Coupling for connection to a nipple

Abstract

A coupling (1) for connection to a nipple (2) is described, comprising a tubular base body (3) with a wall (5) having recesses (6), clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) arranged in the recesses (6) and designed for positive coupling of the base body (3) to the nipple (2), and an actuating element (7). The coupling (1) is designed for the transmission of media through the coupling (1) and through the nipple (2). The clamping element (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) is in contact area (21a) on the actuating element (7) and in contact area (21b) on the nipple (2) when the coupling (1) is coupled to the nipple (2). The recesses (6) are each formed as an elongated hole (16) with a longitudinal extent in the axial direction (L) or in the circumferential direction (U) of the tubular base body (3).

Description

Technical field of the invention:

[0001] The invention relates to a coupling for connecting to a nipple with • a tubular base body with a wall that has recesses, • Clamping elements that are arranged in the recesses and designed for positive-locking coupling of the base body to the nipple, and • an actuating element, for example in the form of a tubular actuating sleeve.

[0002] The coupling is designed for the transmission of media through the coupling and through the nipple. When the coupling is connected to the nipple, the clamping element is in contact with the actuating element in one area and with the nipple in another.

[0003] Such couplings are frequently used to transfer gaseous and liquid media, especially lubricants such as greases, at separation and connection points of lubrication lines.

[0004] Commercially available couplings can usually be opened and closed with one hand and without tools. One component of the connection is often a nipple, which has an undercut on its outer surface in a clamping area. Suitable nipples are known as grease nipples or conical grease nipples, which are standardized according to DIN 71412. Another component of the connection is a coupling that positively engages the clamping area of ​​the nipple.

[0005] The coupling incorporates clamping elements that make contact with the undercut of the nipple. Depending on the pressure of the transmitted medium, a force is exerted on the connection, which is absorbed by the undercut in the clamping area and the clamping elements. The clamping elements are often designed as spheres and are arranged circumferentially in recesses in the wall of a tubular base body. The base body transmits the force from the spheres to the coupling. The coupling also frequently includes a sealing element that prevents the pressurized medium from escaping the connection. State of the art:

[0006] From GB 197436 A, couplings are known in which the clamping elements are designed as balls. An actuating sleeve moves the balls radially inwards towards the undercut of a nipple by means of the force of a spring. In a locked state of the coupling, the actuating sleeve prevents the balls from moving radially outwards by means of a positive locking mechanism.

[0007] German patents GB 574 983 A and GB 677 164 A disclose a coupling for grease guns with balls as clamping elements. There is no actuating sleeve; instead, the balls are pressed inwards into the clamping area by a spring. When the medium, in this case grease, is pressurized, it exerts a force on the balls in addition to the spring force. This also exerts a greater force on a sealing element, resulting in a tighter seal. In the locked position, the force of the spring and the pressure prevent the balls from moving radially outwards through frictional engagement.

[0008] WO 2013 177 696 A1 and US 2018 0313 495 A1 disclose a coupling in which the sealing element is shifted towards the coupling when connected to the nipple. An actuating sleeve is shifted towards the nipple and, in the locked state, prevents the balls from moving radially outwards by means of a positive fit.

[0009] US 2019 0120 413 A1 discloses a coupling in which the actuating sleeve is moved by means of a hand lever. In its initial position, the hand lever runs along the length of the coupling. When the hand lever is pushed transversely toward the coupling, the actuating sleeve moves forward against the force of a spring toward the nipple. This allows clamping elements to move radially outward to engage the nipple's clamping area within the coupling. The clamping elements are either balls or three-dimensionally shaped, segmented gripping or holding jaws that press against the undercut of the clamping area.

[0010] Further couplings with segment-shaped gripping or holding jaws as clamping elements are disclosed in EP 2 531 766 B1, EP 3 293 436 B1, EP 3 559 539 B1 and EP 3 388 726 B1. Purpose of the invention:

[0011] The invention is based on the objective of creating an improved coupling for transferring media. Solution to the problem:

[0012] The problem is solved by the coupling with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0013] The couplings according to the invention increase the number of contact points between the coupling components, such as clamping elements, the base body, and the nipple, through a specific coupling design. The proposed designs of the clamping elements and recesses, as well as the connecting webs in the base body, increase the number of contact points, thereby increasing the force transmission to the nipple and reducing wear. This solves the technical problem of increasing the efficiency and durability of the coupling.

[0014] The proposed coupling offers the possibility of achieving the following advantages in particular: a reduction of the coupling's tip diameter for improved accessibility to a grease nipple, an increase in load-bearing capacity at higher operating pressures, ergonomic operation with reduced actuation forces, and increased service life and wear resistance.

[0015] It is noted that the article "a" or "an" throughout the text simultaneously means "several." This means that the article "a" or "an" includes a plurality, and that what is mentioned in the plural throughout the text may simultaneously mean "individuals thereof." The reference numerals, position numbers, and figures placed in parentheses in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the claim and are not exhaustive. References or citations are generally not to be understood as limiting. It is noted that the described embodiments represent only some preferred embodiments of the present invention. All equivalent structures disclosed in this description and the appended claims fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0016] It is proposed that the recesses of the base body in which the clamping elements are arranged are each designed as an elongated hole with a longitudinal extent in the axial direction or in the circumferential direction of the tubular base body of the coupling.

[0017] This has the advantage that the maximum transmissible pressure of the medium can be increased, the installation space of the coupling can be reduced and / or the wear of the coupling and the nipple can be reduced.

[0018] The longitudinal extension direction of the slot refers to the longer extension of the slot compared to its narrower width.

[0019] The force exerted by the pressure of the medium on the connection between the coupling and the nipple results in a high contact stress in the contact area between the clamping elements and the nipple's undercut, depending on their geometry. The magnitude of this contact stress, or Hertzian contact pressure, limits the maximum transmissible pressure of the medium and can impair the coupling's load-bearing capacity, service life, and ease of use.

[0020] Depending on the country-specific standard, the nipples have an undercut that is conical or circumferentially concave or convex. In combination with clamping elements designed as balls, this results in a point contact for a single clamping element. Couplings known from the prior art have up to seven balls as clamping elements. Accordingly, the average Hertzian contact pressure per contact in this case is one-seventh of the total contact pressure.

[0021] If more balls are used, additional recesses for the balls are necessary. Between these recesses, webs remain in the base body, which are subjected to tensile stress due to the force exerted on the balls. Furthermore, during manual coupling and uncoupling of the coupling from the nipple, the webs can be subjected to uneven loading and bending stress in addition to tensile stress. Intensified by the notch effect, the mechanical stress on individual webs can thus significantly exceed the average tensile stress. Therefore, with a large number of recesses, the remaining cross-section of the webs limits the maximum transmissible pressure of the medium.

