Component comprising pipe and container and method for producing the same

Abstract

The invention relates to a component comprising a container and a pipe and is preferably used in automotive engineering. The container has a container wall made of a first plastic material, which at least partially defines the receiving space of the container. The tube consists of at least one metallic base layer and a first plastic layer made of a second plastic material, which are arranged adjacent to one another. The tube is connected to the container wall in a first connection area, wherein the connection is preferably designed to be form-fitting and / or materially bonded. Starting from the first connection area, the tube extends at least partially into the receiving space. The invention also includes a method for producing such a component.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a component comprising a container and a tube, wherein the container comprises a container wall containing a first plastic material, which at least partially delimits a receiving space of the container, and wherein the tube has a metallic base layer and a first plastic layer containing a second plastic material. The tube is connected to the container wall in a first connecting region, wherein the tube extends at least partially into the receiving space from the first connecting region. Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method for producing such a component.

[0002] Plastic containers are used in numerous fields. In the automotive industry, these are primarily tanks for fuel or for storing other liquids, which results from their relatively simple design, low weight, and corrosion resistance. An example of such a container, along with a suitable manufacturing process, can be found in DE 10 2017 130 747 A1.

[0003] GB 23 88 087 A describes a polymer container with a support for securing an element, such as a filter. Below this support is a supporting structure integrated into the container, which supports the element from below, particularly when the container deforms under heat.

[0004] A container with an integrated conduit inside is known, for example, from WO 2008 / 061588 A1. This document describes a hollow body in which a conduit is directly connected, at least in sections, to the inner wall of this hollow body.

[0005] Similarly, DE 102 41 286 A1 describes a polyolefin component in which a plastic pipe is connected to a container. The connection is constructed in two parts to ensure both high strength and a sufficient diffusion barrier.

[0006] A two-layer connection is also described in US Pat. No. 8,303,877 B2 for connecting a sleeve to a container for liquids. This sleeve can then be used to secure a pipe, for example.

[0007] In view of the increased environmental requirements for motor vehicles, it is becoming increasingly important to provide a design for these plastic containers that is not only individually tailored to the respective vehicle type, but above all enables the most compact and thus ultimately weight-saving construction possible. Tank containers in particular have previously required the routing of lines, pipes, etc., around the tank, requiring additional material and space, both of which contradict the goal of weight reduction. At the same time, the high safety requirements for tank containers must be ensured by appropriate resistance to the effects of large forces or high temperatures.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a plastic container which enables a more compact design while at the same time providing high mechanical and thermal stability.

[0009] This object is achieved by a component having the features of claim 1, which defines such a component by a container and a pipe.

[0010] The container, which is preferably used as a tank for liquids, for example, in the automotive industry, is formed by a container wall containing a first plastic, which at least partially defines a receiving space of the container. In particular, but not exclusively, a closed receiving space is advantageous for use as a tank, where "closed" means that the receiving space is completely defined and thus enclosed by the container wall and other recesses.

[0011] The pipe has a metallic base layer and a first plastic layer containing a second plastic. The metallic layer ensures the necessary mechanical and thermal robustness. The metallic layer allows the pipe to be dimensioned smaller than a pipe without a metallic layer while maintaining the same mechanical stability, resulting in a larger usable volume in the receiving space. At the same time, the metallic base layer ensures easy plastic deformability of the pipe to adapt to necessary routing through possibly complex containers, as well as to shield cables, lines, or other components that may be routed through the pipe.

[0012] According to the invention, the tube is connected to the container wall in a first connection area, wherein the tube extends from the first connection area at least partially into the receiving space. This enables the integration of tubes into a container. The connection in the first connection area creates a stable unit, while the tube utilizes the receiving space of the container to ensure a compact design. It is then possible to either conduct fluids through this tube or to use the tube for cable routing. The flexible placement of the cable outlets at any point in the container enables versatile use and integration of electronic components for various applications.The protected and inconspicuous routing of the cables not only achieves a more compact design, but also partially improves the aesthetic appearance and ensures the functionality and safety of the electronic systems, as they are protected from contamination and thus remain functional over the long term. In addition, the positioning within the container ensures external protection of the cables, which leads to increased safety.

