connecting device 1 in which the retaining ring 15 and the insert body 16 are formed integrally. Figures 12, 13, and 14 show an embodiment of an insert 3 with a retaining ring 15 formed integrally with the insert body 16. To prevent relative rotation of the spring-elastic locking element 8, in particular the first locking projection 12 or the second locking projection 13, with respect to the counter-locking element 10, two opposing clamping elements 25 are provided in an annular gap 24 (see Fig. 2 below) between the retaining ring 15 and the outer circumference 9 of the coupling element 2. These clamping elements are shown separately in Figs. 14 and 21. The semi-shell-shaped clamping elements 25 at least partially fill the annular gap 24, and in particular the area between the first locking areas 12a, 13a and the second locking areas 12b, 13b (see, for example, Fig. 18), thereby preventing relative rotation. As an alternative to the clamping elements 25, according to the embodiment shown in Figs. 3, 4 to 5, two clamping areas 26 with a locally reduced radius at least on the inner circumference are provided on the retaining ring 15, so that the clamping areas 26 fill the spaces between the first locking areas 12a, 13a and the second locking areas 12b, 13b (see, for example, Fig. 5) in such a way that relative rotation about the longitudinal axis of the connection device 1 of the first locking element 8 relative to the counter-locking element 10 is prevented. This also reliably blocks the removal of the insert part 3 from the connection opening 4. The embodiments with the clamping elements 25 according to Figs. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 to 14 show that the retaining ring 15 has a number of recesses 27 corresponding to the number of clamping elements 25, in this embodiment two recesses 27, and that the clamping elements 25 each have a detent projection 28 which can be positively locked into the recess 27 in order to hold the clamping element 25 in the annular gap 24. Furthermore, the retaining ring 15, according to Figs. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 to 14, has guide means 29 (see in particular Fig. 13) arranged opposite each other in the outer wall for the clamping element 25, which guide the clamping element 25 in a positive locking manner and hold it in position, in particular on a guide projection 30 corresponding to the guide means 29. Fig. 1, Fig. 4 and Fig. 18 each reveal a two-part insert 3, namely with an insert base body 16 and a separate retaining ring 15, which are positively connected to each other with locking hooks 18a. Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 show an insert base body 16 formed in one piece with the retaining ring 15, wherein the insert base body 16 is essentially identical to the insert base body 16 described below as a separate part. Figures 19 and 20 show, in separate illustrations, an insert base body 16 for an insert, for example according to Figures 1, 4, and 18. The insert base body 16 has eight radially flexible retaining arms 32 extending longitudinally from its first end face 31, each retaining arm 32 having a locking projection 33 as shown in Figures 1, 2, 10, 12, 13, 17, and 20. The locking projections 33 on the retaining arms 32 are configured such that locking projections 33a of the first type, located at a shorter distance from the first end face 31, are arranged alternately next to locking projections 33b of the second type, located at a greater distance from the first end face 31 of the insert base body 16. The locking projections 33a of the first type and locking projections 33b of the second type can be implemented for a connector 7 that can be inserted into the connection interface 6 of the insert part 3 (shown by way of example in Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 9, Fig. 9, Fig. 10 to Fig. 11 and Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. 18) in two locking stages, namely a pre-locking stage in which only the locking projections 33a of the first type lock, and a full locking stage in which only the locking projections 33b of the second type lock. According to Figs. 1, 4, 17, 19 and 20, the insert part 3, in particular the insert part base body 16, has a circumferentially arranged retaining projection 34 for bearing against an end face 14 of the connection opening 4 and a second circumferentially arranged retaining projection 35 for bearing against a stop surface 36 arranged in the connection opening 4. Furthermore, in the embodiments of Figs. 1, 4 and 17, the first retaining projection 34 serves to interact with the retaining collar 17 of the insert part base body 16. According to Figs. 1, 2, and 17, the insert part 3 or the insert part base body 16 has a groove 37 for receiving a seal 38. The embodiment shown in Fig. 2 below, in which the retaining ring 15 and the insert part base body 16 are formed in one piece, has a shoulder 40 on which the seal 38 is held. Here, the seal 38 is held on the shoulder 40 by a projection 41 extending over part of its circumference. The insert parts 3 according to Fig. 1 left, Fig. 2 top, and Fig. 4 each have a mandrel-like support section 42, which is designed for at least partial insertion into the end section of a cable (not shown), and a toothed ring 43 for securing the cable by clamping it circumferentially. The insert part 3 also includes a release element 44, which is displaceable parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toothed ring 43 and serves to release the clamping between the toothed ring 43 and a cable by elastically deforming the toothed ring 43. The support section 42, the toothed ring 43, and the release element 44 are held in the insert part base body 16. The insert part 3 also includes a guide body 45, which snaps into the insert part base body 16 and can be fully inserted into the connection opening 4. The guide body 45 also has the groove 37 for the seal 38.The insert 3 also has a main seal 46 that can be placed against the pipe and a dirt seal 47 arranged on the inlet side. The main seal 46 is held in position by an insert ring 48, which also clamps the toothed