[0022] Using more balls with a smaller diameter increases the contact stress due to the smaller radius of curvature of the balls. Additionally, the wall thickness of the base body must be reduced so that the balls can protrude beyond the base body on the inside when pressed inwards by the actuating element on the outside.

[0023] Against this background, the invention proposes a coupling with the known features of a tubular base body with a wall having recesses with a clamping element in each recess, and an actuating element in the form of, for example, a tubular actuating sleeve. When the coupling is connected to the nipple, the clamping element rests in one contact area on the actuating element and in another contact area on the nipple.

[0024] Tubular in the sense of the present invention means that a body has a longitudinal extension and a continuous cavity along its longitudinal extension, leaving a wall surrounding the cavity. A ring-shaped body is thus suitable for conveying media or materials and / or fulfilling a structural function. The cross-section of the basic body is not predetermined by the term "tubular" and can have any geometric shape, including, but not limited to, circular, oval, rectangular, or polygonal. In particular, it can be a round tube that is cylindrical and has a cylindrical, concentric cavity. However, it is also conceivable that the tubular basic body is designed as a polygonal tube, such as a square tube, a pentagonal tube, a hexagonal tube, a heptagonal tube, an octagonal tube, etc. The tubular basic body is preferably rotationally symmetrical, e.g.,Tubular bodies are formed as circular tubes or square tubes in cross-section. The structure of a tubular body can be flexible or rigid and can vary in length, width, or thickness.

[0025] In one embodiment, the actuating element can be an actuating sleeve.

[0026] Because the recesses are designed as elongated holes with a longitudinal extension in the axial or circumferential direction, the contact area between the nipple and the clamping elements can be increased, particularly through a higher number of contact points. Furthermore, the webs of the base body can be dimensioned sufficiently strong even with a higher number of clamping elements arranged in the recesses compared to conventional couplings.

[0027] The elongated hole can extend longitudinally in the circumferential direction of the base body. One or more clamping elements are arranged side by side in a common elongated hole in the circumferential direction of the base body. Preferably, the clamping elements are arranged abutting each other. However, it is also possible for the clamping elements not to touch each other in the recess.

[0028] The surfaces of the clamping elements can be rounded, allowing them to slide along the functional surfaces of the actuating element. Alternatively, the clamping elements can be designed as rotationally symmetrical rolling bodies with a single axis of rotation. This allows the clamping elements to roll out of the nipple recess instead of simply sliding out, as would be the case with a rotationally asymmetrical sliding body.

[0029] The actuating element can be slidably arranged on the outer circumference of the base body. When the coupling is clamped onto the nipple, the clamping elements rest against the side of the actuating element facing the base body to ensure a positive clamping contact with the nipple.

[0030] The elongated hole can have a longitudinal extension in the axial direction, and at least one clamping element can have an axis of rotation. The thickness of the clamping element in the radial direction of the axis of rotation can be greater than the width of the clamping element in the axial direction of the axis of rotation. One or more clamping elements can be arranged circumferentially in the elongated hole of the base body.

[0031] The clamping elements inserted into such an axially oriented elongated hole can, for example, be rotationally symmetrical, with the radial dimension of a clamping element being greater than its axial dimension. The shape of such laterally narrower, and in particular laterally flattened, clamping elements allows one or more clamping elements to be arranged circumferentially within an elongated hole.

[0032] The clamping elements can be in the form of a sphere, a cylinder, a sphere with two parallel, opposing flats, a barrel roller, an ellipsoid of revolution, and / or a cylindrical or conical bolt or a prismatic body with a polygonal or non-circular cross-section and rounded circumferential edges. Advantageously, the clamping elements are designed in the form of cylinders, cylindrical rollers, or as cylindrical or conical bolts with rounded circumferential edges, which can form a line contact with the base body.

[0033] It is also possible for a clamping element to only partially exhibit the shape of one of the aforementioned forms. It is advantageous if the clamping elements have parallel, opposing surfaces. The clamping elements can then be arranged side by side, with the parallel surfaces of different clamping elements either in contact with each other or spaced apart.

[0034] At least one of the clamping elements can have a concave indentation. If several clamping elements are arranged next to each other, it is possible that part of one clamping element protrudes into the concave indentation of another clamping element.

[0035] At least one of the clamping elements can have a concave profile. Depending on the geometry of the clamping element and its concave shape, a clamping element, when coupled to the nipple, can bear against the nipple at two or more contact points in the nipple's contact area, and / or, when coupled to the nipple, bear against the actuating element at two or more contact points in the actuating element's contact area.

[0036] However, it is also possible that the geometry of the clamping body and the concave shape are designed in such a way that a clamping body forms a linear contact with the nipple.

[0037] Regardless of whether the recesses are elongated, at least one of the clamping elements can have a concave profile. In the coupled state, the clamping element can contact the nipple at two or more points within the nipple's contact area, and / or in the coupled state, the clamping element can contact the actuating element at two or more points within the actuating element's contact area. The clamping element with a concave shape can have a linear contact area with the nipple over a portion of its circumference.

[0038] It is also possible for positioning elements to be arranged in a slotted hole. These positioning elements keep the clamping elements in the slot, ensuring they remain in their designated positions. This allows, for example, the clamping elements to be guided during coupling and uncoupling, preventing unintended contact with other clamping elements. In particular, if a clamping element is damaged or lost, or if the slot is not equipped with the intended number of clamping elements for other reasons, this prevents the remaining clamping elements from moving unintentionally within the slot or from being located in undesirable positions.

[0039] As one embodiment, the positioning elements can be formed from the end face of the elongated hole and have the shape of a wedge or a triangle with straight and / or rounded legs and / or rounded corners. In particular, the shape of the positioning elements in an elongated hole can be different and / or adapted to the respective shape of the clamping elements.

[0040] Furthermore, positioning elements can extend from one end face of the elongated hole to the opposite end face. In any case, the positioning elements have a very low or limited load-bearing capacity compared to the webs. This is achieved, for example, by making the continuous positioning elements considerably narrower than the webs.

[0041] The positioning elements can also be independent bodies that are inserted into the elongated hole together with the clamping elements. This embodiment is comparable to the cage of a rolling bearing, which positions the rolling elements.

[0042] Regardless of the design of the recesses, for example as elongated holes, the stability of the webs between the recesses can be improved by altering the arrangement of the clamping elements around the circumference of the base body. The distances between the corresponding recesses are varied so that they differ in size. This increases the web width between at least two adjacent recesses in the circumferential direction of the base body compared to the web widths between the other adjacent recesses. This results in the formation of one or more webs with increased load-bearing capacity.