[0013] The potential applications of this innovative tank system are diverse. Among the possible areas of use are, above all, cable routing to devices that require power and / or data. Power-supplied lighting, which is typically located near a tank, includes position lights for improved visibility and safety in traffic, entry lights or illuminated steps to facilitate access to vehicles or other structures and prevent accidents, indicators in the fenders to clearly signal changes of direction and increase road safety, headlights in the front tank for optimized illumination of the surroundings in dark or poorly lit areas, and indicators or taillights on the rear carrier tank to improve visibility and thus vehicle safety.Lamp brackets on the fender to attach additional light sources for various purposes, e.g. to illuminate the work area and luminous logos on the container for brand presentation or as an additional safety feature to make the vehicle more visible at night.

[0014] It is essential to the invention that the connection area is fluid-tight. In this sense, "fluid-tight" is defined as the ability of a material or connection to form a barrier that is sufficiently impermeable for technical purposes against the penetration or escape of gases and liquids.

[0015] The connection of the container and the pipe in the connection area, through which the component according to the invention is formed, can be made in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner.

[0016] "Positive fit" refers to a connection between a vessel and a pipe in which the shape of the parts involved is designed to interlock or interlock. This type of connection relies on mechanical fit and geometric shaping, which secures the parts in position. Positive fit connections are characterized by their high strength and rigidity, as they rely not only on external forces but also on the geometric fit of the parts. They are often used in applications where a reliable and precise connection is required.

[0017] In the present invention, the form-fitting connection is achieved by molding the two plastic layers of the container wall and the pipe. Therefore, thermoplastics are preferably used as plastics for a form-fitting connection.

[0018] The term "material bond" refers to a connection between two or more components in which the materials of the parts involved are fused or bonded together. This type of connection is based on the chemical bond or interaction between the materials, creating a strong and permanent connection. Material bonded connections are characterized by their high strength and tightness, as the materials are fused together to form a homogeneous structure. They are often used in applications that require high load-bearing capacity and resistance to external influences. Material bonded connections within plastic assemblies primarily include direct connections, which in the broadest sense can be understood as a polymer bond between two plastics. Adhesive bonds and sintered bonds are also generally included in this definition.

[0019] During welding, the plastic parts to be joined are locally heated until they become plastic. They are then pressed together so that the molecules of the two parts mix and form a homogeneous bond as they cool. This process can be carried out using various methods such as friction welding, ultrasonic welding, or hot air welding. The formation of a material-to-material bond by welding is particularly preferred in the case of the present invention, as it can be produced easily and reliably in this application.

[0020] When bonding plastics, special adhesives or bonding compounds are used that form a strong chemical bond with the plastic surfaces. These adhesives penetrate the pores and microstructures of the surfaces and form a permanent bond when they cure. Selecting the right adhesive is crucial for the quality and durability of the bond.

[0021] While welding or bonding involves joining two prefabricated plastic components, sintering involves providing only one prefabricated plastic component, with the second plastic component being produced using a sintering process and sintered in situ to the prefabricated component. This method also allows for the creation of a material-to-material bond.

[0022] Finally, some plastics can react with each other to form a bond. This occurs through chemical reactions in which the plastic molecules link together to form a strong and permanent bond. This type of bond often requires special formulations or additives to initiate and control the reaction.

[0023] Particularly preferred is a connection that is both form-fitting and material-locking, which can be achieved in particular by a manufacturing technique in which the container wall is either initially formed or deformed in the connection area, as this makes the connection particularly durable. A connection that results in both a form-fitting and a material-locking connection is particularly preferred, with the material-locking connection being formed by welding or a reaction between at least one plastic layer of the pipe and the plastic of the container wall.

[0024] Not necessarily, but preferably, the outer wall and / or the inner wall of the pipe contains the first plastic layer, since in this way, especially in the case of the outer wall, the area in direct contact with the container wall is particularly large, whereby a particularly good connection can be established.

[0025] A preferred embodiment also provides, above all, that the pipe has two connection areas to the container wall, so that, in particular, in a first connection area, the pipe enters the receiving space through the container wall, is guided through it, and reconnects to the container wall at another point in a second connection area. By guiding the pipe, preferably at least partially spaced from the container wall, which is to be understood as meaning that the pipe is guided freely through the receiving space, the pipe can be guided as directly as possible over a short path in the interests of weight-reducing construction.

[0026] In one embodiment, the container wall has a wall layer made entirely of the first plastic. Alternatively or additionally, the first plastic layer of the pipe consists entirely of the second plastic. The use of pure plastic in the container wall and the first plastic layer helps to simplify material selection and ensure compatibility between the various components of the component. This enables efficient manufacturing and assembly as well as a homogeneous structure of the component. The use of different plastics for the container wall and the pipe layer enables a tailored selection according to the requirements for corrosion resistance, durability, and mechanical strength.