ring 43 against the insert body 16. According to Fig. 1, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 11, Fig. 17 and Fig. 18, the coupling element 2 has a plurality of longitudinally extending leakage recesses 49 at the connection opening 4, namely on the inner circumference in the area of ​​access to the connection opening 4. As shown in Fig. 1, a plurality of longitudinally extending leakage recesses 51 are also provided on the smaller diameter of the connection opening 4 at a shoulder 50, which forms the stop surface 36. The leakage recesses 49, 51 form a leakage path that allows fluid to escape in the event of inadequate assembly or a defective seal. According to Figs. 11, 12 to 13 and 18, 19 to 20, the insert part 3 or the insert part base body 16 has a plurality of circumferentially arranged first leakage recesses 53 on a first inner circumference 52 of the connection interface 6 and a plurality of circumferentially arranged second leakage recesses 55 in a second inner circumference 54 to form a leakage path. According to Fig. 2, the coupling element 2 is designed as a connector block with two connection openings 4. According to Fig. 1, the coupling element 2 is designed as a T-connector with three connection openings 4. According to the embodiments shown in Fig. 3, Fig. 9 and Fig. 16, the coupling element 2 is designed with a sleeve-shaped body and a connecting mandrel 39 connected to the fluid channel 5. The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated and described, but also encompasses all embodiments that have the same effect within the meaning of the invention. It is expressly emphasized that the embodiments are not limited to all features in combination; rather, each individual feature can also have inventive significance independently of all other features. Furthermore, the invention is not yet limited to the combination of features defined in claim 1, but can also be defined by any other combination of specific features from all disclosed individual features. This means that, in principle, virtually any individual feature of claim 1 can be omitted or replaced by at least one individual feature disclosed elsewhere in the application. Reference symbol list 1 Connection device 2 Coupling element 3 Insert part 4 Connection opening 5 Fluid channel 6 Connection interface 7 Connector plug 8 Locking means 9 Outer circumference 10 Counter-locking means 11 Sleeve-like section 12 First locking projection 12a First locking area of ​​12 12b Second locking area of ​​12 13 Second locking projection 13a First locking area of ​​13 13b Second locking area of ​​13 14 End face 15 Retaining ring 16 Insert part base body 17 Retaining collar 18 Insert locking means 18a Locking hook 19 Retaining ring base body 20 Longitudinal slots 21 Locking lug 22 Open end of 15 23 Longitudinal slot group 24 Annular gap 25 Clamping element 26 Clamping area 27 Recesses 28 Locking projection 29 Guide means 30 Guide projection 31 First end of 16 32 Retaining arm 33 Locking projection 33a Detent projection of the first type 33b Detent projection of the second type 34 Holding projection 35 Holding projection 36 Stop surface 37 Groove 38 Seal 39 Connecting pin 40 Shoulder 41 Projection 42 Support section 43 Toothed ring 44 Release element 45 Guide body 46Main seal 47 Dirt seal 48 Insert ring 49 Leakage recess 50 Shoulder 51 Leakage recess 52 First inner circumference 53 Leakage recess 54 Second inner circumference 55 Leakage recess L Longitudinal axis

Claims

Connection device (1) for media lines, with at least one coupling element (2), wherein the coupling element (2) has at least one connection opening (4) and at least one fluid channel (5), wherein at least one insert part (3) is provided, wherein the insert part (3) can be at least partially detachably inserted into the connection opening (4), wherein the insert part (3) has at least one spring-elastic locking element (8), wherein the coupling element (2) has a first counter-locking element (10) on an outer circumference (9) that at least partially surrounds the connection opening (4), wherein the locking element (8) can be locked with the counter-locking element (10), and wherein the insert part (3) has a connection area (6) for connecting to a media line, characterized in that the spring-elastic locking element (8) and the counter-locking element (10) extend circumferentially over at least a partial area.so that the locking connection between locking means (8) and counter-locking means (10) can be separated by a rotation through a predetermined angle to each other. Connection device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling element (2) has at least one sleeve-like section (11), that the sleeve-like section (11) at least partially surrounds the connection opening (4), and that the counter-locking means (10) is arranged on the outer circumference (9) of the sleeve-like section (11). Connection device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the spring-elastic locking means (8) and the counter-locking means (10) extend circumferentially over a plurality of partial areas and / or that the locking connection between locking means (8) and counter-locking means (10) can be separated by a rotation through a predetermined angle of 90°. Connection device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the counter-locking means (10) has a first locking projection (12) with a first locking area (12a) extending at least partially circumferentially, and that the first locking projection (12) has a first longitudinal distance from an end face (14) surrounding the connection opening (4), preferably that the first locking projection (12) has a first radial height, particularly preferably that the first locking projection (12) has a second locking area (12b) circumferentially opposite the first locking area (12a). Connection device according to claim 3, characterized in that the counter-locking means (10) has a second locking projection (13) with a first locking area (13a) extending at least partially circumferentially, and that the second locking projection (13) has a second longitudinal distance from an end face (14) surrounding the connection opening (4), preferably that the second locking projection (13) has a second radial height, particularly preferably that the second locking projection (13) has a second locking area (13b) circumferentially opposite the first locking area (13a). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the insert part (3) has at least one retaining ring (15) and at least one insert part base body (16), that the spring-elastic locking means (8) is formed on the retaining ring (15), preferably that the retaining ring (15) surrounds the outer circumference (9) of the coupling element (2) at least partially in the area of ​​the connection opening (4), particularly preferably that at least two spring-elastic locking means (8) are formed opposite each other on an inner circumference of the retaining ring (15). Connection device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the retaining ring (15) has a retaining collar (17), in particular a full-circumference one, and that a force in the longitudinal direction can be exerted on the insert base body (16) with the retaining collar (17), so that the insert base body (16) can be fixed with the retaining ring (15) in the connection opening (4) and / or that the insert base body (16) has at least one locking means (18) for locking with the retaining ring (15), preferably two locking hooks (18a) arranged opposite each other on the circumference of the insert base body (16). Connection device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the retaining ring (15) is formed integrally with the insert body (16). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the retaining ring (15) has a retaining ring base body (19), in particular a sleeve-like retaining ring base body, that the retaining ring base body (19) has at least two longitudinal slots (20) arranged next to each other on the circumference, that the longitudinal slots (20) extend at least over a part of the longitudinal extent of the retaining ring base body (19), and that the locking means (8) of the insert part (3) is formed between the longitudinal slots (20), preferably that at least six or eight parallel longitudinal slots (20) are arranged opposite each other on the circumference in two longitudinal slot groups (23), particularly preferably that at least one locking lug (21) is formed between two longitudinal slots (20), in particular a longitudinal slot group (23). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by at least one removable clamping means, wherein the clamping means prevents a relative rotation between locking means (8) and counter-locking means (10). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that at least one clamping element (25) is arranged in an annular gap (24) between retaining ring (15) and outer circumference (9) of the coupling element (2), preferably two clamping elements (25) are arranged, and that the clamping element (25) prevents a rotation of the locking means (8) relative to the counter locking means (10), or that the retaining ring (15) has at least one clamping area (26) with a locally reduced radius on at least an inner circumference, so that the clamping area (26) prevents a rotation of the locking means (8) to the counter locking means (10). Connection device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the retaining ring (15) has a number of recesses (27) corresponding to the number of clamping elements (25), and that the clamping element (25) is retained at least partially in the recess (27) in a form-fitting manner, in particular that the retaining ring (15) has a guide means (29) for the clamping element (25) in an outer wall, and that the clamping element (25) can be guided in the retaining ring (15) in a form-fitting manner with the guide means (29). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the insert part (3) has at least one, in particular sleeve-like, insert part base body (16), that the insert part base body (16) has at least two retaining arms (32) extending longitudinally from the insert part base body (16), in particular radially flexible, so that the connection area (6) is designed as a plug receptacle for interaction with a connector plug (7) of a media line, in particular that at least one locking projection (33) is formed on each of the retaining arms (32). Connection device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that more than two retaining arms (32) are formed, and that the locking projections (33) on two adjacent retaining arms (32) have a different distance in the longitudinal direction to the first end side (31). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the insert part (3) has a circumferentially arranged first retaining projection (34) for bearing against an end face (14) of the connection opening (4) and / or a circumferentially arranged second retaining projection (35) for bearing against a stop surface (36) arranged in the connection opening (4). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the insert part (3) has at least one seal (38) on an outer circumference. Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the insert part (3) has at least one mandrel-like support section (42) for entry into a line, at least one toothed ring (43) for fixing a line, and at least one release element (44). Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the connection opening (4) has a plurality of longitudinally extending leakage recesses (49) on its inner circumference in a first end region, and / or that the connection opening (4) has at least one shoulder (50) between two different inner diameters, and that a plurality of longitudinally extending leakage recesses (51) are provided on the inner circumference at the shoulder (50) on the smaller inner diameter. Connection device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the coupling element (2) is designed as a connector block with at least two connection openings (4) or as a T-piece with at least three connection openings (4) or as a coupling with a sleeve-shaped body and connecting mandrel (39).

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