[0043] The load-bearing cross-section, and thus the load-bearing capacity, of the webs can be increased by radially thickening the webs towards the actuating element, regardless of the design of the recesses for the clamping elements and the arrangement of the clamping elements on the circumference of the base body. The resulting reinforcing elements extend radially along the base body, with one reinforcing element located in a corresponding recess on the side of the actuating element facing the nipple. The webs are thus reinforced by protrusions that project from the adjacent outer plane of the base body on their radial outer surface. The recesses in the actuating element can be designed either as slots or as grooves, such as concave depressions, on the inner surface of the actuating element facing the base body. This results in increased stability and load-bearing capacity of the coupling.

[0044] Additionally, the actuating element can have a support element on its outer surface facing the nipple, which prevents or reduces radial expansion of the actuating element. The support element can be circumferentially closed. It can be annular or tubular. The support element can be integral with the actuating element. However, it is also possible for the support element to be a separate part, which, for example, is pressed onto the free end of the actuating element. This can be done either as a longitudinal press fit or a transverse press fit. It is also conceivable that the support element, which bridges the recesses in the actuating element, is designed as a separate part or as several separate parts and connected to the actuating element. The connection can be friction-fit, positive-fit, and / or material-fit.

[0045] Between the recess in the base body and the end of the base body that points towards the nipple, the base body has a front wall. The front wall is held to the remaining part of the base body by the webs between the recesses. During operation, the force transmitted from the clamping elements to the undercut of the nipple also acts directly on the front wall. The front wall must therefore be dimensioned to be correspondingly robust.

[0046] Furthermore, the thickness of the front wall determines how far the coupling can be pushed onto the nipple. The front wall must be thin enough, or at most wide enough, to allow the clamping elements to make contact with the undercut of the nipple. The thickness of the front wall can, for example, range from approximately 1.1 to 1.8 mm for various clamping element designs.

[0047] Furthermore, a coupling can have a flow regulating element. This element serves to prevent the medium from splashing, leaking, oozing out, or overflowing from the coupling when it is not connected to a nipple. At high internal pressures, a supply line carrying the medium to the coupling can deform elastically, increasing its volume. After the transfer process is complete, when the coupling is disconnected from the nipple, the volume of the supply line decreases again, forcing the medium into the coupling, potentially causing it to splash out. The flow regulating element can be located at the rear end of the coupling, where the medium flows into it. However, it is also possible for the flow regulating element to be located in the middle of the coupling or in the front section where the coupling is connected to the nipple.The flow control element can be designed as a separate part or integrated into a component of the coupling.

[0048] The flow control element can be designed as a shut-off element. In this case, it can assume a closed state in which no medium can flow through the coupling, or in which no medium can flow from the rear end of the coupling forward toward the clamping elements. If the shut-off element is in a closed state before the coupling is disconnected, no medium, or only a small portion of the medium, will escape from the coupling. The shut-off element can be a manually or automatically operated valve attached to the rear end of the body. For example, it could be a standard ball valve. Alternatively, the shut-off element can be opened by an attached nipple and closed again when disconnected from the nipple.In this case, the stroke for opening and closing must be less than the distance the coupling travels when connecting and disconnecting from the nipple in order to ensure proper function.

[0049] Another embodiment of the flow regulating element can be a constriction in the area through which the medium flows. This constriction acts like a hydraulic throttle or orifice. It reduces the cross-section, thus increasing the flow velocity in this area and causing the fluid to experience greater friction. The friction dissipates energy from the medium, making it less prone to splashing out of the coupling. Such a flow regulating element can be designed as a disc or sealing disc with a central orifice that is smaller than the cross-section of the passage in the base body. In one embodiment, the diameter of the orifice is 0.3–0.9 mm.

[0050] The central passage opening or sealing disc can be flexible, allowing it to expand under the pressure of the medium. During the pressure reduction initiated when disconnecting the coupling, a flexible passage opening partially or completely contracts, thus reducing the flow of medium back into the nipple when the coupling is disconnected.

[0051] Combinations of a lockable flow control element and a friction-generating flow control element are also possible.

[0052] The coupling can also have a rotary compensation element. This element allows the coupling, or a part of it, to be rotated relative to the supply line or the other part of the coupling. The angle of rotation can be limited, for example, from a starting position of 90° (or 120° or 180°) in one direction and 90° (or 120° or 180°) in the opposite direction. Alternatively, the angle of rotation can be unlimited, allowing rotation of more than 360° in both directions. The rotation can also be performed in detented steps, for example, in 15° (or 10°, 30°, or 90°) increments.

[0053] The swivel joint has the advantage that the coupling, or part of the coupling, can be rotated without twisting the supply line. If a nipple is installed in such a way that access to the coupling is only possible with a specific rotational position, the coupling can simply be turned into the required position. For example, if the supply line has become twisted due to unwinding, the swivel joint can correct the twist without having to remove the coupling from the nipple.

[0054] In one embodiment, the supply line can be connected to the coupling at an angle, i.e., at an angle that is not 180° relative to the longitudinal extent of the coupling. If a rotation compensation element is present in this case, it can prevent the supply line from kinking and / or twisting.

[0055] Furthermore, the flow control element can be integrated into the rotary compensation element or vice versa.

[0056] For couplings, it is advantageous if they are made of a hard material or at least have a hard surface. High contact stresses between the clamping elements and the other components of the coupling can otherwise lead to damage to these components. In the contact area between the components and the clamping elements, the components preferably have a hardness of 50–65 HRC. This can be achieved through common processes for modifying material properties, such as hardening or tempering. Surface coating or the incorporation of materials into the outer surface layer, for example, through hardfacing, coating with titanium nitride using PVD or CVD processes, nitriding, or electroless nickel plating, can also be used to harden the contact area. Surface hardening offers significant advantages in terms of wear resistance, load-bearing capacity, and friction reduction.This extends the service life of the components in a friction pair, improves efficiency, and reduces the risk of damage due to deformation, wear, or fatigue. These processes also reduce sliding friction between the clamping elements and between the clamping elements and the clutch components in contact with them. Surface hardening can also be advantageously used in other friction pairs within the clutch, such as in the contact area between the hand lever and the actuating element, or in the hand lever's bearing within the base body.