[0027] It has also proven very practical for the first plastic and / or the second plastic to be polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyamide. This is because the use of polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyamide as the material for the plastic layers offers high resistance to chemical substances and good mechanical strength, which increases the longevity and reliability of the component.

[0028] The advantage of using the same plastic is that it often results in a very good bond. Alternatively, however, the first plastic, which is used for the container wall, can be different from the second plastic, which forms a plastic layer of the pipe. This is particularly useful when different requirements are placed on the two plastics, such as contact with different fluids. To achieve a good bond, it can be useful in this alternative for both plastics to be similar, as would be the case, for example, with the use of two different polyethylenes, so that a good bond is still created.In some cases, similar but not identical plastics can also be produced by forming the container wall and the first plastic layer by separate processes, although these do not necessarily have to be different processes.

[0029] With respect to the part of the vessel wall adjacent to the joint area and the pipe at this point, an angle of 10° to 170°, preferably 80° to 100°, has proven particularly favorable. The specific orientation of the vessel relative to the pipe in the joint area contributes to ensuring optimal structural rigidity and joint strength. A suitable angle enables efficient load distribution and minimizes potential stress peaks, resulting in improved component durability.

[0030] Regardless of the specific design, it has proven advantageous if the first plastic layer is bonded to the container wall in the first connection area, which is particularly true for a material-to-material connection. This connection, especially in the form of a material-to-material connection, between the first plastic layer of the pipe and the container wall in the connection area ensures high strength and tightness of the connection. This reduces the risk of leaks and increases the reliability of the component, especially under demanding operating conditions.

[0031] An alternative or supplementary embodiment provides for the tube to extend outside the receiving space, starting from the first connection area. The continuation of the tube outside the receiving space enables better accessibility and expanded connection options. This also allows for flexible design and positioning of the component depending on the application requirements. This improves the versatility and possible uses of the component in different contexts and environments.

[0032] It has also proven advantageous if the first plastic layer is arranged on a radially outer or radially inner side of the base layer. It is particularly advantageous if the first plastic layer is arranged on a radially outer side of the base layer and forms an outer surface of the pipe, or if the first plastic layer is arranged on a radially inner side of the base layer and forms an inner surface of the pipe. The specific arrangement of the first plastic layer with respect to the base layer enables precise control of the physical and mechanical properties of the component.For example, external placement of the plastic layer can improve corrosion resistance to fuels or other filling media contained in the receiving space, while internal placement improves corrosion resistance to fluids conveyed through the pipe and / or increases structural strength. The positioning of the plastic layer also allows for control of the connection point or connection zone (from the pipe's perspective) where an indirect or direct, preferably material-to-material, connection to the container wall is established.

[0033] The connection zone is understood to be the area of ​​the pipe in which the pipe is in direct contact with at least one adjacent element, or - in other words - the connection point between the pipe and an adjacent element. If the pipe is in contact with an adjacent element with its radially outer surface, this connection point is referred to as a radially outer connection zone. If the pipe is in contact with an adjacent element with its front end, this connection point is referred to as an end-face connection zone. If the pipe is in contact with an adjacent element with its radially inner surface, this connection point is referred to as a radially inner connection zone. The adjacent elements can be the container wall or one of the elements explained below.It is possible that one or two or three of the above-mentioned connection zones are formed in a connection area.

[0034] In the case of a preferably complementary material-to-material bond, this is understood as a direct connection between the plastic of the pipe and a plastic of the adjacent element, such as the plastic of the container wall, either through polymerization of these two plastics with each other or through direct welding or sintering of the two plastics. In other words, in this case, the connection zone contains only plastics from the plastic layer of the pipe and the adjacent element, such as the container wall, or a polymer mixture formed from monomers of these two plastics, but no other plastics, thus precluding a material-to-material bond by adhesive bonding at this point.

[0035] A further preferred embodiment provides for the tube to have a second plastic layer containing a third plastic. This second plastic layer is preferably arranged on the side of the metallic base layer facing away from the first plastic layer. This creates a sandwich structure in which the metallic base layer is embedded between the two plastic layers. The use of a second plastic layer enables further adaptation of the mechanical and chemical properties of the component.

[0036] The arrangement of the metallic base layer on the side facing away from the first plastic layer improves the adhesion and stability of the component, as connections can also be made to this layer. This is the case when the second plastic layer is bonded, in particular by a material bond, to an adjacent element, in particular the container wall, in at least one connection zone.

[0037] The preferably material-to-material bond between the second plastic layer, especially with the container wall, ensures high strength and tightness of the joint. This improves the reliability of the component and minimizes the risk of leaks or material fatigue.

[0038] It is particularly advantageous if the plastic layer completely covers the metallic base layer on its radially inner and / or outer sides. This provides particularly reliable protection against corrosion for the metallic layer.

[0039] One or more adhesion promoter layers can be provided between the base layer and the first plastic layer and / or between the base layer and the second plastic layer. This can increase the stability of the bond between the base layer and the respective plastic layer.

[0040] It has also proven advantageous to incorporate aluminum or copper into the metallic base layer. The use of aluminum or copper as the material for the metallic base layer offers high thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance, which contributes to improved performance and durability of the component. Aluminum, in particular, is also a very lightweight material, which further supports the goal of reducing vehicle weight.

[0041] In addition, an adhesion-promoting layer and / or a connecting element can be provided at least partially between the container wall and the pipe. By using a connecting element, functionalities in the area of ​​the connection between the container and the pipe, such as threads or additional stiffeners, can be integrated. If, on the other hand, an additional adhesion-promoting layer is incorporated between the container wall and the first plastic layer of the pipe, this improves the adhesion and stability of the connection. A combination of connecting element and adhesion-promoting layer is particularly important, with the connecting element forming or comprising the adhesion-promoting layer, especially since this creates a material-to-material connection not only between the container wall and the pipe, but also to the connecting element.This contributes to improved durability of the component, especially under demanding operating conditions. The connecting element can be made of a metallic material and embedded in the connection area of ​​the container wall. Alternatively, the connecting element can be made of a fourth plastic. In this case, the connecting element can also be integrally bonded to the container wall and / or to the first and / or second plastic layer of the pipe.

[0042] The connections between the container wall and the pipe explained above and below may also be at least partially indirect connections with the interposition of a connecting element and / or an adhesion-promoting layer. Two indirectly connected elements shall also be considered to be firmly bonded if a firm bond exists between at least one of the elements and the connecting element or the adhesion-promoting layer.

[0043] At this point, it should be emphasized once again that each embodiment of the invention provides at least one (radially outer, end-face, or radially inner) connection zone according to the above definition between the pipe and the container wall and / or the connecting element or the adhesion-promoting layer. It is possible, but not necessary, for a total of two or three connection zones to be present in one connection area. If the pipe has an inner and / or an outer plastic layer, a material-to-material, in particular direct, connection can also be formed in at least one connection zone between at least one plastic layer of the pipe, on the one hand, and the container wall and / or the connecting element or the adhesion-promoting layer, on the other hand.

[0044] If the pipe is open at at least one first end associated with the first connection area, a connection, in particular a fluid-effective connection, with a connecting part or the introduction of another component into the pipe is possible. This increases the versatility and adaptability of the component in various application scenarios, particularly in fluid power systems.

[0045] In addition, the tube can have a branch line, which is connected to the tube at a proximal end, particularly in a fluid-effective manner. The tube thus has a branch at the connection point with the branch line. The arrangement of a branch line on the tube enables branched fluid or cable routing within the component. This expands the functionality and possible applications of the component, particularly in systems that require complex fluid control or cabling.

[0046] A variant in which a section of the branch line spaced apart from the proximal end is connected to the container wall in a third connection area may also be advantageous, with the branch located inside the container, i.e., the receiving space. This allows for the creation of a highly complex component in which the number of connection areas between the tube(s) and the container wall is minimized.

[0047] Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for producing a component having the features according to one of claims 1 to 15.

[0048] For this purpose, a container and a pipe are provided, whereby "provision" encompasses both the use of a prefabricated container and the in-situ production of the container within the scope of the method according to the invention. In both cases, the container has a container wall containing a first plastic, and the pipe has at least one first plastic layer containing a second plastic, as well as a metallic base layer. The method according to the invention provides that the pipe and the container wall are connected to one another in at least one connection region.

[0049] This process enables efficient production of the described component, taking into account the specific material and design requirements. Precise control of the manufacturing parameters ensures high quality and consistency of the final product.