[0057] A further improvement to a coupling involves providing a hand lever that makes disassembly of the coupling or individual components difficult or impossible. Unintentional disassembly of the coupling can lead to the loss or destruction of components, thus compromising optimal and safe operation. To address this, the invention proposes mounting the hand lever last during coupling assembly, thereby preventing the (non-destructive) disassembly of the other components. The hand lever is pivotally mounted to the coupling's base body by means of two pivot bearings. The hand lever also features a coupling element that connects it to an actuating element. This coupling results in the actuating element being guided by the hand lever. In this state, the actuating element can no longer be removed from the coupling.

[0058] To mount the hand lever, it is first coupled to the actuating element using the coupling element and then mounted in the pivot bearings. The pivot bearing is designed to allow not only pivoting of the hand lever but also permanent fixation of the hand lever on the pivot bearings. In one embodiment, the pivot bearing can be achieved by two pins that protrude from the base body on opposite sides and are at least partially enclosed by corresponding, open-edged recesses in the handle. Locking can be accomplished by bending tabs on the hand lever so that the recesses are closed at their open edges.

[0059] However, it is also conceivable that the pivot bearings are formed by a bolt that extends through the hand lever and at least partially through the base body. After assembly, the bolt is widened at one or both ends, similar to the head of a rivet, so that non-destructive disassembly is no longer possible. Brief description of the characters:

[0060] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1a - a coupling in a cut side view in a ready-to-couple state and a nipple in a cut side view; Fig. 1b - a coupling in a cutaway side view, which is coupled on a nipple; Fig. 2 - a basic body of a coupling in a three-dimensional view from the front and from the side; Fig. 3 - a basic body in a cutaway view from the front; Fig. 4 - another basic body in a cutaway view from the front; Fig. 5 - another basic body in a cutaway view from the front; Fig. 6 - another basic body in a cutaway view from the front; Fig. 7 - another basic body in a partially cutaway view from the front; Fig. 8 - another basic body in a partially cutaway view from the front; Fig. 9 - a clamping element in a side view; Fig. 10 - a basic body in a partially cut-away view from the front; Fig. 11 - a clamping element arranged individually and between two other clamping elements in a side view; Fig. 12 - another clamping element arranged individually in a side view, each to the left and right of another clamping element; Fig. 13 - a basic body in a three-dimensional view from the front and from the side; Fig. 14 - a basic body in a partially cut-away front view; Fig. 15 - in a cutaway view, a part of a basic body in which a clamping element is arranged; Fig. 16 - a three-dimensional view of a single clamping element arranged in a base body; Fig. 17 - a section of a basic body with an elongated hole that has positioning elements; Fig. 18 - a front part of a base body having elongated holes with through-hole positioning elements; Fig. 19a - a clamping element in the form of a cylindrical bolt with a bolt length greater than the bolt diameter or bolt cross-sectional area in a recess in the base body in a side view; Fig. 19b - a clamping element in the form of a conical bolt with rounded or chamfered bolt ends in a recess in the base body in a side view; Fig. 20 - a coupling in a cutaway side view with a flow regulating element integrated into the pipe connection. Fig. Figure 21 shows in a three-dimensional view a part of the base body with a bolt attached to the side surfaces of the base body and a section of the hand lever, which is pivotably mounted on the bolt with its tabs. Fig. 22a - the front face of the base body with reinforcing elements on the webs arranged in the recesses of the actuating element, in a three-dimensional view from the front and from the side. Fig. 22b - the front face of the base body with the reinforced webs between the recesses, shown in a three-dimensional view from the front and from the side. Fig. 23 - a basic body with reinforced webs arranged in the actuating element, in a partially cutaway view from the front; Fig. 24 - Base body and actuating element made of Fig. 23 with the support element on the actuating element in a partially cutaway view from the front; Fig. 25a - perspective view of an actuating element with the support element, wherein the support element is integrally formed with the actuating element; Fig. 25b - Perspective view of an actuating element with a separate support element. Character description:

[0061] Fig. Figure 1a shows a coupling 1 in a sectional side view and a nipple 2 in a sectional side view. The coupling 1 has a tubular base body 3 with a wall 5 that has recesses 6. Clamping elements 4 are arranged in the recesses 6. The front part of the base body 3 is located within an actuating element in the form of an actuating sleeve 7, which is slidably mounted on the base body 3 by means of a hand lever 8. In the illustrated state, the hand lever 8 is actuated, which moves the actuating element 7 rearward on the base body toward the coupling input and compresses a compression spring 9. The rearward displacement of the actuating element 7 allows the clamping elements 4 to assume a radially outward position in the recesses 6.

[0062] Inside the base body 3 is a receiving element 10, which is slidably displaceable forwards and backwards in the longitudinal direction of the base body 3. A compression spring 11, supported on the base body, exerts a spring preload on the receiving element 10 and presses the receiving element 10 against a stop 12 in a disengaged position. In this position, the receiving element 10 displaces the clamping elements 4 from a radially inner position to a disengaged, radially outer position. The clamping elements 4, supported on the receiving element 10, form a stop for the actuating element 7 in their radially outer position and prevent the actuating element 7 from moving further forward in the axial longitudinal direction of the base body 3 towards the clutch output due to the force of the compression spring 9.The base body 3 and the receiving element 10 each have a through bore extending from the front end face at the coupling output to the rear end face at the coupling input (i.e., from front to back). A seal 13 is located on the outside of the receiving element 10, sealing the bores in the base body 3 to the bore in the receiving element 10. The front end of the receiving element 10 has a seal 14, which seals the receiving element 10 to the nipple 2. The nipple 2 has a through bore extending from its front end face to its rear end face. On part of its outer surface, the nipple 2 has a mounting area with an undercut 15.

[0063] The hand lever 8 can be pivotally mounted on the base body 3 by means of a pin or bolt 26. The pin can be integrally formed with the base body 3. A pin can protrude from both diametrically opposite sides. Alternatively, the base body 3 may have a bore through which a bolt 26 is installed, projecting from both sides of the base body 3 to pivot the hand lever 8.

[0064] At the rear of the coupling 1, a line connection 27 is coupled to the base body 3. This connection has an internal thread for receiving a line connection coupling and an inlet channel leading into the through-channel of the base body 3. The inlet channel can taper in a funnel shape and have a smaller cross-section than the through-channel of the base body 3.

[0065] The line connection 27 is rotatably mounted on a locking element 28, which engages in circumferential grooves of the line connection 27 and base body 3, secured axially to the base body and yet rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the base body 3.

[0066] Between the outlet area of ​​the line connection 27, which is immersed in the base body 3, and the inner wall of the channel of the base body 3, an elastic seal 29 for sealing and a flow regulating element 30 with a central opening are arranged.

[0067] It can be seen that the flow control element 30 is connected to the base body 3 in the rear area of ​​the coupling 1, which is in an open state, so that media can flow from the rear area of ​​the flow control element 30 through the flow control element 30 and into the rear part of the base body 3.