[0050] In principle, the process can be carried out by manufacturing the container using a rotational molding process.

[0051] In the rotational molding process, which is often used to manufacture plastic containers, the molding is carried out using a rotary tool. A specific amount of plastic material in the form of powder, pellets, or micropellets is poured into a hollow rotational mold, the inner surface of which defines the outer surface of the final plastic container. The rotational mold is then rotated about two perpendicular axes while heat is applied to melt the plastic material and adhere it to the inner wall of the mold. Thermoplastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA), and polycarbonate (PC) are typical materials used in this process, although the processing temperatures must be above the melting or softening temperatures of the respective material.

[0052] In the method according to the invention, the tube is fixed in or on a hollow tool. The container is then provided by the rotational molding process. For this purpose, a starting material containing the first plastic or convertible into the first plastic is poured into the hollow tool, and the container is formed in the hollow tool by the rotational process described above. At the same time, the tube and the container wall of the in-situ formed container are connected to one another in at least one connecting region.

[0053] As an alternative to rotational molding, the container and tube can also be manufactured using a blow molding process, which is also a widely used method for producing hollow plastic parts such as bottles, containers, and other hollow bodies. Blow molding involves placing a hollow plastic preform in a hollow tool that defines the shape of the desired product. The preform is inflated in a plastically deformable state by internal pressure, where it adheres to the inside of the hollow tool and assumes the desired shape of the final product, and is then cooled.

[0054] In extrusion blow molding, the preform is an extruded plastic tube (Parison) which is squeezed at both ends by closing the hollow tool and then inflated using a previously inserted blow mandrel.

[0055] In injection blow molding, the preform is an injection-molded hollow body (preform) that is open only on one side. This process can be further improved by axially stretching the preform before blow molding (injection stretch blow molding). The material is then stretched not only circumferentially but also axially, resulting in an improvement in the material properties through biaxial orientation of the polymer chains.

[0056] In both variants of the blow molding process, temperature control of the plastic material is crucial to ensure consistent wall thickness and strength of the final product. The blow molding process is widely used due to its efficiency and versatility.

[0057] Regardless of the manufacturing process used to provide the container, the pipe and the container wall are connected to each other in at least one connecting area.

[0058] The use of hollow tools in conjunction with rotational or blow molding processes enables efficient and precise production of the component with minimal material loss. This leads to improved production output and cost efficiency. Furthermore, the positive connection between the two components, the container and the pipe, is particularly good, as the container is manufactured practically around the connection point. At the same time, the manufacturing process can heat at least one plastic layer of the pipe to such an extent that the plastics of the pipe and the container wall sinter or fuse in the connection area, thus forming a particularly strong, integral connection.

[0059] Alternatively, the process is carried out by providing the container with an opening, either by using a suitable container or by first manufacturing a container with an opening provided in the container wall. This opening will later serve to guide the pipe through the container wall.

[0060] In the second step, the tube is inserted into the container wall through the previously created opening. This requires precision to ensure the tube is correctly positioned and has a good fit with the opening.

[0061] In the third step, the pipe and the container are joined in a joining area that encompasses the opening. In this joining area, a connection is created between the pipe and the container wall, creating a bonding area between the two components. This bonding area ensures the structural integrity and tightness of the component. If a material-to-material bond is desired, this connection can be achieved through local heating, which results in welding. If at least one of the plastics is a thermoplastic, this can also create a deformation that forms a positive connection.

[0062] This process enables precise and reliable manufacturing of the component, creating a robust connection between the pipe and the container to ensure optimal performance and functionality.

[0063] Finally, the invention also includes the use of the component according to one of claims 1 to 15 as a tank, in particular in the field of automotive engineering.

[0064] Further developments, advantages, and possible applications of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. All described features, individually or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their summary in the claims or their reference to one another.

[0065] They show: Fig. 1a the component according to the invention in a front view, Fig. 1 b the component according to the invention in a sectional view, Fig. 1 c in a transparent perspective view, Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b the component according to the invention in 2D sections, Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b the component according to the invention in 2D sections, Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b the component according to the invention in 2D sections, Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b the component according to the invention in 2D sections, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b the component according to the invention in 2D sections and Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b the component according to the invention in 2D sections.

[0066] The Fig. 1a to 1c show the component according to the invention in its use as a tank or canister, as it can be used, for example, in the vehicle sector. Fig. 1a shows a front view. Fig. 1b shows a section through the component along the Fig. 1a, the section plane designated 1b. A container 2 is defined by a container wall 3 and the receiving space 4 delimited by this container wall. This receiving space 4 can, in particular, accommodate liquids, which can be filled and removed through a nozzle 7. The container may have additional connections or functional elements.

[0067] At least one pipe 5 also runs through the component and is connected to the container wall in a connecting area 6 in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner.

[0068] Fig. Figure 1c shows the component 1 according to the invention in a transparent and perspective view. It is particularly clearly visible that the tube 5 is guided through the receiving space 4 of the container 2, with areas where the tube 5 is not adjacent to the container wall 4, but rather is spaced apart from the container wall 3.

[0069] In addition, two preferred embodiments are included in the illustration. Firstly, Fig. 1c a complete routing of the pipe 5 through the receiving space from a first connecting region 6 to a second connecting region 6. In the case of open pipe ends, cables, lines or fluids can thus be guided from one point on the container wall 3 through the container 2 to another point on the container wall 3. Independently of this, the pipe 5 also connects the respective wall sections of the container wall 3 assigned to the first connecting region 6 and the second connecting region 6 to one another and effects a structural reinforcement or stiffening of the container 2. On the other hand, two pipes 5 are guided through the container 2, whereby several cable or fluid guides through the receiving space 4 are enabled at the same time and several reinforcement elements are provided.

[0070] The Fig. 2 to 7 are initially described together below. They show - for different embodiments of the component 1 - enlarged sectional views of a section of the component 1 comprising a (first or second) connection area 6 in a Fig. 1b with II-VII designated area, whereby the representations in the Fig. 2 to 7 opposite Fig. 1b are rotated 90° clockwise. The ones marked with the index “a” Fig. 2a to 7a each show the component 1 during its manufacture as well as a mold shell 8 and a retaining bolt 9 as components of a hollow tool used to manufacture the component 1. The figures marked with the index "b" Fig. 2b to 7b show the same section of the corresponding component 1 after removal from the hollow tool.

[0071] The Fig. 2a to 7a show a section of the component 1 according to the invention during production. The container wall 3 is formed on the mold shell 8. The mold shell 8 is a component of a hollow tool used in this process to mold the plastic material. The hollow tool typically consists of two or more mold shells 8, which are designed such that, when the hollow tool is closed, they jointly define the desired shape of the container 3, for example, a tank. The hollow tool can be a blow mold for use in a blow molding process or a rotational melt mold for use in a rotational molding process.

[0072] The rotational molding process begins with the filling of the starting material containing the first plastic or convertible into it into the hollow tool. The closed hollow tool is then set in motion, usually by rotation about two perpendicular axes. During the rotation process, the starting material is evenly distributed over the inner wall of the hollow tool. Due to the rotation, the material adheres to the inside of the mold shell 8, creating a uniform wall thickness and the shape of the container wall 3. The starting material also adheres to the pipe 5, at least in the area of ​​the connecting section 6.

[0073] It is possible for the tube 5 to be embedded in the container wall 3 or the first plastic only in the connection area 6 and for it to extend in the finished component 1 outside the connection area 6 without being coated with the first plastic in the container. However, it is also possible for the tube 5 to be coated with the first plastic of the container wall 3 over its entire extension within the container 2. While the plastic material is being formed and cured in the hollow tool, the temperature is controlled to ensure that the material acquires its desired mechanical properties. After curing, the hollow tool is opened and the finished product is removed. The hollow tool is then prepared for the next production cycle.

[0074] To manufacture the component 1 according to the invention, the tube 5 can be held in the hollow tool by a retaining bolt 9. The tube 5 can be plugged or screwed onto the retaining bolt 9 or otherwise, even indirectly, releasably connected to the retaining bolt 9, wherein the retaining bolt 9 is in turn releasably fastened to the mold shell 8 by means of fastening means (not shown). After the component 1 has been manufactured, the retaining bolt 9 is released from the tube 5 so that the component 1 can be removed from the opened hollow tool.

[0075] According to Fig. 2a, the pipe 5 rests with a front end against the mold shell 8 during the production of the component 1, so that the starting material and the resulting container wall 3 only come into contact with an outer side of the pipe 5 in a radially outer connection zone 6a. Fig. Figure 2b shows the finished component 1, preferably manufactured according to the described method, wherein the tube 5 according to a preferred embodiment comprises two plastic layers 5a, 5c, between which a metallic base layer 5b is arranged, which, regardless of the respective embodiment, preferably consists predominantly of aluminum and copper. One of the Fig. 2b corresponding embodiment with only one plastic layer - 5a or 5c - is also possible.