[0068] Fig. Figure 1b shows a coupling 1 coupled to a nipple 2, each in a sectional side view. In this state, the clamping elements 4 are displaced in the recesses 6 in the wall 5 of the base body 3 into their radially inner locking position. Part of the nipple 2 is located in the bore of the base body 3, with the clamping elements 4 bearing against the nipple 2 in the area of ​​the undercut 15. The actuating element 7 is displaced forward on the base body 3. Part of the inner surface of the actuating element 7, which is held in position by the force of the compression spring 9, is located in the radially outer area of ​​the clamping elements 4 and displaces the clamping elements 4 from their radially outer position. The hand lever 8 is not actuated in this case.

[0069] While the nipple 2 is held in the bore of the base body 3 by the clamping elements 4, the receiving element 10 with its seal 14 rests against the nipple 2. The compression spring 11 generates a compressive force on the seal 14, thus ensuring a sealing effect. If a pressurized medium is present in the through-bore of the base body 3, it exerts an additional force on the seal 14 of the receiving element 10, in addition to the force exerted by the compression spring 11.

[0070] The Fig. Figures 2 to 18, as well as 19a and 19b, show advantageous embodiments of the coupling 1 with the recesses 6, 16 in the base body 3 and the clamping elements 4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j and 4k. These embodiments are characterized by having an increased number of contact points between the clamping elements 4 and the base body 3, as well as between the clamping elements 4 and the nipple 2. The webs 17 between the recesses 6, 16 in the base body 3 have a sufficiently large load-bearing cross-section.

[0071] This achieves both the desired increase in the load-bearing capacity of the coupling and the solution of other sub-problems of the invention.

[0072] Fig. Figure 2 shows the front part of the base body 3, which has a recess 6 in its wall 5 in the form of an elongated slot 16, the longitudinal extent of which runs in the circumferential direction U of the base body 3. Three clamping elements 4a are located side by side in the circumferential direction U within the elongated slot 16. The clamping elements 4a can be moved between the radially inner engaged position and the radially outer disengaged position. In the radially inner engaged position, the clamping elements 4a are held in place by the Fig. The two actuating elements 7 (not shown) are held and touch the nipple 2 (not shown) at its undercut 15. At least one further recess 6, in the form of an elongated hole 16 extending in the circumferential direction U of the base body 3, can be located on the same circular path, offset from the elongated hole 16. This at least one further elongated hole 16 can also be fitted with clamping elements 4a. The base body 3 has webs 17 between the elongated holes 16, which have a sufficiently large load-bearing cross-section.

[0073] Fig. Figure 3 shows the front view of a cut base body 3a with three recesses 6 in the form of elongated slots 16 extending circumferentially around the base body 3a. The elongated slots 16 are evenly distributed around the circumference of the base body 3a. Between the recesses 6, the base body 3a has webs 17, which are spaced according to the circumferential distribution of the elongated slots 16. Three clamping elements 4a are located in each of the elongated slots 16 in their radially inner locking position. Each clamping element 4a is in contact with the undercut 15 of the nipple 2.

[0074] Fig. Figure 4 shows the front view of a cut base body 3b, which has four recesses 6 in the form of an elongated hole 16 evenly distributed along a common circular path in its circumferential direction, the longitudinal extent of which runs in the circumferential direction of the base body 3b. The webs 17 of the base body 3b are located between the recesses 6. Two clamping elements 4a are located in each of the elongated holes 16 in their radially inner snap-in position. The clamping elements 4a are in contact with the undercut 15 of the nipple 2.

[0075] Fig. Figure 5 shows the front view of a sectioned base body 3c, the wall 5 of which has four recesses 6 in the form of elongated slots 16 extending circumferentially around the base body 3c on a common circular path. Each elongated slot 16 contains three clamping elements 4a, 4b. The clamping elements 4b have two opposing, parallel flats 18. Due to the flats 18, the clamping elements 4b are narrower than the clamping elements 4a, allowing two clamping elements 4b and one clamping element 4a to fit side by side in one elongated slot 16.

[0076] It can be seen that the clamping elements 4a and 4b, each arranged in an elongated hole 16, have different contours. The middle clamping element 4a is spherical, while the adjacent outer clamping elements 4b are disc-shaped with flattened sides.

[0077] Fig. Figure 6 shows the front view of a cut basic body 3d with four elongated holes 16 in the circumferential direction, wherein two opposite elongated holes 16a extend so far that three clamping elements 4b can be placed side by side in them and two opposite elongated holes 16b extend so far that four clamping elements 4b can be placed side by side.

[0078] The clamping elements 4b arranged in an elongated hole 16 can have the same contour as shown and be narrower than spheres due to flattened sides, i.e., disc-shaped. This allows a larger number of clamping elements 4b to be accommodated in an elongated hole 16, thereby increasing the number of contact points and distributing the load across a larger number of contact points. This reduces the contact stresses at each contact point.

[0079] Fig. Figure 7 shows the front view of a partially sectioned base body 3e, which exemplarily has six recesses 6 in the form of elongated holes 16 extending axially along the base body 3e. Due to the axial extension of the elongated holes, two adjacent webs 17 each have a long end face 25 that runs parallel to each other. A clamping element 4c is located in each of the elongated holes 16. The clamping element 4c has two opposing, parallel flats 18 as well as an outer 19a and an inner indentation 19b. The areas between the flats 18 and the outer and inner indentations 19a, 19b are convexly rounded.

[0080] As a variation of the variant in the Fig. 7. It is conceivable that the elongated holes 16 extend in the circumferential direction.

[0081] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 7 the actuating element 7, which is arranged around the base body 3e, and the area of ​​the undercut 15 of the nipple 2, which is arranged inside the base body 3e. Between the actuating element 7 and a clamping element 4c, two contact points 20a are formed by the indentations 19a. Between the area of ​​the undercut 15 of the nipple 2 and the clamping elements 4c, two contact points 20b are formed by the indentations 19b.

[0082] Fig. Figure 8 shows a front view of a partially cut base body 3f with an elongated hole 16 in the axial direction of the base body 3f. The elongated hole 16 represents further elongated holes 16 distributed circumferentially. A clamping element 4d is located in each of the elongated holes 16, representing further clamping elements 4d. Each clamping element 4d has two opposing, parallel flats 18 and is rotationally symmetrical about an axis of rotation 22. The axis of rotation 22 is perpendicular to the flats 18. Circumferentially around the axis of rotation 22, each clamping element 4d has a rounded, concave indentation 19 with a radius of curvature that transitions into a convex curve in the direction of the flats 18.

[0083] The concave indentation 19a and the convex curves create two contact points 20a between the clamping elements 4d and the actuating element 7. Corresponding to the radius of curvature of the nipple 2 and the curvature of the concave indentation 19b, the following occurs between the clamping element 4d and the nipple 2: - a point-like contact 20b if the radius of curvature of the concave indentation 19b is greater than the radius of curvature of the nipple 2, - a linear contact area 21b if the radius of curvature of the concave indentation 19b and the nipple 2 are equal or approximately equal, or - two contact points 20b if the radius of curvature of the concave indentation 19 is smaller than the radius of curvature of the nipple 2.

[0084] Fig. Figure 9 shows the clamping element 4d. Fig. 8. The clamping element 4d has two opposing, parallel flats 18, through each of which a rotation axis 22 runs perpendicularly. The clamping element 4d is rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis 22 and has a rounded, concave indentation 19 on its circumference with a radius of curvature that transitions into a concave curve towards the flats 18. For one embodiment of the clamping element 4d, the course of the flats of the concave and convex curves is symmetrical about a mirror axis 23 that runs perpendicular to the rotation axis 22.

[0085] As a variation of the in Fig. In the variant shown in 9, it is conceivable that the clamping elements 4d, 4da have concave or convex end faces instead of the flattened end faces 18.

[0086] Fig. Figure 10 shows an elongated hole in the wall 5 of a base body 3g, representing further elongated holes (not shown) distributed around the circumference of the base body 3g and separated from each other by webs 17 of the base body 3g. Three clamping elements 4a and 4e are located in the elongated hole 16 shown as a representation. Clamping element 4e is rotationally symmetrical and has an axis of rotation 22. Clamping element 4e has two opposing (concave) indentations 24 perpendicular to the axis of rotation 22, each in the form of a spherical cap. The radius of the spherical cap indentation 24 is larger than the radius of the clamping elements 4a. This allows the spherical clamping elements 4a and 4e to rest on the curved circumference of the nipple 2 in the radially inner engagement position.

[0087] Fig. Figure 11 shows a clamping element 4e with a rotation axis 22 and two indentations 24, as it appears in a similar form in Fig. 10. Application is found. Furthermore, it shows Fig. 11, how a clamping element 4e can be arranged between two clamping elements 4a. Here, the radius of curvature of the indentations 24 corresponds exactly or approximately to the radius of the clamping elements 4a.

[0088] Fig. Figure 12 shows a rotationally symmetrical clamping element 4f with an axis of rotation 22 and a recess 24 perpendicular to the axis of rotation 22. Furthermore, Figure 12 shows a rotationally symmetrical clamping element 4f with an axis of rotation 22 and a recess 24 perpendicular to the axis of rotation 22. Fig. 12, how two crescent-shaped clamping elements 4f, each with concave indentations 24 on the side, can be arranged on one side of a clamping element 4a.

[0089] Fig. Figure 13 shows a base body 3h with a wall 5 into which recesses 6 in the form of elongated holes 16 are formed. The elongated holes 16 extend in the axial direction L of the base body 3h and are evenly distributed around the circumference of the base body 3h. Between each of the elongated holes 16, there is a web 17 in the wall 5 of the base body 3h.

[0090] Fig. Figure 14 shows a front view of a cut basic body 3h from Fig. 13, which has 5 recesses 6 in its wall in the form of elongated holes 16 extending in the axial direction of the base body 3. In each elongated hole is a clamping element 4g, which has two opposing, parallel flats 18 extending parallel to long end faces 25 of the elongated hole 16.

[0091] Fig. Figure 15 shows a sectional longitudinal view of a portion of a base body 3 with an elongated hole 16 extending axially along the base body 3. A rotationally symmetrical clamping element 4h with an axis of rotation 22 is located in the elongated hole 16. This clamping element has two opposing, parallel flats 18, although only one flat 18 is shown in this view. The long end faces 25 of the elongated hole 16 run parallel to the flats 18, although one end face 25 is not visible in the section.

[0092] Fig. Figure 16 shows a rotationally symmetrical clamping element 4i, which has the shape of a sphere with an axis of rotation 22 and two opposing, parallel flattened surfaces 18. Furthermore, Figure 16 shows a rotationally symmetrical clamping element 4i, which has the shape of a sphere with an axis of rotation 22 and two opposing, parallel flattened surfaces 18. Fig. 16, how the clamping element 4i is arranged in an elongated hole 16 in the cutout of a wall 5 of a base body 3. The flattened surfaces 18 run parallel to the long end faces 25 of the elongated hole 16. Above the clamping element 4, a cutout of an actuating element 7 can be seen. The clamping element 4 is in contact with the undercut 15 of a cutout of a nipple 2.

[0093] Fig. Figure 17 shows a section of a base body 3i, which has an elongated slot 16 in its wall 5. Four positioning elements 31 are located in the elongated slot 16, each extending from opposite long end faces 25 of the elongated slot 16. The positioning elements 31 have the shape of a wedge with rounded corners and prevent clamping elements 4 (not shown) from being displaced in the longitudinal direction of the elongated slot 16.

[0094] Fig. Figure 18 shows the front part of a base body 3j, which has two elongated holes 16 in its wall 5, the longitudinal extent of which runs in the circumferential direction U of the base body 3j. Two positioning elements 31 are located side by side in the circumferential direction U of the elongated hole 16, each extending from one long end face 25 to the opposite long end face 25 of the elongated hole 16. The positioning elements 31 each have the form of two wedges that touch or are connected at their tips. The positioning elements 31 prevent clamping elements 4 (not shown) from touching each other and / or being displaced in the circumferential direction U of the elongated hole 16. The minimum width P of a positioning element 31 is considerably smaller than the web width S of the web 17.

[0095] The thickness of the front wall 32 determines how far the coupling 1 is pushed onto the nipple 2. To ensure sufficient stability of the front wall 32 and at the same time enable secure coupling of the coupling 1 onto a standard-compliant nipple 2, the thickness of the front wall 32 can preferably be between 1.1 and 1.80 mm, depending on the design of the clamping elements.

[0096] Fig. Figure 19a shows a clamping element 4j in the form of a cylindrical bolt whose length is greater than its diameter or cross-sectional dimension. The clamping element 4j is arranged in a recess 6 of the base body 3 and is in contact with the undercut 15 of a cutout of the nipple 2. One clamping element 4j is shown to represent further clamping elements 4j and / or other clamping elements 4 (not shown) in the respective recesses 6 along the circumference of the base body 3.