[0076] Fig. 2b shows the connection area 6, which is basically defined by the fact that here the pipe 5 is connected to the container wall 3, directly and / or indirectly. Fig. Figure 2b shows a preferred embodiment in which there is direct contact between at least one plastic layer 5a, 5c of the pipe and the container wall 3 in the connecting region 6 in the radially outer connection zone 6a.

[0077] The embodiment according to the Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b largely corresponds to that according to the Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b. Reference is made to the above description. Deviating from this, Fig. 3a, a front end of the tube 5 is spaced from the mold shell 8 during the manufacture of the component 1, so that the starting material and the resulting container wall 3 comes into contact with the outside of the tube in the outer connection zone 6a and additionally in a second, front-side connection zone 6b with a front side of the tube 5 - and there preferably with all layers of the tube 5. In the Fig. 3a and Fig. In the (preferred) construction of the pipe 5 shown in Fig. 3b, there is therefore in particular direct contact between the container wall 3 and both plastic layers 5a, 5c of the pipe. In the area of ​​the outer connection zone 6a, there is contact with the plastic layer 5c, and in the front connection zone 6b, there is contact with the plastic layer 5a and the plastic layer 5c. One of the Fig. A design corresponding to 3b with only one plastic layer - 5a or 5c - is also possible.

[0078] The Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b show a component 1 in which an insert in the form of a connecting element 10 engages in the pipe 5 and is connected to both the pipe 5 and the container wall 3. In Fig. 4a shows the situation during production using the mould shell 8 and the retaining bolt 9, while Fig. 4b shows the finished component 1. According to Fig. 4a, the front end of the tube 5 rests against a contact surface of the connecting element 10 during the manufacture of the component 1, so that the starting material and the container wall 3 resulting from it only come into contact with the outside of the tube 5 in the radially outer connection zone 6a. The connecting element 10 remains as an insert in the finished component 1. In the front connection zone 6b, the front side of the tube 5 is in contact with the connecting element 10, and in a third, radially inner connection zone 6c, an inside of the tube 5 is in contact with the connecting element 10. The connecting element 10 can be made of a metallic material or of a fourth plastic and can be embedded in the container wall 3 in the connection area 6.If the connecting element 10 is made of the fourth plastic, the connecting element 10 can be integrally connected to the container wall 3 and / or to the first and / or second plastic layer 5a, 5c of the pipe 5. One of the . Fig. A design corresponding to 4b with only one plastic layer - 5a or 5c - is also possible.

[0079] The embodiment according to the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b corresponds largely to that according to the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b. Reference is made to the above description. Deviating from this, the connecting element 10 is at least partially provided with an adhesion-promoting layer 11, which is arranged in the finished component between the connecting element 10 and the pipe 5 or between the connecting element 10 and the container wall 3 and is connected, in particular by a material bond, to the container wall 3 and / or to the first and / or second plastic layer 5a, 5c of the pipe 5. One of the Fig. A design corresponding to 5b with only one plastic layer - 5a or 5c - is also possible.

[0080] The embodiment according to the Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b corresponds largely to that according to the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b. Reference is made to the above description. Deviating from this, Fig. 6a, the front end of the pipe 5 is spaced from the connecting element 10 during the manufacture of the component 1, so that the starting material and the resulting container wall 3 come into contact with the outside of the pipe in the outer connection zone 6a and additionally with the front side of the pipe 5 in the front connection zone 6b - and there preferably with all layers of the pipe 5. In the Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b, there is therefore in particular direct contact between the container wall 3 and both plastic layers 5a, 5c of the pipe. Thus, in the outer connection zone 6a, there is contact with the plastic layer 5c, and in the front connection zone 6b, there is contact with the plastic layer 5a and the plastic layer 5c. Due to the additional use of a connecting element 10, an area is created in which the container wall 3 connects both to the pipe 5 and to two sides of the connecting element 10, and this formation also forms a very reliable form-fitting connection between the container wall 3, pipe 5, and connecting element 10. One of the Fig. 6b corresponding embodiment with only one plastic layer - 5a or 5c - is also possible.