[0097] Fig. Figure 19b shows a clamping element 4k in the form of a conical bolt or cone with rounded or chamfered bolt ends. The clamping element 4k is arranged in a recess 6 of the base body 3 and is in contact with the undercut 15 of a cutout of the nipple 2. One clamping element 4k is shown to represent further clamping elements 4k and / or other clamping elements 4 (not shown) in the respective recesses 6 along the circumference of the base body 3.

[0098] As a variation of the one in the Fig. 19a and Fig. In the variants shown in 19b, it is conceivable that the clamping elements 4j and 4k have a non-circular cross-section.

[0099] Fig. Figure 20 shows an exemplary coupling in the disconnected state in a cut side view, wherein a flow regulating element 30 in the form of a central bore regulating the flow is shown in the line connection 27.

[0100] Fig. Figure 21 shows a three-dimensional view of a portion of the base body 3 with a pin or bolt 26 attached to the side surfaces of the base body 3, which is designed to receive the hand lever 8. The hand lever is pivotally mounted on the pin or bolt 26 by its tabs 8. The tabs of the hand lever 8 enclose the pin or bolt 26 from both sides, so that non-destructive disassembly is no longer possible. The pin 8 can be integrally formed with the base body 3 and protrude from both diametrically opposite sides. Alternatively, the base body 3 may have a bore through which a bolt 26 is installed, protruding from both sides of the base body 3 to pivotally mount the hand lever 8.

[0101] The hand lever (8) has a coupling element (33) that is coupled to the actuating element (7) to cause a linear displacement of the actuating element (7) when the hand lever (8) is pivoted. Since the hand lever (8) limits the movement of the actuating element (7) along the base body (3), once the tabs of the hand lever (8) have engaged in the base body (3), it is no longer possible to move the actuating element (7) into a position where the clamping elements can be removed from the base body (3) or fall out. This ensures that the clamping elements are securely and captively arranged in the coupling.

[0102] Fig. Figure 22a shows the end face of the base body 3, with the reinforcing elements 34 on the webs 17, which are arranged in the recesses 35 of the actuating element 7, in a three-dimensional view from the front and from the side. This increases the load-bearing cross-section and the load-bearing capacity of the webs. It can be seen that the reinforcing elements 34 are designed as a projection extending from the outside of the base body 3, i.e., as a bead extending radially outwards and in the longitudinal direction of the respective web 17. The reinforcing elements 34 are integrally formed with the webs 17. The recesses 35 in the actuating element 7 can, for example, be designed as slots in the actuating element 7 or as concave depressions on the inside of the actuating element 7 facing the base body 3.

[0103] Fig. Figure 22b shows the front face of a basic body 3 with webs 17, which are provided with reinforcing elements 34 between the recesses 6, 16, shown in a three-dimensional oblique view from the front looking at the front and the side.

[0104] Fig. Figure 23 shows the front view of a partially cut base body 3, which has, by way of example, eight recesses 6 with the clamping elements 4, 4a. These are in contact with the nipple 2 and the actuating element 7. The reinforcing elements 34 on the webs 17 extend in the radial direction of the base body 3 and are arranged in the recesses 35 of the actuating element 7.

[0105] Fig. Figure 24 shows the front view of a partially cut base body 3 and actuating element 7. Fig. 23, wherein a support element 36 bridges the groove-shaped recesses 35 of the actuating element 7. The support element 36 can also be formed integrally with the actuating element 7. For this purpose, for example, the recesses 35 can be formed as grooves from the inside of the actuating element 7 into the inner wall. The groove bases bridge the recesses 35 and form the circumferential support element 36.

[0106] Fig. Figure 25a shows a perspective view of an actuating element 7 with a one-piece support element 36. It can be seen that the recesses 35 are provided as grooves in the actuating element 7, so that the groove base of the groove forms a section of the support element 36 bridging the recess 35.

[0107] Fig.Figure 25b shows a perspective view of an actuating element 7 with a separate support element 36. This can, for example, be shrunk onto the circumference of the actuating element 7 and thus connected by friction.

[0108] The actuating element 7 can optionally have a smaller outer diameter in the area of ​​the separate support element 36. The support element 36 can have approximately the same outer diameter as the remaining part of the actuating element 7. Reference symbol list 1 clutch 2 nipples 3 basic shapes 4 clamping elements 5 wall 6 Exclusion 7 Actuating element 8 hand levers 9 compression spring 10 Recording element 11 Compression spring 12 stops 13 Seal 14 Seal 15 Undercut at the nipple 16 elongated holes 17 Bridge 18 Flattening 19 indentation 20a / b Contact point 21 a / b contact line 22 Rotation axis 23 Mirror axis 24 indentations 25 Front surface 26 bolts 27 Line connection 28 locking element 29 Seal 30 Flow regulating element 31 Positioning element 32 Front wall 33 Coupling element 34 Reinforcing element 35 Recess in the actuating element 36 support element L axial direction U circumferential direction P Width of the positioning element S bridge width QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] GB 197436 A

[0006] GB 574 983 A

[0007] GB 677 164 A

[0007] WO 2013 177 696 A1

[0008] US 2018 0313 495 A1

[0008] US 2019 0120 413 A1

[0009] EP 2 531 766 B1

[0010] EP 3 293 436 B1

[0010] EP 3 559 539 B1

[0010] EP 3 388 726 B1

[0010]