[0081] The Fig. 7a and Fig. 7b correspond in their basic structure to the Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b, but here, as in the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b, an additional adhesion-promoting layer 11 is provided to enable a material bond between the container wall 3 and the connecting element 10 and / or between the connecting element 10 and the first and / or second plastic layer 5a, 5c of the pipe 5. One of the Fig. An embodiment corresponding to 7b with only one plastic layer - 5a or 5c - is also possible. List of reference symbols 1 component 2 containers 3 Container wall 4 Recording room 5 pipe 5a Plastic layer 5b metallic base layer 5c plastic layer 6 Connection area 6a radial outer connection zone 6b frontal connection zone 6c radial inner connection zone 7 nozzles 8 mold shell 9 retaining bolts 10 connecting element 11 Adhesion layer

Claims

[1] Component (1) comprising a container (2) and a tube (5), wherein the container (2) comprises a container wall (3) containing a first plastic, which at least partially delimits a receiving space (4) of the container (2), wherein the tube (5) has a metallic base layer (5b) and a first plastic layer (5a, 5c) containing a second plastic, wherein the tube (5) is connected in a fluid-tight manner to the container wall (3) in a first connecting region (6), wherein the tube (5) extends at least partially into the receiving space (4) starting from the first connecting region (6). [2] Component (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the container wall (3) has a wall layer which consists entirely of the first plastic, and / or that the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the pipe (5) consists entirely of the second plastic. [3] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the first plastic and / or the second plastic is or are a polyethylene, a polypropylene or a polyamide. [4] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the tube (5) extends through the receiving space (4) of the container (2) and is connected to the container wall (3) in a second connecting region (6). [5] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least in the first connecting region (6) the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the pipe (5) is connected to the container wall (3). [6] Component (1) according to claim 5, characterized by that in the first connection area (6) the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the pipe (5) is materially and directly connected to the container wall (3). [7] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the tube (5) extends from the first connecting region (6) outside the receiving space (4). [8] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the tube (5) is arranged on a radially outer or a radially inner side of the metallic base layer (5b). [9] Component (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the pipe (5) is arranged on a radially outer side of the metallic base layer (5b) and forms an outer surface of the pipe (5) or that the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the pipe (5) is arranged on a radially inner side of the metallic base layer (5b) and forms an inner surface of the pipe (5). [10] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the pipe (5) has a second plastic layer (5c, 5a) containing a third plastic, in particular consisting entirely of the third plastic, wherein the second plastic layer (5c, 5a) is preferably arranged on the side of the metallic base layer (5b) facing away from the first plastic layer (5a, 5c). [11] Component (1) according to claim 10, characterized by that the second plastic layer (5c, 5a) of the pipe (5) is connected to the container wall (3) in at least the first connection area (6), in particular in a materially bonded and direct manner. [12] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the metallic base layer (5b) contains aluminum or copper. [13] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a connecting element (10) and / or an adhesion-promoting layer (11) is or are provided at least partially between the container wall (3) and the first plastic layer (5a, 5c) of the pipe (5). [14] Component according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the pipe (5) is open at least at a first end associated with the first connecting region (6), wherein a connection, in particular a fluid-effective connection, with a connecting part or the passage of another component into the pipe (5) is possible. [15] Component (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the tube (5) has a branch strand which is connected to the tube (5) at a proximal end, in particular in a fluid-effective manner. [16] Method for producing a component (1) with the features according to one of claims 1 to 15, in which a container (2) and a tube (5) are provided, wherein the container (2) has a container wall (3) containing a first plastic and the tube (5) has a first plastic layer (5a, 5c) containing a second plastic and at least one metallic base layer (5b), and wherein the tube (5) and the container wall (3) are connected to one another in at least one connecting region (6). [17] Method according to claim 16, characterized bythat the tube (5) is fixed in or on a hollow tool and that the container (2) is provided in that a starting material containing the first plastic or convertible into the first plastic is filled into the hollow tool and that the container (2) is manufactured in the hollow tool by a rotation process or a blow molding process, wherein the tube (5) and the container wall (3) are connected to one another in at least one connecting region (6). [18] Method according to claim 16, characterized bythat the container (2) is manufactured in a first step with an opening in the container wall (3), in a second step the pipe (5) is guided through the opening in the container wall (3) into the container (2) and in a third step the pipe (5) and the container (2) are connected to one another in a joining region comprising the opening, so that at least one connecting region (6) is created between the pipe (5) and the container wall (3).

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