Claims

[1] Coupling (1) for coupling to a nipple (2) with - a tubular base body (3) with a wall (5) which has recesses (6), - clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) which are arranged in the recesses (6) and are designed for positive coupling of the base body (3) to the nipple (2), and - an actuating element (7), wherein the coupling (1) is designed for the transmission of media through the coupling (1) and through the nipple (2) and wherein the clamping element (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) in the state of the coupling (1) coupled to the nipple (2) bears in a contact area (21a) on the actuating element (7) and in a contact area (21b) on the nipple (2), characterized by , that the recesses (6) of the base body (3) in which the clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) are arranged, each are formed as an elongated hole (16) with a longitudinal extent in the axial direction (L) and / or in the circumferential direction (U) of the tubular base body (3). [2] Coupling (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the elongated hole (16) has a longitudinal extension in the circumferential direction (U) of the base body (3) and one or more clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) are arranged side by side in a common elongated hole (16) in the circumferential direction (U) of the base body (3). [3] Coupling (1) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the elongated hole (16) has a longitudinal extent in the axial direction (L) of the base body (3) and the thickness of at least one clamping element (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) in the axial direction (L) of the base body (3) is greater than the width of the clamping element (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) in the circumferential direction (U) of the base body (3), and wherein one or more clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) in the circumferential direction (U) of the base body (3) in the elongated hole (16) are arranged. [4] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) have one or more of the following shapes: - Bullet, - Cylinder or cylinder roller, - Sphere with two parallel, opposite flattens, - Barrel roller, - ellipsoid of revolution, - Cylindrical or conical bolt or prismatic body with a polygonal or non-circular cross-section, the circumferential edges of which may be rounded. [5] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one of the clamping elements (4, 4e, 4f) has a concave indentation (24) perpendicular to an axis of rotation (22), wherein an adjacent clamping element (4, 4a) can project into the concave indentation (24). [6] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one of the clamping elements (4, 4c, 4d, 4da) has a concave indentation (19) and / or two opposing convex bulges, in particular in the form of a cylinder or a truncated cone with rounded circumferential edges. [7] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that at least one of the clamping elements (4, 4c, 4d, 4da) is in the state coupled to the nipple (2) a) has a contact area with two or more contact points (20a, 20b) with the nipple (2) and / or the actuating element (7) over a partial circumference of the actuating element (7) and / or b) has a contact area in the form of a contact line (21a, 21b) with the nipple (2) and / or the actuating element (7) over a partial circumference of the actuating element (7). [8] Coupling (1) for coupling to a nipple (2) with a tubular base body (3) having a wall (5) having recesses (6), clamping elements (4, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) arranged in the recesses (6) and designed for positive coupling of the base body (3) to the nipple (2), and an actuating element (7), wherein the coupling (1) is designed for transmitting media through the coupling (1) and through the nipple (2), and wherein the clamping element (4, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) in the coupling state of the coupling (1) to the nipple (2) is in a contact area (21a) on the actuating element (7) and in a contact area (21b) on the nipple (2), characterized by , that a) the clamping elements (4, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) form the shape - of a cylinder or cylindrical roller and / or, - a sphere with two parallel, opposite flattenings and / or, - a barrel roller and / or - of a rotational ellipsoid and / or - of a cylindrical or conical bolt or a prismatic body with a polygonal or non-circular cross-section and with rounded circumferential edges, and / or b) at least one of the clamping elements has a concave indentation (19, 24) or has two opposing convex bulges, in particular in the form of a cylinder or truncated cone with rounded circumferential edges. [9] Coupling (1) according to claim 8, characterized by , that at least one of the clamping elements (4, 4c, 4d, 4da) a) has a contact area with two or more contact points (20a, 20b) with the nipple (2) and / or the actuating element (7) over a partial circumference of the actuating element (7) and / or b) has a contact area in the form of a contact line (21a, 21b) with the nipple (2) and / or the actuating element (7) over a partial circumference of the actuating element (7). [10] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the recess (6, 16) has a positioning element (31), wherein the positioning element (31) a) is inserted into the elongated hole (16) as an independent component or b) is integrally connected to the base body (3) and extends into the elongated hole (16) from a side surface or the long end face (25) of the elongated hole (16) or c) extends to the opposite long end face (25), in this case the positioning element (31) is significantly narrower than the web (17). [11] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a) the width of the webs (17) between at least two adjacent recesses (6) is greater than the web widths between the other adjacent recesses, and / or b) at least one section of the base body (3) in the area between the adjacent recesses (6) on the side of the base body (3) facing the nipple (2) has a reinforcing element (34) which extends outwards in the radial direction of the base body (3) and is arranged in a corresponding recess (35) of the actuating element (7). [12] Coupling (1) for coupling to a nipple (2) with a tubular base body (3) having a wall (5) having recesses (6), clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) arranged in the recesses (6) and designed for positive coupling of the base body (3) to the nipple (2), and an actuating element (7), wherein the coupling (1) is designed for transmitting media through the coupling (1) and through the nipple (2), and wherein the clamping element (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) is in a contact area in the coupling state of the coupling (1) to the nipple (2). (21a) on the actuating element (7) and in a contact area (21b) on the nipple (2), characterized by , that a) the width of the webs (17) between at least two adjacent recesses (6) is greater than the web widths between the other adjacent recesses, and / or b) at least one section of the base body (3) in the area between the adjacent recesses (6) on the side of the base body (3) facing the nipple (2) has a reinforcing element (34) which extends outwards in the radial direction of the base body (3) and is arranged in a corresponding recess (35) of the actuating element (7). [13] Coupling according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the base body (3) and / or the actuating element (7) each has a support element (36) on the outer side facing the nipple (2) which prevents or reduces radial expansion of the actuating element (7). [14] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that between the recess (6, 16) of the base body (3) and the front end face of the base body (3), which points towards the nipple (2), there is a front wall (32) whose thickness is between 1.1 and 1.8 mm. [15] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k), the base body (3), and / or the actuating element (7) in the respective contact area with the clamping elements (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4da, 4e, 4f, 4g, 4h, 4i, 4j, 4k) have a hardness of 50-65 HRC. [16] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the base body (3) has a line connection (27) at its inlet end diametrically opposite the outlet end with the clamping elements (4), which is rotatably arranged on the base body (3) by means of a rotation compensation element. [17] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the coupling (1) has a flow regulating element (30) designed to prevent or reduce the splashing, leaking, overflowing or spilling of the medium from the coupling (1), in particular the outflow of the medium from the outlet end of the base body (3) provided with clamping elements (4) when the coupling (1) is disconnected from the nipple (2), wherein the flow regulating element is designed either as a separate part or integrated into a component of the coupling (1). [18] Coupling (1) according to claim 17, characterized by , that the flow regulating element (30) is designed as a constriction in the area of ​​the coupling (1) through which the medium flows and is designed either as a hydraulic throttle or hydraulic orifice, wherein the diameter of the constriction forming the passage opening is between 0.3 mm and 0.9 mm. [19] Coupling (1) according to claim 17 or claim 18, characterized by, that the flow regulating element (30) is designed as a flexible sealing disc with a central passage opening whose diameter is variable. [20] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the coupling (1) has a closing element which, when closed, completely or partially prevents the flow of a medium or prevents the flow from the rear to the front side in the direction of the clamping elements, wherein the closing element: a) can be opened and closed manually and / or b) is automatically opened by coupling a nipple (2) and closed again by uncoupling from the nipple (2). [21] Coupling (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a hand lever (8) is pivotably mounted on the base body (3) by means of two pivot bearings relative to the base body (3), wherein the hand lever (8) has a coupling element (33) which is coupled to the actuating element (7) in order to cause a linear displacement of the actuating element (7) when the hand lever (8) is pivoted, wherein the hand lever (8) is provided with tabs which adjoin the pins or bolts (26) of the pivot bearings and are locked to the coupling (1) in such a way that the hand lever (8) is pivotable but not removable from the coupling (1).

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